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Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)
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Sultan Bathery
Pondicherry (Puducherry)
French colonial architecture has a strong presence in Pondicherry (Puducherry), in South India, creating a unique mix of French and Indian influence on the city's sites and even language, though the exotic and unpredictable flair of India is very much present. Known for its cuisine, fine hotels and nearby yoga/meditation ashrams, Pondicherry draws visitors of many backgrounds. Stroll along the coast at the city's popular four beaches, one of which features a promenade, or indulge in ayurvedic massage treatments at the Prana Ayurvedic Massage center. Visit the Thirukaameeswarar Temple is in nearby Villianur, dedicated to the Hindu deities Shiva and Kokilambigai; it is rumored the temple may be over 1,000 years old.
Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)
Mahabalipuram, an ancient seaport of India's medieval Pallava dynasty (circa 300-900), lies south of Chennai. The Pallavas left behind an astonishing heritage of Dravidian architecture in the form of huge monuments carved out of solid rock.
The Shore Temple close to the beach is remarkable: a twin-towered structure within a courtyard that's surrounded by a wall topped with rows of sitting bulls.
Equally impressive is Arjuna's Penance and the Descent of the Ganges, a huge bas-relief carved from one enormous monolithic rock between 670 and 715.
Kerala
With the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 m in the east and networked by forty four rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate. A long shoreline with serene beaches. Tranquil streches of emerald backwaters. Lush hill stations and exotic wildlife. Waterfalls. Sprawling plantations and paddy fields. Ayurvedic health holidays. Enchanting art forms. Magical festivals. Historic and cultural monuments. An exotic cuisine... All of which offer you a unique experience. And what's more, every one of these charming destinations is only a two hour drive from the other. A singular advantage no other destination offers.
Excursions
HALF DAY MUSUEMS OF KERALA
Departing the pier by motor coach, drive through to the commercial capital of the Kerala state, Ernakulam and along Mahatma Gandhi Road, which is the main thoroughfare with colorful markets, shops and temples.
Indo Portuguse museum currently houses some outstanding collections and is well known for its artistic and architectural marvels, which bear the mark of strong Portuguese influence. Some of these include a piece of the altar made in teak wood
Portugal with six ships bearing five friars and a group of settlers, Alfonzo de Albuquerque founded the town. He also built the first European church in India. Fort Cochin is renowned for its fishing nets, Parade Ground, David Hall and St. Francis Church. Stop here to take photographs and see their catch of the day.
Your nest stop will be at the Folklore Museum. Today have the pleasure of exploring this museum with the local guide. Kerala Folklore museum, the only museum in Kerala with essence of the life and culture of common man. There are around 4000 artifacts from tiny to large size on display in this museum. To name a few are wood and bronze sculptures, ancient terracotta, stone age objects, jeweler, paintings, oil lamps, musical instruments tribal and folk art and much more.
Return to pier.
TIMING |
ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST |
DISTANCE & TERRAIN |
W/C FRIENDLY |
00h00 – 00h30 |
Pier to Fort Cochin |
|
This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues |
00h30 – 01h00 |
Visit Portuguese Museum |
50 meters / Uneven/ 2 steps |
01h00 – 02h00 |
Walk through Fort Cochin, Parade Ground, David Hall, St. Francis Church & Chinese fishing nets |
500 meters / Flat / no steps |
02h00 – 02h30 |
Depart from Fort Cochin to Folklore Museum |
|
02h30 – 03h30 |
Visit Folklore Museum |
200 meters / Flat / 5 steps |
03h30 – 04h00 |
Return to pier |
|
Thekkady
Madurai
A great capital that once traded with the Roman Empire, Madurai sits at the banks of the river Vaigai. It is known as one of the oldest cities in the world that is locally inhabited. Madurai is famous of its temples built by the Pandyan and Madurai Nayak kings like the Shree Meenakshi Sudreshwara Temple, the Thirumalai Nayak Palace and the Ghandi Memorial Museum.
Mysore
Mysore a city of palaces in the region of Karnataka, is the second most popular travel destination of southern India. Legend deems the name Mysore comes from the demon king Mahishuru who was defeated by the goddess Chamundeshwari. Another name given to the area is Mysuru, once a capital city of the Kingdom of Mysore for nearly 6 centuries from 1399 – 1947 and ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty. Its rich heritage is prominent in art and culture only which the wealthy, the Wodeyars, were able to retrieve. Popular tourist attractions include: the 11th century Chamundeshwari Temple that sits on top of Chamundi Hills, the Mysore Palace a magnificent 3-storied Indo-Saracenic stoned palace that blends Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture, and the symmetric Brindavana Gardens built across the river Kaveri in 1924 with dancing fountains brought to life after sunset.
