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Leave the world behind and connect with the enchanting sounds of nature in Kerala. Savour its lingering aroma of spices, the gentle lapping of its backwaters and its vivid colours at every turn.
Leave the world behind and connect with the enchanting sounds of nature in Kerala. Savour its lingering aroma of spices, the gentle lapping of its backwaters and its vivid colours at every turn.
Welcome to Kochi, Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala
Dip more than your toes in the bountiful backwaters of Kerala, 'God's own country'. 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, let the freshest seafood melt in your mouth and sink into a more straightforward way of life - one where nature sets the pace for the day. But first, on arrival at Kochi Airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception with local appetisers.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Le Meridien Kochi
Your love affair with Kerala’s lush landscapes begins today. Head to Periyar, named after Kerala’s longest river which winds its way deep through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, your first stop. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sounds of nature during an immersive Nature Walk with an expert Local Specialist. Tread lightly along the dense forest trails, learning about the endemic flora and fauna, as Banyan, Teak and Bamboo trees provide a serene backdrop for a lesson in Kerala wildlife. You may be lucky enough to see herds of wild elephant and bison seeking to quench their thirst along the quiet shores of Periyar Lake. Or keep a keen eye out for hornbills, flycatchers and kites – some of the many species of local and migratory birds that flock to this pristine sanctuary. Your soul soothed after connecting with nature, you’ll head to your hotel to freshen up for an exhilarating Dive Into Culture Kalarippayattu performance. Watch as trained Kalari warriors show off this most ancient of martial arts, jumping and somersaulting in the ultimate coordination between mind and body. After a day of adventure, you’ll enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Explore the buffer zone of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with a Local Specialist. Tread lightly along the dense forest trails, learning about the endemic flora and fauna as Banyan, Teak and Bamboo trees provide a serene backdrop for a lesson in Kerala wildlife. You may be lucky enough to see herds of wild elephant and bison seeking to quench their thirst along the quiet shores of Periyar Lake. Or keep a keen eye out for hornbills, flycatchers and kites – some of the many species of local and migratory birds that flock to this pristine sanctuary. The price shown is in US dollars.
Adult Price: $17.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 3
Onwards to Kumarakom
The intoxicating scents of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves will linger long after today’s encounter with Kerala’s famous spices. Your first stop today is a visit to Kumily Spice Garden. Here 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 insights into the entire process of spice cultivation at close quarters and discover how Kerala’s spice trade with the world has shaped its culture and heritage to this day. 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 on its lively streets.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - The Zuri Kumarakom Resort and Spa
Kerala's intrinsic relationship with water takes centre stage today. Enjoy a leisurely start, then board a traditional houseboat for a cruise surrounded by Kerala's iconic backwaters. Take a deep breath and enjoy the slow, sultry pace of life fringing the narrow canals as you wind your way to Alleppey. Watch villagers wave to each other from their wooden Shikaras (traditional boats), see how life unfolds along the palm-fringed shoreline. Even your ride for the day is rooted in history. These houseboats, known locally as Kettuvalloms, were formerly old barges used to ferry rice and spices. Upon arriving in Alleppey, you'll disembark and return to Kumarakom for dinner and a relaxing evening.
No trip to India is complete without a relaxing yoga session! This one-hour experience is tailored for both yoga lovers and those who are new to the practice. Yoga practice helps to achieve three important goals, that go beyond health, healing and wellbeing. It helps to change the dynamics between mind, body and spirit, which is the key to successful meditation. The English speaking instructor will guide you through the various yoga positions and breathing exercises. There will also be a short session to discuss the importance of Yoga in our day-to-day life and the instructor will be happy to answer any questions. A Yoga mat will be provided. The price shown is in US dollars.
Adult Price: $27.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 5
Explore Multi-Cultural Kochi
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 would come 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 dot the cityscape of what was once known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Enjoy some free time for lunch and then embark on a city tour to see this multi-cultural centre first-hand, including views of the Mattancherry Dutch Palace and St Francis Church, built by Portuguese traders. Visit the Fort Kochi area and see the traditional cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, unique to this part of Kerala. Admire how these fixed land installations made on bamboo scaffolding are artfully lowered into the sea to catch the seafood for which Kochi is so famous. This evening, Connect With Locals and enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local family followed by a delicious Be My Guest Farewell Dinner.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Le Meridien Kochi
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Day 6
Farewell Kochi
Your epic encounter with Kerala's culture and natural wonders has sadly 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.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 2
Nature Walk in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore the buffer zone of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with a Local Specialist. Tread lightly along the dense forest trails, learning about the endemic flora and fauna as Banyan, Teak and Bamboo trees provide a serene backdrop for a lesson in Kerala wildlife. You may be lucky enough to see herds of wild elephant and bison seeking to quench their thirst along the quiet shores of Periyar Lake. Or keep a keen eye out for hornbills, flycatchers and kites – some of the many species of local and migratory birds that flock to this pristine sanctuary. The price shown is in US dollars.
Adult Price: $17.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Early Morning Yoga
No trip to India is complete without a relaxing yoga session! This one-hour experience is tailored for both yoga lovers and those who are new to the practice. Yoga practice helps to achieve three important goals, that go beyond health, healing and wellbeing. It helps to change the dynamics between mind, body and spirit, which is the key to successful meditation. The English speaking instructor will guide you through the various yoga positions and breathing exercises. There will also be a short session to discuss the importance of Yoga in our day-to-day life and the instructor will be happy to answer any questions. A Yoga mat will be provided. The price shown is in US dollars.
Adult Price: $27.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
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Your selected departure date will feature some seasonal itinerary changes to what is displayed. Click 'VIEW ITINERARY' below to see full details.
Active Trip Details
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What is an Active Trip? This is an "Active" lifestyle itinerary, with walks and hikes most days. Hikes will range from easy/moderate to strenuous. No technical climbing skills are required but a reasonable level of fitness is required to make the trip more enjoyable. Understanding that not all people want to hike at the same pace or even on the same trail we will, where possible, host map orientation and then let everyone disperse to enjoy the trails best suited to them.
What to Pack Guests should bring lightweight hiking shoes or boots, broad brimmed sun hats, sunglasses, layered clothing, reusable water bottle(s), a hiking day pack and hiking poles (optional)
Weather & Altitude While the itinerary is laid out below, we are at the mercy of the weather and so reserve the right to adjust the program as necessary. Please keep in mind that the higher elevations and possible variations in weather and temperature can increase the perceived level of difficulty of our activities. Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet for Utah’s Mighty Five and up to 11,000 feet for California High Country Adventure.
Everyone reacts differently to altitude and so if you do have any health issues you should check with your doctor that this trip is suitable for you.
