Classic Kerala

Itinerary

Day 1 Kochi

Kerala's eclectic history is most evident in Kochi. Here, India's oldest European church sits alongside mosques and synagogues, Portuguese homes nestle against English manors, and Chinese fishing nets line the harbour shores. After a day spent exploring, experience Keralan culture at a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

Day 2 Munnar

Craggy mountain peaks, tropical forests and lush tea plantations surround the hill station of Munnar. Discover the secrets of tea processing and sip a local brew while admiring the views of soaring Anamudi, India's highest peak south of the Himalaya.

Days 3-4 Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Savour the delicious flavours of a home-cooked meal at a local spice plantation before venturing into the acclaimed Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Wander amid colourful flowers and lush trees and keep an eye out for bison, elephants, deer and even tigers.

Day 5 Kumarakom

Listen to the calls of exotic birds and relax on the lotus-lined banks of Lake Vembanad. Bird lovers should definitely squeeze in a visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a favourite haunt for many domestic and migratory species.

Days 6-7 Alleppey

Cruise through the sleepy Keralan backwaters to Alleppey, a pleasant market town perched on the banks of palm-lined canals. Enjoy a leisurely cruise through the winding waters to a local friend's house, where a scrumptious banana leaf lunch awaits. After sharing the meal, take a heritage walk through the village to learn more about life and culture in this corner of the world.

Days 8-9 Varkala

Witness ancient Hindu traditions of worship at the Snake Temple at Mannarsala, an important fertility shrine, en route to the temple town of Varkala. Sip chai at one of the cliff-top cafes, practise some yoga or visit the 2,000-year-old Janardhana Temple. Rejuvenate with a traditional Ayurvedic massage before enjoying a refreshing dip in the sparkling Arabian Sea.

Days 10-12 Kochi

Return to Kochi and take a guided walk through laidback Fort Cochin. Visit the beautifully restored Dutch Palace, then spend an afternoon exploring this eclectic city at leisure, perhaps taking the opportunity to peruse some of the many galleries, before a farewell dinner in one of the fabulous local restaurants.