On arrival at Cochin, you’ll be met our representative who will escort you to your hotel. Accommodation will be held from 1400 hrs.

Evening, enjoy a mesmerizing Kathakali dance performance at a local theater—a dynamic and once exclusively male art form, renowned for its high-energy movements. This traditional dance brings stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana to life, portraying gods as larger-than-life figures. Vivid colors distinguish good from evil, while elaborate costumes set deities apart from mortals. Intricate facial expressions and hand gestures weave countless tales, making it worthwhile to witness the artists applying their makeup—a meticulous process using natural minerals and stones, free from chemicals.

Overnight in Cochin

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing of Cochin. Visit Mattancherry Dutch Palace (closed on Fridays) which was built by the Portuguese in 1555 and renovated by the Dutch in 1663. In the ancient rooms are 17th century murals that relate in vibrant color the story of the epic Ramayana. Visit a Jewish Synagogue (closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Jewish holidays) in Jew Town and Fort Cochin Area – Legend dates Jewish trade with Kerala from the times of King Solomon. Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European Church

 in India.

In the evening, return to Fort Cochin to witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets at the tip of the coast—an enduring symbol of centuries-old Chinese influence in Kerala.

Later, embark on a scenic drive to Periyar (also known as Thekkady), home to one of the world’s most captivating wildlife reserves. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary spans 777 sq km, with 360 sq km covered in dense evergreen forests. Renowned for its unique geomorphology, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking landscapes, the sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978.

Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.

Overnight stay in Periyar.

After breakfast, embark on a nature walk with a Naturalist, immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Next, take a guided tour of a nearby spice plantation, where various spices and aromatic plants are cultivated, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

In the afternoon, enjoy a serene boat cruise on Lake Periyar (1.5 hrs duration) within the National Park, home to herds of wild elephants, bison, deer, and an array of spectacular birdlife.

The rest of the day is at leisure—you may choose to unwind or indulge in spa facilities at the hotel (available on a direct payment basis).

Overnight stay in Periyar.

After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom and rest of the day is at leisure or you may enjoy backwaters.

Overnight in Kumarakom

In the late morning, take a boat ride to visit Philipkutty’s Residence, a traditional family home. Enjoy the serene surroundings, interact with the family, and participate in a traditional cooking class for an authentic culinary experience.

Overnight stay in Kumarakom.

After breakfast, head to the “Starting Point” (1200 hrs: check-in) and board your houseboat—your floating hotel for the next 24 hours.

Lunch on board.

Drift through the serene backwaters, where life unfolds along the canals—the lifeline of the local community. Watch as cargo boats ferry goods from the interiors, villagers commute between hamlets, and schoolchildren patrol the waterways. Glide past slow-moving boats with sails stitched from old sacks, laden with coconuts and shells.

Cruise through centuries-old waterways flanked by postcard-perfect towns and historic trading ports. Towering palms form a lush green canopy overhead, while jade-hued waters carry oared boats ferrying cycles, bearded Syrian Christian priests, newsboys, and fishwives with baskets of fresh catch. Along the shores, locals fish, swim, and wash clothes with the effortless grace that defines Kerala’s way of life.

Dinner and overnight stay onboard the houseboat.

After breakfast, disembark at Alleppey and drive to Cochin (02 hrs).

Board flight from Cochin to Mumbai (2h 10 m). Reach Mumbai and transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Mumbai

After breakfast, board a ferry from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island for a visit to the remarkable Elephanta Caves (Closed on Mondays). This 4-hour excursion highlights impressive rock art dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the 6th-7th centuries. Carved from solid basalt rock, the site’s standout is Cave-1, known for its intricate Brahmanical rock-cut architecture and grand relief sculptures.

Return to Mumbai Jetty and visit the Gateway of India, built in Indo-Saracenic style to honor King George V’s visit. Explore Mumbai’s green spaces amid the urban sprawl, including the Hanging Gardens. En route, pass landmarks like the Rajabai Clock Tower, featuring sixteen statues, and the Gothic-style Mumbai High Court. Drive past Chowpatty Beach and Marine Drive, famously known as the “Queen’s Necklace.”

Visit Mani Bhavan, now a museum, showcasing Gandhiji’s writings in multiple languages. Optionally, explore Khotachiwadi, a charming heritage village in the heart of Mumbai. Continue to the Haji Ali Dargah, a striking mosque set in the sea, followed by the Mahalaxmi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and beautifully positioned along the coastline.

Later in the evening, transfer to Mumbai International Airport for your onward journey.

End of Tour.