This Kerala cultural tour by Indian Panorama offers more than scenic beauty - it immerses you in Kerala's rich heritage. In 9 days, enjoy heritage walks in Fort Kochi, dine with locals, witness Kathakali, explore villages, visit the University of Traditional Performing Arts at Cheruthuruthy, and relax on an Alleppey houseboat for the best Kerala cultural experience.
Detailed Itineary
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Day 1 : Arrival at Cochin
Upon your arrival at Cochin International Airport, our Indian Panorama representative will welcome you and assist with a comfortable transfer to your hotel. In the evening, immerse yourself in Kerala's cultural heritage with a captivating Kathakali dance performance - a classical art form that combines storytelling, music, and elaborate makeup, which you'll get to watch being applied before the show. The dancers applying their makeup is an art in itself. It's an unforgettable start to your Kerala cultural tour.
Overnight stay in Fort Kochi.
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Day 2 : Cochin - Thrissur - Cheruthuruthy
Start your day with a guided heritage walk in Fort Kochi, soaking in colonial architecture and the coastal charm. Later, drive to Thrissur, famously known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala and home to vibrant temple festivals. Visit the revered Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, one of Kerala's most important pilgrimage sites (please note: entry is restricted to Hindus).
Continue to Cheruthuruthy, home to the prestigious Kerala Kalamandalam, a renowned university of performing arts. Witness live training sessions in classical art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, Panchavadyam, and Ottamthullal. It's an immersive opportunity to experience Kerala's traditional arts and interact with the artists.
Overnight stay in Cheruthuruthy.
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Day 3 : Cheruthuruthy - Alleppey via Manakkodam Village
After breakfast, leave Cheruthuruthy and head towards Manakkodam Village, where Indian Panorama has launched a unique rural tourism initiative. This authentic village tour - created and guided by our own local team - offers a deep insight into traditional Kerala village life.
Walk through the village lanes, interact with residents, visit a local school, and observe daily life unfold in its natural rhythm. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch before continuing your journey to the famed Alleppey backwaters.
Overnight stay in Alleppey.
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Day 4 : Alleppey Houseboat
Begin your day with a guided Alleppey sightseeing tour, exploring the vibrant local markets, Guajarati Street, the historic CSI Church, and the iconic Alleppey Lighthouse. Take a peaceful stroll along Alleppey Beach, soaking in the coastal charm.
Your stay is nestled alongside the scenic Alleppey backwaters, offering a front-row view into traditional Kerala life. Though the pace seems slow, the region thrives with rice cultivation, coconut farming, duck rearing, fishing, and more - making it a vital agricultural hub.
At midday, head to Alleppey boat jetty and board your private Kerala houseboat, a must-experience part of every Kerala cultural tour. Spend the afternoon gliding through tranquil canals and palm-fringed waterways, witnessing life along the Kerala backwaters.
Overnight stay on the houseboat.
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Day 5 : Alleppey - Periyar
After breakfast, disembark from your Kerala houseboat and reconnect with your driver. Begin your scenic drive to Periyar/Thekkady, nestled in the lush Western Ghats, a journey of around 4 hours.
En route, stop at a vibrant Kerala spice plantation where you'll take a guided walk and discover how everyday spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon are cultivated.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel in Thekkady and unwind. In the evening, enjoy an enriching cultural experience with a live tribal dance performance by the Mannan community, one of India's oldest indigenous tribes, known for their deep-rooted traditions and rituals.
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Day 6 : Periyar
Spend the day soaking in the natural beauty of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most scenic and biodiverse regions in Kerala. Choose from a range of eco-adventures like bamboo rafting, jungle trekking, or take a peaceful drive through the misty Western Ghats.
In the evening, witness an electrifying performance of Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art of Kerala known for its agility, strength, and traditional weaponry. This centuries-old practice is one of the most dramatic cultural attractions in Kerala and a must-see for visitors seeking an authentic Kerala cultural experience.
Overnight stay in Periyar/Thekkady.
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Day 7 : Periyar - Munnar
Today's journey takes you through the winding mountain roads of the Western Ghats, offering panoramic views and lush green valleys as you travel to Munnar, Kerala's iconic tea plantation hill station. This drive is one of the most scenic in South India, with mist-covered hills and picture-perfect landscapes.
In the afternoon, visit the renowned Munnar Tea Museum to explore the fascinating history and production process of one of the world's favourite beverages. Learn how fresh tea leaves are transformed into the richly flavoured teas Kerala is famous for.
Overnight stay in Munnar.
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Day 8 : Munnar
Spend a full day exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of Munnar, one of the best hill stations in Kerala. Begin with a visit to the scenic Mattupetty Dam, followed by a peaceful boat ride on Mattupetty Lake, surrounded by rolling hills and lush plantations.
In the afternoon, enjoy a picturesque drive to Top Station, renowned for its panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Tamil Nadu plains below. The misty mountains and cool breeze make this one of the most unforgettable experiences in Munnar.
Overnight stay in Munnar.
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Day 9 : Munnar - Cochin Depart
Your incredible Kerala cultural journey comes to a close today. After breakfast, bid goodbye to the misty hills of Munnar and embark on a scenic drive down to Cochin International Airport. Our team at Indian Panorama will be there to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth departure.
Until we meet again for another incredible adventure with Indian Panorama - safe travels!
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