Life of South: Roots & Routes

You will be greeted at Cochin International Airport by our representative before heading to Thrissur. After arrival, check in at Neelambari, a traditional homestead situated along the Karuvannur River. This property is built in classic Kerala architectural style, featuring a central building with a traditional performance space called a Koothambalam and a courtyard known as a Nalukettu. In the evening, take a guided walk through Arattupuzha, a peaceful village on the outskirts of Thrissur. For most of the year, the village maintains a relaxed pace, but it becomes lively during the annual temple festival in March or April. Enjoy walking by the river, through the fields, and along the winding village lanes. You can also try fishing, pottery, or meet local artisans as part of your village experience. Stay overnight at Neelambari.

Begin your day with a morning visit to Guruvayur, renowned for the ancient Sree Krishna Temple, often referred to as the Dwaraka of the South. This temple stands as one of Kerala’s most significant and frequented pilgrimage sites, attracting devotees from all over India. The main sanctum is believed to have been reconstructed in 1638 C.E. Entry is restricted to Hindus who must adhere to a traditional dress code. Inside, visitors can experience the temple’s spiritual ambiance, and occasionally enjoy cultural performances held at the nearby open-air theatre.

Next, head to the Punathur Kotta elephant camp, located close to the temple, where numerous elephants are kept as offerings made by devotees to the temple. After your visit, return to Neelambari. In the evening, enjoy cycling through the local villages; the area offers several excellent cycling routes. To the east, forest trails present varying levels of challenge for cycling enthusiasts, while to the west, scenic beach roads provide beautiful seaside rides. The dirt paths winding through vast paddy fields are especially enjoyable at sunset. Conclude your day with an overnight stay.

After breakfast, head to Pollachi and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Tamil Nadu. Historically called “Pozhilvaichi,” Pollachi signifies “the land of natural wealth and prosperity.” Your destination is the Banyan Tree Farmhouse, set within a sprawling 210-acre estate at the base of the Anamalai hills. This farm stay offers a glimpse into the peaceful and rustic lifestyle of South India’s countryside, surrounded by fresh air and lush greenery. In the evening, wander through charming nearby villages and enjoy a bullock-cart ride across the farmlands. Later, spend time conversing with your host before dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

After an early breakfast, set out on a Canter Safari through the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, a journey lasting around three hours. This reserve boasts one of Southern India’s densest populations of Gaur. The Nilgiri Tahr, the only wild goat species native to South India, inhabits the high-altitude rocky slopes and grasslands here. The area also supports a healthy group of 250 to 300 Lion-tailed macaques, along with other primate species. Arboreal mammals such as the Malabar giant squirrel and flying squirrel are notable residents. With approximately 273 species of both resident and migratory birds, the reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers. A naturalist will join your safari vehicle to provide insights into the landscape.

After the safari, check out and proceed to Dindigul, where you will check in at Cardamom House. This family homestay, established in 1966 by British doctor Chris Lucas and now managed by a local team, is nestled in untouched countryside at the foot of the Western Ghats. Enjoy views of tropical gardens filled with vibrant butterflies and birds, and look out over banana, coconut, and mango plantations in the distance. In the evening, you can take a walk through the village or simply relax at Cardamom House. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, complete your check-out and set off southward to the lively city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. On arrival, check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, embark on a guided exploration to experience the authentic spirit of this ancient Tamil city. Visit the expansive Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, a 17th-century palace renowned for its unique blend of Dravidian and Islamic architecture.

Stroll through narrow lanes lined with flower and banana vendors, interact with residents, observe traditional cow milking, and wander through bustling markets. With your guide, discover the city’s 5,000-year-old legends while sipping meter tea from a local stall. Pass by the region’s largest flower market, which handles up to 10 tons of blooms daily, especially the famous Madurai jasmine.

