Overview

On the second day of your stay, begin with breakfast followed by a guided tour of Kochi. Visit the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry, an impressive structure built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Continue to the ornately decorated Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town, a captivating site steeped in history. Then explore St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, built in 1582, known as the original burial site of Vasco da Gama before his remains were moved to Portugal. Don’t miss the iconic Chinese fishing nets, where local fishermen demonstrate their unique operation. Return to the hotel in the afternoon for some rest. In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing performance of Kathakali, Kerala’s traditional dance form known for its elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling. End the day with an overnight stay at the hotel.

After a refreshing night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, begin your journey to Munnar by car. The scenic drive winds through picturesque hill roads, reaching an altitude of approximately 5,906 feet. En route, you’ll have the opportunity to savor freshly brewed tea straight from the gardens and observe the tea-picking and processing firsthand. In the afternoon, visit the Tea Museum established by the Tata Company, which showcases the evolution of tea production—from traditional rollers to modern automated machinery. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and enjoy a restful overnight stay at your hotel.

This morning, we will begin our journey to Periyar, renowned for its wildlife sanctuary and the picturesque Periyar Lake at its center. The drive downhill, passing through lush coffee and pepper plantations, is an exhilarating experience. Upon arrival, you will embark on an afternoon boat ride on the lake. What makes this ride truly special is the scenery—grassy banks that gradually rise into dense forest, creating a magical transition into the wilderness. These forests are home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, gaur, sambar deer, wild boars, and even tigers. The boat ride also offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with sightings of herons, hornbills, and egrets. Elephants are most commonly seen from the boat, often arriving in herds to bathe or drink from the lake. If you’re lucky, you may also spot wild boars. In the evening, relax and unwind at your hotel, where you’ll enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Kumarakom — a charming village made up of small islands on Vembanad Lake. Known for its serene backwaters and houseboat tourism, Kumarakom is lined with tall coconut trees, vibrant flowers, and home to many colourful birds. Upon arrival, you can take a relaxing ride on a traditional rice boat before sunset. These boats, once used for transporting rice, have now been transformed into luxurious houseboats for a unique and peaceful experience.

After a leisurely breakfast in the morning, set out on a houseboat journey. These traditional boats, known as Kettuvalams—meaning “boats with knots”—are held together entirely by coir ropes, without the use of a single nail. Crafted by tying large wooden planks together, they offer a unique cruising experience through a network of serene canals and palm-lined waterways. Glide past vibrant green paddy fields, rustic villages, temples, and coconut groves. Along the way, stop at local villages to engage with the residents and gain insight into their daily lives. As the sun sets, the houseboat anchors in a peaceful spot on the lake, where you can enjoy the unforgettable experience of spending the night on board.

This marks the final day of your tour. Disembark from the boat at Alleppey and travel by road to Kochi. Arrive at the Kochi airport in time to catch your connecting flight to your onward destination, or choose to spend the night in Kochi.