Kochi (also known as Cochin) is spread across islands and promontories between the Arabian Sea and the Backwaters. It became the principal harbour for the Malabar Coasts spice trade and developed as a very multicultural location.

After breakfast depart on a full day guided city tour of Kochi visiting the Dutch Palace which has some of India’s most beautiful murals, the Jewish Synagogue in the heart of Jew Town and the cantilevered Chinese fishing nets. See St Francis Church where Vasco da Gama was originally buried and the Santa Cruz Church with its pastel coloured interior and carved wooden panels.

This evening attend a Kathakali Dance show - a classical Indian performance that tells stories of Hindu mythology through footwork and hand gestures with the dancers wearing intricate costumes and makeup. Overnight in Kochi.

Today depart Kochi and head for Munnar - a serene hill station known for its lush tea plantations, mist-covered hills, cool climate, and abundant biodiversity. Afternoon at leisure.

This evening attend a Kalaripayattu Show - a martial art that developed out of combat-techniques of the 11-12th century battlefield, with weapons and combative techniques that are unique to Kerala. Overnight in Munnar.

Tea has been an integral part in the history of Munnar. Today you will embark on a full day guided tour of Munnar. Visit the Tata Tea Museum which chronicles the history of tea in the area, a working tea plantation and Eravikulam National Park (subject to permission).  Ovenright in Munnar.

Today, journey through the verdant countryside adorned with emerald hill slopes and tea plantations to reach Thekkady, where accommodation is arranged for the night.

Thekkady, famed for its wildlife, sits in close proximity to Periyar National Park, also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve. Nestled in the scenic Western Ghats of Kerala, southern India, this park serves as a habitat for tigers, a substantial elephant population, along with rare species like lion-tailed macaques, sambar deer, leopards, and Indian bison.

Later in the day, embark on a boat excursion on Periyar Lake, offering the chance to witness herds of elephants or clusters of sambar deer along the shoreline. Keep an eye out for Gaur and wild boars grazing in the grasslands near the water's edge, and observe the diverse birdlife perched on dead tree trunks protruding from the lake.

This morning you will discover the world of spices with a visit to a local spice plantation. Gain an insight into the growing, harvesting and processing of spices and learn about the variety of spices cultivated here. Experience the aroma of the different fresh spices and discover the uses of these spices along with their significance in Kerala cuisine and in Ayurvedic medicine too.

Continue on to the market town of Alleppey - 'The Venice of the East' before embarking on a cruise of the Backwaters on a houseboat. The on-board chef offers traditional Kerala cuisine while you sit back in comfort and take in the breath-taking views of the lake remote villages and islands. Overnight on your houseboat.

Take breakfast on the houseboat while surrounded by wildlife before disembarking at your Backwater resort in Kumarakom. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax at the resort or indulge in some traditional Kerala Ayurvedic massage (supplement applies).

Transfer to Kochin for your onward flight or option to extend your holiday with a beach or Ayurveda Spa stay.

• Accommodation in selected category hotel with private facilities (1-night on houseboat in Allppey)
• Meet and assist at Kochin Airport
• Breakfast daily; all meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) onboard houseboat in Alleppey
• All sightseeing, excursions and transfers in air-conditioned vehicle (Innova or similar)
• Services of Local English speaking guide as per the itinerary
• Entrance fee at monuments (single visit) as listed in itinerary
• Kathakali Dance show in Cochin
• Tata Team Museum and Tea Plantation visit in Munnar
• Eravikulam National Park visit in Munnar (subject to permission)
• Boat ride at Periyar National Park and Spice Plantation Tour in Thekkady (including Forest Entrances)
• Mineral water available in vehicle during drives and sightseeing tours
• India government service tax
• 24/7 local operator support in India
• Assistance of local representatives
• India Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel

• International airfares
• Optional tours and excursions
• Meals othe than those specified
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Departure taxes
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above