Classic Kerala

Board your overnight flight from the UK to Cochin Airport COK.

Arrive at Cochin Airport.

Meet and greet provided at the airport followed by private transfers to the hotel for check in.

Enjoy a welcome drink (non-alcoholic) at the hotel on arrival.

Accommodation: 5* Holiday Inn, Kochi or similar.

After breakfast, set off on a fascinating sightseeing tour of Kochi. Explore the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, followed by visits to the historic St. Francis Church and the grand Santa Cruz Basilica. As you
drive along the coastline, you'll have the chance to see the famous Chinese Fishing Nets—an ingenious technique introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century and still in use today. The tour concludes in
the atmospheric Fort Kochi area, where you can wander past beautifully preserved Dutch and Portuguese buildings, some dating back nearly 500 years.

This evening, experience the mesmerising Kathakali dance performance, one of India’s most captivating art forms. This dramatic storytelling dance, based on tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, features
elaborately costumed performers, intricate facial makeup, and expressive movements, all brought to life with the rhythmic beats of drummers and traditional musicians.

ACCOMMODATION: 5* Holiday Inn, Kochi or similar.

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart from Cochin and enjoy a scenic drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its lush tea plantations. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax.

Discover the fascinating history of tea cultivation in Kerala with a visit to the Tea Museum, established by Tata Tea at the Nallathanni Estate. This unique museum showcases the evolution of Munnar’s tea industry
through a collection of photographs, artefacts, and vintage machinery, each representing a key milestone in the region’s rich tea heritage. A tribute to the pioneers who transformed Munnar into a thriving plantation
hub, the museum offers a delightful experience for tea enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Accommodation: 4* The Tall Trees, Munnar or similar.

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive from Munnar to Periyar, a region known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. On arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to unwind before heading out
to explore.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with a guided nature walk led by an expert naturalist. As you wander through the dense forest trails, you’ll gain insight into the
region’s diverse flora and fauna. If you’re lucky, you may spot herds of wild elephants and bison gathering at Periyar Lake, along with a variety of local and migratory birds that thrive in this rich ecosystem.

Accommodation: 5* The Elephant Court, Periyar or similar.

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, drive from Periyar to Alleppey (approximately 4.5 hour drive). On route, visit a Spice Plantation where you can enjoy a tour of the spice gardens and pick up some amazing fresh spices to take
home with you.

Once in Alleppey, board one of Kerala’s iconic houseboats. A unique opportunity to spend the night in one of Kerala’s famous houseboats, these iconic house boats, made from bamboo, were used to carry rice
from the adjoining paddy fields.

Enjoy lunch onboard and spend the rest of the afternoon cruising through narrow canals and soaking up the charming village life of Kerala.

In the evening, enjoy tea and cookies on board and then dinner. Spend the night on the anchored houseboat by a local village.

Accommodation: Evergreen AC House Boat (1 bed room).

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

After breakfast, disembark the houseboat and check-in at the backwater resort.

Enjoy the picturesque Vembanad Lake and experience what National Geographic Magazine has described as “one of the must-see places in a lifetime”.

Accommodation: 4* Lakesong Resort, Kumarakom or similar.

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, set off on an authentic village experience, beginning with a charming tuk-tuk ride followed by a peaceful journey on a hand-rowed boat through the smallest of the backwaters. With your local guide,
you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into community life, observing traditional skills such as coconut leaf weaving, rope making, and toddy tapping. You’ll also have the chance to watch local fishermen expertly casting their nets—a wonderful opportunity to experience the daily rhythms of village life up close.

Accommodation: 4* Lakesong Resort, Kumarakom or similar.

Meals included: Breakfast

Depart from Kumarakom and drive back to Kochi. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring the city at your own pace.

Accommodation: 5* Holiday Inn, Kochi or similar.

Meals included: Breakfast

Private transfers to Cochi airport and flight home.

Meals included: Breakfast

You will need a visa when travelling to India. You must arrange and pay for your visa before flying. Please check the visa rules carefully from your nearest Indian Embassy/Mission before applying.

Indian Rupee. You can take USD with you which you can get exchanged at the airport or at most hotels for Indian Rupees.

This tour is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness and normal mobility. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

We always advise to check with GP to make sure you are up to date for vaccinations required.

Monsoon season is from July through to September

Leech socks are provided for the nature walk.

Alcohol licenses are very expensive in Kerala. Alcohol is not available on the houseboat but can be bought in a supermarket beforehand and taken on board if clients so desire.    

4-years-old.

We advise you take biodegradable sun tan lotion and a hat.
When visiting temples and religious houses you often have to take off your shoes and cover shoulders and knees.

While tipping isn't mandatory, a small gesture of generosity is always appreciated, especially given the modest wages many workers receive. Setting aside a little extra for porters, guides, and drivers can make a big difference. Leaving some spare change at restaurants is also a kind way to show your appreciation for their hard work.

We advise you to take out suitable travel and health insurance