Kerala Adventure - Family Holiday

14 days - from $1480

Houseboats on the backwaters Elephant training centre Camping in the jungle
We begin this adventure exploring the narrow streets of Cochin. The city was once an old fishing port and nowadays boats can still be seen sailing past huge Chinese fishing nets. We then visit a nearby elephant training centre before heading off to beautifully-located Munnar where we trek amongst the hills for breathtaking panoramic views. From India's most elaborately decorated temple complex at Madurai we then visit Periyar National Park, home to an abundance of colourful birdlife and an array of wildlife. We explore this area on foot and spend a night camping in the lush surroundings. For many the highlight is the overnight trip on board a traditional houseboat along the backwaters of Kerala, followed by the chance to relax on a beautiful tropical beach. 

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Cochin; afternoon sightseeing in Fort Cochin including Chinese fishing nets. 2 Morning visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary; return to Cochin; evening Kathakali dance show (optional). 3 Morning visit Kodanad Elephant Training Centre; optional elephant ride. To Munnar. 4 Visit nearby Annamuda village and walk through beautiful tea estates and hills; back to Munnar via tea museum; afternoon free. 5 To Madurai; optional visit to Gandhi Museum. 6 Morning visit market and colourful Sri Meenakshi Temple; afternoon free to explore town, visit Nayak Palace or go and see a Bollywood movie! 7 To Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and onto the overnight jungle camp; easy trekking options in the afternoon. 8 Explore local village including organic farms; drive to Periyar; optional boat ride on Periyar Lake; evening free. 9 Morning jungle walk safari; afternoon free; evening spice garden walk and optional Keralan martial art show. 10 To Alleppey; board houseboat for backwater cruise. 11 To Thrikunpuzzha and Coir Village resort; optional canoe ride. 12 Visit local village to see coir making; to Kovalam; free time at the beach. 13 Free day at the beach. 14 End Kovalam.

Mode of travel: Flights via Dubai with Emirates. Transport private air-conditioned mini bus and houseboat.
Group size: Normally 6 to 16 plus leader and driver
Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, all en suite, 1 night camping and 1 night on a houseboat. Cruising along on a houseboat through the quiet backwater canals, whilst eating some traditional Keralan food expertly prepared by your crew, is likely to be one of the highlights of your trip to south India.
Food: All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $481.25
Trip Reference: FIK
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Notes: Child must be aged 5 to 11 at time of departure
Trip Reference: FIK