Enchanting Kerala: A Journey through God's Own Country

DAY 01: ARRIVE COCHIN

• Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, complete the immigration, baggage collection, and customs procedures. Tamarind Global representative will be waiting for you at the EXIT of the ARRIVAL TERMINAL building who will assist you and arrange your transfer to the hotel. After reaching the hotel, proceed with the check-in process. Please note that check-in time is at 14:00 hrs.
• Cochin, is a captivating city situated on the south-western coast of India. This bustling metropolis is a major port city and commercial hub of the region, with a rich history of trade and cultural exchange dating back to ancient times. One of the most striking features of Cochin is its diverse population, which is a melting pot of different religions, languages, and cultures. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and way of life. Cochin is renowned for its beautiful beaches, tranquil backwaters, and historical landmarks, such as the Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and St. Francis Church. The city's economy is thriving, with major industries including tourism, information technology, and seafood exports. Cochin is also home to several prominent educational institutions and research centers, making it a hub of innovation and intellectual activity.

DAY 02: COCHIN - MUNNAR

• Following breakfast, start your drive to Munnar (Approx. 130 kms / 5 hours) On your arrival in Munnar, check in at the hotel.
• Munnar is a popular hill station located in the state of Kerala, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, encompassing vast tea plantations, pristine valleys, gushing waterfalls, and dense forests. It is also famous for its extensive tea estates that cover the surrounding hills. The tea gardens present a scenic view with rows of tea bushes spread across the slopes. Visitors can explore the tea plantations, witness the tea-making process, and even indulge in tea tasting sessions. Munnar is a serene and captivating destination, providing a perfect retreat for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility in the lap of nature.
• Spend the evening at leisure. 

DAY 03: MUNNAR

• Following breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Munnar.
• Today, enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Munnar. In the morning, visit the Tea Museum in the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea (Closed on Monday), which showcases some of the exquisite and interesting aspects of the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machinery. 
• Also visit Mattupetty, located about 13 km from Munnar. Mattupetty is known for its dam and the beautiful lake, which offers pleasurable boat rides.
• Your tour also includes visit to Eravikulam National Park.
• Spend the evening at leisure.

DAY 04: Munnar – Thekkady

• Following breakfast, start your drive to Thekkady (Approx. 140 Kms. /04 Hrs.). On arrival in Thekkady, check in at the hotel.
• Thekkady, nestled in the Idukki district of the Indian state of Kerala, is a popular tourist destination that boasts of a stunning wildlife sanctuary, also known as the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with its breathtaking scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and pristine lakes. It is renowned for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity, with lush forests, rolling hills, and serene lakes. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of wildlife, including majestic elephants, tigers, bison, sambar deer, and a plethora of bird and butterfly species. Visitors to Thekkady can indulge in a variety of activities, such as boat rides on the Periyar Lake, trekking, bamboo rafting, and wildlife safaris. The town also boasts of several spice and tea plantations, where visitors can learn about the region's famous spices and teas and even purchase some to take home.
• Experience Spice Plantation tour. Walk amidst the rows of vines creeping upwards on trellises. The correct time to pluck the peppercorns is when they are beginning to redden, just before they are completely ripe. Try your hand at it, but be sure to wash up before touching your eyes or nose! Walk past the rows of mats on which the plucked peppercorns are left to dry. The scent of pepper mingles with the fresh mountain air. This is the starting point of the centuries old spice trade and that delicious flavor which makes such a difference to foods worldwide.
• Spend rest of the day at leisure.

DAY 05: Thekkady – Alleppey

• Following breakfast, you will be transferred to jetty point to board overnight houseboat (Approx. 128 Kms. /04 Hrs.).
• Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a picturesque town located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and peaceful experiences. It is famous for its backwaters, a network of interconnected canals, lakes, and lagoons. The backwaters offer a unique and tranquil experience as you cruise through the serene waterways surrounded by coconut groves, paddy fields, and small villages. Exploring the backwaters, cruising on a houseboat, and immersing yourself in the local culture.
• Spend rest of the day at leisure.
• Overnight stay in Alleppey
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 06: Alleppey – Kumarakom

• Following breakfast, disembark the houseboat and start your drive to Kumarakom (Approx. 35 kms / 1 hour) .On arrival in Kumarakom, check in at the hotel.
• Kumarakom, a charming village nestled in the Kottayam district of Kerala, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a tranquil escape. This idyllic village is situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala and one of the largest freshwater lakes in India. The village is renowned for its picturesque backwaters, houseboats, and bird sanctuary. Tourists flock to Kumarakom to bask in the breathtaking beauty of the backwaters, take a leisurely ride on a houseboat, and immerse themselves in the local culture and cuisine. The bird sanctuary is a major attraction, boasting a diverse range of migratory and local birds. Kumarakom is a serene and captivating village that offers visitors a chance to unwind amidst the natural beauty of Kerala. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, Kumarakom has something for everyone.
• Spend rest of the day at leisure.

DAY 07: KUMARAKOM - COCHIN

• Following breakfast, start your drive to Cochin (Approx. 35 kms / 1 hour).On arrival in Cochin, check in at the hotel.
• Later start the tour of Cochin including visit to the Dutch Palace (Closed on Friday), also known as Mattancherry Palace, is a historic building located in the Mattancherry neighborhood of Cochin. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch in the 17th century, hence its name. It is known for its stunning architecture, with a mix of European and traditional Kerala styles. It features a central courtyard with a small temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Krishna. The palace also has a collection of beautiful murals depicting scenes from the Hindu epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, as well as portraits of the former rulers of Cochin. Today, it serves as a museum and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the palace's rich history and admire its impressive architecture and art collection. The palace is one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Cochin and is an important part of the city's cultural heritage. 
• Also visit the Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Friday & Saturday), St. Francis Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica followed by visit to Spice market. See the Chinese fishing nets, which dot the harbour as you drive along the coastline. The tour ends in the Fort Kochi area where you can walk through the historical Dutch and Portuguese buildings. Some parts of this nearly 500-year-old Fort are still amazingly well preserved. Also visit Jew Street which is famous for its antiques. 
• In the evening proceed for evening visit to a traditional Kathakali school to enjoy a Kathakali dance performance. Kathakali is a traditional dance from Kerala and is performed only by men.

DAY 08: DEPARTURE

• After having breakfast at the hotel, our representative will assist you with your transfer to the airport for your onward flight.