Bangalore to Backwater of Kerala & Temples of Madurai & Trichy

Day 1: Arrive Bangalore

Upon arrival at Bangalore airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax after your journey, enjoying the comfort of your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short walk around the nearby area to get a feel of the city’s lively atmosphere. Bangalore, known as the “Garden City of India,” offers a perfect blend of modern lifestyle and cultural heritage. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, preparing for the journey ahead. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 2: Bangalore City Tour

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Bangalore, exploring its major attractions and cultural landmarks. Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, famous for its rare tropical plants and beautiful glasshouse. Continue to Bangalore Palace, known for its Tudor-style architecture and royal interiors. Drive through Cubbon Park, a lush green space in the heart of the city, and visit Vidhana Soudha, an impressive government building. Later, visit ISKCON Temple, a spiritual center with stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. Return to your hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 3: Bangalore – Cochin (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to Bangalore airport to board your flight to Cochin. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel and check in. Later, begin the city tour of Cochin, starting with Fort Kochi area known for its colonial charm. Visit the famous Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India. Explore the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) and Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town. Enjoy a walk along the beach during sunset, witnessing local life and scenic views. Overnight at hotel in Cochin.

Day 4: Cochin – Alleppey Houseboat (55 kms / approx. 1.5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, known for its picturesque backwaters and traditional houseboats. On arrival, board your private houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise through the serene canals, lagoons, and villages. Observe local life along the waterways, including paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional homes. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala meals onboard while cruising through tranquil surroundings. The experience offers a unique insight into Kerala’s rural lifestyle. Spend the evening relaxing on deck amidst nature. Overnight on houseboat in Alleppey.

Day 5: Alleppey – Thekkady (140 kms / approx. 4 hrs drive)

After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive to Thekkady, located in the Western Ghats. The journey passes through scenic hills, spice plantations, and forested landscapes. On arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation to learn about cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and other spices. Later, explore local markets or opt for a cultural show such as Kathakali or Kalaripayattu. Thekkady offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 6: Thekkady Exploration

After breakfast, begin the exploration of Thekkady’s natural beauty. Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, deer, and birds. Continue with a guided nature walk or optional bamboo rafting experience inside the forest. Visit a spice garden or local plantation for deeper insights into Kerala’s spice trade. The region is known for its biodiversity and tranquil environment. Return to hotel after sightseeing and relax. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 7: Thekkady – Munnar (90 kms / approx. 3 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, one of South India’s most scenic hill stations. En route, enjoy views of waterfalls, tea plantations, and valleys. Stop at viewpoints for photography and short breaks. On arrival, check in at your hotel and relax in the cool climate of the hills. In the evening, explore the local market or take a leisurely walk amidst tea gardens. Munnar is known for its lush greenery and peaceful ambiance. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 8: Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Munnar covering its major attractions. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and rolling grasslands. Continue to Tea Museum to understand tea processing and history. Visit Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point, offering scenic views and photo opportunities. Explore Top Station for panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Later, visit local gardens and waterfalls around the region. Return to hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 9: Munnar – Madurai (160 kms / approx. 5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India known for its temple heritage. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Later, begin sightseeing with a visit to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its grand architecture and pillars. Continue to Meenakshi Amman Temple, an iconic temple famous for its towering gopurams and intricate carvings. In the evening, explore local markets or attend temple rituals. The city offers a deep spiritual and cultural experience. Overnight at hotel in Madurai.

Day 10: Madurai – Trichy (140 kms / approx. 3 hrs drive) – Bangalore (Flight)

After breakfast, drive to Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), an important temple town in Tamil Nadu. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India. Continue to Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic views after a climb. Explore the temple complex and surrounding areas before transfer to Trichy airport. Board your flight to Bangalore and upon arrival transfer to your hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 11: Bangalore Departure

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Bangalore airport for your onward journey. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Your tour concludes with wonderful memories of Kerala’s backwaters, hill stations, and South India’s rich temple heritage.

• Assistance on arrival and departure at airport
• 10 Nights accommodation in selected category hotels and 1 night houseboat stay
• Daily breakfast at hotels and all meals on houseboat (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
• Private AC vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing (non-AC in hills as per standard)
• English-speaking local guides during sightseeing
• Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
• Periyar Lake boat ride (shared basis)
• Spice plantation visit in Thekkady
• Bottled drinking water in vehicle
• All tolls, parking, driver allowance, and taxes

Hotels used or similar for 10 nights accommodation

Bangalore x 3 nights
3* - Ramada/ The Rialto
4* - Fortune Select JP Cosmos/ Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake
5* - ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection/ ITC Windsor a Luxury Collection

Cochin x 1 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - Deluxe Houseboat (ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats)
4* - Premium Houseboat (Abad Premium Houseboats/ Rainbow Premium Houseboats)
5* - Luxury Houseboat (Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons)

Thekkady x 2 night
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

Munnar x 2 nights
3* - Fort Munnar/ Abad Copper Castle
4* - Nature Zone Jungle Resort/ Fragrant Nature Munnar
5* - Chandys Windy Woods/ Tea County

Madurai x 1 night
3* - Astoria by Sparsa/ Madurai’s Residency
4* - GRT Regency/ Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
5* - Heritage Madurai/ The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai

• Bangalore – Cochin & Trichy – Bangalore flight fare 
• Camera/video charges at monuments
• Optional activities (bamboo rafting, elephant ride, cultural shows, etc.)
• Meals other than mentioned in inclusions
• Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, beverages, etc.
• Travel insurance and medical expenses
• Early check-in & late check-out charges
• Any increase in fuel, toll, or taxes
• Anything not mentioned in inclusions