Colony, Backwaters & Beaches of Kerala

Day 1: Arrival in Cochin – Evening Kathakali Dance Show

Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey. Later in the evening, proceed to witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance, one of Kerala’s most renowned classical art forms known for its elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling. This cultural experience offers insight into Kerala’s rich performing arts heritage. After the show, return to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 2: Cochin City Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Cochin (Kochi), a historic port city with strong colonial influences. Visit Fort Kochi, known for its charming streets and colonial architecture. Continue to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, followed by a visit to the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace), showcasing murals and royal artifacts. Explore the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets along the coastline, a unique fishing technique still in use today. Later, stroll through the local markets and Jew Town, famous for antiques and spices. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 3: Cochin – Alleppey (55 km / approx. 1.5 hrs) – Houseboat Cruise

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East.” Upon arrival, board your traditional Kerala houseboat and begin a scenic cruise through the backwaters. As you glide through narrow canals, lagoons, and palm-fringed waterways, observe village life, paddy fields, and local activities along the banks. Enjoy freshly prepared lunch and dinner onboard, featuring authentic Kerala cuisine. Relax on the deck and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Spend a peaceful night onboard the houseboat. Overnight stay in houseboat.

Day 4: Alleppey – Marari / Kovalam (Marari: 15 km / 30 min | Kovalam: 160 km / approx. 4.5 hrs)

After breakfast onboard the houseboat, disembark and proceed to your beach destination. If staying in Marari, enjoy a short drive to a peaceful coastal village known for its unspoiled beaches and serene ambiance. Alternatively, drive to Kovalam, a popular beach destination near Trivandrum known for its crescent-shaped coastline and vibrant beach life. Upon arrival, check in at your beach resort and relax. The rest of the day is at leisure to unwind by the beach, enjoy the sea breeze, or explore nearby surroundings. Overnight stay at beach resort.

Day 5: Marari Relaxation / Kovalam – Trivandrum City Tour (15 km / approx. 30 min one way)

After breakfast at the resort, the day is free depending on your chosen beach stay. If staying in Marari, enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, take a walk along the shoreline, or opt for Ayurvedic treatments. If staying in Kovalam, proceed for a half-day excursion to Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram). Visit the famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (subject to entry rules), one of the richest temples in India. Continue to Napier Museum, Kuthiramalika Palace, and Sri Chitra Art Gallery, showcasing Kerala’s cultural heritage. Drive past Shankumugham Beach and Vizhinjam fishing harbor. Return to Kovalam in the evening. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 6: Marari / Kovalam Beach Leisure

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure to relax and rejuvenate. Spend your time soaking up the sun on the beach, swimming in the Arabian Sea, or indulging in optional activities like yoga or Ayurvedic wellness therapies. In Kovalam, you may explore Lighthouse Beach or enjoy local seafood at beachside cafes. In Marari, enjoy the tranquility and untouched beauty of the coastline. This day allows you to fully experience Kerala’s laid-back coastal lifestyle. Overnight stay at beach resort.

Day 7: Departure (Marari – Cochin: 60 km / 1.5 hrs | Kovalam – Trivandrum Airport: 15 km / 20 min)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and proceed to the airport for your onward journey. If staying in Marari, you will be transferred to Cochin Airport. If staying in Kovalam, transfer to Trivandrum Airport. The tour concludes with wonderful memories of Kerala’s backwaters, beaches, and cultural experiences. End of tour.

• Assistance on arrival at airport
• 6 Nights’ accommodation in selected category hotels/houseboat
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• All meals (lunch & dinner) during houseboat stay
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per itinerary
• English-speaking local guide during sightseeing as per program
• Monument entrance fees and Kathakali dance show tickets as mentioned
• Bottled drinking water in vehicle
• All applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 6 nights' accommodation 

Cochin x 2 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - Deluxe Houseboat
4* - Premium Houseboat
5* - Luxury Houseboat

Marari x 3 nights
3* - EL Oceano Beach Villas/ La Plage Marari
4* - Abad Turtle Beach Resort/ Marari Sands Beach Resort
5* - Xandari Pearl/ Marari Beach Resort

Or

Kovalam x 3 nights
3* - Harmonia Beach Resort/ Sagara Beach Resort
4* - Estuary Island Resort/Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel
5* - Vivanta by Taj - Green Cove/ The Leela Kovalam Beach

• Any international or domestic flight tickets
• Visa charges and travel insurance
• Camera/video fees at monuments
• Meals other than those mentioned in inclusions
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages, and telephone calls
• Optional activities such as Ayurveda treatments, water sports, etc.
• Early check-in and late check-out at hotels
• Any increase in taxes, fuel surcharges, or entrance fees
• Anything not mentioned under inclusions