Book Now
Exploring India

Classic Kerala

This classic itinerary takes you on a journey through Kerala’s varied landscape and colourful culture. Explore the the bustling port town of Fort Cochin with its pretty lanes and vibrant markets, walk through working tea plantations and thick rainforest of the Western Ghats, drift along the serene palm fringed backwaters on a traditional rice barge and relax on the golden sands of Mararikulam. Gain an insight to local culture and family life in this tropical region of India and experience the incredible cuisine as you go, which is so different to other regions in India. 

Your Itinerary

DAY 1 - YOUR ADVENTURE TO KERALA BEGINS

Start your fantastic journey to India today with your international overnight flight to Cochin, situated on the south-west coast of India.

DAY 2 - WELCOME TO FORT COCHIN

Arriving at Cochin airport you will be met by your driver who will transfer you to historic Fort Cochin. You may like to just relax at your property this afternoon or perhaps stroll along the waterfront watching local activities take place and the fishermen at work. In Fort Cochin, large Chinese fishing nets are still used and they dot the coastline here.

DAY 3 - DISCOVERING HISTORY

Explore the historic sights of Fort Cochin with your guide this morning where each corner holds an example of a bygone era that still stands proud. As you travel through the colonial streets by local tuk tuk, you will pass sights such as the oldest church in India, St Francis, the Dutch Palace and the Santa Cruz Basilica.

The rest of the day is at your leisure. If you would like to attend a Kathakali performance tonight, which originates from Kerala, please let us know or ask at your hotel on arrival.

DAY 4 - INTO RURAL KERALA

You will be driven from Fort Cochin with your driver this morning and head into the luscious countryside of Kerala. Arriving at Dewalokam, around 3 hours from Cochin, your hosts will give you a truly warm welcome. A homestay experience is so fantastic in Kerala and Dewalokam really is perfect for this. The house is surrounded by a flowing river, which you can cool off in, and gardens which grow the fruit and vegetables used in your food. A peaceful paradise for the next two nights!

DAY 5 - AN AMAZING HOMESTAY EXPERIENCE

Today has been left at your leisure as there are many activities to choose from at Dewalokam. You may like to start the day with a complimentary yoga session, then cycle to the nearby village before your host takes you around the garden and spice plantation learning about the organic farm.

DAY 6 - UP TO THE WESTERN GHATS OF MUNNAR

Today your morning will be spent driving through the beautiful countryside up to the tea and spice plantations of Munnar in the Western Ghats. With stunning views surrounding you, you might just like to relax this afternoon or perhaps enjoy one of the many activities the hotel can arrange for you such as bird watching or cycling.

DAY 7 - TREKKING THROUGH TEA PLANTATIONS

Experience a working tea plantation today, exploring the tea fields and watching the skilled tea leaf pluckers at work. You will also have the opportunity to visit a tea factory and learn the fascinating process tea goes through from plucking to auction and eventually your tea cup at home!

DAY 8 - SCENIC DRIVE TO PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK

After a leisurely morning where you might like to enjoy another activity in Munnar your driver will pick you up for your journey to the Periyar National Park. This drive is particularly beautiful and your driver will be happy for you to make stops to take some stunning photographs. When you have arrived you will have the evening to relax at your leisure.

DAY 9 - WILDLIFE AND SPICE PLANTATIONS

An early start today as you head out with a local ranger on a jungle walk of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep your eye out for sambar deer, giant squirrels, monkeys and wild boar amongst impressive bird life. Your walk should last for around three hours so make sure you have suitable footwear. This afternoon enjoy a guided was around a spice plantation learning about exotic spices, such as cardamom, cinnamon and vanilla, and their use in traditional Indian cooking and remedies. 

DAY 10 - LIFE ON WATER

This morning you will be transferred to Kerala’s famous backwaters in time to board your traditional rice barge. Spend the afternoon drifting along the serene waterways watching local life on the water’s edge pass you by. Moor up this evening and spend the night on board, enjoying a magical dinner under the stars. 

DAY 11 - HEAD TO THE BEACH OF MARARI

After a leisurely breakfast on board your driver will take you to the stunning Marari beach, your final destination in Kerala and on your Indian holiday. Beautiful and relaxing you will feel fully rested by the time you return home. Perhaps enjoy an Ayurvedic massage tonight.

DAY 12 - TIME TO RELAX

A final day at leisure in Kerala and what better way to spend it than enjoying its beautiful coast.

DAY 13 - FAREWELL KERALA

Your driver will take you back to Cochin in plenty of time for your departure flight home today.

DETAILS: -

This itinerary costs from £1,500 per person B&B and is based on two people sharing during the high season (Oct-Mar) excluding the Christmas and New Year period. The price includes all private transfers and domestic travel but not international flights.

International flights tend to cost about £600pp for a return – do ask us for advice. Alternatively we can book the flights for you but a booking fee may apply.

What's included?

