The Chalukyas ruled large parts of Southern and Central India between the 6th and the 12th centuries. They ruled as three related yet individual dynasties. The earliest of them were known as the “Badami Chalukyas”. The Badami Chalukya architecture was a temple building idiom that evolved in the Malaprabha river basin, in present-day Bagalkot district. Chalukya style originated in Aihole and was perfected in Badami and Pattadakal. Their style includes two types of monuments: rock cut halls or "cave temples", and "structural" temples, built above ground. Art critic Dr. M. Sheshadri wrote of the Chalukya art that they cut rock like Titans but finished like jewellers. The Chalukya temples provide a fine balance of versatility and restrain. On this journey we will visit all three of the major locations for Chalukya architecture - Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal. This journey will be led by Dr. Raghavendra Rao H. Kulkarni, Professor, Department of Art History, College of Fine Arts, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath. Dr Kulkarni is a well-known expert of art history and has worked extensively on Badami Chalukya temples. He has to his credit multiple publications/books and research papers on related topics.

Alleppey Houseboat Day Cruise Kerala also known as the “God’s Own Country”, is an attractive state situated at the southern corner of India offers a vacation filled with tranquillity. One can explore the mystical land of Kerala and have a beautiful, renewing and satisfying experience. Enjoy the Venice of the East the Right way -Alleppey(Alappuzha) Houseboat Day Cruise  – On a houseboat cruising along the hamlets and canals during the day and anchored in the middle of the largest lake in Kerala for the day. Alleppey Houseboat Day Cruise for two people, Lunch and 5 Hours of Cruise Included. Starting from 6000/- for two people.  Itinerary For Alleppey Houseboat Day Cruise Day 1 - Alleppey Houseboat Day Cruise   Live the unique experience of staying on a houseboat for the rest of the day. The boats are self- sufficient and cater to all creature comforts based on the requirements. Pre-order your meal with us, including special requests and dietary needs. The meals are cooked fresh on the boat and served as per your convenience. Cruise through the canals of Punnamada Lake and Vembanad Lake watching life on the banks as you pass by hamlets and Chinese fishing nets. Get your cameras and minds ready for that magic moment of the sunset in Kerala Backwaters. Enjoy your lunch amidst the backwaters with the slow murmur of the lake and the boat slow rocking you. An excellent time for the nature lovers and photographers to flirt with their cameras on green paddy fields. The houseboats in Kerala are huge, slow-moving barges used for leisure trips. They are a reworked model of Kettuvallams (in the Malayalam language, Kettu means tied with ropes, and vallam means boat), which, in earlier times, were used to carry rice and spices from Kuttanad to the Kochi port. Kerala houseboats were considered a convenient means of transportation. Such a houseboat is about 60 to 70 feet (18 to 21 m) long and about 15 feet (4.6 m) wide at the middle. The hull is made of wooden planks that are held together by ropes of coconut fiber; the natural wood is Anjili. The roof is made of bamboo poles and palm leaves. The exterior of the boat is painted with protective coats of cashew nut oil. Finish your trip with some shopping of Kerala chips and some typical coir products of the region Destinations/Locations Alappuzha:  Alappuzha also referred as Alleppey. It is a city in Alleppey District of Kerala State in India. The word Alappuzha means land which is between Sea and network of rivers. One of the most beautiful cities of Kerala, Alleppey is also known as “Venice of the East”. At Alappuzha, one will find beaches, backwaters, springs, canals.The most attractive and loved part of Alleppey is its backwaters and is the reason tourists visit Alleppey in big numbers. The backwaters join Kumarakom in the East, Cochin towards the North and Quilon to the South. The annual boat race at Alappuzha named Nehru Trophy Boat Race which happens on Punnamada Lake is well known around the world. The race takes place on the second Saturday of August every year.This race is fascinating and fun to watch and an opportunity to watch the great boat race stars as they more or less“fly” the boats. Owing to its proximity to the sea, the climate of Alappuzha is humid and hot during the summer, although it remains fairly cool and pleasant during the months of October to December.   **This is an indicative itinerary for textual reading - final package might vary based on the customer chosen locations and attractions**    

Fascinating Kerala Tour Package - 5D4N - Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha, Kochi  Kerala is known as the “God’s Own Country”, is an attractive state situated at the southern corner of India offers a vacation filled with tranquillity. One can explore the mystical land of Kerala and have a beautiful, renewing and satisfying experience. Fascinating  Kerala Tour Package 5D4N starting from 18000.Destination Include Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha, Kochi. Fascinating  Kerala Tour Package 5D4N includes transfers from Kochi and back, a 3-star accommodation, Breakfast, Sightseeing. Itinerary for Fascinating Kerala Tour Package - 5D4N - Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha, Kochi           Day 1 - Kochi to Munnar Tourist Spots Cheeyappara Waterfalls Special Activities (Chargeable activity) Spice Garden Visit Kalaripayattu Day 2 – Munnar sightseeing Tourist Spots Rose Gardens Munnar Matupetty Dam Sun Moon Valley Boating Centre Echo Point Kundala Dam lake Eravikulam National Park Kannan Devan Tea Museum Special activities (Chargeable activity) Tea Garden Visit Sun Moon Valley Boating Day 3 - Munnar to Thekkady Tourist Spots Periyar National Park Special Activities(Chargeable activity) Boating in Periyar Tiger Reserve Elephant Safari Day 4 – Alappuzha Houseboat Overnight Stay Head to the backwaters of Kerala ( Alapuzzha) to live the unique experience of staying on a houseboat for the rest of the day and night. The boats are self- sufficient and cater to all creature comforts based on the requirements. Pre-order your meal with us, including special requests and dietary requirements. The meals are cooked fresh on the boat and served as per your convenience. Cruise through the canals of Punnamada and Vembanad watching life on the banks as you pass by hamlets. Get your cameras and minds ready for that magic moment of the sunset. Enjoy your dinner under the starlit skies with the slow murmur of the lake and the boat slow rocking you to sleep. Day 5 – Drop at Kochi after sightseeing Tourist Spots Marari Beach Jews Street Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica Mattancherry Palace