OVERVIEW- Goa with Exotic Kerala tour brings the best of attractions of both these cities. It is a fine repertoire of natural treasures with sandy beaches, palm-fringed backwaters and wildlife reserves. Kerala is referred to as god own country as the place is covered with pristine beaches, exotic backwaters, coconut trees, mouth tingling cuisines and most prominently the rich culture and heritage, that makes Kerala one of the major global destinations. Similarly, Goa is also a tourist paradise thanks to its tropical beaches, colonial ambience and Portuguese heritage to name a few.
GOA- A Tourist Paradise, Goa has magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendors of temples, churches and old houses. Popularly called as The Pearl of the Orient has much more than just beaches and seas. The natural landscapes, the waterfalls, the forests, the spice farms, all are unique in their own way that truly shows an entirely new side of Goa. Goa is the perfect place where you will find a blend of traditional and modern aspects of life.
KOCHI (COCHIN) - Kochi is the commercial capital and the most cosmopolitan city of Kerala, Kochi along with its mainland part, Ernakulum is also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. With one of the finest natural harbors in the world, Kochi is the most modern city of Kerala where the best shopping markets are located.
MUNNAR- Munnar amidst beautiful landscapes often referred as the Kashmir of South India is more essentially a tea town. It is a commercial centre for tea and it has some of the highest grown tea estates in the world. It also takes the credit of having the world's best tea estates.
PERIYAR- Periyar in the southernmost state of Kerala is one of the sixteen Project Tiger reserves in India, and one of the most picturesque and beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in the world. With its waterways, forests and grasslands, it provides a magnificent venue for both mammal and bird watching.
ALLEPPEY- Alappuzha Beach (Alleppey) also famous as 'The Venice of the East', is blessed with the silvery waves of the Arabian Sea. This beach is the best backwater destinations in Kerala. Alappuzha is one of the most romantic and beautiful place with land between the sea and network of rivers falling into it into it. The Palm fringed canals, shores bustling with glimpses, the mirror still lagoons, picture book lakesides and its long sandy beach has blessed Alappuzha. The other God gift to Alappuzha is the dense palm groves which lines the shore.
KUMARAKOM- Kumarakom is a cluster of islands on the Vemband Lake. Apart from this Kumarakom is also of interests to the ornithologists for the backwater section boasts of a bird sanctuary and exhibits a rich flora and fauna and is marked as one of the important Aqua Tourism destination. The major attraction of Kumarakom is the local houseboats known as Kettuvalloms. Most of these Ayurvedic centers are attached to the resorts in a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere which contributes for rejuvenation and healing.
TRIVANDRUM- Trivandrum now called Thiruvananthapuram is an ancient seaside city built on seven hills. It is one of the major business centre and busiest harbor in the country. Capital of God Own Land, Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram is one of the most beautiful and greenest cities of India. The city features long stretches of serene backwaters, beautiful palm fringed beaches, historic monuments and revered shrines.
Please Note : This is just a suggested itinerary indicative of what could be possible. We tailor holidays for your specific needs. Contact us if you want modifications so that we could tailor a holiday to suit your need for an unforgettable India tour.
Tour Destination: Goa - Kochi - Munnar - Thekkady (Periyar) - Alleppey - Kumarakom - Trivandrum
Travel Duration: 13 Nights/14 Days
DAY 1: GOA- Welcome to Jewel of India Goa. Transfer to the hotel. Later in the day, visit the gothic churches, crumbling forts, temples, beaches, coconut groves and villages.
PANAJI- The capital of Goa, and was called Panjim during the reign of Portuguese. It is one of the India smallest and most charming state capital.
VASCO DA GAMA- The town was originally called Sambhaji. This well planned coastal town is the oldest railway terminus.
In the evening you can walk around a beach and relax. One can enjoy Mandovi River Cruise which has food, drinks, and live bands performing Goan dances.
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 2: NORTH GOA BEACH TOUR- Get ready to visit the most famous beaches and other attractions of North Goa.
BEACHES- Goa is famous for its lovely golden beaches. The beaches here have been accepted as a matter of life, the exotic cuisine backing the pleasure of have on sun and sand, water sports like water scooters and water gliding, a glass of fenny and beer, shopping on the beachside, and most romantic midnight bonfire on the beach. Enjoy on the beach at sunset, meditate and feel relaxed. Some beaches are popular for its nightlife with some very famous clubs such as Britto's, Tito's and Mambos.
SOME OF THE POPULAR BEACHES ARE- Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Condolim Beach, Dona Paula Beach, Vagator Beach and many more
In the evening, visit to any of the restaurants to taste a variety of seafood, that also includes various kinds of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Also one can choose of visiting the exciting casinos in Goa.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 3: NORTH GOA CHURCH TOUR- Get ready to visit the most famous churches of North Goa.
