Today, you will embark on a sightseeing tour of Kochi, exploring the historic neighbourhoods of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

In Fort Kochi, you will visit St. Francis Church, where Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was originally buried in 1524, and admire the Santa Cruz Cathedral, once repurposed as a warehouse by the British. You will also stroll along the harbor, where the iconic Chinese fishing nets, introduced in the late 14th century, still sway over the water.

In Mattancherry, you will explore the Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese in the mid-1500s in traditional Kerala style, and wander through Jew Town, a historic area once home to a thriving Jewish community, now lined with antique shops and bustling warehouses.

After breakfast, the journey continues into the hills, leaving the coastal plains behind for the cool mountain landscapes of Munnar. The drive winds through scenic mountain roads, passing valleys, forests, and plantations along the way.

Munnar, once a summer retreat during colonial times, lies at the confluence of three mountain streams and is surrounded by lakes, reservoirs, and vast tea estates. Overlooking the region is Anamudi, the highest peak in southern India at 2,695 meters (9,725 feet), adding to the dramatic beauty of the Western Ghats. Alongside its natural grandeur, the area is also home to community-based initiatives where traditional crafts and sustainable practices are preserved, offering insight into local life and creativity.

After an early breakfast, we take a short drive through old Munnar to the tiny village of Nagarmudi, where our guided trek begins. The trail starts with a gradual ascent through tea plantations before climbing into the Seven Malai Hills. Along the way, we are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Chithirapuram Dam, Changulam Lake, Anamudi, Munnar, and the surrounding villages (weather permitting).

The descent takes us back to our vehicle. While the trek includes a few steep ascents and descents, the pace is slow and steady, with plenty of rest stops to take in the scenery.

In the afternoon, there’s an optional visit to a tea museum, where we can delve into the history of tea production in Munnar, followed by an optional tea-tasting session, a perfect way to round off the day.

Leaving Kerala behind, we embark on a scenic drive (100 mi / 165 km) through the hills to the vibrant temple town of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. The journey takes approximately six to seven hours, with an expected arrival in the mid-afternoon.

After an early dinner, there’s an optional tour to witness the fascinating nightly closing ceremony at Sri Meenakshi Temple. Traveling by tuk-tuk convoy, led by a local guide, we head to this historic Hindu temple on the banks of the River Vaigai, dedicated to Parvati (Meenakshi) and Shiva (Sundareswarar).

The ceremony begins after the temple closes, Though wait times may vary. The procession, rich in tradition and devotion, is an unforgettable experience. Your local guide will explain the significance of the rituals, bringing the temple’s history and culture to life.

We start the day early for what many consider a highlight of the trip—a morning walk through Madurai as the city awakens. In small groups, we observe daily life unfolding: locals milking cows, crafting intricate kolams (floor art), and preparing breakfast at bustling roadside stalls. Along the way, we sample traditional drinks and snacks to keep us energized.

Our walk concludes at Sri Meenakshi Temple, a breathtaking example of Vijayanagar temple architecture, built between the 16th and 18th centuries. A hive of activity, the temple is alive with devotees, rituals, and a near-continuous religious festival. After soaking in its spiritual energy, we return to the hotel for a late breakfast and some downtime.

In the afternoon, we continue exploring Madurai’s rich history, beginning with the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, an Indo-Mughal architectural marvel built in 1636 by the Nayak dynasty. Next, we visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, where an immersive visual biography showcases photos, paintings, manuscripts, and even copies of Gandhi’s letters. Before heading back, we make a stop at the lively flower market, where vibrant colors and fragrant blooms fill the air.

As evening falls, Madurai offers a variety of dining options, with some of the best rooftop restaurants providing stunning panoramic views of the city skyline.

Leaving Madurai in the morning, we embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady, a lively village nestled in the Western Ghats. As we ascend through the winding mountain roads, we are treated to breathtaking views across Tamil Nadu, making the four-to-five-hour drive a truly spectacular experience.

Upon arrival in Thekkady, the afternoon is free to explore the village and its bustling bazaar, where local shops brim with fragrant spices like cardamom, vanilla, peppercorns, and turmeric.

In the evening, we take a guided walk through a spice garden, discovering how these aromatic treasures are grown. To end the day on a flavourful note, we join a local family in their home for a special dinner and cooking demonstration, offering an intimate glimpse into traditional Kerala cuisine.

