Kerala Spice Trail

Explore beautiful southern India with our Kerala Spice Trail tour. From relaxing on golden beaches to trekking through the National Parks you will be able to sample some of the best of southern India.
Mahindra Homestays have prepared this special seven day itinerary, which can be tailored to suit your interests. Instead of sharing your experience with a large tour group you will be able to enjoy your own private tour using local drivers and staying with Indian families in their beautiful homestays. They will be happy to share with you the local highlights and will welcome you with warm hospitality and delicious home cooked cuisine. This itinerary combines fantastic value with responsible tourism.

Day 1: Cochin

On your arrival in Cochin you will be picked up and taken to Noah’s Ark homestay where your hosts Jerry and Diana Kocherry will welcome you into their bright and cheerful home. Spend the afternoon sightseeing, the Chinese Fishing Nets and beach are just five minutes away, or take a tour to Vasco De Gama’s burial ground. St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica or the Dutch cemetery which are also popular local sites to visit.

Day 2: Cochin

Spend the day relaxing on the beach and exploring the local area. Enjoy a local cultural show with a music and dance recital and perhaps enjoy some shopping in Ernakulam.

Day 3: Munnar

After an early start visit an Elephant Training Camp travel along winding hilltop roads to Munnar where you will check into Ranger Woods where you will find a warm welcome from your host Mr. Sunil. The family’s ancestors were involved in the plantation business and Mr. Sunil’s father used to own a cardamom plantation. They know an enormous amount about the spices grown in Munnar and will accompany you on a plantation walk. The area behind the house is packed with spices, vegetation and fruit trees such as passion fruit. The combination of Munnar’s refreshing climate, its High Range hilltops and luxuriant spice and tea gardens makes it an exceptional holiday destination.

Day 4: Munnar

Enjoy a visit to the Rajamalai National Park, Tea Museum and Athukadu Waterfalls. There are many activities offered around Munnar and your homestay hosts will be happy to make arrangements for you. Spend the afternoon shopping for spices in town.

Day 5: Thekkady

Get an early start and reach Thekkady by late morning where you will check into Pepper County. The house looks out onto spectacular views across hills and plantations, and Cyriac himself owns a plantation consisting mainly off pepper and cardamom with many other spices and fruits, such as chillis, cashews, cinnamon and jackfruit. Take a boat ride at Periyar National Park and come back to your homestay for a plantation walk.

Day 6: Alleppey

Get an early start and reach Alleppey by lunch time. With its interconnecting canals and wealthy trading history, Alleppey is often known as “The Venice of the East” and there is plenty to explore. Take some time and have a relaxed lunch at your homestay, Dazzle Dew. In the evening visit 16th century Church and spend the evening at the beach. Come back for a session of night fishing and dinner.

Day 7: Alleppey

An Ayurvedic Massage on an empty stomach early in the morning is a must. Come back for breakfast and relax for a while. Take a half a day Houseboat ride. In the evening your host can have a cooking demonstration if you like or you can walk in the village before enjoying dinner on your final night.

Your Kerala Spice Trail includes:
Seven nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. A private driver will be available for all ground transfers which includes airport pick up and drop off, inner city travel and sight seeing throughout the day. You will also be able to enjoy complimentary internet access, laundry services and tea or coffee anytime during the day as part of the package.

If you have any questions about making a booking please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. Our trained reservations team will be happy to help.

India
1 800 425 2737
(Toll Free)

United Kingdom
(0) 20 3140 8422
(Local call from all UK)

International
+91 44 3027 7712

Take a tour that is individually tailored for your needs and interests, promoting responsible tourism using local guides and staying in family homestays.

Mahindra Homestays

At a glance