Chennai : Chennai, formally known as Madras, has developed over the centuries from a small fishing village into a bustling metropolis. Representing the Dravidian civilization, the city upholds the music, drama, dance, architecture, arts, crafts and sculpture of India. It is known for Carnatic music and the birth place of Bharatnatyam, the oldest classical dance in India. It is also nicknamed "The Detroit of India", as more than one-third of India's automobile industry is based in the city. Chennai is a unique city that is as trendy as it is traditional.

Arrive Chennai and after having done all the formalities of immigration, baggage, and customs as you exit the arrival halls, you will be greeted by a Lumle Holidays representative waiting to receive you with a placard bearing your name.

You will then be assisted and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Expert Tips / Standard check-in time at hotels is 1400 Hours.

Trident Chennai Hotel : Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital city of Tamil Nadu, the southern-most state of India. Located off the Bay of Bengal, it was one of the first outposts of the British East India Company and still has many remnants of its colonial past. Chennai offers an eclectic mix of sandy beaches, heritage buildings and is a modern, vibrant centre for commerce and industry.

An oasis of warmth and soothing environs, the Trident Chennai Hotel welcomes visitors with its elegant, low-rise design spread over 5 lush acres of verdant gardens. Located conveniently close to the airport and the new business districts of the city of Oragadam, Mahindra World City, Maraimalai Nagar and Guindy, the hotel is only a 10 minute drive from the Chennai Trade Centre.

The 167 rooms and suites, tastefully appointed in muted and earthy tones, combined with handcrafted furniture and convenient amenities, are designed to make guests feel at home.

After breakfast, visit the Government Museum.

The museum complex consists of six buildings and 46 galleries. Visit Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India. The fort currently houses the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly. Visit St. Mary’s Church which houses the oldest graveyard associated with the Imperial rule in India. Drive to Marina Beach for a stop to take photos.

Later take a heritage walk through Dakshinachitra with our expert. Uncover the stories of iconic houses from the southern states.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Optional Activities

Chennai / Simply South Trail, Chennai

Chennai : Chennai, formally known as Madras, has developed over the centuries from a small fishing village into a bustling metropolis. Representing the Dravidian civilization, the city upholds the music, drama, dance, architecture, arts, crafts and sculpture of India. It is known for Carnatic music and the birth place of Bharatnatyam, the oldest classical dance in India. It is also nicknamed "The Detroit of India", as more than one-third of India's automobile industry is based in the city. Chennai is a unique city that is as trendy as it is traditional.

Overview Simply South Trail, Chennai : Dakshinachitra has long been a legend for being a rich and exciting open-air museum of heritage, art, architecture, crafts and performing arts of South India. This fascinating cultural hub fascinates with its many narratives of people involved with it and those who have come to imbibe of its many charms.Each house is a treasure trove of stories. Every door has a tale to tell and every courtyard a scene for much activity.

Why you will love it!!

(a) A fascinating walk through Dakshinachitra, a museum of heritage houses from South India.

(b) Uncovering the stories of iconic houses from the southern states and what they say about the communities they were home to

(c) Enjoying a profound and lively experience of one of Chennai’s most important hotspots dedicated to the conservation of southern cultures

Puducherry : Puducherry – previously known as Pondicherry – is made up of four entirely separate enclaves along the Indian coast, all of which were colonized by the French in the 18th century. Named after the largest of these enclaves, this union territory has retained a strong European culture that makes it unlike any other place in India. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Puducherry district, dubbed the ‘French Riviera of the East, where antiquated colonial buildings line the quiet cobbled streets and tree-lined avenues of the old town, and many people still speak French as their first language.

Post breakfast check out of the hotel and proceed for sightseeing of Mahabalipuram.

Mahabalipuram famous for being a sculptor’s delight. There are 14 cave temples, nine monolithic rathas, three stone temples and four relief sculptured rock panels. Built in the Dravidian style in the 7th and 8th century, most of them are dedicated to Vishnu or Shiva. Sights include the Shore temple (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Arjuna’s Penance, the Five Rathas and various mandapams etc. The sculptures here depict deities, animals, Hindu fables, and scenes of everyday life. Continue to drive to Pondicherry.