Before breakfast, we set off on a nature walk in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India's largest national parks. Accompanied by a local guide, we spend two to three hours exploring the diverse flora and fauna before returning to the hotel for breakfast.

In the afternoon, there’s an optional boat cruise on Periyar Lake, offering a unique opportunity to observe wildlife up close. Keep an eye out for elephants, otters, wild pigs, buffalos, and a vibrant array of bird species like kingfishers, storks, and hornbills.

For those seeking cultural and wellness experiences, other optional activities include: Ayurvedic massage, Kathakali dance show, Kalaripayattu martial arts demonstration.

A day of adventure, nature, and culture awaits in Thekkady!

Descending from the hills, the journey continues into the rural heart of Kerala, where the landscape is dotted with rubber plantations, tropical orchards, and gently swaying palms. The area reflects a slower pace of life, offering a contrast to the bustle of the towns and cities.

The surroundings invite unhurried walks through villages and plantations, with opportunities to observe traditional practices such as rubber tapping. The atmosphere is calm and restorative, enhanced by birdsong and the natural beauty of the countryside.

For those seeking quiet moments, the setting is ideal for relaxation, while cultural interactions and insights into local livelihoods provide a deeper connection to the region. Additionally, optional yoga sessions can be arranged locally upon request (pricing depends on group size).

The journey continues to Kumarakom, a cluster of scenic islands set around Vembanad Lake, known for its tranquil backwaters, lush greenery, and rich birdlife. The serene atmosphere and natural beauty make this a perfect introduction to village life along the water’s edge.

Exploration here includes gentle boat rides across the lake, offering views of vibrant foliage and flocks of birds overhead, before reaching local communities where traditional ways of life are preserved. Visitors may see demonstrations of age-old skills such as coconut tree climbing, coir-making, weaving, and fishing, all practices that have shaped daily life for generations. The walk through paddy fields and waterways offers a deeper connection to the rhythms of rural Kerala.

Along the way, refreshing coconut water, glimpses into traditional food and drink, and encounters with local plants and spices provide authentic insights into the culture of the backwaters. These experiences combine to create a memorable journey through one of Kerala’s most distinctive landscapes.

The day begins with a walk through nearby villages, offering glimpses of traditional life and the serene atmosphere of the countryside. Along the way, the calm setting of a local temple adds to the sense of peace and reflection. The region is also known for its coir-making heritage, where coconut husks are transformed into products that remain an integral part of daily use.

Later, the journey continues with a houseboat cruise along the Kerala backwaters. Traditionally built from wild jack wood and bamboo, these boats were once used for transporting goods and are now crafted for comfortable exploration. As the boat drifts through palm-fringed canals, the scenery unfolds with birdlife, paddy fields, and waterways where village activities such as coconut fibre processing and fishing still take place. Anchoring by the shore at sunset, the tranquil views of the backwaters leave a lasting impression of Kerala’s unique landscape.

After leaving the houseboat, the journey continues with a scenic drive along the Malabar Coast toward the coastal town of Kovalam. The route passes through diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks, including a temple celebrated for its striking collection of snake images, a symbol of fertility and long-standing local traditions. The drive also offers opportunities to pause and experience the rhythms of everyday life along the coast.

Kovalam, once a quiet seaside village, has grown in popularity while retaining the beauty of its golden beaches and swaying palms. The town’s relaxed atmosphere, combined with its coastal scenery, makes it a fitting place to unwind and explore at leisure.

Today is free for you to relax on the soft, sandy beach or visit the local shops for any last-minute souvenirs. It's a great opportunity to savor fresh seafood at one of the many charming beachside restaurants. Be sure to try the tandoori dishes—the clay ovens enhance the flavours of the bread and curries.

If you're up for a little adventure, you can do an optional day trip from Kovalam to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, where the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal meet. If it's open, the excursion may also include a visit to the Padmanabhapuram Palace (Optional), an impressive wooden structure with intricate carvings, and the Hindu temple at Suchindram, known for its stunning stone carvings. This optional trip can be booked and paid for locally. Please note that it’s a full day, and the roads can experience traffic delays, but it’s a popular and memorable experience.

The tropical south journey comes to an end today, You will be transferred to the airport. Wishing you Safe travels and we hope to see you on another journey soon!