Itinerary Details
1 Arrive Kochi, India
For centuries, merchants, explorers, pilgrims and preachers have all found purpose in this bustling port, stretched across the canal-laced shores of the Laccadive Sea. Their footprints are everywhere: ancient mosques and synagogues, Portuguese churches and Dutch-style houses, Hindu temples and fishing nets. In this heady city of artsy cafes and theaters famed for traditional dance, touch down, settle in and prepare for your private adventure.
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2 Kochi – Cultural Crossroads
Kochi comes to life as fisherfolk cast nets amid early morning sea traffic. Visit the bustling seafood auction for a glimpse of the day's first trade, while locals engage in coastal walks, beach yoga or morning workouts. Have tea at a neighborhood tea house before stepping into one of the city’s Soviet-era communist reading rooms. Then ferry to Ernakulam to explore its lively markets and the Ernakulatappan Temple, for which the city is named, followed by a fresh South Indian breakfast. Continue to visit Kochi’s cultural landmarks, including the Jewish Synagogue, the Ramayana murals of Mattancherry Palace, St. Francis Church and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. This evening, attend a Kathakali performance at Greenix Theater.
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3 Munnar – Heart Of The Region’s Tea Trade
Occupying the highest altitude in southern India, this serene hill station has long been the favored summer retreat for those looking to escape the heat. Here you’ll find the region’s largest expanse of tea plantations, which coat the mist-covered hills in a blanket of green. Follow winding lanes that draw you through the sloping hills, past expansive views of manicured tea fields, monsoon-fed waterfalls and picturesque villages as you absorb the verdant beauty of this region.
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4 Munnar – Tea Museum And A Tasting
Trace Munnar’s ties to the tea trade, from when the British established the first estates in the late 19th century to its ongoing role as a leading producer today, with a visit to the Tea Museum. Afterward, tour a local working plantation before sampling one of the area’s finest brews.
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5 Periyar – Living Wonders Of Southern India
On the road to Kerala’s tropical Malabar Coast, Periyar spills through the clove-scented Cardamom Hills, an emerald-green landscape of tamarind groves, mango forests and lush peaks quenched by mists. Set out on a guided nature walk in Periyar National Park, roaming the lush landscape of Periyar at your own pace and keeping watch for wild residents, such as Asian elephants, sloth bears and Bengal tigers, as well as the wide array of birds living here. Tonight, take in a lively demonstration of Kalaripayattu, the world’s oldest martial art, featuring masters trained in combat skills, acrobatics and traditional weapons.
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6 Kerala – Idyllic Houseboat Cruise
Daily life on the backwaters of the Kerala region has remained largely unaltered for centuries, a world away from the bustle of the cities. Discover age-old artisan crafts, watch skilled fishermen ply their trade and see local life play out on the picturesque shores as you drift between the trees. Board a traditional kettuvallam houseboat — a well-appointed vessel made from eco-friendly bamboo, wood and rope — for a serene cruise through the backwaters of Kerala. Drift past coconut groves and quiet villages lining Vembanad Lake, the region’s largest waterway, where life unfolds at a gentle, timeless pace. Eat a freshly prepared lunch on board as the boat glides through tranquil lagoons.
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7 Kumarakom – Hands-On Immersion In Rural Life
In the village of Kumarakom, where canals outnumber streets, settle into your relaxing resort. Then head out into a palm-shaded maze of surrounding lagoons and coconut groves to immerse yourself in rural Keralan life. Try your hand at weaving coconut leaves, learn tried-and-tested net fishing techniques or browse a range of products made from the leaves of screw pine trees.
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8 Kumarakom – Last Day In Paradise
Once again delve into daily life in Kumarakom, taking part in a range of activities, from coconut climbing and picking to a visit to a coconut oil extraction center. Wherever you go, interact with locals who are happy to introduce you to an authentic experience found only in these sleepy Kerala backwaters.
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9 Depart Kochi
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