Keralan Spice Trails
16 days Guided Groups, Fixed Departures
Kerala is known as God's own country and the green gateway of India. Explore the lush forests and peaceful plantation trails of the Western Ghats where the cool mountain air is heavily spiced with the sweet scent of tea and the pace of life far removed from the usual bustle of the cities. Ascend Meesapulimala peak, the highest in the area before dropping down through the magnificent rhododendron bushes and friendly villages of Tamil Nadu. Visit Madurai, one of the oldest and most fascinating cities in India and then embark on a jungle safari beneath the exotic canopies of Periyar National Park, abounding with tropical flora and fauna including elephants, buffalo and an abundance of birdlife. Complete your southern Indian journey in the traditional way, cruising along the waterways of Allepey on an enchanting houseboat. This is the ideal way to absorb the culture and working lives of the locals by meandering through the lagoons and canals, indulging in some mouth-watering regional specialities. Finish at the coast and the historic city of Kochi 'the Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Truly an exotic feast for the senses!- Days 1 to 4. Outbound to Kochi
- Fly overnight to Kochi, the oldest European settlement in India and a curious pot-pourri of Jewish synagogues, Chinese fishing-nets, Portuguese churches, Dutch palaces and British cricket greens! Head into the tranquil Cardamom Hills and Munnar, Kerala's 19th century hill station. It is an idyllic haven set amongst crystal clear lakes, waterfalls and forests where the world's highest tea plantations spread before you like a green carpet. Walk through the Maparrain hills where quiet trails and crisp mountain air create a wonderfully peaceful ambience.
- Days 5 to 8. Hill Station Trekking
- Explore the pristine Shola-grassland ecosystem of the Silent Valley plateau. Gradually climb Meesapulimala peak on the border of Tamil Nadu with sweeping views of the Western Ghats. Descend through valleys of cardamom, mango, coffee and cotton plantations to a beautiful campsite at Mundan.
- Day 9. Madurai
- Drive to the thriving cultural centre of Madurai, a city full of rich heritage and history. Visit the Alagar Hills and the incredibly intricate Kudran Rock Temple; the perfect place to experience Hindu culture.
- Days 10 and 11. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Move onto the grasslands and tropical forests of Periyar National Park, one of the largest in India and a supremely rich habitat for large mammals. Closed canopies provide excellent cover for an exuberant and colourful birdlife. A boat ride brings you close to the elephant herds so you can experience this inspirational environment firsthand.
- Days 12 and 13. Keralan Backwaters
- Criss-crossed by meandering rivers and lakes, this region provides a wealth of tropical flora. Embark on a houseboat for a leisurely trip through the inland backwaters of Allepey. You will pass villages, rice paddies, rubber plantations and lush vegetation whilst sipping coconut water and watching the local fishermen catch your supper. Relax at a coir village and dine on exquisite Keralan fare.
- Days 14 to 16. Kochi and Homeward
- Depart for Kochi for some last minute bargaining in the markets before flying back to the UK.
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- Tour grade: B
- Cost per person: £1,550.
- Single supplement: £375.
- CO2 Offset cost: £15.22
- What is included: Flights, accommodation, transfers,all camping equipment, porterage of luggage, entrance fees.
- Accommodation: Hotels, camping, houseboat.
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Departure dates:
Saturday, 16 February 2008.
Saturday, 15 November 2008.
Saturday, 14 February 2009.