Tour Highlights
Varkala
/ Cochin / Kumarakom / Thekkady / Madurai
Kerala
is known to the profusion of its spices and the rich diversity and beauty of
its scenery. Starting in Trivandrum, the state capital, the tour visits the
port city of Cochin, the enchanting backwaters of Kumarakom. The journey
continues to the Cardamom Hills and Thekkady and ends at the colourful
temple-city of Madurai.
Detailed Day Wise Itinerary
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Day 01 Trivandrum – Varkala (55 kms. / approx. 1.5 hours drive)
Arrive into Trivandrum, and then proceed to Varkala, where you will stay for two nights. You could spend the rest of the day at the beach, which is wonderful for sunbathing and unwinding.
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Day 02 Varkala – Cochin (155 kms. / approx. 3 hours drive)
Today drive from Varkala to Cochin where you stay for two nights. Set in a charming maze of lagoons and watercourses just off the Arabian Sea, Cochin was the first European city on Indian soil and inhabited by the Portuguese in the year 1500.
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Day 03 In Cochin
Today visit the sights of Fort Cochin and see the huge fishing nets - the ancient way of catching fish. Kerala is the home to Indian dancing and this evening you may choose to enjoy one of the most riotous dances, Kathakali in a local theatre.
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Day 04 Cochin – Kumarakom (90 kms. / approx. 2 hours drive)
After breakfast travel to Kumarakom, perched on the edge of canals, where the ways of life have remained unchanged for centuries. In the afternoon take a country boat (Optional) on a sunset cruise to the Lake.
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Day 05 Kumarakom – Thekkady (135 kms. / approx. 5 hours drive)
This morning drive to Thekkady where you will stay for two nights. Thekkady is nestled in the cardamom Hills, through rice paddies and tea plantations. In the afternoon you may visit the spice plantation.
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Day 06 In Thekkady
Early in the morning you will enjoy a boat ride at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Park, known for its herds of elephants, more than 3000 species of birds and fresh lake animals. In the afternoon, you may wish to take a walk through the town of Thekaddy and shop for spices.
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Day 07 Thekkady – Madurai (135 kms. / approx. 4 hours drive)
Today drive from Thekkady to Madurai where you will be booked for one night. In the afternoon visit the famous Meenakshi Temple, an outstanding example of Vijayanagar temple architecture.
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Day 08 Depart Madurai
This morning you depart Madurai for your onward journey.