Kerala & Southern India

Day 1-2

Explore Kochi

Start your day with a half-day sightseeing tour of Kochi. Explore the fascinating Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace, which showcases astonishing murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranic legends. Visit the Jewish synagogue, a magnificent place of worship adorned with Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. Built in 1568, it is one of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations.

Next, head to Kochi harbour terminus, where you can witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action. These unique fishing nets create a picturesque sight against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea. Conclude your tour at St Francis Church, the oldest European-built church in India. It is here that the legendary explorer Vasco da Gama was originally buried.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Kerala with a Kathakali Dance show. Kathakali is a traditional dance form that brings to life Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The dancers, adorned in colourful and elaborate costumes, use facial expressions and articulate body movements to narrate captivating stories.

Day 3-4

Journey to the Mountains

Embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and take in the refreshing mountain air. Munnar’s breathtaking landscapes and pleasant climate make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Keep well rested and embark on an excursion to Kolukkumalai, the highest tea estate in the world. Marvel at the panoramic views of rolling hills covered in lush tea plantations as far as the eye can see. Learn about the tea-making process and indulge in a refreshing cup of freshly brewed tea.

Day 5-8

Maraikulam Beach Escape

Kick back and relax for 3 nights at the picturesque Marari Beach. Try an Ayurvedic massage, or hire a bicycle to explore the surrounding quiet lanes. Those who visit Marari look forward to the slow pace of life and soaking up the serenity. Here lies a deep sense of peace, away from the cacophony of the cities. Time ceases to have meaning as you learn to reconnect with the simple pleasures of life—the sight of local fishermen hauling in their catch or strolling barefoot in the sand.

Day 8-9

Kumarakom & Backwater Experience

Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and this small water world is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres, is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist’s paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live there in flocks are a fascination for visitors.  The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands.

Embark on an afternoon cruise around the backwaters in Kerala – a network of 1500 kms of canals both manmade and natural, 38 rivers and 5 big lakes extending from one end of Kerala to the other. Before trucks became popular, the main cargo transportation was through backwaters by ‘Kettuvalloms’. A ride on a Kettuvallom is a fabulous way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters.