Tranquil Trails of Kerala

Days
8
Tour Price
From $ 0
Per person using double sharing
Meal Plan
7 B | 1 L | 1 D
Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner Unless Specified)
Destinations Covered
Kochi (2) | Munnar (1) | Thekkady (2) | Kumarakom (1) | Houseboat (1)

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of Kerala with our tour covering Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, and a memorable stay in a traditional houseboat. It begins in the vibrant city of Kochi, where history and culture seamlessly blend. Explore the charming streets of Fort Kochi, adorned with colonial architecture and bustling markets. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage as you visit iconic landmarks like the Mattancherry Palace and the Chinese Fishing Nets. Next, venture into the breathtaking hill station of Munnar, nestled amidst lush tea plantations and mist-covered mountains, this picturesque town offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Be mesmerized by cascading waterfalls, explore sprawling tea gardens, and indulge in aromatic tea-tasting sessions that will leave your senses rejuvenated. Continuing your journey to Thekkady, get ready to encounter wildlife in its natural habitat at Periyar National Park. Embark on an exciting jungle safari where you may spot elephants, tigers, deer, and an array of unique bird species. Take a calming boat ride on Periyar Lake as you soak up the serene ambience surrounded by dense forests. Moving forward to Kumarakom - a charming village nestled along Vembanad Lake - immerse yourself in Kerala's backwaters paradise. Experience tranquillity as you navigate through narrow canals flanked by coconut trees on a traditional houseboat. Witness stunning sunsets over calm waters and savour delicious local cuisine prepared onboard for an unforgettable dining experience. Throughout this incredible journey through Kerala's diverse landscapes and cultural gems, be prepared to create lasting memories that will stay etched in your heart forever.

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Highlights

Explore the historic sites of Fort Kochi, the enchanting 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'.

Immerse yourself in Kerala's vibrant culture by attending Kathakali dance performances or exploring local markets to shop for handicrafts and spices.

Enjoy scenic drives throughout the tour as you pass through picturesque landscapes, winding roads amidst tea plantations, and rolling hills.

Engage yourself in the stunning beauty of Munnar with its lush tea plantations and cascading waterfalls.

Embark on a thrilling boat safari at Periyar National Park where you have a chance to spot animals in their natural habitat and various bird species. Walk through the beautiful spice gardens to get to know about the Indian spices.

Embark on a traditional houseboat and sail through the charming villages and lush green coconut trees, enjoying authentic local specialities as the sun sets.

ITINERARY

Day-By-Day

Map View
View Full Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Kochi (Cochin) (By International Flight)

On arrival at Cochin International Airport, following customs, immigration formalities and baggage…

Overnight stay in Kochi (Cochin)
Casino Hotel – 3* Comfort, Holiday Inn – 4* Deluxe, Trident Kochi – 5* Luxury
Meals: (No meals included)

Day 2

Explore the sights of Kochi (Cochin)

This morning you discover the sights of Fort Kochi with your English-speaking guide, starting from the Jewish…

Overnight stay in Kochi (Cochin)
Casino Hotel – 3* Comfort, Holiday Inn – 4* Deluxe, Trident Kochi – 5* Luxury
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Day 3

Travel to Munnar

After enjoying a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel, it's time to check-out and continue your scenic journey…

Overnight stay in Munnar.
Abad Copper Castle – 3* Comfort, The Tall Trees Resort – 4* Deluxe, and Fragrant Nature Hotel & Spa – 5* Luxury.
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Day 4

Travel to Thekkady (Periyar)

Embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), a destination renowned for its untouched natural…

Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Abad Green Forest– 3* Comfort, Greenwoods Resort– 4* Deluxe, and Cardamom County by Xandari – 5* Luxury.
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Day 5

Thekkady (Periyar)

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, get ready for an immersive experience in the world of spices…

Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Abad Green Forest – 3* Comfort, Greenwoods Resort – 4* Deluxe, and Cardamom County by Xandari – 5* Luxury.
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Optional Experience Available

Day 6

Travel to Kumarakom

After checking out, travel to Kumarakom (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), a beautiful destination known for its thriving…

Timings: Depends on spa time slot availability.
Inclusions
60 minutes of full-body Ayurveda massage in the in-house spa of your hotel.
Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
Abad Whispering Palms – 3* Comfort, Backwater Ripples – 4* Deluxe, The Zuri Kumarakom – 5* Luxury.
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Day 7

Backwaters of Kerala

After a leisurely breakfast, you will check out and board your private houseboat (standard check-in time is 1400 hrs.)…

Overnight stay in Houseboat.
Athira Houseboat – 3* Comfort, Houseboat – 4* Deluxe, and Xandari Houseboat – 5* Luxury.
Meals: (Lunch and dinner in the houseboat’s designated area)

Day 8

Farewell to India

The tour concludes with a delightful breakfast in your houseboat in Kumarakom, followed by a direct transfer…

Overnight stay in Riwang Residency or similar.
Meals: Breakfast in the houseboat’s designated area.

