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Walking through the beautiful hills and tea plantations of South India
The group flight arrives in Cochin in the afternoon and we transfer to our hotel. Those clients not travelling on the group flight will make their own way to the hotel and will join us there. The evening is free for dinner and for you to relax after your journey. *Comfortable Hotel*
In the morning we drive away from the coastal plain to Munnar, set amongst Kerala's highest mountains, they form a jagged line due east of Cochin. The drive is approx. 160km and should take approximately 6 hours. Munnar is a beautiful hill station on the Western Ghats at about 1600m above sea level. It was once a summer resort of the British Government in south India due to the fresh mountain air. The town is situated at the confluence of the three mountain streams Mudrapauzha, Naliathanii and Kundala and is surrounded by lakes, reservoirs, forests and several tea estates. Anamudi (2695m), the highest peak in south India dominates the skyline and the many smaller peaks are a walker's paradise. *Standard Hotel*
After breakfast, we take a short drive through old Munnar and travel down to Nagarmudi (1500m), a tiny village, where we start our trek accompanied by a local guide. The walk begins with a gradual ascent through the tea plantations and then climbs into the Seven Malai Hills. Just before reaching the summit (1700m) we enjoy walking through cardamom and coffee plantations. Our hard work will be rewarded with spectacular views over Munnar and other local villages. We then descend back to our vehicle. There is an optional visit in the afternoon to the Tea Museum. *Standard Hotel*
Distance in Km: 6.5
Distance in Miles: 4
Activity Hours: 3-4
We have a beautiful 1 hour drive to the Silent Valley, passing through some tea estates and plantations in a valley surrounded by hills. Our trek will start with a gradual walk on the plains of the tea plantations at approx 1600m, followed by a gentle climb to the grasslands. There are beautiful views all around, mostly of the tea estates, which gives us a good feel for the area. After lunch, we continue with the second part of our trek, which becomes steeper as we leave the tea plantation behind and finally reach our camp (2000m), where we spend two nights. *Full-service Camping*
Distance in Km: 14
Distance in Miles: 8.7
Activity Hours: 4-5
Today we trek to Meesapulimala Peak (2630m), the second highest in south India (Anamudi is the highest but it is in a restricted area). From our camp, the trail ascends through the rough shola grassland until we reach open ridges, bringing us to Meesapulima Peak. From the top (which is also the border between Tamil Nadu and Kerala) there are breathtaking views all around. After a break at the top and our packed lunch, we will descend to our camp (2000m). *Full-service Camping*
Distance in Km: 15
Distance in Miles: 9
Activity Hours: 7-8
In the morning we start our trek through the thick forest land of Silent Valley and then through pine forests and along the streams of the Rhodo Valley. After this, we pass through grasslands and shola forest where we may be lucky to spot giant squirrels, wild boar and the Indian Gaur. Following a packed lunch en route, we will reach Yellapetty Village, arriving late afternoon. From here we will be taken by jeeps, for approx. 20 - 30 mins, and then walk to our campsite at Oorkadu. (1750m *Full-service Camping*
Distance in Km: 16
Distance in Miles: 10
Activity Hours: 7-8
Today we have a fairly easy walk with some slight ups and downs as we trek to the beautiful village of Koviloor (1900m). Along the way we will pass through the lush vegetable farming region of Pazhathottam and the ever-present tea plantations in this part of India. We will find a shady spot for our lunch stop and then continue our trek to the tribal village of Vattavada. The customs, art forms and natural remedies of the tribes in this area make it an interesting place to trek. Our visit to Vattavada village will be an opportunity to meet the tribal people and learn about their lifestyle. If we are lucky we may also observe some rare butterfly species fluttering around. Continuing our trek we will cross a small canal before reaching our campsite at Koviloor village. It is here that farmers converge from miles around to sell their produce. *Full-service Camping*
Distance in Km: 7
Distance in Miles: 4
Activity Hours: 4-5
This last day of our trek we head through the plantation ridge. From our vantage point we have views over beautiful Koviloor village. This whole area is known as the 'market of India' because of the amount of fruit and vegetables grown. As we enjoy the scenery we may meet farmers busy with their crops. We will end our trek with a packed lunch under the trees while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds us. After lunch we take jeeps for approximately 5 to 6 hours (depending on traffic) to our hotel in Mundhan. (650m) *Standard Hotel*
Distance in Km: 7
Distance in Miles: 4
Activity Hours: 4-5
