Destinations Covered: Cochin - Kumarakom - Alleppey - Sulthan Bathery - Nagarhole - Nileshwar
Cruising around Kerala is a holiday covering beaches, backwaters, relaxation, adventure, and so much more. God’ Own Country, Kerala, snuggled on the Malabar Coast is a slice of natural ecstasy. The tropical paradise has many treasures. Explore the multi-ethic heritage of Cochin. Kumarakom and Alleppey are two beautiful backwater destinations where incredible houseboat tours and other allures awaits. Sultan Bathery settled in the Western Ghats takes you to the misty mountains. Nagarhole offers the excitement of wildlife adventures. The beaches of Nileshwar offers pure bliss. Kerala’s unique pleasures added to the abundant natural harmony makes a memorable holiday.
Cruising around Kerala Tour starts with your arrival in Cochin International airport. The port city of Kerala is a unique experience. Cochin is a city with strong influences of the colonial times. The port opened for trade in the 14th century and has continued its legacy till date. Check-in to the hotel and refresh yourselves. Later, leave to enjoy the sights. The Chinese Fishing Nets dipping in the azure Arabian Sea at sunset is quite a marvellous spectacle. You can also try out the gastronomical pleasures or browse through the markets for knick-knacks.
Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Today, leave for a sightseeing tour of the multi-ethnic city. Visit Fort Cochin, dotted with a number of European style architecture. Next, check out the Jewish Synagogue and the Jew town. Proceed to Mattancherry Palace also known as Dutch Palace which has incredible treasures of heritage. Pay respects at the St. Francis Church and do pay a visit to Dutch Cemetery. The spectacular architecture is noteworthy. Do pay a visit to the Hill Palace and Bolghatty Palace. The sights of Cochin gives you proper lessons on history, culture and heritage. End the day with a walk through the Marine Drive Promenade or a boat ride on the Cochin backwaters.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
Today, leave for the backwater haven, Kumarakom. The less than 2-hour drive takes you through beautiful scenery. Set on the shores of Lake Vembanad, Kumarakom is blissful. On arrival, check into the hotel. Take rest for a while, after which leave for sightseeing. The Bay Island Driftwood Museum displays wooden sculptures. The Pathiramanal Island is a haven for rare migratory birds. You can also go for a boat ride on the lake.
Return to the hotel for a restful night.
The day starts with an early visit to the Kumarakom bird sanctuary. Home to several species sf avians as well as other wildlife, the sanctuary offers a thrilling wild exploration. If you are visiting in the right season, you can spot migratory species of birds who settle here in the winters. The main attractions include Cuckoo, Egret, Heron, Darter, Duck, Brahminy Kite, Moorhen, Cormorant and others. Migratory birds, especially Siberian Crane and Flycatcher come here in large numbers.
In the afternoon, leave for a houseboat tour. Perched on the backwaters, houseboats are a pleasant and luxurious way to travel. The age-old mode of transport, Kettuvallams have been revamped with 5-star luxuries and provide a beautiful experience. Delight in the comforts of the boat, relish traditional meals, and enjoy the natural beauty.
Overnight stay in the houseboat.
Arrive in Alleppey early in the morning. De-board and check into a hotel. Later, leave for sightseeing in the 'Venice of the East' as the city is lovingly named. Check out the 18th century iconic Travancore style castle, The Krishnapuram Palace. Pay a visit to the religious sites, the city is dotted with. Get to the Alleppey beach before sunset. As the sun sets, the waters are shaded in its myriad colours. It is a beautiful sight one you will cherish.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Today, proceed for the long drive from Alleppey to Sulthan Bathery. You will be on the road for almost 9 hours. Begin early, make halts to enjoy the beauty of God's Own Country. Waterfalls, lush paddy fields, quant villages and gems of the diverse topography makes your drive all the more exciting. In the evening, arrive into the town snuggled in the Northern Kerala hills. Sulthan Bathery is the largest town in the Wayanad district of Kerala state, India. Though it will be quite late to enjoy the sights, you can enjoy the aroma of coffee, spices and mountain mist.
Check-into the hotel for overnight stay.
Wake up to the fresh bliss of Sulthan Bathery. Today, leave for sightseeing. Edakkal Caves is the first stop of the day. The treasured site of Neolithic and Mesolithic rock inscriptions is one of the earliest centres of human habitation. Wayanad Heritage Museum, is next and an interesting exploration. Bathery Jumma Masjid, Soonori Church, etc. are other attractions to check out. Chethalayam falls is a scenic spot to visit.
Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Take a scenic drive through the Western Ghats to the sprawling Nagarhole National Park by the Kabini River. The 2-hour journey passes through scenic natural beauty. On arrival, stay within the wilderness camp. Freshen up and get started with your wildlife adventure. You will have the access to the picturesque Kabini River, 4x4 jeep safari, guided bird watching treks, white water rafting and wildlife photography lessons. Enjoy the sunset over the Kabini River.
Overnight stay in the jungle lodging.
Embark on game safari in Nagarhole National Park. The enchanting 247 square-mile park in Karnataka has an astonishing abundance of wildlife. You can spot large mammals such as tiger, leopard, wild elephant, Dhole (Indian wild dog), and Gaur (Indian bison). With approximately 250 species of birds you have many chances to spot one. Enjoy the lush greenery and the thrill to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Butterflies, reptiles and every inhabitant of the natural kingdom are found here. Both jeep safaris and elephant safaris are available for tourists.
After a day of fun, return to your resort.
Today, leave the hills to make your way to the beach. Nileshwar is a slice of paradise. A blend of health retreat, the unspoilt and tourist-free northern coast of Kerala, Nileshwar is a serene hideaway. An unrivalled beauty, it is a place to rejuvenate your body and spirit. On arrival, check-in at the hotel and get ready to hit the beach.
Overnight stay in the beach resort.
Enjoy tropical bliss for the day. The azure waters, soft sands and the warn sunshine concoct a pleasant vacation. Try out Ayurvedic massages, relish delicious platters of local cuisines, swim, sunbathe or just spend time beach bumming. The coastal escapade is perfect for a beach holiday.
Overnight stay in the resort.
Depart for Mangalore airport, Karnataka which is approx. 100 km from the shores of Nileshwar. Board a flight for your onward journey.
