Day 01 Arrive Kochi

Arrive at Kochi international airport. After a traditional welcome ‘Swagat’, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Kochi has a historical sea trade connection with the Middle East, Mediterranean and northern Europe. Its cosmopolitan past is reflected in the buildings and structures which represent different parts of the world, a blend of the old Portuguese, Dutch and British influences. The afternoon sightseeing programme visits Fort Kochi, founded by the Portuguese in 1503 and believed to be the earliest European settlement in India. There are brightly coloured warehouses filled with the smell of tea and spices, rickety old bikes and hand-painted trucks piled high with goods, while food stalls stand on every corner. In the afternoon we take a tour of Mattancherry Palace built by the Portuguese as a gift for the Raja of Kochi. We also visit the 16th century Jewish synagogue as well as St. Francis church – the resting place of the famous Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama. We explore the town of Kochi, its bazaars and old harbor area, and in the evening an optional visit to see a display of Kathakali, a classical dance form unique to Kerala concludes the day. Included Meals : No meals included today Hotel

Day 02 Drive from Kochi to Munnar - Approx. driving distance 81 miles (130 kms) time 4 to -5 hrs

In the morning there is a transfer away from the coastal plains to Munnar, located in the Western Ghats and approximately 1,600 metres above sea level. Once the summer-resort of the British administration in South India, Munnar is a beautiful hill station which retains its colonial charm and is famous for its tea plantations. The town is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams Mudrapauzha, Naliathani and Kundala. With its rolling hills, sparkling waterfalls, tea plantations and picture-postcard hamlets, the area is perfect for some leisurely hiking. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying the ambiance of the town and the beauty of its bazaars.

Day 03 Munnar: Hiking Day (5-6 hrs)

After an early breakfast we drive through the old town of Munnar and arrive in the tiny village of Nagarmudi, from where, accompanied by a local guide, we start our trek. The trail commences with a gradual ascent through the tea plantations and then climbs into Seven Malai hills. Before we reach the top we enjoy walking through cardamom & coffee plantations. At the top we are rewarded with spectacular views of Annamudi Peak, Changulam Lake, Chittrapuram Dam, Munnar town and some local villages. Later we descend down through the same route and are transferred to our hotel. In the late afternoon we may choose an optional visit to a Tea Museum. Included Meals : Breakfast , Pack Lunch Hotel

Day 04 Trek Starts; Munnar – Silent Valley – Base camp 2000 m (4-5 hrs) Suitably acclimatized by now it's time to embark on walking journey of discovery into the wilder side of Kerala. In the morning we drive to the Silent Valley passing through some tea estates and plantations. The Silent Valley Plateau is a haven to the Nilgiri Tahr, as well as to a large number of other bird species. After about an hour’s drive we arrive here and start our trek that begins with a steady ascent through tea estates to reach the natural wild grassy areas where we enjoy beautiful views all around tea plantations providing a good feel of the area. After a relaxing lunch we continue walking through some impressive waterfalls before the trail becomes steeper up through pinewoods. We continue climbing and finally descend to our first camp situated near forest hut , where we spend 2 nights. (4-5 hours walking). Included Meals : Breakfast , Pack Lunch & Dinner Camp

Day 05 Hike to Meesapulimala (2630m;4-5 hrs) After breakfast we set out on a half day trek to Meesapulimala Peak (2,630m), the highest point in this area but the second highest in South India (Annamudi being highest, but falls under restricted area). From the camp the trail ascends through rough grassland until open ridges, from where it winds across wide meadows, and then as on most mountains it gets steeper closer to the summit. However, our efforts are rewarded with breath-taking views from the top across Kerala and Tamil Nadu as it is also the border between these two states. It takes us about 2-3 hours to reach to the top and after a short break at the top we descend to our camp for a late lunch and free afternoon. (4-5 hrs) Included Meals : Breakfast , Pack Lunch & Dinner Camp Trip Type | Adventure Tour Recognized By Ministry Of Tourism Government of India © Active India, All rights reserved

Day 06 Base camp/Rodo Valley – Top Station – Oorakadu (1750 m; 5 -6 hrs) Today on a relatively longer day we trek across the plateau of the Western Ghats through an area of plantations of red Rhododendron that enhances the beauty of the entire region. This plateau of the Western Ghats is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, such as Atlas Moth, Wild Goat and Wild Boar.Following a packed lunch en route, we will reach Pachakkadu Village, arriving late afternoon. From here we will be taken by jeeps, for approx. 45 mins, and then walk to our campsite at Top Station ( Oorkadu) (1900m) . 5-6 hrs. trek and about 45 minutes transfer. Included Meals : Breakfast , Pack Lunch & Dinner Camp

Day 07 Top Station (Oorakadu ) - Koviloor (trek around 4 hrs.) After breakfast trek starts through the eucalyptus plantation and then to the vegetable gardens of carrot,beans,beatroot,cabbage etc: then interact with the farmers.The ups and downs of the mud road will lead you to an old tribal village Vattavada.Savour pack lunch near the shades. While trekking you will witness the panoramic views of the cluster houses of the Koviloor village.The ascending and descending maximum ranges from 20 to 30 metres during the trek.You will have to take off your shoes to cross a small canal towards the final stretch of the trek,will end up in the koviloor village (a vegetable and auction market ).Total duration of the trek is around 4 hrs.. we can stay here for overnight in camps or drive to Madurai Board the vehicle towards onward journey.to Madurai about 5 hrs. 30 minutes. Included Meals : Breakfast , Pack Lunch & Dinner Camp

