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Located on India’s tropical Malabar Coast, Kerala has been nicknamed as “God’s own country” owing to its breath-taking natural beauty coupled with its rich culture and traditions. Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations of South India and boasts of palm-lined beaches, backwaters, and a network of canals. The slopes of the Western Ghats in this region support tea, coffee, and spice plantations. Cochin is the center of culture and arts and is a must-visit for those going on a vacation in Kerala. Kerala holidays are incomplete without a houseboat cruise experience exploring the backwaters at Kumarakom and Alleppey. The Sunset Harbour Cruise in Cochin and Mararikulam beach are other important places to visit during your vacation in Kerala. Kerala attracts tourists not only from within India but from all across the globe.
| Day 1 |
Cochin Arrival Upon arriving at Cochin airport, our representative shall receive you and transfer you to the hotel. The beautiful and vibrant city of Cochin spreads over 4-5 islands and peninsulas. Ernakulam, the main town, is located on the mainland. The islands are connected with a network of ferryboats. The Chinese Fishing Nets are located around the headband of Fort Cochin. These nets dip in the sea during high tide. The streets are filled with the aroma of ginger, cardamom, and other spices. Relax and spend the day at leisure. In the evening, proceed for the Sunset Harbour cruise, one of the chief attractions of Kerala holidays. The cruise ride continues for about 1.5 hours during sunset and offers spectacular views of the Chinese Fishing Nets, Bolgatty Island, and Marine Drive. Seeing the sunset from the boat where the Kochi Lagoon opens out into the Arabian sea is an experience of a lifetime. Stay overnight at Cochin. |
| Day 2 |
Cochin After a delicious breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Cochin. Old Cochin- One of the oldest Jewish communities in the world, the history of the place goes back to nearly 2000 years. Although the community boasted of a population of 2500 in 1948, today there are fewer than 30 people. The community is centered around Jew Town which is home to the Pardesi Synagogue. The Pardesi Synagogue was built in 1568 and was reconstructed after a Portuguese bombardment in 1662. The synagogue is well known for its tile roof, bell tower, and its hand-painted, numerous brass and crystal lamps hanging from the ceiling, and willow-patterned, blue and white Chinese floor tiles. Another place to visit in the Jew town is the International Pepper Exchange. Other important places to visit include the Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church, Bastion Bungalow, and the like. According to records, they were set up in this region between 1350-1450 AD. In the evening, witness one of the major attractions of a vacation in Kerala- the Kathakali Dance Presentation. Kelikottu is the first act in the performance of this exotic dance form. The purpose of this piece is to attract the attention of the spectators. The next part of the performance is known as Todayam and Purappadu. This is followed by the Melappada where the musicians take over the stage. During Melapadda, the other characters perform in the Tiranokku section during this time. The Kathakali Dance Presentation is a prime attraction for Kerala holidays from tourists from all over the world. Stay overnight at Cochin. |
| Day 3 |
Cochin-Kumarakom (Houseboat Cruise) After having breakfast, proceed to Kumarakom and check into the houseboat for a day backwater cruise. Go on a leisurely backwater cruise along the lake on a thatched houseboat with all modern comforts within it. The cruise allows tourists to explore the countryside at their own pace. Enjoy delicious lunch, dinner, and breakfast in the houseboat. The houseboat cruise is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful backwaters during a vacation in Kerala. Enjoy the cruise ride through the backwaters of Alleppey. The lunch served on board consists of a simple and traditional menu. The food is prepared with fresh ingredients and the tourists can learn the recipes too from the chef. Tea and snacks are served in the evening. While the boat is anchored in the backwaters along a paddy field, tourists can go for a stroll in the village or relax at the deck of the houseboat. Dinner is served in the houseboat. Stay overnight at the houseboat. |
| Day 4 |
Alleppey-Marari Enjoy breakfast in the houseboat and cruise towards Alleppey. Disembark at a jetty and drive to Marari and check in to a beautiful beach resort. With its 62 thatched cottages, Marari is built in the style of a local fishing village. It is set on the golden shores of the Spice Coast and is the perfect place for tourists to relax and unwind. The Marari beach resort is located 60 km away from Cochin and is an ideal alternative to Kovalam if you are visiting the backwaters around Alleppey. The eco-friendly beautiful thatched cottage villas blend in perfectly with the natural palm-lined beaches at Marari. The place boasts of 62 villas set in the lush green gardens, some with private pools. It offers a suitable deluxe stay for tourists on a vacation in Kerala. The room amenities include air conditioning, minibar, tea/coffee facilities, and a wide range of natural bath products. Tourists can enjoy the simple local dishes with fruits and vegetables grown in their own organic garden and fresh seafood caught by the local fishermen. The swimming pool, tennis courts, Ayurvedic spa, and yoga are the other attractive features of this resort. The hotel is located only an hour away from Cochin and is an excellent place to end your Kerala holidays by relaxing. One can take long walks on the beach, enjoy bicycle rides, or do absolutely nothing. Marari was designed for tourists to relax and unwind. You can take a stroll down to the nearby village and explore the lifestyle of the local people. There are cookery classes on most evenings where one can learn to cook Keralan delicacies. Stay overnight at Marari. |
| Day 5 |
Marikulam Spend the day in leisure, enjoying the sun, beach, and Ayurveda. There are several Ayurvedic programs that are led by the resident doctor at the traditional clinic-like spa. Medicinal potions made out of roots and leaves are beautifully displayed in glass jars on polished wooden shelves. Indulge in authentic yoga lessons in the morning. The tennis court and beach volleyball facilities are major attractions of this place. The beautiful stone swimming pool is visited by the cheekiest crows during the day. The resort’s only TV, free Wifi, and library are found at the terrace of the clubhouse. Stay overnight at Marari. |
| Day 6 |
Marari-Cochin In the morning, drive to Cochin airport and take a flight back home. Carry the experience of a lifetime with you as you head home. |
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