Day 1

Welcome to Kochi (Cochin) (By International Flight)

On arrival at Cochin International Airport, following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, as you exit the arrival terminal building, you will be welcomed by India Tours & Travels executive holding a placard in your name to greet you. Thereafter you will be assisted with a transfer to your hotel and check-in.
Kochi or Cochin is a marine port city on India's southwest coast with a trading history dating back at least six centuries. The city is known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," and it serves as Kerala's financial, industrial, and commercial centre.

Overnight stay in Kochi (Cochin)
Casino Hotel – 3* Comfort, Holiday Inn – 4* Deluxe, Trident Kochi – 5* Luxury
Meals: (No meals included)

Optional Experience : Test

Desc

Starts at 10 (Approximately)
Ends at 11 (Approximately)

Day 2

Explore the sights of Kochi (Cochin)

This morning you discover the sights of Fort Kochi with your English-speaking guide, starting from the Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Jewish holidays) is not only the oldest operational synagogue in Kochi but also in the Nations of the Commonwealth.The synagogue contains four buildings and boasts rare antiquities such as exquisite chandeliers, a clock tower, a brass-plated pulpit, Chinese hand-painted tiles, and so on. Mattancherry Palace, also renowned as the Dutch Palace, represents one of the greatest instances of Kerala-styled architecture mixed with colonial influences. This two-story mansion boasts a magnificent mural collection. St. Francis Church, a centuries-old church in Fort Kochi, was initially built entirely of wood and then rebuilt in natural stone. Vasco Da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, was buried here in 1524 until his belongings were transported to Lisbon, Portugal. In the late afternoon, wander along the beach to see the famous and picturesque Chinese fishing nets, one of Kerala's most important cultural symbols, which are operated by four to six fishermen, witnessing this stunning operation is a riveting experience in and of itself. Evening, enjoy a Kathakali Dance Performance, a 2000-year- old Kerala native classical dance form with intricately coloured make-up, costumes, and face masks. It is a "story play" type of art based on stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.

Overnight stay in Kochi (Cochin)
Casino Hotel – 3* Comfort, Holiday Inn – 4* Deluxe, Trident Kochi – 5* Luxury
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Day 3

Travel to Munnar

After enjoying a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel, it's time to check-out and continue your scenic journey to the beautiful town of Munnar (Approx. 04 to 05 hrs. drive). As you arrive in Munnar, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views of rolling hills and vibrant green landscapes. Once you have checked in at your hotel, freshened up and settled in, get ready for an afternoon filled with exploration and discovery visiting a serene tea estate nestled amidst the luscious hills. As you walk through the sprawling tea gardens, inhale the refreshing aroma of tea leaves and marvel at the picturesque surroundings. Next, immerse yourself in the world of tea production as you visit the Lockhart Tea processing factory and museum (closed on Monday). Here, you will have the opportunity to learn about every step involved in turning fresh tea leaves into that perfect cup of brewed goodness. From withering to rolling, fermentation to drying, and sorting to packaging – witness it all as knowledgeable guides take you through each stage of this intricate process. The museum is not just educational but also showcases antique machinery and equipment that were used in traditional tea production methods. You can marvel at these artefacts and gain an understanding of how technology has evolved over time. The rest of your day will be at leisure for your own activities.

Day 4

Travel to Thekkady (Periyar)

Embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), a destination renowned for its untouched natural beauty and a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The journey will be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes that surround you. Upon reaching Thekkady, check-in at your hotel and take some time to settle in. The rest of the day is yours to explore this picturesque area at your own pace or indulge in the luxurious amenities provided by your hotel. Unwind by taking a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or pamper yourself with rejuvenating spa treatments. Alternatively, you can embark on leisurely walks around town, immersing yourself in the peaceful ambience of this charming destination. For those interested in shopping, don't miss the chance to visit local markets where you can find an array of spices and handicrafts that make for perfect souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and fragrant aromas as you browse through these unique offerings. Whether you choose to relax at your hotel or venture out into town, make the most of your time in Thekkady as you prepare for an unforgettable experience amidst nature's splendour tomorrow.

