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ESSENCE OF SOUTH INDIA
Day 1 London to Dubai
Depart London Heathrow on the Emirates flight to Dubai.
Day 2 Dubai to Kochi
Kochi to Munnar – 130 kms
Arrive Dubai and connect with Emirates flight to Kochi. You will be
met and then driven to Munnar. Situated in a part of the Western Ghats
known as the High Ranges, Munnar is home to some of the world’s
highest tea-growing estates. Being 1524m above sea level the ascent
up to the town is punctuated with spectacular scenery, sandalwood
forests and tea plantations. Stay two nights at the Treetop Hotel.
(D)
Day 3 Munnar
Visit the stone Christ Church built in 1910 which has fine stained
glass windows, the local Tea Museum or the Munnar Supply Association,
the oldest department store in the area, that has been a feature of
the town now for over one hundred years. Another place of interest
is the town market which comes to life in the evenings. Alternatively,
Munnar and the surrounding countryside is also perfect for walking
with the nearby Eravikulam National Park offering rewarding walks
and beautiful views of the valleys. (B/L/D)
Day 4 Munnar to Kumarakom – 180 kms
After breakfast proceed by car to the Keralan backwaters where you
will join your private Houseboat for the next two nights.
The houseboats that we use are simply furnished and consist of a thatch-covered lounge and dining area, one or two double bedrooms with mosquito nets and attached bathrooms with a toilet, wash basin and a hand held cold water shower. Thatched awnings on both sides of the boat allow the breeze and views to flow in. Meals are cooked on board and the boat is staffed with a captain, a deck hand and a cook. Spend the remainder of day cruising on the backwaters of Kerala. (B/L/D)
Day 5 Kerala Backwaters
This is a unique opportunity to leisurely explore and enjoy the beauty
and tranquillity of the Keralan backwaters on your own houseboat.
The backwaters consist of a network of lakes, coconut shaded canals
and estuaries – tiled and thatched cottages bright with hibiscus
dot the embankments and the cantilevered Chinese fishing nets hang
over the water’s edge. Witness local life with children swimming
and playing in the water, women attending to their daily chores and
men fishing from their canoes. (B/L/D)
Day 6 Alleppey to Kochi – 65 kms
Morning arrive at Alleppey, disembark and continue by car to Kochi.
Stay two nights at the Casino Hotel. (B)
Kochi is one of India’s most interesting towns, a principle port and the centre of the spice trade on the Malabar Coast. Still largely comprising of low picturesque buildings the islands that make up Kochi are rich in history and retain a relaxed and quiet atmosphere. The first European settlement in India, Kochi was founded by Vasco da Gama in 1502.
Day 7 Kochi
Today explore Fort Kochi starting with a guided walking tour of this
historic area. Visit St Francis Church the oldest European church
in India before walking down to the waterfront to witness the fascinating
Chinese fishing nets and peruse the market stalls. Afterwards, return
to your car to visit Mattancherry Palace, the nearby merchant houses
and a fine synagogue before stepping out and exploring the local streets
which still teem with traders who sell varieties of rice, ginger,
garlic, chilli and antiques from street side warehouses. Around sunset
take a motor launch cruise around the picturesque harbour and witness
Bolghatty Palace and the Chinese fishing nets at this beautiful time
of day. (B)
Day 8 Kochi to Dubai
Dubai to London
Early morning transfer to Kochi airport for your Emirates flight to
Dubai, arriving London Heathrow Terminal Three in the evening local
time. (B)
Planning your journey: We can design a unique journey to suit you as our tours are totally tailor made. By combining your own ideas with our knowledge and experience we can help you to create your own journey tailored exactly to your requirements Once you have formulated your ideas, or if you require some general or specific advice, please call us on 01892 515966 or simply send your ideas to pettitts@btconnect.com. On receipt of your enquiry we will provide you with a full written quotation together with our suggestions and recommendations.
A Guide to Price – ESSENCE OF SOUTH INDIA
Prices vary according to selected airlines, hotels and season, however, an indication to the current cost of this itinerary is from £1,320.00. All prices are per person and are based on a minimum of TWO persons travelling together and sharing a twin bedded room with meals as indicated. If you wish to travel alone we will be pleased to assist you with your arrangements and can provide a proposal on request.
Note: Meal Basis (N) = No Meal; (B) = Breakfast; (L) = Lunch; (D) = Dinner
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