Paradesi Synagogue Chinese Fishing Nets Locations/Destinations in Fascinating Kerala Tour Package - 5D4N Munnar :  Munnar is a beautiful hill station in the Western Ghats of the Idukki district of Kerala. With the high mountains, tree cover, hazy mist filled valleys & winding lakes it is blessed with, Munnar has a peaceful and lovely climate through the year. The extensive tea estates that line the mountain ranges around Munnar add unique beauty and provide amazing views and memories which can be made in very few hill stations anywhere in the world. The hills around Munnar are also home to quite a few waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries adding to the delectable charm of Munnar. Munnar is also known for the wild orchids locally called Neelakurinchi that usually blooms once in 12 years.Munnar means "three rivers", coming from the fact that it lies at the confluence of three streams. The hills are dotted with little picture perfect towns. The tea estates in Munnar have a colonial past to them reflected in the many colonial bungalows that can be found among the tea estates. While holidaying in Munnar, one has many options for trekking and walks through the mountains taking in the fresh mountain air. All these factors make Munnar quite a hit among the tourists. Thekkady  :  Thekkady, located in Idukki district of Kerala, is the location of the Periyar National Park, which is an important tourist attraction in the Kerala state of India.Thekkady is one of the wildlife tourism destinations of Kerala. Thick forests, semi-evergreen and savanna grasslands are the main features of Thekkady. Animals like tigers, gaur, lion-tailed macaques, elephants, sambar and Nilgiri langurs are found in Periyar National Park. At Thekkady, one can also find spices like cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and clove. Winters are by far the best time to visit Thekkady as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. The maximum temperature goes up to 15 degrees Celsius, and this is a great time to go for wildlife safaris and admire the natural beauty of Thekkady. You can also enjoy the many festivals which take place during this time in Thekkady. The monsoons are another great time to visit Thekkady. The temperature drops slightly, and the surroundings are draped in a cloak of rich greenery. It is a great time to enjoy the rain washed beauty of Thekkady. Do make sure you carry an umbrella or raincoat along as rain showers are frequent and heavy. Alappuzha:  Alappuzha also referred as Alleppey. It is a city in Alleppey District of Kerala State in India. The word Alappuzha means land which is between Sea and network of rivers. One of the most beautiful cities of Kerala, Alleppey is also known as “Venice of the East”. At Alappuzha, one will find beaches, backwaters, springs, canals.The most attractive and loved part of Alleppey is its backwaters and is the reason tourists visit Alleppey in big numbers. The backwaters join Kumarakom in the East, Cochin towards the North and Quilon to the South. The annual boat race at Alappuzha named Nehru Trophy Boat Race which happens on Punnamada Lake is well known around the world. The race takes place on the second Saturday of August every year.This race is fascinating and fun to watch and an opportunity to watch the great boat race stars as they more or less“fly” the boats. Owing to its proximity to the sea, the climate of Alappuzha is humid and hot during the summer, although it remains fairly cool and pleasant during October to December. Kochi: The beautiful port city of Kochi was formerly called Cochin. It is an important seaport of India. Kochi is located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala.Kochi plays an important role not just in today’s economy of the state of Kerala but also in the economic history of Kerala. It is one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Kochi is the place where one can find a wonderful mix of history and natural beauty. Lush mangroves, coconut trees reflected in the translucent waters of backwaters, ancient churches, cathedrals, and fort for tourists on sightseeing tours of Cochin would find all these and more. Flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the majestic looking Arabian Sea in the west, Kochi occupies a very strategic location and has been a significant trading zone and attractive tourist destination since time immemorial. Details of Tourist Spots in Fascinating Kerala Tour Package - 5D4N - Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha, Kochi           Cheeyappara waterfalls: Cheeyappara Waterfalls is a famous destination for tourists visiting Munnar. Munnar is known as Swiss of South India. It has a varying terrestrial terrain that consists of water cascades, rolling hills, verdant valleys, dense forests and tea, coffee and spice plantations. Cheeyappara Waterfalls is considered the best among all the waterfalls in the State of Kerala. The Waterfall cascades down in seven steps and also offers a great opportunity for trekking. The beauty of the waterfalls increases during the monsoon season that's in June, July, and August.  It becomes impossible to reach the bottom of the falls during this time of the year. The water of Cheeyappara Waterfalls does not dry up even in summer months. Cheeyappara Waterfalls is in the vicinity of evergreen forests that span about 2 acres. Trekkers who want to go on a nature walk in the forest make Cheeyappara as their base camp. The rock, which spans more than 500 acres, is a favorite spot for mountaineers. Rose Gardens Munnar: Rosegarden is almost a century old building erected in the midst of cardamom plantations in two acres of land. It is nestled in a perfectly calm and cool environment, surrounded by hills and dales, rivers and waterfalls. It is wrapped with spices and crops like cardamom, vanilla and all varieties of fruit trees including Lichi, Rambutan, Strawberry and Amla and an equally large variety of flowering plants. Rose Garden is constructed with fine stones, tiled roof, and wooden ceiling. The twin cubicula rooms can accommodate two families. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with built-in traditional style verandahs that overlook the lush green forest. Each room is equipped with necessary facilities and during the stay; guests are served with mouth-watering home cooked food.  Cooking classes are provided for those who want to learn traditional Kerala food. The homestay is arranged by those who come to Munnar for trekking. As per the convenience of the visitors, the Home arranges for both short & long trekking trips of different durations.  