Cultural tour: local guide
10 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
12 meals
included
Discover the essence of Southern India on this guided 11 day journey that flows from Kerala's tranquil coast to Tamil Nadu's temple. This enchanting region unfolds in a harmony of colour, culture and natural beauty, where time slows, aromas linger and every scene feels alive with a story.
Begin in coastal Cochin, where the rhythm of daily life beats in tune with the sea and the salty tang of the Arabian Ocean mingles with the heady scent of spices drifting from bustling markets. The Chinese fishing nets sway gracefully over the water, with colonial churches and vibrant streets showcasing a rich tapestry of history. As night falls, the electrifying gestures and painted faces of Kathakali dancers fill the air with colour, sound and drama with an evening performance.
From the coast, the road winds upward to Munnar, a highland paradise blanketed in endless tea gardens and mist laden valleys. The air is cool, crisp and fragrant with the scent of fresh tea leaves. Sunlight glimmers on dew kissed plantations, while the distant sound of cascading waterfalls punctuates the serene hush of the hills, revealing breathtaking views at every turn.
Further east, Madurai rises in a blaze of devotion, the towering temples are a riot of colour, their gopurams adorned with intricate carvings. The air vibrates with echoing chants, temple bells and the warm fragrance of incense, immersing you in the city's spiritual heartbeat.
In Thekkady, the wild heart of Kerala comes alive, as dense forests hum with bird calls, spice plantations perfume the air and elephants wander the landscape with quiet majesty. Finally, glide through Allepey's shimmering backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat, where the gentle sway of the water, the rustle of palms and the soft cries of birds create a superb finale to a journey that delights every sense.
TERRAIN
Day 4 - Tea Plantation Walk - This walk typically will last between 1 - 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace, 4-6km. This will be through tea gardens and rolling tea hills.
Day 8 - Jungle Trek in Periyar - This walk typically will last between 2.5 to 3 hours, 10-12km, at a leisurely pace. There is no steep climbing involved and the route is easy and gentle.
Your guide takes you from Cochin airport to your hotel (approximately1 hour). You have the rest of the day at leisure.
You stay at Brunton Boatyard Hotel.
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon
Safe
A restored Victorian shipyard set on the historic waterfront of Fort Kochi, Brunton Boatyard Hotel offers an elegant retreat infused with colonial charm. Overlooking the bustling harbour, it blends period architecture with modern comfort, perfectly placed for exploring Kochi’s spice-laden streets, vibrant markets, ancient churches and the famed Chinese fishing nets along the Arabian Sea.
On today's guided tour experience Cochin's storied past and coastal allure. Watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets sway gracefully over the waters of Fort Kochi, before stepping into centuries of history at St. Francis Church and the grand Santa Cruz Basilica. Explore the beautifully preserved Dutch Palace and the serene Jewish Synagogue. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the magic of a Kathakali dance performance, an enthralling display of colour, expression and rhythm that brings ancient stories of heroism, righteousness, conflicts and exile to life.
You stay at Brunton Boatyard Hotel.
PoolHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafe
A restored Victorian shipyard set on the historic waterfront of Fort Kochi, Brunton Boatyard Hotel offers an elegant retreat infused with colonial charm. Overlooking the bustling harbour, it blends period architecture with modern comfort, perfectly placed for exploring Kochi’s spice-laden streets, vibrant markets, ancient churches and the famed Chinese fishing nets along the Arabian Sea.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Munnar (approximately 4 hours), winding through lush countryside, and past spice scented plantations and cascading waterfalls that glimmer in the sunlight. As you ascend into the hills, the air turns cooler and the views more breathtaking with mist covered valleys and scenes of locals, bartering at roadside markets and going about their day. Arriving in Munnar, South India's largest tea-growing region, you'll be greeted with expansive views of vast rolling hills carpeted with fragrant and lush tea estates.
You stay at Spice Tree Hotel.
PoolHairdryerWiFiTVSafe
In the misty hills of Munnar, Spice Tree Hotel offers a serene hideaway surrounded by lush plantations and mountain vistas. Blending boutique elegance with warm hospitality, it provides a tranquil base for exploring tea estates, winding trails and the region’s cool, fragrant landscapes, perfect for a restorative escape into nature.
Begin your day with a serene Tea Plantation Walk through tea bushes, while learning about the process and history of the area, dating back to the 19th century. The emerald slopes of Munnar stretch endlessly, their neatly clipped hedges whispering stories of a bygone era and these rolling estates remain the heart of Munnar's charm. Journey onwards to Top Station viewpoint, perched 1,700 metres above sea level where sweeping views of the Western Ghats and Tamil Nadu's Theni Valley unfold like a painted panorama. Complete your exploration at the Tea Museum, where the aroma of fresh leaves mingles with tales of Munnar's tea heritage.
You stay at Spice Tree Hotel.
PoolHairdryerWiFiTVSafe
In the misty hills of Munnar, Spice Tree Hotel offers a serene hideaway surrounded by lush plantations and mountain vistas. Blending boutique elegance with warm hospitality, it provides a tranquil base for exploring tea estates, winding trails and the region’s cool, fragrant landscapes, perfect for a restorative escape into nature.
