Cochin

Cochin, also known as Kochi, is a vibrant city on the southwest coast of India in the state of Kerala. It’s renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes

Geography and Climate

• Location: Situated on the Arabian Sea coast, Cochin is part of the Ernakulam district of Kerala.
• Climate: The city experiences a tropical climate with high humidity. The monsoon season runs from June to September, bringing heavy rainfall. The weather is generally warm throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).

History and Culture

• Colonial Heritage: Cochin has a deep historical significance due to its status as a major trading port. It was a key hub for the spice trade, drawing traders from around the world. The city has a rich colonial history, having been influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial powers.
• Historical Sites: Some notable landmarks include the Fort Kochi area, which features colonial architecture, the St. Francis Church (India’s oldest European church), and the Paradesi Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth.
• Cultural Diversity: The city is a melting pot of cultures, with a blend of Indian, European, and Middle Eastern influences. This is reflected in its festivals, cuisine, and architecture.

Munnar

Location and Overview: Munnar is a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, at an elevation of about 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level. It’s renowned for its lush tea plantations, cool climate, and scenic beauty.

Natural Attractions:

• Tea Gardens: Munnar’s landscape is dominated by expansive tea plantations. The rolling hills covered in green tea bushes create stunning vistas and offer opportunities to learn about tea cultivation and production.
• Eravikulam National Park: This park is famous for its biodiversity, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. It features scenic trails and the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.
• Mattupetty Dam: A reservoir surrounded by hills and lush forests, Mattupetty is ideal for boating and picnicking, offering serene views and cool breezes.
• Attukal Waterfalls: Nestled in a dense forest, these cascading waterfalls are a popular spot for nature lovers and offer a refreshing escape into nature.

Climate: Munnar enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). It experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which enhances the lushness of its landscapes.

Thekkady

Location and Overview: Thekkady is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Munnar. It is known for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and its rich biodiversity. Thekkady lies at an altitude of around 1,200 meters (3,900 feet) and is surrounded by dense forests and spice plantations.

Natural Attractions:

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various bird species. A boat ride on Periyar Lake, which is located within the sanctuary, offers the chance to spot wildlife coming to the water's edge.
• Spice Plantations: Thekkady is famous for its spice plantations. Visitors can tour these plantations to see how spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon are cultivated.
• Bamboo Rafting: A unique experience offered in the Periyar Sanctuary, where visitors can navigate the lake on bamboo rafts while enjoying the natural surroundings.

Climate: Thekkady has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It’s relatively cooler than the surrounding lowlands and experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.

Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Location and Overview: Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a charming town located on the Arabian Sea coast in Kerala. It’s famous for its intricate network of backwaters, houseboats, and tranquil landscapes.

Natural Attractions:

• Backwaters: Alleppey is renowned for its picturesque backwaters, a network of lagoons, lakes, and canals. Houseboat cruises offer a serene way to experience this unique ecosystem and observe rural life along the waterways.
• Alleppey Beach: A popular destination for relaxation, the beach features a long sandy stretch, a historic lighthouse, and a calm, scenic environment.
• Kuttanadu: Known as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala," this region is characterized by its lush paddy fields and traditional agricultural practices, offering a glimpse into rural life.

Climate: Alleppey has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). It experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, contributing to its lush green landscapes.

Kovalam

Location and Overview: Kovalam is a renowned beach destination located on the Arabian Sea coast, approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) from the city of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. It's known for its crescent-shaped beaches and vibrant tourism scene.

Natural Attractions:

• Lighthouse Beach: The most famous of Kovalam’s beaches, Lighthouse Beach is known for its scenic beauty, with the iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse offering panoramic views of the coastline.
• Hawa Beach: Also known as Eve’s Beach, Hawa Beach is popular for its serene atmosphere and is ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
• Samudra Beach: This less crowded beach offers a more tranquil environment and is perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Climate: Kovalam has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). It experiences high humidity and a significant amount of rainfall during the monsoon season.

Day 01: Cochin Arrival   

Our friendly representative welcomes you at Cochin Airport or Railway Station and transfer to the hotel. Check into hotel/resort. Sightseeing of Cochin, visit The Dutch Palace, The Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church the oldest European church in India, Chinese fishing nets, Santa Cruz Basilica etc, and also an array of shops with antiques, fabrics & jewellery. Back to the hotel and overnight stay.

Day 02: Cochin – Munnar

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Munnar, which is called as “Nature Lover’s Paradise” and is at 1800mts above the sea level. On the way to Munnar visit Cheyyappara water falls. “Check into hotel / resort. Overnight at Munnar.

Day 03: Munnar

After breakfast proceed for Munnar sightseeing. Visit Eravikulam National Park in the morning. In the afternoon visit Mattupetty Dam/Kundala dam for boating, Eco point, tata tea museum. Evening at leisure. Overnight at Munnar.

Day 04: Munnar – Thekkady  

After breakfast check out from the hotel / resort and proceed to Thekkady. Check into hotel / resort. Sightseeing of Thekkady: Go for Plantation Tour, Evening boat ride to National Park. Evening free for shopping. Overnight at Thekkady.

Day 05: Thekkady – Alleppey

After breakfast, Checkout from the hotel and proceed to Alleppey which has an immense natural beauty, also known as the “Venice of the East”. It is famous for the backwaters, boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir products. Check into your Hotel / Houseboat and enjoy the cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey. Overnight stays at the hotel / houseboat.

Day 06: Alleppey – Kovalam  

After breakfast, Check out from the houseboat and proceed to Kovalam. Check into resort / hotel. Day free to relax and enjoy on beach. Overnight stay at Kovalam.

Day 07: Kovalam

After breakfast proceed for Trivandrum sightseeing. Visit Sree Padmanabha Swami Temple, art gallery & museum. Overnight at Kovalam.

Day 08: Kovalam – Trivandrum / Cochin

After breakfast proceed to airport /railway station and depart.