Welcome to Kerala! Start your journey in Kumarakom, a stunning backwater destination known for its serene beauty and lush landscapes. In the morning, take a relaxing boat ride on the Vembanad Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala. Enjoy the picturesque views and witness the local life along the banks. In the afternoon, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers with its diverse avian population. As the evening sets in, unwind in your lakeside resort and indulge in the flavors of authentic Kerala cuisine.
On day two, head to Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East, for an enchanting backwater experience. In the morning, embark on a traditional houseboat cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey, surrounded by coconut groves and paddy fields. Glide through the narrow canals and witness the idyllic rural life of Kerala. Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients. In the afternoon, explore the quaint villages and interact with the friendly locals. As the day comes to an end, savor a mesmerizing sunset view over the backwaters.
Day three takes you to Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. In the morning, embark on a jungle safari to explore the diverse wildlife of the region. Encounter elephants, tigers, and various bird species as you navigate through the dense forests. After the safari, visit a spice plantation and learn about the cultivation of aromatic spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, offering an opportunity to spot wildlife coming to the water's edge to drink. Finish the day with a traditional Kathakali dance performance in the evening.
On day four, head to Cochin, a vibrant city renowned for its cultural heritage. In the morning, explore Fort Kochi, a historic neighborhood known for its colonial architecture and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the nearby Santa Cruz Basilica. In the afternoon, delve into the local art scene by visiting the Kerala Folklore Museum or explore the vibrant Jew Town, home to the Paradesi Synagogue. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of storytelling through dance and music.
On day five, continue your exploration of Cochin's rich heritage and delectable cuisine. In the morning, visit the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing exquisite murals and artifacts depicting the history of Cochin. Explore the nearby spice markets and indulge in some spice shopping. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along Marine Drive, a scenic promenade overlooking the backwaters. As the evening sets in, savor a traditional Kerala thali, a platter of various vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies.
On your final day, bid farewell to the enchanting land of Kerala. Take some time to relax in the morning and reminisce about the incredible experiences you've had during your journey. After check-out, you will be transferred to the Cochin International Airport for your departure flight.
While exploring Kumarakom, don't miss the opportunity to visit Pathiramanal Island, a hidden gem located in the backwaters. This small island is a paradise for birdwatchers, with numerous migratory and native bird species. In Alleppey, venture beyond the usual tourist spots and visit the Marari Beach, a tranquil stretch of coastline known for its pristine beauty. In Thekkady, take a nature walk along the trails of Gavi, a lesser-known eco-tourism spot offering untouched wilderness and breathtaking views. In Cochin, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional Theyyam performance, a vibrant ritual art form unique to Kerala.
For hotel and flight bookings, check out https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.