Kochi (Cochin)
Kochi (Cochin) is the great, old Keralan spice city. It consists of mainland Ernakulam, islands of Willingdon, Bolgatty and Gundu in the harbor, Fort Cochin and Mattancheri on the southern peninsula and Vypeen Island north of Cochin. Because of the area’s dense tropical forests, extensive ridges and ravines, it has been sheltered from invaders and the rest of India. This encouraged Keralites to welcome maritime contact, and therefore influence from the outside world. In Cochin there is still a small community of descendants from Jewish settlers who fled Palestine 2,000 years ago. When the Portuguese arrived here some 500 years ago, they were surprised to find Christianity already established along this coast. People from far-off lands have been coming to Kerala since ancient times in search of spices, sandalwood and ivory. Such long contact with people from overseas has resulted in the blending of various cultures and has given Keralites a cosmopolitan outlook.
Excursions
Cochin: Highlights - 7.5 hours
9AM- 10:30AM
Disembark the ship drive for 45 minutes to Tripunithura and visit the Hill Palace which was the official residence of the Cochin Royal family built in 1865. The palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style of Kerala and in surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with a deer park. A fully fledged ethno-archaeological museum and Kerala's first ever heritage Museum are the main attractions. Displayed inside are 19th century paintings, murals sculptures in stone and plaster of Paris, manuscripts, inscriptions and coins belonging to the royal family.
Cooking demonstration and lunch can be arranged at a local home ( on direct payment basis)
2PM- 4PM
In the afternoon, before returning to the ship which is towards the Silk Route trading post of Fort Cochin, these days a `Heritage Zone’. Beginning with the Chinese and Arabs in the 13th century, the Portuguese arrived in 1500 A.D. followed by the domination of the Dutch and British. See St. Francis Church originally built in 1510 and the first to reflect European influenced tradition. Portuguese hero Vasco Da Gama died on the site and was buried in the cemetery.
At Matancherry, there’s the Dutch Palace built in 1557 by the Portuguese as a gift for the Maharaja of Cochin in exchange for trading rights. The Palace houses royal costumes, palanquins, furniture and weapons but its striking feature is a series of murals painted on wooden walls. Later, stop by the Pardesi synagogue, at the heart of what is locally called Jew town. (Closed for a visit on Fridays and Saturday)
4PM - 4:30PM Thereafter return to the pier.
Added Value:
- Great introduction to Cochin city.
- The Tour covers the main highlights of the city i.e Depart the Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry, the Dutch Palace and later Jew Street (or Spice Street) in Jew Town.
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- Tour Duration: 7 hours
- Tour can operate : Morning
- Physical activity level : Moderate
- Wheelchair Accessible : No
Closing dates : Fridays - Dutch Palace in Mattancherry and Fridays & Saturdays – Jewish Synagogue.
Inclusions:
- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle
- Services of a local English speaking guide.
- All the entrance fees and camera fees.
- Credit card and bank charges.
- All the prevailing taxes.
French colonial architecture has a strong presence in Pondicherry (Puducherry), in South India, creating a unique mix of French and Indian influence on the city's sites and even language, though the exotic and unpredictable flair of India is very much present. Known for its cuisine, fine hotels and nearby yoga/meditation ashrams, Pondicherry draws visitors of many backgrounds. Stroll along the coast at the city's popular four beaches, one of which features a promenade, or indulge in ayurvedic massage treatments at the Prana Ayurvedic Massage center. Visit the Thirukaameeswarar Temple is in nearby Villianur, dedicated to the Hindu deities Shiva and Kokilambigai; it is rumored the temple may be over 1,000 years old.
Mahabalipuram, an ancient seaport of India's medieval Pallava dynasty (circa 300-900), lies south of Chennai. The Pallavas left behind an astonishing heritage of Dravidian architecture in the form of huge monuments carved out of solid rock.
The Shore Temple close to the beach is remarkable: a twin-towered structure within a courtyard that's surrounded by a wall topped with rows of sitting bulls.
Equally impressive is Arjuna's Penance and the Descent of the Ganges, a huge bas-relief carved from one enormous monolithic rock between 670 and 715.
With the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 m in the east and networked by forty four rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate. A long shoreline with serene beaches. Tranquil streches of emerald backwaters. Lush hill stations and exotic wildlife. Waterfalls. Sprawling plantations and paddy fields. Ayurvedic health holidays. Enchanting art forms. Magical festivals. Historic and cultural monuments. An exotic cuisine... All of which offer you a unique experience. And what's more, every one of these charming destinations is only a two hour drive from the other. A singular advantage no other destination offers.
Excursions
HALF DAY MUSUEMS OF KERALA
Departing the pier by motor coach, drive through to the commercial capital of the Kerala state, Ernakulam and along Mahatma Gandhi Road, which is the main thoroughfare with colorful markets, shops and temples.
Indo Portuguse museum currently houses some outstanding collections and is well known for its artistic and architectural marvels, which bear the mark of strong Portuguese influence. Some of these include a piece of the altar made in teak wood
Portugal with six ships bearing five friars and a group of settlers, Alfonzo de Albuquerque founded the town. He also built the first European church in India. Fort Cochin is renowned for its fishing nets, Parade Ground, David Hall and St. Francis Church. Stop here to take photographs and see their catch of the day.
