Our Enchanting Kerala tour takes in some of the bespoke highlights of this stunning region. This tropical state in southern India is a wondrous land of serene backwaters and coconut palm lined beaches. Further inland the coastal plains rise to meet the Western Ghats whose vast fertile slopes grow a dizzying array of spices, cashews, tea and coffee. The beautiful National Parks are home to elephants, various primates and the elusive tiger. Kerala’s 600km of stunning coastline supports a lively fishing industry making seafood an important part of the local cuisine.
Known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, Kochi is a relatively small heritage city known for its iconic Chinese fishing nets, colonial backstreets, interesting architecture, thriving art forms and bespoke cafes and galleries. Originally this port city was an important spice trade post and was the first point of European colonisation in India. Firstly occupied by the Portuguese and then closely followed by both the Dutch the British, Kochi abounds with fascinating European architecture including lavishly designed Christian churches. In recent years the city has modernised, making it easier than ever to travel to as it enjoys many of the conveniences of India’s other modern cities. But unlike India’s mega cities, Kochi has held on to the elegant charm that it is so well known for. As befittingly described by TripAdvisor, Kochi is a unique, chilled out destination where travellers can enjoy ‘sunset strolls, sampling fresh fish from seaside vendors and boat rides through the islands just offshore.’
Come with us on this amazing journey to South India as we discover all that this magical place has to offer.
TOUR DATES |
18-27 Nov 2023, 16-25 Dec 2023, 13-22 Jan 2024, 17-26 Feb 2024, 13-22 Oct 2024, 17-26 Nov 2024, 15-24 Dec 2024 |
TOUR COST |
A$3190 per person, twin share A$1300 single supplement * price based on minimum 2 people |
DURATION |
10 days, 9 nights,
Kochi add-on: 3 days, 2 nights |
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
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TOUR ROUTE
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Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady& Periyar National Park – Alleppey Backwaters – Kochi |
Arrive Kochi
Overnight: Hotel, Kochi
Explore Kochi
We will then visit Mattancherry, the old bazaar district and home to the famous spice warehouses. We will also visit Mattancherry Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese in 1555. We will then explore Jew Town, home to an interesting synagogue as well as antique and curio shops. The area is also home to many heritage restaurants and cafés with excellent street views when it is time for a break.
In the afternoon relax and enjoy your bonus Ayurvedic massage. Ayurveda is a holistic form of medicine established over 3000 years ago in India and is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of exploring. In the evening don’t miss the opportunity to catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance.
Overnight: Hotel, Kochi
Kochi - Munnar
In the afternoon we will take a drive up to the Top Station (1880m) for picturesque views of the Western Ghats and out across to the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. There is a good chance we might see wild elephants wandering through the lush hills and jungles on our way. We will also check out Mattupetty Dam.
Overnight: Hotel, Munnar
Explore Munnar
Overnight: Hotel, Munnar
Munnar - Thekkady
The afternoon is at your leisure to relax or wander the village and explore the local markets. You may also wish to enjoy an optional extra such as a guided hike or safari in the national park, a therapeutic Ayurvedic treatment or a traditional South Indian cooking class.
Overnight: Hotel, Thekkady
Thekkady & Periyar National Park
In the afternoon we will take a wildlife cruise on Periyar Lake. This is a great opportunity for wildlife spotting, especially for deer, boar, otters and the many varieties of birdlife.
Overnight: Hotel, Thekkady
Thekkady - Alleppey Backwaters
Overnight: Houseboat, Alleppey Backwaters
Alleppey Home stay
Overnight: Homestay, Chennamkary (Alleppey Backwaters)
Alleppey - Kochi
Overnight: Hotel, Kochi
Departure
Optional 3- day add-on in Kochi
Kochi (Vypeen Island & Local Experiences)
In the afternoon we will return to Fort Cochin by ferry. The afternoon is yours to try out a unique local experience (optional extra). Choose from a Kathakali dance lesson, a cooking class at a local’s home, an Ayurvedic spa treatment, a guided bike tour or a sunset boat cruise.
Overnight: Hotel, Kochi
Explore Kochi
Whilst we are in Ernakulam, we will also visit the bustling Broadway Bazaar markets, where it is possible to find just about anything you could ever want. Enjoy a walk along Marine Drive promenade before catching a ferry back to Fort Cochin.
Enjoy your last night in Kochi by taking a final promenade from Mahatma Gandhi Beach to the fish markets.
Overnight: Hotel, Kochi
Departure
INCLUDES
Met at airport by an Ekno representative
Services of an English-speaking guide for the duration of the tour
7 nights’ accommodation in hotel with breakfast
1 night on a luxury houseboat with lunch, dinner and breakfast
1-night homestay accommodation with lunch, dinner and breakfast
Private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary
Entrance fees to all sights and monuments as per the itinerary
Activities as mentioned in the itinerary
EXCLUDES
Return airfares to India
Indian Tourist Visa
Compulsory insurance of any kind
Lunches and dinners unless otherwise specified in the itinerary
Personal expenditure such as drinks (including bottled water), laundry service and souvenirs
Tipping
Camera and video entry charges at local sights and monuments
Occasional optional items not identified in the itinerary description
Optional extras as mentioned in the itinerary (see below)
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- 1-day trek in Munnar
- Half day trek and boat ride in Thekkady
- Ayurveda treatment, Thekkady
- Cooking class, Thekkady
- Guided walk, Chennamkary
- Bike or canoe hire, Chennamkary
- Cooking class, Chennamkary
KOCHI ADD-ON
INCLUDES
Services of an English-speaking guide for the duration of the add-on
2 nights’ accommodation in hotel with breakfast
Private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary
Entrance fees to all sights and monuments as per the itinerary
Activities as mentioned in the itinerary
EXCLUDES
Return airfares to India
Indian Tourist Visa
Compulsory insurance of any kind
Lunches and dinners unless otherwise specified in the itinerary
Personal expenditure such as drinks (including bottled water), laundry service and souvenirs
Tipping
Camera and video entry charges at local sights and monuments
Occasional optional items not identified in the itinerary description
Optional extras as mentioned in the itinerary (see below)
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Ayurveda treatment
- Cooking class
- Kathakali dance lesson
- Bike tour
- Sunset Cruise