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Cochin to Madurai the Backwater, Tea Estate & Temple Tour

Cochin to Madurai the Backwater, Tea Estate & Temple Tour

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8 Days

From

~~$1216~~

$1176

Cochin to Madurai the Backwater, Tea Estate & Temple Tour

8 Days Starting in Kochi, Kerala, India and ending in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India

Visiting: Kochi (Cochin), Alappuzha, Thekkady, Ramakkalmedu, Munnar, Madurai

Tour operator:

Agora Voyages

Tour code:

AGORA656

Recommended For:

Couples, LGBT plus, Singles

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 10

Physical rating:

Low, EASY

Age range:

0-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Kosher

Tour operated in:

English , French , German , Spanish

Private Available:

From:

$1216

$1176 (USD) BLACK FRIDAY SALE @ Tourhub: $40

Tour Overview

Embark on an enchanting journey through the picturesque landscapes of South India with our "Cochin to Madurai: The Backwater, Tea Estate & Temple Tour." Explore the cultural hub of Cochin, witness a Kathakali dance performance, and cruise along the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Immerse yourself in the beauty of tea estates in Munnar, spot wildlife in Thekkady, and visit historic temples in Madurai. Experience the diverse flavors of South India on this captivating private tour.

Highlights

Flexible sightseeing & stopover
Most travelers can participate
This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety
In depth cultural experience
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Places You'll See

Cochin To Madurai The Backwater, Tea Estate & Temple Tour

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Kochi (Cochin)

Location:

Kochi (Cochin)

Arrive Cochin
On arrival at Cochin airport assistance and transfer hotel check in.
Later city tour of Cochin The Gateway of South India. This lovely seaside city is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Cochin has been ruled by the Dutch, British and the Portuguese. Hence you will find here a unique mix and match of traditional as well Western architecture and lifestyle. Sightseeing tour includes visit to Fort Cochin & St. Frances Church to see the town of Vasco da Gama. We also see the Jewish Synagogue & the Mattancherry "Dutch" Palace. Also famous in Cochin are the Chinese fishing nets, which dominate part of the seafront and attract tourists in large numbers, These nets suspended in the mid air all along the coast and are set up on bamboo or teak poles giving an appearance of huge hammock. If you wish you may opt from a variety boat trips offered like Backwater Canal Tour, the sunset cruise, and so on.
In the evening enjoy Kathakali Dance Presentation, a traditional dance form of Kerala with Lavish Costumes, Exotic makeup, Masks etc. This is considered to be the King of theater performances.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 2 : Alappuzha

Location:

Alappuzha

Meals Included:

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Cochin - Alleppey (60kms/ 1.3hrs approx) Backwaters tours sailing boat
Breakfast at hotel, transfer to Alleppey boat jetty to board houseboat and sail through the tropical countryside enchanting backwaters. While sailing enjoy palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either side of the canals, the panoramic sights one can never forget. The Chinese fishing nets the reminiscent of our past trade links are also found on the way. Flocks of duck swimming around the banks and tiny birds flying across the sky remains as enduring pictures reflecting the charm of this tourist land, you also enjoy fishing from the houseboats, evening enjoy sunset from the sun-deck of the houseboats. The Houseboats have generated electricity, sitting cum dining area, separate bedroom with attached English toilets, sun deck and fully loaded kitchen with a Chef, and Driver. Lunch, Dinner and overnight in houseboat.
Overnight at houseboat.

Day 3 : Thekkady

Location:

Thekkady

Alleppey - Thekkady (130kms/ 3hrs)
After breakfast disembark from houseboat and drive to Thekkady check in at hotel. Rest time free and easy to relax. Evening visit Mudra Cultural Centre famous for cultural events that specifically involve the traditional dance form, Kathakali and India's oldest form of martial arts, Kalaripayyattu. You can also witness the laborious preparations the artists have to make before they watch their spectacular performances. Watching one of their shows is the best way to get a glimpse into the rich culture and art of the region.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 4 : Thekkady

Location:

Thekkady

Meals Included:

