Relax in Kerala

DAY 1 Cochin
Your tour commences with an arrival transfer to your hotel. The remainder of your day is at leisure to begin your exploration of Cochin, the capital of Kerala and gateway to an extensive network of canals known as the Kerala backwaters.

Stay at: Holiday Inn (4 star) or Crowne Plaza (5 star)

DAY 2 Cochin
After breakfast your guided tour starts with a visit to see the iconic Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India and Mattancherry Palace, part of Fort Cochin, to explore the old Jewish quarter, synagogue, and Dutch Palace. Early this afternoon, visit a local family for an interactive cooking session where you can try your hand at cooking Indian dishes and learn some traditional methods of cooking and an opportunity to hear about the traditions and culture through the eyes of this local family. Evening is at leisure to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Note: Dutch Palace closed on Friday and Jewish Synagogue closed Friday and Saturday.

Stay at: Holiday Inn (4 star) or Crowne Plaza (5 star)
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

DAY 3 Cochin – Munnar
Travel inland to Munnar, located in South India’s largest tea-growing region and the picturesque Western Ghats. At 1525m above sea level, there’s likely to be a dramatic drop in temperature here, which along with the scenic surrounds of this Hill Station made it the perfect summer resort for the British Raj elite who wish to escape the heat of the cities. Today this Hill Station is best known for growing Assam tea and breathtaking views.

Stay at: Amberdale Hotel and Spa (4 star) or Fragrant Nature Hotel & Spa (5 star)
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 4 Munnar
Today is for exploring Eravikulam National Park, an ideal place to spot the Nilgiri Thars, the endangered species of wild goat. Also witness the beautiful Lakkam Waterfalls, Echo Point, Shooting Point and Mattupetty Dam where you’ll find a man-made lake and spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Afterwards, visit a local tea museum.

Stay at: Amberdale Hotel and Spa (4 star) or Fragrant Nature Hotel & Spa (5 star)
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 5 Munnar – Alleppey
Return to the coast and the city of Alleppey, a picturesque city known for its intricate network of canals, backwaters, beaches, and lagoons. It is here you will board your very own private Kettuvalam or Houseboat (Riceboats) for an immersive experience of Kerala's enchanting palm-fringed backwaters.

In the early days the riceboats were used to transport goods, people and their produce along the backwaters which stretch over 1500 kms, with a network of 44 rivers, lagoons and lakes from north to south. This vital waterway was often the only link between isolated villages and crowded towns. Today, the converted riceboats are a fabulous way to experience authentic India as you sail under palm trees and between rice fields while you see local residents going about their daily lives.

Stay at: Private Deluxe Houseboat
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 6 Alleppey – Kovalam
Disembark after breakfast and drive to Kovalam, once a quiet coastal village known for its export of fresh fish and coconuts, but is now one of India’s more popular beach resorts. Evening is at leisure to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Stay at Turtle on the Beach (4 star) or The Leela Kovalam (5 star)
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 7 Kovalam
With a full day at leisure you have the opportunity to experience a traditional Ayurveda treatment, take in a yoga class or indulge in the local cuisine known for its use of coconuts, curry leaves and fresh seafood.

Stay at Turtle on the Beach (4 star) or The Leela Kovalam (5 star)
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 8 Kovalam – Thiruvanthapuram
Your tour concludes with a departure transfer to Thiruvanthapuram Airport for your onward journey.

Meals included: Breakfast