India

Kerala: A Peaceful Escape to the Malabar Coast

When

October To March

Price

From $4,880pp excl. flights
(based on 2 ppl sharing)

How long

10 nights ideal length

There are few places on Earth to match the diversity of culture, religion, landscape and cuisine of this tiny state tacked onto the southwestern tip of India. Kerala, known as the ‘land of coconut trees’ (with good reason – there are over 200 million of them) is a place that time seems to have forgotten. An 11-night journey through the stunning state of Kerala, from the spicy peaks of Wayanad to the luxurious houseboats of the backwaters, prepare to be amazed. We are the experts when it comes to India and will enhance every trip with our insight, privileged access and faultless knowledge. Mixing old European influences with the vibrant sub-continental culture, you can begin to see why Kerala is high on most people’s must-see list.

Coffee, spice and all things nice

First, a journey to remember on India’s rails. The hype behind India’s train network comes with good reason; this 150-year-old dinosaur, the 4th largest in the world, carries 25 million people daily. This morning you will board your train heading north through the vibrant countryside of South India into the remote forests of Wayanad to the boutique Tranquil Resort. Set in 400 acres of coffee and spice plantation, look forward to a chic Tree House villa high above the forest floor. Re-charge with an ayurvedic massage treatment before touring the nearby tea factory or taking a traditional cooking class.

For the intrepid traveler, a trip to Muithanga Game reserve is a must. An early morning jeep ride will take you in search of elephants, sloths, sambhars and gaurs before arriving at the breathtaking Meenmutty waterfalls, a three-tiered spectacle that cascades more than three hundred meters through the jungle canopy.

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Cruising on the backwaters of Kerala

Tomorrow, you’ll embark on one of our favorite Keralan experiences as you set off on a leisurely cruise through the Alleppey waterways on your private houseboat, The Lotus. As you enter the Kerala backwaters, you will be surrounded by the tranquillity of virgin rainforests with just the cool breeze rustling through the endless palm fronds for company. With your own onboard chef ready to cater to your every whim, any stress will surely melt away as you watch the magical scenery drift by – the perfect honeymoon experience we think.

After docking back on dry land, a leisurely drive takes you to the shores of the Arabian Sea where Neeleshwar awaits. Spend your days relaxing by the infinity pool, listening to the sounds of the dolphins or integrating into the culture of the surrounding villages. Finally, a sunset cruise around Cochin’s islands and lagoons is a perfect, peaceful way to round off your Indian voyage and reflect on the journey you’ve made.

Where to rest your head

Neeleshwar Hermitage, Kerala

A Black Tomato favourite, Neeleshwar Hermitage reveals its treasures at a leisurely pace, enabling you to take in and appreciate each one. Wake up to…
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Tranquil Plantation Hideaway, Karnataka

With just nine rooms and suites including the signature Tree villa suite, Tranquil resort does exactly what it says on the tin. This boutique hotel…
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The Lotus Houseboat, Kerala

The best way to explore Kerala’s backwaters? Without a doubt, it has to be onboard the luxurious and unique Lotus Houseboat. Once used to transport…
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