TREKKING HOLIDAYS KERALA
Destination
Kerala
Duration
11 Days
Fly in
Kochi, India
Fly Out
Kochi, India
Price
$2,100 per PAX
Overview
Itinerary
Accommodation
Route Map
Gallery
FAQ
Overview
About Tour
Western Ghats Trekking is a challenging trek through the highest trekking trail in South India. For centuries this area was known the world over as the Cardamom Hills, where the most sought after spices were dispatched to all corners of the world. Here is your chance to walk the trail through the wilderness, with every chance of sighting wildlife and meeting up with the indigenous people who live in these parts.
Day | Location | Property | Meal Plan |
Day 1 | Fort Cochin | Fort House | -/-/- |
Day 2 | Munnar | Tea County Resort | B/L/D |
Day 3 | Rhodo Valley | Rodo Mansion Forest Bungalow or Camping | B/L/D |
Day 4 | Munnar | Tea County Resort | B/L/D |
Day 5 | Suryanelly | Anaerangal Cottage or Camping | B/L/D |
Day 6 | Santhanpara | Shola Crown Resort or Camping | B/L/D |
Day 7 | Periyar | Abad Green Forest | B/L/D |
Day 8 | Alleppey | Houseboat | B/L/D |
Day 9,10 | Marari Beach | Turtle Beach Resort | B/-/- |
Day 11 | Depart | B/-/- |
Highlights
- India Trek through spice plantations & high altitude forests
- Walking through the famous Mathikettan Shola N.P
- Visit to Worlds Highest Tea Plantation
- Camping in South India’s highest campsites
- Visit the famous Periyar Tiger Sanctuary
- Houseboat cruise at Alleppey backwaters
- Stay at the world’s top five Hammock Beaches by National Geography.
- Exquisite healthy and local Kerala food all along.
- Hike to Meeshapulimala– 2640 m The second highest peak in South
Inclusions
Accommodation on twin
Treks as shown in the itinerary
Entry into the sanctuaries & National Parks
Meals as indicated (ethnic food)
Hot breakfast & dinners during trekking
Refreshments & bottled water as required while trekking
Packed lunch while trekking
English speaking guide & support staff including helpers
Luggage transfers at all places
All transfers in mini buses
First aid & Stand by jeep for emergency CASEVAC
Exclusions
Flights
Travel Insurance
Tips
Laundry
Beverages
Personal Shopping
Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Fort Cochin
You will be welcomed through our tour leader at the Airport and you’ll be transferred to fortress Cochin. Cochin is the cosmopolitan center of Kerala. Your inn is of the boutique kind and one many of the very few in the colonial and heritage city of citadel Kochi. Some of the satisfactory spots in fortress Kochi and Mattancherry (the extra ancient hub) encompass the Dutch palace, the Jew Synagogue, St Francis’ Church, Dutch Cemetery, Chinese language Fishing nets, Santa Cruz Cathedral and so forth. The old global appeal infused with the severe spice markets, vintage stores and art galleries will amaze you.When we attain we will take you for sightseeing at fort Cochin. Night we can take you to expose our conventional cultural overall performance call Kathakali. Later we will have briefing followed by way of dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Fort House
Activity Distance: Transfer 45KMs
Day 2: Munnar
After the breakfast you’ll be shifting to the maximum lovely hill station in Kerala Munnar. Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala, is perched about 1600 m above sea degree and used to be the summer time resort of the erstwhile British management in South India.
The drive is set four – five hours and relaxation of the day you can relax on the motel to conquer the jet lag and tiredness of the journey, After night a small stroll to the market.
Accommodation: Tea County Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Transfer 140KMs
Day 3: Rhodo Valley
Early start as we head along paths over the undulating mountain grasslands and ascend Meesapulimala, 2680m – the second maximum peak in the Western Ghats. The trek passes through sholas (excessive altitude rain forests or cloud forests) and mountain streams which crisscross the location. The place also has wildlife – drastically elephants, sambar, sloth bear and the Nilgiri tahr. When we attain the pinnacle, we prevent for a relaxation and revel in the panoramic perspectives. After a short prevent to banquet your eyes on the super view of forests and tea estates down within the valleys underneath, you’ll start your descent to the Rhodo Valley where you will live for the night.
Accommodation: Rhodo Mansion
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Trekking 10KMs
Day 4: Yellapatty Munnar
Witness the spectacular sunrise from the Rhodo valley with the cool mountain breeze. The Valley of Rhododendrons in between the Shola forest will give you a heavenly experience of stay many astonishing view of the Western Ghats. After the trek we will be transferring back to Munnar.. After the breakfast we will start the trek from the mansion and we will head further into the woods to Yellapatti. Walking through the Shola Forest and Grasslands you can get
Accommodation: Tea County Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Trekking 14KMs
Day 5: Suryanelli
In the morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Suryanelli, a rural town located 30Km from Munnar. Once you drop your belongings at the Hotel which about 5500ft above sea level we will climb to Phantom’s Head just to see how the hills come alive in the morning with the song strains of the Malabar Whistling Thrush and one can watch the awesome sunrise over the Butterfly Forest which is famous for the mass migration of butterflies in October and November. You can also visit the tribal village of the Muduvans (the back people) who have been living in the upper reaches of the Western Ghats for centuries. They are named so because of their habit of carrying their children on their backs.
In the evening after the trek you can relax at the high altitude camp hotel as the sun fades away from the sky leaving the Lush green forest into the darkness of the night.
Accommodation: Anaerangal Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Trekking 12KMs
Day 6: Shanthanpara
Today you will be so refreshed to start the day with a hot cup of tea in the cool winter morning at Surynelli. After breakfast we will head to the Mathikettan Shola National Park for the trek of the day. This National Park is home to the Asian Elephants and Nilgiri Langurs and also to a lot of endemic fauna and flora. Set amidst cardamom spice plantations, Santhanpara has earned the name of being the capital of Spice cultivation that has made Kerala famous and lured traders from all over the world.
Accommodation: Shola Crown
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Trekking 14KMs
Day 7: Periyar
After breakfast we can be moving to Periyar. Tropical rain forests nonetheless hold mysteries & many flora and fauna species which are specific. The rain forests at Periyar are a number of the densest in India. The nicely laid out trails inside it are precise and an exquisite manner to discover those marvels of nature. These dense forests & the open grasslands here are home to huge animal populations – the elephant, gaur, deer, Nilgiri langur, Bonnet macaque, leopards, Jungle cats, most significantly the tiger. Our journey takes us thru the private rain forests strolling inside the business enterprise of local trackers and guides. On arrival at Periyar, we will test into motel and inside the evening time move on a three-hour stroll into the rain forest.
Accommodation: Abad Green Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Trekking 6KMs
Day 8: Alleppey
We will switch to Alleppey wherein we can be met by means of the houseboat. Houseboats are a remodeled model of Kettuvallams (in the Malayalam language, Kettu approach “tied with ropes”, and vallam manner “boat”), which, in earlier times, had been used to hold rice and spices from Kuttanad to the Kochi port. Such a houseboat is set 60 to 70 ft (about 18 to 21 meters) long and about 15 toes (approximately five meters) huge on the middle. The hull is product of wooden planks, typically Jackfruit, which are held together by means of ropes of coconut fiber. The roof is made from bamboo poles and palm leaves. The exterior of the boat is painted with protective coats of a black resin made from boiled cashew nut shells.The houseboats are luxuriously furnished and encompass a thatched protected living room and dining area, and relying on the dimensions some of bedrooms that usually encompass a twin or double beds (with mosquito nets) and a rest room with lavatory and washbasin. As you embark the boat at noon, you may be received within the conventional backwater fashion with garlands and a clean drink of coconut water instantly up from the coconut itself – a simply fresh begin to a remarkable cruise. The group of the boat is from the local people. They may no longer understand your language but their hospitality is wonderful & their culinary skills mythical. Calm down for a few first-rate sea food cooked within the fragrant flavors of Keralan spices (now not too warm of course). The cruise takes you through narrow canals wherein you may watch lifestyles of the backwater humans cross via women pound their washing, families paintings inside the fields, ducks being reared, men amassing shells for making nearby ‘cement’ or linger on the nearby ‘chai’ shop, and canoes and ferry boats. That is a spotlight – relaxing, romantic, and a threat to get to recognize each other better.
Accommodation: House Boat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Transfer 100KMs
Day 9 & 10 Marari Beach
Morning at 9am after breakfast you’re out onto stunning stretches of acreage. Goodbyes to your captain and group, you’re set to analyze a few Coir (coconut fiber) making from a local outfit, the traditional manner! Transfer via the villages and temples we head to Mararikulam, a fishing village by using the seashore. In reality it is rated as one of the global’s pinnacle five Hammock beaches by means of national Geography. Time for relax and Ayurvedic massages and lighten up on the beach.
Accommodation: Turtle Beach Resort
Meals: Breakfast
Activity Distance: Transfer 20KMs
Day 11: Depart
After the delicious breakfast from the Hotel you will be transferred to the airport at Cochin to bid adieu to God’s Own Country.
