Kathakali ā Classical dance drama, Kalaripayattu ā Ancient martial art performance
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Upon arrival at Trivandrum airport or railway station, youāll be greeted warmly and set off on a journey that combines spirituality, nature, and culture. Your first stop is the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a stunning symbol of Indian architecture and devotion. The temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a place where spirituality seeps through the beautiful paintings, rituals, and holy ceremonies, giving you a deep sense of peace and reverence.
Next, head to the Azhimala Shiva Temple, nestled in the scenic hamlet of Azhimala, where divinity meets nature. The temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, offers a mesmerising view of the beach below. As you stand there, feeling the gentle sea breeze, the mix of devotion and natural beauty creates a mystical atmosphere thatās hard to forget.
Varkala Beach: Sunset Magic
After soaking in the spirituality, youāll head towards the serene Varkala Beach. This peaceful coastal town, with its red cliffs and golden sands, invites you to slow down and unwind. As the sun begins to set, casting shades of yellow, orange, and red across the sky, youāll watch the waves rhythmically lap against the shore. The sunās gentle descent into the horizon feels like a meditative experience, as if nature itself is preparing for a restful night.
Varkala Cliff Shopping: A Local Treasure Hunt Once the sun has set, you can explore the Varkala Cliff and its vibrant shopping scene. Whether you're searching for unique souvenirs, intricately carved woodcrafts, or Keralaās traditional sarees, the cliffside shops have a wide range of options for you. The mix of bohemian-style clothing, trendy beachwear, and handcrafted accessories adds a lively vibe to the peaceful beach town.
As you wander, take a moment to indulge in Keralaās famous spices, browsing through the local spice markets for cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepperābringing the essence of Kerala home with you.
For those interested in healing and well-being, Ayurveda is at the heart of Varkala. The town is home to numerous Ayurvedic centres and spas where you can experience ancient treatments and therapies that promise to rejuvenate both body and mind.
If you're a book lover or a music enthusiast, Varkala wonāt disappoint. The town has bookstores and music shops offering a mix of spiritual texts, travel guides, and local literary works, perfect for those who seek knowledge and inspiration.
Overnight Stay: Varkala
After a hearty breakfast, you'll arrive in Alleppey and check into a charming houseboat.
Upon arrival, you'll be warmly welcomed by the trek leader and local hosts, offering refreshing welcome drinks to set the mood.
Soon, you'll embark on a peaceful ride through Keralaās backwaters, where every ripple tells a story and the scenic views of nature come alive before your eyes.
Let the beauty of the backwaters weave a tale of serenity, with emerald green paddy fields, canals, and life bustling along the waterās edge.
As you cruise, soak in the present moment, immersing yourself in the enchanting landscapes of Kerala.
Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on board, prepared with local flavours that will delight your taste buds.
Evening Sunset and Dinner:
Spend the afternoon watching the sun as it slowly sets, casting golden hues across the water, making the scene feel like a painted canvas.
As the day winds down, relish a hearty dinner, prepared with love and care filling both your stomach and your heart.The evening is a perfect time to connect with nature, listen to the rhythmic sounds of the water, and relax as the night settles in.This day will blend human warmth, natureās charm, and the essence of Kerala's tranquil lifestyle into one unforgettable experience.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast on the houseboat, soaking in the last moments of the serene backwaters before heading to Munnar.Upon arrival in Munnar, you'll begin exploring its local attractions, starting with the Echo Point. Call out your name and hear it reverberate through the mountains, creating a fun, natural echo effect.
Exploring Munnar: Next, visit the Tea Gardens, where youāll get a glimpse into the world of tea production. Watch the tea-making process and learn about the different varieties of tea dust, perhaps even sampling some fresh, locally grown tea .Afterwards, stop by a Chocolate Factory, where you can witness the chocolate-making process and purchase some sweet treats if you like.
Elephant Point Experience :Visit Elephant Point, where you'll get to see elephants up close. Guided by experienced mahouts, these majestic animals respond to gentle commands, and the mahouts use their toes to communicate by touching the back of the elephantsā earsāa fascinating interaction that demonstrates their deep bond.
Cultural Heritage at Kalari Kshethra: Conclude your day at Kalari Kshethra, the centre for Kerala's rich cultural heritage. Here, you can witness two of Kerala's oldest and most iconic art forms:
Overnight Stay: Munnar
Begin your day with a scenic drive from Munnar towards Kochi, heading first to the Cheeyappara Waterfalls. This magnificent seven-step waterfall, cascading down the rocky slopes, offers a perfect retreat amidst nature. Surrounded by a dense growth of trees, itās an ideal spot for relaxation. Youāll be able to unwind by the sound of rushing water, breathing in the fresh mountain air.Youāll also have the chance to enjoy local delicacies from the nearby food vendors, including hot tea, coffee, and homemade chocolatesāperfect for a quick snack or simply to savour the local flavours.
Valara Waterfalls: A Hidden Gem Just a short distance away, visit Valara Waterfalls. This hidden gem, with its pristine surroundings of lush greenery and clear air, will stay etched in your memory. The beauty of Valara offers a sense of peace and serenity, making it a lovely stop to admire Kerala's natural charm.
Athirapally Falls: The Niagara of South India Next, make your way to the majestic Athirapally Falls, often called the "Niagara of South India." As Keralaās largest waterfall, it will leave you awestruck by its grandeur. The entire breadth of the river cascades down the rocky ledge in a powerful, yet graceful display of natureās force. Spend some time marvelling at this natural wonder, letting the thundering sound of the falls immerse you in the beauty of the moment. Take a leisurely walk along the viewing points or sit by the falls to appreciate the raw energy and breathtaking scenery of this iconic location.
Final Stretch to Kochi:After enjoying the waterfalls, continue on your way to Kochi, where you'll be dropped off at either the airport or railway station, marking the end of your memorable journey through Kerala.Ā
šļø Accommodation (Triple/Quad Sharing)
šļø One night at Varkala
š¤ One night at Alleppey
šæ One night at Munnar
š³ 4 breakfasts
š Transportation (Trivandrum to Kochi)
š State Permit
š Driver, tolls, parking, fuel
𩹠First Aid Kit
š¹ Houseboat welcome drinks, lunch & dinner
š§¾ 5% GST
š± Lunch & Dinner (except in Houseboat)
šļø Entry TicketsĀ
š§āāļø Personal Expenses
š Kathakali & š„ Kalaripayattu Shows
š« Anything not mentioned in "Inclusions"