Essence of Kerala

Arrive Kochi, the most cosmopolitan city of Kerala, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Starting from the Dutch, Portuguese and the British, Kochi was the site of the first European colonial settlements in India.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for 1 nights stay.

This evening, watch a spectacular Kathakali performance. Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in India. One of the most complex and highly stylized Indian art forms, this performance is a spectacular combination of drama, dance, music and ritual. Characters with vividly painted faces and elaborate costumes re-enact stories from the Hindu epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. Reach early for the unique opportunity to see the performers dressing up in their very elaborate and colorful costumes and painting their faces with make up to create the special persona for the performance.

After breakfast, take a guided walk through the historic Fort Kochi area. This morning we will visit the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church and see the authentic Chinese fishing nets still in active use by the fishermen in Kerala.

Later in time embark on a scenic drive to Periyar, the spice plantation hub of Kerala, upon arrival in Periyar, check in to your hotel for 2 nights stay.

This evening watch Kalaripayattu performance, one of the oldest form of martial arts and known as the mother of all martial arts. Kalarippayattu consists of punches, leg moves, stretches, twists, and jumps performed in a particular sequence. In Periyar, you get a unique opportunity to witness a performance of this ancient art along with the locals at the village arena

Early this morning, we take a guided walk with a naturalist in Periyar Wildlife Reserve. Observe some rare species of flora and fauna, along with a variety of birds and if you are lucky you may even spot a few elephants and wildlife across the lake.

This afternoon experience elephant safari through the plantation. Undisturbed by the mechanical roar of a car or jeep, open to the skies accompanied only by the rhythmic sound of the elephant, enjoy the ride through spice scented breeze, take a spice plantation tour and learn about the mystery and history of Indian spices. The spice plantations in Periyar are captivating farms growing different spices in different sections of the plantations. You will be intrigued to see the vast variety of spices ranging from cloves, cardamom, ginger, pepper, chilli, turmeric etc.

Early this morning after a leisurely breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kumarakom, Which is a popular tourism destination located near the city of Kottayam {16 kilometres (10 minutes), in Kerala, India, famous for its backwater tourism. It is set in the backdrop of the Vembanad Lake which is the largest freshwater lake in the state of Kerala

Upon arrival in Kumarakom, check in to your hotel for 02 Nights stay and Rest of the day free for personal activities and expressions

Early this morning enjoy en visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary for bird watching, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a small piece of heaven for nature lovers and bird watchers. Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, this preservation ground is a habitat to plenty of common as well as endangered species of residential and migratory birds, these include Siberian Cranes, Parrots, Herons, Owls, Egrets, Darters, and Waterfowls. Exploring the sprawling 14 acres in a canoe is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating things to do in Kumarakom.

Also visit Pathiramanal the fascinating island called the Sands of Midnight on the Vembanad Lake, can be reached by boat from here.

This morning board your houseboat to cruise through resort jetty, Kerala backwaters consist of a complex network of lagoons, lakes, & canals and are best experienced while slowly rowing down the labyrinth of canals in a traditional thatch-roofed houseboat, known as 'Kettuvallam'. Discover the daily life along the backwaters and watch the circle of life in endless shades of green. Enjoy the comfort of a floating suite, relax and discover the flavors of Kerala served on the sundeck as the fascinating life along the waterfront passes by.

After breakfast, drive to Kovalam, small coastal town in the southern Indian state of Kerala, south of Thiruvananthapuram, Upon arrival in Kovalam check in to your hotel for 08 nights (01 Nights Relax + 07 Night rejuvenation retreat)

This wellness retreat is designed for rejuvenation and complete relaxation by reconnecting your mind, body and soul. This Ayurvedic wellness retreat offers a complete lifestyle change by introducing you to ancient Indian therapies of Ayurveda, Yoga, and Meditation.  

Upon arrival, the Ayurveda doctor will assess your body as per the 5000 year old principles of Ayurveda. According to your Ayurvedic assessment, a schedule of therapeutic massages and Ayurvedic diet will be planned for all 8 days of your stay. Enjoy daily sessions of Yoga and Meditation, followed by Ayurvedic massage, an ancient Indian therapy that aims to re-energize your chakras and balance the flow of energy in the body. The vegetarian menu is especially designed as per your body assessment by the Ayurveda doctor.

Immerse yourself in the ancient wisdom of India and enjoy the following spiritual and cultural experiences, during your wellness retreat:

• A learning on Ayurveda that explains the concepts of Ayurveda and how this ancient Indian science has the power to change our genes.
• A sunset cruise along the backwaters of Kerala
• A special blessing ceremony at the temple of 9 planets where the head priest will conduct a special prayer for you with live fire and chanting to worship the 9 planets
• A village walk through the neighboring fishermen’s village to get a glimpse into the local life along the coast of Kerala
• A cooking demonstration with the Ayurveda chef of the resort who will explain about Ayurvedic cuisine and share a few Ayurveda recipes.
• 07 Night wellness retreat is inclusive of all meals
• Daily morning Yoga and Meditation
• Consultation with Ayurveda Doctor
• 02 Sessions of Ayurveda massage daily i.t total 14 massages per person

This morning, enjoy breakfast embark on your return drive to Trivandrum and in time transferred to the airport to connect to your flight back home / your onwards destination.