Day 5

Thekkady (Periyar)

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, get ready for an immersive experience in the world of spices. Meet your local English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby, and together, embark on a walk through the enchanting spice gardens. These gardens are meticulously arranged into terrace farms, with the symmetrical beauty occasionally interrupted by a babbling brook. Kerala has a rich history in the spice trade, dating back thousands of years, and this region is home to a variety of aromatic spices. As you stroll through the spice gardens, you will encounter cinnamon trees, clove plants, nutmeg trees, ginger plants, turmeric plants, and curry leaf trees. Learn about their cultivation methods and medicinal properties from your knowledgeable guide. Next on the itinerary is a visit to Kumily market. This bustling local market offers an authentic experience where you can witness locals buying and selling freshly harvested spices. Take this opportunity to purchase some fragrant spices as souvenirs or to enhance your culinary creations back home. In the afternoon, get ready for an exciting bamboo rafting adventure. This unique activity allows you to get up close and personal with wildlife while floating along tranquil riversides and amidst lush forests. Your safety is paramount during this experience as you will be accompanied by expert guides and armed forest guards. Enjoy observing various species of birds and animals that inhabit these pristine surroundings as they go about their daily routines. Immerse yourself in the serene ambience of nature as you glide along on the bamboo raft. After an eventful day exploring spice gardens and experiencing bamboo rafting adventures, return to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Abad Green Forest – 3* Comfort, Greenwoods Resort – 4* Deluxe, and Cardamom County by Xandari – 5* Luxury.
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)

Day 6

Travel to Kumarakom

After checking out, travel to Kumarakom (Approx. 03 to 04 hrs. drive), a beautiful destination known for its thriving mangrove swamps, lush paddy fields, hills, rubber plantations, and towering coconut trees. Located in the Kottayam region of Kerala, Kumarakom is renowned for its scenic backwater tracts and has been recognized by National Geographic as one of the top places in the world to visit. Upon arrival in Kumarakom, check-in at your hotel and spend the rest of your day at leisure, exploring the local area or simply unwinding in the serene atmosphere. Take advantage of this opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's beauty and bask in the tranquillity that Kumarakom has to offer.

Optional Experience : Full-body Ayurveda massage

Indulge in a rejuvenating experience by enjoying a full-body Ayurveda massage at your hotel's in-house spa. Ayurveda is an ancient healing system that focuses on the holistic well- being of the body and mind. The Ayurvedic massage utilizes herbal oils and therapeutic techniques to promote relaxation, relieve stress, and enhance overall wellness. The skilled therapists will tailor the massage to your specific needs, targeting areas of tension and providing deep relaxation. Allow yourself to be pampered as you unwind and let go of any remaining stress or fatigue from your travels. The Ayurvedic massage will not only leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized but also help balance your energy levels and promote a sense of harmony within.

Starts at 1800 hrs. (Approximately)
Ends at 2130 hrs. (Approximately)

Day 7

Backwaters of Kerala

After a leisurely breakfast, you will check out and board your private houseboat (standard check-in time is 1400 hrs.), which has been converted into a traditional Kettuvallam rice barge. This unique experience will take you on a tranquil journey through Kerala's enchanting backwaters. As you cruise along the backwaters, you will be treated to breathtaking views of coconut-fringed shores, verdant rice fields, and charming man-made islands. The serene ambience and picturesque scenery will provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. Your private houseboat offers a blend of luxury and traditional charm. Enjoy cosy accommodations equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Indulge in delightful meals prepared onboard by skilled chefs who specialize in local cuisine. This houseboat vacation promises to be truly memorable as it allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Kerala's backwaters while enjoying the comfort and hospitality of your own private retreat. It is sure to be one of the highlights of your vacation, offering an opportunity to unwind and soak in the serenity amidst stunning natural surroundings.

Overnight stay in Houseboat.
Athira Houseboat – 3* Comfort, Houseboat – 4* Deluxe, and Xandari Houseboat – 5* Luxury.
Meals: (Lunch and dinner in the houseboat’s designated area)

Day 8

Farewell to India

The tour concludes with a delightful breakfast in your houseboat in Kumarakom, followed by a direct transfer to Cochin (Kochi) International or Domestic Airport (Approx. 02 to 03 hrs. drive) for your onward flight.

