From the iconic Chinese Nets in the harbour, which are a reminder of the port town's long time maritime relations with the Far East to the famous Pepper Exchange, whose 'black gold' had all of ancient Rome hungry for more of this exotic spice. Pop along to the graceful Dutch Palace, and marvel at the fusion of Dutch, Portuguese and English influences that sharply define this popular tourist attraction.
Munnar rises as three mountain streams merge - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picturesque towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town.
Kumarakom slumbers on the banks of the famous Vembanad Lake with its numerous canals, streams and distributaries that weave an intricate and enchantingly beautiful web. Its undisturbed tranquillity makes it a favourite with a vast number of migratory birds. Vantage points all along the shore provide excellent bird-watching opportunities which makes Kumarakom a popular destination for enthusiasts.
Referred to as the Venice of the East, Alleppey has always enjoyed an important place. Today, it is famous for its boat races, backwater holidays, beaches and marine products. Not to be missed a delightful experience while in Alleppey is the houseboat cruise. These houseboats come equipped with all the comforts of a good hotel room including furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, a kitchen and even a balcony for angling.
Mararikulam, a beach village in the district of Alappuzha. The name comes from Marari (Lord Siva) who is the main deity of the place. It has the famous temple Mararikulam Mahadevar temple dedicated to Lord Siva (also called Marari by the locals). It is the fertile land of communism and it has a very beautiful beach which is known by the name Marari Beach or Mararikulam beach.
Namaste and welcome to India. Arrive at Kochi International airport. You will be met by "SenKay Travel With Difference" representative at the arrival lounge and then transfer to the hotel. On arrival check in at hotel (Where rooms booked from 1400 hrs). Kochi (also known as Cochin) is a city in southwest India's coastal Kerala state. It has been a port since 1341, when a flood carved out its harbour and opened it to Arab, Chinese and European merchants. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast proceed for a day city tour and visit the Dutch Palace (Closed on Fridays), Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Fridays & Saturdays), Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church. Evening witness Kathakali dance show at Cochin. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast drive to Munnar (approx. 130kms/04 hrs) – a town in the Western Ghats mountains and a hill station and former resort for the British Raj elite, is set within rolling hills dotted with tea plantations established in the 19th century. Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered mountain goat Nilgiri tahr, is a seasonal trekking destination encompassing the Lakkam Waterfalls and 2,695m-tall Anamudi Peak. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast proceed sightseeing in Munnar and visit Photo Point, Elephant Arrival Spot, Echo Point, the Tea Factory & Museum (Closed on Monday). Overnight stay at hotel.
After early breakfast drive to Thekkady (95kms/03 ½ hrs) – The location of the Periyar National Park, which is an important tourist attraction in the Kerala. The sanctuary is famous for its dense evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests and savanna grass lands. It is home to herds of elephants, sambar, tigers, gaur, lion-tailed macaques and Nilgiri langurs. On arrival check in at hotel. Rest of the day free for your own activities. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast proceed for sightseeing in Periyar Wildlife sanctuary has a sizeable population of wild boars, sambars, wild dogs, monkeys and wild elephants and enjoy Boating in Periyar Lake experience the mind blowing view of calm crystal clear Periyar Lake and Sanctuary. You may get a chance to see different type wild animals while boating. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive to Kumarakom (133kms/04 hrs); a village on Vembanad Lake in the backwaters of Kerala. It’s laced with canals, where houseboats ply the waters. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is home to many species including cuckoos and Siberian storks. Nearby, the Bay Island Driftwood Museum displays wooden sculptures. In the lake, Pathiramanal Island is a haven for rare migratory birds. Ancient Thazhathangady Mosque is east of Kumarakom. On arrival check in at hotel. Later day free for leisure or Ayurvedic Body massage on (direct payment basis). Overnight stay at hotel.
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to the house boat for Lunch, It's best known for houseboat cruises along the rustic Kerala backwaters, a network of tranquil canals and lagoons. Alappuzha Beach is the site of the 19th-century Alappuzha Lighthouse. Overnight stay at House boat with Dinner.
After breakfast drive to Mararikulam (28kms/01 ½ hrs); a beach village in the district of Alappuzha. The name comes from Marari (Lord Siva) who is the main deity of the place. It has the famous temple Mararikulam Mahadevar temple dedicated to Lord Siva (also called Marari by the locals). It is the fertile land of communism and it has a very beautiful beach which is known by the name Marari Beach or Mararikulam beach. On arrival check in, lunch at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Breakfast served at hotel. Rest of the day free for relax or your own activities (on direct payment basis). Overnight stay at hotel.
Breakfast served at hotel. Rest of the day free for relax or your own activities (on direct payment basis). Overnight stay at hotel.
Breakfast served at hotel. Rest of the day free for relax or your own activities (on direct payment basis). Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive to Kochi, free time for shopping. Overnight stay at hotel.
Breakfast at hotel (Room booked till 1200 hrs). In time transfer to Kochi international airport board your onward flight back to hometown.
