Itinerary in brief:
- 2 nights Kochi
- 2 nights Kerala hills
- 2 night Kerala backwaters
- 2 nights Marari
Day 1: Arrive in Kochi
You will be met and transferred from the airport to your accommodation in the Fort Kochi area. You will check-in for 2 nights on a bed & breakfast basis.
This relaxed city is has a wealth of history – as a famous trading port it was the entry point for the Dutch, the Arabs, the Portuguese and the British to name but a few, so the architecture to be found is varied and interesting.
Day 2: Free day Fort Kochi
The Fort has a lovely feel to it, quite different to the other big Indian cities. Today you will tour the area, exploring the Chinese fishing nets, a 17th Century Jewish Synagogue, the St Francis Church to name but a few of the sights.
In the evening you have the opportunity to see a dance-drama that is typical to the area; with fantastic colour, music and costume a ‘kathakali’ performance is not to be missed.
Day 3: Kerala hills
Today you will drive into the hills of Kerala, where you’ll be spending two nights in an enchanting Plantation Homestay.
With green hills and tea gardens, the mist embracing exquisite trees, cascading waterfalls and mist clad hilltops, this is a place of astonishing natural beauty.
Day 4: Kerala hills
The homestay is set amidst plantations of vanilla, pepper, coffee and rubber. There is so much to see and do on the plantation that a full day at least is needed to sample the various delights!
You can also trek to nearby scenic spots; your hosts will help you to understand the area and how their daily life runs.
Day 5: Kerala backwaters
Your driver will today head towards the famous backwaters of the state; where life slows down!
Your accommodation is an old heritage home on Kerala's backwaters, a beautiful old building with a high gabled roof which comes down to low eaves, giving the verandas a cool shade through the day. The house is owned by a very hospitable young host who believes passionately in preserving his family's traditions and their lands.
Day 6: Kerala backwaters
Mornings here can be spent watching the toddy tappers climbing the tall trees, walks along the paddy fields, rowing through the narrow canals with a country boat. In the afternoon after a wonderful lunch you may feel like a siesta before waking up for a stroll along the river. Embrace the tranquillity and view the customs of the local people!
Day 7: Kerala backwaters to Marari
Today you will head to the picturesque fishing village of Marari.
Your homestay is tucked away behind village houses and thick groves and separated from the beach by a lick of tidal water and sand. Each cottage has its own sit-out enclosed by carved Kerala railing in wood, with the beach located a mere minute's walk away.
Day 8: Marari
Village life is traditional, as you will experience. The men go out fishing to earn a living, and bring home the daily catch. This is an idyllic retreat perfect if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Your hostess is also a popular cookery teacher, so take a class and learn more about cooking some delicious local dishes.
Day 9: Depart Kochi
Your final day involves a drive back to Kochi for your onward flight – sadly your Keralan Homestay experience has come to an end but if you’ve got the time and want to explore further please speak to your travel consultant who can help tailor a trip to perfect suit your needs.