Overnight stay in Riwang Residency or similar.
Meals: Breakfast in the houseboat’s designated area.

What’s Included

06 nights of hotel accommodation and 01-night of houseboat accommodation.

09 Meals as specified – 07 Breakfasts, 01 Lunch and 01 Dinner.

Sightseeing with an English-speaking local guide in Kochi, Munnar and Thekkady.

Air-conditioned chauffeur-driven private vehicle as per the group strength.

Availability of Mineral water bottles, disposable face masks, hand sanitisers, and wet wipes in the vehicle throughout the tour.

Return airport transfers with meet and assist.

All Monument entrances and rides as per the itinerary.

What’s not Included

Any International flights.

Visa fees, Travel Insurance, any medical tests, and quarantine (if needed).

Except 09 Meals - 07 Breakfasts, 01 Lunch and 01 Dinner.

Alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages not stated in the itinerary.

Any optional tours, pre- or post-occupancy, early check-in, and late check-out.

Any additional transfers.

Personal Expenses, any sort of tips/gratuities.

Anything which is mentioned not mentioned in the “What’s Included section.”

How to Get Tourist Visa
- A Complete Guide

Yes, India has opened all categories of tourist visa and welcoming international travelers and allows visitors from around 156 eligible countries to apply for a tourist e-Visa. Also, from March 27 th , 2022, India has resumed regular international flights.

One month Tourist Visa
Duration: One Month (30 Days).
Entries: Double Entry, non-extendable and non-convertible
The 01-month tourist visa must be applied for online a minimum 4 days in advance
One year Tourist Visa
Duration: One year (365 Days) from the date of grant of Electronic Travel
Authorization (ETA).
Entries: Multiple
The 01-year tourist visa must be applied 120 days in advance from proposed date of
travel.
Five years Tourist Visa
Duration: Five years from the date of grant of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Stay duration: Continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 90 days for countries except Canada, Japan, UK and USA. For Canada, Japan, UK and USA, continuous stay during each visit shall not be exceed 180 days.
Entries: Multiple
The 05-year tourist visa must be applied 120 days in advance from proposed date of travel.

Fill and submit your e-Visa application on
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/Registration.
This application form is for those foreign tourists who are applying for e-visa from outside India.
You need fill e-Visa application for each person separately as each form is for 01 (One) person only.
Fill the information exactly in the manner asked in the form, especially the Names, Date of birth and Address.

You are recommended to verify / double check the information filled before submitting as modification are not allowed once the application form is submitted. Incase if anyone is not ready to submit the application form, then you can click on “Save and Temporarily Exit” and you can complete it later by clicking “Complete Partially Filled Application Form”.
Make a note of Application ID (for further communication) which will be generated automatically by the system.
After filling out all the information, in the end you will be asked to upload a Photo of the applicant as per the below requirements. (Application is liable to get rejected, if the uploaded photograph is not clear or not as per the below specifications mentioned below).
*Photo requirements*
Format JPEG
Size: Minimum 10 KB and Maximum 01 MB
The minimum dimensions are 350 pixels (width) and 350 pixels (height).
It should be recent front facing photograph with full face and eyes open with a white background. No shadows should be on the face or in the background. Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin.
*Note*: Do not crop the passport Image to use it as your recent photograph After successfully uploading your photograph, you would need to Click on “Confirm” and then you will be asked to pay the e-Visa Fees which you can pay by the Credit card / Debit card and payment wallets.
Once you make the payment, you will receive a confirmation of submission of your application on the email id provided by you while filling up the application form. Your e-Visa application may take 72 hours or more for processing. You will be intimated about your Visa status (Granted or Rejected) on your email id provided by you in the e-Visa application.

You may check the status of your e-Visa application by clicking 'Check your Visa Status' on https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

Usually it takes 02 – 03 weeks to get your application processed but there is no exact timeline provided by the Government of India Officials.

The tourist e-visa (30 Days) fee is just only 30 USD per person which is not included in the price mentioned price on this website.

Applicant can schedule the appointment as per his/ her convenience with the concerned Indian Mission.

Each applicant to schedule a separate appointment with the Indian Mission

Process for filling up online application form:
Applicant shall access the Visa Application system online through the following link: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in

Applicant visits the above-mentioned web link and selects the Indian Mission from where he intends to apply for the Visa from the tab Select Mission.

Applicant fills the application on-line as per the forms standardized by the Ministry.

