Classic Kerala Holiday

Spend the morning visiting Fort Cochin a historic district built upon the spice trade that reveals the influences of the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial powers and the Arab and Chinese traders. Sightseeing will include visits to the Dutch Palace with its murals of the Ramayana, the Jewish Synagogue, and the Church of St Francis – the oldest church in India (built 1503) and a stroll through Cochin’s bustling spice market. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Alternatively, this evening learn about the traditional Keralan martial art of ‘Kalaripayattu’ at a demonstration performance (supplement applies).

Leave Cochin behind and drive through the picturesque Cardamom Hills to a working spice plantation in the foothills of the Western Ghats. This afternoon, set off on a guided village walk and witness first-hand the simple lifestyle and the traditional customs the locals follow.

Begin your day with a gentle walking tour through Dewalokam’s spice gardens and learn about the multiple uses of spices. Then, join other guests and assist the resident chef in a hands-on cooking demonstration and learn about the role of spices in Keralan cuisine. The afternoon is at leisure to relax. Alternatively, swim in the Kannadipuzha River or trek to the beautiful Thommankuthu waterfalls nearby.

A scenic morning’s drive through lush lowland forests with scenic waterfalls will bring you to Munnar in the Western Ghats. Surrounded by its tea estates, this former colonial Hill Station has striking scenic vistas and is an ideal base for scenic walks and soft treks. After a later afternoon check-in at your hotel, the rest of the day is free to relax or explore the countryside independently.

Spend the morning exploring the picturesque countryside around Talayar Valley Bungalow. Your guided trail follows the winding Briar Tea estate road flanked by tea-covered hills and takes you to the quaint Gundumalai village, home to the estate workers. Beyond the village, the trail rewards you with spectacular panoramic views of the distant lush green valleys and takes you to the small yet scenic Lakkam Falls*, set amongst thick woods. The remainder of the day will be at leisure on returning to your hotel.

*The best time to visit the seasonal Lakkam waterfall is between October and January.

Set off on a scenic meandering drive through the roads of the hill to the alluring verdant Keralan backwaters, where you will check in at your beautifully located hotel. The remainder of the day will be at leisure to relax and enjoy your idyllic tropical surroundings.

Spend the morning exploring a typical Keralan backwater village and witness the unhurried pace of life in rural Kerala. A guided walk through the village offers the chance to see first-hand weavers creating attractive handicrafts, including traditional Kerala mats using pandan leaves (screw pine leaves), whilst a relaxing catamaran ride along a tranquil canal allows you to observe traditional fishing techniques that are still religiously practised.

This morning, board a converted traditional houseboat (air-conditioned) for a private cruise along Lake Vembanad before entering the enchanting backwaters near Alleppey. Fed by a network of rivers and linked by man-made and natural canals, a cruise through Kerala’s Backwaters is a scenic treat and also offers a superb opportunity to observe rural lifestyles and customs at a relaxed pace. After lunch, explore the exceptionally picturesque narrow sections of the waterways by canoe, then return to your houseboat before sunset and have dinner on board.

On disembarking from your houseboat, drive through the lush tropical Keralan countryside to the village of Mararikulam on the tranquil shores of the Indian Ocean. After checking in at your hotel, the remainder of the day will be at leisure to relax on a virtually empty beach. Alternatively, you might like to visit the village of Mararikulam independently to gain an insight into village life.

Have a lie-in, relax on the beach or by the pool. Alternatively, participate in a yoga session or enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic massage.

Transfer to Cochin International Airport and check in for your onward flight.