Day 1: Arrive Trivandrum and transfer to Varkala.
Days 2-3: Kumarakom, the best of Kerala's backwaters, is situated on Vembanad Lake near Kottayam. A paradise of mangroves, paddy fields, water lilies, kingfishers and coconut groves networked by a maze of waterways and canals. Wake up to a hive of activity, tiny canoes ferrying fruit and vegetables, children rowing to school, fishermen casting for the day's catch, the tempting aroma of fried fish and juicy mussels. The Kumarakon Bird Sanctuary attracts numerous migrating flocks.
Days 4-5: Drive into the foothills of the Western Ghats towards Periyar. The best way to observe the game in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is by boat. There are herds of elephant, and bison, packs of wild boar various species of ape including the golden langur monkey, rarely seen elsewhere in India. Turtles can often be seen sunning themselves on the pieces of wood that stick out of the water. Osprey and Cormorants are the most prevalent bird species in this area.
Days 6 & 7: Cochin is situated on a number of small islands and peninsulas. Ferries join the islands and you are transported by boat through the green lagoons that form the city's harbor. The trade in spices is still important, as is shipbuilding. In 1653 the Dutch settled in Cochin to trade in pepper. There is a ‘Dutch palace' with beautiful murals depicting different episodes in Hindu mythology, a 16th century Jewish synagogue and the only Jewish neighborhood in India. The ten-meter high Chinese fishnets that Marco Polo mentioned are wonderful to see - this method of fishing originated in the 11th century. After a trip to a backwater village you will finish the evening with the famous dance drama of Kerala, the Kathakali. Grotesque gesticulations, amazing costumes and very extensive make-up characterize this dance. The stories are mostly taken from the Mahabharaata and Ramaayana.
Days 8-9: Luxuriate on one of the most stunning beaches anywhere, palm lined Kovalam, indulge in delicious seafood or take a day trip to Kanyakumari, the southern most tip of India.
Day 10: Depart. Transfer to Trivandrum airport.
