Best of Kerala Holidays, India

Namaskaram! Today, after a hearty breakfast, we will head for a city tour of Kochi . We will be visiting some of the major attractions like Vasco Da Gama Square, the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, St. Francis CSI Church, VOC Gate, Bastion Bungalow, Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace, and the likes. Along the journey, we will hear stories and learn how the locals cast the famous Chinese fishing nets that were established between 1350 and 1450. For a more cultural insight, we will spend the evening watching a classical dance drama. - Kathakali, popular for its elaborate vibrant makeup and costumes of the characters. 

Overnight stay at the hotel in Kochi

Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we will be driving to Thekkady through the winding roads, rick plantations, jungles and a tranquil countryside. You are arriving into Thekkady in the Idukki district of Kerala which is known for the world-famous Periyar National Park. A sight of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake is quite common in the area. You will already be able to feel the abundance of natural spices such as black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and clove that are grown here.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Again after breakfast, we will be heading to visit one of the famous spice plantations where you will also be able to see a variety of bird species that visit depending on the time of the year. In the evening, we will take a short boat trip in the lake at The Periyar Wildlife sanctuary.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Today, after your breakfast, we will visit a local Tea Factory where you will meet a few local tea pickers and take a guided walk through the tea plantations. Thereafter, we have arranged your visit to the Tea museum & tea tasting experience. We know how much you love you teas, don’t we fellow Britons! Later, we will drive to visit Kannan Devan Hills from where there are some of the most magnificent views of Munnar Tea Estates & Munnar Lake. In the  early evening, we will visit the Rajamalai National park, which is the only park in India where you can spot Indian Ibex.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Munnar.

Today, we are driving to Kumarakom, 15km west of Kottayam on the shores of Kerala's largest lake - Vembanad Lake. It is home to the world-famous backwaters and lagoons, dazzling top end resorts and a renowned bird sanctuary. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Kumarakom.

Today will be a delight for the bird watchers and nature lovers because we are visiting the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary after your breakfast at the hotel. Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, it is home to species of birds including Darters, Bitterns, Brahminy kites, Marsh Harries, Teals and varieties of Herons. We recommend that you need to pack some binoculars for the best Kerala Experience Tour. Later we will be on a short cruise through the narrow canals and coir villages of Kumarakom.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Kumarakom.

And, as we said, you are in the backwaters village, so today, you will be on your very own private houseboat in the backwaters. First, cruise through the beautiful maze of backwaters. Rest of the day is for you to take in all the beauty that comes with staying in the houseboats. You have your private one or two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a kitchen, an open lounge, deck and a personalised service by a 3 member team — the oarsmen, a cook and guide. All your meals will be served on board.

Overnight onboard the houseboat.

This day we will drive to Kovalam which is one of the most popular coastal retreats, not just in Kerala but all of India. You have the rest of the day to yourself! We recommend to go and explore one of the local villages and sample a coconut beer or just spend the day at the beach.

Overnight stay at the beach resort in Kovalam .