Captivating Kerala - From £855

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.