KERALA
Kerala, a state on India's tropical Malabar Coast, has nearly 600km of Arabian Sea shoreline. It's known for its palm-lined beaches and backwaters, a network of canals. Inland are the Western Ghats, mountains whose slopes support tea, coffee and spice plantations as well as wildlife. National parks like Eravikulam and Periyar, plus Wayanad and other sanctuaries, are home to elephants, langur monkeys and tigers.
Overview
MUNNAR + THEKKADY + ALLEPPEY
See Kerala at its finest. From misty tea gardens in Munnar to dense forests and wildlife in Thekkady, from a night spent floating on the calm backwaters in Alleppey to a swim in the waters around Kumarakom, this holiday package brings you the best that Kerala has to offer. Every facet of this coastal state is full of surprises and unique experiences, which enthral visitors every time.
Overview
MUNNAR + THEKKADY+KUMARAKOM+KOCHI
The South Indian state of Kerala is best known for its unique geographical features that have made it one of the most frequented holiday destinations in India. Every destination has its own charm and offers diverse attractions that leave tourists spellbound – the hill station of Munnar, wildlife haven Thekkady and the backwaters of Kumarakom. Though donned with diverse landscapes, each destination holds on to the same thread of greenery and tranquillity.
Overview
MUNNAR + THEKKADY+ALLEPPEY
Nature at its best! Thick luscious foliage, relaxed backwaters, blissful temples and synagogues, coral beaches and serene lakes are apt to describe Kerala. And with this five-day trip experience the charm of the palm-fringed beaches, emerald backwaters, lush green valleys and much more. Listen to the murmur of sea breezes as you soak in the beauty of Kerala, aptly called as 'God's Own Country'. Famous for its sprawling coffee, tea and spice plantations as well as diverse wildlife, Kerala is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in India. Enjoy touring around interesting places in Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey, during this amazing trip.
Overview
KOVALAM+KUMARAKOM
A trip to Kerala provides one of the best holiday experiences to get refreshed and rejuvenated. Visit Kovalam to get sun tanned at its sandy beaches, indulge in soothing ayurvedic massages and partake in water sports. Later, proceed to Kumarakom – a small village known for its picturesque surroundings. A boat ride on the glimmering waters of Lake Vembanad will surely be the highlight of this trip.
CITY - DESCRIPTION
THEKKADY
Thekkady is a small area within the Idukki district of Kerala and is known for the multiple places of tourist interest within the region. Periyar National Park and Periyar Tiger Reserve are one of the major tourist attractions in Thekkady. With a total area of over 770 square km, of which around 360 square kilometers are evergreen forest, Periyar National Park provides a lot of opportunities for exploration, nature rambling, and wildlife viewing. Some of the species that inhabit the area are elephants, sambar, tigers, gaur or Indian bison, langurs, and macaques. Apart from the reserve, there are other attractions close by such as the Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple, the Cardamom Hills, Chellar Kovil waterfalls and many others. Thekkady is close to the Western Ghats, and thus there are many picturesque areas around it which can be visited directly for basking in the beauty of the hills. It also provides great opportunities for treks and hikes through its many misty hills. The Periyar river flows through the park, and the Mullaperiyar Dam creates a reservoir on one end of it. This area, thus also provides excellent panoramic views of the river as well as of the tank.
MUNNAR
With the seemingly unending expanse of tea estates that cover the rolling hills and valleys wreathed in a cool mist, Munnar is a favored vacation spot in South India. Located at an altitude of almost 6000 ft. in Idukki district of Kerala, this enchanting town offers visitors a relief from the summer heat and provides breathtaking sceneries and a slice of adventure. Home to exotic flora and fauna, and nestled among the mountains of the Western Ghats, this hill station offers a sanctuary to many endangered species of animals, at Eravikulam National Park and Kurinjimala Sanctuary. Witness the majesty of Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, which can be seen from Munnar. The rare and beautiful ‘Neelakurinji’ flower blossoms on the slopes of the hills in Munnar, once in every twelve years. Munnar also has several pristine lakes and reservoirs surrounded by tall mountains that exude a serene aura that calms your spirit and kindles the fires of romance in your heart.
