5-Nights Captivating Kerala from $1,550

Trafalgar

OFFER ID 1494519

Captivating Kerala
Leave the world behind and connect with the enchanting sounds of nature in Kerala. Savor its lingering aroma of spices, the gentle lapping of its backwaters and its vivid colors at every turn.

Dining Summary

1 Welcome Reception (WR)
5 Breakfast (B)
3 Dinner (D)
1 Lunch (L)
1 Be My Guest (BMG)

Be My Guest

Kochi: Visit and have dinner with a local family in their home in Kochi and gain a fascinating insight into their lifestyle.

Dive Into Culture

Periyar National Park: See an Indian martial arts performance.
Kumarakom: Discover rural life on a walking tour with a local market visit.
Kochi: See the unique Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.

Iconic Experience

: Join a Local Specialist on a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park.
Kumily: Learn about time-tested customs and the cultural significance of spice cultivation during your visit to Kumily Spice Garden.
Kerala Backwater Day Tours: Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional houseboat. Get an insider's look at the day-to-day activities of locals as you journey along Kerala's waterways.

Must-see Highlights

Explore Kochi
Visit Kumily Spice Garden and St. Francis Church in Kochi
Scenic Cruise the Kerala Backwaters on a houseboat

Whats Included

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

5 nights from $1,550 per person

Itinerary

Trafalgar Tours: Captivating Kerala

Day 1 - Welcome to Kochi, Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala
On arrival to Kochi Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The bountiful backwaters of Kerala, ‘God’s own country’, welcome you. This slice of southern India is a lush garden filled with spices, brilliant colors and the enchanting sounds of nature. Relax on the tranquil shores of the Arabian Sea and let the freshest seafood melt in your mouth as you sink into a more straightforward way of life – one where nature sets the pace for the day. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception with local appetizers.
Accommodations: Le Meridien Kochi
Meals: Welcome Reception

Day 2 - Nature and Relaxation in Periyar Dive Into Culture
Your love affair with Kerala’s lush landscapes begins today. Head to Periyar, named after Kerala’s longest river which winds its way deep through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, your first stop. You may wish to spend the afternoon soaking up the sounds of nature during an immersive Nature Walk with a Local Specialist. Tread lightly along the dense forest trails as you learn about the endemic flora and fauna. Banyan, Teak and Bamboo trees provide a serene backdrop for a lesson in Kerala wildlife. You may be lucky enough to see herds of wild elephant and bison seeking to quench their thirst along the quiet shores of Periyar Lake. Keep a keen eye out for hornbills, flycatchers and kites – some of the many species of local and migratory birds that flock to this pristine sanctuary. With your soul soothed after connecting with nature, head to your hotel to freshen up before an exhilarating Dive Into Culture Kalarippayattu performance. Watch as trained Kalari warriors show off this most ancient of martial arts, jumping and somersaulting in the ultimate coordination between mind and body. After a day of adventure, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Accommodations: Elephant Court
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 - Onwards to Kumarakom Dive Into Culture
The intoxicating scents of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves linger long after today’s encounter with Kerala’s famous spices. Your first stop today is a visit to Kumily Spice Garden. Here you’ll learn how the locals grow and share an astounding variety of flavourful spices, ranging from pepper and ginger to vanilla and cardamom, the 'Queen of Spices'. Gain in-depth insights into the process of spice cultivation and discover how Kerala’s international spice trade has shaped its culture and heritage. There’s more to experience as you head to Kumarakom, a tranquil village set on the peaceful banks of Lake Vembanad, the largest lake in Kerala. Embark on a walking tour and Dive Into Culture as you admire the vibrant day-to-day of village life in the regional market and lively streets.
Accommodations: Rhythm Kumarakom
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 - Cruise the Calm Backwaters
Kerala’s intrinsic relationship with water takes center stage today. Enjoy a leisurely start, then board a traditional houseboat for a cruise surrounded by Kerala’s iconic backwaters. Take a deep breath and enjoy the slow, sultry pace of life fringing the narrow canals as you wind your way to Alleppey. Watch villagers wave to each other from their wooden Shikaras (traditional boats), and see how life unfolds along the palm-fringed shoreline. Even your ride for the day is rooted in history. These houseboats, known locally as Kettuvalloms, were formerly old barges used to ferry rice and spices. Upon arriving in Alleppey, disembark and return to Kumarakom for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Accommodations: Rhythm Kumarakom
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 - Explore Multi-Cultural Kochi Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals
The remnants of Kerala's colorful, centuries-old trading history are best explored in the old port city of Kochi. It was here that Chinese, Arab and European merchants came to buy the fragrant spices that found their way to tables all over the world. In turn, they left their mark on Kochi's architecture, cuisine and traditions. Colonial bungalows, Catholic churches, mosques and a European fort season the cityscape that was once known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Enjoy time for lunch before embarking on a city tour to see first-hand this multicultural center, including views of the Mattancherry Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church, built by Portuguese traders. Visit the Fort Kochi area and see traditional cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, unique to this part of Kerala. See how these fixed land installations made on bamboo scaffolding are artfully lowered into the sea to catch the seafood for which Kochi is famous. This evening, Connect With Locals and enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local family followed by a delicious Be My Guest Farewell Dinner.
Accommodations: Le Meridien Kochi
Meals: Breakfast, Be My Guest

