INDIA – The Magical Kerala Tour

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Today, go for the Kochi sightseeing tour that begins with a visit to Fort Kochi located on the western coast of India amidst the pristine waters of the Arabian Sea. On visiting this fort, soak in the mesmerizing specimens of the bygone era. The architecture of this gorgeous fort uncovers the layers of colonial influence ingrained in this city. Visit the St. Francis Church within the middle of the fort’s complex. Built-in the year 1503, it is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. The lofty architecture of this Church is impressive in every way and has managed to retain its ancient charm, over the years. Also, visit the Jewish Synagogue located close to Fort Kochi, which is more than 100-years old. It was built in 1568 and is a showpiece displaying hand-painted floor tiles, Belgium-imported glass chandeliers, and rare antiques, etc. and an exclusive gallery.

We end the day with a visit to the Chinese Fishing Nets. They are a hallmark of the Fort Kochi, visible from Fort Kochi. The concept of these fishing nets is said to be introduced by Zheng He (a Chinese explorer). Here the fishing nets are made of bamboo and teakwood poles and practice the principle of balance. Almost every visitor visits here – especially during sunset – to click a few candid. End your day watching the traditional Kathakali Dance Show in Cochin. Overnight stay in Cochin.

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After breakfast, we will drive to Munnar. It is a beautiful hill station named after three rivers: Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly. It is a popular destination in Kerala that offers spellbinding views of vast spice and tea plantations. It also boasts of the highest peak in South India – Anamudi. It is surrounded by various wildlife sanctuaries that house the grizzled giant squirrel, elephant, gaur, Nilgiri langur, sambar, etc. and the endangered Nilgiri tahr (Mountain Goat). Also, a blue flower neelakurinji grows here every 12 years. On arrival, check-in at the hotel. Later, go for sightseeing of Munnar with the first visit to the Munnar Tea Estates. Walkthrough these sprawling tea estates and soak yourself in the refreshing aroma of the tea leaves. Here you can also visit the Tea Museum that showcases old photographs and huge machinery that has been used in tea processing over the years. Also, get a firsthand experience of how tea is processed.

Explore the Eravikulam National Park, a must-visit while in Munnar. Also, visit the Mattupetty Dam which is a concrete gravity dam constructed between 1949 and 1953 for the purpose of conservation of water and hydroelectricity generation. The captivating reflection of the surrounding tea gardens falling upon the still water is the best part of this dam. Overnight stay in Munnar.

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After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Periyar and upon arrival, check-in at the hotel followed by an overnight stay. Periyar, the southernmost state of Kerala, is known for its Periyar wildlife sanctuary that is one of the most natural wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Apart from wildlife, it is also blessed with mesmerizing natural beauty, spice gardens and plantations. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

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After breakfast, visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – one of India’s biggest wildlife sanctuaries. Take a boat ride on the man-made Periyar Lake, running through the forests of the Western Ghats in Kerala. The variety of animals here, include Elephants, Sambar, Gaur, Wild boars and birds like Ibis and Grey Heron. With a bit of extra luck, you may spot Tigers as well. Head for a Spice Plantation Tour. Spices have always been an important part of life in Kerala. Here the masters of Ayurveda, the science of life, discovered the use of spices for medicinal purposes. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

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After breakfast, check-out from the hotel and proceed to Kumarakom. It is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake. This city fascinates its visitors with the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, situated on the eastern bank of the Vembanad Lake. It is a 14-acre natural habitat to an interesting variety of migratory birds like Liberian Stork, egret, darter, heron and teal that visit here in flocks. On arrival, check-in at the hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

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After breakfast, depart from the hotel and drive to Alleppey. It is a hub of backwaters in Kerala, home to a number of waterways and thousands of houseboats for you to explore. On arrival, board a traditional houseboat. While enjoying a houseboat ride on the backwaters here, witness the tropical village life. A houseboat ride on the backwaters in Alleppey is a must-have experience when in Kerala. After registering, customers will receive refreshing coconut water as a welcome drink.

Later in the afternoon, the boat will be anchored near rice paddies for lunch. Then resume cruise in some time. In the evening, tea/coffee and snacks will be served. The boat will be anchored near a village for the night. Settle in for dinner at night. Note: Cruising is not possible during the night as it is during this time that local fishermen put their nets. Overnight stay in Houseboat.

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After breakfast, drive to Cochin Airport to board your flight for your onward journey.