Matupetty Dams:   About 13 km away from Munnar and at an elevation of 1700m resides the hill station, Mattupetty. Cradled amongst the plantation hills of Munnar, Mattupetty is a habitat for various birds and animals and also a popular tourist attraction. One main attraction in Mattupetty is the beautiful lake and the concrete Gravity dam built on the lake. The dam was constructed in the late 1940s for water conservation and power generation. It is 160 feet high. The reservoir it creates stretches out several kilometers. An enchanting aspect of the Mattupetty dam is its tranquil waters, and a cruise here is an invigorating experience. The continuous availability of water allows the wild animals and birds to thrive in the regions around. A herd of elephants, gaurs and sambar deer can be spotted now and then around the lake, and it is a sight to behold. Mattupetty is just the perfect getaway if you are looking to take a break from your hectic lifestyle. And yes, don't forget to take your camera along. Sun Moon Valley Boating Centre: The boating center is located at a distance of 13 Km away from Munnar. The most attractive feature is the serene beauty that can be experienced with the reflection of the tea garden around the water. Tourist can opt to go on a boat ride along the lake or even enjoy the calmness of the environment. The valley is nestled in the hills of Munnar. The valley has also been called to fame for its Indo Swiss Farm project that launched in the year 1963. The ideal time frame to pay a visit to the valley is between August and May.  Echo point: This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. One can make sound and hear its echo in these acres of lush greenery. Echo Point is a pit stop for tourists en route to Top Station from Munnar. Echo point is one of the breathtaking spots on earth Top station is the highest point in Munnar, and the rare Neelakurinji (Strobilanthus) blooms here. The moist, moldy acres of mountains spread out here are astonishingly beautiful. It calls for one to let their spirit out, quite literally. One can either choose a quiet, thoughtful hike up the mountains or choose to scream and hear their voices echoed. Distant chirping and cooing of birds become clear here, and one can completely bask in the glory of the mist-filled skies. Echo Point's scenic gorgeousness is because of the clustered tea plantations and spice and coffee gardens that resulted in its popularity amongst trekkers and nature strollers.In a completely tranquil and rejuvenating environment, strollers and trekkers can move along the smooth slopes and photograph moments of serenity and abundant natural beauty.  Kundala Dam lake:  Located at about 20 km from Munnar on the way to Top Station is a picturesque place called Kundala. It is at the height of 1700 meters above sea level. In Kundala, cherry blossoms appear twice in a year. Once in twelve years the hills and valleys around Kundala Lake get covered by the great Neela Kurunji flowers. An artificial dam built around the lake claims to be Asia's first Arch Dam. The boating at this lake is a wonderful experience and is beyond words. The boating facilities available here are pedal boats, Kashmiri shikkara boats, and rowboats. They can be rented to make your trip more enjoyable. From its top, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the lush green surroundings. When the backdrop is a serene lake and an impressive dam, your pictures will never go unnoticed. The best time to capture some remarkable pictures is early mornings when the beautiful sun rays fall on the lake to create a glittering effect.  Eravikulam National Park: Spread over 97sq.km and one of most sought-after destination in Munnar is the Eravikulam national park. It is also known as Rajamalai National Park, the first of its kind in Kerala. This park is a sanctuary not only for the endangered mountain goat of South India, the Nilgiri Tahr, but also several other species of rare animals, bird, and butterflies. The varied fauna of the park also includes around 132 species of birds, guaranteeing that the park is teeming with life forms.The park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and also of the rolling hills caressed by blankets of mist. Anamudi, the highest peak (2695 m) in south India, stands elegantly in the core of the national park. Once in twelve years, the hill slopes get covered in a carpet of blue, resulting from the flowering of Neelakurinji.  The park offers an unforgettable experience. Do not visit the park during the early months of the year as the park remains closed for the calving of Nilgiri Tahr. Kannan Devan Tea museum: Kannan Devan Tea Museum is the first tea museum of its kind in the country. The museum displays the growth of the century-old tea plantations and industry. The tea museum preserves the aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's mountain region in the Idukki district. The plantation started out with a simple tea roller and had grown into a fully automated tea factory of Madupatty. It has become one of the major attractions in Munnar.A visit to the Tea Museum is an insightful experience. The museum exhibits the ancient bungalow furniture, magneto phone, cash safe, wooden bathtub, iron oven, etc. They will show you how tea is making from green leaf to finish products. You can buy tea also from there. The museum explains about the history Tea Plantations in Munnar. Visiting this tea museum gives a good awareness of the past and present tea processing techniques. Periyar National Park: Periyar National Park, also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, located in the mountainous Western Ghats of Kerala. This wildlife sanctuary homes tigers and a significant elephant population, as well as rare lion-tailed macaques, sambar deer, leopards and Indian bison. In the northern part of the park is the Periyar Lake, popular for boat rides. Periyar National Park is a protected wildlife reserve, and the Periyar river flows around the contours of the wooded hills as a permanent source of water for the animals. Even though the park is extremely wild, it can still be enjoyed from a boat. The park will astound you with its 925 sq. km of hidden valleys, wildflowers, and sightings of elephants and tigers. Periyar River nourishes the natural flora bustling with fluttering butterflies and birds. It is one of the most significant reserves in India. Periyar Tiger Reserve will provide an authentic forest experience. Marari Beach:  Nestled in the Alappuzha District of Kerala, Marari beach is a peaceful place to relax and unwind. Those who visit Marari can soak up the serenity and tranquillity on the deserted sandy beaches. The beach is quite beautiful, and the name 'Marari' arises from 'Mararikulum', which is a local village on the Arabian Sea Coast. The beach is not usually flocked by tourists so that you can enjoy seclusion and peace at its very best here. Marari Beach is a pristine paradise hidden away from all sorts commercialization. The slow pace of local life makes vacationing at the Marari beach a reviving experience. One can roam around the beach as there are plenty of sightseeing places where you can spend