Cochin to Bangalore Backwater, Tea Estate, Temple & Palaces

Day 1: Arrive Cochin

Upon arrival at Cochin Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After some time to relax and refresh, begin the city tour of Cochin, a historic port city known for its colonial influences and cultural diversity. Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets at Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), and the Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town. Walk through the charming streets reflecting Portuguese, Dutch, and British heritage. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance showcasing Kerala’s classical storytelling art. Overnight at hotel in Cochin.

Day 2: Cochin – Alleppey (Backwater Experience)

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Alleppey covering approx. 55 kms / 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, board your private houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise through the backwaters of Kerala. Glide past lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and village life along narrow canals and waterways. Enjoy freshly prepared traditional Kerala meals onboard while experiencing the tranquil surroundings. The gentle movement of the houseboat and scenic beauty create a unique and peaceful experience. Overnight on board the houseboat in Alleppey.

Day 3: Alleppey – Thekkady

After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive to Thekkady covering approx. 140 kms / 4 hours. Thekkady is home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice plantations. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. In the evening, witness a traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performance followed by a Kathakali dance show. These performances provide insight into Kerala’s rich cultural traditions and performing arts. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 4: Thekkady Sightseeing

Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before proceeding for a boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, and birds along the banks. After the safari, visit a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and other spices. The aromatic surroundings and educational experience add depth to your visit. Later, explore the local market for spices and handicrafts. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 5: Thekkady – Munnar

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Munnar covering approx. 95 kms / 3–4 hours. Enjoy a scenic journey through winding roads, waterfalls, and tea plantations. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Later, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and processing of tea in the region. Enjoy a tea tasting session and take in the beautiful surroundings of rolling green hills. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 6: Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the sightseeing tour of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, followed by scenic viewpoints such as Pothamedu offering panoramic views of plantations. Continue to Devikulam, known for its tranquil lake and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy leisurely walks amidst tea gardens and experience the cool climate of this hill station. The day offers a perfect mix of nature and relaxation. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 7: Munnar – Madurai

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Madurai covering approx. 160 kms / 4–5 hours. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Later, begin the city tour with a visit to the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its towering gopurams and intricate carvings. Explore the temple complex and witness the vibrant evening prayer ceremony. Walk through the bustling streets of Madurai and experience the local culture and cuisine. Overnight at hotel in Madurai.

Day 8: Madurai – Coimbatore

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Coimbatore covering approx. 215 kms / 5–6 hours. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Later, visit the Gass Forest Museum, known for its natural history exhibits. Continue to the Adiyogi Shiva Statue and Isha Yoga Ashram, where you can experience a peaceful and spiritual environment. Spend time exploring the surroundings and enjoying the calm atmosphere. Overnight at hotel in Coimbatore.

Day 9: Coimbatore – Ooty

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Ooty covering approx. 85 kms / 3 hours through scenic mountain roads. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Later, visit Ooty Lake and enjoy a boat ride amidst beautiful surroundings. Continue to the Botanical Gardens, known for their wide variety of plants and flowers. You may also experience a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, offering spectacular views of hills and valleys. Overnight at hotel in Ooty.

Day 10: Ooty – Mysore

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Mysore covering approx. 125 kms / 3–4 hours. En route, enjoy scenic landscapes and forested areas. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Later, begin the city tour with a visit to Mysore Palace, one of India’s most magnificent royal residences. Continue to Chamundeshwari Temple located on Chamundi Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. In the evening, explore Devaraja Market known for its vibrant local atmosphere. Overnight at hotel in Mysore.

Day 11: Mysore – Bangalore

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Bangalore covering approx. 150 kms / 3–4 hours. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Later, begin the city tour of Bangalore. Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Vidhana Soudha, and Bangalore Palace. Explore MG Road in the evening, known for shopping, dining, and vibrant city life. Bangalore offers a blend of historical charm and modern urban culture. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 12: Bangalore Departure

After breakfast at the hotel, check out 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 journey concludes with memorable experiences of South India’s backwaters, tea estates, temples, and royal heritage.

• Meet and greet assistance on arrival and departure
• 11 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• 1 night stay on private houseboat in Alleppey with all meals
• Daily breakfast at hotels (except houseboat where all meals are included)
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers, sightseeing, and intercity travel
• English-speaking local guides during sightseeing as per itinerary
• Monument entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary
• 1-time shared boat safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with naturalist
• Cultural performances including Kathakali and Kalaripayattu
• Bottled drinking water in the vehicle throughout the journey
• All toll taxes, parking charges, driver allowances, and government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 11 nights accommodation

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)

Pariyar (Thekkady) x 2 nights
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

Coimbatore x 1 night
3* - Gokulam Park Hotel/ ZIBE Coimbatore by GRT Hotels
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/The Residency Towers
5* - WelcomHotel Coimbatore/ Vivanta Coimbatore

Ooty x 1 nights
3* - Monarch Hotel/ Hotel Darshan
4* - Fortune Resort Sullivan Court/ Sinclairs Retreat
5* - Savoy - IHCL SeleQtions/ Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel

Mysore x 1 night
3* - Southern Star/Sandesh The Prince
4* - Fortune Park JP Palace/ Grand Mercure
5* - Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden/The Windflower Resort & Spa

Bangalore x 1 night
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

• Any domestic or international flight tickets
• Meals other than those specified in inclusions
• Early check-in and late check-out at hotels
• Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, beverages, telephone, and shopping
• Camera or video charges at monuments and parks
• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
• Travel insurance and medical expenses
• Any increase in taxes, fuel surcharge, or entry fees
• Any services not specifically mentioned under inclusions