SOUTHERN INDIA UNVEILED

Today, after breakfast, begin by exploring Cochin’s heritage quarter, renowned for its fascinating colonial-era landmarks. To begin, visit St. Francis’ Church, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried, followed by the magnificent Santa Cruz Cathedral. From there, wander charming streets lined with galleries, boutiques, cafés, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. Next, continue to Mattancherry, where the historic Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue reveal Cochin’s multicultural heritage. Afterwards, explore the bustling spice bazaars, filled with enticing aromas and local character. As evening approaches, experience a captivating Kathakali performance, combining elaborate costumes, expressive makeup, rhythmic percussion, and dramatic storytelling. Finally, return to your hotel after an enriching day of culture and discovery.

After breakfast, depart for Thekkady, enjoying a scenic 4.5-hour drive through Kerala’s picturesque countryside. As you travel, admire lush landscapes, rural villages, and the region’s beautiful natural scenery. Upon arrival, settle into Shalimar Spice for a relaxing two-night stay. Thereafter, discover Thekkady’s aromatic plantations and gain fascinating insight into traditional spice cultivation. In particular, learn how cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, and turmeric are carefully grown. This afternoon, enjoy a guided walk through a fragrant spice plantation. Afterwards, return to your peaceful resort and relax before enjoying dinner at the hotel.

Hotel: Shalimar Spice for 2 nights

Begin the day with an early guided 2.5-hour walk through Periyar National Park as the forest awakens. As you venture deeper, listen for birdsong and watch for native wildlife among the trees. Along the way, you may encounter colourful hornbills, playful macaques, and impressive giant squirrels. Afterwards, return to your hotel for a well-earned breakfast. Following your morning adventure, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, perhaps relaxing amid peaceful surroundings. Finally, dinner will be served at your hotel this evening.

After breakfast, depart for Munnar, enjoying an approximately three-hour scenic drive through Kerala’s beautiful highlands. As you journey onwards, admire the changing landscapes and spectacular mountain scenery. Upon arrival, settle into Windermere Estate, a boutique retreat surrounded by tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations. This evening, join an expert naturalist for a guided plantation walk through forests and streams. As dusk falls, return to the estate for Windermere’s signature Boulder dining experience. To conclude the day, gather around the bonfire and enjoy a barbecue dinner beneath the estate’s iconic boulder.

Hotel: Windermere Estate for 3 nights

Discover the beauty of Kerala’s celebrated tea country on an immersive tea trail tour. To begin, explore lush plantations stretching across Munnar’s scenic hills. From there, visit the historic Lockhart Tea Factory & Museum and uncover the region’s fascinating tea heritage. As you explore, experienced local guides explain traditional cultivation methods and plantation life. Afterwards, enjoy an authentic guided tea tasting experience, discovering the distinctive character of local teas. Finally, witness the Orthodox tea-making process and learn to identify their unique flavours and aromas.

Begin your morning with a guided birdwatching trek through Windermere’s forests, home to more than 300 bird species. As you explore, listen for birdsong and discover the estate’s rich natural diversity. Afterwards, relax among lush gardens, fruit trees, hammocks, and picturesque picnic spots. Alternatively, visit the Vantage Point balcony for breathtaking views across tea and cardamom plantations. As the afternoon unfolds, enjoy further leisure at the estate. Later, dine at the historic High Range Club, established in 1905. Finally, savour classic cuisine amid elegant colonial surroundings, rich with timeless charm and heritage.

Head back to the lowlands towards Kerala’s serene backwaters, enjoying an approximately five-hour scenic drive. As you descend, watch the landscape gradually transform from misty highlands to lush tropical lowlands. Upon arrival, enjoy a late lunch before checking into Kumarakom Lake Resort. Set beside Vembanad Lake, this beautiful retreat offers a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. This afternoon, unwind at the resort or indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatment. As evening approaches, prepare for a memorable dining experience at the historic Ettukettu restaurant, housed within a beautifully restored royal mansion.

Hotel: Kumarakom Lake Resort for 3 nights

After a leisurely morning, journey to Philip Kutty’s Farm, a unique working farm situated below lake level. Upon arrival, explore sustainable farming methods with a knowledgeable family member. As you wander, discover plantations of coconut, spices, and bananas. Along the way, learn about traditional fishing techniques for giant prawns and scampi within the farm’s canals. Afterwards, spend time with your hostess preparing authentic Kerala delicacies. Finally, enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch before returning to your hotel. Once back, the remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at leisure.

