from 0 review
7 Nights / 8 Days
Daily Tour
10 people
English
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of South India with “Backwaters & Highlands: A Journey from Cochin to Madurai.” Begin your adventure in Cochin, exploring its vibrant cityscape and historic landmarks before setting sail on a serene houseboat cruise through the lush backwaters of Alleppey. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Thekkady’s wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations, then ascend to the picturesque hill station of Munnar, renowned for its tea estates and breathtaking views. Conclude your journey with a visit to Madurai, where the grandeur of the Meenakshi Amman Temple and the historic Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace await. This tour offers a seamless blend of scenic beauty and cultural exploration, showcasing the best of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
# | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Discount on 2-person group | 2 | 2 | 44.9% |
2 | Discount on 3-person group | 3 | 3 | 44.0% |
3 | Discount on 4-person group | 4 | 4 | 52.4% |
4 | Discount on 5-person group | 5 | 5 | 52.8% |
5 | Discount on 6-person group | 6 | 6 | 57.5% |
7 | Discount on 7-person group | 7 | 7 | 57.1% |
8 | Discount on 8-person group | 8 | 8 | 61.2% |
Upon arrival at Cochin airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in and breakfast at the hotel, begin your city tour of Cochin. Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi, showcasing an ancient, ingenious fishing method unique to Cochin's coastline. Explore St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, with historical significance as Vasco da Gama's first burial site. Tour the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), renowned for its beautiful murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Discover the Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town, a 16th-century landmark with intricately designed hand-painted tiles and antique furnishings. Stroll through the vibrant spice markets of Jew Town, offering an array of exotic spices and traditional crafts. In the evening, witness a Kathakali dance presentation, an elaborate and colorful traditional art form of Kerala featuring intricate costumes and expressive storytelling.
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Alleppey. Board a private houseboat at the Alleppey boat jetty and begin a tranquil cruise through the lush backwaters. Sail along serene waterways, observing traditional village life and stunning natural scenery. Enjoy a traditional Kerala-style lunch on the houseboat, featuring freshly prepared local cuisine. Relax on the houseboat, taking in the peaceful surroundings and the rich flora and fauna of the backwaters. Spend the night on the houseboat, drifting gently along the canals under the stars.
After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive to Thekkady. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and unwind. In the evening, visit the Mudra Cultural Centre to watch a Kalaripayattu performance, a traditional martial art of Kerala known for its dynamic and disciplined movements. Explore the local night markets of Thekkady, where you can sample regional street food and shop for local handicrafts.
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a boat safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot wildlife such as elephants, bison, deer, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. After the safari, visit a local spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Tour the spice gardens and discover the processing methods of various spices. Explore the local market to purchase fresh spices, herbal products, and other regional specialties.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before driving to Munnar. En route, stop at Ramakkalmedu, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the rolling hills and verdant valleys of the Western Ghats. Upon arrival in Munnar, visit the Tea Museum to delve into the history and processes of tea production. Engage in a tea tasting session to savor the distinct flavors of Munnar's renowned tea estates. Explore the local tea gardens, where you can observe the tea-picking process and enjoy the lush greenery.
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before exploring Munnar. Visit Mattupetty, known for its cattle village and specialized dairy farm, where you can learn about the Swiss Livestock Project and see various breeds of cattle. Explore Pothamedu, famous for its breathtaking views of tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, and enjoy the panoramic scenery. Proceed to Devikulam, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and serene Sita Devi Lake. Enjoy trout fishing or engage in adventure sports at Sita Devi Lake. Visit the nearby Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and experience the park's diverse flora and fauna.
After breakfast at your hotel, drive to Madurai. Check in at your hotel and then begin your sightseeing tour of the city. Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a magnificent temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, known for its towering gopurams, detailed sculptures, and vibrant ceremonies. Explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an Indo-Saracenic architectural marvel with grand courtyards and intricately carved pillars. Stroll through the bustling streets of Madurai, visiting local markets and sampling regional delicacies. Discover the Gandhi Museum, which chronicles the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi with a collection of photographs and artifacts.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or additional sightseeing in Madurai. Our representative will transfer you to Madurai airport for your onward journey, concluding your memorable South India tour.
Hotels used or similar for 7 nights accommodation
3 Star Hotels
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians
Alleppey x 1 night: Deluxe Houseboat (AC During Night Only)
Thekkady x 2 nights: Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
Munnar x 2 nights: Abad Copper Castle/ Elysium Garden Hill Resort
Madurai x 1 night: JC Residency/ Hotel Royal Court
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