Welcome to Kochi, the most fascinating city of Kerala. On arrival at Kochi International Airport, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Kochi is the magnificent entry to Kerala and has been featured in National Geographic Travellers “50 greatest places of a lifetime.” Spread over several islands and historically rich in culture with booming industries, the city is a fantastic beginning to exploring the vivacious diversity of Kerala. 

Later in the afternoon, explore Willingdon Island on your own cost. It is the largest man-made island in India. The island was formed in the year 1936 and was named after The 1st Earl of Willingdon, who was the British Viceroy of India during that time. One of the prime attractions here is Cochin Harbour Terminus railway station built by Britishers. It provides rail connectivity to the southern segment of the Port of Kochi. At Willingdon Island, you can enjoy a 15-minute boating tour which begins from Willingdon Island and goes up to Fort Kochi. Get back to Willingdon Island from Fort Kochi in the evening on your own cost which is very minimal (less than INR 100 per head).

OVERNIGHT IN KOCHI

A morning sightseeing tour will allow you to find out more about Kochi, a city on which the Dutch, British, French and Portuguese have left their mark throughout history. You’ll stop off at Fort Cochin (a centuries-old sea port), Vasco Da Gama Square and Santa Cruz Basilica. Next, head to St Francis’ Church, India’s oldest European church and the burial site of Vasco Da Gama. The VOC Gate, Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue are next on your list, followed by Mattancherry Palace and its sensational mural designs. China’s influence on the city can be seen though the “cheenavalas” (gigantic nets) from 1350, a demonstration of which can be observed through watching the fishermen on the shore who are all too happy for you to join them.

Post lunch, at around 14 30 hours, head out for a sightseeing tour covering famous tourist attractions of Kochi such as Vypeen Island, Our Lady of Ransom Basilica – Vallarpadam, Bolgatty Island and Marine drive.

Vypeen Island is a beautiful island destination sprawling over an area of 25 km. It is known for its long sand beaches and laid-back lifestyle. The island is surrounded by the Arabian Sea in the west and Periyar River in the east.

Later head to Our Lady of Ransom Basilica – Vallarpadam, also known as St. Mary's Church. The church was built in 1676 and in 1888 it was declared as a special church. The church houses the famous picture of the Blessed Virgin Mary which is said to have miraculous powers.

Next head to Bolgatty Island, a picturesque island located near Fort Kochi. The place is known for housing The Bolgatty Palace which was built in 1744 by the Dutch. It is now converted into a beautiful resort having its own golf course.

Your next stop is Marine drive. It offers magnificent views of the backwaters and Kochi Harbour. The walkway at the Marine drive it ideal for a relaxing stroll. Here you will enjoy a 1 hour harbour cruise tour (from 16 30 till 17 30 hours) which begins from Marine drive and ends at the Kochi Harbour.

Later head back to the hotel after 18 00 hours. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kochi. 

OVERNIGHT IN KOCHI

After a hearty breakfast you’ll drive to Munnar after check-out. Munnar is situated deep in the mountain ranges and offers an array of various tea plantations, as well as Acacia and Red Gum trees. Your first glimpse of Munnar will appear as you pass the Pallivasal tea estates, and then you’ll check in to your hotel.

Later at 17 00 to 18 00 hours, you will get to enjoy soft trekking inside the resort in Munnar. It will be a great experience on your Kerala tour and something you will remember for a lifetime.

OVERNIGHT IN MUNNAR

A full day of sightseeing is on the cards for today! You’ll begin by watching the goats in the Rajmalai Wildlife Sanctuary and then venture out to the Kannan Devan Hills, providing panoramic views of the surrounding areas and all its tea plantations. After lunch, you might catch a glimpse of wild elephants on your way to the Mattupetty Dam, and then you’ll enjoy a visit to the Tea Museum where an abundance of photographs and machinery will explain the colorful history of tea.

In the evening at around 18 00 hours, you will get to enjoy the cooking demonstration with the Chef at the resort. It is a wonderful activity which you must participate in to get the real taste of Kerala cuisine and food culture.