CHURCHES- The most famous churches in Goa that attract large number of visitors are Goa Basilica of Bom Jesus which is a world heritage monument and Goa Se Cathedral which is dedicated to St. Catherine. The other important churches are the Church of Condolim Church, St Francis of Assini, Church of Lady of Rosary, Church of St Cajatan and The Rochal Seminary.
OTHER TOURIST SPOPTS- Fort Aguda, Goa Science Centre, Dona Paula etc.
In the evening visit the various Goa flea markets which sell a variety of items like clothes, jewelry, spices and accessories. Music and dance performances are also a part of the flea markets, the most popular of which are Anjunna Wednesday Flea market, Arpora Saturday Night market, Mapusa Friday market and Calangute Bazaar.
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 4: SOUTH GOA TOUR- Get ready to visit the most famous beaches and other attractions of South Goa which are less frequented by tourists and are oases of solitude and tranquility.
SOME OF THE POPULAR BEACHES ARE- Agonda Beach, Benaulim Beach, Palolem Beach, Majorda Beach and Colva Beach, among others.
MARGOA- Goa second largest city and commercial metropolis of South Goa. It is famous for its ancient cultural heritage and traditional customs of the people of Goa.
You can take a leisurely stroll, revel in the soothing ambience and enjoy delicious food at the shacks or at a local eatery. You could also try out several kinds of adventure sports.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 5: LOCAL GOA- Today take your own time, visit casinos, relax on the beaches, and enjoy water sports like windsurfing, jet skiing, water skiing, paragliding etc. Go out for shopping; buy the souvenir of this magnificent land as a memorable sojourn. The most popular of the souvenir items are the excellent local handicraft items. The handicrafts items include brassware, terracotta, shell work, crochet, carved furniture, bamboo work, papier-mache etc
The famed cashew nuts of Goa is another most wanted items of the tourists. The nuts are available in a wide variety of tastes ranging from plain, salted and masala. The prices vary based on the quality and flavor.
For the fashion lovers Goa has many fashion shops, located in fabulous old Goan houses. These shops make the best selections in home styling and fashion available to the tourists at quite reasonable prices.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 6: GOA - KOCHI- After breakfast, transfer to airport to catch flight to Kochi. Later transfer to hotel. In the evening visit
MARINE DRIVE- A stroll along the long tree-lined coastal pathway that lines the backwater is well worth the time spent, especially late afternoon or dusk. The bustling backwaters, dotted with fishing boats, speedboats, ships, tankers and passenger boats, can be observed from this walkway that lines the coast.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 7: KOCHI- After breakfast, full day city tour of The Queen of Arabian Sea- Kochi
CHINESE FISHING NETS, FORT KOCHI- The Chinese fishing nets (Cheenavala) are distinctly unique to Cochin. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here. Oddly, these nets are found only in Kochi, outside China! Many fishermen earn their livelihood by fishing using these massive nets. A whole stretch of the coast along Fort Kochi and Vypeen are dotted with these nets.
FORT KOCHI BEACH- A stroll along the beach, particularly at sunset with the Chinese fishing nets and sailing ships in the background, is a memorable experience. Many European style bungalows can be seen along the shoreline. The coastal stretch has loads of small stalls, which make on demand mouth-watering traditional cuisines using freshly caught fish.
ST. FRANCIS CHURCH- It is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. On his 3rd visit to Kerala, Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader who reached India from Europe by sea, fell ill and died in Kochi. He was buried in the St. Francis Church. Later his remains were taken back to Portugal.
DUTCH PALACE- The Palace was originally built by the Portuguese. Later, in 17th century, the Dutch modified it and presented it to the Raja of Kochi. The palace has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharata and Ramayana.
JEWISH SYNAGOGUE- The synagogue, built in 1568, is magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. Giant scrolls of the Old Testament can be found here. It is located near the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry.
BOLGHATTY PALACE- This Dutch palace is situated on Bolghatty Island which is just a short boat ride away from the mainland. The island has a tiny golf course and the panoramic views of the port and the harbor, makes it an attractive picnic spot.
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 8: KOCHI - MUNNAR- In the morning after breakfast, start driving towards the beautiful hill station of Munnar. Transfer to hotel. Later embark on a sightseeing tour in and around Munnar.
TEA PLANTATIONS- A vast expanse of tea plantations, winding roads, passionate climate and royal gardens make this hill station, Munnar, the Darjeeling of the south.
ATUKKAD WATERFALLS- Located on the way to Pallivasal amidst dense vegetation; the Atukkad Waterfalls is one of the major tourist attractions in Munnar. The water is cold and is also known as a great trekking hotspot in Munnar.
MATTUPETTI DAM- The dam is situated 13 km off Munnar at 1700m above the sea level, is highly famous for the Indo-Swiss live stock projects. This picnic spot is also popular among its visitors for various activities like speed boating and horse riding.