Upon arrival in Pondicherry, check-in at the hotel and relax.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Palais de Mahe : In the heart of the historic French Quarter, Palais de Mahé in Pondicherry is a characterful, colonial retreat with a courtyard pool, sea-showcasing roof terrace and luxurious, lofty rooms. The Bussy Street setting is a (skimming) stone’s throw from the seafront and its picturesque promenade, with the Bay of Bengal ushering in welcome breezes come the heady high summer. Local art is displayed regularly and the food is fabulous: expect to eat innovative Indian dishes with European influences in another nod to the days of French rule.

Activities : Mahabalipuram / The Shore Temple

Mahabalipuram : The ancient port town of Mamallapuram is a charming tourist hub that has been attracting travelers for centuries. It was known already in Marco Polo’s day as the “Seven Pagodas" alluding to the seven-tiered towers that once stood on the shore, of which one - the Shore Temple, still stands. The port is famous for its stone carvings, which have World Heritage Site status. Impressive cave temples, monolithic rathas (chariots), and sculpted reliefs built by the Pallavas in the 7th and 8th centuries form this group of monuments. After sightseeing, enjoy an Indian thali meal or chai tea at one of the bustling diners in town.

The Shore Temple : It is believed that there were seven magnificent temples what are known as the seven pagodas, built near the sea share. But the lonely survivor is the shore temples. It was originally constructed during the 7th century and later it was Narasimha Varman II, (Rajasimha) completed the skilled work in his rule. This is one of the oldest of the south Indian Temples which were structural temples constructed in the nature Dravidian style. This shore temple has gained popularity and tourists gather here because it has been listed among the world heritage sites of the UNESCO. The temple is full of designs made by carvings. There are three temples of which two Shiva Temples face east and west respectively. The other one is the Vishnu Temple. The Vishnu temples were built by Narasimha Varman I and the other two were built by Narasimha Varman II. One can find the beautifully carved twin Dwarka Palaks (gate keepers) at the entrance of the east facing Shiva Temples. On both sides of the temple inside are the marvelous sculptures of Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu with their better halves. The top part of the Shivalinga figure inside the temple is found damaged. There are sculptures of Somaskanda - lord Shiva with his better half, Parvati, and his sons, Skanda and Ganesha are found on the near wall. Apart from Lord Shiva’s sculpture, one can find the sculptures of Narasimha and Goddess Durgha also.

The central shrine is in the form of a rectangle. It has a magnificent statue of lord Vishnu which is known as Sthala Shayana Perumal or Ananthasayana which means sleeping Vishnu. The peculiarity about this particular temple is - Vishnu reclines on the floor listening silently the sounds of names. The figure of Vishnu is found in segments which are to be looked through various doors. The other sculpture is portrayed in such a may that Lord Vishnu seated in mount Garuda helping Gajendra, the elephant, found in the southern wall and the northern wall is the portrayals from the life of lord Krishna. The grand temple is surrounded by mandapas and compound walls. There is a rock-cut of a lion rode by two young women. The lion has a small cut, a square shaped cut in its belly. A Huge rock near by the temple has been the target of the waves to touch it from the ancient days. There is also a carving of a buffalo demon running with a stick in his hand, located in the northern side. The temple looks beautiful due to the lights during weekend evenings.

After breakfast visit Auroville, Aurobindo Ashram, Government museum & The Sacred Heart Basilica.

Auroville city, conceived by Mirra Alfassa (The Mother) the spiritual collaborator of Sri Aurobindo, was built initially as a city where people could live with peace and progressive harmony, above all creeds, politics and nationalities.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram visit has grown from a small group into a large community. The focus of community life is the Ashram main building which consists of blocks of houses which are adjoined. This is also where Sri Aurobindo and the mother lived for most of their lives.

Head to the Pondicherry Museum features many bronze sculptures from the Chola Empire. The archaeological dig at Arikamedu has provided the museum with fascinating items.