some quality time, which makes the trip interesting. In August, you can enjoy Snake Boat Races. Sea surfing, parasailing, water skiing, and deep sea fishing are some of the activities that attract adventures to Marari Beach. Jews Street: It's like a walk down the lanes of antiquities. The Jew Street is lined with shops on the roadside that sell carved wooden furniture, antique pieces of crockery, curious, bronze and brass sculptures, remnants of traditional houses, and jewelry. The antique vendors of these streets are the descendants of the Jews who settled down here during 52 AD. Every piece that they sell has its own story to say - of a palace or a home of the nobility, of travels across many lands and ages. There is a Jewish Synagogue here which is a mark of exceptional architecture and history. The Paradesi Synagogue was built during the year of 1568. It is a fascination for hundreds of visitor’s every day. There are a few other Jewish settlements too in the State. But Kochi has made a name with the synagogue and the popular antique shops that surround it. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica: The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica at Fort Kochi is one of the eight Basilicas in Kerala. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is the oldest church in India, built by the Portuguese in 1505. This church is one of the finest and most impressive churches in India and visited by tourists the year round. Even though it is a place of worship, it is a center of historical significance, endowed with the gothic style of artistic grandeur and colors. It was built by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558, was spared by the Dutch but was Later destroyed by the British. It is one of only eight basilicas in India. It has a Gothic frontage and soaring spires which makes it a beautiful building from the outside. The inside is ornate and huge. Biblical scenes are painted on the panels in the ceiling which is very high. There are so many details and colors inside that some consider it gaudy while others consider it beautiful. Mattancherry Palace: Mattancherry Palace is a Portuguese palace popularly known as the Dutch Palace in Kochi. The palace features Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits, and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi. The Palace was built and gifted by the Portuguese as a present to the king of Cochin around 1555 to appease him after they plundered a temple nearby. The palace has a Bhagavathi Temple in the central courtyard. It is built like the typical Kerala style mansion - the Nalukettu - the home of the aristocracy, nobility and upper classes, with four separate wings opening out to a central courtyard.The double storeyed palace which stands by the picturesque Kochi backwaters has an exquisite collection of murals collectively covering over its walls. The themes of these murals are from the great Indian epics - the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. It also depicts mythology and legends about the Hindu gods especially Guruvayurappan. Royal equipment like weapons, swings, and furniture which offer a glimpse of the lifestyle of the royal family are displayed here. Paradesi Synagogue: The Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue located in Kochi. It was constructed in 1567, and it is one of seven synagogues of the Malabar Yehudan or Yehudan Mappila people or Cochin Jewish community in the Kingdom of Cochin. The local translation of the term Paradesi is "foreigners". The synagogue is housed in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town. It is the only one of the seven synagogues in the area still in use and is built adjacent to Mattancherry Palace. The Cochin Jews have no rabbis, and the community is led by elders.One of the valuable possessions of the synagogue is the copper plates belonging to the 4th century with inscriptions in Malayalam. The inscriptions state the privileges granted to the community by the erstwhile Cochin king. It is inscribed in mirror image writing. The last Ethiopian Emperor gifted to the Jews with an oriental rug by the last which is also kept in the synagogue. Chinese Fishing Nets: Called ‘Cheena Vala’ in local parlance, the huge cantilevered fishing nets that droop towards the waters like over-sized hammocks. It has become a hallmark that represents Fort Kochi on the tourist map. Once this fishing accessory baited fishes, now it baits tourists.The sight of the Chinese nets, suspended in midair and standing in line on the beaches when silhouetted against the sunset is stunning. It is one of the most photographed sights in Kochi. For the best view of the nets, head to the Vasco Da Gama Square. Each fishing net is operated by more than four fishermen and is made in such a way that the weight of a man walking on the main plank causes the equipment to be pulled down into the sea. Fishing is usually done in the morning and early evening. The net is submerged into the water for an interval and is then raised by pulling the ropes. The slow rhythm and balancing of the net are spellbinding the first-time viewer.                  

Alappuzha Houseboat Tour Package 2 Days 1 Night “God’s Own Country” as Kerala is called, is an attractive state situated at the southern corner of India offers a vacation filled with tranquillity. One can explore the mystical land of Kerala and have a beautiful, renewing and satisfying experience. Kerala Tour Packages offers quality time relaxing on the sun-soaked beaches, visits to renowned temples which shed light to its history and fantastic architecture, a backwater cruise on a houseboat, Adventure treks, Jungle Safaris, Elephant Safari, Visits to Dams, Bamboo rafting, Palaces and the modern life vogue of Kochi. Experience the exotic cuisine of different parts of the state. It has every ingredient that makes it a perfect recipe for a memorable vacation. Alappuzha Houseboat Tour Package 2 Days 1 Night Includes Transfer from Kochi to Kochi, All Meals, 6 Hours of Cruise, Sightseeing. Itinerary for Alappuzha Houseboat Tour Package 2 Days 1 Night Day 1 - Kochi to Alappuzha Get picked up from Cochin International Airport and Head to the backwaters of Kerala ( Alappuzha) to live the unique experience of staying on a houseboat for the rest of the day and night. The boats are self- sufficient and cater to all creature comforts based on the requirements. Pre-order your meal with us, including special requests and dietary requirements. The meals are cooked fresh on the boat and served as per your convenience. Cruise through the canals of Punnamada and Vembanad watching life on the banks as you pass by hamlets. Get your cameras and minds ready for that magic moment of the sunset. Enjoy your dinner under the starlit skies with the slow murmur of the lake and the boat slow rocking you to sleep. Day 2 – Alappuzha to Kochi Wake up on the houseboat