Continue to the iconic Meenakshi Temple and, in the evening, witness the night ritual where the bronze idol of Lord Shiva is ceremoniously taken to Parvati’s chamber. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, head to Kuttikkanam, making a stop at the Periyar Tiger Reserve for a boating experience. The boat ride on Periyar Lake offers a good opportunity to observe wildlife, as animals often visit the water’s edge to drink. You might spot groups of Gaur, Sambar deer, and wild boars grazing in the grasslands near the shore. Birdwatchers can look out for species like darters, egrets, and kingfishers perched on the dead tree trunks that rise above the lake’s surface. Continue your journey to Misty Mountain, which is set within a vast 600-acre estate. While much of the tea production uses modern methods, large sections of the estate still retain their old-world charm and atmosphere. Upon arrival, check in and spend the evening exploring the tea plantations. Overnight at the estate.

After breakfast, set out on a morning Jeep safari across the plantations, where you may catch a glimpse of the barking deer and recognize its distinct call. For us, true luxury lies in peace and fulfillment. Bird enthusiasts will also find the property to be a haven. In the afternoon, take part in a Tea tour at Misty Mountain, guiding you through the journey of tea-making—from the plucking of leaves to the factory process, right up to your cup. Overnight stay.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then check out and head east towards Kumarakom. On the way, visit a centuries-old plantation house, where you’ll savor an authentic Syriac Christian lunch and take a stroll through the owner’s lush plantations. This ancestral residence, dating back around 400 years, is set within a vibrant green estate. Continue your scenic drive to Kumarakom, a backwater village on the banks of the expansive Vembanad Lake, the largest in Kerala. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the evening relaxing by the backwaters. Overnight at the hotel.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. Around midday, board a traditional houseboat—modernized versions of the historic Kettuvallams, which were originally crafted to transport large quantities of rice and spices but now offer comfortable, floating accommodations. Cruise through the scenic Vembanad backwaters, passing along canals, islands, and the bird sanctuary, taking in the tranquil surroundings as you travel. Enjoy a delicious Keralan meal served on board. In the evening, disembark at Kumarakom and return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and set out for Vaikom Village, which is bordered by the scenic Vembanad Lake. Vaikom welcomes visitors with its tranquil waters and peaceful rural atmosphere. The best way to discover the backwaters, winding canals, and the daily rhythm of Vaikom’s small villages is by taking a canoe ride, an eco-friendly option that appeals to nature enthusiasts. Drifting along in a canoe lets you fully absorb the lush greenery and natural charm of the area.

In the pottery village, you can observe the fascinating process of shaping clay into pottery. A local fisherman will demonstrate traditional fishing techniques and share practical tips, showing how easily he casts his net and makes a catch. You’ll also get to see how coir is made, learn about each step, and try spinning coir yourself.

After exploring the village, continue your journey to Fort Kochi and check in at your hotel. In the evening, experience Kerala’s cultural heritage at Greenix Village Cultural Center by watching a Kathakali performance, a renowned dance drama known for its elaborate gestures, striking costumes, and intricate makeup. The stories performed are often drawn from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Spend the night at your hotel.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. Immerse yourself in authentic Cochin life on an ethnic tour, starting with the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets—large cantilevered structures that hang over the water, instantly recognizable as a symbol of Fort Kochi. Next, visit St. Francis CSI Church, India’s oldest European church, built in 1503 and once the burial site of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Pass by the impressive Santa Cruz Basilica, a landmark of the city.

Hop into a tuk-tuk, the preferred local transport, and head to Dhobi Khana, the traditional laundry station that now stands as a fading remnant of the past. Continue through the winding lanes of Mattancherry and arrive at the bustling fruit market on Palace Road, where locals shop for fresh, organic produce at great prices. Stop at the Spice Market, where the air is filled with the aromas of ginger, cloves, cardamom, turmeric, and pepper from the nearby warehouses. Pause for a cup of “meter tea” at a local stall.

You’ll also have the chance to meet a Brahmin family, members of the highest Hindu caste known for their roles as priests and scholars, traditionally performing rituals for weddings, births, and other significant events. Visit the Jewish Synagogue at the heart of Jew Town, a historic area once home to a thriving Jewish community, and conclude with a stop at the Dutch Palace, renowned for its 17th-century mural paintings.

The afternoon is free for you to explore the heritage streets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry at your own pace, perhaps taking a public ferry to downtown and back. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Time to bid farewell. After breakfast, proceed to Cochin International Airport for your return flight home.