Kerala and Tamilnadu

This trip takes you to the heart of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Starting at the bustling trading port of Kochi (formerly known as Cochin), travel inland to the cool hill town of Munnar before crossing to the temple towns of Tamil nadu. Continue to Periyar, famous for its herds of wild elephants and spice plantations before returning down towards the coast for a relaxing houseboat cruise. Finish with a few days relaxing by the beach at Marari Beach Resort before flying home. This trip will give you a comprehensive introduction to the very different culture, scenery,wildlife and food of Southern India.

Trip information

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Included

Accommodation in double/twin room; all transfers in air-conditioned vehicle; guided tours; entrance fees on all tours.

Is it for you?

This is an easy trip that does not require any particular special fitness. You stay in good hotels and should find this trip runs at a relaxing pace.

Best time

The best time to travel is around October to mid-April. The monsoons season is normally from June to September. The temperature should range from a low of about 22°C to a high of 32°C.

Getting there

Flights from the UK to Cochin cost from £550 to £750 per person.

Weather and highlights

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- Jan
- Feb
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- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
- Sunny
- Sunny
- Sunny
- Sunny
- Sunny
- Rain
- Heavy rain
- Heavy rain
- Rain
- Sunny
- Sunny
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Min Temp

- 7
- 9
- 14
- 20
- 26
- 28
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- 18
- 11
- 8

Max Temp

- 21
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- 31
- 36
- 41
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- 29
- 23

Historic city of Kochi (Cochin)
Backwater boat trip
Periyar wildlife sanctuary
Tea plantations
Amazing temples at Madurai, Trichy and Tanjore
Time at the beach

Itinerary

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Duration: 15 days

Day 1:
Arrive in Kochi and transfer to your hotel in the heart of the historic Fort Cochin district. Stay in Brunton's Boatyard.
Day 2:
A tour of Kochi will be arranged for the morning.in the afternoon, drive to Munnar to stary at Windemere Estate.
Day 3:
A relaxing day to explore Munnar, including a visit to a tea plantation.
Day 4:
It is a fairly long drive from Munnar into Tamil Nadu and the town of Trichy. Stay at the Sangam Trichy.
Day 5:
A guided tour of Trichy and nearby Tanjore will be arranged for today.
Day 6:
Drive to the town of Madurai in the morning to spend the afternoon exploring the famous Sri Meenkashi temple, including an evening visit to see the puja ceremony. Stay at the Tag Garden Retreat.
Day 7:
Drive from Madurai to Periyar, with an afternoon boat trip on Lake Periyar.
Day 8:
There is the chance for a jungle hike in Periyar National Park in the morning with an afternoon boat trip to explore the wildlife.
Day 9:
Drive to Kumarakon to stay at Coconut Lagoon, with the chance to explore the nearby bird sanctuary.
Day 10:
After a free morning, you will be collected by an air-conditioned houseboat for a cruise through the backwaters, sleeping on your houseboat.
Day 11:
Disembark your houseboat in Allepy from where it is a short drive to Marari Beach Resort with the afternoon free to relax.
Day 12:
A free day to relax by the beach.
Day 13:
A free day to relax by the beach.
Day 14:
The morning is free. In the afternoon, return to Kochin for a final night in Brunton's Boatyard, with a Kathkali performance arranged for you final night.
Day 15:
You will be taken to the airport in time for your flight home.

Pricing guidelines for India

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We hope the following will give you a rough idea of costs. These are quoted per person based on twin share for two people, without international flights but including internal flights. We’ve used good standard accommodation throughout. There are nearly always ways to spend more money than we’ve suggested (!), but these prices show a good and realistic range for each type of trip.

International flights will add from about £450 to £700 depending on the season and route (unless the airlines have special offers). India combines well with Nepal.

For a specific personal quote based on any tailor made itinerary you have in mind, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help you.

Example tripPrice per person
1 week Golden Triangle holidayBetween £800 and £2000
2 weeks in northern IndiaFrom about £1500+
2 weeks in southern IndiaBetween £2000 and £3000
11 day wildlife safari (including tigers)From about £1250+

India