KUMARAKOM
Kumarakom is a lovely little village in the Kuttanad region of Kerala. Often referred to as the rice bowl of India, Kumarakom has evolved from a fertile land of farmers to a beautiful village that draws several tourists from all over the world. Most tourists come to Kumarakom to enjoy the serenity and splendour of the famous backwater cruises available here. There are several other interesting places to visit in and around the village. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is truly a birdwatcher’s paradise. It is home to kingfishers, woodpeckers, and owls among others. Several migratory birds such as the Siberian crane can be spotted here as well. The Kumarakom Beach is another tourist hotspot that offers many sporting activities. In addition to swimming, you can also indulge in a lot of adventure activities like boating, parasailing and windsurfing. The resorts around the beach are famous for their Ayurvedic massages and spa treatments. The Bay Island Driftwood Museum holds many unique collections of articles made from driftwood. Also, worth visiting is the beautiful 1000-year old mosque, Juma Masjid.
KOCHI (COCHIN)
A prominent port city in South India, Cochin or Kochi is fondly known as the ‘Queen of Arabian Sea. The city is a harmonious blend of modern city life and traditional charm. The main part of the city is a fast-growing metropolis, an evolving software hub of the country. As you leave the fast lanes of the city and move to the outskirts, you see a quaint village life where the people live in traditional houses, on the banks of the lakes and lagoons interspersing this district. The massive Chinese fishing nets bringing up a hefty catch, from the bottom of the lagoon, is indeed a sight to behold. Mattancherry is a part of Kochi that showcases the hospitality of the people of this region. A visit to the Jewish District and the Jewish Synagogue is a must in Mattancherry. The Santa Cruz Basilica, Dutch Palace, and Kerala Folklore Museum are the other attractions, in Kochi. Refresh your spirit with a stroll along Cherai Beach and Marine Drive. Witness the bewitching beauty of Bolgatty Palace and relish the unique flavors of Kerala cuisine, while in Kochi.
ALLEPPEY (ALAPPUZHA)
Aptly named as ‘Venice of the East’ due to its numerous backwater lakes and lagoons, Alleppey is one of the must-visit cities in India. An emerald-green carpet adorns this district, in the form of vast paddy fields. A golden spread will replace this decor during the harvest season. Alleppey is a city in which Mother Nature has gone all out and ornamented herself with serene lakes, lazy rivers and swaying palm trees. It is truly a paradise on Earth, with charming native and exotic traditions. A night spent cruising along the backwaters on a houseboat, is a magical experience. Feel the energy of the locals as excitement hits its peak during the famous snake boat races conducted on Vembanad Lake.
KOVALAM
Kovalam is a lovely little beach town in Kerala. Translating to mean ‘a grove of coconut trees’, Kovalam name is truly deserved as many coconut trees surround the city. Kovalam’s three sandy beaches, separated by rocks, draw several tourists to this picturesque little town. These beaches are the Samudra Beach, Hawa Beach and the Lighthouse Beach. Apart from these beautiful beaches, Kovalam is also famous for being a wellness hotspot. Most of the resorts in Kovalam offer Ayurvedic massages, as well as yoga, herbal body toning, and meditation sessions. The Kovalam Surf Club on Lighthouse Beach provides basic lessons on how to surfboard, as well as rents out surfboards for those interested. Several interesting cultural programmes are hosted in Kovalam. These include the Swati Thirunal Music Festival, the Nishagandhi Dance Festival, Fandango (food festival), the Elephant Festival, and the Village Fair of Kovalam. Catamaran cruises are also quite popular among tourists visiting Kovalam.
TRIVANDRUM-Thiruvananthapuram – Capital City of Kerala
The capital city of Kerala is famous for its beach beauty, modern and ancient architectural wonders and as a hub of different activities.
There are various wonderful attractions that you will see here like Peppara Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary, Ruvikkara Dam, Poovar, Koyikkal Palace, Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary, Kowdiar Palace, Agasthyakoodam, Kanakakunnu Palace and Anchuthengu Fort.
