Captivating Kerala

Captivating Kerala

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6 Days From

$1428

$1406

Captivating Kerala

6 Days Starting and ending in Kochi, India

Visiting: Kochi, Periyar National Park, Kumarakom, Alleppey

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

INKEN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1428 $1406 Operator discount: -$22

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Captivating Kerala" tour and immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of southern India. Begin your journey in Kochi, where you'll explore the city's rich history and enjoy a warm welcome with local appetizers. Discover the natural beauty of Periyar National Park, where you might spot wild elephants and exotic birds. Experience the aromatic allure of Kumily Spice Garden and the tranquil village life of Kumarakom. Cruise the serene backwaters on a traditional houseboat, witnessing the daily life along the palm-fringed shores. In Kochi, delve into the city's multicultural heritage, from colonial architecture to traditional Chinese fishing nets. Conclude your adventure with a memorable dinner hosted by a local family, offering a glimpse into their lifestyle. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and a blend of cultural and natural experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Kerala's enchanting charm.

Highlights

  • content:

    Must-see Highlights

    • Explore Kochi
    • Visit Kumily Spice Garden and St. Francis Church in Kochi
    • Scenic Cruise the Kerala Backwaters on a houseboat

  • content:

    Be My Guest

    Kochi: Visit and have dinner with a local family in their home in Kochi and gain a fascinating insight into their lifestyle.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Kochi, Gateway To The Backwaters Of Kerala

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Le Meridien Kochi

Accommodation Name: Le Meridien Kochi

On arrival to 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 colors 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 more straightforward way of life – one where nature sets the pace for the day. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception with local appetizers.

Day 2: Nature And Relaxation In Periyar Dive Into Culture

Location: Periyar National Park

Accommodation: Elephant Court

Accommodation Name: Elephant Court

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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. You may wish to spend the afternoon soaking up the sounds of nature during an immersive Nature Walk with a Local Specialist. Tread lightly along the dense forest trails as you learn about the endemic flora and fauna. 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. 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. With your soul soothed after connecting with nature, head to your hotel to freshen up before 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, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Day 3: Onwards To Kumarakom Dive Into Culture

Location: Kumarakom

Accommodation: The Zuri Kumarakom Resort and Spa

Accommodation Name: Rhythm Kumarakom

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The intoxicating scents of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves 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 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.

Day 4: Cruise The Calm Backwaters

Location: Alleppey

Accommodation: Resort, The Zuri Kumarakom Resort and Spa

Accommodation Name: Rhythm Kumarakom

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kerala’s intrinsic relationship with water takes center 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), and 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, disembark and return to Kumarakom for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 5: Explore Multi-Cultural Kochi Dive Into Culture Connect With Locals

Location: Kochi

Accommodation: Le Meridien Kochi

Accommodation Name: Le Meridien Kochi

Meals Included: Breakfast

The remnants of Kerala's colorful, 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 center, 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 Farewell Dinner.

Day 6: Farewell Kochi

Location: Kochi

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

What's Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities

  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

  • Optional Experiences and free time

  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Dining Summary

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 5 Breakfast (B)
  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
  • 1 Be My Guest (BMG)

Dive Into Culture

  • Periyar National Park: See an Indian martial arts performance.
  • Kumarakom: Discover rural life on a walking tour with a local market visit.
  • Kochi: See the unique Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey as you explore the scenic landscapes and cultural highlights of Kerala.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at Le Meridien Kochi, Elephant Court, and Rhythm Kumarakom, offering a blend of luxury and local charm, with amenities to ensure a relaxing experience throughout your journey in Kerala.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of cultural experiences can I expect on the Captivating Kerala tour?

    On the Captivating Kerala tour, you can expect to dive into the local culture with experiences such as a Nature Walk in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, witnessing a Kalarippayattu martial arts performance, exploring the spice gardens in Kumily, and enjoying a cooking demonstration and dinner with a local family in Kochi.

  • What activities are included during the visit to Periyar National Park?

    During the visit to Periyar National Park, you can participate in a Nature Walk with a Local Specialist, where you'll learn about the local flora and fauna. You might also see herds of wild elephants and bison, as well as various species of birds. Additionally, there is a Kalarippayattu martial arts performance to enjoy.

  • What is the highlight of the houseboat cruise on the Kerala backwaters?

    The highlight of the houseboat cruise on the Kerala backwaters is the leisurely journey through the narrow canals, observing the serene pace of life along the palm-fringed shores, and experiencing the traditional Kettuvalloms, which were once used to transport rice and spices.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Kochi on the last day of the tour?

    During the visit to Kochi on the last day of the tour, you will explore the city's multicultural heritage, including the Mattancherry Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church. You'll also see the traditional Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi and enjoy a farewell dinner with a local family, featuring a cooking demonstration.

  • What kind of meals are provided during the tour?

    The tour provides a variety of meals including daily breakfasts, up to half of your evening meals, a welcome reception with local appetizers, a Be My Guest dinner with a local family, and a lunch.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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