10 Nights From £1630.00 per person, 2 sharing
Summary
The cuisine of Kerala like the culture has evolved over time, since coconuts are abundantly available they are inevitably the main ingredient in many dishes and proximity to the sea makes sea food very prominent. Spices are grown in abundance and the hills of Kerala produce pepper, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon, all of which go into the flavours of the local food. This tour offers the opportunity to discover both the culinary and cultural history of the area.
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Cochin is the perfect way to start your holiday in Kerala. Your personal driver will meet you from the airport and transfer you to Cochin where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the culture by exploring the ancient town and enjoying a relaxing sunset cruise around the harbour. Once rested, you will be spoilt for choice with how to spend your first full day; experience traditional cooking demonstrations, visit local shopping areas and end the day with a wonderful Kathakali dance show.
Day 3-4: From Cochin you will be driven to Thekkady, tucked between the towering Western Ghats and the Savannah grasslands this is home of the stunning Periyar Wildlife Park. Enjoy a boat ride on stunning Lake Periyar, visit spice plantations and participate in a cooking lesson using the ingredients you have seen growing.
Day 5-6: From Thekkady proceed to Nedumudy Boat Jetty and embark on a cruise through the glorious maze of backwaters on board a houseboat (known as Kettuvallam). Lunch is provided on board and the cruise ends at Kumarakom which is known as one of the most beautiful villages in the world. Here you will be introduced to more delicious traditional cuisine and have time to indulge in some relaxation – perhaps even an Ayurveda massage.
Day 7: Your next visit will be to Marari, a stunning beach location with sun soaked sands and coconut trees. Here you can hire bicycles to explore and admire the beautiful scenery and participate in more cooking demonstrations, this time with seafood as the key ingredient.
Day 8-9: Head north to Thalassery by train to experience more wonderful beaches, superb local fish markets and much more. Here you can see more traditional dishes being prepared, again with a strong influence of fish due to the coastal location. From here follow the coast back south to Calicut to see some awe inspiring historical and cultural sights.
Day 10: Return to Cochin for an overnight stay ready for your flight home tomorrow. Alternatively you can choose to extend your stay and we would be happy to discuss the options with you.