Day 6 - Farewell Kochi
Your epic encounter with Kerala’s culture and natural wonders has come to an end, but your memories will last a lifetime. Say farewell to your travel companions and take an airport transfer for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast

Featured Destinations

Kerala

With the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 m in the east and networked by forty four rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate. A long shoreline with serene beaches. Tranquil streches of emerald backwaters. Lush hill stations and exotic wildlife. Waterfalls. Sprawling plantations and paddy fields. Ayurvedic health holidays. Enchanting art forms. Magical festivals. Historic and cultural monuments. An exotic cuisine... All of which offer you a unique experience. And what's more, every one of these charming destinations is only a two hour drive from the other. A singular advantage no other destination offers.

Excursions

HALF DAY MUSUEMS OF KERALA

Departing the pier by motor coach, drive through to the commercial capital of the Kerala state, Ernakulam and along Mahatma Gandhi Road, which is the main thoroughfare with colorful markets, shops and temples.

Indo Portuguse museum currently houses some outstanding collections and is well known for its artistic and architectural marvels, which bear the mark of strong Portuguese influence. Some of these include a piece of the altar made in teak wood

Portugal with six ships bearing five friars and a group of settlers, Alfonzo de Albuquerque founded the town. He also built the first European church in India. Fort Cochin is renowned for its fishing nets, Parade Ground, David Hall and St. Francis Church. Stop here to take photographs and see their catch of the day.

Your nest stop will be at the Folklore Museum. Today have the pleasure of exploring this museum with the local guide. Kerala Folklore museum, the only museum in Kerala with essence of the life and culture of common man. There are around 4000 artifacts from tiny to large size on display in this museum. To name a few are wood and bronze sculptures, ancient terracotta, stone age objects, jeweler, paintings, oil lamps, musical instruments tribal and folk art and much more.

Return to pier.

TIMING ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST DISTANCE & TERRAIN W/C FRIENDLY

00h00 – 00h30 Pier to Fort Cochin This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues

00h30 – 01h00 Visit Portuguese Museum 50 meters / Uneven/ 2 steps

01h00 – 02h00 Walk through Fort Cochin, Parade Ground, David Hall, St. Francis Church & Chinese fishing nets 500 meters / Flat / no steps

02h00 – 02h30 Depart from Fort Cochin to Folklore Museum

02h30 – 03h30 Visit Folklore Museum 200 meters / Flat / 5 steps

03h30 – 04h00 Return to pier

Kumarakom

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Kochi

Kochi has beautiful lagoons and lakes and offers travelers an extraordinary setting for a stay of a few nights.

Excursions

HALF DAY EXPLORING OLD KOCHI

Leave from pier for a panoramic drive along Mahatma Gandhi Road ending with a stop at the local market, known as the Broadway. A walk through, this local market in the new town of Ernakulum, is an enriching experience. A surprise lurks at every corner and whether you like it or not, you are propelled forward in a sea of people, brightly coloured baubles and warm, comforting smells.

Photo stop at Shiva Temple.

St. George's Forane Church, locally known as Edapally Church is a Catholic pilgrimage church in Edapally Kochi, India. Asia's largest shrine to Saint George, about five million people visit it every year.
The church is thought to have been founded in 593 AD. It is regarded as one of the oldest churches in Kerala, after the seven churches founded by Thomas the Apostle in the first century AD. The church was originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Marth Mariam). In 1080, a new church was built adjacent to the old church. A nine-day festival is celebrated annually as part of the Feast of Saint George. The church, also a destination for non-Christians, attracts offerings of gold, chicken, and eggs.
Gaze at the ancient Chinese fishing nets that line the shores of Fort Cochin.