After museum visit The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Located in Puducherry, India, The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus features Gothic architecture in the form of stained-glass panels portraying occurrences in the life of Christ and saints of the Catholic church. This 100-year-old church boasts statues of the four evangelists and is illuminated inside and out with chandeliers, focus and floodlights.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Expert Tips / The government museum is closed on Mondays

Activities : Auroville/Sri Aurobindo Ashram/Pondicherry Museum

Auroville : Located in Puducherry, India, Auroville is a community that was born on the 28 February 1968. Its founder created the Auroville Charter which consists of four main ideas, underpinning her vision for Auroville. When Auroville came into being, All India Radio (AIR) broadcast the charter live in 16 languages. Aurovilians apply the ideas of the Auroville Charter in their daily life, in policy-development, and decisions, big and small. The charter thus forms an omnipresent referent that silently guides the people who choose to live and work for Auroville.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram : Located in Puducherry, India, Sri Aurobindo Ashram has grown from a small group into a large community. The focus of community life is the Ashram main building which consists of blocks of houses which are adjoined. This is also where Sri Aurobindo and the Mother lived for most of their lives.

Pondicherry Museum : Located in Pondicherry, India, Pondicherry Museum features many bronze sculptures from the Chola Empire. The archaeological dig at Arikamedu has provided the museum with fascinating items.

Thanjavur : Situated between Trichy and the coast of Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur is an important center for South Indian religion, art, and architecture. It is also an agricultural hub, fondly known as the ‘rice bowl of Tamil Nadu’. Its most visited monument is Brihadeeswara Temple located at the center of the city. It has a style of painting called Tanjore, which is unique to the region. The temple is part of the Great Living Chola Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thousands of people still worship at Brihadishwara Temple every day.

After breakfast, check-out of the hotel and you will be transferred in your private car to Tanjore (approx. 5.5 Hrs). Enroute we will visit Chidambaram and Darasuram Temple.

Chidambaram - A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the heart of the temple town of Chidambaram,Tamil Nadu).The temple , 78 km south of Pondicherry and 235 Km from Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu state of southeastern India. The Sangam classics refer to Viduvelvidugu Perumtaccan, respected clan of traditional Vishwakarmas, as being the chief architect of the temple renovation. There have been several renovations in its history, particularly during the days of Pallava/Chola emperors in ancient and pre-medieval periods. Chidambaram is one of the five holiest Shiva temples, each representing one of the five natural elements.

Darasuram - Darasuram Airavateswarar Shivan Temple built by the Rajaraja II is 5km southwest of Kumbakonam. The temple's musical pillars, chariot mandapam, sculptures and the 5 storey 85 feet tall Vimanam is said to be a 'Sculptor's dream in stone'. Darasuram has the finest Chola sculptures of black basalt images on the shrine walls. Darasuram was known as Rajarajapuram. Airavateswarar Shivan is smaller than the Periya Kovil and Gangai Konda Choleeswaram. The Periya Nayaki Amman temple was once a part of the complex, but with the outer wall of the temple being destroyed over the years, it looks as if it is a separate temple.

On arrival, check-in to your accommodation and relax.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Svatma : Get ready to embark on a beautiful journey as you cross the threshold of this century old house, Svatma, Tanjore has been remarkably restored by its owner, architect and designer. Each room is unique, and the building abounds with little nooks, verandahs and patios for moments of solitude or conviviality, depending on your desires. Throughout the hotel, objects and artwork illustrate Tamil Nadu’s rich culture, inspiring you to discover more. Cooking classes, yoga sessions, introductory courses to Vedic chants and demonstrations of local dances are among the activities that offer you the chance to delve deeper into this area’s heritage. The experience continues with the meals that feature artistically presented vegetarian Tamil cuisine.

Activities : Chidambaram

Chidambaram : Today we head to Chidambaram Temple, which lies between two rivers on a 40-acre site and is one of the oldest, most venerable and magnificent temples in South India. Shiva Natraja, or the Dancing Shiva, stands in his cosmic dance posture on a golden background in the Sanctum Sanctorum. The temple is flanked by 108 sculpted illustrations of the Bharat Natya Shastra

Today after a leisurely breakfast, proceed for the sightseeing tour of Thanjavur.