After filling the form and submitting it, the system shall automatically generate an Application Id. Applicants are requested to keep this Application Id for further
communications with the concerned Indian Mission.

System will automatically ask the Applicant for the following confirmation: Select 'Yes'; if the applicant want to seek appointment and make payment online or 'No' if the applicant just want to print the submitted application form.

If the applicant response is ‘No’ then it is requested by the applicant to take the printout of the submitted online application form and approach the concerned Indian Mission for submission of the online form along with supporting documents.

If the response from applicant is 'Yes' then the system automatically takes the link to perform the following:

Selection of Date and Time of appointment at the concerned Indian Mission

Calculation of Visa fee, service charge, VAT etc. as applicable according to the Visa type

e-Payment * using service providers payment system

In case the facility of Appointment Scheduling and e-Payment is not available for the concerned Indian mission, then applicant has to take the printout of the online
application form and visit the concerned Indian Mission to submit the same along with supporting documents and make the payment.

*The e-payment facility is not available for all the Indian Missions abroad. Wherever they said facility is not available, it is requested to kindly submit the application
submission fees to either the out sourcing agency or to the Mission directly along with the supporting documents.

Online application Form
This application form is meant for those foreigners who are applying for visa from outside India

Each online application form is meant for one person only. Separate application has to be filed for each applicant.

Furnish information exactly in the manner asked for in the forms, especially the names, address and date of birth.

Applicants are required to verify the application details before submitting the online application. They have an option to save the online application form, in case it is not to be submitted.

Once the online application form is submitted by the applicant, then further modifications are not allowed. Hence applicants are requested to check and validate
the details before submitting the online application form.

Applicants are requested to keep the Application Id (generated automatically after the submission of online form) for further communications.

Photo Requirements

Online India Visa Application allows the Applicant to upload a digital photograph of self to complete the regular visa application.

The digital photograph to be uploaded along with the Visa application should meet the following requirements:
Format JPEG
Size: Minimum 10 KB and Maximum 300 KB
The height and width of the Photo must be equal.
Photo should present Full face, front view, eyes open.
Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin.
Background should be plain light coloured or white background.
No shadows on the face or on the background.
Without borders.
Make sure that photo presents full head from top of hair to bottom of chin. Head should measure 1 inch to 1-3/8 inches (25mm to 35mm). Make sure eye height is
between 1-1/8 inches to 1-3.

Usually it takes 02 – 03 weeks to get your application processed but there is no exact timeline provided by the Government of India Officials.

It varies from country to Country.

Essential Travel tips

Some of the Essential Travel Tips and Suggestions, you should know before planning your trip.

All foreign nationals entering India are required to possess a valid international travel document in the form of a national passport with a valid visa obtained from an Indian Mission or Post abroad.

Original, signed passport has to be valid for 6 months from day of application, and with at least two blank visa pages for Indian visa stamps. Amendment pages are not acceptable for visa stamps. Tourist visas are eligible up to 6 months (180 days).Original, signed passport has to be valid for 6 months from day of application, and with at least two blank visa pages for Indian visa stamps. Amendment pages are not acceptable for visa stamps. Tourist visas are eligible up to 6 months (180 days).

Plan and obtain necessary immunizations and malaria prophylaxis. Travellers should get properly inoculated against Yellow Fever if coming through infected regions. If, planning for a long trip, consider having a complete pre-departure health check-up.

[Only single-entry Tourist Visa-on-Arrival valid up to 30 days is granted; it shall be non- extendable and non-convertible. Tourist Visa-On-Arrival (TVOA) may be allowed for a maximum of two times in a calendar year to a foreigner with a minimum gap of two months between two visits.]

The Foreigner (Protected Areas) Act requires foreigners to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit certain areas in India (mainly in the North-East). This requirement is in addition to getting an Indian visa. A PAP is normally issued for 10 days and has an option of a 7-day extension. The PAP is issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Also, different authorities of the concerned Indian states, FRROs, and Indian missions abroad can also issue such permit. Normally, your travel agent should be able to obtain the PAP for you.

Have photocopies of all the important documents like passport, visas, travel insurance and driving license et cetera, just in case it is lost.

Carry mosquito repellents or nets with you.

It is a good idea to obtain some local currency at the exchange currency bank once you reach the arrival lounge where our representative shall meet and greet you. This would help meet few immediate expenses. [Exchange rate at the airport is not good so it’s recommended to change small amount there.] Exchange money only through authorized banks or moneychangers. Insist on Encashment Certificate while exchanging money. These certificates will be required to reconvert the unused money on departure from India.

