Call
G'Day  
Check into your air-conditioned houseboat from Alleppey, India.
Sample popular cuisine throughout Kerala, India.
Take in idyllic landscapes throughout Munnar, India.
See traditional fishing nets used in Cochin, India.
See St. Francis Church in Cochin, India.
Admire the spectacular Santa Cruz Basilica in Cochin, India.
Immerse yourself in the lush tea plantations in Munnar, India.
Admire Attukad Waterfalls on an optional tour in Munnar, India (charges apply).
Stand in awe of Mattupetty Dam in Munnar, India.
Join an optional tour to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Tour in Kerala, India (charges apply).
Visit Periyar Lake with free time in Periyar, India.
Look for the Great Pied Hornbill around Periyar Lake in Periyar, India.
Chance upon elephants with time at leisure at Periyar Lake in Periyar, India.
See fragrant plantations of pepper in Kumily, India.
Enjoy a night on a traditional houseboat from Alleppey, India.
Indulge in authentic cuisine throughout Kerala, India.
Take in picturesque backwater landscapes from Kumarakom, India.
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9 Days

2 for 1 Tropical South India

Operated by TripADeal
Cochin, Munnar, Periyar, Alleppey & more
Explore tropical India on a small-group tour as you cruise on a houseboat, visit spice plantations & more
Dates: 6 May 2025 - 8 Dec 2026
Earn & Use Qantas Points
Return international full-service flights
6 nights of hotel accommodation
Overnight on a traditional houseboat
Daily breakfast & all houseboat meals
Overview
Map

Overview

Southern India will take your breath away with a vibrant mix of tropical landscapes and authentic culture. This area invites exploration and promises a feast for your senses, so grab your travel buddy and experience it over 9 incredible days.

Your adventure begins in Cochin, the oldest European settlement in India, with one of the finest natural harbours on the Arabian Sea. Immerse yourself in its cosmopolitan character by marvelling at the Dutch Palace, seeing Koonan Kurishu Shrine and more on a guided tour.
Enjoy a scenic drive to charming Munnar, where the cool climate and fragrant tea gardens await. Learn about the process of India's most beloved brew at a tea museum, then stand in awe before the tranquil Kundala Lake.

Head to the spice city of Periyar to wander around lush tea and coffee plantations, see fragrant plantations and stop by a farm to learn how locals cultivate their food. Make sure to visit Periyar Lake with time at leisure, chance upon wild elephants playing on the water’s edge which is a truly magical experience. You’ll then embark on an overnight houseboat from Alleppey through Kerala's famous backwaters. Enjoy basking on the sun deck, dining on Kerala-style food and experiencing the tranquil atmosphere. Disembark near the bird lovers' paradise of Kumarakom for free time where you could explore Vembanad Lake, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple or Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. You’ll then head back to Cochin to begin your journey home.

This unique small-group tour includes return international full-service flights, 6 nights of hotel accommodation, overnight on a houseboat, daily breakfast, English-speaking tour guides and more.

Want more? You can upgrade to Premium accommodation or add extra days to your itinerary with Arrive Early or Stay Behind options. 

Tour Inclusions

HIGHLIGHTS
  • Explore the historic city of Cochin including Fort Kochi, Dutch Palace and more
  • Cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat
  • Visit the picturesque Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point and Kundala Lake in Munnar
  • Discover the rich tea production history at Munnar's Tea Museum
  • Experience the beauty of Munnar's tea and coffee plantations
  • Stroll through the aromatic spice plantations in Thekkady
  • Relax by Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom, a must-see in Kerala
  • Discover peaceful Kerala while cruising through its backwater lagoons
  • Enjoy the scenic landscapes that make Kerala a paradise for nature lovers
FLIGHTS
  • Return international full-service flights (economy class), surcharges may apply
ACCOMMODATION
  • 6 nights of hotel accommodation
  • Standard or Premium options available
  • Overnight on a traditional houseboat
DINING
  • Daily breakfast and all meals on the houseboat
ESSENTIALS
  • English-speaking tour guides
  • Airline taxes and surcharges
TRANSPORT
  • Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles
TRANSFERS
  • Return airport transfers
UPGRADES AVAILABLE
  • Arrive Early: Arrive up to 60 days before your tour starts (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
  • Stay Behind: Return up to 60 days after your tour concludes (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
  • Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location (see checkout for details)
  • Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (see checkout for details)
  • Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class (see checkout for details)
  • Premium Accommodation: Upgrade your accommodation package (see checkout for details)
  • Preferred Airline: Fly with a preferred airline (see checkout for details)

