Kerala - the State of Spices and Tea
The Kerala, a unique region of India, reveals in its lagoons, true backwaters between land and sea, rice paddies, lush green mountains, and tea plantations. In addition to some of the most fascinating temples in all of India. This travel project offers you a wonderful discovery of Kerala with Keralan culinary art and the experience of Ayurvedic massage.
Detailed programme
Day 1: Arrival in Cochin
Welcome at Cochin International Airport and check in at the hotel.
Day 2: Cochin - Munnar
In the morning after your breakfast, drive to Munnar. Perched at 1500m above sea level, it is situated amidst the most spectacular mountainous landscape of South India. Due to its mild climate in an exceptional setting, it was the preferred summer residence of the British. Its beautifully maintained tea plantations, mountain air, and majestic lakes make Munnar and its surroundings a must-visit destination in Kerala. Upon arrival, transfer and check into your hotel. Relax in your hotel in the late afternoon. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Visit to Munnar
Surroundings of Munnar with a programme including a visit to a tea factory converted into a museum, an excursion in the tea plantations, a visit to a spice garden, Night in Munnar.
Possibility of a half-day hike with a private guide
Day 4: Munnar - Periyar
Route towards Periyar Park. In one of the most beautiful protected areas of South India, Periyar Park covers an area of 777 km² between 900 and 1800 m above sea level. Here you will see wildlife including elephants, tigers, sambars, Malabar giant squirrels, and 256 species of birds. You can also take a boat ride on Periyar Lake. Overnight in Thekkady.
Day 5: Periyar - Alleppey
In the morning after your breakfast, drive to the backwaters. A network of lagoons, lakes, rivers, and canals, the backwaters weave through lush vegetation and dictate a unique lifestyle to the local inhabitants. Upon arrival, embark on your houseboat. (Check-in times are around noon). The rest of the day is for navigating the backwaters. As you drift along this network of canals, rivers, lakes, and lagoons, simply let yourself be carried away while admiring the villages on the banks, allowing your mind to relax. Overnight on the houseboat.
Day 6 and 7: Alleppey - Mararikulam
In the morning after breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and then continue the journey to Mararikulam: One of the very beautiful beaches known as Marari Beach. Check-in at the hotel for 2 nights. Days to relax at the beach.
Day 8: Mararikulam - Cochin
Last day of your trip! Head to Cochin and check into the hotel for one night. In the afternoon, start the city tour of Cochin by visiting the Fort Kochi area and the Dutch Palace, the Jewish Quarter, the Pardesi Synagogue, and St. Francis Church built in 1503 by the Portuguese. You can also visit a fishing village and see the activities related to it.
Possibility to attend a Kerala cooking class.
Day 9: Departure
In the morning after your breakfast according to your flight schedule, transfer to the International airport for your return flight.