An amalgamation of the architectural splendour of Fort Kochi's colonial past. Brunton boatyard in Fort Kochi is inspired from its colonial history. A former shipyard in British times, it has been converted by us to faithfully reflect the symbols and signs of a historical period known for its stately grandeur and good taste as expressed through its ambiance, amenities, service and food.
Fragrant Nature—a luxury 5 star hotel with the finest vantage views of the verdant mountains—is situated in a choice location of Munnar. Lose yourself to the postcard scenery, underlined by a world-class hospitality and service. Fragrant Nature Munnar is styled similar to the design of local planter bungalows with cozy fireplaces in every room. Our All-day dining restaurant showcases the best of North/South Indian & Arab delicacies with choicest ingredients and exotic pairing. Watch your stress and little worries seep away with the luxuriant Ayurvedic spa massages at the state-of-the-art Spa—it's leading highlight.
Spice village for us is a work of nature as much as it is a lofty expression of the imagination. We conceived the resort as a village and approached its building the way you would a village - with local materials, native artisans, mountain spirit and traditional wisdom in its creation. Though traditional in its conception, this is a ‘village’ that offers you all the comforts of a city minus the noise, pollution and other urban ills that you can do without. Our interaction with the ecology of these hills is symbiotic, influenced by the native people of these parts who have lived in harmony with their surroundings for generations. They taught us about self-sustaining systems and also steward our organic gardens that put fresh vegetables, fruits and spices on your tables every day.
See HotelTaj Kumarakom Resort & Spa is a slice of history, a part of nature and a family estate converted into a 5 star resort in Kumarakom where staying in one of only 28 exclusive villas or cottages amidst almost 15 acres of natural green cover is quite a unique experience in itself. The resort takes you back to 1881 when the Baker’s family who are considered the founders of modern Kumarakom set up their residence here. The original bungalow still stands gracefully on the shore of a beautiful lagoon welcoming guests on its historical corridors while the rest of the facilities are distributed across the sprawling grounds most of which are interspersed with century old trees, water bodies and home to many rare species of animals with the Kumarakom bird sanctuary being only next door.
A real haven of lakeside experience, The Lake Palace Resort is erected on the auspicious banks of Vembanad Lake. Sprawling across the great 14 acres, Lake Palace overlooks the verdant landscapes of Alleppey on one side and the breathtaking views of the lake on the other side. An ultimate destination which captures the true vibe of Venice of the East for making your getaway complete with enduring memories.
The sea-side village experience set on 30 acres with coconut groves, lily ponds, fruit trees and a large organic farm. Our seaside resort, Marari beach in Mararikulam, is a tribute to the fisherfolk of this region who populate its spirit in obvious and subtle ways. Our guest cottages echo their dwellings in style and character while our cuisine reflects the culinary subtleties of these people whose sensibilities and culture have been influenced by the charms and challenges of the oceans.
Journey to India.......once is not enough!!!!
BANKING AND CURRENCY
Currency
The Indian Rupee is the official currency of the Republic of India. The modern Indian Rupee is subdivided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Banknotes in circulation come in denominations of INR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 2000. Please note that as of November 2016, the older 500 and 1000 INR note are no longer valid legal tender and only new ₹500 notes will be accepted.
The latest Indian Rupee coins are available in denominations of INR 1, 2, 5, 10.
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited. However, amounts exceeding US$5,000 or equivalent in cash, or US$10,000 or equivalent in all forms of currency must be declared. The export of foreign currency is allowed up to the amount imported and declared.
Currency can be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. Many hotels also have facilities to change money but this is a more expensive option. It is illegal to exchange money through unauthorised money changers. US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange.
Banking
Banking hours: Monday-Saturday 10h00-03h30 (Bank will be closed on second and forth Saturday).
Strictly speaking, you can neither import nor export Indian currency, but you can get some at the airport straight away to at least get you transport to your accommodation. There are Authorized Foreign Exchange dealers in most big cities, and banks will also change your currency at a fair rate if you have time for the paperwork.
A good way of getting your travellers currency is via an ATM but beware of hidden bank charges, both from the bank providing the ATM and the card-issuing bank - you also do not know what exchange rate you are getting.ATMs are found in most towns and are recommended for cash withdrawals.
Visa, MasterCard and American Express are usually accepted in tourist hotels and many other shops. Debit cards are also widely accepted.
Travellers cheques are widely accepted and may be changed at banks and larger hotels. The most widely accepted currencies include US Dollars and Pounds Sterling. Some banks may refuse to change certain brands of traveller's cheques whilst others may exchange quite happily.
TRAVEL, TRANSPORT AND GETTING AROUND
India is big and there are lots of interesting ways to travel around it, most of which could not very well be described as efficient or punctual. Allow considerable buffer time for any journey with a fixed deadline (eg. your flight back), and try to remember that getting there should be half the fun.
India's large size and uncertain roads make flying a viable option, especially as prices have tumbled in the last few years. Even India's offshore islands and remote mountain states are served by flights, the main exceptions being Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh (although crossing over from neighbouring states is fairly easy). Due to the aviation boom over the last few years, airports have not been able to keep up with the air traffic. Most Indian airports continue to function with one runway and a handful of boarding gates. Check in and security queues can be terribly long, especially in Delhi and Mumbai.