at sunrise to enjoy the sight of the sun rising from behind the infinite sea. After breakfast on the houseboat head towards the beautiful, clean and serene beaches of Alappuzha to soak your feet in the Arabian sea and build castles on the beach and visit the following places Paradesi Synagogue Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica Chinese Fishing Nets St Francis Church Destinations/Locations Alappuzha:  Alappuzha also referred as Alleppey. It is a city in Alleppey District of Kerala State in India. The word Alappuzha means land which is between Sea and network of rivers. One of the most beautiful cities of Kerala, Alleppey is also known as “Venice of the East”. At Alappuzha, one will find beaches, backwaters, springs, canals.The most attractive and loved part of Alleppey is its backwaters and is the reason tourists visit Alleppey in big numbers. The backwaters join Kumarakom in the East, Cochin towards the North and Quilon to the South. The annual boat race at Alappuzha named Nehru Trophy Boat Race which happens on Punnamada Lake is well known around the world. The race takes place on the second Saturday of August every year.This race is very interesting and fun to watch and an opportunity to watch the great boat race stars as they more or less“fly” the boats. Owing to its proximity to the sea, the climate of Alappuzha is humid and hot during the summer, although it remains fairly cool and pleasant during the months of October to December. Kochi: The beautiful port city of Kochi was formerly called Cochin. It is an important seaport of India. Kochi is located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala.Kochi plays an important role not just in today’s economy of the state of Kerala but also in the economic history of Kerala. It is one of the finest natural harbors of the world. Kochi is the place where one can find a wonderful mix of history and natural beauty. Lush mangroves, coconut trees reflected in the translucent waters of backwaters, ancient churches, cathedrals, and for - tourists on sightseeing tours of Cochin would find all these and more. Flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the majestic looking Arabian Sea in the west, Kochi occupies a very strategic location and has been a significant trading zone and attractive tourist destination since time immemorial. Attractions Paradesi Synagogue: The Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue located in Kochi. It was constructed in 1567, and it is one of seven synagogues of the Malabar Yehudan or Yehudan Mappila people or Cochin Jewish community in the Kingdom of Cochin. The local translation of the term Paradesi is "foreigners". The synagogue is housed in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town. It is the only one of the seven synagogues in the area still in use and is built adjacent to Mattancherry Palace. The Cochin Jews have no rabbis, and the community is led by elders.One of the valuable possessions of the synagogue is the copper plates belonging to the 4th century with inscriptions in Malayalam. The inscriptions state the privileges granted to the community by the erstwhile Cochin king. It is inscribed in mirror image writing. The last Ethiopian Emperor gifted to the Jews with an oriental rug by the last which is also kept in the synagogue. Chinese Fishing Nets: Called ‘Cheena Vala’ in local parlance, the huge cantilevered fishing nets that droop towards the waters like over-sized hammocks. It has become a hallmark that represents Fort Kochi on the tourist map. Once this fishing accessory baited fishes now it baits tourists.The sight of the Chinese nets, suspended in midair and standing in line on the beaches when silhouetted against the sunset is stunning. It is one of the most photographed sights in Kochi. For the best view of the nets, head to the Vasco Da Gama Square. Each fishing net is operated by more than four fishermen and is made in such a way that the weight of a man walking on the main plank causes the equipment to be pulled down into the sea. Fishing is usually done in the morning and early evening. The net is submerged into the water for an interval and is then raised by pulling the ropes. The slow rhythm and balancing of the net are spellbound the first-time viewer. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica: The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica at Fort Kochi is one of the eight Basilicas in Kerala. This is the oldest church in India, built by the Portuguese in 1505. This church is one of the most elegant and most impressive churches in India and visited by tourists the year round. Even though it is a place of worship, it is a center of historical significance, endowed with the gothic style of artistic grandeur and colors. It was built by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558, was spared by the Dutch but was Later destroyed by the British. It is one of only eight basilicas in India. It has a Gothic frontage and soaring spires which makes it a very pretty building from the outside. The inside is ornate and enormous. Biblical scenes are painted on the panels in the ceiling which is very high. There are so many details and colors inside that some consider it gaudy while others find it beautiful. St Francis Church: The oldest European church in India, St. Francis CSI church was built in 1503. It has been the symbolic site for Europe's struggle over India spanning three centuries. Today it is under the aegis of the Church of South India. The Church is well-known for its beautiful architecture and ambiance. On the northern sidewall of the church lies the gravestones of Portuguese while those of the Dutch are on the southern sidewall. The Dutch cemetery is possibly one of the oldest cemeteries in India. The tombstone of Vasco Da Gama marked by an enclosure that lies to the southern side of the grounds.To visit the oldest European church of immense historical significance head over to St. Francis CSI Church. There are also several inscriptions on leaves, depicting the life and times of the Portuguese and the Dutch. The church has a high structure with a gabled timber-framed roof covered with tiles. A stepped pinnacle is built on both sides of the frontage, which is very impressive and retains an old architectural charm. **This is an indicative itinerary for textual reading - final package might vary based on the customer chosen locations and attractions.          

Singapore Package - 5D4N Singapore, an island city-state off southern Malaysia, is a global financial center with a tropical climate and multicultural population. Its colonial core centers on the Padang, a cricket field since the 1830s and now flanked by grand buildings such as City Hall, with its 18 Corinthian columns. In Singapore's circa-1820 Chinatown stands the red-and-gold Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, said to house one of Buddha's teeth.