Your nest stop will be at the Folklore Museum. Today have the pleasure of exploring this museum with the local guide. Kerala Folklore museum, the only museum in Kerala with essence of the life and culture of common man. There are around 4000 artifacts from tiny to large size on display in this museum. To name a few are wood and bronze sculptures, ancient terracotta, stone age objects, jeweler, paintings, oil lamps, musical instruments tribal and folk art and much more.
Return to pier.
TIMING |
ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST |
DISTANCE & TERRAIN |
W/C FRIENDLY |
00h00 – 00h30 |
Pier to Fort Cochin |
|
This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues |
00h30 – 01h00 |
Visit Portuguese Museum |
50 meters / Uneven/ 2 steps |
01h00 – 02h00 |
Walk through Fort Cochin, Parade Ground, David Hall, St. Francis Church & Chinese fishing nets |
500 meters / Flat / no steps |
02h00 – 02h30 |
Depart from Fort Cochin to Folklore Museum |
|
02h30 – 03h30 |
Visit Folklore Museum |
200 meters / Flat / 5 steps |
03h30 – 04h00 |
Return to pier |
|
A great capital that once traded with the Roman Empire, Madurai sits at the banks of the river Vaigai. It is known as one of the oldest cities in the world that is locally inhabited. Madurai is famous of its temples built by the Pandyan and Madurai Nayak kings like the Shree Meenakshi Sudreshwara Temple, the Thirumalai Nayak Palace and the Ghandi Memorial Museum.
Mysore a city of palaces in the region of Karnataka, is the second most popular travel destination of southern India. Legend deems the name Mysore comes from the demon king Mahishuru who was defeated by the goddess Chamundeshwari. Another name given to the area is Mysuru, once a capital city of the Kingdom of Mysore for nearly 6 centuries from 1399 – 1947 and ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty. Its rich heritage is prominent in art and culture only which the wealthy, the Wodeyars, were able to retrieve. Popular tourist attractions include: the 11th century Chamundeshwari Temple that sits on top of Chamundi Hills, the Mysore Palace a magnificent 3-storied Indo-Saracenic stoned palace that blends Hindu, Muslim, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture, and the symmetric Brindavana Gardens built across the river Kaveri in 1924 with dancing fountains brought to life after sunset.
Kochi (Cochin) is the great, old Keralan spice city. It consists of mainland Ernakulam, islands of Willingdon, Bolgatty and Gundu in the harbor, Fort Cochin and Mattancheri on the southern peninsula and Vypeen Island north of Cochin. Because of the area’s dense tropical forests, extensive ridges and ravines, it has been sheltered from invaders and the rest of India. This encouraged Keralites to welcome maritime contact, and therefore influence from the outside world. In Cochin there is still a small community of descendants from Jewish settlers who fled Palestine 2,000 years ago. When the Portuguese arrived here some 500 years ago, they were surprised to find Christianity already established along this coast. People from far-off lands have been coming to Kerala since ancient times in search of spices, sandalwood and ivory. Such long contact with people from overseas has resulted in the blending of various cultures and has given Keralites a cosmopolitan outlook.
Excursions
Cochin: Highlights - 7.5 hours
9AM- 10:30AM
Disembark the ship drive for 45 minutes to Tripunithura and visit the Hill Palace which was the official residence of the Cochin Royal family built in 1865. The palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style of Kerala and in surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with a deer park. A fully fledged ethno-archaeological museum and Kerala's first ever heritage Museum are the main attractions. Displayed inside are 19th century paintings, murals sculptures in stone and plaster of Paris, manuscripts, inscriptions and coins belonging to the royal family.
Cooking demonstration and lunch can be arranged at a local home ( on direct payment basis)
2PM- 4PM
In the afternoon, before returning to the ship which is towards the Silk Route trading post of Fort Cochin, these days a `Heritage Zone’. Beginning with the Chinese and Arabs in the 13th century, the Portuguese arrived in 1500 A.D. followed by the domination of the Dutch and British. See St. Francis Church originally built in 1510 and the first to reflect European influenced tradition. Portuguese hero Vasco Da Gama died on the site and was buried in the cemetery.
At Matancherry, there’s the Dutch Palace built in 1557 by the Portuguese as a gift for the Maharaja of Cochin in exchange for trading rights. The Palace houses royal costumes, palanquins, furniture and weapons but its striking feature is a series of murals painted on wooden walls. Later, stop by the Pardesi synagogue, at the heart of what is locally called Jew town. (Closed for a visit on Fridays and Saturday)
4PM - 4:30PM Thereafter return to the pier.
Added Value:
- Great introduction to Cochin city.
- The Tour covers the main highlights of the city i.e Depart the Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry, the Dutch Palace and later Jew Street (or Spice Street) in Jew Town.
-
- Tour Duration: 7 hours
- Tour can operate : Morning
- Physical activity level : Moderate
- Wheelchair Accessible : No
Closing dates : Fridays - Dutch Palace in Mattancherry and Fridays & Saturdays – Jewish Synagogue.
Inclusions:
- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle
- Services of a local English speaking guide.
- All the entrance fees and camera fees.
- Credit card and bank charges.
- All the prevailing taxes.