Captivating Kerala

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

6 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

48 peopleMaximum group size

5 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Chennai, India

Ends

Chennai, India

Highlights

Kochi: Dine with a local family in their home in Kochi and gain a fascinating insight into their lifestyle.

Periyar National Park: Witness the ancient art of Kalarippayattu as Kalari warriors dazzle you with leaps and somersaults. Afterwards, you’ll discover the discipline and skill behind this tradition with a hands-on martial arts lesson. This is your chance to channel the spirit of Kerala’s heritage in the most exciting way.

Kumarakom: Discover rural life on a walking tour with a local market visit.

Kumily: Learn about time-tested customs and the cultural significance of spice cultivation during your visit to Kumily Spice Garden.

Kerala Backwater Day Tours: Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional houseboat. Get an insider's look at the day-to-day activities of locals as you journey along Kerala's waterways.

Kochi: See the unique Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.

Explore Kochi

Visit Kumily Spice Garden and St. Francis Church in Kochi

Scenic Cruise the Kerala Backwaters on a houseboat

Kochi: See the unique Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.

Explore Kochi

Visit Kumily Spice Garden and St. Francis Church in Kochi

Scenic Cruise the Kerala Backwaters on a houseboat

Itinerary

Let Kerala's tranquil backwaters and lush spice-scented landscapes invite you on a sensory escape from the ordinary. Starting and ending in Chennai, the "Captivating Kerala" tour package guides experienced travelers over six leisurely days through the cultural and natural gems of Kochi, Kumarakom, and Chennai itself. Designed with an easy pace, this journey offers relaxed walks, authentic local encounters, and plenty of opportunities for reflection—ideal for those seeking comfort with a dash of discovery.

From the moment you set foot in Kerala, you'll be enchanted by the gentle rhythms of village life, the vivid colors of bustling markets, and the soothing sounds of water lapping against traditional houseboats. Enjoy guided sightseeing that introduces you to Kerala's storied heritage, from colonial Kochi with its blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences, to serene Kumarakom, where birdlife flourishes along tranquil waterways.

More than just a sightseeing trip, this tour package envelops you in the region's unique atmosphere—think fragrant spice plantations, sunset cruises, and the welcoming warmth of local communities. With all accommodations, comfortable transport, and delicious meals included, you can focus on soaking up the sights and savoring each moment. For experienced, discerning travelers, the unique selling point of this Kerala trip is its seamless blend of culture, nature, and comfort, offering a deeply immersive introduction to one of India’s most captivating corners without the rush. Let Kerala work its subtle magic on you—relax, rejuvenate, and return home inspired.

day 1 - Welcome to Kochi, Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala

On arrival at 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 colours 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 simpler way of life one where nature sets the pace for the day. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for local appetisers.

Location Visited:Kochi

Accommodation:Holiday Inn

day 2 - Nature and Relaxation in Periyar Dive Into Culture

Today you travel into Kerala's lush landscapes to Periyar, named after the state's longest river which winds through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. On arrival, you may choose to join an Optional Experience boat ride on Periyar Lake, watching for elephants and sambar deer along the shore and looking out for birdlife and smooth-coated otters in the shallows. Later, you'll head to your hotel to freshen up before you Dive Into Culture with a Kalarippayattu performance, as trained Kalari warriors demonstrate this ancient martial art and you'll try a few moves under the guidance of skilled masters.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Location Visited:Kochi, Periyar National Park

Accommodation:Elephant Court

day 3 - 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 is a visit to Kumily Spice Garden, where 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 Culture as you admire the vibrant day-to-day of village life in the regional market and lively streets.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Location Visited:Periyar National Park, Kumarakom

Accommodation:Backwater Ripples

day 4 - Cruise the Calm Backwaters

Kerala's intrinsic relationship with water takes centre stage today. But first, perhaps start your morning with an optional yoga session, embracing the tranquillity of your surroundings before breakfast. Then, board a traditional houseboat for a cruise through Kerala's iconic waterways. Take a deep breath and enjoy the slow, sultry pace of life as you wind your way to Alleppey, passing villagers in wooden Shikaras and palm-fringed shores. Even your ride for the day is rooted in history. These houseboats, known as Kettuvalloms, were once used to ferry rice and spices. Upon arriving in Alleppey, disembark and return to Kumarakom for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location Visited:Kumarakom, Alleppey Backwater, Kumarakom

Accommodation:Backwater Ripples

day 5 - Explore Multi-Cultural Kochi Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals

The remnants of Kerala's colourful, 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 centre, 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 dinner.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Location Visited:Kumarakom, Kochi

Accommodation:Holiday Inn

day 6 - 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.

Meals:Breakfast

Location Visited:Kochi

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What's Included

Accommodation

Cherrypicked hotels, all tried and trustedAll hotel tips, charges and local taxesOn occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

Meals

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Transport

Luxury airconditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Guide

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Others

All porterage and restaurant gratuitiesMustsee sightseeingAudio headsets for flexible sightseeingOptional Experiences and free time

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

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5.0

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Highlights

Itinerary

day 1 - Welcome to Kochi, Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala

day 2 - Nature and Relaxation in Periyar Dive Into Culture