God's Own Country Kerala Tour Package - 7D6N - Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha, Kovalam, Poovar, Thiruvananthapuram Kerala also known as the “God’s Own Country”, is an attractive state situated at the southern corner of India offers a vacation filled with tranquillity. One can explore the mystical land of Kerala and have a beautiful, renewing and a satisfying experience. Kerala Tour Package 7D6N Starting from 26,500.00 for two people.Destinations Include Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha, Kovalam, Poovar, Thiruvananthapuram.  Includes Transfer from Kochi to Kochi, 3 Star Accommodation, Breakfast, Sightseeing. Itinerary for God's Own Country Kerala Tour Package7D6N Day 1- Kochi to Munnar Tourist Spots/Places  in Munnar Cheeyappara Waterfalls Special Activities (Chargeable activity) Spice Garden Visit Kalaripayatt Day 2 – Munnar Sightseeing Tourist Spots/Places    Rose Gardens Munnar Matupetty Dam Sun Moon Valley Boating Centre Echo Point Kundala Dam lake Eravikulam National Park Kannan Devan Tea Museum Special Activities (Chargeable activity) Tea Garden Visit Sun Moon Valley Boating Day 3 – Munnar to Thekkady Tourist Spots/Places    Periyar National Park Special Activities (Chargeable activity) Boating in Periyar Tiger Reserve Elephant Safari Day 4 –Thekkady to Alappuzha Alappuzha houseboat at stay Day 5 – Alappuzha to Kovalam Tourist Spots/Places    Kovalam beach Day 6 – Kovalam sightseeing Tourist Spots/Places    Hawa beach Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Attukal Bhagvathy Temple Museums and Zoos Sri Chitra Art Gallery Day 7- Kovalam to Thiruvananthapuram Tourist Spots/Places    Shanghumugham Beach Locations/Destinations in God's Own Country Kerala Tour Package7D6N Kochi: The beautiful port city of Kochi was formerly called Cochin. It is an important seaport of India. Kochi is located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala.Kochi plays an important role not just in today’s economy of the state of Kerala but also in the economic history of Kerala. It is one of the finest natural harbors of the world. Kochi is the place where one can find a wonderful mix of history and natural beauty. Lush mangroves, coconut trees reflected in the translucent waters of backwaters, ancient churches, cathedrals, and for - tourists on sightseeing tours of Cochin would find all these and more. Flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the majestic looking Arabian Sea in the west, Kochi occupies a very strategic location and has been a significant trading zone and attractive tourist destination since time immemorial. Munnar :  Munnar is a beautiful hill station in the Western Ghats of the Idukki district of Kerala. With the high mountains, tree cover, hazy mist filled valleys & winding lakes it is blessed with, Munnar has a peaceful and lovely climate through the year. The extensive tea estates that line the mountain ranges around Munnar add a unique beauty and provide amazing views and memories which can be made in very few hill stations anywhere in the world. The hills around Munnar are also home to quite a few waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries adding to the delectable charm of Munnar. Munnar is also known for the wild orchids locally called Neelakurinchi that usually blooms once in 12 years.Munnar means "three rivers", coming from the fact that it lies at the confluence of three streams. The hills are dotted with little picture perfect towns. The tea estates in Munnar have a colonial past to them reflected in the many colonial bungalows that can be found among the tea estates. While holidaying in Munnar, one has many options for trekking and walks through the mountains taking in the fresh mountain air. All these factors make Munnar quite a hit among the tourists. Thekkady  : Thekkady, located in Idukki district of Kerala, is the location of the Periyar National Park, which is an important tourist attraction in the Kerala state of India.Thekkady is one of the wildlife tourism destinations of Kerala. Thick forests, semi-evergreen and savanna grasslands are the main features of Thekkady. Animals like tigers, gaur, lion-tailed macaques, elephants, sambar and Nilgiri langurs are found in Periyar National Park. At Thekkady, one can also find spices like cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and clove. Winters are by far the best time to visit Thekkady as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. The maximum temperature goes up to 15 degrees Celsius and this is a great time to go for wildlife safaris and admire the natural beauty of Thekkady. You can also enjoy the many festivals which take place during this time in Thekkady. The monsoons are another great time to visit Thekkady. The temperature drops slightly and the surroundings are draped in a cloak of rich greenery. It is a great time to enjoy the rain washed beauty of Thekkady. Do make sure you carry an umbrella or raincoat along as rain showers are frequent and heavy. Kovalam: Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favorite haunt of tourists, especially Europeans, since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centers.Accommodation facility for tourists at Kovalam ranges from five-star hotels to budget hotels and the choice of food is available at restaurants and cafeteria ranges from Continental varieties to South Indian tastes. Alappuzha:  Alappuzha also referred as Alleppey. It is a city in Alleppey District of Kerala State in India. The word Alappuzha means land which is between Sea and network of rivers. One of the most beautiful cities of Kerala, Alleppey is also known as “Venice of the East”. At Alappuzha, one will find beaches, backwaters, springs, canals.The most attractive and loved part of Alleppey is its backwaters and is the reason tourists visit Alleppey in big numbers. The backwaters join Kumarakom in the East, Cochin towards the North and Quilon to the South. The annual boat race at Alappuzha named Nehru Trophy Boat Race which happens on Punnamada Lake is well known around the world. The race takes place on the second Saturday of August every year.This race is very interesting and fun to watch and an opportunity to watch the great boat race stars as they more or less“fly” the boats. Owing to its proximity to the sea, the climate of Alappuzha is humid and hot during the summer, although it remains fairly cool and pleasant during the months of October to December. Tourist Spots  in God's Own Country Kerala Tour Package7D6N Cheeyappara waterfalls: Cheeyappara Waterfalls is a famous destination for tourists visiting Munnar. Munnar is known as Swiss of South India. It has a varying terrestrial terrain that consists of water cascades, rolling hills, verdant valleys, dense forests and tea, coffee and spice plantations. Cheeyappara Waterfalls is considered the best among all the waterfalls in the State of Kerala. The Waterfall cascades down in seven steps and also offers a great opportunity for trekking. The beauty of the waterfalls increases during the monsoon season that's in the months of June, July, and August.  