The Backwater of Kerala Tour offers travelers a captivating 5-day, 4-night experience that showcases the enchanting beauty of Kerala’s backwaters and rich cultural heritage. Starting in the historic city of Kochi, visitors can explore iconic landmarks and witness the mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance. The journey then continues with a scenic houseboat cruise in Alleppey, a visit to the vibrant Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and leisure time at the stunning beaches of Kovalam. With an array of optional activities, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that immerses guests in the serene backwaters and vibrant culture of Kerala. What awaits those who embark on this captivating journey?
Key Points
- Comprehensive 5-day, 4-night Kerala backwater tour exploring Kochi, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kovalam, and Trivandrum, priced from £358.84 per person.
- Highlights include sightseeing in Kochi, houseboat cruise in Alleppey, visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and exploration of Kovalam beaches and Trivandrum attractions.
- Flexible booking with no upfront payment and cancellation allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Tour is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English with a live guide.
- Optional activities like canoeing, fishing, village walks, and Ayurvedic massages available to enhance the overall experience.
Tour Overview
The backwater tour of Kerala offers a 5-day, 4-night experience priced from £358.84 per person.
Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can book the tour without upfront payment. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and it’s conducted in English with a live guide.
Highlights include sightseeing in Kochi, a houseboat cruise in Alleppey, a visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and exploring the beaches and attractions in Kovalam and Trivandrum.
The package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, private air-conditioned transportation, accommodation with breakfast, and entry tickets.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.
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Itinerary Highlights
Arriving in Kochi on the first day, visitors embark on a sightseeing tour of the city’s historic landmarks, including the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets.
The evening concludes with a captivating Kathakali dance performance.
The second day takes travelers to Alleppey, where they board a traditional houseboat for a leisurely cruise through the picturesque backwaters, enjoying both lunch and dinner on board.
On day three, the journey continues to Kumarakom, home to the renowned Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, with optional activities such as canoeing, fishing, and village walks.
Arrival in Kochi
Visitors to the Backwater of Kerala Tour first arrive in the vibrant city of Kochi, formerly known as Cochin.
They’re transferred from the Kochi International Airport or Ernakulam Railway Station to their hotel.
The tour then takes them on a sightseeing excursion, exploring the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets.
In the evening, they witness the captivating Kathakali dance performance, a traditional Kerala art form.
This first day sets the stage for the enchanting backwater experience that awaits them in the coming days.
Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey
On the second day, guests depart Kochi and travel to the picturesque town of Alleppey. Upon arrival, they check into their houseboat and begin a serene cruise through the Kerala Backwaters.
The itinerary includes:
- Gliding along the serene canals and lakes, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional villages.
- Enjoying a delicious lunch and dinner freshly prepared on board using local ingredients.
- Taking in the tranquil atmosphere and observing the local way of life along the waterways.
This houseboat experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Kerala Backwaters and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich culture and traditions.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyKumarakom Bird Sanctuary
The lush Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary lies within the Vembanad Lake, a vast expanse of shimmering waters dotted with picturesque islets. Home to over 200 species of migratory birds, the sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Visitors can spot a variety of indigenous and exotic birds, including herons, storks, ducks, and cormorants.
Highlights | Duration | Best Time | Entry Fee |
---|---|---|---|
Birdwatching | 1-2 hours | June to March | ₹100 for adults, ₹50 for children |
Canoeing | 1-2 hours | Year-round | ₹200 per hour |
Butterfly Park | 30-60 minutes | Year-round | ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children |
Nature Walk | 1-2 hours | Year-round | Included in sanctuary entry fee |
Visitors can also enjoy canoeing, explore the butterfly park, and embark on a peaceful nature walk to fully enjoy the sanctuary’s serene environment.
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Exploring Kovalam Beaches
Kovalam’s trio of alluring beaches – Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach – offer visitors a captivating seaside experience.
The tour takes travelers to explore these distinct coastal gems. Lighthouse Beach, the most famous, features a striking lighthouse and gentle surf.
Hawa Beach, nestled in a cove, boasts calmer waters perfect for swimming.
Samudra Beach, the least crowded, provides a tranquil atmosphere to enjoy the sunset views from the nearby lighthouse.
Guests can also indulge in optional Ayurvedic massages, further elevating their Kovalam beach experience before continuing the journey to Trivandrum.
Trivandrum Sightseeing
After exploring the captivating beaches of Kovalam, the tour continues to the historic city of Trivandrum. Guests will visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a remarkable architectural marvel and one of the wealthiest temples in the world. The Napier Museum, with its diverse collection of ancient artifacts, and the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, showcasing the region’s artistic heritage, are also on the itinerary. Travelers can indulge in some last-minute shopping and leisure activities before their departure. The tour offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of Trivandrum.
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Padmanabhaswamy Temple | Remarkable architectural marvel, one of the wealthiest temples |
Napier Museum | Diverse collection of ancient artifacts |
Sri Chitra Art Gallery | Showcases the region’s artistic heritage |
Shopping | Opportunity for last-minute purchases |
Leisure | Time for relaxation before departure |
Optional Activities
Along With the captivating sightseeing experiences, the Backwater of Kerala Tour offers travelers the opportunity to engage in a variety of optional activities.
Guests can enjoy:
- Canoeing through the serene backwaters, allowing for a closer observation of the lush vegetation and local wildlife.
- Fishing in the tranquil lakes and rivers, an activity that provides a glimpse into the traditional way of life.
- Participating in a village walk, immersing oneself in the daily routines and cultural practices of the local communities.
Plus, travelers can indulge in the renowned Ayurvedic massages available in the coastal town of Kovalam, providing a rejuvenating experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Houseboat?
Yes, you can bring your own food on the houseboat. The tour allows passengers to bring their own snacks and meals, providing more flexibility and personalization during the houseboat cruise experience.
Is Travel Insurance Included in the Tour Package?
The tour package doesn’t include travel insurance. Customers will need to purchase their own travel insurance coverage separately if they want protection against trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events during the tour.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
The tour operator typically allows customers to customize the itinerary to suit their preferences. This includes adding or removing activities, adjusting the duration of stays, and modifying the order of destinations visited. Customization is subject to availability and additional fees may apply.
What Should I Pack for the Tour?
When packing for this tour, it’s recommended to bring comfortable clothing, lightweight rain gear, sun protection, a swimsuit, and any necessary medications. Sturdy walking shoes are also essential for exploring the various sites and activities.
Are There Any Specific Dress Codes to Be Followed?
There are no strict dress codes for this tour, but visitors should wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended for the tropical climate. Casual attire is acceptable throughout the itinerary.
Recap
The Backwater of Kerala Tour offers a memorable 5-day, 4-night journey through the state’s captivating backwaters and cultural highlights. Travelers will explore historic Kochi, cruise along tranquil waterways in Alleppey, discover the vibrant Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and unwind on Kovalam’s stunning beaches. With optional activities like canoeing and Ayurvedic massages, this tour provides an unforgettable experience, immersing visitors in Kerala’s enchanting natural beauty and rich heritage.
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