Speak to our Travel Experts
Overview
Famed for its aromatic spices, peaceful backwaters, and lush landscapes, Kerala is an enchanting destination. Explore the art of Kathakali dance, discover Kovalam’s ancient Chinese fishing nets, search for the elusive tiger, and relax on India’s best beaches.
Highlights
- Just You Tour Manager as your host
- Return flights from Heathrow with Emirates Airways
- Use of an airport lounge in the UK
- 8 nights in 4 and 5-star hotels and a houseboat, plus 1 night in flight
- 19 meals: 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 8 dinners
- Welcome drink & farewell get-together
- Overseas transfers & other transportation
- Porterage
- Dedicated Just You representative to greet you at all UK airports
Itinerary
Day 1: UK to Cochin
Fly to India.
Day 2: Cochin
Arrive in Cochin, Kerala’s cosmopolitan capital, also known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea.” Explore its picturesque islands and tranquil backwaters. After settling in, meet your fellow travelers over dinner.
Day 3: Cochin
Start the day with a tour of Cochin. Visit the Jewish Synagogue, the oldest in the Commonwealth, and admire murals at the Dutch Palace (formerly Mattancherry Kerala Palace). Discover St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was buried. Enjoy a cooking demonstration at the home of a local chef, followed by a delicious meal. In the evening, learn about the Kathakali dance form before enjoying a “Sadya” vegetarian feast with the group.
Day 4: Thekkady
Take a scenic drive through rice paddies, tea plantations, and fragrant spice gardens to Thekkady. Enjoy a visit to a spice plantation where “black gold” – the famous Malabar Coast pepper – is grown.
Day 5: Thekkady
Explore Periyar Game Reserve on a boat trip, where you can spot elephants, bison, and deer. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a tiger amidst the exotic plants along the shoreline.
Day 6: Alleppey
Travel to Alleppey and board a traditional Kerala houseboat for an unforgettable overnight stay. Cruise through the backwaters and witness local life before anchoring in a tranquil spot for the night.
Day 7: Kumarakom
Enjoy breakfast on the houseboat, then head to Kumarakom, passing coconut farms and spice gardens. After a village tour and lunch, check in at your hotel for the evening.
Day 8: Kovalam
Travel to Kovalam, a stunning beach destination with magnificent beaches. Relax and soak up the sun on your arrival.
Day 9: Kovalam
Spend the day at your leisure. Visit the famous Chinese fishing nets on the beach or simply relax. Join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner in the evening.
Day 10: UK
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.
