During the morning city tour of Kochi , you will be taken to some of the renowned spots of Kochi that will include the Portuguese churches, mosques and temples along with the Jewish synagogue.
You will be taken to watch the Chinese style fishing nets which are mostly seen in Kerala. It holds around 10m of height and consists of cantilever along with an outstretched net that is suspended in the sea and one huge stone suspended on other end with ropes for the counterweights. Every installation of this fishing-net gets operated by group of six fishermen.
Today you have the afternoon at leisure.
Evening Kathakali Dances show at auditorium.
Day cruise on Houseboat with lunch ( 4 hours duration)- Alleppey to Alleppey Rountrip by Houseboat
Today you will leave for Alleppey. Alappuzha gets its name from two words, Ala (broad) and Puzha (river). Alappuzha gets this name as it is between the broad Arabian Sea and a network of rivers flowing into it. When Lord Curzon the then Viceroy of the India saw Alappuzha, he exclaimed “Here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties” and called this place “Alleppey, the Venice of the East”. History traded ancient Greece and Romans even before Christ and also during the middle Ages. Different religions mingled and built their churches, mosques and temples.
You will embark a houseboat which is quite an experience and enjoy Day cruise on houseboat with lunch for 4 hours.
Disembark houseboat in Alleppey & transfer to hotel In Alleppey.
Overnight at hotel in Alleppey.
Today you will leave for Kumarakom. Rest of the day free at hotel. Kumarakom is on the shores of the freshwater Vembanad Lake and has a large variety of flora and fauna. Arundhati Roy's novel "The God of Small Things" which won the Booker Prize is set in Ayemenem village, near Kumarakom. Fruit like banana, mango, jackfruit pineapple, etc. grow here in abundance and the place is a lush green covered with paddy fields and coconut groves. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the home for many species of local as well as migratory birds. Kettuvallam boats are used for fishing and transporting goods.
Today you have the afternoon at leisure.
Guided Tour of Kumarakom Village
After leisure breakfast check out from the houseboat at 09.00am and proceed Kumarkaom. On arrival proceed to enjoy the village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and this small water world is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live There in flocks are a fascination for visitors. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands. Kumarakom, located on the Southern coast of India enjoys a well-balanced tropical climate. Nature has composed its magic to perfection here. A million verdant coconut palms lining the rivers lean to examine its reflections on the glassy rivers. Everywhere, nature is at its best. Blooming forth in perfumes of flowers. In the riot of colors of multi-hued birds. In the fresh, succulent and bountiful freshwater fishes.
THE EXPERIENCE
Kumarakom is a cluster of small picturesque islands around the Vembanad Lake. The village is well acclaimed for its backwaters, delicious cuisines and greenery. This tourist destination, over the years, is one of the most-visited in Kerala. Our journey will begin at Kavanatinkara after a briefing session. You will be accompanied by a guide who will familiarize you to the picturesque landscapes and the lush green surroundings of Kumarakom and whole program takes about 2.5-3 hrs.
STOPOVER 1 : SHORT SHIKHARA BOAT ( 15 MINUTES APPROX)
Your journey begins in a Shikhara boat. Proceed over a lake flanked by greens, to the manjira village. Get a grand reception from villagers.
STOPOVER 2: AT THE TOP OF A COCONUT TREE
Your journey begins in a Shikhara boat. Proceed over a lake flanked by greens, to the manjira village. Get a grand reception from villagers.
Learn how the times changed, as Ajeesh shows you two ways of climbing a coconut tree-the laborious traditional way using a thalappu and the modern way using latest instruments. Celebrate the end of class by treating yourself to fresh tender coconut.
STOPOVER 3 : TASTE OF TENDER COCONUT
Enjoy the beauty of lush green paddy fields at Sabu’s house. In his coconut grove, you will get to taste some sweet coconut water and tender coconut. Then you head to Ajeesh’s home.
STOPOVER 4 : TODDY TAPPING
Proceed across paddy fields to reach the next stopover-a coconut grove. Taste the famed Kerala beverages, toddy, and fresh out of the pot. Watch toddy being nearby, and learn about unique plants and spices.
STOPOVER 5 : GOWRI’S HOME
Gowri takes you through the art of weaving coconut leaves. Then she lets you try your hand at it.
STOPOVER 6 : NET FISHING
Suresh a skilled fisherman of manjira, will teach you some tried-and-true fishing tips. Watch in awe as he casts a net and catches a few with ease. We then proceed to Latha’s home in a little boat.
STOPOVER 7 : LATHA’S HOUSE
Latha’s home is where you get to watch the fascinating process of coir-making. Check out the various steps involved and try your hand at coir spinning.
STOPOVER 8 : WORLD OF SCREW PINES
Learn from omana how screw pine products are made. Don’t forget to buy the one or two that catch your fancy.
Later drive back to Kumarakom check in on arrival and relax, **Overnight stay**.
