Kerala Tours
Kerala Backwaters

The
backwaters of Kerala-meandering inland lakes networked by canals-stretche to
over 900kms. Boat trips across these tranquil stretches are an experience unique
to Kerala. Large Kettuvalloms (traditional country crafts over 60ft. in length)
have been converted into luxury houseboats for these cruises.
Alappuzha
64km from Kochi. Also known as the Venice of the East, Alppuzha is famous for
its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry.
A singular characterstic of this land is the region called Kuttanad. The Granary
of Kerala, Kuttanaad is one of the few regions in the world where farming is
done below sea level.
Kumarakom
Just 12km from Kottyam & 88 km from Kochi. This unique backwater destination
situated on the banks of the Vembanad lake is considered the gateway to the
backwaters of Kuttanad. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a favourite haunt of
migratory birds from across the world which makes it a renowed bird watching
centre. Kumarakom is also a centre for houseboat cruises.
Kochi
The commercial and industrial capital of Kerala has one of the finest natural
ahrbours in the world. This city is home to the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth
as well as numerous old churches and temples. Jew Town, the area around the
synagogue is a centre of spice trade and curio shops. Ancient mariners from
Arabia, China, Holland, Britain and Portugal have all left their mark on this
beautiful island city. Half the fun of visiting Kochi is moving around on the
local ferries. A conducted cruise through the winding waterways will take you
to several quaint spots.
Kerala Backwaters Tour
Duration : 10 Days / 09 Nights
Destinations Covered : Mumbai - Cochin - Periyar
- Kumarakom - Houseboat - Marari - Cochin
Day
01 : Arrive at Mumbai
On arrival youll be received by our representative and transferred to
hotel. Upon arrival at hotel the guests will be provided with the traditional
Indian welcome. Indian welcome consists of Aarti-Tikka and garlands. Overnight
at hotel.
Day 02 : Mumbai
In the morning, an hour of boat ride across Mumbai Harbour brings you to the
lush green Elephanta Island, where youll visit some of the huge and
intricately carved Elephanta caves dating back to the 8th century. In the
afternoon, you will go for a city tour of Mumbai. The tour includes 'Gateway
of India' overlooking the Harbour, the 'Towers of Silence', 'Marine Drive',
the 'Colaba Causeway' - the commercial heart of Bombay and the Dhobi Ghat,
the unique and colourful outdoor 'laundry'. Drive upto the Malabar Hill to
the lovely 'Hanging Gardens' and the Kamla Nehru Park from where you will
get a wonderful view of Mumbai and the Arabian Sea, spread out before you.
Also visit Mani Bhawan, a small museum dedicated to the life and works of
Mahatma Gandhi, and the bustling Crawford Market. Overnight at hotel
Day 03 : Mumbai - Cochin - Periyar
After breakfast youll be transferred to the airport to catch the flight
to Cochin. Upon arrival, you will be received by our representative and transferred
to the hotel. After lunch at the hotel well set out for Periyar. After
driving for 190 kms we arrive at our destination at you check in at the hotel.
Day 04 : Periyar - Kumarakom
The morning is filled with unbridled fun and exciting experiences with the
boat cruise on the shimmering waters of the lake inside the sanctuary . Herds
of wild elephants, Asiatic Deer, Black Bucks will please you to the point
of ecstacy. You may be lucky enough to be thrilled at the sight of Tigers
coming to shores of the lake for a drink. You return to the hotel only to
leave for the Spice Village soon after breakfast. A guided walk along the
village will introduce you to the various spices grown there. Thereafter drive
through the winding "Ghats" lined with prosperous tea plantations
and then arrive at the enchanting palm fringed countryside. A holiday in Coconut
Lagoon promises to be a unique experience. Relax at the waterfront, with the
occasional native row boat gliding silently by, and the air so calm, you'll
just feel like touching the sky with the tip of your finger. Overnight at
hotel
Day
05 : Kumarakom - Houseboat
After a leisurely morning at the Coconut Lagoon, with a cruise on the backwaters
in traditional country canoes called "vanjis" and glorious sights
of the local agricultural activities, is followed by a visit to the beautiful
bird sanctuary. Lunch at the hotel. In the afternoon, as you cruise along
the eyeful backwaters and the small lakes on traditional rice boats - "Ketuvallam"
and begin your journey through the picturesque backwaters and small lakes
you'll discover the way of life and activity of the local people. Overnight
on board.
Day 06 : Houseboat - Mararikulam
Your breakfast will be served on board and the boat will take you away to
Alleppey, and you disembark at Puthenagady Jetty. Thereafter you travel for
30 kms to arrive at Mararikulam - one of the picturesque fishing villages
that dot the lovely coast line of Kerala. This private, shallow beach is fringed
with unending lines of coconut palms. Rest of the day at leisure for own activities
and enjoy the facilities of the Resort. Overnight at hotel
Day 07 : Marari
The whole day will pass you by with uninhibited fun and leisure activities
of your own. Spend the night at the hotel.
Day 08 : Marari - Cochin
Early in the morning we'll head for the Queen of the Arabian Sea- Cochin or
Kochi- frilled with backwaters and rich with the old world charm. After arrival
you check in at your hotel, followed by a tour of this palm green commercial
captial of Kerala. Here, you'll invariably experience the rich mosaic of a
myriad influences- of the Arabs, the Chinese, the Dutch, the British and the
Portuguese. We'll take you to visit the Dutch Palace, the Jewish Synagogue,
the Church of St. Francis, the Bolghatty Palace and the famous Chinese fishing
nets. The afternoon awaits you with a cruise along the harbour. You will be
delighted by the picturesque scenery formed by tiny islands which dot the
harbour. An evening featuring the Kathakali dance performances and make up
demonstration will leave you spellbound. Dinner and overnight at hotel
Day
09 : Cochin - Mumbai
In the morning you'll be transferred to the airport to catch the flight to
Bombay. On arrival, our representative will transferred you to your hotel.
Throughout the day you are at leisure for own activities.
Day 10 : End of the Tour
Th tour culminates and we'll transfer you to the international airport to
catch your onward flight.
Kerala Backwaters Tour Reservation Form