A journey on the backwaters of Kerala is an ideal holiday as it allows you to experience nature in all its variations in the state of Kerala. This holiday will take you on a cruise of the backwaters and will give you an opportunity to stay in the quaint Kerala Houseboats. The tour will not only cover the backwaters but also some important wildlife reserves and a bird sanctuary allowing you to explore the wildlife in the state.

Day 01 Mumbai (Bombay)

Arrive at Mumbai International airport. On arrival transfer to hotel where the guest will be get a traditional Indian welcome that includes Aarti-Tikka and garlands. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 02 Mumbai (Bombay)

In the morning take an hour-long boat ride across Mumbai Harbour to the Elephanta Island. Visit the intricately craved Elephanta Caves that were built in the 8th century. In the afternoon take the City tour of Bombay. Visit the Gateway of India, Towers of Silence, Marine Drive, and the Dhobi Ghat etc. Drive to Malabar Hill to visit the Hanging Garden, Kamla Nehru Park and Mani Bhawan, a museum dedicated to the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi and Crawford Market. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 03 Mumbai/Kochi (Cochin)/Periyar

Take the morning flight to Kochi. On arrival transfer to hotel for lunch. After lunch drive to Periyar (190kms). On arrival check in at the hotel. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in part of the Cardamom Hills on the Western Ghats and is one of the largest wildlife reserves in India. Spend the night at the hotel.

Day 04 Periyar/Kumarakom

Early in the morning take a boat-cruise on the Lake, in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, to watch the wildlife. The lake is an artificial one created by a dam on the Periyar River. Watch wild elephants, Asiatic deer, black buck and tigers at the lake. After breakfast take a guided walk around the village to see how different spices are grown. Then drive through the winding Ghats and lush green tea plantations to reach Kumarakom (190kms), an enchanting backwater village with palms and paddy fields on the shores of the sparkling Vembanad Lake. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 05 Kumarakom- Houseboat

In the morning take a cruise on the backwaters in a traditional country canoes called “vanjis” and watch the activities of the local people on the backwaters. Visit the bird sanctuary. After lunch at the hotel board the traditional rice boats or “Ketuvallam” and set out on your journey through the charming backwaters taking in the tranquil beauty of God’s Own Country. Spend the night on this houseboat and enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine made from fresh local produce and cooked on board.

Day 06 Houseboat/Mararikulam

Breakfast on board the houseboat. Sail to Alleppey and get off at Puthenagady Jetty. From here travel to Mararikulam (30kms). This is one of the scenic fishing villages that form the pleasant coastline of Kerala. The beach is fringed with lush green coconut palms. Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 09 Kochi (Cochin)/Mumbai (Bombay)

Take the morning flight to Mumbai. On arrival transfer to hotel and the rest of the day is at your leisure.

Day 10 Mumbai (Bombay)

Transfer to International airport for onward flight.