Please note: Extra charges may apply, see the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details

Day 1 Australia (or New Zealand) - Cochin, India

Today you'll fly to Cochin, India. Upon arrival, you'll be met by a representative at the airport who will transfer you to your hotel where you may enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Cochin, also known as Kochi, is popularly referred to as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea” and is the oldest European settlement in India. Surrounded by backwaters, this city has always managed to attract voyagers to travel to the state of Kerala. Cochin is one of the finest natural harbours on the Arabian Sea coast, Kochi has been a port of call for foreign traders from early times.

One of the most interesting towns in South India, its cosmopolitan character is reflected in its low-rise picturesque buildings and structures. The city of Kochi perfectly reflects the eclecticism of Kerala and is a prime tourist destination and commercial hub.

Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur on Day 0. Affected customers must be at the airport the day before. Flight times will be indicated on your final documents at least 6 weeks prior to departure

Overnight: Cochin (Standard or Premium Option)

Meals included: In-Flight

Day 2 Cochin

After breakfast, you'll embark on a fascinating city tour of Cochin.

Visit the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese, where you’ll discover intricate murals that depict legendary scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as a collection of regal dresses and palanquins from Cochin’s royal past. Head to the historic Koonan Kurishu Shrine, a small chapel with deep cultural significance, followed by the Jewish Synagogue which is known for its copper plates inscribed in Hebrew. Continue to Fort Kochi to see St. Francis Church, the stunning Santa Cruz Basilica and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets near Cochin’s harbour.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, soaking in the charm of this heritage city. Alternatively, take part in one of our optional activities on offer for the day.

Optional Activity: Fort Kochi Heritage Walk
This walking tour offers a unique glimpse into the city’s cultural influences which have been shaped by Dutch, Portuguese, British and Jewish settlers over the centuries. Stroll through the charming old quarter of Fort Kochi where the winding streets are lined with historical buildings and picturesque homes. Visit the seaside promenade where you can observe daily life and take in the beautiful coastal views. This is the perfect way to experience the rich heritage that makes Cochin such a special destination. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Optional Activity: Fort Kochi, Broadway Bazaar & Mattancherry by Rickshaw
For a more immersive experience, take an exciting journey through Fort Kochi and Mattancherry with this rickshaw and walking tour. Starting in the quaint streets of Fort Kochi, you’ll explore vibrant markets, charming old houses and scenic beaches. Hop into a local rickshaw to Mattancherry, a once-thriving trading hub that’s now home to a mix of communities from around the world. If you love bustling bazaars and discovering local flavours, this tour will take you through Ernakulam’s famous Broadway Bazaar. As a traditional centre of business, Broadway came to life during British rule and today remains a lively marketplace, offering everything from local food to unique products. It’s an ideal option for those who want to dive deeper into the local culture and history.

Overnight: Cochin (Standard or Premium Option)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3 Cochin - Munnar

After breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a charming hill station nestled in the lush slopes of Kerala’s tea country. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take in the serene beauty of this royal retreat.

Munnar’s old-world charm, reminiscent of the British Raj, will transport you back in time with its elegant grandeur. The refreshing sunshine, cool climate and fragrant air from the surrounding tea gardens create the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. During the monsoon, Munnar takes on a whole new allure with misty hills and vibrant green landscapes that enchant visitors.

It's as if nature paints its masterpiece right before your eyes with shades of green and occasional rainbows gracing the horizon. The afternoon is yours to explore this picturesque hill resort at your own pace, or you can opt for an optional activity.

Optional Activity: Nature Walk & Attukad Waterfalls Trek
Experience the serene beauty of Munnar with a nature walk and trek through its lush tea plantations, leading to the majestic Attukad Waterfalls. As you make your way through the tea estates, you’ll have the chance to observe the local community at work, carefully tending to the tea gardens that make this region famous. As you approach the waterfalls, you’ll be treated to the sight of water cascading gracefully down the rocks. Though the falls are viewed from a distance, the stunning natural surroundings and fresh mountain air create a truly unforgettable experience. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Munnar (Standard or Premium Option)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4 Munnar - Periyar

After breakfast, start your day by visiting a Tea Museum where you'll discover the fascinating process behind India's most beloved brew. Gain insight into how tea is cultivated and processed, and appreciate the rich heritage of tea production in Munnar. Later, continue your exploration at the picturesque Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point and tranquil Kundala Lake before returning to your hotel.

In the afternoon, you'll depart for Periyar (Thekkady) which is located in the Idukki district and often referred to as the "Spice City of India". Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take in the natural beauty of this region, which is a perfect blend of human ingenuity and nature’s wonder.

You may like to visit Periyar Lake, nestled in the heart of the wildlife sanctuary. It offers nature lovers a chance to witness wildlife in their natural habitat, birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species that inhabit the area. The highlight for many is the sight of wild elephant herds coming down to the lake to play, a truly magical experience.

Overnight: Periyar (Standard or Premium Option)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5 Periyar

After breakfast, you'll set off on a fascinating visit to the Spice Garden in Kumily where you'll explore the lush tea and coffee plantations of Thekkady. Kumily offers a sensory adventure through the fragrant plantations of cinnamon, pepper, clove, cardamom, vanilla, cocoa and more. Strolling through these aromatic fields, you'll discover the fascinating cultivation processes while being surrounded by the intoxicating scents of spices. The sight of vibrant red coffee fruits nestled among lush green leaves is a delight to behold, making this a truly memorable experience.

You'll then head to a local vegetable farm for a pleasant and insightful experience to learn about various farming methods as you explore fields of fresh produce and grapevines. This offers a peaceful retreat and provides a chance to engage with local farmers while gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s agricultural practices and culture.

In the afternoon, take time to relax and enjoy Thekkady at your own pace, or choose from our optional activities to make the most of your time in this spice-filled paradise.

Optional Activity: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Tour
Discover the wonders of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Kerala's most treasured natural reserves that spans 777 square kilometres with thick evergreen forest. The scenic Periyar Lake, formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam, is home to a rich array of wildlife. Keep an eye out for majestic Asian elephants, elusive tigers, gaurs, sambars, lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs and more. You may also spot wild boars, barking deer, stripe-necked mongooses, sloth bears and the Malabar giant squirrel. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Optional Activity: Tribal Heritage Programme
Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Thekkady’s indigenous communities with the Tribal Heritage Programme. This unique experience showcases traditional dance performances by members of the Mannan and Paliyan tribes, 2 of the 6 major tribes in the region. Through captivating music and rhythmic movements, the tribal dance narrates the story of their ancestors and the deep connection they have with the forest. You’ll also be introduced to the unique musical instruments and traditional costumes used by the tribes, offering a glimpse into their age-old traditions and lifestyle. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Periyar (Standard or Premium Option)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6 Periyar - Alleppey

After breakfast, you'll depart for Alleppey where you'll check in to your air-conditioned houseboat and embark on a serene cruise through Kerala's famous backwaters. As you glide along tranquil canals and waterways you'll enjoy a delicious lunch of authentic Kerala cuisine onboard. This is your chance to bask in the sunshine on the deck and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

Alleppey is a district renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty with the Arabian Sea to the west and a network of rivers crisscrossing the region. The area is also home to a rich variety of animal and bird life. As you sail through the backwaters, you’ll also discover the unique region of Kuttanad, known for its lush paddy fields. Alleppey is famous not only for its houseboat cruises but also for its thrilling boat races, scenic beaches and traditional coir industry.

Tonight, dinner will be served for you on the houseboat. Enjoy!

Overnight: AC Houseboat

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Day 7 Alleppey - Kumarakom

Begin your day with a peaceful breakfast on board your houseboat as you continue cruising through the serene backwaters of Kerala. After your relaxing journey, disembark and depart for the enchanting town of Kumarakom.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take in the tranquil surroundings as you settle into this picturesque destination. Kumarakom, situated on the shores of the captivating Vembanad Lake, offers a serene retreat where the natural beauty of Kerala truly shines. The glistening waters and calm lagoons create an otherworldly experience, especially as you drift along the backwaters, lined with lush greenery and swaying palms.

Discover a hidden side of Kerala where rural life remains untouched by time and is best explored by water. In the afternoon, you have the option to enjoy your day at leisure or choose from an optional activity.