Breakfast

Thekkady
Breakfast at hotel. Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on a boat. Nestled between the Cheruthoni and Periyar rivers Wildlife Sanctuary is blessed with the most diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary has a gorgeous lake that is perfect for romantic boat rides. The tropical evergreen and deciduous forests teeming with elephants, bison, sambar deer, wild dogs, jungle cats, tiger and wild boar along with various species of snake including cobras, vipers, kraits and many non-poisonous snakes is a wildlife lover’s dream. A variety of birds such as grey jungle fowl, Malabar grey hornbill, woodpeckers and bulbuls also have found a home in this sanctuary.
Afterwards take a spice plantation tour to see crops of cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, coffee, tea estates etc. You could stop at the local market and pick up some fragrant spices.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 5 : Ramakkalmedu

Location:

Ramakkalmedu, Munnar

Meals Included:

Breakfast

Thekkady - Munnar (110kms/ 2hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel drive to Munnar enroute stop at Ramakkalmedu. The place gets its name from the impressions of the feet found on the rock surface here, which is believed to be of Rama, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, as told in the Indian epic Ramayana. Ramakkalmedu is noted for its hills and also for the panoramic and picturesque views of villages in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu, which is towards the eastern side of the Western Ghats. A noticeably tall, pillar-like rocky structure, about 300 m high and facing east is another attraction here. It is one of the windiest places in Asia and being so, one can also find here a wind farm generating electricity, which is an undertaking of the Government of Kerala. Other attractions in-and-around Ramakkalmedu include places like Frog Rock, Turtle Rock and the highest twin-statue in Kerala; called Kuravan and Kurathi.
Continue drive to Munnar check in at hotel. During the British rule in India, Munnar was the summer resort of the Government officials. The natural beauty, calmness and mild cold climate throughout the year make it the favorite tourist places. The tea estates, hills, lakes and forests inside Munnar range expose its beauty.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 6 : Munnar

Location:

Munnar

Munnar
After breakfast visit to Mattupetty (cattle village), the Swiss Livestock Project is a highly specialized dairy farm where over a hundred breeds of highly yielding cattle are reared. Visitors are allowed into three of the eleven cattle sheds at the farm, followed by visit to Pothamedu is one of the major plantation hubs of Munnar. The panoramic view of greenish tea, coffee and cardamom plantation and the cloud kissing mountain is exciting one. The rolling hills, the lush mountain and the breathtaking scenery here is ideal for trekking and Long Mountain walks. Later visit Devikulam famous for its breath-taking locales, scenic spots and for its unique flora and fauna. Right in the heart of this landscape is Sita Devi Lake. The lake, with its picturesque surroundings, mineral water, and trout-fishing and adventure sports facilities, is a favorite tourist destination. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 7 : Madurai

Location:

Madurai

Meals Included:

Breakfast

Munnar - Madurai (160kms/ 3hrs approx)
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Madurai check in at hotel. Later city tour visit the Meenakshi Sundareshwar - one of the largest temple complexes in India built between the 16th and 18th centuries. Apart from the estimated 33 million sculptures there, the temple is absolutely absorbing with the endless rounds of ceremonies, prostration of countless devotees and glittering market stalls. Later visit Tiruparankundram Murugan Temple, Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple. Also visit the Tirumal Nayak’s Palace a highly decorative monument. Its enormous roofed arcade supported by 48 – foot high stone pillar, still stands. In the evening visit the famous Meenakshi Sundareshwar Temple to attend the Aarti (Prayers) witnessing interesting rituals and ceremonies.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 8 : Madurai

Location:

Madurai

Meals Included:

Breakfast

Madurai - Departure
Breakfast at hotel as per flight schedule transfer to airport to board flight for onward destination.

What's Included

Dinner
Breakfast
Lunch
Government taxes.
Deluxe Air-conditioned private vehicle from arrival till departure as per tour program
English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city).
Bottled drinking water in car.
Monument entrance fees & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
7 Nights accommodation in selected price category hotels.
Accommodation

7 Nights accommodation in 4-Star hotels

What's Not Included

Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
Any air fare (international/ domestic)
Camera charges at monuments.

Check out our Q&As

Do you require a visa for this holiday?

Yes, Visa is require for any foreigner entering India.
Is the tour coach air conditioned?