This morning, enjoy a hands-on pottery workshop and discover the traditional art of shaping clay. To begin, learn simple techniques before creating your own unique pieces. As the workshop unfolds, enjoy the satisfying process of transforming raw clay into beautiful creations. Afterwards, spend the afternoon relaxing at your leisure. As the evening approaches, immerse yourself in Kerala’s vibrant cultural heritage at Kumarakom Lake Resort. Thereafter, experience captivating classical dance performances accompanied by soulful live music. Ultimately, enjoy a memorable celebration of Kerala’s artistic traditions and cultural spirit.

Today, travel a short distance to Kerala’s beautiful Malabar Coast and discover the tranquil Xandari Pearl. Upon arrival, settle into this peaceful beachfront retreat, surrounded by coconut palms and lush tropical gardens. Once settled, spend the remainder of the day at leisure. For example, relax beside the pool, unwind among the gardens, or simply laze on the beach. Alternatively, enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea. As evening falls, venture out for dinner at a local restaurant. Finally, savour the flavours of Kerala’s coastal cuisine and reflect on your day by the coast.

Hotel: Xandari Pearl for 2 nights

Today, explore Xandari Pearl’s expansive 18-acre organic farm, showcasing Kerala’s rich agricultural traditions. To begin, wander through paddy fields, banana groves, tropical fruit trees, and regional vegetable gardens. As you explore, discover the resort’s small dairy farm and sustainable farming practices. Along the way, your guide will provide fascinating insights into traditional cultivation methods and environmentally conscious techniques. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch prepared using fresh garden produce and ingredients from nearby farms. Finally, celebrate Kerala’s seasonal flavours, local ingredients, and enduring agricultural heritage through this authentic culinary experience.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before a scenic 45-minute drive to Alleppey. Upon arrival, board your houseboat at noon and cruise through Kerala’s enchanting backwaters. As you drift along, pass villages, canals, and waterways while observing everyday life along the shores. Along the way, watch local fishing, bathing, and traditional activities unfold around you. Meanwhile, savour a delicious traditional Keralan lunch onboard. Afterwards, return to land and continue to Ernakulam for an early dinner. Finally, board the overnight Duronto Express to Goa, travelling First Class in private compartments with bedding provided.

Train: Duronto Express for 1 night

Arrive at Madgaon railway station and transfer approximately 20 minutes to The Taj Exotica Resort & Spa. Upon arrival, settle into this luxurious beachfront retreat in South Goa. As you explore, discover 56 acres of landscaped gardens, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, and spacious rooms and villas. In addition, enjoy direct access to a pristine white-sand beach and extensive leisure facilities. For the remainder of the day, relax beside the pool, explore the gardens, or unwind by the sea. As evening approaches, return to the resort and enjoy a delicious dinner, bringing your first day in Goa to a relaxing close.

Train: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa for 3 nights

Discover the Portuguese heritage of Old Goa, beginning with its magnificent historic churches. To begin, visit Sé Cathedral and the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Here, admire the preserved remains of Saint Francis Xavier and appreciate the area’s remarkable religious heritage. Next, continue to Loutolim and visit Figueiredo House, one of Goa’s historic Portuguese residences. During a guided tour, discover its fascinating architecture, history, and traditions. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to your resort. In the evening enjoy an authentic local dinner.

Today is free to enjoy Goa’s relaxed atmosphere and make the most of your final day. To begin, unwind on the beach or simply enjoy the resort’s tranquil surroundings. Alternatively, indulge in the resort’s renowned Ayurvedic spa for a rejuvenating experience. For something more active, enjoy a round of golf on the nine-hole course. Otherwise, relax beside the pool and savour the peaceful setting. As evening approaches, gather for a special farewell dinner at your hotel. Finally, celebrate the conclusion of your unforgettable Southern India Unveiled tour.

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace, with time to relax and make the most of your final hours in Goa. Later in the afternoon, transfer to Goa International Airport, approximately one hour away, for your international flight to Perth. As your Southern India Unveiled journey draws to a close, settle back and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of Kerala and Goa. Finally, arrive in Perth on Day 18, where your drivers will be waiting to transfer you home.