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5 Days
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Max People : 26
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Jan 18’ - Dec 21'
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Min Age : 10+
Description
Destination Overview
Kochi (formerly Cochin) stands as Kerala’s vibrant cultural capital where history, tradition, and modernity blend seamlessly against a backdrop of Arabian Sea waters. This charming port city has been shaped by diverse influences—Portuguese, Dutch, British, Chinese, and Arab traders have all left their mark on its architecture, cuisine, and culture over centuries of maritime trade.
Fort Kochi, the historic heart of the city, captivates visitors with its colonial buildings, ancient Chinese fishing nets silhouetted against sunset skies, and streets lined with spice warehouses and art galleries. Just across the harbor, Ernakulam represents contemporary Kochi with its bustling markets, modern shopping districts, and cosmopolitan energy.
What makes Kochi truly special is its living heritage—watching traditional Kathakali performances, exploring Jewish synagogues, Portuguese churches, and Hindu temples that have stood for centuries, and sailing through the intricate network of backwaters that connect the city to Kerala’s lush countryside. As a gateway to Kerala’s treasures, Kochi offers the perfect introduction to the state’s cultural richness while providing all the comforts of a modern Indian city.
Highlights of Kochi Experience
Cultural Heritage
- Historic Fort Kochi Colonial Architecture
- Iconic Chinese Fishing Nets
- 16th Century Jewish Synagogue
- St. Francis Church (India’s Oldest European Church)
- Traditional Kathakali & Mohiniyattam Performances
Maritime History
- Spice Trading Heritage Sites
- Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace)
- Maritime Museum
- Historic Harbor Front
- Indo-Portuguese Architecture
Natural Splendors
- Vembanad Lake Backwaters
- Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
- Cherai Beach Golden Shores
- Sunset Harbor Cruises
- Lush Mangrove Forests
Culinary Experiences
- Fresh Seafood Markets
- Syrian Christian Specialties
- Traditional Kerala Sadya Meals
- Spice Market Exploration
- Anglo-Indian Fusion Cuisine
Unique Encounters
- Local Artisan Workshops
- Spice Plantation Tours
- Houseboat Day Cruises
- Traditional Fishing Demonstrations
- Contemporary Kochi-Muziris Biennale Art Festival
Itinerary
Your Varkala adventure begins as you arrive at this distinctive coastal gem, where our representative welcomes you with refreshing coconut water before escorting you to your cliff-top accommodation. Settle into your sea-view room where the panoramic vistas of the Arabian Sea instantly transport you to vacation mode. The afternoon unfolds with a guided orientation walk along the red laterite cliff pathway, where shops selling colorful textiles and handicrafts alternate with cafes offering spectacular ocean views. As you stroll, your guide explains how these unique geological formations were created millions of years ago, making Varkala unlike any other beach in Kerala. Your first evening climaxes with dinner at a cliff-top restaurant where fresh seafood specialties are served as the sun melts into the horizon, painting the sky in dramatic hues of orange and purple.
Today explores Varkala's sacred dimensions, beginning with an optional sunrise yoga session overlooking the sea—the perfect introduction to the spiritual energy that permeates this ancient place. After breakfast featuring traditional Kerala puttu and fresh tropical fruits, visit the 2,000-year-old Janardana Swami Temple, one of the most revered Vishnu temples in the region. Your guide explains the temple's significance while local pilgrims perform rituals that have remained unchanged for centuries. Next, descend the steps to Papanasam Beach where the mineral springs emerge from the cliff face. Here, tradition holds that a dip washes away sins (papanasam), and you'll observe devotees performing rituals in the water. The afternoon brings a visit to the nearby Kappil Lake, where the backwaters meet the sea in a stunning confluence of ecosystems. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch beside the lake before returning for an evening of leisure to explore the cliff-top market.
Your third day awakens your senses through Kerala's renowned culinary traditions. Begin with a morning visit to a local fishing village where boats return with their fresh catch—watch the animated fish auction and select seafood for your cooking class later in the day. Next, explore a traditional spice garden where cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg grow abundantly; learn how these spices have shaped Kerala's history and cuisine. The afternoon features a hands-on cooking class with a local chef who guides you through authentic Keralan preparations, from perfectly spiced fish curry to delicate appams. Savor your creations for lunch while overlooking the sea. As evening approaches, witness an exclusive Kathakali performance arranged specially for you, where elaborate costumes, expressive facial movements, and traditional music tell ancient Hindu stories in this classical art form unique to Kerala.
Dedicated to rejuvenation, your fourth day embraces Kerala's Ayurvedic traditions with a morning consultation with an experienced Ayurvedic doctor who determines your dosha (body constitution). Based on this assessment, enjoy a personalized treatment utilizing medicated oils and traditional techniques passed down through generations. After your session, savor a light vegetarian meal designed according to Ayurvedic principles at a cliff-top cafe. The afternoon invites exploration of Varkala's natural beauty with a guided trek to the nearby Edava Beach and Kappil Lake estuary—a less-visited area where migratory birds gather among the palm groves. Here, the peaceful backwaters create perfect conditions for birdwatching and photography. Return to your accommodation for some leisure time before a sunset boat ride takes you along the coastline, offering a different perspective of the magnificent cliffs glowing red in the evening light.
Your final day celebrates Varkala's maritime character with a morning of ocean activities suited to your preference. Choose between a guided swimming session in the safe zones of the beach, introductory surfing lessons with experienced instructors, or a peaceful paddleboarding excursion along the coast. After working up an appetite, enjoy a special farewell lunch featuring a traditional Kerala sadhya—a feast served on banana leaf with over 20 different items representing the full spectrum of Kerala flavors. Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps shopping for last-minute souvenirs like handloom textiles or locally-made jewelry along the cliff. As your Varkala experience draws to a close, gather for a final sunset meditation session overlooking the sea, where the rhythmic waves and golden light create the perfect backdrop for reflection on your journey. Your adventure concludes with a beach farewell dinner under the stars, complete with fresh grilled seafood and the gentle sounds of traditional percussion instruments playing in the background.
Location
Faq
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
From ₹711.00
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