Kerala, one of the smallest states in the Republic of India, was formed in 1956. It has an area of 15,005 sq. miles [38,863 sq. kms], about one percent of the total land area of India. The state stretches for about 360 miles along the Malabar Coast on the western side of the Indian peninsula; its width varies from 20 to 75 miles. It is bordered by the states of Karnataka on the north, Tamil Nadu to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west (map). The state has 14 districts and the capital is Trivandrum [now Thiruvananthapuram].
Kerala is a land of great natural beauty. From the majestic heights of the Western Ghats the country undulates westward presenting a vista of silent valleys clothed in the richest green. Among the many rivers that glide across the plains to merge their waters with the Arabian Sea, the more important are the Periyar, the Pamba and the Bharatha puzha. The elegant waterfalls at Athirampally near Trichur is a popular tourist spot. The silence of the clear skies is broken only by the coos of koels, a type of cuckoo, and the frequent flutter of cranes perched on the embankments. The highest peak of peninsular India Annai Mudi is located in this state. The scenic Thekkady Wild Life Sanctuary is a popular vacation destination for nature lovers.
The climate is equable and varies little from season to season. The temperature normally ranges from 80 to 90 F in the plains but drops to about 70 F in the highlands. The state gets its due share of both the southwest as well as the northeast monsoons, and the rainfall is heavy, averaging around 118 inches annually.
Destinations Covered: Cochin – Munnar – Periyar – Kumarakom – Alleppey – Kovalam
Day 01: Cochin
Arrival at Cochin airport/railway station. Upon arrival meeting & assistance and transfer to the hotel. Later proceed for the local sightseeing of Cochin covering Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Jew Town, St. Francis Church, Cochin Port, Chinese Fishing Nets etc. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 02: Cochin - Munnar
Depart from Cochin by road for Munnar (160 kms approx 4 hrs). Arrive at Munnar and transfer to hotel. The hill station is approximately 1600 mts above sea level and is known for its tea plantations. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 03: Munnar
Full day sightseeing of Munnar covering Matuppati Dam, Indo Swiss Project and Eravikulam National Park. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 04: Munnar - Periyar
Depart from Munnar by road for Periyar (100 kms approx 3 hrs). Arrive at Periyar - One of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries of India. Check into your hotel. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Periyar and view the wildlife. Later visit Kumily, the spice market. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 05: Periyar - Kumarakom
Depart from Periyar by road for Kumarakom (120 kms approx. 4 hrs). Arrive at Kumarakom & check into your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure and enjoy backwater country. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 06: Kumarakom - Alleppey
Morning after breakfast proceed to Alleppey to board the houseboat at around 12 .00 noon. Your own personal crew drives the boat into the backwaters and anchors in a serene location for lunch prepared on the boat to your taste. After lunch you sail past the numerous canals passing extensive paddy fields, villages etc. We leave the following morning at 10.00 am after breakfast. Overnight stay at houseboat.
Day 07: Alleppey - Kovalam
After breakfast check out from the house boat at 10.00hrs and then drive to Kovalam (190 kms /4.5 hrs). Upon arrival transfer to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 08: Kovalam
Full day free & easy. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 09: Depart Kovalam
After breakfast transfer to the airport to connect flight to your next destination.
Customized packages are available on request based on individual need, budget, duration etc.