DAY 1
Arrive in Kochi
Welcome to Kochi (formerly known as Cochin), also called Ernakulam—the commercial capital of Kerala. The name Ernakulam is believed to have originated from the Tamil word “Erayanarkulam,” meaning “Lord Shiva’s abode.”
Upon arrival at Kochi Airport, our representative will meet and greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure as you settle into your new space.
Your stay in Kochi will be at Chittoor Kottaram, a magnificent mansion and a single-key hotel—meaning you are the only guests. This 300-year-old royal residence of the Rajah of Cochin has been elegantly restored into a splendid retreat. The warm and attentive staff is committed to offering you bespoke luxury, complete exclusivity, and a sense of deep calm as you breathe in the crisp air of Kerala’s serene backwaters.
DAY 2
Kochi
As you embrace a new morning in Kochi, we begin exploring this eclectic city with a tuk-tuk ride through Willingdon Island and the historic quarters of Old Kochi—Fort Kochi and Mattancherry—charming areas dotted with tiled roofs and pastel-coloured buildings. Kochi boasts one of the finest natural harbours in India, set amidst picturesque lagoons and world-famous backwaters. Enjoy the gentle breeze drifting through a romantic landscape of swaying coconut and palm trees.
Catch a glimpse of the iconic Chinese fishing nets and immerse yourself in Kochi’s vibrant commerce by stopping at any of the many shops selling tea, jute, chillies, turmeric, cashews, ginger, cardamom, and pepper.
Your tour includes visits to the Dutch Palace, the Jewish Synagogue built in 1568, and St. Francis Church— the oldest church built by Europeans in India.
In the evening, enjoy Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala known for its discipline, agility, and focus. Practised both for defence and physical well-being, Kalaripayattu enhances stamina, releases emotional stress, provides deep relaxation, and nurtures heightened mental awareness.
DAY 3
Kochi
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This morning is at leisure.
Optional Activity: Kochi by cycle
Cycling through the picturesque seaside town of Fort Kochi, and witness the city start towake up and stir. Join the locals for a hot brimming cup of tea as they start with their day, where you get a peek into the varied and diverse
communities from faraway lands who have made Fort Kochi their home. Cycle through the different neighbourhoods of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry and discover how 39communities’ live shoulder to shoulder in absolute harmony. Ride along to catch all the action with the hustle-bustle in the local markets.
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Optional Activity: Café Crawl
Fort Kochi is known for its cafes, from the old traditional bakery style cafes to the trendymodern café that offer you a cuppa. We take you to a bunch of handpicked cafes where you don’t just get to meet the people behind the cafes but also get to see glimpses of thepast and understand why they are so popular with the locals. Try a wide selection ofcoffees and teas and get to know the backstory of the age-old commodity trade inKochi. It's a tour we promise you will not fall asleep, we have caffeine for company!
Optional Activity: Spice Trail Adventure
Discover the story of Kochi and Kerala through the story of the Spice Trade and how itinfluenced world history. Perceive how trade has influenced not just the culture of this place but also the local cuisine. All this and more in what is possibly one of the most interesting port towns in the East. Stop at local cafe which was once a bustling peppergodown for a glass of ice tea and understand what went behind the restoration of this heritage building.
Optional Activity: The Toddy Trail
Explores the local alcoholic drink from the coconut tree - Toddy and the traditional craft of its production - Toddy Tapping. Visit a coconut grove and meet the toddy tapper whowill show you the indigenous tools used for this activity. Watch him in action as hedemonstrates how the toddy from the coconut tree is tapped, chopped and extracted. Trysome freshly tapped toddy straight from the tree to the cup.
This afternoon, participate in a cooking class with Nimmy Paul to learn about the delectable traditional Kerala cuisine. Know the age-old recipes passed down through generations and cooked with wholesome local ingredients
DAY 4
Kochi – Munnar
Today, we travel to the enchanting hills of Munnar. The scenic drive, winding from sea level to nearly 6,000 feet, takes you through Kerala’s ever-changing, lush landscapes. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of coconut, pineapple, rubber, coffee, pepper, cardamom, and vanilla plantations before the road opens up to endless stretches of emerald-green tea gardens.
