India: Spice Lands of Kerala Tours
Explore ‘God’s Own Country’
The timeless beauty of Kerala is captured in its breathtaking scenery, historic monuments and tranquil villages. Kerala tours take a much more relaxed approach to discovering the magic of India. The exotic state of Kerala has become famous for its alluring spices and enchanting backwaters, enveloped by lush greenery and sprawling forests that are inhabited by remarkable wildlife. Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, crocodiles and leopards are among some of the amazing creatures you may see prowl the woodlands on Kerala tours. On board a traditional houseboat you can learn about fabulous flora and fauna coupled with Indian culture on a trip along the tranquil waterways.
Kerala is often referred to as ‘God’s own country’ due to its sheer natural beauty that few other countries of the world possess. Reputed as one of ‘The Ten Paradises of the World’, Kerala tours attract many visitors who are spellbound by the country. Also popular for Ayurvedic treatments (native Indian medicine) and leafy tea plantations, this Kerala tour introduces you to some of India’s hidden gems. Read on to discover the destination of a lifetime…
Day 1 -
Arrive at Cochin - The start of your Kerala Tour
You will be met at the airport and transferred to a hotel where you will stay for the following two nights before your Kerala tours begin.
Day 2 -
Sightseeing in Cochin
Begin your spice lands holiday with a tour of Cochin, a vibrant city that successfully fuses local and European culture. There is an array of delightful sights and attractions to explore during your time here on a Kerala tour, witness the Chinese fishing nets that are exclusive to Cochin and stretch along the pristine coast. Admire the intricate murals portraying epic Hindu tales that adorn the walls of the Dutch Mattencherry Palace, or saunter along the cobblestone streets of the Jewish Quarter. Shop for souvenirs and antiques or if you prefer, pay a visit to the world’s oldest synagogue which was built in 1568 and is embellished with Belgian chandeliers and Chinese tiles. In the evening of this Kerala tour you can appreciate the flamboyant Kathakali, a traditional dance with brightly coloured costumes.
Meals included:
Breakfast
Day 3 -
Thekkady
Today our Kerala tours take you to Thekkady which is nestled among verdant plantations and hillside towns. The Periyar forests and wildlife sanctuary are located on the banks of the Periyar Lake, an artificial lagoon that is framed by evergreen woodlands and grasslands. Later in the evening you will be amazed at the Kalaripayattu show as you watch this magnificent martial art form being performed at a local theatre.
Meals included:
Breakfast
Day 4 -
Kumarakon
En route to the blissful backwaters, the Kerala tour allows you to savour the delicious aromas of the spice plantation as well as revealing the secrets of its harvest. Journey on to Kumarakon as the Kerala tour enters a captivating world of woody mangrove forests, coconut palms and a labyrinth of emerald waterways that are teeming with spectacular birdlife. Spend the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps taking in some more of the town’s sights or simply enjoying the comfort of your hotel.
Meals included:
Breakfast
Day 5 -
Backwater Cruise
On this morning’s Kerala tour we board an Indian houseboat and begin a relaxing cruise along some of the most beautiful and calming backwaters on Earth. Let the spirit of this natural area wash over you as we float past swaying palms and pretty villages that pepper the shores, a perfect way to experience some of the most stunning scenery in the world.
Meals included:
Breakfast
,
Lunch
,
Dinner
Day 6 -
Kovalam
During Kerala tours you will visit Kovalam which is the most popular and fashionable beach resort in India, given its definitive golden sands which are affectionately known as the ‘Paradise of the South’. Unwind on the beach as the warm, azure waves sweep across the shore bringing with them a gentle sea breeze, or uncover more unspoilt treasures of the area. On a Kerala tour you will find yourself tempted by the many delightful restaurants that sit amid this charming fishing village, offering a combination of Indian and Western cuisine with fresh local seafood.
Meals included:
Breakfast
Day 7 -
Padmanabhapuram
The Padmanabhapuram Palace, once the capital of the Rajas of Travancore, is placed inside an ancient granite fortress which lies at the foot of the Veli Hills. Be amazed at the wonderful architecture and intricate woodwork that makes this palace so impressive. Spend the rest of the day on the Kerala tour however you wish, perhaps sightseeing or relaxing amongst the exquisite scenery.
Meals included:
Breakfast
Day 8 -
Day at Leisure
Use this leisure time on your Kerala tour to further explore Kovalam or bathe at the hotel pool. If you prefer something a little more active, try your hand at surfing or take a ride in a wooden boat. Whatever you choose, you are sure to return home from your Kerala tour with a lifetime of unforgettable memories.
Meals included:
Breakfast
Day 9 -
Departure
Say goodbye to this beguiling country as your Kerala tour ends. Transfer to Trivandrum airport for your flight home.
Meals included:
Breakfast