9-Night Essence of Kerala Tour

Day 1: Kochi

You will be welcomed by your representative at Cochin International Airport and transferred to the hotel. Kochi, also called Cochin, offers you the best of history and culture anywhere in the state. A port town since early centuries, Cochin attracted traders and invaders from the world over. In the evening, you can go for a relaxing sunset cruise. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Kochi

Today you can go for a sightseeing tour of Cochin. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance show. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: Kochi - Alleppey

Travel 40 miles (65km) to Alleppey, check in your hotel where you can go for an optional cruise on the Backwaters by a motorboat, a splendid area full of canals, lakes and coves. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 4: Alleppey - Periyar

Today you'll travel 90miles (145 km) to Periyar, an area known for its undulating hills, spice plantations, and elephant sightings. One of the 27 tiger reserves in India, the Periyar valley in Thekkady, is the oldest. Check into your hotel. Go on a spice plantation tour for 2 hours with a naturalist who will explain the details. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5: Periyar

In the morning hours you can enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake. Later, in the evening, witness the Kalaripayattu, a style of martial arts.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Periyar - Munnar

Drive 68 miles (110 km) to Munnar, a hill station located over 5200 feet (1600 m) above sea level. Once the summer resort of the British administration in South India, it still retains its colonial charm and is famous for its tea plantations, most of which are privately owned.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7: Munnar

Today you take a visit to a tea museum, take a short trip to the Eravikulam National Park (home to the endangered Nilgiri Thar mountain goat, among others) or simply walk through the enchanting tea estates and enjoy the tranquility provided. Day at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8: Munnar - Marari

Drive to the picturesque fishing village of Mararikulam. Tucked away inside quiet and lush coconut groves, this resort set by the pristine white-sand beaches of Marari, offers you unparalleled quiet in astoundingly beautiful settings.Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9: Marari

Day at leisure on the beach. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 10: Marari - Kochi

There is no itinerary planned for the day. After breakfast, you will be transferred 46 miles (75 km) to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey.