Spicelands & Elephants
The southern state of Kerala consists of a range of jungle-covered hills which undulate gently towards the Indian Ocean - a perfect tropical getaway! Your adventure starts in the colourful 'spice town' of Cochin, where you get a glimpse into the region’s rich and multi-cultural history. You'll also visit an elephant training camp and eco-farm to walk amongst fields of spices. Next you travel via the beautiful ‘hill station’ of Munnar, to the one of India’s oldest cities, Madurai – a centuries old centre of learning and pilgrimage. Periyar National Park offers a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life, with over 300 square miles of lush tropical forests. It’s the perfect place for getting up close and personal with animals such as wild elephant and otters. You'll continue to the beautiful Kerala backwaters, exploring the area’s villages on an overnight cruise on a comfortable houseboat. With beautiful unspoilt beaches to finish, this trip provides a great insight into the delights of southern India and this wonderfully friendly and easy-going area.
Transport - Charter vehicle, houseboat, on foot, train.
Accommodation - Hotels (12nts), houseboat (1nt).
Meals - 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 2 dinners.
Malabar Backwaters & Tropical beaches
You'll travel west to the watery wonderland of canals, lagoons and lakes that make up the Malabar Backwaters. Explore this amazing environment from the relaxed comfort of a houseboat. Wind down as you complete your journey on one of Kerala's fabulous beaches.
National Parks
Periyar National Park, in the cool of the Cardamom Hills, is home to the best of southern India's Wildlife. There's plenty to see including wild elephants and possibly tigers or leopards.
Elephant Camp
Over forty elephants are groomed at Punnathur Kotta, the ancient palace of the Punnathur Rajas. You can spend time watching the baby elephants' playful antics, seeing how sick elephants are medically treated in the traditional manner or witnessing their training.
Cochin
The adventure starts in the narrow streets of historic Cochin, where laden boats still set out past cantilevered Chinese fishing nets.
Our Spicelands and Elephants trip is just one of our many Asia Family tours. To find out more visit our Asia holidays page.
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Responsible Travel
Among many other things, we offset the carbon emissions associated with in-country travel on all of our trips, supporting a solar stove and clean energy project in Madagascar.
