Set out on a captivating journey through the verdant landscapes of Kerala with the Periyar National Park tour. Discover the region’s diverse wildlife, learn about the tranquility of serene tea gardens, and unwind on the pristine beaches of Kovalam. This meticulously curated itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, promising an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers. Delve deeper into the highlights and inclusions of this comprehensive tour to uncover the myriad wonders that await you in Southern India.
Good To Know
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This 10-day comprehensive tour of Southern India includes a wildlife boat cruise in Periyar National Park, exploration of Kerala’s tea plantations, and relaxation on Kovalam’s beaches.
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Highlights of the tour include visiting Cochin’s historic landmarks, experiencing Munnar’s scenic tea estates, and cruising the Kerala backwaters on a traditional houseboat.
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The tour offers a balance of culture, natural wonders, and leisure, with a focus on activities like spice plantation tours and Ayurvedic wellness options.
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The tour is priced at £772.75 per person and includes transport, accommodations, daily mineral water, and local guides, with no upfront payment required.
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The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, and recommendations include wearing comfortable shoes and avoiding large bags.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Periyar National Park with Kerala Tea Garden and Beach Tour offers a comprehensive 10-day exploration of Southern India’s natural and cultural wonders.
Priced at £772.75 per person, the tour includes airport/railway station pickup, private air-conditioned transport, star deluxe hotel accommodations with meals, and a local guide as required.
Highlights include visiting Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, and Kovalam, with activities such as wildlife safaris, tea plantation tours, and backwater cruises.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The tour is suitable for general travelers, and live guides are available in multiple languages.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in India.
Itinerary Highlights
This tour’s itinerary highlights a diverse range of experiences across Southern India.
Explore Cochin’s local markets and iconic landmarks like the Chinese Fishing Nets and Mattancherry Palace. Experience the lush tea plantations and waterfalls of Munnar.
Set out on a wildlife boat cruise in Periyar National Park and enjoy a relaxing houseboat stay in the serene Kerala backwaters.
Unwind on the beaches of Kovalam before your departure.
The tour balances culture, natural wonders, and leisure, providing a comprehensive introduction to Kerala’s captivating landscapes and traditions.
Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy deluxe accommodations, private transportation, and the services of local guides.
Arrival and Cochin Sightseeing
Upon arrival in Cochin, travelers explore the city’s vibrant local markets, seeing the bustling energy and diverse wares on display.
The next day, the tour takes visitors to the iconic sights of Fort Kochi, including the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the Mattancherry Palace.
They also witness the captivating Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of Kerala’s cultural heritage.
Throughout the Cochin sightseeing, travelers gain insights into the city’s rich history, architecture, and traditions, setting the tone for the remarkable journey ahead in Kerala.
Drive to Munnar and Exploration
After experiencing the vibrant hustle and bustle of Cochin, the tour now heads to the serene and picturesque hill station of Munnar.
The drive takes 4-5 hours, with stops at the stunning Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls along the way.
In Munnar, guests will explore the expansive tea plantations, the Eravikulam National Park known for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr, the interactive Tea Museum, and the picturesque Mattupetty Dam.
With its rolling hills, misty landscapes, and pleasant weather, Munnar offers a refreshing contrast to the coastal towns, providing a chance to immerse in Kerala’s natural beauty.
More Great Tours NearbyJourney to Thekkady and Spice Tour
The journey from Munnar to Thekkady takes 3-4 hours, winding through the scenic Western Ghats. Upon arrival, travelers will embark on an evening spice plantation tour. This provides an immersive experience, allowing them to explore the diverse array of spices grown in the region, such as black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
Spice | Origin | Uses |
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Black Pepper | India | Seasoning, medicine |
Cardamom | India | Cooking, aromatherapy |
Cinnamon | Sri Lanka | Baking, medicine |
Cloves | Indonesia | Cooking, dentistry |
Guests will learn about the cultivation, processing, and traditional uses of these fragrant spices. The tour concludes with an overnight stay in Thekkady, setting the stage for the next day’s exploration of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Activities
On the sixth day, travelers venture into the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary for a true wildlife experience.
They embark on a morning boat cruise on Periyar Lake, providing a unique perspective of the sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna. Travelers may spot elephants, tigers, deer, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Plus, they can explore the sanctuary further through wildlife exploration, bamboo rafting, or a nature walk, seeing the serene and untamed wilderness.
This day promises an unforgettable encounter with the rich ecosystem of the Periyar National Park, offering a chance to observe and appreciate the wonders of Kerala’s wildlife.
Backwaters Cruise and Relaxation in Kovalam
Leaving the wildlife sanctuary behind, travelers embark on a picturesque drive to the charming town of Alleppey. Here, they board a traditional houseboat for an overnight cruise through the serene Kerala backwaters. Gliding along the tranquil canals, they witness the daily life of the local communities and savor the natural beauty surrounding them.
Backwater Cruise Highlights | |
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Peaceful ambiance | Local delicacies |
Floating villages | Bird watching |
Coconut groves | Ayurvedic wellness |
After the relaxing cruise, the tour continues to the coastal town of Kovalam, where travelers can unwind on the pristine beaches and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Inclusions, Exclusions, and Important Information
This Periyar National Park and Kerala Tour package includes several valuable services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
The tour includes airport/railway station pickup, private air-conditioned transport, and star deluxe hotel accommodations with breakfast and dinner.
Travelers will also receive daily mineral water and a local guide as required. All applicable taxes and service charges are covered.
However, the package excludes international/domestic airfare, additional costs due to cancellations or bad weather, entrance fees at monuments, and personal expenses.
It’s suitable for general travelers, not those with mobility issues. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and avoid bringing large bags.
The Sum Up
This Southern India tour offers a captivating blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Enjoy the Periyar National Park’s diverse wildlife, discover the enchanting Kerala tea gardens, and unwind on the pristine beaches of Kovalam. With a seamless combination of adventure and tranquility, this journey promises an unforgettable experience through Kerala’s remarkable landscapes and local experiences.
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