Visit the famous Brihadeeshwara Temple also known as the “Big Temple” that was built between 985 and 1012 AD by Rajaraja I and is a World Heritage monument. It is a magnificent structure with a 14-story high vimana and a towered sanctuary that houses the main deity. A dome carved from an 80-ton single block of granite tops the vimana. An enormous Nandi bull, the traditional vehicle for Shiva guards the entrance to the main sanctuary. According to legend, the Nandi Bull grew every year until it was threatening to overwhelm the temple. Ultimately a nail was driven into its back to prevent its growth. Built mainly of granite, the temple has superb inscriptions and sculptures of Shiva, his consort Durga and Vishnu.

During the tour, you will also visit the Tanjore Art Gallery, which houses religious paintings. This form of art evolved and flourished under the patronage of Hindu rulers, Nayaks and Marathas in the 17th and 18th centuries in Tanjore.

Visit the Royal Palace and Museum. A remarkable collection of South Indian sculptures and paintings is housed in the old palace buildings at Thanjavur (Tanjore). The palace was originally built by the Nayak rulers of Tamil Nadu. It was this dynasty that added to and enlarged many of the temples with ornate and often huge sculptures. The palace building set within a large compound also contains the Saraswati Library and the Sangeetha Sabha or Music Hall.

Afterwards, proceed to experience a session of Bronze Casting and Tanjore Painting at a local shop. These artists have mastered this art for generations now.

The bronze casting artist will show you the entire process starting from molding to casting to chiseling (all of course with different pieces). They are very friendly and are happy to show their crafts. Similarly the painter will show you how the gold paper is made thin, pasted and how they create this tiny bulge in the painting which is typical of the Tanjore painting.

The Tanjore painting is done by another artist who has also been doing this for generations. He will show you how the gold paper is made thin, pasted and how they create this tiny bulge in the painting which is typical of the Tanjore painting.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities : Brihadeeshwara Temple / Tanjore Sightseeing

Brihadeeshwara Temple : Located in Karnataka, India, Brihadishvara Temple, alternatively known as Rajesvara Peruvudaiyar is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. This significant piece of Tamil architecture is one of the biggest in the country and was constructed by Raja Raja Chola around 1010 AD.

Tanjore Sightseeing : Visit the most spectacular of Tanjore temples, the Brihadishwara capped by a monolithic cupola made of a single granite rock weighing 80 tons. The temple itself is decorated with carved panels depicting mythological events. An immense Nandi 6 meter long carved out of a single piece of granite stands in front of the shrine. Also visit Saraswati Mahal Library and Art Gallery with a large collection of Chola bronzes- a unique example of Hindu architecture. Also you can visit bronze ateliers to watch the Bronze Casting as per your interest and time.

Madurai : Located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Madurai is the oldest existing city on the Indian peninsula, and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a recorded history spanning more than 2500 years. It is known as ‘the city of temples' due to its countless ancient Hindu shrines, including the great Meenakshi - Sundareswar Temple, spread over 6 hectares and featuring a series of 50-meter-high gateway towers that can be seen from afar.

Post breakfast, check-out of the hotel and you will be transferred in your private car to Madurai (approx 04 Hrs).

On arrival, check-in at the hotel and relax.

The ancient city of Madurai is one of southern India's oldest with a recorded history going back to the 6th century B.C., has been a seat of learning from time immemorial and the center from which the Tamil language developed and flourished. It was well known to the Greeks and Romans with whom the city carried on active trade. The town has been patterned on the lotus flower with the temple of Goddess Meenakshi at the center.

Later in the afternoon you will be joined by your private guide for a visit to Sri Meenakshi temple to witness the night ceremony.