Day 08 Koviloor – Madurai (trek 2 – 3 hrs. & drive 5 ½ hrs. After breakfast trek through the plantation ridge around 3 hrs. While walking you will witness the beautiful views of Koviloor village. serve pack lunch and board the vehicle towards onward journey journey to Madurai about 5 and 1/2 hrs to Madurai. we leave Kerala behind and drive across the plains to reach the colorful city of Madurai, famous for its intricate temple complexes. Madurai is one of the oldest and most fascinating cities in Tamil Nadu and is a thriving cultural center with a rich heritage and history. Its great Meenakshi-Sundareshwarar Temple, built during the Nayak period between 16th and 18th centuries is at the heart of the city and is one of the biggest temple complexes in India. The five gopurams that surround the temple are known for the stucco-work - the 48.8m high southern gopuram is the tallest. Worshipers bathe in the tank of the Golden Lily and throng the Hall of a Thousand Pillars, each uniquely carved. Madurai is a perfect place to wander around and to experience the Hindu Culture. Trekking : 2-3hrs. Drive about 5 -1/2 hrs. Included Meals : Breakfast , Pack Lunch Hotel

Day 09 Madurai – Thekkady (140 kms/4-5 hrs) In the morning we drive to Thekkady where we re-enter the state of Kerala. The drive is spectacular as the road climbs through the Western Ghats that has fantastic views across Tamil Nadu. We then arrive in the small bustling village of Thekkady and check-in to the hotel. This whole area is a center for spice cultivation and after lunch we walk around in a spice garden where many different spices under cultivation can be seen. There is plenty of time in the afternoon to explore the bazaar where there are numerous shops selling cardamoms, vanilla, peppercorns, chilies, turmeric and other spices. Included Meals : Breakfast Hotel

Day 10 Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary) (3 hrs) Early morning we leave for a jungle walk in the park accompanied by forest guides. In the park we can admire abundance of bird life - kingfishers, storks and horn-bills are the most commonly spotted. The Periyar National Park is one of the largest in south India and is set around a large man-made lake. After the jungle walk we return to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon there may be possibility of an optional boat trip on Periyar Lake. This is an ideal opportunity to get close to the animals and a good opportunity for spotting elephants, otters, wild pigs, and buffaloes. In the afternoon Ayurvedic massage is also an option and can be arranged in the nearby Ayurvedic massage center. Included Meals : Breakfast Hotel

Day 11 Thekkady – Alleppey (Backwaters) (160 kms/4-5 hrs) After breakfast we drive to Alleppey. Also known as Alappuzha, the town is a principal centre for backwater cruises in Kerala. We board our houseboats and begin our cruise along the backwaters of Kerala; one of the highlights of the trip. These enchanting boats have been decorated and made into comfortable cruise vessels. We meander along the waterways flanked by lush tropical vegetation, catching glimpses of dazzling tropical birds and watching idyllic villages. Our overnight stay is on the boats in the middle of the famous Vembanad Lake. Included Meals : Breakfast , Pack Lunch & Dinner Houseboat

Day 12 Alleppey – Kovalam (160 kms/04 hrs) After a relaxing breakfast on the houseboats we disembark and drive to Kovalam. Kovalam is an extremely popular beach resort due to shallow water and low tidal waves. It offers an excellent diversity to suit all desires and occasions. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm water ideal for sea bathing. The beaches are backed by precipitously mounting headlands and Hotel Trip Type | Adventure Tour Recognized By Ministry Of Tourism Government of India © Active India, All rights reserved covered by fertile coconut palms. The southernmost part of light house beach is more beautiful. Some of the leisure options at this beach are sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programs, catamaran cruising, etc. Included Meals : Breakfast

Day 13 Kovalam (Optional Tour to Kanyakumari)

We have a free day to enjoy the idyllic soft sandy beaches, warm clear waters and wide views of the ocean horizon that Kovalam has to offer. There is also the opportunity to do an optional day's sightseeing tour by taxi from Kovalam to Kanyakumari, the southern tip of India where 2 seas - the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal meet in the India Ocean. The trip also takes in the old wooden palace of the rulers of Travancore at Padmapuhamban - a marvelous building with fantastic woodcarvings; and Hindu temple at Suchindram with its amazing stone carvings (This trip can be booked and paid for locally). Included Meals : Breakfast Hotel

Day 14 Tour Concludes

In the morning we are transferred to the international airport of Trivandrum to catch our flights back to our respective destinations. 

• Western Ghats – for trekking through forests and tea plantations.

• Traditional House Boats – for an overnight stay amid stunning beauty of backwaters.

• Munnar – for its grandeur and tea plantations.

• Madurai – for its animated Meenakshi Temple.

• Periyar National Park – for its wildlife including wild elephants.

• Kovalam – for its tropical beaches for complete relaxation