Kerala Beaches and Backwaters

Duration: 09 Nights & 10 Days
Destinations: Cochin (2N) – Periyar(2N) –Kumarakom (2N) - Kovalam (3N)

Beaches and Backwaters

Blessed with beautiful beaches, tranquil lakes, meandering backwaters, aroma of the spice plantations, and colonial architectures, Kerala is “God’s own country”. Embrace the journey through South of India in this enchanting itinerary through Cochin, Periyar, Kumarakom and Koyalamand immerse yourself in its people, heritage, food, culture, landscape, and wellness. Cochin is a charming seaside city flanked by the Western Ghats, is a rich fusion of cultural heritage fromand unlikely blend of medieval Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialism. Periyaris famous for its Wildlife Sanctuary renowned for its conservation work that has successfully increased the populations of tigers and Asian elephants. Kumarakom, set on the bank of the serene Vembanad Lake, where its emerald, green backwaters is a favourite haunt for migratory birds and a haven for its permanent dwellers. Kovalam’s beautiful bay of calm waters, golden sandy beaches, flourishing ayurveda and yoga scenesis  a paradise for the soul-cultivating travellers. The laidback rhythm of Kerala embodied unique experiences and cherished spirit, will make this journey a celebration of a lifetime.

Tour Highlights

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 01 – ARRIVE IN COCHIN:

• Welcome by our representative at the airport with a traditional 'Swagat' Ceremony and transfer to the hotel for check in. Enjoy day at leisure in this beautiful serene and laidback state of Cochin.

Overnight Hotel –Cochin

DAY 02 –COCHIN:

• After breakfast, we proceed to visiting St. Francis' Church, the oldest European church in India where Vasco da Gama's remains were buried before it was moved to Lisbon.
• We then visit Dutch Palace, a Portuguese palace gifted to the Raja of Cochin for some fine collections of paintings from scenes of Hindu epics, Mahabharata & Ramayana.
• Stop at the Paradesi Synagogue located in the Jew Town where four scrolls of Torah from the Old Testament are kept.
• Explore the Spice market, a colorful paradise, and a scented memory.
• Head to the Fort Kochi beach to watch the Chinese fishing nets, (Cheenavala)
• In the evening, join us to watch the  Kathakali, Kerala's classical dance.

Overnight Hotel -Cochin (Breakfast)

 DAY 03 – COCHIN to PERIYAR(Car/Coach: 145 kms / 4-5 hrs):

• After breakfast, drive to Periyar. Upon arrival spend your day at leisure exploring this charming hill town.

Overnight Hotel - Periyar (Breakfast)

DAY 4 –PERIYAR:

• An early start for a 2hrs scenic cruise on the tranquil Lake Periyar and enjoy this breathtakingly beautiful lake in the sunrise mist. Try and spot some wildlife too. Back to the hotel for a refreshing breakfast.
• Later in the afternoon, we’ll take a tour of the sprawling aromatic Spice Plantation.
• Return to the hotel and spend the evening at your leisure.

Overnight Hotel - Periyar (Breakfast)

DAY 05 –PERIYAR to KUMARAKOM (Car/Coach: 140 kms / 5 hrs):

• After breakfast, we drive to Kumarakom. The stunning cluster of is lands on the majestic Vembanad Lake where its backwaters is home to a varied range of flora and fauna, peculiar and rare local and migratory birds, and various species marine life. Check in the hotel and spend the day at leisure.

Overnight Hotel - Kumarakom (Breakfast)

DAY 06 –KUMARAKOM:

• Start an early morning bird watching tour with a naturalist and return to hotel for Breakfast.
• In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely backwater lunch cruise on one a houseboat.

Overnight Hotel –Kumarakom
(Breakfast, Lunch at the houseboat)

DAY 07 –KUMARAKOM to KOVALAM (Car/Coach:(200 kms – 6 hrs):

• Drive to Kovalam, via Trivandrum to Padmanabha Swami Temple, the world’s richest temple, not just in material wealth but also in ancient scriptures and artifacts.
• Next, we’ll visit Napier Museum, to revel in their rare collection of archaeological artefacts,  bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot, and ivory carvings.
• Stop at Sri Chitra Art Gallery will provide a view on excellent collections of Indian arts from the Mughal & Rajput era.
• Recommence our drive to Kovalam. Upon arrival check-in the hotel.

Overnight Hotel - Kovalam (Breakfast)

DAY 8 –KOVALAM:

• Spend the day at your leisure exploring this this coastal town, famous for its immaculate beaches, rich cultural legacy, spectacular natural beauty, and a paradise of Ayurveda. It’s the best place to enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapy session.

**Please note transportation is not included on this day**
Overnight Hotel –Kovalam (Breakfast)

DAY 9–KOVALAM:

• Another day to spend at your leisure. Explore the town, relish in some wellness therapy, savor some fresh seafood, or just spend the day by the beach. Some additional experience tours are also available on request.

**Please note transportation is not included on this day**
Overnight Hotel –Kovalam (Breakfast)

DAY 10–KOVALAM:
After Breakfast, we will transfer you to Trivandrum International Airport to board your flight for your onward journey and conclude your tour. We Thank you for travelling with Caper Travel and letting us be part of your journey. We hope to see you again soon!
Departure (Breakfast)

PACKAGE RATES INCLUDES:

• 9 x Nights’ Accommodation.
• Total of 9xBreakfasts per person (one/ day at each hotel – excluding arrival day) & 1 lunch per person at the Houseboat in Kumarakom.
• Entry fee (Single visit) to all Monuments will be visited in the itineraries.
• Transportation – Air condition Toyota Crysta car (min 2 pax) OR an Air condition 9seaters Mini coach (min 4-6 pax) with driver.
• Services of an English-speaking guide (excluding ‘leisure’ intervals).
• Additional transportation –Shared Boat cruise at Lake Periyar,Shared Houseboat cruise at Kumarakom

PACKAGE EXCLUDES:

• Flights (local and international) or any mode of transportation not mentioned in the package.
• Any personal expenses e.g: alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, laundry, telephones, tips, meal not stated as ‘included’, Camera fee, etc.
• Any items/destinations/tours not stated as ‘included’ in this package.
• Additional Experiences Tours are priced separately and will be charged accordingly.

HOTELS UTILISED:

*subject to availability and changes to a similar category*: