Kerala and the Tamil Nadu Plains
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From the palm fringed beaches of Kerala with its extensive backwaters, through the mountains of the Western Ghats and on down to the Tamil Nadu plains, which the British described as the 'breadbasket of the Empire', this is a tour of stunning contrasts. Enjoy a week of travelling to experience the beaches and temples, wildlife and waterways; then settle in at Lakeside, relax and experience rural India in a way which is not possible on most tours.
Lakeside's English owners have made this the ideal base for holiday makers wishing to take some of their guided tours to experience the sights, sounds and aromas of rural India by day, returning to the peaceful serenity and comfort of Lakeside for the evening. Alternatively, why not spend the day taking one of the many local hill and lakeside walks or simply relaxing and enjoying the magnificent lake and mountain scenery. With its abundance of bird and wildlife, its secluded setting in 4.5 acres of landscaped gardens miles from the nearest village and its stunning views of Kamarajar lake and the foothills of the Western Ghats, Lakeside is a place of unique natural beauty.
Whatever you choose to do, your stay at Lakeside will be filled with memories.
The Itinerary
Tour C: Kerala and the Tamil Nadu plains
Duration: 13 nights
Arrive at Trivandrum airport. Our representative will meet you and take you to your hotel where you will receive a briefing on your planned tour. Overnight at Kanyakumari.
Relax and enjoy Kanyakumari beach , where three oceans meet; explore this historic town with the impressive statue of Thiruvalluvar, Vivekananda Memorial island, and the Gandhi Memorial or stroll amongst the fishermen mending their nets. Overnight Kanyakumari.
Drive to Suchindram temple to view its stunning architecture, visit the wooden palace at Padmanabhapuram Palace then continue your journey to Kovolam beach resort. Overnight at Kovolam.
Drive to Alleppey where you will board your rice boat. Enjoy the peace and serenity of a cruise the backwaters. Overnight on the rice boat.
Disembark from your boat and drive to Cochin Take a guided tour of the city, including the Fort, Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, St Francis Church and the Chinese fishing nets Overnight at Cochin.
Drive up to the wildlife reserve at Thekkady where you can see some of the wildlife of the Western Ghats. Overnight Periyar.
Take advantage of the cooler air in the mountains to explore Thekkady. Your guide will be on hand to help you to arrange your choice of activity* if you'd like to try an elephant ride, visit a spice garden or take a trek in the forest. As you wander about the streets, your guide will be pleased to show you the best value shops in which to purchase your souvenirs. As the day draws to a close why not enjoy an evening performance at the Kathakali Theatre*? Overnight Periyar.
In the morning drive down to Madurai on the Tamil Nadue plain. In the afternoon take some free time for shopping before enjoying an evening light show at Tirumalai Nayat Palace Overnight Madurai.
Enjoy a morning tour of the amazing Meenakshi temple before driving to Lakeside. Overnight at Lakeside.
Enjoy the tranquil setting and take the opportunity to relax. With a guesthouse fronting on to the Karamaraj Lake you can sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery and soothing walks along the shoreline. There is also an optional half day tour of local the village and crafts*. Overnight Lakeside.
Take another day to relax and recharge your batteries or take the optional day trip to Kodaikanal* where there is the option of a pleasant round of golf*. Overnight Lakeside.
Perhaps take the opportunity to Visit the typically Indian town of Dindigul where you will be able to view the temple and rock fort as well as indulge in a little shopping!* Overnight Lakeside
Make the most of your last day at Lakeside to relax and enjoy the lake and mountains. Take a swim or a walk; maybe take one of our cycles for a ride or go horse riding (subject to availability)* Overnight Lakeside
Fly home from either Madurai or Trichy airport. You can extend your stay with extra nights at Kanyakumari or Lakeside. Or have an extra night in Madurai or Trichy before your flight.
Included in this tour:
- Bed and breakfast in comfortable approved accomodation
- Experienced Guide, vehicle and courier
- Entrance fees for sites listed in the itinerary
We make every effort to give you the holiday of a lifetime at an affordable price. Unfortunately some optional activites will incur an extra cost, these are clearly marked with an *. If you need any claritfications please don't hesitate to ask.
Tariffs
£875
Single occupancy supplement applies. Please contact us for further details
We regret that our hotels have a surcharge during a three week Christmas/New Year period. Please contact us for details of how this will affect your holiday pricing. Nights at Lakeside do not incur any surcharges
Price includes: accommodation in 3* hotels; breakfast at all hotels; full board on your house boat; entrance charges to sites listed on your itinerary; airport transfers; all transports listed on your itinerary; driver/guide. Transport is in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, type dependent on size of party.