You’ll be fascinated by the Dhobi Khana, your next stop. Each morning washing from all over Kochi is brought here to be soaped, soaked, boiled, beaten, and thrashed. Stop here for photos that you’ll never be able to duplicate anywhere else.

TIMING ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST TERRAIN W/C FRIENDLY

00h00 – 00h30 Depart the pier for panoramic tour of Ernakulum This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues

00h30 – 00h55 Photo Stop at Shiva Temple 10 meters / Flat

00h55 – 02h10 Drive through Marine drive and stop for a walk through the Broadway Market 300 meters / Flat

02h10 – 02h30 Depart for Edappally Church

02h30 – 03h10 Visit Edappally Church 50 meters / Flat / 02 steps

03h10 – 04h20 Proceed to Chinese fishing net and visit

04h20 – 05h30 Later drive to Drive to Dhobi Khana and visit. Back to port

HALF DAY HERITAGE TRAIL - A WALK THROUGH KOCHI

The best way to discover a new place is on foot; explore the streets of historic Fort Cochin and learn more about this town that is brimming with tales of maritime traders, who made Cochin the first European township in India.

A brief stop will be made at the Chinese fishing nets & St. Francis Church one of the area’s famous landmarks. These nets are set up on bamboo poles and held horizontally by huge mechanisms, which lower them into the sea. This is a unique symbol of the centuries-old influence on this coastline.

Princess Street is one of the oldest streets in Fort Kochi. The bungalows built in the European style and the other buildings of colonial architecture lining both sides of the street make it pretty as a picture.

The buildings here, with bronze stucco walls and peeling plaster, house antique stores, cigar shops, provisional stores, curio shops, kiosks, cafes, restaurants, art galleries and so on. Some are being used as homestays for tourists.

For the best view of the street, head for the Loafer’s Corner, a popular meeting place at the confluence of Princess Street, Peter Celli Street and Bastion Street.

The plain, squat walls that surround the two-storey Mattancherry or “Dutch Palace”, do not offer a particularly appealing invitation, but you will be delighted once inside. Its wooden interior is decorated with a remarkable series of murals. In the royal bedroom alone are 45 paintings illustrating the Ramayana every inch of space covered with rich colour, and painstaking detail. There is also an interesting collection of Dutch maps of old Kochi, coronation robes belonging to the maharajas, royal palanquins, weapons and furniture.

Next. The Jew Town surrounding area called Jew Town is a fascinating mix of antique shops, warehouses, and spice auction rooms. Signs for N.X. Jacob’s tailor shop, and the offices of J.E. Cohen serve as reminders of a once thriving community now consisting of about seven families. You’ll have a chance to stroll here before returning to your ship.

Return back to pier

TIMING ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST TERRAIN W/C FRIENDLY

00h00 – 00h30 Depart the pier to Fort Cochin This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues

00h30 – 02h00 Visit Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church
695 meters / Flat/4

02h00 – 02h30 Walk through princess street and loafer’s corner 300 meters / Uneven

02h30 – 03h00 Drive to Mattancherry

03h00 – 03h30 Visit Dutch Palace 200 meter/20 steps

03h30 – 04h00 Leisure time in Jew town

04h00 – 04h30 Return back to pier 50 meters / Flat

Kochi, Shore Excursion - 4 hours

You will be met at the pier. (Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure)
Once you disembark from your cruise-liner, you will meet your guide in the arrival hall. He will escort you to your waiting vehicle and together you will head to the historic town of Mattancherry. The Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presented to the Raja of Kochi in exchange for trading rights. The palace is two stories high and is built in the traditional Kerala style of “nalukattu” (four buildings around a central courtyard). Made of richly-carved wood, there are beautiful murals on display here depicting scenes from the Hindu epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata and some of the Hindu legends. The Palace also houses Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal Palanquins, coronation robes of former Maharajas of Kochi as well as period furniture.

You will next visit the Jewish Synagogue. One of the oldest in India, it is set in the Jewish Quarter, commonly known as “Jew Town”. The area is famous for its aromatic spice market and its antique shops. The interior of the Synagogue is decorated with 18^th century blue ceramic Cantonese tiles, hand painted and each one different!

You will end your tour at the Chinese Fishing Nets, which were first erected between 1350 and 1450 AD indicating trading ties with China.

You will stop for lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the port to board your ship.

Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee, Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes

Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified), Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted separately.

