Day 1
Kochi
Namaste and welcome to Kochi (also known as Cochin), a coastal city in southwestern India with a rich history of trade and cultural exchange dating back to 1341. Over the centuries, Kochi has been shaped by influences from Portuguese, Chinese, and British traders. On arrival at the airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel.
This evening at 6 pm, join a welcome meeting where you'll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. If you're feeling sociable, why not enjoy an optional dinner together to get to know each other better?
Day 2
Kochi
Start the day with a guided exploration of Kochi, led by your group leader. Travel to the coastal area of Fort Kochi, where diverse cultural influences are still evident. Highlights include the grand Santa Cruz Basilica – one of India’s oldest Catholic churches – and St. Francis Church, believed to be the earliest European-built church in the country.
You’ll also visit Mattancherry Palace, originally constructed by the Portuguese in the 1500s and later renovated by the Dutch, as well as the oldest active Jewish synagogue in India. In the evening, attend a mesmerising performance of Kathakali – an elaborate classical dance-drama known for its vivid costumes and expressive gestures, based on stories from Hindu epics.
Breakfast included
Approximate total travel time today is 3 hours.
Day 3
Munnar
Travel inland today to the scenic hill station of Munnar, nestled among the misty Western Ghats. Known for its tea plantations and cool climate, Munnar is a haven for tea lovers.
This afternoon, delve into the area’s tea heritage with a visit to the Tea Museum, which traces the history and development of tea production in the region. The evening is free for you to relax or explore – your group leader will be happy to offer local recommendations for dinner or sightseeing.
Breakfast included
Approximate travel time today is 5 hours.
Day 4
Munnar
Begin your day with a visit to one of Munnar’s thriving tea plantations. Wander through the rolling hills carpeted with tea bushes and learn about the harvesting and production process.
Later, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Mattupetty Dam, a serene reservoir often visited by wild elephants and bison. Round off the afternoon with a visit to Echo Point Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The evening is yours to spend as you wish.
Breakfast and Dinner included
Approximate travel time today is 6 hours.
Day 5
Periyar
Munnar’s fertile landscape isn’t just perfect for tea – it’s also a major centre for spice cultivation. This morning, explore a local spice plantation and learn about the medicinal and culinary uses of various herbs, spices, and plants, many of which play a key role in Ayurveda. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy an optional lunch prepared using fresh local spices.
In the afternoon, watch a captivating demonstration of kalarippayattu – a traditional Indian martial art believed to be the oldest surviving combat form in the world. Later, continue your journey southwards to Periyar.
Breakfast included
Approximate travel time today is 4 hours.
Day 6
Periyar
This morning, set off on a guided walk through Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected reserve nestled in the Western Ghats. With luck, you might spot elephants or even a tiger in their natural habitat.
Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure – perhaps treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic massage. In the evening, take part in a Kerala cooking class and then enjoy the delicious results as you sit down to a group meal, savouring the local spices and flavours.
Breakfast included
Day 7
Kumarakom
This morning, travel to the famous Kerala Backwaters – a network of calm canals, lakes and lagoons. Continue on to Kumarakom, set along the banks of Lake Vembanad, where you’ll enjoy a guided nature walk. This biodiverse region is home to a wide variety of bird and aquatic life.
In the late afternoon, board a boat for a relaxing one-hour sunset cruise through the backwaters. Later, gather for a special group dinner at a local restaurant that supports and trains women from the community. Dishes may include Kerala fish curry, meen pollichathu (spiced fish wrapped in banana leaves), and avial – a coconut-based vegetable dish.
Breakfast and Dinner included
Approximate travel time today is 4 hours.
Day 8
Kovalam
Today’s journey takes you further south to Kovalam, a once-sleepy fishing village that has evolved into a beloved beach destination. With golden sands and swaying palms, it’s the perfect place to wind down your journey.
This afternoon, visit Positive Change for Marine Life. The organisation works with local communities to combat marine pollution and reduce plastic use. In the evening, you might like to join your group for a final dinner together, celebrating your adventure with dishes rich in coconut, curry leaves, and fresh seafood.
Breakfast and Dinner included
Approximate travel time today is 5 hours.
Day 9
Depart Kovalam
Your trip concludes after breakfast. You’re free to depart from the hotel at any time today.
Breakfast included