While some banks and 5-star hotels will change Travellers’ Cheques, the process is very time consuming, and commissions can be high (up to 10%) and it is difficult to change Travellers’ Cheques on weekends and public holidays. The easiest cheques to change are Thomas Cook or American Express in USD. All banks in India function from Monday to Friday. There are many ATMs from which one can withdraw cash 24x7.

The hotel check-in time in India varies between 12-noon and 14:00 hrs. and the check-out time: 12-noon.

The electrical supply is 220/240V and 50Hz. Carry the appropriate “round pin” electric connectors like European ones.

Please DO NOT drink tap water, even in hotels or restaurants as it usually contains high levels of minerals than the water you are used to drinking in your own country. It is fine for a local to drink water from a tap as their bodies are conditioned to it, but for everyone else we highly recommend you always drink bottled water. Bottled water is found everywhere and is quite cheap.

As a general guideline, clothing should be lightweight, loose fitting, hard-wearing and easily washed. In India’s hot summer months, cotton clothing is much more comfortable than man-made materials like nylon. You should bear in mind that India has conservative attitudes towards dress, particularly in remote areas. Women, and also to a certain extent men, will find that the way they dress will often determine the degree of respect they receive from both men and women. It is advisable to keep legs, shoulders and upper arms covered, and we recommend that you bring appropriate clothing for this purpose.

Do not encourage beggars and street urchins by giving them money or other articles. In most of the cases they beg, as they have become habitual of easy money.

Don't ever enter a temple, tomb, dargah or gurudwara with shoes on. Leather articles are forbidden to be carried in Hindu and Jain temples. Do not wear black clothes while visiting a Jain temple. Dress conservatively at a place of worship. In a gurudwara or dargah, one should cover his/her head with a cloth. Parikrama or walking around the sanctum sanctorum should always be in clockwise direction. Taking photograph of the deity in a temple is normally not permitted.

Export of most wildlife and their products, antiques more than 100 years old is either banned or strictly regulated. Selling and buying "shahtoosh" shawls and Ivory is a crime. Buy at genuine shops only. Bargaining is a popular practice in India and necessary too. While buying an article, make sure that the entire transaction is legal and transparent so that you may claim later if dissatisfied.

Don't eat anything offered by fellow travellers on train or road travels. It might have sleeping pills. Always travel reserved class in trains. Always chain and lock your luggage under your berth in a train. Don't keep anything valuable near the window. Always carry plenty of water, fluids in trains. A lone woman traveller may request to be accommodated near other women travellers.

India is geographically varied; therefore, the climate also varies. Always be aware of the weather before you travel to a region. Always make sure you carry the appropriate clothing to keep yourself comfortable, so you can enjoy your trip. English is a commonly used and understood language throughout India. However, interpreters and guides for other languages are also easy to book. Indians are friendly and helpful.

Remember photography in many places is not allowed such as airports, sensitive controversial religious places such as Mathura and Ayodhya. You might need special permission to take photos or shoot videos. If you are a casual tourist, then it will be fine. You might have to pay a “camera fee”.

If you are happy with the services provided by your tour leader, local guides and drivers, waiters, a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels; inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this trip.

Overall, India is a safe country. But all visitors should exercise the usual levels of vigilance.

Technical Notes

An individual visa is required to enter Indian territory which must be obtained by the traveller itself. Please go through our “How to Get India Tourist Visa - A Complete Guide”.

Arriving India
You can choose any international flight convenient to you as day 01 is kept free for your arrivals. Your accommodation for this day is confirmed from 1400 hrs (Standard check-in time).
Departing India
You can choose any international flight convenient to you on day 08 from 15:00 hrs. onwards. No accommodation in Kochi (Cochin) has been considered on day 08. We request you please provide the correct international flight details like flight numbers arrival
time in Kochi (Cochin) and departure time from Kochi (Cochin) at the time of booking your tour
so that we can provide the assisted transfer accordingly to avoid any hassles.

Train & flight schedules and timings mentioned in the itinerary are subject to change without any prior notice as it is not in India's Tours and Travels control.

Luggage:

In India, you are allowed to take only 15 kg check-in bag and 01 Handbag which should not be more than 7 kg. Additional check-in luggage cost varies between INR 400 to €700 (depending on the airline) per kg which must be paid directly by the traveller at the time of check-in at domestic airports.
Security checks at Indian airports are quite picky, therefore we highly recommend the following for a hassle-free flight.
Lighters and knives are not allowed in cabin/hand baggage and check-in baggage. The power bank is allowed only in Cabin/hand baggage. Liquid items are only allowed in the check-in baggage and in cabin/hand baggage, maximum of 100 ml per item is allowed in one transparent reusable one-litre size plastic bag.

