Kerala Tour Package with 4 Star Xandari Resorts

Day 1 - Arrive in Cochin

You will be met on arrival at Cochin International Airport and transferred by private chauffeur driven car to your hotel, which will take about 90 minutes.

The afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy the facilities of the Xandari Harbour hotel which offers a swimming pool and areas to unwind, or take a stroll in the nearby heritage area of Fort Kochi. In the evening you have an opportunity to enjoy an included motor boat sunset cruise around the harbour where you can take in the views of the city and see the famous Chinese fishing nets.

Accommodation: Xandari Harbour Hotel

Day 2 - Cochin

This morning your tour includes a visit to the Kumbalanghi Fishing Village where you will experience traditional village activities such as catching fish, crab farming and coir making. This is followed by a home-cooked lunch by the side of the beautiful backwaters.

In the afternoon, your sightseeing tour of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry includes visiting the Chinese fishing nets, the local fish market, St. Francis Church, the Jewish Synagogue and the Dutch Palace. Please be aware that the Jewish Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and other Jewish Holidays, and the Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays.

In the evening, a Kathakali Dance Show has been arranged. This is a traditional dance-drama of Kerala, performed in vibrant costumes. We suggest arriving early to watch the dancers apply their bold makeup.

Accommodation: Xandari Harbour Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 3 - Cochin to Periyar

After breakfast, your journey takes you inland on a scenic route to Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, a well-preserved area and home to a wide range of animals and birdlife. Halfway to Periyar, there will be a stop at a beautiful plantation bungalow, nestled among the rolling plantations of Kanjirappally. This is the perfect place to sample the best of authentic Keralan cooking, as made in traditional Syrian Christian homes.

After lunch, your journey continues to Periyar. You will arrive in time for an early evening spice plantation tour with a plantation expert. He will introduce you to the different spices grown in the area such as pepper, cardamom, vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and coffee.

Approximate travel time and distance: 4 hours, 150 km

Accommodation: Cardamom County Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 4 - Periyar National Park

This morning, your holiday includes an early morning nature trek in Periyar National Park with the tribal trackers, to try and spot a variety of wildlife. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the hotel swimming pool or spa, take part in activities such as saree dressing, visit the elephants or indulge in some retail therapy in the nearby town. 

In the evening, a boat ride on Lake Periyar has been arranged with another opportunity to try and see wild elephants, sambar deers, Indian bison, Nilgiri langurs and various species of bird.

Accommodation: Cardamom County Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Periyar to Alleppey

Your drive to Alleppey is a lovely scenic route through the rolling hills, visiting tea and rubber plantations en-route. The journey to the backwaters takes about 4 hours. Around lunchtime, you will board your private houseboat for an overnight cruise through the famous Kerala backwaters. For many people, this is the highlight of their holiday.

Your relaxing cruise will take you through the tranquil Kerala backwaters, gliding across Lake Vembanad, through canals and passing low lying rice fields, churches, temples, schools and village life. Lunch, evening tea and dinner will be served on-board the houseboat by your own exclusive crew. The houseboat anchors at sunset to prevent getting tangled in the fishing nets. Experience a truly magical moment of being rocked gently whilst counting stars before finally going to bed. 

Approximate travel time and distance: 3 - 4 hours, 130 km

Accommodation: Private Houseboat (The air conditioning in your deluxe houseboat will function from 20:00 until 06:00) 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 - Alleppey to Mararikulam

After a leisurely breakfast, you will disembark your houseboat at Alleppey boat jetty. You will be met by your driver and taken to Mararikulam Beach which is about 60 minutes away.

The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the tropical setting of the Xandari Pearl Resort.  

Approximate travel time and distance: 30 minutes, 15 km

Accommodation: Xandari Pearl Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Mararikulam

Today is a free day to do as you please and to enjoy your last full day in Kerala.

The Xandari Pearl offers a host of activities such as village tours or cooking and craft demonstrations. Alternatively, you can enjoy the spa and swimming pool facilities, take a walk along the beach, relax in a hammock or visit the near sites or towns for some last minute souvenir shopping.

Accommodation: Xandari Pearl Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Mararikulam to Cochin Departure

Your driver will pick you up and transfer you to Cochin International Airport in plenty of time for your return flight. 

This is a tailor-made tour so if you wish to extend your stay at the Xandari Pearl or if you would like to visit another destination please speak to your Authentic India Tours travel specialist.

Approximate travel time and distance: 1.5 hours, 70 km

Meals included: Breakfast