6 Days / 5 Nights

Day 1: Arrive Madurai
Arrive in Madurai this evening. Upon arrival you are met and transferred to your Hotel.

Day 2: Madurai / Thekkady
This morning embark on a sightseeing tour of Madura, which includes Meenakshi Temple, Tirumala Nayak Palace (a gracious building in the Indo Saracenic style), Alagar Hills and Tirupara Kundran Rock temple. Afternoon drive to Thekkady. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. (B)

Day 3: Periyar Game Viewing / Kumarakom
Enjoy early morning game viewing by boat on Periyar Lake. The motor launch drifts along the lake presenting close views of elephants, deer, bison and even leopards and tigers. Later in the morning drive to Kumarakom. Your afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps take advantage of the rich waters with a bit of fishing, or just relax and soak in the rich atmosphere of your surroundings. (B)

Day 4: Backwaters Cruise
In the morning set out to enjoy the Backwaters. Your boat cruises through the series of canals and lagoons snaking their way through several tiny villages and tropical vegetation. Not only do the backwaters of Kerala link the state together, they are an integral element in maintaining ecological balance and creating harmony with nature. Your afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 5: Kumarakom / Cochin
Take a cruise this morning on Vembanad Lake, site of a bird sanctuary. Waterfowl, cormorants, egrets and teals are seen in abundance. Later drive to Cochin, one of the most picturesque places in Kerala. Your tour this afternoon includes a visit to the Portuguese Church built by St. Francis in 1562, the Jewish Synagogue, the famed Mattancherry Palace, and the Chinese fishing nets-ingenious devices requiring little human attention. Tonight enjoy a presentation of the colorful costumed Kathakali dance drama. (B)

Day 6: Depart Cochin
You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)