Private chauffeur-driven vehicles (as per the group strength) have been considered as per the above-mentioned itinerary from day 01 till day 07.

01 Solo traveller; 01 air-conditioned sedan vehicle throughout the tour.
02 to 03 traveller; 01 air-conditioned large vehicle throughout the tour.
04 to 08 travellers; 01 air-conditioned Tempo traveller throughout the tour.
09 to 16 travellers; 01 air-conditioned Minibus throughout the tour.

Before taking this trip, the travellers must know about the accommodation level.
Under 3* Comfort category:
One can expect basic yet essential features such as air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms with fresh towels, and free Wi-Fi. The availability of a safe deposit locker is an added convenience for guests looking to secure their valuables during their stay. The inclusion of a TV with a cable connection allows guests to unwind and catch up on their favourite shows or stay updated with the latest news. The electric kettle in each room provides the flexibility to enjoy hot beverages at any time. Having a small restaurant onsite ensures that guests have access to dining options without having to leave the hotel premises. This adds convenience and saves time for travellers who may be busy or prefer not to venture out for meals. Doctor's on-call facility and the round-the-clock reception desk staffed by friendly personnel ensure that assistance is readily available whenever needed.
Under 4* Deluxe category
We consider only those hotels under this category for our customer(s)/traveller(s) which has air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms(including basic toiletries and fresh towels), and free Wi-Fi. The availability of a safe deposit locker is an added convenience for guests looking to secure their valuables during their stay. The inclusion of a TV with a cable connection allows guests to unwind and catch up on their favourite shows or stay updated with the latest news.Having a multi-cuisine restaurant and bar, swimming pool, fitness centre/gym, spa, doctor-on-
call facility and round-the-clock reception desk staffed by friendly personnel ensures tha assistance is readily available whenever needed.
Under 5* Luxury hotels
We consider only those hotels under this category for our customer(s)/traveller(s) which has air-conditioned rooms with upscale furnishings and amenities, private bathrooms (including high-end toiletries and fresh towels), and free Wi-Fi. The availability of a safe deposit locker is an added convenience for guests looking to secure their valuables during their stay. The inclusion of a TV with a cable connection allows guests to unwind and catch up on their favourite shows or stay dated with the latest news. Having multiple restaurants offering gourmet cuisine prepared by renowned chefs, exclusive bars, or lounges where our customer(s)/traveller(s) can enjoy premium drinks in an elegant setting, swimming pool/Infinity swimming pools, fitness centre/gym, spa with elaborated menu, doctor-on-call facility and round-the-clock reception desk staffed by friendly personnel ensures that assistance is readily available whenever needed.

This tour is inclusive of 06 Breakfasts, as specified in the itinerary only. All the breakfasts would be served in the designated restaurants of the hotels except on day 07 where lunch, dinner and breakfast of day 08 would be served in the designated area of the houseboat.

When it comes to packing your luggage for our tours, it's important to consider the specific details of your chosen tour, the country you will be visiting, and the time of year you plan to travel. Here is a general guide to help you pack accordingly:

During all of our tours, we kindly request that you handle your own luggage. The majority of our customer(s)/traveller(s) find it convenient to bring a small, wheeled suitcase. However, the most suitable type of luggage may vary depending on the specifics of your tour and the destination you will be visiting. We recommend bringing the main luggage and a daypack for a comfortable travel experience.

Passport, Visas if required, Travel insurance policy, 24-hour emergency travel insurance contact and policy number, Flight e-tickets, Your travel itinerary with technical notes, Photocopies of important documents, Spare passport photos, Youth/student/seniors cards, Cash/credit cards, 500 EURO/USD/BRITISH POUND contingency fund in cash, Money belt or pouch.

First aid kit, Personal medication/prescriptions, Glasses & sunglasses, contact lenses and solution, Sunscreen, Lip balm, Insect repellent, Antibacterial gel/wipes, motion sickness tablets, Travel vaccination certificates, Anti-diarrhoea pills, Toiletries, Travel hair dryer (if selecting 3* Comfort hotels), shaving equipment, small travel towel, safety pins, consult your doctor for detailed advice on any medications.
Travel accessories.
Travel pillow, cloth/reusable shopping bags, Torch/flashlight (during the trek), mobile, Electrical adapter for the country you are travelling to, camera and equipment, spare batteries/charger, postcards of your home country/family/pets to share with locals.

