Discover the beauty of Kerala on our classic 4-day tour. Explore the  historic city of Cochin and soak in the local culture. Cruise through  the picturesque backwaters of Alleppey and witness nature's wonder. This  expertly crafted itinerary offers an unforgettable experience. Book now  for a complete and authentic Kerala adventure. 

Arrive into Cochin. A trading port since at least Roman times, Cochin is on the main route between Europe and China. With a relaxed seaport lifestyle, it has changed little over the centuries. Guests experience the bustle of commerce in and about the city's go downs (warehouses) and open courtyards heaped with betel nut, ginger, peppercorns and hanks of coir (coconut husks). The air is filled with the scent of exotic spices and the shouts of vendors pushing heavy carts. It is easy to forget that one is in the 21st century! 

Upon arrival proceed to your hotel. 

The rest of the day is at leisure.

Most of Cochin’s historic buildings are in Fort Cochin, constructed by Portugal's Alfonzo de Albuquerque in 1500. Albuquerque arrived with half a dozen ships bearing settlers and five friars, and built the first European church in India, St. Francis Church.  The simply styled building is enhanced only by the beautiful floor tiles that line the main aisle.  A holdover from colonial days is the continued use of punkahs, large swinging cloth fans suspended above the congregation, and manually operated from outside the church.  On the same square, and in striking contrast, is the flamboyant décor of the 20th century Santa Cruz Cathedral – in an Indo-Romano-Rococo style.

The large, graceful Chinese fishing nets that line the shore of Fort Cochin are probably the single most familiar image of Kerala. Chinese Fishing Nets were actually introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan.  They cantilever over the harbour, and operate by a system of weights and levers.  The nets, on wooden frames, are raised periodically to check the catch.  Visit the Pardesi Synagogue, a tiny but delightful structure built in 1568. They then continue to Mattancherry or “Dutch Palace” which houses a remarkable series of murals rich in color and with painstaking detail. In the royal bedroom alone are 45 paintings illustrating the Ramayana – every inch of space covered with rich colour and painstaking detail.  There is also an interesting collection of Dutch maps of old Kochi, coronation robes belonging to the maharajas, royal palanquins, weapons and furniture. 

The surrounding area still called Jew Town. Spend time is spent in exploring a fascinating mix of so called antique shops, warehouses, and spice auction rooms.  Signs for N.X. Jacob’s tailor shop, and the offices of J.E. Cohen serve as reminders of a once thriving community – now consisting of about seven families. One tradition states that the first Jews settled near Cochin in 587 BC, after fleeing the occupation of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. Another legend claims that they came much earlier – in the 11th century BC, as part of a trading fleet sent by King Solomon. The earliest concrete evidence of their presence is a copper inscription dated AD 388. Whatever the truth of their arrival, they became and remained respected members of Kerala society.   

Optional Activity # 1 – Witness a Kathakali Dance Performance at a local theatre 

Late this afternoon you will proceed to a local theatre and witness this dance performance. Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in the world. It originated in the area of southwestern India now known as the state of Kerala. It is a well-developed dance-drama, where the actors depict characters from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.  

The Kathakali dance performance is very dramatic and is enacted with elaborate masks and costumes. Kathakali recitals are emotive and narrative, and combine dance with dialogue to bring myth and legend to life in the temple courtyards of Kerala. A traditional Kathakali performance begins in the evening and continues throughout the night, culminating at the auspicious hour of dawn, when Good finally conquers Evil. Today, however, this dance performance has been modified for the stage and the audience can witness this ritualistic theatre experience in the comfort of a plush auditorium, within the span of a couple of hours.

Optional Activity # 2 – Cooking demonstration with a local family followed by dinner. 

For over 2000n years Kerala has been visited by traders from all over the world and their influence has created a unique blend of cuisine of indigenous and foreign tastes adapted to Kerala!  The cuisine of Kerala is linked in all its richness to the culture of the land and offers a wide variety of delectable dishes. Coconuts growing in abundance in Kerala and have found their way into its food in the form of grated coconut and coconut milk and is used as a thickener and a flavouring ingredient. A long coastline has led to a flourishing fish industry, rice, tapioca are grown and form a major part of the cuisine. A major producer of spices such as black pepper, cardamom, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, curry leaf and all play a major role in the preparation of food. 

Your culinary experience takes place at the home of Nimmy Paul a culinary expert and author of the ‘Kitchens of Kerala! Get an insight and hands - on experience of authentic cuisine with a combination of vegetables, meats and seafood, Kerala cuisine is flavoured with the abundantly grown local spices. Your cooking demonstration will be followed by a sumptuous meal and return to your hotel with the lingering taste and subtle aromas of spices, and a wonderful and lasting impression of your Kerala experience.

This morning you will proceed to embankment point for boat cruises on an unforgettable journey to Alleppey passing through the coconut-palmed canals. Your cruise takes you through serene landscapes, coconut grooves and paddy fields.   

The term "backwaters" actually refers to the extensive network of rivers, lakes, canals and lagoons that lace together the coast and interior south of Kochi. For centuries these canals have provided a safe and efficient means of transportation for goods and people moving between the heartland and the port towns along the coast. Even today, coconut, pepper, coir (coconut husks), rice and other goods are carried along the waterways in traditional longboats called kettuvallam. 

Relax back in your boat as you glide through waterways lined with dense tropical vegetation. As you pass by the small villages you can observe the rural lifestyles of the people who bathe and wash their clothes at the water’s edge.   

Your views change frequently as you go past papaya and mango trees, coconut harvesting, coir factories and paddy fields. Glimpses of small churches, mosque and temples are testament to the many religions that co-exist peacefully. The occasional flash of a kingfisher or a parrot add color to the vista! 

Overnight onboard the houseboat.  

After breakfast onboard your houseboat you will disembark and drive to the Cochin airport and connect with your onwards flight!