Spice Plantations of Kerala

Day 1

Arrive Kochi

Arrive Kochi, the most cosmopolitan city of Kerala. Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be met by our representative and escorted to your hotel for 2 nights stay.

Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Starting from the Dutch, Portuguese and the British, Kochi was the site of the first European colonial settlements in India.

Day 2

Day in Kochi

After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Kochi, visiting the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church and Chinese fishing nets.

This evening, watch a spectacular Kathakali performance. Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in India. It is a spectacular combination of drama, dance, music and ritual. Characters with vividly painted faces and elaborate costumes re-enact stories from the Hindu epics of Mahabharata and the Ramayana.

Day 3

Kochi to Munnar

This morning, embark on a scenic drive to Munnar, one of the most popular hill resorts of south India. Under the British Raj, Munnar was popularly called ‘Switzerland of India for its natural surroundings and cool climate. The entire area is occupied by thick forests and tea estates. The specialty of Munnar is jungle honey, tea and a rare flower ‘Neela Kurunji’ which blooms once in 12 years.

This afternoon, visit a local tea plantation and the Tata Tea Museum to learn about the cultivation and processing of a variety of Indian teas.

Day 4

Munnar to Periyar

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Periyar, the wildlife and spice plantation hub of Kerala. This afternoon, take a spice plantation tour and learn about the mystery and history of Indian spices. You also get the opportunity to shop for fragrant spices at a local market.

This evening, visit the Periyar Wildlife sanctuary, one of the finest elephant reserves of south India. Take a boat cruise on the serene Lake Periyar, spotting migratory birds and local wildlife around the lake.

Day 5

Periyar to Kochi

After breakfast drive to back to Kochi, where your tour ends.