Munnar—meaning “three rivers”—is set at the confluence of three mountain streams, offering the perfect setting for solitude, tranquility, and a refreshing escape from city life.
Nestled in the famous Kanan Devan Hills, Ama Stays & Trails Tea Estate Bungalows offers a truly unique experience. With breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and mist-covered tea estates, it feels like stepping into a living postcard. Each beautifully restored bungalow carries its own rich history and charm.
Savour delicious Kerala cuisine prepared with fresh local produce, relax in elegant and comfortable rooms, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the staff. With soothing views of rolling hills all around, Ama Stays & Trails Tea Estate Bungalows brings the magic of Munnar to life.
DAY 5
Munnar
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Today will acquaint you with the local tea plantation workers, their stories and how thebusiness has changed hands over the years, over a warm cup of tea of course.
Walk around the Munnar village, breathe in the fresh air of the meadows and relax. This is your time to unwind with nature!
Later visit a Tea Factory where you can learn the about the cultivation and processing oftea. Meet the team and enjoy a lovely tea tasting. Also visit the Tea Museum to witnessthe journey history of tea in India.
DAY 6
Munnar
Get ready for an invigorating trek to the peak of the magnificent Lakshmi Hills. The trail takes you through rocky mountain terrain, rolling grasslands, lush tea plantations, stretches of Shola forest, spice gardens, and vibrant birdlife. If the weather is clear, you may even get breathtaking views of Anaimudi—the highest peak in South India—and the shimmering waters of the Idukki Dam, one of Asia’s tallest arch dams and the third-highest dam in India.
The afternoon is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace.
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Optional Activities
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Cooking with the Chef
Join the bungalow chefs in the kitchen and learn authentic local recipes while cooking with fresh, regional ingredients.
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Golfing
Enjoy a round of golf at two exclusive 9-hole golf courses available at a nominal fee.
Trout Fishing
Try traditional trout fishing at the serene Sita Devi Lake, surrounded by natural beauty.
DAY 7
Munnar – Alappuzha (Alleppey)
This morning, drive to Alappuzha, an important ancient trade centre built on narrow strips of land woven through a magical network of rivers, lakes, and lagoons.
In the afternoon, board your private cruise from the Puthenangadi boat jetty. Sail across the serene Vembanad Lake, passing Chithira Church and Venattukadu, before arriving at Moonattinmugham, the scenic point where three rivers meet. Continue towards Chambakkulam via Pullangadi, where you can visit the local church, explore the market, and experience village life.
By evening, the boat will anchor at Thakazhi for the night.
Step aboard your private luxury houseboat, complete with cosy bedrooms, a comfortable living area, air-conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms. Built traditionally without a single nail, these elegant barges are crafted by binding wooden planks with sturdy coir rope. Your stay promises a magical sunset over the horizon and the enjoyment of delicious, authentic Kerala cuisine.
DAY 8
Alappuzha
Begin your morning with a refreshing breakfast on board. During your cruise, stop to visit the ancient Buddha statue Karumady Kuttan and the revered Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Swami Temple.
For those who enjoy a bit of activity, cycling or a guided village walk can be arranged upon request.
Return to the houseboat for lunch as you gently cruise through Pallathuruthy, Kainakary, Chennamkary, Punnamada, and Kuttithodu.
In the evening, the houseboat will anchor at Chithira for the night.
DAY 9
Alappuzha – Kochi – Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a final cruise across the serene Vembanad Lake before disembarking at the Puthenangadi boat jetty.
Later, drive to Kochi Airport for your international flight back home.
We wish you a safe and pleasant journey, and we look forward to welcoming you back to continue exploring Incredible India in the near future.