INCLUDED:
  • Prices start from £1,500 per person
  • Accommodation on B&B basis
  • Private transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Local taxes
  • All excursions and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • All trips are ATOL protected or ABTA bonded to ensure you are fully covered
Make a booking
Delhi
The gateway to many north India trips, Old and New Delhi are full of history and charm and it is an exciting place to explore. More
Agra
Agra is home to one of the most iconic buildings in the world, the Taj Mahal. Visiting this monument at sunrise is a truly magical once in a lifetime experience, and one that must not be missed. More
Jaipur
The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a riot of colour and rich in fascinating history. Stroll around the magnificent Amber Fort and marvel at the intricate facade of the Palace of the Winds. More
Ranthambore National Park
Search for the majestic Tiger and enjoy the peaceful landscape of rural Rajasthan. Fantastic accommodation options and a high population of Tigers makes Ranthambore a brilliant addition to north India tours for wildlife enthusiasts! More
Jodhpur
The blue hue of the city's old town, imposing Mehrangarh Fort and bustling markets makes Jodhpur one of the most colourful and characterful cities in Rajasthan. A selection of properties ranging from rustic traditional Haveli's to luxurious palaces make for a wonderful stay. The Blue City is the perfect backdrop for atmospheric photographs, so be sure to keep your camera handy! More
Jaisalmer
Known as The Golden City, and for good reason. Jaisalmer city and Fort rises out of the honey hued sands of the Thar Desert, and along with elaborate and intricate architecture it is one of the most atmospheric cities in north India. A camel ride into the surrounding dunes for a night under the stars completes the magical experience. More
Udaipur
The romantic lake-side city of Udaipur has a more relaxed pace than other cities, so is the perfect last stop on any Rajasthan tours. The picturesque Lake Pichola, the iconic Lake Palace, seemingly floating in the water, and the stunning hillside as the backdrop create the perfect setting for a lazy evening, cold beverage in hand, watching the sunset. More
Mumbai
Vibrant and exciting, Mumbai is a city of extremes. The home of Bollywood and the rich and famous, it is also home to one of the largest slums in Asia, Dharavi. A tour around Mumbai highlights the iconic monuments and rich culture, and gives a wonderful opportunity to get under the skin of the city and gain an insight into local life. More
Goa
Beaches lined with colourful shacks, golden sands, tropical Palm Trees and a relaxed, bohemian vibe is what you can expect to find in Goa. Head to north Goa for more of a buzz, central Goa to explore the relaxed capital of Panjim, and the less built-up south for a little more seclusion and peace. More
Fort Cochin
Relaxed and historic Fort Cochin is a wonderful place to explore, enjoying the beautiful sights of the Chinese fishing nets, colourful fishing boats lining the shore, coconut stalls sitting under the dappled sunlight and, if you're lucky, the odd sighting of the river Dolphin. More
Munnar
Travel inland from Kerala's tropical coast and you discover the hill station of Munnar, nestled within lush green tea plantations and breathtaking scenery. Spend your time walking through the country side and enjoying the view, learning how tea is picked and processed and gaining an insight into the local way of life in the hills. More
Thekkady
Thekkady is the location of Periyar National Park, a must for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Kerala. Enjoy Jungle treks into the park and keep your eyes peeled for Sambar Deer, Giant Squirrels, Monkeys and Wild Boar amongst impressive bird life. More
The Backwaters
Experiencing life on the backwaters is often a highlight of trips to Kerala. Drift down the waterways on a traditional Houseboat, or choose from a number of wonderful properties to stay in to enjoy this serene way of life, a total contrast from Indian cities. More
Marari Beach
The beautiful and peaceful Marari Beach is a wonderful way to end a trip in Kerala, relaxing on the vast golden sands and dipping your toes in the warm Arabian ocean. The setting of Kerala's tropical coastline is the perfect relaxing end to a tour of this region where you can just enjoy the surrounding nature. More
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands
You can expect to find stunning white sand beaches, azure waters, world class diving and exotic jungle on these remote islands in the Bay of Bengal. It can be a little more of a challenge to reach the islands, but it is more than worth it for the secluded tropical hideaway that awaits. More
Wayanad
The alluring rainforest covered mountains of Wayanad are spectacular and a must for nature lovers. Home to coffee and spice plantations, it makes a wonderful scenic change from the exotic beaches and tranquil waterways found on the coast of northern Kerala. More
Nileshwar
Nileshwar in northern Kerala is home to a beautiful coastline and peaceful waterways. Less touched by tourism than elsewhere in India, visitors to this region benefit from an off the beaten track experience of traditional houseboat cruises and village life on the waters edge. More
Varanasi
Located on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, Varanasi is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. An incredibly spiritual, historic and culturally rich city, a visit to Varanasi never fails to be a memorable one. Witness daily rituals on the water's edge and navigate the tangle of narrow lanes weaving through the city, too narrow for cars to pass through. More
Lucknow
Lucknow is the capital of Uttar Pradesh and full of magnificent architecture and fascinating history. The city is also very well known for it's delicious cuisine, unique to the region. More

Your adventure starts here!

Do you fancy having a chat about Classic Kerala? Personally, it's one of our favourite things to talk about.

Award-winning and fully-protected holidays
Itineraries & Destinations