Yes
Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

This is a private tour/activity only for your group. Any country citizen, individual or group can book a private tour for any number of members. We treat every booking as a private tour and we do not mix travelers.
What currencies are required for this tour?

USD, EURO, GBP, JPY, CNY, RMB, SGD, CAD, AUD are accepted at most of the tourist shops. These currencies can easily be changed into local currency INR from money changer at the airport, in cities, and at hotels.
What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

We have provided the price using 3* / 4* & 5* hotels

Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

Domestic flights generally provide 15 kg checked-in baggage and 7 kg hand baggage. We provide vehicle which could accommodate 1 big and 1 handbag easily per person. There is no baggage limit set by us. Traveling with less baggage is always comfortable and recommended.
Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

No. We provide a local English-speaking tour guide in each city. Accompanying tour escort can be booked at a supplement cost
Company Instant Book

Instant confirmation subject to 3 day advance booking.
Will passengers be provided assistance at airport?

Our office representative will receive the guest with the lead passenger name paging board. And
What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

We operate private tours only and guarantee 100% departure. If group members reduced, we will recalculate the price and apply the lowest supplement only if it's increasing our operation cost.
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

Yes, after the sightseeing you will be having time to explore the city and places of your interest. Our driver and transport will remain on disposal at your service. We expect you will release the driver before 8 pm so that he is having ample time to sleep and report on time to your next day duty.
Are vaccinations required for this tour?

Yes. Please check same on your international ticket
Can you provide other than English language guide?

Yes, we can provide other than English language guide. Request for same should be sent to sent to us at the time of booking. Other than English language guide are subject to availability and may attract additional charges.
Are vaccinations required for this tour?

Yes
What currencies are required for this tour?

INR, USD, EURO, GBP, SGD, JPY, CNY, RMB, CAD,
What is the tipping policy?

Recommended tipping is 5 to 10% of total tour values. It's always optional and depends on the traveler's wish.
Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

You have to apply for Indian Visa yourself. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/
Are all entrance fees included in the price?

Yes, entrances to all monuments and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary are well included in the price
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

Yes. On request and at supplement cost, we can provide another language (German, French, Russian, Spanish, Italian guide) subject to availability in that cities.
Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

Most of the hotels offer free Wi-Fi.
What is the maximum group size?

10
Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

Yes
Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

Yes, we can assist and arrange pre or post-tour accommodation.
Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

No. You have to apply for Indian Visa yourself. TOURIST VISA is mandatory for Foreign Nationals to travel India.
Are flights included in this tour?

No. Neither international nor domestic flight tickets are included in the package price. We can book the flight at supplement best available cost.
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

We have provided price for 1 person traveling alone and 2 person sharing double room. Single room supplement apply if 2 person are opting for 2 single rooms.
Are airport transfers included in this tour?

Yes, Private airport transfer is included.
Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

Yes, we will provide all details well in advance before the tour
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

Easy
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

We conduct our business fairly, with honesty, integrity and transparency. We deliver what we promise, and only promise what we can deliver.
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

Less than 10 person group only driver will be your companion. We use local government licenced tour guide in each cities for sightseeing tour.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

We do not operate tour on sharing
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

We are completely flexible in changing the travel dates, until we dont have to bourne any penalty levied by hotels/airline.
How long has the tour company been trading?

5 Yeas
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

Yes, you will support NGO and schooling for kids in villages.
Can I join the tour once it has departed?

We operate private tour/activity only for your group. Hence if you missed to join and tour departed, we can coordinate and you can join the tour from the nearest point.
What documents will I receive before I travel?

Iitnerary and confirmation vouchers
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

Face masks provided for travelers. Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff. Gear/equipment sanitized between use. Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized. Regular temperature checks for staff. Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes

Want a private tour?

Personalise your trip

Make changes to the itinerary, accommodation, or transport method
Travel more exclusively

Your tour guide can focus all their attention on your group
Travel for a special occasion

Celebrate an important event by only travelling with your friends or family

Personalise

Dates & Availability

Dec
2023 Jan
2024 Feb
2024 Mar
2024 Apr
2024 May
2024 Jun
2024 Jul
2024 Aug
2024 Sep
2024

Thursday - Thursday

Dec 07, 2023 - Dec 14, 2023

~~$1216~~ $1176 (USD)