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Kerala Tour

  • Cochin – Periyar – Kumarakom – Alleppey - Backwaters – Kovalam – Trivandrum
  • 0 booked
  • Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
  • Language: English / Hindi
  • Tour type: Theme Experiences
  • Transport: Road Transfers & Houseboat Cruise
  • Accommodation: Hotel / Houseboat / Beach Resort
  • Meals: 9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
  • Group size: 1 to 39 people

Hightlight tour

Cultura sur
Rich Cultural Activities
Comida sur
Cuisine
Cultura sur
Rich Cultural Activities
Comida
Cuisine

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Welcome to Cochin

Upon your arrival at the International Airport in Cochin, your journey begins. Our representative will be there to welcome you, assist with customs and immigration, and help with your baggage collection before transferring you to your hotel. Your first night will be spent in the comfort of the hotel.

2

Day 2: Exploring the Charms of Cochin

After a delightful breakfast, you’ll embark on a journey to explore the captivating city of Cochin. Known as the “Queen of Arabian Sea” due to its splendid natural harbor, Cochin boasts a rich history of trade, culture, and heritage. Your day includes visits to the iconic Chinese fishing nets, the Dutch Palace (please note it is closed on Fridays), the Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, and a fusion of Portuguese and British influences that harmoniously complement Kerala’s heritage. The evening will be enchanted with a performance of Kathakali, a traditional dance of Kerala, as you return to the hotel for a restful night.

3

Day 3: From Cochin to Periyar – Nature’s Wonderland

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set out on a journey to Periyar. The scenic drive covers approximately 158 kilometers and takes about 4 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the hotel. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to witness a variety of wildlife by cruising on Lake Periyar, where animals come to drink. Sail within close range of elephant groups as they feed and bathe. Keep an eye out for statuesque sambar deer, giant wild oxen, or gaur grazing in the marshes. The green, wooded shores may reveal wild boars, monkeys, and an array of birdlife. Your overnight stay will be at the hotel.

4

Day 4: Periyar to Kumarakom – A Symphony of Nature

Before breakfast, immerse yourself in a nature trek led by a local guide, where you’ll become acquainted with the rare birds, trees, and flowers that inhabit the area. Afterward, relish a sumptuous breakfast and set out for Kumarakom, a drive of approximately 155 kilometers taking around 4 hours. Kumarakom is the epitome of relaxation and offers soothing Ayurvedic massages, perfect for rejuvenating during your tour. Here, you’ll encounter notable tourist attractions such as the Water Bird Sanctuary, a Backwater Cruise, and the breathtaking Vembanad Lake. Your overnight stay is in Kumarakom.

5

Day 5: Unleash the Explorer Within in Kumarakom

Today’s adventure is entirely up to you. You have the day to yourself to indulge in independent activities or partake in various tourist offerings as per your preference. Your night’s accommodation is in Kumarakom.

6

Day 6: Houseboat Experience – Navigating Backwater Bliss

After a delectable breakfast, you’ll check out and, around noon, board a traditional Keralan houseboat. These houseboats provide an extraordinary experience as you navigate the narrow canals and channels of Kerala’s backwaters. The journey leads to beautiful, untouched areas where you’ll encounter water birds, colorful flowers, and lush greenery along the banks. Backwater cruises are renowned for their beauty, offering picturesque views of coconut groves, paddy fields, local churches, and the local countryside culture. A hot lunch will be served on the houseboat’s deck. After a day of cruising, the boat will anchor in the backwater by sunset. You can unwind on the boat, sipping a drink and enjoying dinner. Your night’s rest takes place on the houseboat.

7

Day 7: From Kumarakom to Kovalam – A Beach Paradise

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll disembark from the houseboat and head to Kovalam, a journey covering approximately 180 kilometers and taking about 5 hours. Upon your arrival, check-in at your chosen hotel. Kovalam is an internationally acclaimed beach resort known for its year-round pleasant climate. It’s a tropical paradise that offers an array of delightful dining experiences, including both Western and Indian cuisine. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the ambiance of the resort. Your overnight stay is in Kovalam.

