Welcome to 'God’s Own Country', a stunning corner of India replete with lush tropical landscapes of backwaters and beaches, mountains and jungles, embellished by a patchwork of immensely picturesque paddy fields. The Best of Kerala tour absorbs all of this and much more and even includes a night on a houseboat.

DAY 1
Fly Jet Airways from Heathrow via Mumbai to Cochin.

DAY 2
Arrive in Cochin and transfer to The Trident (three star) or the Taj Malabar (four star) for two nights. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure before taking a fascinating walk through a local market where you will have the opportunity to purchase spices and vegetables followed by a cookery demonstration and dinner at a local home.

Next day, a morning city tour includes visits to the Dutch Palace, Jew Town, and St. Francis church, as well as a stroll around the historic Fort Cochin harbour area and a stop to view the immense Chinese fishing nets. Join a heritage walk in the afternoon and in the evening relax or take an optional visit to a traditional Kathakali dance show.

DAY 4
After breakfast you will drive to Periyar (115 miles, approx 6 hours). The very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. Here, in the crisp, cool air of the Western Ghats, you will enjoy the most enchanting experiences with the animals of the wild and the charming mountain people. Periyar is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India.

This afternoon you’ll visit a spice plantation and spice market and later experience 'Kalaripayttu' an ancient local martial-art. Stay at the three star Elephant Court or the four star Spice Village.

DAY 5
This morning enjoy an elephant ride before driving to Kumarakom (approx. 90 miles, 4½ hours). Board your Keralan houseboat. Known as a Kettuvallum, each thatch-roofed boat has been converted from an original cargo boat, complete with two or three bedrooms (you will share with other members of the group), airconditioning (available 9pm to 7am), en suite basin and wc, a separate kitchen and sit-out area.

A three strong crew cater for all your meals and peacefully glide your boat along the labyrinthine network of lakes and canals that dissect the lush paddy fields, coconut groves and the occasional rustic dwellings. Dinner and overnight on board.

DAY 6
In the morning disembark the houseboat to check in for two nights at the three star Eastend Lakesong or the four star Coconut Lagoon. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Next day enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic head massage (included in the tour), try yoga, meditation or one of the other rejuvenating massages (extra cost) or enjoy a number of optional recreational activities on Lake Vembanad.

DAY 8
Early morning transfer to Cochin for your Jet Airways flight to Heathrow via Mumbai arriving later the same day.


Guide • Your 'Best of Kerala' tour is escorted from arrival to departure by a local English speaking guide.

MEAL PLAN • Prices include breakfast throughout; 1 dinner in Cochin, breakfast, lunch and dinner on board the houseboat.

ACCOMMODATION • A choice of three or four star hotels.

GROUP SIZE • Maximum 14 passengers. MINIMUM NUMBERS • This tour is subject to a minimum number of passengers (please call for details).

GRATUITIES • Tipping is a way of life in India. • Porterage and tips for meals are included in your tour price. • We recommend tipping your driver and guide at the end of your holiday.

TRAVEL TIPS • The best time to visit Kerala is from Oct to Apr.

NB • Driving times are approximate. • Local conditions may necessitate slight variations to the timings of itineraries. • Check-in at hotels in India is after 12pm.