A 7-Day Private Journey Through Kerala

Welcome to Cochin! Upon arrival at Cochin Airport, you will be met by your private driver and driven approximately 1-hour to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Alternatively, you can stroll along the waterfront to see fishermen working the Chinese fishing nets. 

Today, focus on the historical and characterful ‘heart’ of the city, the area of Fort Kochi. Surrounded by a wonderful blend of colonial architecture we will visit the Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue and St Francis Church - the oldest church in India. Also explore the spice market. Until recently they even had an old-fashioned Pepper Exchange. The old spice shops are sadly all gone but it is still interesting to browse around these narrow lanes dotted with ‘antique’ shops. Afternoon at leisure. In the evening enjoy a performance of Kathakali, Kerala’s unique dance drama. Originally performed only by men, this art form with its intricate hand gestures, facial expressions and choreographed movements evolved from an ancient martial art form. (B)

Embark on a 4-hour journey to Periyar-Thekkady, celebrated for its spices and wildlife reserve. After hotel check-in, join the afternoon Spice Plantation Tour for insights into the local spice-driven economy and the delicate harmony with Periyar's biodiversity. Interact with farmers to grasp their way of life and sustainable farming practices.In the evening, experience the ancient martial art of Kalarippayattu in a captivating show. With roots dating back 3000 years and credited to Sage Parasurama, this art form is integral to Kerala's mytho-historical heritage. The performance, held in a specially designed gallery, provides a safe and clear view of this traditional psycho-physiological discipline. (B)

Today, head off and drive approximately 3-hours and 30-minutes to Kumarakom and check in at your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Kumarakom is a village on Vembanad Lake in the backwaters of Kerala. It’s laced with canals, where houseboats ply the waters. It is also a popular place to study yoga and meditation, and get some Ayurvedic massages. (B)

Today,you will embark on your houseboat from the hotel which will sail down gently on the backwaters of Kerala. The backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. The network includes five large lakes linked by canals, both manmade and natural, fed by 38 rivers, and extending virtually half the length of Kerala state. Kerala has over 900 km of interconnected waterways, rivers, lakes, and inlets that make up the Kerala backwaters. In the midst of this beautiful landscape, there are a number of towns. Alleppey is one such town and the Rice Barge cruises through its narrow canals, rivers and lake are on every Kerala itinerary. (B,L,D)