8

Day 8: Day of Leisure in Kovalam

Begin the day with a delectable breakfast, followed by free time to explore, relax on the golden sands, or engage in independent beach activities as you please. Your night will be comfortably spent in Kovalam.

9

Day 9: Coastal Relaxation in Kovalam

Enjoy another wonderful breakfast at the resort. This day is fully dedicated to your personal leisure—whether you want to indulge in beachside dining, explore local markets, or try traditional Ayurvedic wellness therapies. Overnight stay at your hotel in Kovalam.

10

Day 10: Farewell to Kovalam – Onward to Trivandrum

It’s time to bid adieu to Kovalam after a soothing breakfast. In a timely fashion, you’ll be transferred from the hotel to the airport in Trivandrum for your onward flight to your next destination, carrying cherished memories of your tropical escape.

This 10-day Kerala Tour captures the absolute essence of “God’s Own Country,” taking you on a journey through historic spice ports, misty wildlife sanctuaries, tranquil backwaters, and pristine tropical beaches.

  • Explore the multilayered history of Cochin, from its iconic Chinese fishing nets and historic synagogues to a mesmerizing evening performance of traditional Kathakali dance.
  • Experience the rich biodiversity of Periyar National Park on a lake cruise, trek through pristine nature trails, glide past emerald paddy fields on an overnight houseboat cruise, and indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic wellness.
  • Enjoy a deeply relaxing coastal finale with three full nights at an internationally acclaimed beach resort in Kovalam, complete with scenic road transfers and curated local experiences.


 

Price includes

  • A guided tour of important places
  • A two-person English-speaking Travel Director and Driver team with you for the duration of your journey 
  • Beautifully illustrated souvenir map
  • Current Hotel Taxes and Service Charges
  • Entrance tickets to monuments and museums mentioned on the itinerary
  • Sightseeing and activities as described in your itinerary 
  • All accommodations – First class or best available hotels in the area based on the hotel price category booked
  • Breakfast daily and some evening meals as described in your trip itinerary.
  • Meals, unless expressly states
  • Observation and participation in allowed activities
  • Professionally guided tour
  • Arrival and Departure Airport transfers
  • Transport to and from hotel listed on itinerary
  • Bottled water

 


 

Price does not include

  • All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes
  • Departure Taxes
  • Visa processing arrangements
  • Extra pre and / or post hotel nights for before and after your trip. These can be booked through Lotus of India and or your Travel Agent and be added during the booking process.
  • Handling fees
  • Excess baggage charge
  • Increases in airfares or Government imposed taxes
  • International Air, unless expressly paid for
  • Medical Travel  insurance and emergency insurance
  • Visas and Travel Insurance.
  • Other International and domestic flights not mentioned on the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Porterage for a maximum of two bags per person.
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities.
  • Services not specifically stated in the itinerary.
  • Tips to guide and driver.
  • Optional Experiences. Optional Experiences are additional add-on experiences unique to the destination that are booked and paid for (credit card or cash) when you are on your tour. As Optional Experiences are pre-bookable, this allows you the flexibility to pick and choose what you feel like when you’re on your trip.
  • Any taxi fares or personal spending money including for non-included items, meals.

 


 

Level of Physical fitness required for the Lotus of India tour?

  • A moderate amount of walking is involved at both attractions.
  •  Check recommended level for travelers with back problems or any other issues.
  • Check the dress codes for proper vestments for religious sites or county customs.
  •    Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, comfortable clothes and hiking or tennis shoes.

 


 

Guidelines for Different Religious Sites

Typical Dress Code for Churches and Cathedrals

  • Churches, particularly in Europe, often require covered shoulders and knees. Bringing a scarf or shawl can be handy if you need to cover up quickly.