Optional Activity: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
This is a haven for bird enthusiasts, located along the serene shores of Vembanad Lake and spanning 14 acres. The sanctuary is renowned for attracting a variety of migratory birds including the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. It’s an ornithologist’s paradise where the vibrant colours of these birds and their melodic calls fill the air, offering a delightful and tranquil experience for visitors. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Kumarakom (Standard or Premium Option)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8 Kumarakom - Cochin, India - Australia (or New Zealand)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport in Cochin to board your flight back home.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Day 9 Arrive Australia (or New Zealand)

Please note: Some flights may arrive +1 day later.

Meals included: None

Important Info

Booking information

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

Our policies

Cancellation and Refund Policy
By placing a booking with us, you acknowledge the following important information:
we act as your booking agent: TripADeal is a booking services provider, and curates the Travel Offers available on our website. We act as your booking agent, and we receive payment for the Booking Services as part of the booking price, however, we do not provide any of the Travel Services (flights, accommodation, tours or other products or services) included in your booking – the Travel Services are provided by a number of third party Travel Suppliers.
each booking is unique: our Travel Offers are made up of a variety of different components and are, during the booking process, uniquely tailored to suit your requirements, for example, departure dates and ports, flight and room upgrades, tour inclusions, etc.
changes/modifications to your booking may not be possible: once your booking has been made, changes or modifications may not be possible, and where possible, may incur a fee. It is important to ensure that the information you provide during the booking process is accurate and up to date, and that you read the Travel Offer carefully before placing your order.
Travel Offers are a package: our Travel Offers have been curated into package offerings and must be used as a package – individual components cannot be used independently of the full package offering.
our Travel Offers are generally non-refundable: in order to provide great value Travel Offers, we work with a variety of Travel Suppliers to find the best deals – this often means the Travel Suppliers’ offerings are non-refundable to ensure the best price. We recommend that you obtain travel insurance as soon as you make a booking with us.

To read more about our Cancellation and Refund Policy, please click here.

General Terms & Conditions
By placing your booking with us, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy and Cancellation Policy.

Offer essentials

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 8th December 2026.

Minimum group size 4, maximum group size 20 per vehicle.

This travel offer is priced for 2 people. 

Departure Dates      
2025
May: 6*, 20
June: 3, 17
July: 1^, 15*, 29*
August: 12, 26
September: 9, 23^
October: 7*, 21
November: 4, 18*
December: 2^

2026
January: 3^^, 20^
February: 3, 17
March: 3, 17, 31^
April: 14, 28
May: 12, 26
June: 9, 23
July: 7, 21
August: 4, 18
September: 1, 15*, 29^
October: 13*, 27
November: 10, 24^
December: 8^^

Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.

Surcharges
Please note: 
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $250 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $450 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^^ incur a high season surcharge of $700 per person.

Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a full-priced voucher must be purchased.

Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour package may be in a single room, depending on availability.

Child Policy
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for children 8 years old and over.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

Flights

Departure Cities         
Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, Perth and *Auckland

Departure City Surcharges
• Brisbane: $200 per person
• Adelaide: $450 per person
• Auckland: $750 per person

International Flight(s)
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 

Preferred Airline Surcharge
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Singapore Airlines: $300 per person 
Please note: 
• Preferred airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Preferred airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners. 

Arrive Early & Stay Behind Options
Arrive Early
Cochin - From $300 per person, subject to availability.

Stay Behind
Cochin - From $300 per person, subject to availability.

Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• If you select to Arrive Early or Stay Behind in a city other than the one where the tour starts or ends, the package will include an internal flight to your destination. If you wish to forfeit this flight, please advise our friendly team at the time of purchase. Please note that the cost does not change when you choose to forfeit your connecting flight.
• Flight booking changes or cancellations after air tickets have been issued are not guaranteed and may incur additional fees and fare difference, subject to the airline cancellation and change policies.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high-season Arrive Early or Stay Behind can be purchased for an additional charge, subject to availability. For pricing, please refer to the cart.
• An Arrive Early or Stay Behind can only be booked up to 60 days prior to your package’s start date, or after your package's end date. Should you wish to arrive earlier or stay behind for more than 60 days, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
6 December 2024 - 31 January 2025
28 March 2025 - 27 April 2025
16 June 2025 - 20 July 2025
15 September 2025 - 12 October 2025
1 December 2025 - 31 January 2026
3 April 2026 - 20 April 2026
26 June 2026 - 17 July 2026
18 September 2026 - 9 October 2026
12 December 2026 - 26 January 2027

Stopover Packages 
Singapore
Includes:
• 2, 3 or 5 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers 
For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note: 
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
2nd - 8th October 2025
2nd December 2025 - 2nd January 2026
1st - 9th October 2026
18th December 2026 - 3rd January 2027
 
Flight Class Upgrades
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed

Missed Flights 
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements. 

