Kerala with a Twist

You’ll be driven to the coast for this morning’s cycling tour of the local backwaters, admiring the beautiful countryside and witnessing the daily lives of those who live here. You’ll cycle through small fishing villages and past palm-lined beaches dotted with traditional boats, and see a number of coir producers who create rope and mats from the readily available coconut fibre. Meet some villagers at a riverside community before being driven back to your hotel. There will be time to freshen up before heading out with your local guide to explore Cochin on foot and by tuk-tuk. Stops will be made to admire the Chinese Fishing Nets, the Dutch Palace, synagogue and St Francis Church, with a suitably timed break for lunch at a local art cafe, for a glimpse of Cochin’s contemporary creative side.

Head inland towards the Western Ghat mountains and the region of Palakkad. Expect a friendly welcome at your homestay, where the rest of your day will be at leisure.

Your stay at Kandath Tharavad will be all about understanding life in this sleepy corner of Kerala. Today you can wander into the village for morning tea at the chai stall, try your hand at toddy tapping (collecting sweet sap for palm wine), cycle along countryside roads, or simply enjoy the serenity of your surroundings.

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll be driven to Wayanad, in the far north of Kerala. Once you’ve checked in, you’ll have time at leisure to relax and soak up the scenic views.

Rise early for your shared jeep safari into Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, spotting for wildlife as the park’s inhabitants noisily greet the new day. You’ll be back in time for breakfast, followed by a visit to the massive Edakkal Caves, where you can see intricate Neolithic imagery carved into the cave walls, and hear a few cave legends told by your expert local guide.

Head coastwards to Ayesha Manzil, where you’ll be warmly welcomed. The rest of your day will be at leisure, so you can relax and settle in.

Your hostess, Faiza, is a renowned Keralan chef, and today you will join with other guests to learn a few of her culinary secrets. Start by visiting the local market to purchase ingredients, and learn the spice combinations that define authentic Keralan cuisine. Head home to rustle up several dishes with Faiza on hand, before enjoying the fruits of your labour for lunch. A post-lunch doze may be in order – poolside is an ideal spot! Alternatively, your hosts will happily make suggestions for local exploration this afternoon.

After breakfast, you’ll be driven along the coast to a jetty on the Tejaswini River, where you’ll be welcomed aboard your private houseboat. As you set off at a leisurely pace along the palm-edged lakes and narrow canals, you’ll pass by lush little islands, small villages and painted temples. Disembark to explore, and see the fishing and coir production techniques that provide the main source of income in these parts. Weigh anchor in the middle of the river for the night, enjoying sunset drinks before dinner is served under the stars.

Enjoy a leisurely day on your houseboat, cruising through the tranquil backwaters. You’ll have the chance to disembark for a glimpse into local life; the rest of the time, simply relax and soak up the scenery from your private deck, perhaps tucking into seafood thali and homemade cakes which will be served on board.

After a goodbye breakfast on your houseboat, meet your driver for the journey to Neeleshwar, where you’ll check into your hotel and kick off your shoes for some serious R&R.;

Your day will be at leisure – it’s time to make the most of the beach and your hotel!

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.