GLIMPSES OF KERALA

In the far south of India, Kerala has a distinctive charm unlike anywhere else in the country. Kerala is renowned for its numerous canals, waterways and lakes which together form the enchanting and truly relaxing backwaters.

This tour offers plenty of rest and relaxation. A cruise in a kettuvalam, a traditional south Indian houseboat, is a relaxing and genteel way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters.

Visit the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea', Kochi, a city made of islands and connected to the mainland by bridges and ferries. This quaint town has seen historic visits from sea faring traders in the past from places including Portugal and China, bringing to it different cultures that make up its fabric.

You will also visit Kumarakom which is situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. It is the most beautiful and picturesque backwater destination of Kerala and is famous for its rubber plantations and 15th century ancient churches.

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Day 1 Kochi

Met on arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, proceed to a local theatre where you will learn about Kerala's fascinating art form, Kathakali. The Kathakali performers begin to train for their art at a young age, and their study continues for a lifetime. Here you will enjoy a dance performance.
Overnight: Le Meridien

Day 2 Kochi

In the morning enjoy a city tour of Kochi and visit the ancient Mattancherry (Dutch) Palace built by the Portuguese in 1557. The most important features of the palace are the astonishing murals that adorn some of the palace rooms, depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranic legends connected with Shiva, Vishnu, Krishna, Kumara and Durga. You will also visit the Jewish Synagogue (built in 1568) which is the oldest synagogue in the commonwealth. It is an interesting little place with hand painted willow pattern floor tiles brought from Canton in China in the mid-18th century. The synagogue is located in an area called Jew Town, which is also one of the centres of the spice trade in the region. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Overnight: Le Meridien.
Meals : Breakfast

Day 3 Kumarakom

Drive to Kumarakom (approximately 2 hours). It's an enchantingly beautiful little paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with delightful waterways and canals. Kumarakom also has one of the finest bird sanctuaries in India. It is spread across 14 acres, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. It is home to egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork.
Overnight : Coconut Lagoon
Meals : Breakfast

Day 4 Kumarakom

In the morning enjoy a bird watching tour. Afternoon is at leisure, maybe book an ayurveda treatment, which is renowned in this region. Ayurveda is a holistic approach to toning the body. A relaxing massage with herbal oils is highly rejuvenating. Ayurveda means the science of life/health and employs naturalistic methods based on the theory of panchabhuta or five elements. Tone up the nervous system with the help of aromatic and medicinal oils used by expert masseurs.
Overnight : Coconut Lagoon
Meals : Breakfast

Day 5 Kumarakom

At 9 am, Proceed to a local jetty to board houseboat cruise. Sail through the backwaters. Lunch on board. Option of taking canoe boats and visit through the smaller channels to observe local life in backwater region. Tea/coffee will be served onboard. Disembark from houseboat and overnight at hotel.
Overnight : Coconut Lagoon
Meals : Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 Depart

Drive back to Kochi. Transfer to the international airport to continue with your onward arrangements.
Meals : Breakfast

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This private tour can be tailor-made to your own specifications with a choice of alternative accommodation, and duration.

Speak to one of our

india Experts

020 8423 3000

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Mon - Fri	:	9am to 6pm
Sat - Sun	:	Closed

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GLIMPSES OF KERALA