As the evening draws in experience the extraordinary ‘Going to Bed Ceremony’ at Sri Meenakshi Temple. Each night the image of Shiva (in the form of Sundareswarar) is carried from his shrine to join his consort Parvati (in the form of Meenakshi) at hers, in another part of the temple.

Each morning, he is returned to his own place of rest.

Overnight is at the hotel.

The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai Madurai : Chennai may be the capital of Tamil Nadu but Madurai claims its soul. And The Gateway Hotel, Madurai is located right at the heart of it. A short distance from Madurai's IT corridor, The Gateway Hotel sits at the top of the Pasumalai hill, surrounded by 62 acres of scenic gardens. Serving as a perfect vantage point to take in the picturesque views of the temple town and the Kodai hills. Whether you want to try local delicacies or healthy super-foods or indulge in some international cuisines, The Gateway Hotel Madurai has it all.

Activities : Meenakshi Temple Night Ceremony, Madurai

Meenakshi Temple Night Ceremony, Madurai : In the famous Sri Meenakshi Temple of Madurai, a going to bed ceremony is played out amongst a frenzied crowd.

From a gallery outside the main temple, you can witness this ceremony taking place from afar, as you soak in all that is happening around you. The image of Shiva is carried each night in an elaborate chariot, from his shrine to his wife Parvati’s resting place in a different part of the temple. It’s an eye-opening experience into India’s often intense spirituality.

Start a little early today to visit the famous wholesale flower market in the city. Just north of the Sri Meenakshi Temple, the daily flower and vegetable market is a labyrinth of bustling laneways strewn with aromatic herbs and vegetables. In the thick of it on the 1st floor of a nondescript cement building is the gorgeous flower market. Vendors dexterously heap mountains of marigolds and jasmine onto scales for the temple flower sellers here.

Next, visit the elegant Thirumalai Nayaka Palace which was built in 1636 in the Indo-Mughal style. Its 15 domes and arches are adorned with stuccowork. Its Celestial Pavilion, an arcaded octagonal structure, is curiously constructed in brick and mortar without supporting rafters. The original complex had an armory, a theater, royal quarters, and a shrine. Only a quarter remains since Thirumalai’s grandson removed sections to build another palace in Tiruchirapalli.

Late afternoon, enjoy a Cycle Rickshaw Ride in Madurai where you will cover the narrow streets and visit a variety of markets around the Meenakshi temple. A rickshaw ride is a great way to discover a different aspect of Madurai and experience the energy of the city.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities : Thirumalai Nayakar Palace

Thirumalai Nayakar Palace : What Madurai's Meenakshi Amman Temple is to Nayak religious architecture, Tirumalai Nayak's crumbling palace is to the secular. It’s said to be only a quarter of its original size, but its massive scale and hybrid Dravidian Islamic style still testify to the lofty aspirations of its creator. From the east-side entrance, a large courtyard surrounded by tall, thick columns topped with fancy stucco work leads to the grand throne chamber with its 25m-high dome; two stone-carved horses frame the steps up.

Munnar : Idyllically set at the confluence of three mountain streams, Munnar is a beautiful hill station in the Western Ghats mountain range in India’s Kerala state. The village once served as a popular vacation resort for the British Raj elite who flocked to here to enjoy the pleasant cool climate and the scenic natural surroundings characterized by rolling hills dotted with colonial bungalows, streams, waterfalls, and 19th-century tea plantations. The area's main attraction is the extraordinary Eravikulam National Park, which is famous for its diverse array of wildlife, including the endangered mountain goat known as Nilgiri Tahr. The park is also home to the exquisite Lakkam Waterfalls, some excellent hiking trails, and the impressive 2,695m-tall Anamudi Peak.

Morning after breakfast check out of the hotel and you will be transferred by road to Munnar in your private vehicle. (04 hrs. approx.)

On arrival, check in to your accommodation and relax.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Windermere Estate : The Windermere Estate is a plantation and retreat set on 55 acres of undulated slopes that consist of cultivated areas. The retreat sits on the slopes overlooking the Western Ghats.

