10Days Southern India
Departure any day of the week
Price from: $2399 per person on Twin sharing basis
Contact us for the departure dates
Cochin – Munnar – Periyar – Alleppey – Kovalam – Trivandum
Day 1: Cochin
On arrival at Cochin Airport; where you will be met and transferred to your Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure
Day 2: Cochin (B)
This morning, proceed on a sightseeing tour of Cochin by visiting "the Jewish Synagogue" at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town, "the St. Francis Church", the oldest European Church in India, "the Santa Cruz Basilica" originally built in 1557 by the Portuguese, the Dutch Palace and Spice market in narrow streets. Also visit the "Chinese fishing nets" huge cantilevered fishing nets believed to have been brought to Kochi by Chinese traders. Afternoon is at leisure to explore the city on your own
In the evening visit the famous dance drama of Kerala, the “Kathakali”. This dance can be characterized by grotesque gesticulations, amazing costumes and very extensive make-up. The stories are mostly taken from the epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana.
Day 3: Cochin – Munnar (B)
This morning, embark on your drive to Munnar, one of the most popular hill resorts of south India. British rulers called Munnar ‘Switzerland of India' for its natural surroundings and cool climate. The entire area is occupied by thick forests and tea estates. The specialty of Munnar is jungle honey, tea and a rare flower ‘Neela Kurunji’ which blooms once in 12 years. Upon arrival in Munnar, check in to your Hotel. Afternoon is at leisure
Day 4: Munnar (B)
Today morning, visit a local tea plantation and the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the cultivation and processing of a variety of Indian teas.
High up in the Cardamom Hills, the town is surrounded by rolling tea plantations, the highest in the world at 6000ft, and interspersed with planters' bungalows and grand old churches from the Raj era. There are many interesting walks around the plantations and hills. Trek through cardamom forests and landscaped tea shrubs. Take picnics besides scenic waterfalls or hill-tops with panoramic views. Afternoon is at leisure to explore on own
Day 5: Munnar – Periyar (B)
This morning, embark on a scenic drive to Periyar, the wildlife and spice plantation hub of Kerala.
In the afternoon, take a spice plantation tour and learn about the mystery and history of Indian spices. You also get the opportunity to shop for fragrant spices at a local market.
Day 6: Periyar – Alleppey (B)
This morning, you will be driven to Alleppey, also known as “Venice of the East” because of the narrow canals and backwaters, to board your houseboat to cruise through the backwaters of Kerala.
Afternoon, enjoy backwater cruise on Lake Veminad. Kerala backwaters consist of a complex network of lagoons, lakes, & canals and are best experienced while slowly rowing down the labyrinth of canals in a traditional thatch-roofed houseboat, known as 'Kettuvallam'.
See life on the banks, lush green rice fields, and coconut groves with occasional temple or church as you cruise through the canals. Enjoy the special Kerala style meals prepared by your chef on board.
Day 7: Alleppey – Kovalam (B)
Today morning, you will disembark at Alleppey jetty and drive to Kovalam.
Kovalam is famous for its beaches, among the most pristine in India. Kovalam shot into limelight in the early seventies with arrivals of the masses of hippies. That started the transformation of a casual fishing village of Kerala into one of the most important tourist destinations in all India- the Kovalam beach.
Rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the city on your own
Day 8: Kovalam – Kanya Kumari – Kovalam (B)
Full day is at leisure to explore on own
Day 9: Kovalam (B)
Full day is at leisure to explore on own
Day 10: Kovalam – Trivandrum (B)
Today, at an appointed time, you will be collected from your Hotel and transferred to Trivandrum airport to connect your onward flight
Included: Accommodation in 4* hotel, meals and transfers as per itinerary, sightseeing and entrance fees
Note: Please contact us if you require more information on different Hotel categories.
Prices quoted are valid from 01 March - 30 September 2022. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.