Accommodation

Accommodation Used
Standard Properties 3 & 4-Star (Self-Rated)
• Cochin: Gokulam Park or similar
• Munnar: Abad Copper Castle or similar
• Periyar: Hotel PepperVine or similar
• Alleppey: AC Premium Houseboat or similar
• Kumarakom: Deshadan backwater resort or similar

Premium Properties 4 & 5-Star (Self-Rated)
• Cochin: Radisson Blu or similar
• Munnar: Fort Munnar or similar
• Periyar: The Elephant Court or similar
• Alleppey: AC Premium Houseboat or similar
• Kumarakom: Abad Whispering Palms or similar

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.
 
Extra Nights
Not available. 
Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour. 
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Triple Share
Not available. 

Bedding Configuration
Twin or double (subject to availability).

Optional tours/activities

• Day 2: Heritage Walk through Fort Kochi - $30 AUD per person
• Day 2: Fort Kochi, Broadway Bazaar & Mattancherry by Rickshaw - $42 AUD per person.
• Day 3: Nature Walk to Attukad Waterfalls - $42 AUD per person
• Day 5: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Tour - $50 AUD per person
• Day 5: Tribal Heritage Programme - $55 AUD per person
• Day 7: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary - $35 AUD per person

Please note: The optional tours listed above must be purchased on checkout or over the phone before submitting your passenger information form (subject to availability). 

Exclusions

• Visa fees and requirements 
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Optional gratuities/tipping 
• Optional activities/tours 
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Any costs associated with an interruption to your tour as a result of an airline schedule change or cancellation

Gratuities/tipping

Land
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is 300 Rupee per person per day (approx $5 AUD). This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour. 

Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

Other important information

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Kerala enjoys a tropical climate, offering warm and pleasant weather throughout the year. The region experiences three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. During the summer months (March to May), temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C, with higher humidity. The monsoon season (June to September) brings on and off rains, cooling the region but making the landscape lush and vibrant. Winter (October to February) is the best time to visit, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for exploring Kerala's backwaters, wildlife, and hill stations like Munnar and Thekkady.

FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

COACH TOUR
Meals
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. 
Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

Fitness Level Required
A relaxed level of fitness will be required. Relaxed is described as: Expect a comfortable pace of touring with a focus on leisure time and gentle activity. This may include city tours, the ability to walk up and down small flights of stairs and gentle slopes. You will be responsible for your own luggage and have the ability to board all modes of transport without assistance. Please note: Some areas may be inaccessible to wheelchairs or mobility scooters, with personal walking sticks and other aids required should they be needed. Although some assistance may be available, every traveller should be self-reliant during all aspects of their travel.

Please note:
• It is expected that every traveller must be self-reliant and able to undertake all aspects of their own travel. Please speak to your booking agent about your personal circumstances and any assistance requirements to ensure this tour is right for you.
• If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

Sightseeing
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

Visas

India
A tourist visa for India is a strict requirement if travelling on an Australian or New Zealand passport. You will be able to start your visa application process once you receive your final travel documentation approximately 6 weeks prior to departure.
Important: 
• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.
• Visa rules are subject to change. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination/s you are visiting once you receive your travel documentation to ensure you have the most up to date information.
• It is your responsibility to be travel-ready and ensure that you are aware and comply with any destination or travel requirements, including the validity of all required travel documents.
• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Travel insurance 

Embarking on your next trip is exciting, and while you hope the unexpected does not happen, it is best to be prepared. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance when making your booking. Whether it’s a potential medical emergency, a flight cancellation, a delayed suitcase, or an unforeseen event, it's important to ensure you're adequately protected. For more information or advice visit https://www.tripadeal.com.au/travel-insurance

Schedule of fees

Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.

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