Magical Kerala

Cochin – Munnar – Periyar – Kumarakom – Kumarakom Houseboat – Marari – Cochin

Duration: 11 Days and 10 Nights

From blue skies to blue waters, Kerala is full of magic. This route takes you through misty hills, the quiet backwaters, exotic woods, gently-rocking houseboats. Discover Kathakali, one of the oldest forms of theater in the world, enjoy the sight of rare animals and familiarize yourself with historic sites. Let the fine sand on the beach trickle through your toes and enjoy the unique cuisine of Kerala.

Detailed travel description: (B = Breakfast / L = Lunch / D = Dinner)

Day 01: Arrival In Cochin (-/-/-)

On arrival at Cochin airport you will be met by our representative and taken to the hotel. The rest of the day is free. Enjoy this vibrant city on
the Malabar coast in the breathtakingly beautiful and prosperous state of Kerala.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Cochin (B/-/-)

After a relaxed breakfast, embark on a sight-seeing tour. First, note the Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi, which are in use here only, outside of China. It is believed that traders from the court of Chinese ruler Kublai Khan, presented these nets here. Many fishermen earn their livelihood by fishing using these massive nets. Enjoy this special sight in the morning light.

The journey takes you next to the impressive Church of St. Francis. This is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. The Portuguese Vasco da Gama was buried at St. Francis Church. Later his remains were taken back to Portugal. Nevertheless, his tomb in the church is clearly labeled.

Next, visit the Jewish Synagogue, with its interesting Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers; then explore the Jewish Quarter in Mattancherry. In the evening, let yourself be enchanted by a Kathakali performance. Kathakali is a unique combination of literature, music, painting, drama and dance, and one of the oldest forms of theater in the world.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Cochin - Munnar (B/-/-)

After breakfast we go into the green hills, to Munnar. Enjoy the journey forward to the beautiful verdant landscape, and look forward to a cool green paradise full of tea plantations.

On arrival, check in at the resort.

Day 04: Munnar (B/-/-)

After breakfast, explore Munnar and Mattupetty dam and lake. Then go on to Rajamala, high up in the mountains. It is home to the mountain goat, “Nilgiri Tahr.” Enjoy the sight of these rare animals, of whose half the population lives here. The Eravikulam National Park is an ideal place to get acquainted with the biodiversity in this region. Experience unspoiled nature up-close. The National Park is closed at the time of calving of the Nilgiri Tahr, usually the first few months of each year.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Munnar - Periyar (B/-/-)

On this day, the journey leads you into the nature reserve of Periyar. Upon arrival in Periyar, check in at the resort. Large quantities of spices such as pepper, cardamom, etc. are grown here. You can also visit the 120-year-old “Surki” dam across the Peryiar.

Thekkady is home to the famous Tiger Reserve.Observe wildlife at a leisurely boat ride on Lake Periyar.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 06: Periyar - Kumarakom (B/-/-)

A wonderful place awaits you – the village of Kumarakom hidden in the backwaters. Nestled under palm trees on the eastern shore of Lake Vembanad, Kumarakom lies at the mouth of the River Kavanar. Enjoy this wonderful place and catch a glimpse of authentic village life.

On arrival check in at the resort. In the afternoon, you can proceed to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a gateway into the world of birds. Enjoy a walk among colonies of egrets and night herons and be inspired by the beautiful colors of a kingfisher.

Overnight at the resort.

Day 07: Kumarakom - Kumarakom Houseboat (B/L/D)

A cozy house on the water, the houseboat is waiting for you today. Clock at 12.30 to go aboard, and off you go! A trip on a houseboat is a great way to register the fascinating beauty of backwaters. Take a look at rice fields and fish, if you like.

The houseboats have fully furnished single and double rooms with sundeck, comfortable chairs, kitchen and toilet. As atmospheric lights, traditional lanterns are used. The crew consists of a cook and two rowers. Relish the traditional cuisine of Kerala, while you cruise along the Vembanadu backwaters.