After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive from the misty hills of Munnar to the vibrant city of Madurai (approximately 4 hours). The journey winds through rolling landscapes, verdant valleys and quaint villages, offering glimpses of rural life along the way. Known as the Athens of the East, Madurai is over 2,500 years old with majestic temples, intricately carved monuments and bustling streets that celebrate art, culture and spirituality. Every corner tells a story, blending ancient traditions with a lively modern pulse, making the city both mystifying and mesmerizing for every visitor.
You stay at Heritage Madurai Hotel.
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Located in the heart of Madurai, Heritage Madurai Hotel offers a charming city retreat steeped in traditional Tamil culture. Combining elegant comfort with historic character, it is ideal for exploring the Meenakshi Temple, bustling markets and the vibrant streets, providing a welcoming base to experience the city’s rich heritage and timeless traditions.
Your local guide accompanies you to the iconic Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, famous for its Hall of Thousand Pillars, the heart and soul of Madurai. This magnificent twin temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati, showcases intricate carvings, towering gopurams and a spiritual atmosphere that has shaped Madurai for centuries. Next, step into history at the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak, where grand halls and delicate architecture hint at the city's royal past. As evening falls, witness the enchanting Going to Bed Ceremony at the Meenakshi Amman Temple, where 'Lord Shiva' is ceremoniously carried to rest with Parvati, a mesmerizing ritual blending devotion and tradition.
You stay at Heritage Madurai Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafe
Located in the heart of Madurai, Heritage Madurai Hotel offers a charming city retreat steeped in traditional Tamil culture. Combining elegant comfort with historic character, it is ideal for exploring the Meenakshi Temple, bustling markets and the vibrant streets, providing a welcoming base to experience the city’s rich heritage and timeless traditions.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thekkady (approximately 3.5 hours), nestled in the heart of Kerala's lush landscapes. Home to the Periyar National Park, Thekkady is a haven for wildlife, with elephants, bison and tigers - to name a few - gathering around the large reservoir. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided Spice Plantation Tour in the vibrant gardens, discovering the many spices - such as cardamom, cinnamon and nutmeg - that define this region, followed by a delicious lunch prepared by your hosts. As evening descends, be captivated by a Kalaripayattu performance, witnessing the agility, strength and artistry of Kerala's ancient martial art in a truly mesmorising experience.
You stay at Spice Village Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiMinibarSafe
Tea/coffee
Located amidst the lush greenery of Thekkady, Spice Village Hotel offers a tranquil retreat inspired by local tribal traditions. Surrounded by spice plantations and forested hills, it blends eco-friendly charm with modern comfort, ideally located for exploring Periyar National Park.
Set out on a jungle trek through the verdant Periyar forests, one of India's finest wildlife reserves. Winding trails meander through evergreen forests, marshy grasslands and picturesque plantations, offering glimpses of birds, butterflies and other wildlife like tigers and deer in their natural habitat. Later, unwind with a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake, where calm waters reflect the surrounding hills and where the skeletal remains of trees rise eerily from the surface. As the mists drift over the lake, the landscape takes on a mystical, almost primeval quality. Keep watch for elephants and other wildlife as they gather at the water's edge, making for an unforgettable experience.
You stay at Spice Village Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiMinibarSafeTea/coffee
Located amidst the lush greenery of Thekkady, Spice Village Hotel offers a tranquil retreat inspired by local tribal traditions. Surrounded by spice plantations and forested hills, it blends eco-friendly charm with modern comfort, ideally located for exploring Periyar National Park.
Leave Thekkady on a picturesque route to Kumarakom (approximately 3.5 hours), winding through lush hills, spice-scented plantations and quaint villages. The journey offers glimpses of rural Kerala, with farmers working in fields, cattle grazing in emerald fields, coconut palms swaying in the breeze and sparkling streams reflecting the sun. As you approach Kumarakom, the landscape opens to reveal the serene backwaters of Lake Vembanad, dotted with traditional boats and flocks of vibrant birds.
You stay at Coconut Lagoon Hotel.
ShopsPoolHairdryerWiFiAircon
Nestled on the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, Coconut Lagoon Hotel offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by coconut groves and tranquil waterways. Combining traditional Keralan architecture with modern comfort, it is perfectly placed for exploring the region’s lush, tropical landscapes, local villages and backwaters.
Your destination today is Alleppey (approximately 1 hour), famously known as the 'Venice of the East.' The drive meanders through verdant countryside and charming villages, with houseboats and fishermen on the waterways. On arrival, step aboard an iconic and traditional houseboat, once used for transporting rice, spices and goods. Glide through Alleppey's winding canals and backwaters, passing paddy fields and villages with swaying palms and stilted houses reflected in the calm waters. As night falls, relax on deck and soak in the serene beauty of this unique landscape.
Lunch and dinner included.
You stay at Spice Coast Cruises Houseboat.
Aircon
Drifting along Kerala’s picturesque backwaters, Spice Coast Cruises offers a unique houseboat experience blending comfort with traditional charm. Surrounded by palm lined canals, peaceful waters and vibrant village life, it provides an immersive way to explore the region’s lush landscapes, serene waterways and rich cultural heritage from the gentle luxury of your floating retreat.
We take you back to Cochin Airport (approximately 2 hours hours drive), and bid farewell to India with life long memories.
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing.
Single supplement from NZ$2123.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Cultural tour: local guide
10 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
12 meals
included