Featured at the Windermere Estate is the View Point which is the highest point of the estate that sits on a rock in the center of the property. The View Point provides views of the valleys and hills and is ideal for bird watching. There’s also the Glen, a secluded section of the property surrounded by tall trees with a hammock in the center. This area encourages quiet and relaxation time and has the look of a little hideaway. The Boulder is an area on the property with tree stumps creating the atmosphere of an informal sitting area that is ideal for campfires.

After breakfast, visit Lockhart Tea Estate and Museum famous for its Orthodox Tea produced in the traditional way. The museum includes a living factory which was built in 1936 and a tea sales outlet and tea-tasting sections. You will be given a briefing about the origins of tea for consumption, its history and health benefits, and the traditional tea manufacturing process.

Follow the tea trail to the area where ladies will be picking tea leaves. Once in the area, you will join them in picking tea leaves and weighing the same, while interacting with the workers to understand their way of life.

Later proceed for Letchmi Hills Ridge Trek.

Walk through the tea plantations for about 30 to 40 minutes. On reaching the summit, the trek will continue for a couple of hours on the ridge through stunningly beautiful grasslands with rocky mountain slope on one side and the tea plantations on the other with interspersed patches of Shola forest. On a clear day, we can see Anaimudi “The highest peak in South India”

Overnight is at the hotel.

Expert Tips / Tea Museum is closed on Mondays.

Activities : Lockhart Tea Trail, Munnar, India / Letchmi Hills Ridge Trek, Munnar, India

Overview Lockhart Tea Trail, Munnar, India : This walk takes you into the very heart of Munnar’s tea industry and unravels many mysteries of tea production. You are introduced to the entire process of tea production… from the point where you see the young saplings set in the soil to the point when you enjoy a cup of fragrant tea. You will also learn much about the entire process that involves the production of tea from the factory to retail to exports. Lockhart tea estate where you will enjoy this experience is just 8 km away from Munnar; the Lockhart Gap offer splendiferous views of Bison Valley, so named after its population of Indian gaur, which is found plentifully here. Lockhart Gap is a popular picnic spot much loved for its views of the hills all the way up to Thekkady.

Why you will love it!

(a) Discovering the many charms of Munnar’s tea industry

(b) Visiting a tea factory and the plantation area to watch the tea plucking by the local women

(c) Seeing the beauty of Munnar from another perspective

Overview Letchmi Hills Ridge Trek, Munnar, India  : This 2-3 hour trek is one of the easiest in the Munnar hills. It offers wonderful opportunities to explore the varied terrains of these hills which include picturesque grasslands and rocky mountain slopes; the flip side views included swathes of tea and spice plantations and the unique shola forests prevalent in this region. The highpoint is literally the highest mountain Anaimudi (2,695 m), which dominates the skyline. This is also the highest peak in South India.

Why you will love it!

(a) A wonderful trekking experience through different terrains Unique birding opportunities

(b) Enjoying the natural beauty of the Southern Western Ghats

Thekkady : A tourist attraction in Kerala, Thekkady is a district located at the Periyar National Park. Thekkady comprises evergreen forests and savanna grasslands and is known for its natural spices such as black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove. Elephants, tigers, sambar, and many other species inhabit the park. Top attractions include the exquisite ancient Mangla Devi Temple, the aromatic Abraham’s spice garden, and the massive waterfall at the sleepy, picturesque village of Chellarkovil. Take in panoramic views of the extraordinary landscape from the Chellarkovil viewpoint, and picnic on the rolling, lush green lawns at Pandikuzhi. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, to see demonstrations of the best traditional martial arts. Thekaddy is also home to one of India’s famous tiger reserves and has a rich living tribal culture.

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to Thekkady (approx. 03 Hrs).

On arrival, check in at the hotel.

Afternoon enjoy a spice plantation. The plantation tour is an opportunity to meander through cardamom, pepper, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and many other varieties of spices and medicinal plants and gives you an insight into how these are grown, harvested and processed.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Spice Village : Spice Village. Thekkady gives you no inkling of its sprawling 14- acres that lie beyond the large reception area where guests are greeted by members of staff and given a quick rundown of what they could expect to do and see during their stay.

