A leisurely exploration of the serene south takes you to some of the most popular holiday hubs in this land of paddy fields, swaying palms and tranquil backwaters.
Heading out from historic port town of Cochin along the Malabar Coast you travel along trails rich in temple architecture, palaces, fortified ruins, churches of deep antiquity, and spice markets before venturing into open countryside rich in plantations of tea, coffee, cardamom, rubber and legendary pepper from which great fortunes have been made even in ancient Rome. Your journey will be on trains, planes, by road and on waterways in the traditional Kettuvallam house boats, Kerala’s evocative answer to the caravans of the West. Overnight stay will be in colonial mansions and charming bungalows replete with atmospheric touches.
You will experience staying in a traditional Malayali cottage by the banks of the backwaters and spend some time in a traditional planter’s bungalow where echoes of the British Raj still linger. At both these places, you will stay as special guests and meet your hosts and learn about the living history and culture that is all around you.
