South India Tour to Kerala

ith the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats (mountains) in the east, and flowing with a network of 44 rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Asia. It is a perfect destination for adventure, culture, and relaxation.

With its laid-back beach scene, swaying elephant rides, and gentle houseboat cruises along tropical backwaters, enchanting art forms, and historic cultural monuments, you'll soon see why National Geographic Traveler voted Kerala one of its ten Paradise Found destinations.

The South India Tour is offered as part of the following tours:

• Health & Wellness Tour
• Yoga & Meditation Tour
• Deluxe Tour

Trivandrum to Kovalam

Arrive at Trivandrum airport. Visit the majestic Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple, which was already considered an ancient temple in literature that is more than 2,000 years old. Traditionally said to be one of the 108 abodes of the primary deity Vishnu, the temple is also renowned for its magnificent architecture, awe-inspiring interiors, elaborate rituals, and spiritual energy.

In the evening, proceed to Kovalam, a beach town by the Arabian Sea, featuring three spectacular crescent beaches, the most popular being Lighthouse Beach. Favored by all for its graceful coconut trees, pristine beaches, shopping, and more! Spend the night at a beautiful beach resort in Kovalam.

Kovalam to Alleppey

Leave Kovalam in the morning. Make a stop at the famous Ambady Temple to Mother Divine. Arrive at Alleppey around lunchtime and check into your houseboat, situated on the backwaters of Alleppey. Cruise along the canal, observing the varied bird and animal life, colorful flora and fauna, and rural life in the villages on the canal banks. All meals are provided aboard the houseboat.

Alleppey, also called the "Venice of the East," is famous for its annual snake-boat races that attract spectators from all over the world. These races typically feature boats measuring a hundred feet or more in length, rowed by a hundred or so oarsmen, accompanied by drummers, cheering supporters, and musicians, with victory chants at the end. It is truly a memorable spectacle. Whispering lagoons, winding canals, houseboat holiday packages, and swaying palms make Alleppey a tourist paradise to remember.

Alleppey to Thekkady

Check out after breakfast, drive to Thekkady via Kumarakom. Visit Vaikom Mahadeva Temple in Kumarakom. Considered to be one of the oldest temples in Kerala, the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is famous for its elephant processions and art performances.

Arrive at Thekkady. Check into the holiday resort. Stay overnight.

Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (or Thekkady) is one of South India's most popular wildlife sanctuaries, with a protected elephant and tiger reserve. The area that is open to tourists is next to Lake Periyar. Spanning an area of 777 square kilometers, Periyar forms part of the Western Ghat (mountain) region. Home to cardamom, clove, pepper, coffee, and tea plantations, Periyar is known for its cool climate, spice-perfumed air, endless hiking and trekking options, wildlife viewing trips, and lake cruises.

Thekkady to Cochin

Set out in the morning on a boat cruise and wildlife viewing on Lake Periyar. Depart to Cochin, stopping at a spice plantation en route. Arrive in Cochin and check into the hotel. Spend the evening sightseeing around the city.

Cochin Tour

The center of the Indian spice industry for many centuries, enjoying trade with Dutch, British, Greek, Portuguese, and Arabs businesses, Cochin (Kochi) is the commercial capital of Kerala, and one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the state. Cochin also has one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Some of the notable tourist destinations in Cochin include the Paradesi Synagogue (the oldest active synagogue in the 53-state Commonwealth of Nations), Dutch Palace, and St. Francis Church.

Cochin to Guruvayoor & Drop off at Cochin airport

Depart at 5am for Guruvayoor. Visit the ancient Guruvayoor Sri Krishna Temple, considered one of the holiest Hindu shrines in India. (The deity statue in this temple was said to have belonged at various times to Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, and Krishna.) Depart to Cochin airport to board your flight back home.