12-Nights Best of Kerala & Maldives from $2,928

Day 1: Arrive in Cochin

Upon arriving in Cochin, you'll be greeted by an airport representative who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, you'll have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

Cochin, the green commercial capital of Kerala, is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and one of the finest natural harbors in the world, earning it the title 'Queen of the Arabian Sea.'

Hotel: CGH Eighth Bastion (4 Star Rating)

The Dutch legacy re-imagined.

Legend has it that there were seven bastions in Fort Kochi, built by the Portuguese and strengthened by the Dutch. Adding on to this 500-year-old legacy of defending oncoming conquests is CGH Earth's Eighth Bastion. Built by blending contemporary and colonial styles each room has a distinct appeal. The echoes from the past come alive here while the air carries an unmistakable sweet scent.

This morning, visit the historic buildings of Fort Cochin, constructed by Portugal's Alfonzo de Albuquerque in 1500. Albuquerque arrived with six ships carrying settlers and friars and built St. Francis Church, India's first European church, notable for its simple design and beautiful floor tiles. The church still features colonial-era punkahs, large swinging cloth fans operated manually. Nearby, in striking contrast, is the Santa Cruz Cathedral with its 20th-century Indo-Romano-Rococo style.

Explore Jew Town, known for its antique shops, warehouses, and spice auction rooms, with signs reminding visitors of its once-thriving Jewish community. Traditions suggest that Jews settled here in 587 BC after fleeing Jerusalem's occupation by Nebuchadnezzar or even earlier in the 11th century BC, part of King Solomon's trading fleet. The earliest concrete evidence of their presence is a copper inscription from AD 388, and they have remained respected members of Kerala society.

See the iconic Chinese fishing nets along Fort Cochin's shore, introduced by traders from Kublai Khan's court, operating by weights and levers. After sightseeing, drive to Munnar, a popular hill resort town in Kerala's Western Ghats, situated in the Idukki district. Munnar, named for its location at the confluence of three rivers, offers a serene retreat. Upon arrival, check-in and relax.

Hotel: Scenic, Munnar - IHCL SeleQtions (4 Star Rating)

Scenic, Munnar - IHCL SeleQtions is surrounded by lush hills, verdant valleys, tranquil waterfalls and expansive tea plantations. Each of its well-appointed 55 accommodations, from secluded villas with private plunge pools to charmingly decorated expansive suites, offer a blissful blend of privacy, finesse and nature-inspired solitude. Thoughtfully adorned with decor inspired by flora, wood, sand and the vibrant Neelakurinji flower, it is a testament to the natural elegance of this paradise.

Meal(s): Breakfast

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Munnar, starting with a visit to the fascinating Tea Museum. Here, you'll learn about the history and evolution of tea production in the region. Next, visit the Srishti Welfare Center, an inspiring NGO dedicated to empowering differently-abled individuals through education, training, and employment opportunities. Conclude with a stop at the Anaimudy Viewpoint, where you can take in breathtaking views of the highest peak in South India, surrounded by the lush, verdant landscapes of the Western Ghats.

Hotel: Scenic, Munnar - IHCL SeleQtions (4 Star Rating)

Scenic, Munnar - IHCL SeleQtions is surrounded by lush hills, verdant valleys, tranquil waterfalls and expansive tea plantations. Each of its well-appointed 55 accommodations, from secluded villas with private plunge pools to charmingly decorated expansive suites, offer a blissful blend of privacy, finesse and nature-inspired solitude. Thoughtfully adorned with decor inspired by flora, wood, sand and the vibrant Neelakurinji flower, it is a testament to the natural elegance of this paradise.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Today, drive to the highlands of Periyar (Thekkady).