* Terms and conditions apply

Kochi, Shore Excursion - 8 hours

Meet at the port of Kochi -KERALA
(Excursion timings will be subject to the ship's arrival and departure)

KOCHI: 8HRS

Disembark from the ship and meet your personal guide on the pier.

You will drive to the historic Fort Kochi area where you walk in the area known as “Jew Town”.

You will visit the Mattancherry Palace, which was commissioned by the Portuguese for the Raja of Kochi in exchange for trading rights. The palace is two storeys’s high and is built in the traditional Kerala style known as “nalukattu” (four buildings around a central courtyard). Made of wood and richly carved, the palace exhibits memorabilia from the Raja of Kochi’s collection, but it is best known for its outstanding murals painted on the walls. Fast fading, one can still see some of these excellent 16^th century paintings illustrating episodes from the great Indian epic – The Ramayana.

Surrounding the Synagogue are a jumble of antique and spice shops, and souvenir shop and it is a fun area to wander at leisure.

You will have time to explore the Heritage Zone, which with its varied architectural styles highlights Cochin’s history of being occupied by various foreign rulers. In this area, which is protected, is St Francis’ Church, first established by the Portuguese in the 1500s. This is one of the earliest European churches in the country. The simple façade served as the prototype for future churches here. Vasco Da Gama was buried here in 1524 before his body was taken to Portugal 14 years later. You will also visit the Santa Cruz Cathedral which was built in the late 19^th century and has impressive murals on its ceiling. The walking tour ends at the Chinese Fishing Nets, which were first erected between 1350 and 1450 indicating trading ties with China.

You will stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon you drive to the Folklore Museum. This Museum has an exceptional collection of private artifacts from all over the South and interestingly has a theatre attached as an added attraction. The collection includes masks, beautifully carved old wooden doors, musical instruments, lamps and tribal jewelry. You will also have the opportunity to watch a private performance of the classical Kathakali dance.

Early evening you will return to the ship.

Inclusions:
Private chauffeur driven air conditioned vehicle, Private guide, Complimentary Soft beverages and Bottled water in the car, Monument entrance and still camera fee,Meet and Assist at all airports and hotels, Porterage at airports, All currently applicable taxes

Exclusions:
Expenses of any personal nature (laundry,telephone calls etc, unless specified) Tipping at hotels and to guides/escorts (unless specified), Meals (unless specified) Any insurance or Visa, Any hike in monument entrances fee or revision in government taxes, Air fare is quoted seperately.

*Terms and conditions apply

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

11/02/2024 - 11/07/2024

from $1,550 per person *

11/15/2024 - 11/20/2024

from $1,550 per person *

11/30/2024 - 12/05/2024

from $1,550 per person *

12/14/2024 - 12/19/2024

from $1,925 per person

01/01/2025 - 01/06/2025

from $1,950 per person

01/08/2025 - 01/13/2025

from $1,675 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $1,550 per person

Length

5 Nights

Air City

Call for airfares from your city.

Vacation Rating

Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.

Remarks

Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change. Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1494519

Reference this number when contacting our agency so we may better serve you. Also keeping this number handy will allow you to locate this document again quickly.

EJS Travel LLC

(616) 214-8995

TIMING	ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST	DISTANCE & TERRAIN	W/C FRIENDLY
00h00 – 00h30	Pier to Fort Cochin		This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues
00h30 – 01h00	Visit Portuguese Museum	50 meters / Uneven/ 2 steps
01h00 – 02h00	Walk through Fort Cochin, Parade Ground, David Hall, St. Francis Church & Chinese fishing nets	500 meters / Flat / no steps
02h00 – 02h30	Depart from Fort Cochin to Folklore Museum
02h30 – 03h30	Visit Folklore Museum	200 meters / Flat / 5 steps
03h30 – 04h00	Return to pier

TIMING	ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST	TERRAIN	W/C FRIENDLY
00h00 – 00h30	Depart the pier for panoramic tour of Ernakulum		This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues
00h30 – 00h55	Photo Stop at Shiva Temple	10 meters / Flat
00h55 – 02h10	Drive through Marine drive and stop for a walk through the Broadway Market	300 meters / Flat
02h10 – 02h30	Depart for Edappally Church
02h30 – 03h10	Visit Edappally Church	50 meters / Flat / 02 steps
03h10 – 04h20	Proceed to Chinese fishing net and visit
04h20 – 05h30	Later drive to Drive to Dhobi Khana and visit. Back to port