It becomes literally impossible to reach the bottom of the falls during this time of the year. The water of Cheeyappara Waterfalls does not dry up even in summer months. Cheeyappara Waterfalls is in the vicinity of evergreen forests that span about 2 acres. Trekkers who want to go on a nature walk in the forest make Cheeyappara as their base camp. The rock, that spans more than 500 acres, is a favorite spot for mountaineers. Rose Gardens Munnar: Rosegarden is almost a century old building erected in the midst of cardamom plantations in two acres of land. It is nestled in a perfectly calm and cool environment, surrounded by hills and dales, rivers and waterfalls. It is wrapped with spices and agricultural crops like cardamom, vanilla and all varieties of fruit trees including Lichi, Rambutan, Strawberry and Amla and an equally large variety of flowering plants. Rose Garden is constructed with fine stones, tiled roof, and wooden ceiling. The twin cubicula rooms can accommodate two families. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with built-in traditional style verandahs that overlook the lush green forest. Each room is equipped with necessary facilities and during the stay; guests are served with mouth-watering home cooked food.  Cooking classes are provided for those who want to learn traditional Kerala food. The homestay is arranged by those who come to Munnar for trekking. As per the convenience of the visitors, the Home arranges for both short & long trekking trips of different durations.  Matupetty Dams:  About 13 km away from Munnar and at an elevation of 1700m resides the hill station, Mattupetty. Cradled amongst the plantation hills of Munnar, Mattupetty is a habitat for various birds and animals and also a popular tourist attraction. One main attraction in Mattupetty is the beautiful lake and the concrete Gravity dam built on the lake. The dam was constructed in the late 1940s for water conservation and power generation. It is 160 feet high. The reservoir it creates stretches out several kilometers. An enchanting aspect of the Mattupetty dam is its tranquil waters and a cruise here is an invigorating experience. The continuous availability of water allows the wild animals and birds to thrive in the regions around. A herd of elephants, gaurs and sambar deer can be spotted now and then around the lake and it is a sight to behold. Mattupetty is just the perfect getaway if you are looking to take a break from your hectic lifestyle. And yes, don't forget to take your camera along. Sun Moon Valley Boating Centre: The boating center is located at a distance of 13 Km away from Munnar. The most attractive feature is the serene beauty that can be experienced with the reflection of the tea garden around the water. Tourist can opt to go on a boat ride along the lake or even enjoy the calmness of the environment. The valley is nestled in the hills of Munnar. The valley has also been called to fame for its Indo Swiss Farm project that launched in the year 1963. The ideal time frame to pay a visit to the valley is between August and May.  Echo point: This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. One can clearly make sound and hear its echo in these acres of lush greenery. Echo Point is a pit stop for tourists en route to Top Station from Munnar. Echo point is one of the breathtaking spots on earth Top station is the highest point in Munnar and the rare Neelakurinji (Strobilanthus) blooms here. The moist, moldy acres of mountains spread out here are astonishingly beautiful. It calls for one to let their spirit out, quite literally. One can either choose a silent, thoughtful hike up the mountains or choose to scream and hear their voices echoed. Distant chirping and cooing of birds become clear here and one can completely bask in the glory of the mist-filled skies. Echo Point's scenic gorgeousness is because of the clustered tea plantations and spice and coffee gardens that resulted in its popularity amongst trekkers and nature strollers.In a completely tranquil and rejuvenating environment, strollers and trekkers can move along the smooth slopes and photograph moments of serenity and abundant natural beauty.  Kundala Dam lake:  Located at about 20 km from Munnar on the way to Top Station is a picturesque place called Kundala. It is at a height of 1700 meters above sea level. In Kundala, cherry blossoms appear twice in a year. Once in twelve years the hills and valleys around Kundala Lake get covered by the famous Neela Kurunji flowers. An artificial dam built around the lake claims to be Asia's first Arch Dam. The boating at this lake is a wonderful experience and is beyond words. The boating facilities available here are pedal boats, Kashmiri shikkara boats, and rowboats. They can be rented to make your trip more enjoyable. From its top, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the lush green surroundings. When the backdrop is a serene lake and an imposing dam, your pictures will never go unnoticed. The best time to capture some remarkable pictures is early mornings when the beautiful sun rays fall on the lake to create a glittering effect.  Eravikulam National Park: Spread over 97sq.km and one of most sought-after destination in Munnar is the Eravikulam national park. It is also known as Rajamalai National Park, the first of its kind in Kerala. This park is a sanctuary not only for the endangered mountain goat of South India, the Nilgiri Tahr, but also several other species of rare animals, bird, and butterflies. The varied fauna of the park also includes around 132 species of birds, guaranteeing that the park is teeming with life forms.The park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and also of the rolling hills caressed by blankets of mist. Anamudi, the highest peak (2695 m) in south India, stands elegantly in the core of the national park. Once in twelve years, the hill slopes get covered in a carpet of blue, resulting from the flowering of Neelakurinji.  The park offers an unforgettable experience. Do not visit the park during the early months of the year as the park remains closed for the calving of Nilgiri Tahr. Kannan Devan Tea museum: Kannan Devan Tea Museum is the first tea museum of its kind in the country. The museum displays the growth of the century-old tea plantations and industry. The tea museum preserves the aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's mountain region in the Idukki district. The plantation started out with a simple tea roller and has grown into a fully automated tea factory of Madupatty. It has become one of the major attractions in Munnar.A visit to the Tea Museum is an insightful experience. The museum exhibits the ancient bungalow furniture, magneto phone, cash safe, wooden bathtub, iron oven, etc. They will show you how tea making from green leaf to finish products. You can buy tea also from there. The museum explains about the history Tea Plantations in Munnar. Visiting this tea museum gives a good awareness of the past and present tea processing techniques. Periyar National Park: Periyar National Park, also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, located in the mountainous Western Ghats of Kerala. This wildlife sanctuary homes tigers and a significant elephant population, as well as rare lion-tailed macaques, sambar deer, leopards and Indian bison. In the northern part of the park is the Periyar Lake, popular for boat rides. Periyar National Park is a protected wildlife reserve and the Periyar river flows around the contours of the wooded hills as a permanent source of water for the animals. Even though the park is extremely wild it can still be enjoyed from a boat. The park will astound you with its 925 sq. km of hidden glades, wildflowers and sightings of elephants and tigers. Periyar River nourishes the pristine flora bustling with fluttering butterflies and birds. It is one of the most significant reserves in India. Periyar Tiger Reserve will provide an authentic forest experience. Kovalam Beach: Kovalam has three beaches separated by rocky terrains in its 17 km coastline, the three together form the famous crescent of the Kovalam beach. The three beaches are the Lighthouse, Hawah, and Samudra, in which Lighthouse is the largest. Lighthouse Beach got its name due to the old Lighthouse located on top of a hillock. Hawah beach is also called as Eve's beach, ranks second. Samudra ranks the third. Majority of the tourism and trade happen on the Lighthouse and Hawah beaches. Options for leisure in the beach are plenty and different. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programs and catamaran cruising are the few among activities happening here. Life here on beach begins on midday and carries on till night. The beach complex consists of an array of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centers. This beach is the best place to forget everything and enjoy life to its fullest. Hawa Beach:  Hawa Beach is more commonly known as Eve's Beach, is the most popular of the three beaches of Kovalam even though it ranks second in size. This beach lies opposite to Lighthouse Beach and is full of palm groves. Swimming is not advisable here at this beach as the currents are quite strong. The impressive view of the sunset at its height can be witnessed here. After the sun sets, the calm cove of waters in the beach provides a visual charm of moonlit nights. One can find mouth-watering cuisines here. There are small restaurants along the beach to quench the hunger with mouthwatering dishes. Sunbathing, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes, and catamaran cruising are the few among activities happening here. Honeymooners basically prefer this beaches and couples can walk with each other through long sandy shores.The beach is ideal for all sorts of travelers regardless of their age group and nationality. Those who are searching for a pure & peaceful stretch of beautiful shores, Hawa beach would be the perfect destination. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: The principal deity Vishnu is enshrined in this temple and is famous for being the wealthiest temple in the country. Temple is located in Thiruvananthapuram and is one of the most famous temples in India. The temple is built in an intricate fusion of the indigenous Kerala style and the Dravidian style of architecture. This beautiful structure is a reservoir of peace and spiritual enlightenment. It is a true architectural marvel.The temple has 9 entrances signifying 9 orifices of our body. The majestic black idol of Lord Vishnu is made of 12,008 Salagramas or sacred stones. The deity is enshrined in the "Anantha Shayanam" posture, the eternal yogic sleep on the serpent Adisheshan.Even though the principal deity is Lord Vishnu, idols of several other deities are also present. The temple celebrates a ritualistic festival called Laksha Deepam, once in 6 years, which involves lighting of one hundred thousand lamps. It is by far the wealthiest institution and place in the recorded history. Attukal Bhagvathy Temple: The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a Hindu religious shrine at Attukal in Trivandrum. The Goddess Kannaki aka Parvathi is the main deity in this temple. The temple is renowned for the annual Attukal Pongala festival, in which over millions of women participate.Kannaki is considered to be the supreme preserver and destroyer and cares for her devotees like a mother does for her children. For the devotees, Attukal Devi is the supreme power, capable of delivering all the wishes of her devotees.  A festival that has found its way into the Guinness Book of World Records for being the single largest gathering of women for a religious activity. Devotees from all parts of India come and bow before the all powerful goddess, seeking an end to their afflictions and to receive blessings.The temple is just 2 Km from the main city of Thiruvananthapuram and is housed at a rural-like area, even though the surroundings are highly urbanized. Sri Chitra Art Gallery: Sree Chitra Art Gallery is an art gallery in Thiruvananthapuram. It portrays the perfect example of the fusion of traditional and contemporary art. There are approximately 1100 paintings at the gallery.The art gallery portrays works from the Mughal, Rajput, Bengal, Rajasthani, and Tanjore schools of art. It also has a collection of oriental arts from prehistoric time. Raja Ravi Varma, Ravindranath Tagore, C. Raja Raja Varma are few of the prominent personalities whose art has been displayed here. The museum takes us on a journey through the history of the Indian culture. Indian mural paintings dated from prehistoric times down to the 18th Century is found in the collection in the Museum.The palace had handed about 70 Ravi Varma paintings but because of the space constraints few of them aren't displayed. The restoration of Ravi Varma paintings was undertaken in 2005 by the Kerala Government. Ravi Varma's masterpiece paintings Shakuntala and Damayanti Talking to a Swan are displayed at the gallery. Museums and Zoos: One of the first zoos in India, this Zoological Park in Thiruvananthapuram district, was established in early 1859 by the Maharaja of Travancore. It is the oldest zoo in India an Asia. Housed in a well-planned botanical garden with an area of 55 acres this a beauty to behold. Home to about 82 species from across the globe, the zoo includes native species like the lion-tailed macaque, Indian rhinoceros, Nilgiri langur, royal Bengal tiger, Asiatic lion, and leopard, along with nine Asian elephants. Some animals like giraffes, zebras, hippos, and Cape buffaloes are even brought down from Africa to this zoo. There is also a snake farm in the zoo showcasing both venomous and non-venomous snakes.The objectives of the zoo are as follows; Wildlife preservation with particular reference to the endemic and endangered species in the Western Ghats.  The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo (Trivandrum) is a perfect way to spend a couple of hours in the city, especially if you are traveling with kids. Shanghumugham Beach: Shankumugham Beach is a beach in Thiruvananthapuram district. The beach is a popular tourist attraction of Thiruvananthapuram, located at a distance of 8 km from the city. The vast stretch of white sand and the serene atmosphere is a treat for those who want to get out of their hectic life.The beach, known for its clear views of the setting sun, is a frequented spot for a picnic. The beach also has a famous for its huge Matsyakanyaka (mermaid) Sculpture, designed by Sri. Kanai Kunhiraman, built in concrete in the year 1990. There are two rock-made shelters which are more than 100 years old, one at the beach and the other near the park. There are lots of spaces and rock benches for relaxing.The Royal beach palace which the Travancore king used as a rest house is situated near the beach. This building is now renovated and is used by the Indian Coffeehouse.