North Kerala Off the Beaten Track

Embark on an exhilarating trek to the base of the magnificent Athirapally, where you will savour a picnic lunch as the roar of the waterfall and a gurgling stream keep you company. The afternoon is spent at leisure relaxing by the pool.

Drive through the emerald green slopes of the Western Ghats to Wayanad, where your delightful retreat is set amidst 400 acres of spice and coffee estate and is a perfect base to discover this scenic hill country and its many natural spectacles. This afternoon choose from one of the 13 guided walking trails and explore the working coffee plantation.

The morning is dedicated to exploring the Edakkal Caves. Nestled in the Western Ghats of India these captivating caves house prehistoric petroglyphs and pictorial inscriptions dating back thousands of years. As you ascend, the panoramic views of Wayanad’s lush landscapes unfold, adding a breathtaking backdrop to this archaeological marvel. Upon completion return to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Rise early and drive through lush green working tea estates to the village of Meppadi from where you will climb up to Chembra Peak, the highest mountain in the region (2,100m), and be rewarded with glorious views of the mist-covered peaks of the distant Nilgiri Hills. Return to your hotel in the evening. Note: This exhilarating trek requires a reasonable level of fitness and the ability to walk unaided on uneven terrain including rocky outcrops.

Embark on a scenic morning drive through the Western Ghats to reach your wildlife lodge near Nagarhole National Park. This picturesque reserve is a sanctuary for Asian elephants, wild dogs, gaurs, elusive Bengal Tigers, and over 300 bird species. Late this afternoon set off on a game drive (shared basis).

Enjoy an early morning boat safari (shared basis) on the Kabini River in search of marsh crocodiles, water birds and Asiatic elephants. This afternoon, return to Nagarhole National Park for an afternoon game drive (shared basis).

Return to Nagarhole National Park (shared jeep safari) one last time, then continue to Kannur on the northern Kerala Backwaters where you will board a comfortable converted traditional houseboat. This afternoon, cruise through the tranquil backwaters and visit unspoilt villages that are rarely visited by tourists.

Glide through the north Kerala backwaters this morning to the village of Payyannur, arriving in time to attend the daily ritual at the ancient Shiva temple. A short drive will bring you to Kasargod, a fishing village on the idyllic and still relatively unknown north Keralan coast. This afternoon, explore the surrounding villages and visit the imposing Bekal Fort, which has impressive bastions looking out over the Indian Ocean.

Today is at leisure to relax. Laze by the pool, unwind in the Spa or participate in a yoga session.

At leisure.

Transfer to the Calicut or Mangalore airport and check in for your onward flight.

Note: If departing from Calicut, your driver will stop at Kappad Beach en route to the airport so that you can visit the small stone memorial that commemorates Vasco da Gama’s 1498 landing in India.