Kerala is a popular tourist destination in India, known for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences. Here are some key attractions and activities that make Kerala a must-visit:
1. Backwaters
- Alleppey: Explore the serene backwaters on a houseboat. Enjoy the lush scenery, local villages, and traditional cuisine.
- Kumarakom: Known for its bird sanctuary and tranquil backwaters, it’s perfect for birdwatching and relaxing.
2. Beaches
- Kovalam: Famous for its crescent-shaped beaches, Kovalam is ideal for sunbathing, water sports, and beachside cafes.
- Varkala: Known for its dramatic cliffs and natural springs, it offers a more laid-back atmosphere.
3. Hill Stations
- Munnar: Renowned for its tea plantations, stunning landscapes, and pleasant climate. Don’t miss the Eravikulam National Park and Anamudi Peak.
- Wayanad: Known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. Explore the Edakkal Caves and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
4. Cultural Experiences
- Kathakali and Mohiniyattam: Attend performances of these traditional dance forms that narrate stories through expressive movements and elaborate costumes.
- Festivals: Participate in vibrant festivals like Onam, Vishu, and Thrissur Pooram to experience local traditions.
5. Cuisine
- Indulge in Kerala’s famous dishes, including appam, puttu, seafood curries, and the elaborate sadya (a traditional feast served on a banana leaf).
Tour highlights
- Marvel at cantilevered Chinese fishing nets.
- Take a cruise on a traditional rice barge.
- Walk through tea plantations.
- Explore a spice plantation.
- Relax on a palm-fringed beach.
Itinerary
On arrival at Cochin Airport, you're met by an Audley representative and introduced to your private driver who will stay with you for the rest of your stay. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, depending on the arrival time of your flight. Stroll along the waterfront to see fishermen working the Chinese fishing nets, or just relax at your hotel.
Stay at Old Harbour Hotel
Enjoy a private tour of colonial Cochin today with your local guide. The tour usually lasts for around half a day and includes St Francis' Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica. Your guide can tailor the tour to suit your interests. This evening you will be welcomed to a family home to learn some secrets of mouth-watering Keralan recipes. You can then enjoy the fruits of your labor with your friendly hosts.
Stay at Old Harbour Hotel
This morning, drive for around three hours into rural Kerala to stay at a traditional homestay. The property is warm and welcoming, surrounded by beautiful spice gardens and a wonderful flowing river at the bottom of the garden, where you can even have a swim.
Stay at Dewalokam Homestay
Spend today at your leisure. There are plenty of activities to choose from, just have a chat with Jose and Sinta, your hosts. Enjoy a spice plantation walk, cycle around the nearby village, visit a local temple, learn about honey extraction and even try milking a cow.
Stay at Dewalokam Homestay
This morning head up to the Western Ghats; a three-hour drive to the town of Munnar. Look out for some wonderful waterfalls on your way to the tea country. Relax on arrival and take in the beautiful views, go birdwatching or on a butterfly walk. Your hotel can arrange activities if you wish.
Stay at Windermere Estate
Spend the morning trekking through the beautiful hills surrounding Munnar. Your private trek is with a local, experienced guide. If you find the trek too strenuous, ask your guide to take it at a slower pace and shorten it if need be.
Stay at Windermere Estate
This morning, drive the four-hour journey to Periyar National Park. In the afternoon you will travel on a 4x4 tour to discover the villages and to visit a family spice farm at Kumily.
Stay at Spice Village
The morning will be at leisure. After brunch, travel for around three to four hours to the Keralan Backwaters. Board your traditional private rice barge and spend your afternoon and evening relaxing as you float around the waterways.
On board ship, Keralan Houseboats (Rice barges)
Wake up on your houseboat and enjoy breakfast before disembarking. Your driver is on hand to meet you and take you to Marari Beach.
Stay at Marari Beach Resort
Take a stroll along the beach or relax under a palm tree with a book.
Stay at Marari Beach Resort
Full day at leisure. You might like to try an Ayurvedic massage or hire a bicycle to explore the quiet surrounding lanes.
Stay at Marari Beach Resort
Your driver will take you back to Cochin for your onward flight. The drive takes around 90 minutes so will be arranged depending on your flight time.
Mararikulam