The roofs are thatched in the traditional way by the local Mannan tribe people and the walk through the rows of cabins is like touring an arboretum. The cabins are well-spaced and the flora and fauna between them are labelled so that you can get to know the indigenous species of Kerala.

The Ayurveda centre here offers a variety of treatments and is sure to ease aches and pains caused by city life.

Activities : Spice Plantation Visit at Thekkady

Spice Plantation Visit at Thekkady : The spice plantations in Thekkady have different spices that are cultivated in different sections of each plantation. Having generations of experience in spice farming, an experienced guide will explain the different spices like pepper, cardamom, cloves, turmeric, vanilla, all spice, cinnamon, and more.

Today with a packed breakfast enjoy a pleasant walk through the magic of the woods. The walk takes you through the diverse habitats of Thekkady, providing opportunities to spot different species of birds, identify wildlife that roam the jungles of Thekkady, and click great pictures of the opulent surroundings.

Later, enjoy boating along the scenic Periyar Lake and experience its vast calmness. The stark, skeletal remains of the trees that protrude from its waters give the area a primeval look. The mists that swirl ethereally over the water in the early morning heighten this impression. The scenic Periyar Lake in the middle of the sanctuary is a great place for boating and watching the elephant's frolic.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities : Common Boat ride at Periyar Lake

Common Boat ride at Periyar Lake : One of the best ways to explore the Periyar Tiger Reserve is by taking a boat ride through the Periyar Lake. It offers travelers the opportunity to view the natural beauty of the forest with its tall trees and resident wildlife. The duration of the boat ride is one and a half hours. The lake is surrounded with a thick dense tree line on either shore. These trees are home to some of the resident avian species that are unique to the Periyar Tiger Reserve. If one is fortunate one can catch glimpses of rare species of birds like the Malabar Grey Hornbill and the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon. Also one can hear the welcome of the lion tailed monkey as it announces your arrival from the tree tops. During the summer months of March to May, one can have a better chance of viewing the wildlife as the other water sources in the reserve dry up and the animals come to the lake for water. Common sights of a herd of elephants and deer are seen during this period.

Alappuzha : Located in the Indian state of Kerala, the bustling city of Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is set along the coast of the Laccadive Sea. Dubbed the ‘Venice of the East, it is renowned for its houseboat cruises that float along Kerala's tranquil backwater canals. It is said to be one of the most popular tourist centers in the state. While cruising the palm-shaded canals is the main attraction, visitors can also enjoy visiting Alappuzha’s beautiful beaches, exploring the little riverside villages dotting the lush countryside, and discovering an array of resplendent temples. Don’t miss the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race held at Punnamada Lake.

Today morning after breakfast check out of the hotel and you will be transferred in your private car to Alleppey boat jetty (approx. 04 Hrs)

On arrival at the jetty board your houseboat.

Explore the unique ecosystem of Kerala’s backwaters in a traditional Kettuvallam with an experienced crew, who double up as cooks and navigators. Enjoy authentic meals on board as you cruise across Vembanad Lake in an eco-friendly boat. Anchor to experience the local culture and disembark with unforgettable memories of Kerala. Lunch, dinner, and overnight on the houseboat.

Lakes & Lagoons : With a fleet of more than 21 luxury houseboats, Lakes & Lagoons offers backwater cruise journeys. Situated in Alleppey - a real natural treasure house, visually splendid with the blue of the lake and the green of the palms and vegetation, active with the aquatic life and local villages engaged in everyday errands.

Lakes & Lagoons has air-conditioned deluxe houseboats. The house boats have fully furnished 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms with a sundeck, private balcony with comfortable chairs, kitchen and toilet with WC. In addition, there is also a separate rest room for the crew. Traditional lanterns are used as lights.

Each houseboat has a three member crew - a chef, driver and cabin assistant. The cuisine is traditional Kerala flavor with the local specialties; delicious local fish (Pearlspot - Karimeen) and prawns. There are single bedroom houseboats for two people and two bedroom houseboats for four people.

