Embark on a 10-day journey through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, a state in southern India renowned for its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. This tour offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, from the bustling port city of Cochin to the serene waters of Alleppey.
Upon landing in Cochin, you'll be warmly welcomed and escorted to your hotel for a restful night.
After breakfast, set off for Periyar, nestled in the Cardamom Hills' shadows. Check into your hotel and later, embark on a boat safari on Lake Periyar within the National Park. Encounter wild elephants, bison, deer, and an array of bird species. Stay overnight at the hotel.
An early morning venture into the National Park is recommended for prime wildlife sightings. Post-breakfast, explore spice plantations or join a guided soft trek in the jungle. Spend another night at the hotel.
Post-breakfast, journey to Kumarakom, situated on Lake Vembanad's shores. En route, visit plantations and a tea factory. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise before retiring to your hotel for the night.
Spend the day at your leisure, experiencing the unique local lifestyle. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and board a houseboat for a two-night voyage towards Alleppey, with en route sightseeing along the backwaters. Overnight on the houseboat.
Continue your houseboat journey, exploring Kerala's rural life along the way. Spend another night on board.
After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive back to Cochin. Enjoy a free afternoon, followed by a Kathakali dance performance in the evening. Overnight stay in Cochin.
Tour the historic city of Fort Cochin, the former capital of Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonizers. A walking tour includes the old Spice Market at Mattancherry, Jews street antique shops, The Synagogue, Dutch Palace, and St. Francis Church, where Vasco Da Gama was initially interred. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, with another overnight stay at the hotel.
Enjoy a leisurely day before being transferred to the airport for your onward journey.
For inquiries, please contact: mktg@discoveryfullcircle.com
Kerala's backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets formed by more than 900 km of waterways, and are a significant pull for tourists. According to a report by the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, the state witnessed over 10.96 million tourist arrivals in 2019, with the backwaters being a key attraction (Kerala Tourism Statistics).
The houseboat experience in Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a highlight, offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle and opportunities to savor traditional Kerala cuisine. The region's unique ecosystem, the paddy fields below sea level, and the living culture of the backwaters are less discussed but integral to the experience.
For more information on Kerala's backwaters and tourism, visit Kerala Tourism's official website.
Kerala's backwaters are not only about scenic beauty but also about the cultural vibrancy of the region. The Kathakali dance performances, showcasing stories from Indian epics through elaborate costumes and detailed gestures, are a must-see. Additionally, the Periyar National Park is a sanctuary for many endangered species and a tiger reserve, contributing to the state's biodiversity.
The spice plantations of Periyar are another lesser-known aspect, with Kerala being a significant contributor to the spice trade, a fact that shaped the region's history and economy. The state's spice exports contribute substantially to India's position as a prominent player in the global spice market.
For a deeper understanding of Kerala's spice trade history and its impact, you can explore resources provided by the Spices Board of India.
A journey through Kerala's backwaters is an enchanting experience that combines natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural richness. This 10-day tour is meticulously designed to offer a comprehensive exploration of this unique region, promising memories that will last a lifetime.
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