Overview
Kerala is one of the most beautiful destinations in the southern part of India. Tranquil backwaters, lavish coastline, serene land and breathtaking landscapes are prime highlights of this tour. This tour takes you to scenic backwaters of Kerala majorly in Kumarakom and Alleppey which comprises serene stretches of lakes, canals and lagoons located parallel to the coast of the Arabian Sea.
Begin your sojourn from the Queen of the Arabia Sea – Cochin, having a mix of old-world and modern-age charm. This metropolis city is famous for its harbor, Chinese fishing nets and architecture influence of Anglo, Dutch and Portuguese. The tour then continues to beautiful Kumarakom Island located on the banks of famous Vembanad Lake. Kumarakom has spectacular lagoon to behold and the area is dotted with numerous traditional rice boats, canoes and coconut trees. Thereafter you can visit the Bird Sanctuary. This beautiful paradise has an abundance of flora and fauna, bringing the vast variety of avifauna species including kingfishers, water ibis, Indian Darter, herons, pin-tailed duck, osprey, wood beetles, larks, flycatchers, Siberian cranes, teal, water duck, owl, cuckoo, steppe eagle and a lot more.
Now it’s the time to cruise on Kerala backwater (Alleppey), which is the best way to experience Kerala’s amazing beauty and get a glimpse of rural life along the shores. You will board the traditional rice houseboat locally known as “Kettuvallam” – Kettu means to tie and Vallam means boat. This well-equipped private houseboat serves mouth watery Kerala style meals. As you cruise along, you will witness life in the backwater villages of Alleppey. You will travel down the small canals dotted with houses, paddy fields, coconut trees, market places, and temples. Watch local people engaging in a variety of daily activities from fishing to boat-making. From centuries, these houseboats are essential waterways connecting villages along the backwaters and transporting rice, spices and other goods.
Before you disembark your houseboat and head to Cochin for onward journey, soak in the beautiful scenery from your thatched-roof boat and relish the tranquility of this backwaters town.
Kerala backwaters are surely one of its kinds.
Highlights
- Visit Chinese Fishing Nets and enjoy Kathakali dance performance in Cochin
- Catch a glimpse of migratory birds in Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Experience mesmerizing backwater cruise in Alleppey
- Explore backwaters of Cochin
- Visit the popular markets in Cochin for shopping
Tour Details
01
Day 1 - Arrive Cochin
Our representative will receive you on arrival at the airport in Cochin and will take you to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy traditional Kathakali dance performance or a kaleidoscope of martial arts and traditional dance forms of Kerala. Overnight will be in Cochin.
02
Day 2 - In Cochin
After breakfast, begin the sightseeing tour of Cochin which includes The Santa Cruz Cathedral, Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry or “Dutch Palace” and also the famous St.Francis Church- the first European Church that was built in India. Later, head to the harbour where local fishermen use the old Chinese fishing nets introduced centuries ago. Overnight will be at Cochin.
03
Day 3 - Cochin to Kumarakom By road 50kms / 1hrs
After a leisurely breakfast, proceed to Kumarakom on the bank of Vembanad Lake to enjoy the serenity and greenery of the backwater villages. Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary situated on the border of backwaters and having a wide variety of birds. In the evening, either proceed to explore the nearest backwater village or relax at your hotel. Overnight will be at Kumarakom.
04
Day 4 – Kumarakom - Houseboat
After breakfast, check in to a traditional Kerala style houseboat and go on a leisurely backwater cruise along the lake. Sit back and relax as you cruise past ancient Chinese fishing nets, water lilies, lush paddy fields, coir villages, rustic homes, temples, coconut groves, canals and estuaries. All meals will be served on the boat freshly prepared by the crew. In the evening the boat will anchor by the lush paddy fields. Dinner is served on board. Enjoy the tranquility of the water around and spend night on the houseboat.
05
Day 5 – Alleppey to Cochin By road 50kms / 1hrs
Breakfast will be on board. Cruise through the backwaters watching children going to school and the village markets opening. Disembark the boat at the finishing point where your driver will be waiting for you to drive to Cochin and as per the flight timings you will be transferred to the airport to take flight back home with sweet memories of the tour. TOUR ENDS!