Arrival Night - Cochin

You will arrive late in the evening at Cochin international airport. Following customs, immigration, formalities and baggage collection, a Festive India Tours representative will meet you as you exit the arrivals terminals building after which you would be transferred to your hotel.

Day 01 - Cochin

Serene Kochi has been drawing traders, explorers and travellers to its shores for over 600 years. Kochi is also a centre for Keralan arts and one of the best places to see Kathakali. We recommend you take a half-day tour of Cochin, visiting St.Francis Church, the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. This evening, why not book a traditional Kathakali dance show. Night stay at leisure.

Day 02 - Periyar

South India’s most popular wildlife sanctuary, Periyar, also called Thekkady. The vast region is home to bison, sambar, wild boar, langur, 900 to 1000 elephants and 35 to 40 hard-to-spot tigers. Drive to Thekkady in the highlands of Kerala and transfer to your hotel close to Periyar National Park, which is famous for its large population of elephants. Night stay at leisure.

Day 03 - Periyar

It's firmly established on both the Indian and foreigner tourist trails and has a typical boat cruise that doesn't scream 'wildlife experience' Rise early today and book a guided nature walk in the park. Night stay at leisure.

Day 04 - Kumarakom

Kumarakom, 16km west of Kottayam and on the shore of vast Vembanad Lake – Kerala's largest lake – is an unhurried backwater village with a smattering of dazzling top-end sleeping options and a renowned bird sanctuary. Drive west to Kumarakom, gateway to Kerala’s beautiful backwaters, and transfer to your hotel. Night stay at leisure.

Day 05 - Kumarakom

An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors Boating and Fishing facilities. This morning is a treat for nature lovers as you’ll visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. During a short trek through the estate you may see a variety of species including egrets and Siberian cranes. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Night stay at leisure.

Day 06 - Houseboat

Alleppey is the hub of Kerala's backwaters, home to a vast network of waterways and more than a thousand houseboats. Wandering around the small but chaotic city centre and bus-stand area, with its modest grid of canals, you'd be hard-pressed to agree with the “Venice of the East”. Transfer to the jetty to board a private, traditional houseboat for an overnight cruise on the tranquil backwaters. Your comfortable boat features one to four bedrooms, all with a bathroom, open lounge, deck, kitchenette and a crew comprising of a captain, chef and multilingual guide.

Day 07 - Mumbai

Mumbai is India’s financial powerhouse, fashion epicentre and a pulse point of religious tension. Disembark in the morning and transfer to the airport for your flight to the vibrant port city of Mumbai. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to relax or explore – maybe stroll along the seafront boulevard to Chowpatty Beach to sample some street food. This evening a heritage walk takes you into the heart of the historic fort area. Explore the ‘White Town’ – the European half of the old town, admire the Victoria Terminus, F.W. Steven’s gothic masterpiece, and stroll along the Heritage Mile of Mumbai which reflects the city’s colonial history. Night stay at leisure.

Day 08 - Mumbai

Later visit the UNESCO-listed Elephanta Caves, an incredible temple complex featuring shrines and intricately-carved sculptures. Explore the city with visits to the Gateway of India, Marine Drive and the Prince of Wales Museum. Observe the city’s famous Dabbawalas (Tiffin meal delivery service) in action at one of the stations. Visit the Jain temple, Dhobi Ghat and Mani Bhawan where Gandhi once stayed. Night stay at leisure

Day 09 - Mumbai

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.