Arrival at the Cochin airport and transfer to Munnar. This is a magnificent hill station in the Western Ghats at about 5000 feet above sea level. This is one of the best hill stations in Kerala and is the major centre of Kerala's tea industry. Munnar means three rivers and the town is located at the confluence of 3 mountain streams - Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. These 3 stream confluence at the heart of the town and meet all the water requirements of the settlers and visitors. Munnar has lakes, forests and several tea estates. Anaimudi, the highest peak in South India (2695 m/8883 ft.) is nearby. Munnar was the British Government's Summer Resort in the South and it has been the favorite summer resort of the European sellers for centuries.
Major sightseeing attractions are the Kundale tea plantation, Eravikulam National Park, The High Range Club, Top Station, Mattuppetty, Devikulam, Rajamalai, Chithirapuram, Marayoor, Pallivasal/Pothamedu, etc.
Day 03
Kumarakom, the queen of Vembanad, is a ‘resort’ destination Check in to Houseboat. This tiny village on the edge of Vembanad Lake was practically unknown till one Henry Baker purchased land from the erstwhile King of Travancore to build himself a grand home. Kumarakom, today is a maze of modern resorts and heritage-homes-cum-hotels spilling over the island’s bank. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit with its numerous beautiful rivulets and waterways. The scenic Vembanad Lake surrounded by mangrove forests and paddy fields is one of the best places for bird viewing inside the sanctuary. A large population of feathered species along with a pleasant climate make it a great picnic spot. As Kumarakom is a popular backwater destination in Kerala, a houseboat cruise is a must-do activity for visitors. A boat cruise on the beautiful Vembanad lake is one of the best ways to enjoy birdwatching in the park. One can also enjoy wildlife photography at Pathiramanal - a small island on the lake. A little ahead of Kumarakom, you can visit the backwater town of Kottayam – packed with rubber plantations and majestic old churches.