Accommodation: Nil
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activity Distance: Transfer 80KMs
Accommodation
List of accomodations
Fort House
Hotel Fort House is a charming medium-priced, family-run hotel. It is located by the waterfront in Fort Cochin, a town of cultural and historical importance, about 20 kilometers from the city of Ernakulam in Kerala. Well-situated within walking distance from heritage monuments such as the Old Synagogue, the Dutch Palace, and the popular antique market of Mattancherry, Hotel Fort House is an attractive destination for travellers looking for a comfortable and refreshing time away from the bustle of city life.
Anaerangal Lake
The Anaerangal Camp – a cottage-tented camp overlooking the spectacular Anaerangal Lake – beckons those in search of a quiet retreat amongst the mountains.
Abad Green Forest
Abad Green Forest is an idyllic resort that borders the Periyar wildlife sanctuary and provides the perfect antidote to the busy lives of modern travellers. When you stay at our picturesque resort in Thekkady, take time to visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spice walk,boating and many other tourist destinations that are present in close proximity to our resort.
House boat
The houseboats are luxuriously furnished and encompass a thatched protected living room and dining area, and relying on the dimensions some of bedrooms that usually encompass a twin or double beds (with mosquito nets) and a rest room with lavatory and washbasin. As you embark the boat at noon, you may be received within the conventional backwater fashion with garlands and a clean drink of coconut water instantly up from the coconut itself – a simply fresh begin to a remarkable cruise.
Abad Turtle Beach
Route Map
Route Map
Gallery
FAQ
FAQ
Should I book my vacation in advance ?
It is advisable to book your tour as early as possible. During holiday periods from Oct-March hotels across South India remain full. Please contact us and we would be glad to help with dates and planning.
Do you offer Private Honeymoon Trips ?
Yes. An experience with us has all the ingredients for a perfect honeymoon. Custom made just for you and your dearest spouse. Romantic destinations like Munnar and Marari Beach offer exquisite lodgings and cuisine. And engaging activities—as much or as little, as easy or as challenging, as desired. It’s the ultimate wedding present. Just call us at + 91-9562442992 or email us at [email protected] Buzz us to customize your cycling holiday in India.
What about our main luggage?
We will take of your luggage & will reach you at your day’s camp. Carry only a day bag with your papers and valuables.
What about guides?
Qualified outdoor guides and trackers will accompany you on the trek.
Accommodation / Meals
The properties that we have suggested in the itinerary are standard and premium properties we use and include heritage hotels, Eco-lodges and Plantation Retreats. Indian food is mainly vegetarian and spicy but not hot curry. A typical meal consists of rice, Chappathy, fish, and vegetables. There is an abundance of fresh fruit and fish. Mineral water is widely available and carried on the support vehicle.
What about Wildlife encounters.
They are likely to be wild animal encounters but our guides and trackers are trained and experienced enough to keep you out of harm’s way.
Do you have a suggested kit list?
We do have a suggested kit list which we will send you when you have booked the trip. Suffice it to say that this is a highly mountainous area where nights are cold. Hence you will require woolens as well as good walking shoes.
Can you provide me with references from previous tours ?
Yes. Your Trip Consultant will be happy to give you contacts of people who have participated in the trip you’re considering.
Can I have my own room ?
Our prices are based on double occupancy (two people per room). We will endeavor to find a roommate for those guests who wish to share a room. Please write to us at [email protected] for single occupancy rates.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of joining our trips that you must be adequately insured. Polices should cover potential risks involved in a mountain cycling holiday. We ask for details of your policy to be provided prior to travel. We recommend that you arrange your travel insurance at the same time as booking your holiday so that you are covered in the event of cancellation.
Vaccinations
There are no compulsory vaccinations for foreign visitors but we strongly recommended that you should contact your doctor at least 3 months prior to travel to obtain these vaccinations and the latest advice to travelers. Expert advice on medication should be sought.
First Aid
Our guides carry a medical kit. We recommend that you bring your own first aid supplies including: a broad spectrum anti-biotic, antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, a cold medication, diarrhea treatment, pain killers, plasters, insect repellent and re-hydration salts.
Tips for Local Guides and Drivers
Tipping is an accepted part of everyday life, and although it is always at your discretion, you will be expected to tip to reward service. £25 for the guide and team at the end of the tour is recommended.
Personal Expenses
Spending money depends on your taste for souvenirs, drinks etc. We estimate that £200 will be more than enough to cover the 14-day tour.
Is India Bicycle Trips a registered firm ?
India Bicycle Trips is a part of a registered company called ” In Sight Bicycle Trips Pvt Limited ” head quartered in Cochin, Kerala. In-Sight Bicycle Trips Pvt Ltd is a company formed in 2010 and has been successful in offering tours both leisure and active holidays to its guests from all over the world. For any information, please feel free to write to us and we would be glad to clarify.