Dress Codes in Mosques

  • Mosques typically require women to cover their hair with a scarf or hijab and both men and women to wear long pants or skirts. Some mosques provide appropriate attire at the entrance.
  • Typical Dress Code for Temples and Shrines.
  • In Hindu and Buddhist temples, it is respectful to wear long sleeves and long skirts or pants. Removing shoes is often mandatory, and wearing socks might be required in some places.

Tips for Respectful Attire

  • Removing Hats or Headwear
  • While head coverings may be required in some religious sites, hats and caps are generally considered disrespectful and should be removed before entering.

Layering for Comfort and Respect

  • Bringing a lightweight layer, like a cardigan or shawl, allows you to adapt your outfit as needed. This is especially useful when transitioning from a hot climate outside to a cool interior within religious buildings.

Understanding Local Customs

  • Researching or asking about local customs before visiting can prevent unintentional disrespect. Each religious site may have unique expectations regarding dress code.

 


 

Additional Information

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking and payment
  • Tours can be customized, by request with a multi-lingual guides option: (English, Spanish, French, Italian, German and Portuguese).
  • Daily Tours departures times will be announced by your guide a day prior to the tour date.
  • The tour starts times ranges based on the activity booked.
  • Waiver will need to be signed attesting to good health conditions

 

Cancellation and Refunds Policies

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours after booking payment.
  • In the event of cancellation, Traveler should notify Lotus of India in writing at – least 60 days prior to travel.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made after paid booking before the experience’s start date / time will be subject to modification fees.
  • If the experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers ( 2 ). If it’s canceled because the minimum wasn’t met, you’ll be offered options and recalculated prices.
  • A cancellation fee will be charged by Lotus of India for all cancelled bookings, as per the following cancellation terms.

Land Portions Refund Datelines:  ( Hotels, Tours services, Sightseeing tours )

Number of days prior to Departure Cost of Cancellation (Minimum Cancellation after booking)
120 days or more 15% of the total tour cost
119 to 60 days 25% of the total tour cost
59 to 30 days 50% of the total tour cost
Below 30 days 100% of the total tour cost

 

Map

Frequently Asked Questions - Deposits, Payments & Customers:
  • Foreign travelers often worry about physical strain, especially seniors and couples. Physical comfort is managed proactively rather than reactively. Private tours control walking distances. Vehicles drop travelers close to sites, and visits are planned during less crowded hours.

  • Food concerns are extremely common. Travelers worry about hygiene, food spice levels, and digestive issues. Private tours ensure meals are taken in reputable restaurants and hotels where hygiene standards are controlled. Spice levels are adjusted, and dietary needs are respected. Most food-related problems occur when travelers eat randomly or without guidance.

  • Travel anxiety often peaks around “what if” scenarios. Delays, illness, missed connections, or fatigue worry travelers before booking. Private tours include contingency handling. Drivers, guides and operators respond immediately to changes without traveler involvement. This safety net is one of the strongest reasons foreign travelers choose private tours.

  • Fear of rushed itineraries is common, especially among travelers who have seen aggressive group tour schedules. Private tours are paced according to traveler energy, not preset checklists. Days are balanced, and sightseeing is spread logically. Foreign travelers often say they see less but understand more, which improves satisfaction.

  • India requires more planning than many destinations because of its scale and diversity. Foreign travelers often underestimate travel times, climate differences, and regional variations. Private tour planning absorbs this complexity. Routes are optimized, rest is built in, and seasonal factors are considered. Good planning reduces surprises, which is essential for confidence.

  • There is a misconception that private tours are only for ultra-luxury travelers. Private tours exist across comfort levels. The defining feature is personalization, not price. Even mid-range private tours offer better control and ease than budget independent travel. Luxury private tours simply enhance comfort further through premium hotels and experiences. Foreign travelers choose private tours not to show wealth, but to avoid friction.

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