Leaving Kerala behind we drive for approx. 2-3 hrs through the plains to the colourful temple town of Madurai, in Tamil Nadu. Madurai is one of the oldest and most fascinating cities in south India. The great Sri Meenakshi Temple, most of which was built during the Nayak period between the 16th and 18th centuries, is at the heart of the city and the life of the town revolves around it. It is a hive of activity and the scene of an almost continuous religious festival. Worshippers bathe in the tank of the Golden Lily and throng the Hall of a Thousand Pillars, where each one is uniquely carved. Madurai is a perfect place to wander around and experience Hindu culture. *Comfortable Hotel* / /
Leaving Madurai in the morning we drive to the small village of Thekkady. The drive is spectacular as the road climbs through the Western Ghats and we have fantastic views across Tamil Nadu. Thekkady is a small bustling village from where we visit the Periyar National Park. This whole area is a centre for spice growing and after lunch, there will be a short walk around a spice garden, where we can see many different spices growing. There is plenty of time in the afternoon to explore the bazaar, where we can visit the numerous shops selling cardamoms, vanilla, peppercorns, chillies, turmeric and other spices. Total driving time approx. 4-5 hrs. *Standard Hotel*
The Periyar National Park is one of the largest in south India and is set around a large man-made lake. In the early morning we will have a short nature walk in the surrounding tropical forest and in the afternoon an optional boat trip and cruise on the lake (tickets for the cruise can be purchased online in advance. We recommend this in order to avoid long queues. Please inform your leader if you wish to purchase tickets in advance). This is an ideal opportunity to spot birds, such as kingfishers, storks and hornbills, and occasionally we may spot an elephant, otters, wild pig and buffalo. There is also the opportunity of an Ayurvedic massage (optional), which can be arranged in the nearby Ayurvedic massage centre, and also a cooking class (optional). The park will most likely be your last chance for souvenir shopping. Card payments are taken and there is also an ATM. *Standard Hotel*
Distance in Km: 5
Distance in Miles: 3
Activity Hours: 2-3
Today we begin by transferring to Allepey on the coast. We board our houseboats and begin our cruise along the backwaters of Kerala. The houseboat cruise is one of the highlights of the trip - these enchanting houseboats, built of Anjili wood and bamboo, were the traditional method of transporting of goods for hundreds of years. Now they have been decorated and made into comfortable cruise boats. The network of rivers, streams, lagoons and canals occupies the alluvial plain between the Western Ghats and the Indian Ocean. As our boat meanders through areas of lush tropical vegetation we have the opportunity to view not only the prolific bird life but also gain a differing perspective on village life. All the houseboats are comfortably equipped and have 3 or 4 twin bedded rooms with ensuite bathrooms. There is a cook, boat driver and assistants for each boat and the food served is traditional Keralan fare using local produce. No trip to Kerala would be complete without the wonderful experience of the backwaters aboard these traditional Keralite vessels. *Houseboat*
After a relaxing breakfast on the houseboats, we will disembark and drive along the scenic Malabar Coast to our homestay, which is situated near a beautiful stretch of beach. There is plenty of time to relax here and explore the local fisherman's village. *Homestay*
We head back to Cochin and during the afternoon there will be a guided tour; this will include Mattancherry Palace built by the Portuguese as a gift for the Raja of Cochin, the Jewish synagogue dating from 1568 and St Francis church. We also explore the town of Cochin, its bazaars and old harbour area. Fort Cochin is believed to be the earliest European settlement in India and was founded by the Portuguese in 1503. Warehouses filled with the smell of tea and spices are lime-washed bright green, yellow and blue; rickety old bikes and hand-painted trucks, piled high with goods fill the narrow streets and food stalls stand on every corner. Further along the road, you come to Mattancherry and the Dutch Palace. Next to the Palace is the synagogue, built in 1568 for the Jewish members of Cochin's trading communities (please bear in mind that the synagogue is closed on Saturdays). Most people choose to stay in Fort Cochin and wander around its fascinating streets. In the evening there is the chance for an optional visit to see a display of Kathakali Dancing, a form of dance unique to Kerala. *Comfortable Hotel*
If you are on the group flights you will have an early morning transfer to the airport for the flight back to London. Those not flying with the group will leave us at the hotel in Cochin.
* 8 nights hotels, 4 nights camping, 1 night homestay, 1 night houseboat
* 5 days point-to-point trekking with full porterage; plus 2 shorter walks
* Altitude maximum 2630m, average 1600m
* Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min. age 16 yrs
All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners included.