ECHO POINT- A very beautiful place to visit when in Munnar, which is itself situated at the confluence of three mountain streams- Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala and hence is a very scenic place to visit, Echo Point got its name from the natural echo phenomenon that occurs here. Echo Point is situated at a serene, calm lake bank.
ERAVIKULAM NATIONAL PARK- The protected forest is located at an average elevation of 2000 meters above sea level and is home to several endemic and rare species of flora, fauna, reptiles and avifauna totaling at a whopping 750 species. The Eravikulam National Park is a home to rare and endangered species like Tiger, Leopard, Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Indian Muntjac and Sambar Deer, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Wild dog and Dhole.
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 9: MUNNAR - PERIYAR- After breakfast, drive to Periyar. Transfer to hotel. Later visit
PERIYAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY- Periyar wildlife sanctuary and National Park in the Thekkady region of Kerala is an apt example of nature bounty that boasts of a rich bio-diversity in terms of flora and fauna. Best way to explore its magnetic natural surroundings and amazing wildlife is not a guided walk trip, but a boat trip in the adjoining Periyar Lake. The lake is branched into various creeks and islets that are certainly the prominent habitats of the wildlife prevailing in the region.
PERIYAR LAKE & BOAT RIDE- Periyar Lake is a beautiful artificial lake in the heart of Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. Boat ride is the best way to explore the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. Taking a boat ride in the lake of Periyar to explore the wildlife attractions and view the birds of the sanctuary offers a mesmerizing experience.
In the evening you can sit back and relax.
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 10: PERIYAR - ALLEPPEY- In the morning after breakfast, start driving towards the one of the most popular backwater destinations of Kerala- Alleppey. On arrival, check in a traditional House Boat of Kerala, 24 hours cruise through the backwaters, fabulous way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters.
ALLEPPEY BEACH- The Alleppey beach is one of the cleanest and well maintained beaches in Kerala. It's very spacious, airy with good sceneries. It's a very quiet beach where you can have the best picnic spot with the sun setting. It will be an exhilarating experience.
Overnight in Houseboat
DAY 11: ALLEPPEY - KUMARAKOM- Today check put of the houseboat at drive to the beautiful backwater village- Kumarakom.
VEMBANAD LAKE- The Lake emits the hues of sapphire and emerald. The sight of emerald green coconut fringes flanked by the sapphire led backwaters is a treat for eyes. With 96 km length and 14 km width, Vembanad Lake is recognized as the longest lake in India and largest water reservoir in Kerala.
KUMARAKOM BIRD SANCTUARY- Unique and diverse typography of Kumarakom is home to some of the peculiar variances of birds. This 14-acre bird sanctuary is sprawling on the eastern banks of the Vembanad Lake. As per the fact, the bird sanctuary was earlier a tree plantation. A vast variety of birds including endangered species like waterfowl, egret, heron, cormorant and Brahminy kite can be spotted here. A leisure walk through the lush green forest will show tourists the best of Kumarakom. A cruise along the Vembanad Lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary.
In the evening you can sit back and relax.
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 12: KUMARAKOM - THIRUVANANTHAPURAM- After breakfast drive the capital city of God's own country Kerala- Thiruvananthapuram. Transfer to hotel. After freshen up visit
KOVALAM BEACH- Paradise of the South, Kovalam is famous for its beautiful beaches and tourist resorts and is located just 9 km south of Somatheeram. There are three beaches here- Light House Beach, Hawah Beach and Samudra Beach. One to the south is the Light House beach and is the most popular.
THIRUVALLAM BACKWATERS- The meeting place of two rivers Killi and Karamana, Thiruvallam backwaters is a beautiful place and is very popular for canoe rides. A temple in honor of Lord Parashurama, believed to be the creator of Kerala, is at Thiruvallam which attracts devotees from far and wide.
Overnight at hotel.
DAY 13: THIRUVANANTHAPURAM- After breakfast visit
PADMANABHASWAMY TEMPLE- A wealthy and popular temple of India, Padmanaswamy Temple with its brilliant Dravidian architecture is dedicated to Lord Padhmanabha (Vishnu). This is one amongst 180 Divya Desams in India which are holiest abodes of Lord Vishnu.
PONMUDI HILLS- Ponmudi is an unspoiled hill-station in Thiruvananthapuram, having a thick carpet of forest rolling down to the foothills. And to add on more charm, tea gardens are located in the locale. The town is a treasure for nature-lovers and adventure enthusiasts who like to partake in activities like mountaineering, rock climbing and trekking.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 14: THIRUVANANTHAPURAM DEPARTURE
Day free for leisure, and depart to airport to catch flight towards onward destination.
Distance & Time (Approx)
Goa at a Glance
Kochi at a Glance
Munnar at a Glance
Periyar at a Glance
Alleppey at a Glance
Kumarakom at a Glance
Thiruvananthapuram at a Glance
For Tour Packages, Vehicle Rental and Customer Care Support.
+91 9999 31 7846
booking@asparkholidays.com