Gods Own Country 'Kerala'

Day 01:Arrival in Kochi
In order to display best of Kerala, we present a tour which incorporates all shades of this region Paul Mc Cartney described as  ‘God’s Own Country’.

It is the land of sun, sand and spices. The region is an interesting sight for all lovers of nature with an abundance of cultural splendour.

At Kochi International Airport, you will be welcomed by our GeTS Holidays representative in a traditional way with garlands.

Kochi, popularly called as the ‘Queen of Arabian Sea’ is full of character. Kochi, the city of ancient and modern charm has so much to offer. It is best described as an inter-connected series of small islands which provide a unique cultural identity.

In the evening, we present a delicious welcome Kerala dinner where you get to meet your fellow travelers.

Day 02: In Kochi
We begin the tour of the city with a visit to Fort Cochin.

Vasco da Gama, discovered the sea route from Europe to India. He landed at Calicut (later renamed Kozhikode) in 1498. He was followed by Pedro Álvares Cabraland Afonso de Albuquerque. They built a fort at Kochi with permission from the Raja of Cochin.

In 1506, within the fort, Francisco de Almeida, the Portuguese viceroy, was allowed, to build a church with a wooden structure, which was dedicated to St. Bartholomew. This church, ‘St. Frances Church’ is the oldest European church in India. It has great historical significance as it has been a mute witness to the European colonial struggle in the Indian sub-continent. Vasco da Gama, died in Kochi in 1524. His body was originally buried in this church, but after fourteen years his remains were removed to Lis bon.

Other highlights of the city include the Mattancherry or Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue. The Mattancherry was constructed by the Portugese for the then king of Cochin and later in 1663 was renovated and enlarged by the Dutch.  It is a typical ruler's building in old Kerala style. It contains exquiste wooden ceilings and wall paintings with scenes from the classical Indian epic, the Ramayana. The Synagogue was built in 1568, in the Jewish quarter of Mattancherry. Although the Portugese destroyed the building in 1662, the Dutch rebuilt it two years later.

Enjoy the evening with a boat ride along with palm fringed beaches and cantilevered Chinese fishing nets. The Chinese fisher-nets are said to exist here since the 13th century introduced by Chinese traders. These consist of heavy wooden constructions with nets hanging down.

Later in the evening, we will present a Kathakali concert which is a fascinating dance form with a story telling narrative. It takes the dancers hours long to get dressed and adorn themselves with make up and heavy costumes to perform the dance.

Day 3:Kochi - Munnar (Sightseeing Munnar)

Munnar, the scenic hill station is known for its beauty, tranquility and favorable climate throughout the year. It is also renowned for its tea plantations.

A visit to the tea plantations is planned where you will be able to converse with the workers and experience how they grow and pick the best of the tea leaves. A visit to the tea factory next day will expose you to processes of tea leaves being converted to the tea. You could also buy some fresh tea to take back home.

Next head to Rajamalai, to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere at Anamudi, the highest peak of Kerala and observe the rare species of Nilgiri Thars (stocky goats with short, coarse fur and a bristly mane). After returning from Rajamalai we would take you boating at Mattupetty and return henceforth to the hotel for night stay.   

Day 04: Munnar - Periyar

After a nice breakfast, we depart for Periyar which is another verdant region of pristine Kerala. On the way yould be stopping at a local tea factory to experience the process of tea making. On arrival at Periyar you will be transferred to a jungle resort close to Periyar National Park, one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries of India. It covers 777sq km and is a well- known tiger reserve.   In the afternoon enjoy a safari in the jungle along with expert naturalists and guides taking you through the safest routes inside the park.

Day 05: At Periyar

On day 5, a morning trek to explore the wilderness of Periyar Park is scheduled. The Park is covered with tropical rainforests where you will see various wild animals like elephants, sambar, gaur, macaques, nilgiri, langur and of course leopards and tigers which are the main attractions of the park.
This is followed by a mesmerizing boat cruise in the Periyar Lake.  During summers as the water level falls the wild species including herds of elephants come down to Periyar Lake and thus it is one of the best time to visit the park.  You may spot elephants on the banks of rivers.

Late in the afternoon, a visit to Periyar’s famed spice plantations is planned to see blooming cardamom, cinnamom, pepper and other spices in the gardens.  With the help of our English Speaking Guide you can interact with the farmers to learn more about these spices here.  On your way back to the resort halt for a while at the local market and pick some spices to be taken back home.

Day 06: Alleppey - Kumarakom

After breakfast guests will then prepare for a drive to Kumarakom. A perfect destination for holiday makers, Kumarakom is blessed with unsurpassable naturally bounty.  Later go for a visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary which is home to various species of birds such as waterfowl, cuckoo, egret, ducks, Siberian Crane and more.  Located on the banks of picturesque Vembanad Lake, the park is very beautiful. 
While in Kumarakom make sure you don’t miss out on fresh toddy (local brew) and fresh sea food.
Return to the resort by evening and guests could opt for some relaxation with detoxicating ayurvedic massages by the side of azure waters.

Day 07: Kumarakom to Alleppey

Morning after breakfast just relax and enjoy the ayurvedic massages in the Resort. By early afternoon, we will embark a traditional houseboat.  The houseboat will cruise through tropical countryside amidst tranquilizing backwaters and palm trees.  The panorama surrounding the backwaters is further enhanced with the presence of rural settlements co-existing very peacefully.  You can stop at various places near the tiny hamlets of the natives to interact with them and to know more about their culture and eco- friendly ways of existence.

The flocks of ducks swimming around and the rays of tropical sun brightening the deck of the boats are all enduring pictures part of your backwater tour of Kerala.  The crew and chef will be at your disposal and will look after all your requirements.  Experience true character of Kerala and relish your lunch on banana leaf in a traditional and healthy way.  Stop en-route to buy fish and sea food from local villagers.  Stay overnight on the houseboat. 
In the morning your houseboat would sail to Alleppy. Breakfast would be served on the way. 

Day 08: Alleppey - Kochi

Guests will then pack their luggage and board the luxury tempo traveler which will drive them back to Kochi.  In Kochi our GeTS Holidays representative will escort you to the airport and will gracefully hand over some beauteous souvenirs which will sing the saga of a great vacation till eternity.  Thus you will board the flight with most cheerful and tranquilizing memories of your South India tour.

The vehicle used for your trip is a the tempo traveler which is a highly sophisticated vehicle installed with all comforts such as air conditioning and LCD screen playing Indian movies with English subtitles.