On day 1 you should be given breakfast on the flight. It is full board on
trek (5 days) and on the houseboat (1 day). You should allow at least £12
(approx. US$16) per day for lunch and dinner when not included. You can eat
out very cheaply in India, but if you go to the more expensive restaurants
most of the time, you will spend more than the suggested amount. In most of
the towns there is a good choice of restaurants and a choice between Indian
and Western style food. If you are a vegetarian, India is probably one of the
best destinations to travel to. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A
(large!) bottle of beer is approximately £3 (approx. US$4.80). Please note
that hotels (apart from 5-star hotels) and bars in Kerala are no longer
allowed to sell alcohol, it is still possible to buy alcohol in government
shops. Mineral water is available. Please note that service in restaurants
can be quite slow. All meals are included on the houseboat, where traditional
Kerala cuisine is served. If you require any other cuisine, please inform us
in advance.
* 8 nights hotels, 4 nights camping, 1 night homestay, 1 night houseboat
* 5 days point-to-point trekking with full porterage; plus 2 shorter walks
* Altitude maximum 2630m, average 1600m
* Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min. age 16 yrs
*Activity Level: 3 (Moderate)*
Although this is not a demanding walking tour, it is a busy and active
itinerary with lots to see. Driving time is kept to minimum and the roads are
generally pretty good, but local traffic and/or road damage can sometimes
lengthen journey times. This trek is suitable for the average walker who is
prepared to put in some physical preparation.
Most days are not overly taxing (apart from day 8 when there is the option
for an easy walk) and most of the trails are on well made reasonable paths
but are steep in places. Daytime temperatures can be very hot in the middle
of the day and the sun is very strong. Nights will be cooler and 3 nights of
the trek can be very cold, particularly during December and January, with
temperatures just below freezing. Walking hours stated are given as
approximates only. Timings stated include lunch and photo stops and will vary
depending on the pace of your group.
You may find our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference:
Please"http://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/pdf/Exodus_WT_Fitness_Training_Guide.pdf...
note that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the
conservation of many monuments in India and very occasionally this may mean
that work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI's schedule
is never published so it is not possible to forewarn our clients of when work
will be taking place.
* *
Hotels, Camping, Homestay & Houseboat
You will spend 8 nights in hotels with ensuite facilities, 4 nights in
full-service camps, 1 night in a homestay and 1 night on a houseboat.
Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are really only a couple
of months in the year when the weather can be cooler. You can however
request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater
for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this
matter.
Houseboats are comfortable and all cabins have toilet facilities. The
houseboat also benefits from a deck & dining area. The number of rooms per
boat will vary depending on group size and availability. Whilst camping
(full-service), the group will be provided with 2 man tents, mattresses, a
dining tent, kitchen tent including all equipment, toilet tents including
toilet rolls and camping chairs.
Please note that single rooms may be limited at the homestay.
The trip is led by a local English-speaking leader along with a local driver.
Local guides will be used at various sights. Our Indian team of leaders have
proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality
adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian
culture than letting an Indian guide show you around their country.
All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners included.
On day 1 you should be given breakfast on the flight. It is full board on
trek (5 days) and on the houseboat (1 day). You should allow at least £12
(approx. US$16) per day for lunch and dinner when not included. You can eat
out very cheaply in India, but if you go to the more expensive restaurants
most of the time, you will spend more than the suggested amount. In most of
the towns there is a good choice of restaurants and a choice between Indian
and Western style food. If you are a vegetarian, India is probably one of the
best destinations to travel to. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A
(large!) bottle of beer is approximately £3 (approx. US$4.80). Please note
that hotels (apart from 5-star hotels) and bars in Kerala are no longer
allowed to sell alcohol, it is still possible to buy alcohol in government
shops. Mineral water is available. Please note that service in restaurants
can be quite slow. All meals are included on the houseboat, where traditional
Kerala cuisine is served. If you require any other cuisine, please inform us
in advance.
All transport is by private air-conditioned minibus plus a backwater cruise
in a traditional houseboat from Kerala.
Please note while on trek your main luggage is transported by jeep to each of
the campsites.
*Travelling flight inclusive from London: 16 days*
The group flight from London is an overnight flight departing the day before
Day 1 of the itinerary.
*Flights from London*
We normally use the scheduled services of Emirates (depending on
availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend
you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm
up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may change at a later date and
cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before departure. Please
note when transferring flights in Mumbai you will need to collect your
luggage and check in again for your on‐going flight.
*Travelling land only: 15 days starting and ending in Cochin*
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Cochin in the afternoon of
Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided
in the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent approximately two weeks before
departure. Accommodation check‐in times are normally from around 12 noon.
Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights. Please note
that transfers are not included for clients arriving on any other flight,
even if Exodus has booked it.
If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be
able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to coincide with the
arrival time of the group flight ‐ please check the group flight details 2
weeks before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you
must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense.
The cost of a taxi is likely to be about £12 (approx. US$16) should you
decide to make your way independently.
The most important feature of the Indian climate is the 'wet season' or
monsoon. The main monsoon strikes the coast of Kerala in late May and sweeps
its way northward over the next month or so. The ideal time to visit is
during the dry season from late November to March. Days will be hot and the
nights warm, the average range of maximum daytime temperatures being between
21ºC-30ºC and from -2ºC-20ºC at night. However, in the hills and on trek
temperatures can be considerably cooler and although the days on trek will be
hot you can expect temperatures to drop to a few degrees above zero or just
below at night for 3 nights on trek. We ask you to note that frequent
rainstorms can be expected throughout the tour on November departures. The
storms are usually of quite a short duration but have been known to be
persistent as well. This can mean that campsites can sometimes be affected by
these adverse weather conditions.
3/4 season sleeping bag (whilst on trek each individual will be provided with
a thick sleeping mattress)
Warm jacket
Fleece jacket
Lightweight leather or waterproof synthetic boots with ankle support
Socks (walking and thin)
Waterproofs
Headtorch
Sunglasses
Suncream
Wide brimmed sun hat
Warm hat and gloves
Waterbottle
Travel towel
Insect repellent
Anti-bacterial hand gel
Small personal first aid kit
Water filter for the trek (boiled water will be provided when possible)
Daypack - see note below
Dark clothing (for the nature walk in Periyar National Park to help avoid
mosquito bites)
Please note while on trek your luggage is transported by jeep to all the
campsites so you just need to carry a small pack with what you need for the
trek each day. You will then be able to access you main luggage on arrival
in camp.
We believe in reducing our negative environmental impacts wherever possible,
this goes for when you need to spend a penny in the great outdoors! If no
facilities are available there may come a time when you need to go to the loo
behind a tree/bush/rock. To avoid leaving toilet paper behind we recommend
taking biodegradable dog poo/sandwich bags with you. Once you have done your
business you can pop the used toilet roll in here and take it off the
mountain or trail at the end of the day and dispose of it when there are
appropriate facilities available.
*Please note:*
As of November 2019 the Indian government has announced a ban on e-cigarettes
and related products. You will be unable to buy e-cigarettes in India or
bring them into the country. Please ensure you do not pack these in your
luggage.
Walking poles
Umbrella (for sun and rain)
Swimwear and towel
Earplugs
Travel pillow
Entrance fees to monuments, museums and sites mentioned in the itinerary are
included, except where it says 'optional'. The optional extras are a visit to
a tea factory and tea museum (which are sometimes closed) as well as a
Kathakali Dance Show in Cochin. These cost very little and you only need to
allow a few pounds in total. The optional boat trip in Periyar is approx. £8
(or US$10).
Most museums charge extra if you take in a camera. It is recommended that you
allow at least £5 (approx. US$7) per day for personal expenditure such as
stamps, postcards and soft drinks.
Shopping opportunities throughout this tour are endless and we suggest that
you take as much as you can afford for souvenirs - even if you are generally
not a keen shopper we have found that most people succumb to some of the wide
variety of handicrafts on offer.
During your trip, it is highly likely that your local guides will take you to
emporiums as well as workshops where these goods are made. Many people find
this a great opportunity to buy local handicrafts, silk, jewellery and
carpets. Guides will often assume that visitors will want to go shopping, it
is very much part of the culture, however, if you do not wish to go please
make this clear to your local guide at the time.
Tipping is very much part of the culture in India and is usually expected.
Tipping can often be an awkward affair, especially when in an unfamiliar
country where you are not sure when or how much to tip. As such, your tour
leader will offer to arrange and look after a group tipping kitty which will
be used to tip hotel staff, local sightseeing guides, bus drivers as well as
any other support staff used throughout your trip. Your leader will suggest
how much to contribute, depending on group size, but it is usually in the
region of 3000 INR (approx. GBP£34 US$45) per person. At any time during the
trip, your leader will be happy to show you an account of how the kitty is
being distributed. Tipping of leaders is not included in the kitty and is at
your own discretion.
If you wish to show your appreciation a tip of around £2-3 (CAD $3-5, USD
$3-4, AUD$4-6) per person per day would be appreciated. By definition,
gratuities are not something that can be included in the tour price.
* Travel insurance
* Visas and vaccinations
* Single supplement
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.
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