Railways were introduced in India in 1853, more than one and half a centuries ago, by the British, and today India boasts of the biggest network of railway lines in the world, and the rail system is very efficient, if not always on schedule. Travelling on Indian Railways gives you the opportunity to discover the Indian landscape and scenic beauty first hand and is generally more economical than flying domestic. It is one of the safest ways of travel in India. With classes ranging from luxurious to regular, it's the best way to get to know the country and its people. Most train passengers will be curious about you and happy to pass the time with a chat.
In central locations of big cities like airports or stations reliable pre-paid taxis are available and will save you money as well as the bargaining hassle. However beware of touts who would claim themselves to be running pre-paid taxis. Always collect the receipt from the counter first. The receipt has two parts - one part is for your reference and the other part you will need to handover to the taxi driver only after you reach your desired destination. The taxi driver will get his payment by submitting or producing this other part to the pre-paid taxi counter. Normal taxis running by meter are usually more common. In many non Metro Cities (or even in Metros depending on time) taxies or autos may ply without the usual meter.
While you can't take a cross-country bus-ride across India, buses are the second most popular way of travelling across states and the only cheap way of reaching many places not on the rail network (eg. Dharamsala).
FOOD, DRINK AND CUISINE ADVICE
Water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should first be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is often unpasteurised and should be boiled. Avoid dairy products likely to have been made from non-boiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Do not eat salads, vegetables should be cooked and peel your own fruit. Don’t eat street vendor food unless it is piping hot. Tap water is not safe to drink, rely on bottled water which is widely available. However, do check the seal on bottled water.
Indian food is world-renowned for its tantalising flavours, spiciness and enormous variety. Curries are created from the subtle and delicate blending of spices such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, coriander, nutmeg and poppy seed although these vary from region to region and every spice has medicinal properties and use.
Vegetable dishes are more common than in Europe, particularly in the fruity, coconutty dishes of southern India, while northern India has an entirely different but equally satisfying cuisine to sample. Breads like paranthas, chapatis, naans and rotis are also part of the main diet in several states like Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Achars (pickles), relishes and chutneys again vary by region and add more resonance to amazing meals.
Sweets or mithai too have regional specialities. They tend to be milk based and some are syrupy and fried. Well-known northern sweets are gulab jamun, jalebi (it’s worth watching how these syprup-based confections are made in the street), kulfi, kheer, halwa and laddu. From the east are rasgulla and rasmalai. The south has several burfi and halwa-type desserts like coconut burfi and badam halwa made from almonds.
While care should be taken in where one eats, exceptional food can be had in the most humble surroundings such as food at ashrams as can be found in 5-star restaurants. Non-vegetarians will find fabulously spiced mutton dishes according to regional specialities including fish dishes typical to coastal areas.
10 to 15% is usual in restaurants that impose no service fee; optional where service fee is added to bill.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
The weather is mainly hot most of the year with significant variations from region to region. The coolest weather lasts from around the end of November to the beginning of March, with fresh mornings and evenings, and mostly sunny days. The really hot weather, when it is dry, dusty and unpleasant, is between March and June. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer anywhere between June and early October.
CLOTHING AND DRESS RECOMMENDATIONS
Male or female, one rule covers all visitors to India: don't leave the house with your arms or legs bare. You'll naturally get attention as a foreigner, as full-on staring is common and accepted on Indian streets, but you'll suffer far less negative attention if you remain covered up. For most locations and seasons in India, thin, loose linen or cotton pants and button-down shirts will keep you comfortable in hot, humid weather and help you blend in. While you may see Indian young adults sporting tight jeans and fitted brand-name tops, you'd stand out significantly more in the same outfit. If you visit anywhere in northern India - not just the mountains, Delhi too - during the winter, prepare for seriously cold weather. Bring jeans and heavy shirts and pick up an Indian wool wrap.
What you can get away with at an Indian beach depends entirely on which beach you visit. In the state of Goa, a popular beach and club getaway destination, locals are accustomed to seeing tourists in bikinis on the beach and Indian men often sport Speedos. But skimpy clothes need to stay on the beach. Don't walk around town or your hotel in nothing but a bikini and sarong. In less Western-frequented beach destinations, such as the beaches around Bombay, Alibag and Chowpatty, or anywhere in the south, hit the beach in light pants and a tunic.
When visiting temples and other religious sites on your own or part of a tour, be on the lookout for signs advising visitors to dress in a specific way to enter the temple. The government of India advises that some religious institutions require visitors to cover their heads or remove their shoes, and covering your legs and arms in respect goes without saying. Certain sites may carry more specific requirements, such as donning a certain colored sash or sarong-like covering. Take your cue from other visitors exiting the site.
ELECTRICITY AND PLUG STANDARDS
For the most part, electrical sockets (outlets) in India are the "Type D" 5 amp BS-546 sockets. This is actually an old British standard. The "Type D" Indian plug and socket is not to be confused with the "Type M" South African plug and socket. In pictures, they look very similar, but the South African type is much larger than the Indian type, and they are physically incompatible. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in.
Electrical sockets (outlets) in India usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliances are not compatible with 220-240 volt electrical output, a voltage converter will be necessary.
