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Captivating Kerala
Leave the world behind and connect with the enchanting sounds of nature in Kerala. Savor its lingering aroma of spices, the gentle lapping of its backwaters and its vivid colors at every turn.
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Included With Your Trip
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted All porterage and restaurant gratuities All hotel tips, charges and local taxes Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) Optional Experiences and free time On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
Additional Information
Welcome to Kochi, Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala
On arrival to Kochi Airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel. The bountiful backwaters of Kerala, 'God's own country', welcome you. This slice of southern India is a lush garden filled with spices, brilliant colors and the enchanting sounds of nature. Relax on the tranquil shores of the Arabian Sea and let the freshest seafood melt in your mouth as you sink into a more straightforward way of life - one where nature sets the pace for the day. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception with local appetizers.
Hotel: Le Meridien Kochi
Nature and Relaxation in Periyar Dive Into Culture
Your love affair with Kerala's lush landscapes begins today. Head to Periyar, named after Kerala's longest river which winds its way deep through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, your first stop. Why not spend the afternoon soaking up the sounds of nature during an Optional Experience, an immersive Nature Walk with a Local Specialist? Tread lightly along the dense forest trails as you learn about the endemic flora and fauna. Banyan, Teak and Bamboo trees provide a serene backdrop for a lesson in Kerala wildlife. You might even be lucky enough to see herds of wild elephant and bison seeking to quench their thirst along the quiet shores of Periyar Lake. And don't forget to look up - hornbills, flycatchers and kites are just some of the many species of local and migratory birds that flock to this pristine sanctuary. With your soul soothed after connecting with nature, you'll head to your hotel to freshen up before the excitement continues. Get ready to Dive Into Culture with a Kalarippayattu performance. Watch as trained Kalari warriors show off this ancient martial art, jumping and somersaulting in the ultimate coordination between mind and body. After all that action it's your turn. Unleash your inner warrior with a Kalarippayattu lesson guided by skilled masters.
Hotel: Elephant Court
Onwards to Kumarakom Dive Into Culture
The intoxicating scents of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves linger long after today's encounter with Kerala's famous spices. Your first stop today is a visit to Kumily Spice Garden. Here you'll learn how the locals grow and share an astounding variety of flavourful spices, ranging from pepper and ginger to vanilla and cardamom, the 'Queen of Spices'. Gain in-depth insights into the process of spice cultivation and discover how Kerala's international spice trade has shaped its culture and heritage. There's more to experience as you head to Kumarakom, a tranquil village set on the peaceful banks of Lake Vembanad, the largest lake in Kerala. Embark on a walking tour and Dive Into Cultureas you admire the vibrant day-to-day of village life in the regional market and lively streets.
Hotel: Rhythm Kumarakom
Cruise the Calm Backwaters
Kerala's intrinsic relationship with water takes center stage today. Enjoy a leisurely start, then board a traditional houseboat for a cruise surrounded by Kerala's iconic backwaters. Take a deep breath and enjoy the slow, sultry pace of life fringing the narrow canals as you wind your way to Alleppey. Watch villagers wave to each other from their wooden Shikaras (traditional boats), and see how life unfolds along the palm-fringed shoreline. Even your ride for the day is rooted in history. These houseboats, known locally as Kettuvalloms, were formerly old barges used to ferry rice and spices. Upon arriving in Alleppey, disembark and return to Kumarakom for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Hotel: Rhythm Kumarakom
Explore Multi-Cultural Kochi Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals
The remnants of Kerala's colorful, centuries-old trading history are best explored in the old port city of Kochi. It was here that Chinese, Arab and European merchants came to buy the fragrant spices that found their way to tables all over the world. In turn, they left their mark on Kochi's architecture, cuisine and traditions. Colonial bungalows, Catholic churches, mosques and a European fort season the cityscape that was once known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Enjoy time for lunch before embarking on a city tour to see first-hand this multicultural center, including views of the Mattancherry Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church, built by Portuguese traders. Visit the Fort Kochi area and see traditional cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, unique to this part of Kerala. See how these fixed land installations made on bamboo scaffolding are artfully lowered into the sea to catch the seafood for which Kochi is famous. This evening, Connect With Locals and enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local family followed by a delicious Be My Guest Farewell Dinner.
Hotel: Le Meridien Kochi
Farewell Kochi
Your epic encounter with Kerala's culture and natural wonders has come to an end, but your memories will last a lifetime. Say farewell to your travel companions and take an airport transfer for your onward flight.
Departure Dates
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Start: February 25, 2025 End: March 2, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: March 8, 2025 End: March 13, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: March 18, 2025 End: March 23, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: April 8, 2025 End: April 13, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: April 22, 2025 End: April 27, 2025 Price: $1,428 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: May 20, 2025 End: May 25, 2025 Price: $1,428 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: June 3, 2025 End: June 8, 2025 Price: $1,428 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: October 14, 2025 End: October 19, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: October 24, 2025 End: October 29, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: November 10, 2025 End: November 15, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: November 25, 2025 End: November 30, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: December 9, 2025 End: December 14, 2025 Price: $1,540 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: December 27, 2025 End: January 1, 2026 Price: $2,010 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
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Start: January 3, 2026 End: January 8, 2026 Price: $2,010 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
Price My Trip
Product Code: TTUSAS-INKEN20
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