Duration: 12 NIGHTS 13 DAYS
Places Covered: COCHIN - ATHIRAPALLY – VALPARAI – MADURAI – MUNNAR – PERIYAR – ALLEPPEY – HOUSEBOAT – COCHIN
DAY 1 ARRIVE COCHIN - ATHIRAPALLY
Upon your arrival at Cochin International Airport, our team will greet you and facilitate your transfer to Athirapally. Positioned at the opening point of the Sholayar forest range, Athirapally offers unparalleled beauty that defies description. Begin your exploration with the majestic Athirapally Waterfalls, cascading over 80 ft with a furious roar, creating a mesmerizing sight. Next, visit Kauthuka Park and Charpa Waterfalls for an ultimate bird-watching experience. Conclude the day with a comfortable stay at your hotel.
DAY 2 ATHIRAPALLY - VALPARAI
Next, embark on a journey to the super amazing destination of Valparai, driving through the reserve forests of Sholayar. En route, marvel at the diverse wildlife including elephants, wild boar, leopards, and the indigenous Nilgiri Thar and species of wild goat. Upon arrival in Valparai, known for its numerous tea and coffee estates, check in at a tea plantation bungalow on a working tea estate. Enjoy this unique accommodation to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Overnight stay is at the plantation bungalow.
DAY 3 VALPARAI
After indulging in a breakfast accompanied by delicious tea, embark on an exploration of the countryside in Valparai. Begin with a walk through the tea estate, witnessing the plantation workers tending to and picking tea, gaining a complete understanding of the process. Along the way, encounter extraordinary waterfalls and attractive reservoirs, including the renowned Sholayar Dam, known for attracting birdlife such as the Great Indian Hornbill. Return to the bungalow after your adventures and unwind for the night, surrounded by the tranquility of the tea estate.
DAY 4 VALPARAI - MADURAI
After departing from Valparai, embark on a road trip towards Madurai. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax. Begin your exploration of Madurai with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Temple, dedicated to the consort of Lord Shiva and attracting tourists from around the world. Next, explore the grand Thirumalai Nayaka Palace, renowned for its majestic architecture. Conclude your day with dinner and a comfortable night's stay at the hotel.
DAY 5 MADURAI – MUNNAR
After enjoying a delightful breakfast at the hotel in Madurai, proceed to your next destination, Munnar. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax. Begin your sightseeing of Munnar, exploring its lush green landscapes and serene beauty. In the evening, take a stroll through the Munnar Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process, and visit the Cardamom Curing Centre to experience the aroma of spices. Spend the night at the hotel, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings of Munnar.
DAY 6 MUNNAR
After breakfast, embark on a scenic walk through the tea plantation spots, immersing yourself in the beauty of Munnar's landscapes. Next, head to Eravikulam National Park, just 30 minutes away, where you can marvel at the majestic Nilgiri Thaars, a highlight of the park. Afterward, explore other attractions including Attukal Waterfalls, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Kundala Lake, and Mount Carmel. Conclude the day with a delicious dinner at the hotel before retiring for the night.
DAY 7 MUNNAR - PERIYAR
On the 7th day of your trip, drive to Periyar, also known as Thekkady, home to one of the most popular Nature Reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries in the Cardamom Hills of South India. Upon arrival, check into your private bungalow and take some time to relax in the isolated plantation surroundings. In the afternoon, veer away from the touristy areas and visit the cardamom plantations, immersing yourself in the essence of this tour. Return to the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
DAY 8 PERIYAR
Today, you will immerse yourself in a long rafting cum trekking program through the lush forest tracks of Periyar Tiger Reserve, promising an unforgettable experience. Navigate across the renowned Periyar Lake, enjoying the scenic beauty and tranquility it offers. In addition to the rafting adventure, you will traverse through a mosaic of pristine habitats, known worldwide for their natural splendor. Conclude the day with an overnight stay at the plantation bungalow, surrounded by the serene beauty of Periyar.
DAY 9 PERIYAR - ALLEPPEY
Today marks the ultimate day of your journey as you depart for Alleppey to board the Houseboat, a modern adaptation of traditional Kettuvallams or Rice Boats. Indulge in a delightful lunch onboard as you cruise through the picturesque landscapes. Explore the beauty of the backwaters and exotic landscapes, immersing yourself in the serene surroundings. Relax and enjoy your stay onboard the houseboat, cherishing the moments of tranquility and beauty.
DAY 10 ALLEPPEY
After enjoying your breakfast onboard the houseboat, embark on a serene cruise through the narrow canals of the Vembanad Lake. Witness the floating markets in canoes and admire the exotic landscapes of rolling paddy fields, adding an ethnic touch to your journey. Spend the day onboard the houseboat, relishing the tranquil surroundings. As the sun sets, indulge in peaceful stargazing, a rare experience away from crowded cities. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner, accompanied by the soothing sounds of water gushing over the moors.
DAY 11 ALLEPPEY - COCHIN
Upon arrival in Cochin from Alleppey, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can relax for a while. Cochin, known for its remarkable history and fascinating culture, awaits your exploration. Immerse yourself in the city's heritage with a sunset cruise ride along the backwaters, offering illuminated views of Marine Drive and its surroundings. After the cruise, return to the hotel for an overnight stay, ready to continue your exploration of Cochin the following day.
DAY 12 COCHIN
In Cochin, your sightseeing adventure will commence with visits to the main tourist attractions including the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Hill Palace, St. Francis Church, and Puthuvype Beach. For a romantic getaway, head to Fort Kochi Beach and bask in its serene ambiance. Later, make your way to Marine Drive to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking sunset over the horizon. After a day of exploration and relaxation, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 13 DEPARTURE
This is the end of your Tea & Wildlife trails package. We will guide you to the Cochin airport to catch the return flight for your onward destination. We serve the best and maintain our values with the best in all amenities.
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