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Kerala Explorer Tour

Whether it’s the food, culture or scenery of southern India you wish to experience and explore, this small group tour is for you. Discover atmospheric Kochi, follow nature trails in Periyar National Park, travel inland into the Western Ghats where historic hill stations are surrounded by rolling tea plantations and explore ‘God’s Own Country’ Kerala, where a tranquil cruise on a traditional houseboat is included. Led by a local guide you'll get a real insider's view of the places you visit with a unique glimpse into the communities that call this part of India home.

Tour type Escorted Tours

Duration 9 nights

Interest Escorted Small Group Tour

Min price range p/p

£2,575 - £2,650pp Including international flights. Also available on a private basis, see guide pricing below.

Recommended itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kochi

On arrival, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel where you’ll spend two nights. Your sightseeing begins early evening today with a cruise around Kochi harbour. Cruise to where the Kochi Lagoon opens out into the Arabian Sea and see the famous Chinese fishing nets of Fort Kochi from this unique perspective before heading back to dry land for a welcome dinner. The meal is a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers. Overnight at Fragrant Nature Kochi (or similar).

Day 2

Kochi

Your first full day in India includes a half day sightseeing tour of Kochi. Included in the tour is the Paradesi Synagogue, located in the Jewish quarter of the city and the oldest surviving Synagogue in India. You will also visit the Dutch Palace which was built by the Portuguese in the early decades of the 16th century. This evening, you may wish to experience the culture of the state of Kerala, taking in an optional Kathakali dance performance. Go backstage to witness the care that goes into preparing the elaborate makeup and costumes, before watching these traditional and beautiful dances. Overnight at Fragrant Nature Kochi (or similar).

Day 3

Kochi & Munnar

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before driving to Munnar (approximately 4 hours). Sitting at 1600 metres above sea level, Munnar was once a southern India summer resort of the British government. It is surrounded by sprawling tea plantations, one of which you will explore tomorrow. Relax in the afternoon or if you wish you can visit the Srishti Foundation, a charitable trust aiming to improve life for people with special needs and their families in Munnar. Please note the foundation is a NGO so may be closed at short notice due to operational reasons. There is no cost to visit but any donations are appreciated. Overnight at Fragrant Nature Munnar (or similar).

Day 4

Munnar

Tea has played an integral part in the history of Munnar, which you will learn all about today. Start by visiting a plantation where you will learn how leaves are plucked and speak to the local tea pickers who may offer insight into their daily routine. Later, return to the town and visit the Tea Museum, which chronicles the growth of India's national drink and Munnar's role in this global industry. Various stages of tea processing can be seen, including the making of black tea. Your final stop today is for a tea tasting session at a local café. Overnight at Fragrant Nature Munnar (or similar).

Day 5

Munnar & Thekkady

Enjoy a relaxed morning before driving to Thekkady, a small town in the shadow of the Western Ghats and the gateway to Periyar National Park (approximately 4 hours). This evening before dinner, visit a local theatre to watch a Kalaripayattu show, an ancient martial art form, that is indigenous to Kerala. It amalgamates body control, treatment, and armed as well as unarmed combat and is closely entwined with the region's cultural history. Overnight at Cardamom County (or similar).

Day 6

Thekkady

Today the focus is on the region’s wildlife and natural landscapes. The morning begins early with a gentle walk (3 hours) along the nature trails in Periyar National Park. You’ll be accompanied by a trained guide who will point out various bird and wildlife species. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, a local naturalist will accompany you through a local spice plantation. The tour is an opportunity to meander through cardamom, pepper, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and many other varieties of spices and medicinal plants and gives you an insight into how these are grown, harvested and processes. The late afternoon and evening are free to relax at the pool or discover the local area further. Overnight at Cardamom County (or similar).

Day 7

Thekkady & Kumarakom

Undoubtedly a highlight of a trip to Kerala is the opportunity to cruise the famous backwaters on a traditional houseboat. Drive from Thekkady to Alleppey (approximately 4 hours) to board the boat. Wind your way through the maze of waterways and enjoy this truly relaxing mode of travel, including lunch on board. Continue to Kumarakom, your base for the next two nights (approximately 1 hour drive). Overnight at Coconut Lagoon (or similar).

Day 8

Kumarakom

Today is a full day at leisure to relax and enjoy the facilities at the resort. Perhaps head to the Ayurveda Centre for a rejuvenating treatment, before coming together for a dinner in the evening. Overnight at Coconut Lagoon (or similar).

Day 9

Kumarakom & Kochi

Enjoy a relaxed morning before the drive back to Kochi (approximately 1.5 hours). The afternoon is free to relax or explore Kochi some more. Overnight at Fragrant Nature Kochi (or similar).

Day 10

Departure

Transfer to the airport in time for your flight back home, or onward travel.

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