Since 1895, the British maintained this area as a wildlife reserve, and there are still some opportunities to spot elephants, bison, deer, numerous bird species, and even the occasional tiger. The rugged, tropical landscape is well-suited for tea, coffee, and spice cultivation.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Later, proceed to visit a spice plantation. While Columbus mistakenly discovered America searching for a sea route to India, explorers like Vasco da Gama successfully reached the spice-rich southwestern tip of India, now Kerala. Spices have always been integral to life in Kerala, with Ayurvedic masters utilizing them for medicinal purposes. Spices also play a vital role in Kerala cuisine, non-Ayurvedic medicine, and cosmetics. Due to Periyar's location at about 1000 meters above sea level, it is blessed with numerous spice varieties. Experience the diverse spices and medicinal plants that distinguish Kerala cuisine, including cardamom, pepper, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and more.

Hotel: CGH Spice Village (5 Star Rating)

A tribal village set in a spice garden in the cool highlands of Periyar in Thekkady.

Spice Village is modelled on the dwellings of the native Manan tribe of this region and exudes the raw spirit of unblemished nature. This CGH Earth experience is a seamless extension of the verdant landscape around and celebrates all things spice. If you need evidence that comfort is easily obtained without intruding on Nature, you don't need to look further than Spice Village's cottages. No fancy carpets. Just coir mats on bare stone floors. Modern bathrooms and interiors, but with a spartan elegance based on simple, natural materials and local woodcraft.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Start your day with a nature walk along various trails that traverse diverse habitats. These trekking routes are typically 4 to 5 km long and provide a wonderful opportunity to observe birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The trails often wind through evergreen and moist deciduous forests, interspersed with marshy grasslands, making it an interpretive and enriching experience.

In the evening, explore the Periyar Reserve by boat. As the boat glides over the still, dark waters of the lake, you can take in the vibrant greenery of the surrounding foliage. The gentle brush of tree branches against the boat evokes a sense of history, recalling times when waterways were the primary means of transport. This remarkable experience is heightened by the occasional sight of animals drinking at the water's edge.

Hotel: CGH Spice Village (5 Star Rating)

A tribal village set in a spice garden in the cool highlands of Periyar in Thekkady.

Spice Village is modelled on the dwellings of the native Manan tribe of this region and exudes the raw spirit of unblemished nature. This CGH Earth experience is a seamless extension of the verdant landscape around and celebrates all things spice. If you need evidence that comfort is easily obtained without intruding on Nature, you don't need to look further than Spice Village's cottages. No fancy carpets. Just coir mats on bare stone floors. Modern bathrooms and interiors, but with a spartan elegance based on simple, natural materials and local woodcraft.

Meal(s): Breakfast

After breakfast, check-out and drive to Alleppey.

Upon arrival, proceed to the embarkation point for an unforgettable boat cruise through Alleppey's coconut-lined canals. Your journey will take you through tranquil landscapes, lush coconut groves, and vibrant paddy fields. The "backwaters" refer to an extensive network of rivers, lakes, canals, and lagoons that connect the coast and interior south of Kochi. For centuries, these canals have provided a safe and efficient means of transportation for goods and people moving between the heartland and the coastal port towns.

Relax in your boat as you glide through waterways lined with dense tropical vegetation. As you pass by small villages, observe the rural lifestyles of locals who bathe and wash their clothes at the water's edge. Your views will continually change, showcasing papaya and mango trees, coconut harvesting, coir factories, and paddy fields. You'll also catch glimpses of small churches, mosques, and temples, reflecting the diverse religions that peacefully coexist in the region. The occasional sight of a kingfisher or parrot adds a splash of color to the serene landscape.

Hotel: Kerala Backwaters Houseboat (4 Star Rating)

A Kerala houseboat offers a serene and unique experience, gliding through the tranquil backwaters surrounded by lush greenery and traditional villages. It provides an intimate glimpse into local culture and nature, making for a relaxing and picturesque retreat.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

After breakfast, disembark from your private houseboat and drive to Cochin. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure.

Hotel: CGH Eighth Bastion (4 Star Rating)

The Dutch legacy re-imagined.