OVERNIGHT IN MUNNAR

Next stop is Thekkady. After checking out of your hotel, you’ll drive to Thekkady and check in to your new hotel, where you’ll spend the afternoon however you please.

You may stroll inside the resort and explore the different shops and activities there (between 15 00 to 16 00 hours). Check out the tree house coffees shop, Vermi Compost Plants, Rabit Park and Plants and Spices.

Kumily Village offers an exciting spice market where you can stock up on souvenirs. In the evening you’ll be spoiled for entertainment. First, you’ll watch the Kathakali dancing which uses elaborate costumes and makeup. After, Kalaripayattu is a martial arts display with different movements and sounds of swords slashing.

OVERNIGHT IN THEKKADY

Post-breakfast, you’re free to do as you please this morning before you head off on a fascinating boat cruise from the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Keep your eyes peeled for tigers, Leopard’s  elephants, Bison,Wild Pigs  and kingfishers, and understand fully how these animals operate in their natural habitat,Return to the hotel

Later in the afternoon at around 16 00 to 16 30 hours, enjoy the Kerala Saree and Dhothi demonstration inside the resort. This will be followed by an interesting video presentation about Periyar wildlife sanctuary in Thekkady and Kumily - the spice market of Kerala between 19:00 to 19:30 hours. After this, you will enjoy the cultural programmes such as Mohiniyattam, Bharatanatyam or Kuchipudi between 19 30 to 20:00 hours. All of these activities are arranged for inside the resort.

OVERNIGHT IN THEKKADY

You will then head out on a houseboat cruise along the backwaters towards Alleppey after breakfast. You’ll have your own personal floating villa for one night, while you admire the scenery of stunning Kerala, including huge Chinese fishing nets, paddy fields, locals going about their business, rustic buildings, temples and coconut trees. Local fish from the backwaters will be prepared with spices and lemon on board for you to eat as well.

OVERNIGHT ON THE HOUSEBOAT

After a mesmerising stay in the houseboat, it’s time to check out and head to Kovalam. This beach paradise is nothing short of breath-taking and is a nice change from the calm and serene backwaters of Alleppey. Kovalam is situated at the southern end of God’s own country and is an iconic tourist destination by itself. Find yourself immersed in the plethora of options for exploration in this stunning beach location.

You may start off your adventure by visiting Hawa Beach, more commonly called Eve’s beach. This energetic beach is a favourite amongst all tourists. You could bask in the sun, indulge on some delicious sea-food or even opt for some interesting adventure activities Another lovely choice for a relaxing beach day is the Samudra Beach. This sea-front is comparatively much less crowded and offers the perfect opportunity to unwind away from the chaos of the other public spots. 

You may return to your accommodation for the night for some much-needed relaxation.

OVERNIGHT IN KOVALAM

Start of your day with a delicious breakfast and gear up for an exciting day of adventure ahead.

A scenic destination that is a must-see during your trip in Kovalam is the Lighthouse Beach. This picturesque location has silvery-white sands and coconut trees that dot the perimeters of the beach. The highlight of this beach is the 30-metre high lighthouse situated at the far-end of this beach. You can reach the top of this spot by climbing a total of 142 steps. The spot also has an observation deck which offers some stunning sights of the surrounding areas.  This beach is also ideal to indulge in water-based activities like swimming, surfing and paragliding. All additional costs shall not be borne by the travel agency. 

The Leela Kovalam Beach is also a fantastic private beach to get some much-needed sunlight and to enjoy the lovely sunsets in Kovalam.

You may spend the rest of the day shopping in and around the numerous markets that are situated near the beach area. These markets are the perfect place to purchase some authentic Kerala goods such as spices, aromatic oils, wall décor and other memorabilia.

You may return to your hotel to unwind after an exciting day of exploration.

OVERNIGHT IN KOVALAM

Start off the day with a hearty breakfast and get set for some lovely sightseeing around Kovalam.

OVERNIGHT IN KOVALAM

It’s time to go! After breakfast, you’ll check out and this will be your last chance to load up on souvenirs. Nab yourself a silk sari or handmade version and Kerala will forever be in your heart!

BOARD YOUR RETURN FLIGHT HOME