Kerala Wildlife and Hill Stations

After breakfast proceed for Bird Watching at Kumarakam Bird Sanctuary, an ornithologists’ heaven. Afternoon fishing by the Lake. Evening at lesiure. Night stay in Kumarakom.

Morning Drive to Periyar (130Km drive). The Periyar Forest is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India. Lying at an altitude of 900 – 1800m above sea level and spread across 777sq.Km, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, it’s the only sanctuary in India where you can view wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. Periyar’s biggest attractions are the Herds of Elephants that come down to water and play lakeside. Transfer to hotel. Later proceed for bamboo rafting expedition where you will get an opportunity to spot a large number of birds Night stay in Periyar.

Start the day with a short Trek inside the Sanctuary followed by a two hour Boat Ride. Evening leaves you free to explore the local Spice Markets at Kumily, a small town 4Kms from Thekkady. Night stay in Periyar.

After breakfast depart for Munnar, 110Kms away; situated 1600m above sea level. Munnar is a Hill Station, once the Summer Resort of the ‘British Raj’, Government of South India. Sprawling Tea Plantations, winding lanes and good holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Munnar tea gardens spread like a green carpet over hundreds of kilometers, lust green hills, a place so difficult to describe, very low population too far from pollution, most of the covered by Tata tea. Also the Raja Malai, a top peak of Munnar where you can see Neel Thar (mountain goats), Muttupetty dam, Indo Swiss project; you can also enjoy boating in the Lake (optional). Night stay in Munnar.

Trek through the Silent Valley where you can trek up to Meesapulimala, literally meaning 'The mountain of the Whiskered Tiger'. This is a spectacular trek passing through sholas, (high altitude mountainous forest or cloud forests) pine forests, rolling grasslands across myriad mountain streams and spectacular valleys. Sightings of elephants, gaur, Nilgiri Thar are highly possible. Night stay in Munnar.

After breakfast drive to Cochin (150Kms drive). Cochin, A port town since early centuries, Cochin attracted traders and invaders from the world over. Cochin offers some fascinating snippets of history and culture. Also known as the spice coast of India. Cochin is a fascinating blend of cultures. Spend teh day shopping in the busy bazaars of cosmopolitan Cochin. Enjoy a full body Ayurveda massage today. Night stay in Cochin.

After breakfast proceed for sightseeing in Cochin, that takes you very close to the regions History on the international stage - The Hill Palace Museum, a fully-fledged archeological museum and Kerala’s first ever Heritage Museum are the main attractions (closed on Mondays). Chinese Fishing Nets, this unique style of huge cantilevered fishing nets were erected between 1350 and 1450 AD by traders from the Court of Kubla Khan, a Chinese King. Santa Cruz Basilica, this historic church was built by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558. Pope John Paul II proclaimed the Church a Basilica in 1984. The Jewish Synagogue, constructed in 1568, this is the oldest Synagogue in the Commonwealth (closed on Saturdays & Jewish Holidays).

The area around the Synagogue, called Jew Town, is the centre for Spice & Handicraft shops. Mattanchery Palace (Dutch Palace), built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presented to the Regent of Kochi (closed on Fridays). Evening Witness Kathakali the famous dance drama of kerala. This dance is characterised by some great story telling, amazing costumes and extensive make-up. Start early to see the artist preparing themselves for the show (5 PM ). Watch in detail the ritual worth seeing hour long process of make-up as part of our daily KATHAKALI performance. After the Performance, you will have a unique opportunity to take photographs along with the artists in colorful costumes as a souvenir. Entire performance will be supported with commentary in English. Night stay in Cochin.

Transfer to Cochin Airport to board the onward flight.