When it comes to packing the clothes for our tours, it's important to consider the specific details of your chosen tour, the country you will be visiting, and the time of year you plan to travel. We recommend you choose clothing that is easy to wash and fast drying.
General for all seasons: Cap/hat, scarf/bandana (to cover your head while visiting temples), hat against the sun, sunglasses sunscreen.
Summer season: Light walking shoes and sandals, walking socks, linen pants, long sleeve shirt, Jeans, Trousers, shorts, T-shirt, rain cape (just in case), socks/undergarments, flip-flops, durable walking shoes (for sightseeing or city walking tours) sleepwear, and swimsuit to enjoy the hotel’s pool facilities.
Wet season: Raincoat/waterproof jacket, Waterproof bags for rain protection, Waterproof trousers, waterproof covers/pouches for electronics.
Cold weather in plains: Thermal undergarments or base layers, warm hat, gloves, hand warmers, down jacket for the evening, long sleeve shirt, Jeans, Trousers jeans, and durable walking shoes (for sightseeing or city walking tours).
Cold weather in the Mountains: Lightweight gloves, waterproof and breathable windproof jacket, thermal underwear (for spending nights at altitude), down jacket for the evening, warm fleece jacket, Synthetic t-shirts (quick drying), light pants, tough mountain walking shoes, light shoes or sandals walking and warm socks.
Walking or hiking: Walking/trekking shoes, trekking/leech socks, hiking poles/walking sticks, long sleeve T-shirt, Trekking pants/shorts, T-shirts.
Camping: Inner sleep sheet, travel pillow, warm sleeping bag, head torch/lamp.

It is compulsory to have adequate and valid travel insurance for all travellers before their departure. It is advisable that your travel insurance must cover personal accidents, evacuations, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage loss and cancellation or curtailment of a tour.

It is strongly recommended that you are protected against COVID-19, Polio, Malaria, Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis. Vaccination against Yellow Fever is necessary for people coming from countries where there is a risk of transmission. We strongly advise you to consult your doctor at least 07 – 08 weeks before the date of travel for all sorts of medical advice.

In India, gratuities are normally a common practice and highly appreciated but it totally depends on how satisfied you are with the service provided. In order to give you an idea of gratuities, we recommend the following.
For Accompanying tour guide (if any): INR 500 per day per traveller.
Local City Guides (if any): INR 300 to INR 400 per day per traveller
For Chauffeurs: INR 200 to INR 300 per day per traveller
For Porters: INR 50 to INR 100 per day per traveller
Note: The above-mentioned gratuities amount is just an idea and it’s not mandatory. It can be adjusted as per the traveller’s satisfaction level with services provided and obviously the budget.

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24/7 Support:

Travel with confidence knowing that our dedicated support team is available around the clock while you are on the tour. Whether you need assistance during your journey or require help in unforeseen circumstances, we're here to ensure a seamless experience.

Flexible Booking Options

You're free to make changes to your travel plans at no additional cost up to 45 days before your tour’s departure.

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Secure your tour by making an initial payment of only 20% at the time of booking, with the remaining 80% of the balance due 45 days before departure.

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Tranquil Trails of Kerala

Tour Overview

Want to Go For A Memorable Holiday?

Price Of Hotel Type:0

Highlights

Day-By-Day

Welcome to Kochi (Cochin) (By International Flight)

Explore the sights of Kochi (Cochin)

Travel to Munnar

Travel to Thekkady (Periyar)

Thekkady (Periyar)

Travel to Kumarakom

Backwaters of Kerala

Farewell to India

Welcome to Kochi (Cochin) (By International Flight)

Optional Experience : Test

Explore the sights of Kochi (Cochin)

Travel to Munnar

Travel to Thekkady (Periyar)

Thekkady (Periyar)

Travel to Kumarakom

Optional Experience : Full-body Ayurveda massage

Backwaters of Kerala

Farewell to India

What’s Included

What’s not Included

How to Get Tourist Visa - A Complete Guide

Essential Travel Tips

Customize Your Trip

Technical Notes

Book & Travel With Confidence

24/7 Support:

Flexible Booking Options

Payment Flexibility

Book Group Journey

How to Get Tourist Visa
- A Complete Guide

Customize Your
Trip