Kerala Colonial Cities & Backwaters

Arrive at Kochi Airport, where we welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. We allow time to settle in and freshen up before the evening. Later, we take you to a Kathakali performance – Kerala’s classical dance–drama with expressive movement, striking make–up and elaborate costumes that narrate ancient tales. After the show, we return to the hotel so you can rest for the days ahead.

After breakfast, we set out to explore Fort Kochi’s layered history and culture. We wander the atmospheric lanes where colonial-era architecture meets daily local life, then step inside Mattancherry Palace to see its remarkable mural panels. We pause at St Francis Church for a quiet moment before continuing along Jew Street, lined with antique shops, to the historic Jewish Synagogue. Later, we take a leisurely boat ride on Kochi’s backwaters, enjoying wide views of the city skyline and bustling harbour. As evening falls, we stroll through Kochi’s lively markets, where the scent of spices and the rhythm of local trade set the scene for the end of the day.

After breakfast in Kochi, we drive to Alleppey and board a traditional houseboat to begin cruising the tranquil backwaters. Settle in as we glide past rice paddies, coconut palms and small waterside villages, taking in everyday life along the canals.

A freshly prepared Kerala lunch is served on board, showcasing local ingredients and regional flavours. Keep an eye out for birdlife as we continue our unhurried journey through this scenic network of waterways.

As evening approaches, we watch the sunset over the backwaters, then enjoy dinner on board before turning in for the night, lulled by the gentle motion of the boat.

Awake to the gentle ripple of the backwaters and savour breakfast on board before we disembark in Alleppey and drive to Kovalam – around 160 kilometres, approximately 3 hours. On arrival we check in to your beach resort, and you have the afternoon at leisure to relax on the beach, dip your toes in the water or unwind with a book in the shade. You can also visit the Kovalam Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline.

We start with a relaxed breakfast in Kovalam. The day is yours to unwind on the beach – stretch out on the sand, take a gentle swim or simply enjoy the coastal calm at your own pace. If you prefer to explore, you can join an optional city tour of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) – Kerala’s capital – taking in Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kuthiramalika Palace (Puthenmalika), the Napier Museum and Sri Chitra Art Gallery, Attukal Temple, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple and the Kerala Government Secretariat.

We leave the day at leisure in Kovalam. You may book a rejuvenating spa treatment or a traditional Ayurvedic massage, then take a relaxed stroll along the shoreline at sunset. Spend a calm final evening by the sea before turning in for the night.

After a leisurely breakfast at your beach resort, we check out and bid farewell to Kovalam. We transfer you to Trivandrum airport – about 16 km away, a 30 minute drive – or to Kochi airport, according to your flight plans. Our representative will assist throughout to ensure a smooth departure.