Keralan Backwaters & Beyond
Private Guided Tour
Kochi | Munnar | Madurai | Thekkady | Backwaters | Kumarakom
Discover the rich tapestry of South India on this unforgettable journey through Kerala and Tamil Nadu. From the colonial charm of Kochi to the misty hills of Munnar, the sacred temples of Madurai to the wildlife-rich forests of Thekkady, and finally the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. This itinerary offers a mix of local life, history, nature, beautiful landscapes, and time to relax.
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Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
Day 1 : UK - Kochi
On arrival in Kochi, transfer to your hotel. In the late afternoon, enjoy a performance of Kathakali, Kerala’s centuries-old pantomimic dance-drama.
Day 2 : Kochi
Nestled along Kerala’s lush Malabar Coast, Kochi is a captivating blend of colonial charm and vibrant Indian culture. Wander through the historic Fort Kochi with its Portuguese churches, Chinese fishing nets, and spice-scented streets. This is an unforgettable gateway to South India. Highlights today including a walking tour following the spice trail of Fort Kochi, a tour of the city which will take you back to the 14th century, and a cooking demonstration with an Indian family. (B)
Day 3 : Munnar
This beautiful hill station sits in the mountainous Western Ghats and was a popular retreat for the British Raj seeking respite from the brutal summer heat. The drive takes around 3 ½ hours, on arrival the rest of your day is free to relax. (B)
Day 4 : Munnar
Discover the Lockhart Tea Estate, 1600 acres of tea plantations weaving across the slopes of the Chokarmudy Hills. Dating from 1857, this is one of the oldest establishments still following traditional methods of tea processing. Depending on the day and areas visited you may get to meet the ladies who still pick the tea by hand. (B)
Day 5 : Madurai
After breakfast today transfer to Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Famed as a temple town, this evening’s tour is to the Meenakshi Temple complex for an atmospheric ceremony filled with musicians, temple singers and priests. (B)
Day 6 : Madurai
Today’s ‘Once upon a time in Madurai’ tour unravels the mysteries of this ancient market city. This tour takes you behind the stories and into the heart of a city known across India for its iconic flower, the jasmine. Later, embark on a cycle rickshaw tour of Tirumalai Nayak Palace. (B)
Day 7 : Thekkady
Home to the Periyar National Park, Thekkady is known for its savannah grasslands, lush forests and the abundance of natural spices that are so evocative of India. The drive from Madurai is around 3 ½ hours. This evening there is opportunity to enjoy a display of Kerala’s martial art, Kalaripayattu or Kalari, it is often referred to as the ‘mother of all martial arts’ and dates back more than 3000 years. (B)
Day 8 : Thekkady
Sitting within the aromatic Cardamom Hills, today explore Thekkady on a guided nature walk, where there is chance to spot a myriad of birds, butterflies and wildlife. This is followed by a tour of the spice plantation, where the terraces are filled with peppers, cloves, turmeric, vanilla, and cinnamon. Lastly, take to the waters of Periyar Lake for a boat ride, during March to May other water reserves dry up and you may spot wildlife such as elephants coming to the lake to drink. (B)
Day 9 : Kerala Backwaters
From Thekkady it is a 4-hour drive to Alleppey and the backwaters. Enroute a stop is made at a rubber planation where a guided walk will unlock the intricate process of tapping rubber. On arrival in Alleppey board your houseboat for a memorable overnight experience. These beautifully designed boats are traditionally crafted from jackfruit tree wood, coconut fibre and bamboo yet have all the creature comforts including air conditioning. Each houseboat has 3 members of crew, a chef, driver, and cabin assistant to ensure your stay is as welcoming and comfortable as possible. (B,L,D)
Day 10 : Kumarakom
After breakfast today transfer from your overwater abode for the drive to Kumarakom. One of Kerala’s most enchanting backwaters, this is a hub of biodiversity filled with rice paddies, coconut palms and mangrove forests. It is a place of peace and tranquillity. Enroute to Kumarakom spend time with a local family where there is an opportunity to try local dress, followed by lunch. (B,L)
Day 11 : Kumarakom
Today is completely free to relax and enjoy Kumarakom. Known for its yoga, Ayurvedic massage and meditation this is the perfect way to end your time in beautiful Kerala. (B)
Day 12 : Depart
Your driver will collect you today for the drive to Kochi airport for your onward flight. (B)
