Trip Duration:
12 days
Recommended season:
November - March
India - Trip Summary
A customized 12-day South India tour begins in Cochin, one of South India’s major coastal cities. We’ll explore the city, visit the historic synagogue and the small Jewish community that still resides here, and enjoy a unique Kathakali performance. Next, we head to Munnar to visit its lush tea plantations, local villages, and the Eravikulam National Park. Our journey continues to Kumarakom, a hidden paradise among coconut trees, where we’ll enjoy an overnight houseboat cruise through Kumarakom’s canals. Finally, we relax at the coastal town of Kovalam. This South India tour offers a colorful and spiritual encounter with India, a land of diverse people, languages, traditions, and landscapes—a vibrant cultural tapestry where time often feels paused. With a private English-speaking guide and dedicated driver, our customized tours provide an unforgettable experience at your pace and style.
Tropical Vacation • Backwaters • Kerala
Day 1: Arrival - Kochi
Upon landing in Kochi, one of the key coastal cities in South India, you’ll discover a place rich in history and culture. Kochi is home to a vibrant Jewish community, one of the most unique and historically significant Jewish diasporas in the world.
Upon arrival, you’ll meet our representative at the airport for a smooth transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Kochi.
Day 2: Kochi - City Tour
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a city tour of Kochi, one of the most fascinating cities in South India, known for its unique location and rich cultural tapestry. The city features narrow winding streets filled with Portuguese-style houses, lively bars, and neon-lit avenues, alongside a vibrant Jewish community, a synagogue, and the church where Vasco da Gama is buried.
We’ll visit the synagogue and the small Jewish community that still thrives here. The tour will also take us to the Dutch Palace and allow us to observe the iconic Chinese fishing nets that line the coast.
In the evening, we’ll enjoy a traditional Kathakali performance, a distinctive dance form of Kerala, characterized by its elaborate makeup and dramatic expressions. Following the performance, we’ll return to the hotel.
Overnight in Kochi.
Day 3: Kochi - Munnar - Journey through Tea Estates
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a 5-hour drive to Munnar, located approximately 130 kilometers east of Kochi at an elevation of over 1,500 meters. Known for its pleasant climate, Munnar served as a hill station during the British colonial period. Surrounding the town are vast stretches of tea plantations that adorn the slopes of the hills. Originally planted by the British, over 80% of these tea estates are now owned by the Tata family, renowned globally for their automotive industry.
Upon arrival, we will visit the tea plantations and enjoy a circular walking trail through the lush greenery, local villages, and breathtaking views. This immersive experience will allow us to appreciate the beauty of Munnar and its rich tea heritage.
Overnight in Munnar.
Day 4: Munnar - Eravikulam National Park
After breakfast, we will head to Eravikulam National Park, which spans approximately 100 square kilometers and encompasses the peak of Anamudi, the highest mountain in South India. This stunning park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and offers breathtaking views of the lush Western Ghats.
Following our exploration of the park, we will visit the historic area of Munnar. Here, we’ll check out the local Catholic church, the Tea Museum, which showcases the history and significance of tea production in the region, and the bustling central market, where you can find local goods and souvenirs.
After our city exploration, we will return to the hotel for the night.
Overnight in Munnar.
Day 5: Munnar - Kumarakom
After breakfast, we will embark on a 4-hour drive to Kumarakom, located on the banks of the beautiful Vembanad Lake, approximately 75 kilometers from Kochi. Kumarakom is a hidden paradise nestled among coconut trees, known for its serene backwaters and lush landscapes.
Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel, and the remainder of the day will be free for you to relax and explore the serene surroundings.
Overnight in Kumarakom.
Day 6: Kumarakom - Rural Experience
After breakfast, we will embark on a serene boat ride through the backwaters of Kumarakom. During our journey, we will visit a local village, where we can meet the residents and learn about their traditional way of life.
The remainder of the day will be free for you to relax and explore the natural beauty surrounding you.
Overnight in Kumarakom.
Day 7: Kumarakom - Houseboat Experience
After breakfast, we will board a Kettuvalam, a traditional houseboat that has been modernized for comfort. These boats feature spacious bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and a dining area, making for a cozy experience on the water.
As we cruise along the picturesque backwaters, we will observe the daily lives of the locals and the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. The experience includes overnight accommodation on the boat, with lunch and dinner served on deck, allowing you to savor the beauty of Kumarakom while enjoying local cuisine.
Overnight on the houseboat.
Day 8: Houseboat Cruise – Kovalam
Early risers can enjoy the stunning sunrise as breakfast is served on board.
We will conclude our cruise in the early afternoon and drive approximately four hours to the coastal town of Kovalam. Renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Kovalam is located along the Malabar Coast in Kerala. The town features three crescent-shaped beaches framed by swaying palm trees and golden sands, making it a popular destination for relaxation and water sports.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Kovalam.
Day 9: Kovalam - Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Kovalam with breakfast included. Relax on the beautiful beaches, indulge in water sports, or explore the local shops and markets at your own pace. Whether you choose to unwind by the sea or savor traditional Kerala cuisine at one of the many restaurants, Kovalam offers a perfect escape for leisure and enjoyment.
Overnight in Kovalam.
Day 10: Kovalam - Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Kovalam with breakfast included.
Overnight in Kovalam.
Day 11: Kovalam - Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Kovalam with breakfast included.
Overnight in Kovalam.
Day 12: Kovalam - Trivandrum - Departure
After breakfast and according to your flight schedule, we will take a short drive of about half an hour to Trivandrum Airport for your return journey home.
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The trip to India was an extraordinary experience! All transfers were well-organized, the driver was experienced and spoke fluent English, and the hotels were excellent. We especially loved the night on the boat – an unforgettable experience. The final hotel with Ayurveda treatments was simply perfectdeganit
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