A Serene & Rejuvenating Journey Through Kerala
Complete Journey Overview
A Serene & Rejuvenating Journey Through Kerala
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi & Fort Kochi's Colonial Charm
Arrival at Cochin International Airport (COK)
Welcome to 'God's Own Country'! Upon arrival, your pre-booked private driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the charming Fort Kochi area.
Check-in at a Heritage Hotel
Settle into your hotel, a property that reflects the rich history of Fort Kochi. Take some time to relax and acclimatize.
Sunset Stroll at the Chinese Fishing Nets
Take a leisurely walk along the coast to see the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. The area comes alive at sunset, offering beautiful photo opportunities and a gentle introduction to local life.
Dinner at a Seaside Restaurant
Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring fresh seafood. Keralan cuisine is famous for its delicate use of spices and coconut. Try the 'Meen Pollichathu' (fish baked in a banana leaf).
Day 2: Art, History, and Culture in Kochi
Explore Mattancherry & Jew Town
After a leisurely breakfast, take a short auto-rickshaw or car ride to Mattancherry. Visit the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) for its stunning murals and the historic Paradesi Synagogue in Jew Town.
Lunch at a Local Cafe
Enjoy lunch at one of the many art cafes in Fort Kochi. These offer a mix of local and continental food in a relaxed, creative atmosphere.
Afternoon at Leisure or Spa
Spend the afternoon at your own pace. You could relax by the hotel pool, explore more of Fort Kochi's quiet lanes, or indulge in a relaxing massage at your hotel's spa.
Evening Kathakali Performance
Witness a traditional Kathakali performance, a classical Indian dance-drama. Arrive early to watch the artists meticulously apply their intricate makeup, which is a fascinating ritual in itself.
Day 3: Journey to the Tea-Covered Hills of Munnar
Drive from Kochi to Munnar
After breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive to Munnar. The journey takes you from the coast to the rolling hills of the Western Ghats, with stunning views of waterfalls and spice plantations en route.
Check-in at a Hill Resort
Arrive in Munnar and check into your resort, ideally one that offers panoramic views of the tea gardens. The fresh, cool mountain air is instantly rejuvenating.
Relax and Acclimatize
Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at your resort. Read a book on your balcony, take a dip in the pool, or simply soak in the serene views of the surrounding tea plantations.
Dinner with a View
Enjoy dinner at your resort's restaurant. Most high-end resorts in Munnar offer excellent dining with a focus on local ingredients, all accompanied by breathtaking nighttime views of the hills.
Day 4: Munnar's Verdant Landscapes & Spa Therapy
Visit a Tea Estate & Museum
After breakfast, visit a tea plantation to see how tea is grown and processed. A visit to the Tata Tea Museum (or a local estate like Lockhart) provides fascinating insights into the history and production of tea in the region.
Lunch in Munnar Town
Have a simple, authentic lunch in Munnar town to experience local flavors. There are many small restaurants serving delicious South Indian thalis.
Afternoon Ayurvedic Spa Session
Return to your resort for a pre-booked Ayurvedic spa treatment. This is a cornerstone of your relaxing Keralan journey. Choose a therapy like 'Abhyanga' (a full-body warm oil massage) for deep relaxation.
Evening at Leisure
Enjoy the post-spa bliss. Watch the mist roll over the tea gardens from your balcony as the sun sets. This is a perfect time for quiet reflection or meditation.
Day 5: Descend to the Tranquil Backwaters of Kumarakom
Drive from Munnar to Kumarakom
Enjoy a final mountain breakfast before descending from the hills to the lush backwaters of Kumarakom. The landscape will transform from tea gardens to paddy fields and coconut groves.
Check-in at a Backwater Resort
Arrive in Kumarakom, located on the banks of the vast Vembanad Lake. Check into a luxury resort that specializes in wellness and offers direct access to the backwaters.
Sunset Cruise on Vembanad Lake
In the late afternoon, embark on a serene sunset cruise. Glide through the calm waters of Vembanad Lake on a traditional boat, watching the sky change colors and observing local life along the banks.
Dinner by the Lake
Dine at your resort's specialty restaurant, often located by the lakeside. Enjoy local delicacies like 'Karimeen Pollichathu' (pearl spot fish) while listening to the gentle lapping of the water.
Day 6: A Day of Blissful Rejuvenation in Kumarakom
Morning Yoga or Meditation Session
Start your day with a guided yoga or meditation session. Many resorts offer complimentary classes in serene outdoor settings, allowing you to connect with nature and find your inner calm.
Gentle Walk in Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
After a healthy breakfast, take a short, gentle walk through the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. It's a peaceful haven for bird lovers, home to many local and migratory species.
Signature Ayurvedic Treatment
Dedicate the afternoon to a signature Ayurvedic therapy. Consider 'Shirodhara', a treatment where a continuous stream of warm, medicated oil is poured onto the forehead, known for its profound calming effect on the nervous system.
Traditional Kerala Sadya
For dinner, arrange to have a traditional 'Sadya' meal. This is a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with a variety of dishes, offering a comprehensive taste of Keralan cuisine.
Day 7: Coastal Serenity at Marari Beach
Short Drive to Marari Beach
After a final backwater breakfast, take a short and easy drive to Marari Beach, a clean and quiet beach known for its fishing villages and tranquil atmosphere.
Check-in at a Beach Resort
Check into your beachside resort. These properties are designed for relaxation, often with private villas, hammocks, and direct beach access.
Unwind by the Arabian Sea
Spend the afternoon doing absolutely nothing. Lounge by the pool, read in a hammock under a coconut tree, or take a long walk along the quiet, sandy shore. Listen to the sound of the waves and let go of any remaining stress.
Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at your resort. Many offer beachside dining experiences, allowing you to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and delicious coastal cuisine one last time.
Day 8: Departure from Kochi
Leisurely Breakfast
Enjoy a final, leisurely Keralan breakfast. Take your time and soak in the last moments of tranquility before you begin your journey home.
Transfer to Cochin International Airport (COK)
Your driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. The journey from Marari Beach to the airport is straightforward.
Q.What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The ideal time to visit Kerala is during the winter season, from October to February. The weather is pleasant and dry, p...
Q.How do I get around Kerala?
For a stress-free and leisurely trip as planned, hiring a private car with a driver for the entire duration is the most ...
Q.What are some must-try food items?
Don't miss the Kerala Sadya (a vegetarian feast on a banana leaf), Appam with stew, Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fis...
Q.What is Ayurveda and should I try it?
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine and wellness that focuses on balancing the body and mind. Kerala is ...
Q.What should I pack for a trip in January?
Pack light cotton clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sandals, a swimsuit, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect rep...
Q.Are credit cards widely accepted?
Major hotels, resorts, and larger restaurants accept credit cards. However, it's essential to carry sufficient cash (Ind...
Q.Any local customs I should be aware of?
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). It is customary to remove your sho...
Q.Is it safe to travel in Kerala?
Kerala is considered one of the safest destinations in India for tourists. However, like anywhere, it's wise to take sta...
