Arrive in Kochi. Upon arrival, you will be met by our representative and transferred to the hotel for check in.
In the evening, witness the Kathakali, the classical dance drama of Kerala. The impressive mudras, graceful and rhythmic movements, pleasing choreography and delightful imagery makes Kathakali one of the most intricate dance forms. Themes are taken from Hindu Mythology often summed up with a lesson. Kathakali constitutes the three fine arts of acting, dancing, and singing. Not a single dialogue is spoken, but with the eloquence of expression, the epic is narrated and a dream world of sheer fantasy is brought to life.
Return to the hotel for overnight stay in Kochi
In the morning, proceed for a sightseeing visit to the Jewish Synagogue (closed on Fridays & Saturdays), built in 1568. Scrolls of the Old Testament and a number of copper plates inscribed in Hebrew script are preserved here. The building was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662, and rebuilt by the Dutch two years later.
Continue on to St. Francis Church, the oldest church constructed by the Europeans in India. Built by the Portuguese in 1510, it housed the remains of Vasco da Gama for 14 years before they were transferred to Lisbon. His tombstone can be seen inside the church.
Also visit the Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese in 1555. The Palace was presented to the Raja of Cochin as a gesture of goodwill. This was also known as the Dutch Palace (closed on Fridays), resulting from substantial renovation by the Dutch after 1663. The central hall was the Coronation Hall of the Rajas. Their dresses, turbans and palanquins and murals from Hindu mythology are all beautiful and worth seeing.
Return to the hotel for overnight stay in Kochi
Enjoy breakfast before checking out of the hotel. Depart for Periyar. On arrival, check in at the hotel.
Periyar is one of the world’s most fascinating wild life reserves. The Periyar wild life sanctuary in Thekkady is spread across 777 sq km, of which 360 sq km is thick evergreen forest. Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978.
In the evening, enjoy a cooking demonstration. Learn the art of mastering the intricacies of Indian spices, and using these, prepare a recipe alongside the chef. The recipe cooked will be served.
Overnight at the hotel in Periyar
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Morning is free to relax, or you can opt for a guided walk in the national park. The walk is very interesting and gives you the chance to see wildlife life at a very close distance. You could witness sambar deer, mouse deer, wild dogs, elephants, bison, several species of birds and butterflies.
In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Spice Plantation. See various species of spices and other aromatic plants/herbs. The guide will explain about the usage of different spices in Indian cuisine.
Later afternoon proceed to enjoy Kalaripayattu – Martial Arts performance.
Overnight at the hotel in Periyar
After breakfast, depart from the hotel and drive to the land of backwaters – Alleppey.
In Alleppey, you will go for a cruise on the traditional House Boat (Kettu Valam) of Kerala Style, which brings you along the narrow, quiet, small villages over 900 km of the labyrinth water world, lined with coconut palms. On the House Boat, you will experience the typical food of Kerala, sunbathing on the deck, staying away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
While on this excursion, you can observe the daily activities of the village people, living in the backwaters area making traditional boats, coconut oil and designing toys with coconut shells.
Overnight on a House Boat
After breakfast, drive to Kovalam, one of the most popular beach destinations in Kerala. Check in to your hotel.
Kovalam consists of 3 adjacent crescent beaches separated by rocky headlands, of which the southernmost Lighthouse Beach is the most famous. The Azure waters and favorable climate make Kovalam a favourite year-round destination for beach lovers. Day at leisure on the beach.
Overnight at the hotel in Kovalam
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Enjoy the day free at your leisure.
Overnight at the hotel in Kovalam
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Transfer to the Trivandrum Airport for your departure flight home.
