Culture, Tea, Wildlife & Backwaters: Best of Kerala - 12 Night / 13 Days
Experience the dynamic contrasts of India with an unforgettable journey from Tea Plantations in Munnar, Wildlife in Thekkady (Periyar), Culture in Cochin and many more. The Classic Kerala Tour is one of the most enchanting and well-rounded ways to explore "God’s Own Country." It typically blends culture, nature, and relaxation, taking travelers through some of the most iconic destinations in the state.
Overview
Tour highlights
- Marvel at cantilevered Chinese fishing nets.
- Take a cruise on a traditional rice barge.
- Walk through tea plantations.
- Explore a spice plantation.
- Relax on a palm-fringed beach.
Price includes:
- Scheduled international flights
- Private driver throughout your trip
- Activities and excursions as detailed
- All accommodation
- 24-hour support while you travel
Price Excludes:
- Entrance fees at the monuments/ temples
- Meals not mentioned inclusions
- Expenses of personal nature
- Any kind of insurance
- Any increase in the govt. taxes and state taxes
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1
International outbound flight
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Cochin.
Day 2
Cochin
On arrival at Cochin Airport, you're met by an Audley representative and introduced to your private driver who will stay with you for the rest of your stay. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, depending on the arrival time of your flight. Stroll along the waterfront to see fishermen working the Chinese fishing nets, or just relax at your hotel.
Cochin: Stay at Old Harbour Hotel
Day 3
Cochin
Enjoy a private tour of colonial Cochin today with your local guide. The tour usually lasts for around half a day and includes St Francis' Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica. Your guide can tailor the tour to suit your interests. This evening you will be welcomed to a family home to learn some secrets of mouth-watering Keralan recipes. You can then enjoy the fruits of your labour with your friendly hosts.
Cochin: Stay at Old Harbour Hotel
Day 4
Kodikulam
This morning, drive for around three hours into rural Kerala to stay at a traditional homestay. The property is warm and welcoming, surrounded by beautiful spice gardens and a wonderful flowing river at the bottom of the garden, where you can even have a swim.
Cochin: Stay at Dewalokam Homestay
Day 5
Kodikulam
Spend today at your leisure. There are plenty of activities to choose from, just have a chat with Jose and Sinta, your hosts. Enjoy a spice plantation walk, cycle around the nearby village, visit a local temple, learn about honey extraction and even try milking a cow.
Stay at Dewalokam Homestay
Day 6
Munnar
This morning head up to the Western Ghats; a three-hour drive to the town of Munnar. Look out for some wonderful waterfalls on your way to the tea country. Relax on arrival and take in the beautiful views, go birdwatching or on a butterfly walk. Your hotel can arrange activities if you wish.
Munnar: Stay at Windermere Estate
Day 7
Munnar
Spend the morning trekking through the beautiful hills surrounding Munnar. Your private trek is with a local, experienced guide. If you find the trek too strenuous, ask your guide to take it at a slower pace and shorten it if need be.
Munnar: Stay at Windermere Estate
Day 8
Thekkady & Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
This morning, drive the four-hour journey to Periyar National Park. In the afternoon you will travel on a 4x4 tour to discover the villages and to visit a family spice farm at Kumily.
Munnar Thekkady & Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Stay at Spice Village
Day 9
On board ship (Alleppey)
The morning will be at leisure. After brunch, travel for around three to four hours to the Keralan Backwaters. Board your traditional private rice barge and spend your afternoon and evening relaxing as you float around the waterways.
Thekkady & Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
On board ship, Keralan Houseboats (Rice barges)
Day 10
Mararikulam
Wake up on your houseboat and enjoy breakfast before disembarking. Your driver is on hand to meet you and take you to Marari Beach.
Mararikulam: Stay at Marari Beach Resort
Day 11
Mararikulam
Take a stroll along the beach or relax under a palm tree with a book.
Mararikulam: Stay at Marari Beach Resort
Day 12
Mararikulam
Full day at leisure. You might like to try an Ayurvedic massage or hire a bicycle to explore the quiet surrounding lanes.
Mararikulam: Stay at Marari Beach Resort
Day 13
International return flight
Your driver will take you back to Cochin for your onward flight. The drive takes around 90 minutes so will be arranged depending on your flight time. Your return flight will arrive the same day.
Inclusions/Exclusions/Cancellation
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