Lakes & Lagoons is proud to present Premium range of Lake Royale Houseboats, Honeymoon Suite, Devas Indulge to the discerning guests. The features include round the clock A/C, luxurious interiors, all modern amenities and special menu.

Furthermore, Lakes & Lagoons has pioneered the innovative concept of hosting a range of events at the houseboats including weddings, meetings, cultural shows etc.

Kochi : Also known as Cochin, Kochi is a city in southwest India's coastal Kerala state. This attractive city has served as a popular port for over 600 years and is known for its eclectic architecture and its array of religious monuments, museums, galleries, cafes, and antique shops. The city stretches across several peninsulas and islands, which can be reached by a network of water taxis and bridges. The majority of Kochi’s visitor highlights can be found on Fort Kochi's peninsula. These highlights include the St Francis Church, the oldest European-built church in India; and Mattancherry Palace, which dates back to 1557 and contains some exceptional Kerala murals and temple art. Other must-see attractions include the Kerala Folklore Museum, displaying more than 4,000 cultural and ethnic artifacts; the 16th-century Jewish Synagogue; and the local market, where the air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices.

Morning post breakfast, check out of the houseboat and drive to Kochi (approx. 02 Hrs).

On arrival, procced to visit the Fort Kochi Area.

Fort Kochi being the natural gateway to the Kochi harbor grew in importance as travelers from far and wide came to Kochi: the Arabs, the Chinese and the Portuguese.

The large rain trees, beautiful colonial buildings, streets lined with many shops, dining options, the Chinese fishing nets, the Parade Ground, the Jain temple, the beach area, St. Francis Church, the Vasco house, the narrow lanes of Mattanchery and the fruit and vegetable markets all make this an interesting area.

Check-in at the hotel and relax.

Evening enjoy a Kathakali performance later in the evening. This Keralan traditional dance style requires extensive training over many years. Kathakali characters do not speak; instead, music playing in the background tell the plot. As a result, Kathakali music is a crucial part of this art form.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Expert Tips / Mattancherry Palace/ Dutch Palace remain closed on Fridays. Paradesi Synagogue remain closed on Friday afternoon & Saturday. St Francis’s Church remain closed on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning.

The Brunton Boatyard : Kerala boutique hotel Brunton Boatyard stands proud in historical Fort Cochin as an elegant colonial-style hotel suited to the sophisticated modern traveller. Distinguished decor, fantastic outdoor pool, excellent eateries – what's not to love?

Activities : Kathakali Dance Show

Kathakali Dance Show : In the late afternoon, enjoy a performance of Kathakali, the pantomimic dance-drama. It is a combination of facial expressions and body movements, which brings out the thought and emotion of the character. Kathakali is performed by men.

Today, experience a reflective journey and an enticing interaction with a traditional Kerala village are the keys to this interesting tour. What's even more interesting is you're expedition into the hinterlands of Kerala is going to be by tuk-tuk. The essence of the program is to understand how a typical Keralan village is structured.

Clients may want to spend more time while on our tours, which we would appreciate, but please do anticipate the same and make sure you leave enough time for that and clients do not have to rush back to join some other program scheduled by you.

Since the program reflects life as it is in a village, the expedition manager may modify the program on certain days, keeping the best interest of the guests and the sentiments of the locals in mind.

Why you will love it!!

(a) Visiting a fishing village

(b) Breakfast with a local family

(c) Expedition into the hinterland by tuk-tuk

(d) Fishing by the backwaters

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities : Village Rubble by Tuk-Tuk

Village Rubble by Tuk-Tuk : An expedition into the hinterlands of Kerala. The essence of the program is to understand how a typical Keralan Village is structured. We will take you to the local fishing harbor where the expedition manager will introduce you to the nitty-gritty of the fishing economy and insight into the life and livelihood of the local fishermen.

In time check-out of the hotel and you will be transferred to the Kochi airport for your flight back home.

Bon Voyage!

Expert Tips / Standard check-out is at 1200 Hours.