Stunning Backwaters, History, Culture & Beaches of Kerala

Day 1: Arrival Cochin International Airport
Arrive at Cranganor History Cafe & Riverside Chateau near Kochi. Check-in and relax for a while.Cranganor History Cafe & Riverside Chateau is a perfect retreat to experience the rich cultural heritage of Kochi. The resort is located on the banks of the tranquil Periyar River, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere.The History Cafe provides a unique dining experience with its ancient ambiance and scrumptious delicacies. The Riverside Chateau is a beautiful colonial-style building that offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation. The rooms are tastefully decorated with antique furnishings, providing a perfect blend of modern comfort and old-world charm.Guests can take a leisurely stroll along the riverside relax in the peaceful surroundings. With its rich history, beautiful location, and luxurious amenities, Cranganor History Cafe & Riverside Chateau is the perfect destination for a serene and memorable vacation in Kochi. Overnight stay at Cranganor History Cafe & Riverside Chateau.

Day 2: Cranganor History Cafe
Morning at Leisure, afternoon The British monuments here are very beautiful and a great architectural marvel. At Kodungallur, you will see some old historical churches which are pilgrimage center to many people. visit the Jewish Heritage Museum at Paravur which was built in 1615. It is one of the largest Jewish places to worship in Kerala. The interesting Jewish architecture of the place catches the attention of many travellers. The museum very well displays the history of the Jews in Kerala. The Muziris heritage Project utilizes at a global level the possibilities of a region, which lost its glory centuries ago. Muziris is an ancient port town in little Kerala still holds a kind of beauty that is filled with history and culture. And through the project, we get ready to travel back in time for centuries. What this old port town dishes out to us along with history and culture, are the remnants of its past glory, still observable in features like place-names, architecture, diet etc. Kottapuram market on market day is a sight to behold. A treat for photographers, artists, one could simply stand and watch the auction taking place across truckloads of fresh vegetables, fruits and spices. Visit the jaggery merchant for a taste test of different freshly offloaded jaggery and a quick look at the old oil mill. Move onto KIDS basket weaving centre where differently abled folk weave beautiful baskets, purses, lamps and coasters from screw pine and water hyacinth. The magnificent and all powerful Devi at the Kodungalloor Temple must be met next, make note of the fortune teller ladies with their parrots. End at the Kottappuram fort for a magnificent view of the waters. One would then understand why the Portuguese and Dutch fought over these beautiful waters.

Day 3: Cochin to Purity Malabat at Lake Vembanad
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Fort Kochi. It is a place to experience a melting pot of cultures marked by colourful colonial history. Nestled beside the Arabian Sea, the serene Kochi Beach graces the shores of Fort Kochi, adorned with a picturesque promenade that invites leisurely strolls. The Chinese fishing nets is another popular and iconic tourist destination and a must-visit. It is a symbol of the culture and history of Kerala. It sits beautifully along the seafront and offers picturesque views. St. Francis Church, where the body of the late legendary explorer Vasco da Gama was buried is believed to be the first Portuguese church in India founded in 1503. The church exhibits beautiful Portuguese architecture and a Persian style façade which is a marvel to witness. You can even experience a deeper cultural side of Kochi by seeing a traditional Kathakali dance performance – a classical dance drama of Kerala. Next visit the Dutch Palace, also known as The Mattancherry Palace. Built in 1947 by the Portuguese, the palace boasts a unique architectural style resembling that of a traditional Kerala house. Next visit the famous Jew Street, a charming area steeped in history, where the Kochi Jewish Synagogue dating back to 1567 stands as the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. Explore narrow alleys lined with antique shops in this historical neighbourhood. After a delightful exploration of Kochi, depart for Purity at Lake Vembanad around 03 00 p.m. One hour's drive will take you to the villa hotel located in a fishing village known as Muhamma near Alleppey. After reaching, complete check-in formalities and enjoy the day relaxing in the calming surroundings. Overnight stay at purity Malabar at Lake Vembanad backwater resort

Day 4: Purity at Lake Vembanad
Begin the day with a scrumptious breakfast. Purity at Lake Vembanad is an exquisite lakeside villa hotel situated in a prime location, offering breathtaking views of the expansive Lake Vembanad. Nestled in a serene and peaceful environment, this resort is the perfect oasis for those seeking relaxation and tranquility on their journey.The entire day today is at leisure and you can choose to spend it as you wish. Here are a few suggestions from our end. You can participate in early morning yoga sessions to energize your body and soul for a fulfilling day ahead. You can even participate in an hour long interactive cooking demonstration to get a deeper understanding of the local Kerala cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a Canoe trip with local fishermen man along with other backwater related experiences such as a local canal visit, local area experience with a sunset view and the Chinese fishing net. Overnight stay at Purity at Lake Vembanad.

Day 5: Alleppey to Alleppey Houseboat
In the morning, we travel to Alappuzha and board a deluxe houseboat for an unforgettable overnight cruise. Once common along Kerala's backwaters, these elegant craft were used as cargo vessels. They were poled by one or two men. These eco-friendly houseboats are now gliding through a 1,500km maze of waterways linking small lakes and lagoons, surrounded by coconut trees and endless paddy fields. Relax to the sound of nature and gently rippling waters, and take a stroll through riverside villages, interacting with the locals.

Day 6: Alleppey – Marari beach (The distance between Alleppey and Marari is 15 miles)
Check out at 10 00 clock & depart to Marari beach, Check in at Marari beach around 14 00 Hours Marari Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Marari name has been derived from a local village on the coast of the Arabian Sea “Mararikulum”.  Marari beach in Kerala is titled among the top five Hammock Beaches by National Geographic survey. Marari beach is an ideal location for holidaying with friends and family or for a relaxed getaway. The golden sand and coconut trees along the coastline add to the already existing charm of the place.

Day 7 : Marari Beach Resort
The ideal plan for the day is to begin the morning by taking either a yoga &  meditation class that can be arranged at the resort. Post this delightful experience, you can indulge in a scrumptious breakfast to get started for the day. To enjoy the native feel of this location you can take up a cooking demonstration class that teaches how to use spices in preparing an authentic meal of the region. To truly explore the serenity of this beach scenery, you can also take bicycles and choose to ride them around the vast property. The bicycle tour will let you explore the local culture and get the true feel of the place.Marari Beach is the ideal vacation spot for both solo travellers and families alike. The long beach is graced with lovely golden sands and is dotted with quite a few coconut trees that add to the beauty of this scenic destination. You may retire to your villa for the night and be well-rested for your final day at Marari. Overnight in Marari Beach

Day 8: Marari Beach Resort
Full day is at leisure at Marari beach resort, Enjoy the in-house facilities at Marari beach resort

Day 9: Marari - Cochin International Airport 90 Kms
Marari Beach to Kochi Airport 66 miles from (approx 1 hour &45 minutes drive )and Departure, No doubt that Marari would have won you over with its extraordinary beauty and culture, but alas, it is now time to say goodbye as your vacation ends here. After breakfast, you may check out of the hotel and head to the Kochi airport to catch your flight.