Legend has it that there were seven bastions in Fort Kochi, built by the Portuguese and strengthened by the Dutch. Adding on to this 500-year-old legacy of defending oncoming conquests is CGH Earth's Eighth Bastion. Built by blending contemporary and colonial styles each room has a distinct appeal. The echoes from the past come alive here while the air carries an unmistakable sweet scent.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Upon arriving in Male, transfer by speedboat from Velana International Airport to Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi. The beautiful Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi is set on an 83 acres private island amongst lush, tropical vegetation and pristine blue waters of the Indian ocean. The resort offers first class accommodations in a variety of Villas, a Premium All-Inclusive plan, incredible dining options, a spa, diving, snorkeling, watersports and excursions. If you are a diver, expect to see amid the coral reefs in the clear blue waters which abound here, mantas, sharks, hammerheads as well as swarms of colourful tropical fish. In fact, there are 200 species of coral and over a thousand different species of fish!

Hotel: Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi (4 Star Rating)

Experience a holiday in the tropics beyond compare at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi. Blessed with thriving vegetation and pristine waters, the Island of White Gold finds itself in peaceful seclusion in the North Male Atoll. Discover a paradise hidden away in plain sight where the sun rises painting the skies in rich orange hues and the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean caress the shore with grace.

Set in 83 acres of surprisingly lush tropical beach property near Kani Beach on Lhohifushi Island the resort's design enables it to snuggle into its surroundings setting it apart from other Maldives Island resorts. This unique quality reinforcing the impression of a quiet village whose shores are lapped by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, a haven of tranquility.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore or enjoy the resort's facilities.

Hotel: Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi (4 Star Rating)

Experience a holiday in the tropics beyond compare at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi. Blessed with thriving vegetation and pristine waters, the Island of White Gold finds itself in peaceful seclusion in the North Male Atoll. Discover a paradise hidden away in plain sight where the sun rises painting the skies in rich orange hues and the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean caress the shore with grace.

Set in 83 acres of surprisingly lush tropical beach property near Kani Beach on Lhohifushi Island the resort's design enables it to snuggle into its surroundings setting it apart from other Maldives Island resorts. This unique quality reinforcing the impression of a quiet village whose shores are lapped by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, a haven of tranquility.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore or enjoy the resort's facilities.

Hotel: Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi (4 Star Rating)

Experience a holiday in the tropics beyond compare at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi. Blessed with thriving vegetation and pristine waters, the Island of White Gold finds itself in peaceful seclusion in the North Male Atoll. Discover a paradise hidden away in plain sight where the sun rises painting the skies in rich orange hues and the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean caress the shore with grace.

Set in 83 acres of surprisingly lush tropical beach property near Kani Beach on Lhohifushi Island the resort's design enables it to snuggle into its surroundings setting it apart from other Maldives Island resorts. This unique quality reinforcing the impression of a quiet village whose shores are lapped by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, a haven of tranquility.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore or enjoy the resort's facilities.

Hotel: Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi (4 Star Rating)

Experience a holiday in the tropics beyond compare at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi. Blessed with thriving vegetation and pristine waters, the Island of White Gold finds itself in peaceful seclusion in the North Male Atoll. Discover a paradise hidden away in plain sight where the sun rises painting the skies in rich orange hues and the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean caress the shore with grace.

Set in 83 acres of surprisingly lush tropical beach property near Kani Beach on Lhohifushi Island the resort's design enables it to snuggle into its surroundings setting it apart from other Maldives Island resorts. This unique quality reinforcing the impression of a quiet village whose shores are lapped by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, a haven of tranquility.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore or enjoy the resort's facilities.

Hotel: Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi (4 Star Rating)

Experience a holiday in the tropics beyond compare at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi. Blessed with thriving vegetation and pristine waters, the Island of White Gold finds itself in peaceful seclusion in the North Male Atoll. Discover a paradise hidden away in plain sight where the sun rises painting the skies in rich orange hues and the gentle waves of the Indian Ocean caress the shore with grace.

Set in 83 acres of surprisingly lush tropical beach property near Kani Beach on Lhohifushi Island the resort's design enables it to snuggle into its surroundings setting it apart from other Maldives Island resorts. This unique quality reinforcing the impression of a quiet village whose shores are lapped by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, a haven of tranquility.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Say goodbye to the beauty of the Maldives and head to the airport to begin your departure home.

Meal(s): Breakfast