Kerala Kaleidoscope

Upon reaching Cochin airport, you will be greeted by our staff and transferred to your hotel in Kochi. After checking in, enjoy a relaxed stroll through the heritage district and capture sunset photos at the Chinese Fishing Nets. In the evening, experience Kerala’s renowned dance drama, Kathakali, known for its expressive gestures, elaborate costumes, and intricate makeup, with stories drawn mainly from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. You will have opportunities to photograph both the makeup process and the performance. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Begin your morning with sunrise photography at Jew Street and Thopumpady Fish Harbour. After breakfast, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture of Cochin on a half-day guided ethnic tour. The journey starts at the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, whose massive cantilevered frames stretch over the water and are a signature sight of Fort Kochi.

Next, visit St. Francis CSI Church, the oldest European church in India, built in 1503 and once the burial site of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Pass by the impressive Santa Cruz Basilica before weaving through the narrow lanes of Mattancherry. Arrive at the bustling Fruit Market on Palace Road, where locals shop for fresh, organic produce at great prices. Take a break to enjoy a traditional one-meter tea at a local tea stall.

Continue to the Spice Market, where the air is filled with the rich aromas of ginger, cloves, cardamom, turmeric, and pepper from the nearby warehouses. Afterwards, explore the Dutch Palace, renowned for its exquisite 17th-century mural paintings. End your morning at the Jewish Synagogue in the heart of Jew Town, and browse for spices or local cotton goods as you wander the charming streets.

In the afternoon, head to Kumbalangi backwater village, home to over 100,000 residents including farmers, fishermen, coir spinners, and toddy tappers. Fishing is the primary livelihood here, with more than 100 Chinese fishing nets dotting the backwaters. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel.

After breakfast, set out for Munnar, a haven for nature enthusiasts, traveling through scenic landscapes dotted with rolling tea plantations. This charming hill station is renowned for its rich biodiversity and vibrant greenery. On the way, stop at Echo Point, famous for its unique echo effect and always bustling with visitors, and Mattupetty Dam, a popular spot surrounded by lush hills. At Echo Point, located around 600 feet above sea level, stroll amidst verdant surroundings. Continue to your hotel and check in. In the evening, capture the sunset at Anayirangal Dam viewpoint and among the tea gardens. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading out through scenic tea valleys and the Lockhart Gap to reach Suryanelli village. From there, embark on a Jeep ride along a rugged path to Kolukkumalai, the world’s highest organic tea estate, located on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats—an area renowned for its distinctive tea. Take in panoramic views of Meesapulimala, South India’s second tallest peak, and gaze across to the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. Afterward, tour the tea factory and enjoy a guided tea experience. Following the factory visit, savor a picnic lunch before returning. Along the way, witness the picturesque countryside and observe rural Tamil workers tending the tea fields. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, head to Kuttikkanam, stopping on the way for a boating experience at Periyar Tiger Reserve, where wildlife sightings are common as animals often visit the lake for water. You might catch glimpses of Gaur, Sambar deer, and wild boars grazing in the nearby grasslands. Birdwatchers can spot species like darters, egrets, and kingfishers perched on the dead tree trunks rising from the water. Continue your journey to Misty Mountain, set within a vast 600-acre estate that blends modern tea production with untouched, traditional landscapes. Upon arrival, check in, explore the plantations, and take advantage of the evening light for photography. Overnight stay

Begin your day with sunrise photography at nearby scenic spots. After breakfast, set out on a morning jeep safari through the plantations and awaken your inner naturalist. This safari offers a chance to immerse yourself in the remarkable biodiversity of the Western Ghats, traversing hills, valleys, and spectacular viewpoints. You’ll encounter abundant birdlife, untouched waterfalls, and plantations growing tea, spices, and a variety of fruits. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as the barking deer, and learn to identify its distinct calls. In the evening, seek out more photography opportunities at Panjalimedu or Parunthumpara View Point. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, check out and head to Alleppey. Upon arrival, settle into your backwater resort, a villa-style hotel set on the tranquil shores of Vembanad Lake. In the evening, set out to explore the nearby village and witness temple rituals, perfect for your photography expedition. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.

Begin your day by capturing stunning sunrise photos of the backwaters and the nearby village from your hotel. Participate in a morning yoga and meditation session to refresh your mind and body. By midday, step aboard a traditional houseboat to discover the charm of rural village life and the scenic backwaters, an enchanting network of canals, lakes, and inlets. Life here revolves around the water—residents travel, fish, swim, bathe, and even do their laundry right in the backwaters. People are so accustomed to the water that you’ll often see them chatting for hours while standing waist-deep. Vendors deliver goods by boat, and water transport is the main way to get around. Watch for the many water birds waiting patiently for their catch. Your journey takes you through the lush, green landscape of Kerala’s backwaters. Capture these vibrant moments as you cruise along. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch served on board. In the evening, disembark at Alleppey and return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Time to bid farewell. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kochi International Airport for your return flight home.