Spice Trails of Kerala

Traversing the Western Ghats, from the colonial hill station of Munnar to the colourful temple town of Madurai, we discover the two southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kerala is a tropical paradise with idyllic beaches, fertile forests and plantations of spice and tea; here we reach our highest point, the peak of Meesapulimala (8,630ft/2,630m). We then cross into the barren landscape of Tamil Nadu and marvel at the intricately carved Sri Meenakshi Temple at Madurai. A trip to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary boasts an array of wildlife and an abundance of colourful birdlife, and a cruise on a traditional houseboat offers the chance to relax on the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. Our journey ends in historic Kochi (also known as Cochin), a port which has been luring traders and explorers for more than 600 years.

We spend eight nights in hotels, four nights in full-service camps, one night in a homestay and one 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 and dining area. The number of rooms per boat will vary depending on group size and availability. While camping (full-service), the group will be provided with two-person tents, mattresses, a dining tent, kitchen tent including all equipment, toilet tents including toilet rolls, and camping chairs.



Worth knowing



The single supplement is available at the hotels and full-service camping, but may be limited at the homestay.