Kerala: Beaches & Backwaters

From

CAD 545

Duration

7 days

Countries

India

Activity

easy

The adventure

Now's the time to explore India on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Watch the sunset through the fishing nets of Kochi, stretch out on white-sand beaches, drift through the tranquil backwaters, and rise at dawn to see the sunrise — trust us, it's worth not hitting snooze. This seven-day tour offers a quick yet intimate introduction to the diversity of south India. Unwind with free time or some yoga, meet the local people, and spend the night with a local family. How's that sound for an authentic cultural experience?

At a glance

Duration

7 days

Route

Kochi → Kochi

Countries

India

Activity level

easy

Style

Beach & Islands, Culture & History, Local Living & Homestays, Rail Journeys, Wellness & Yoga

Group size

Ask

Flights

Not included

Solo travellers

Welcome

Where you'll go

Day by day

Your journey through

India

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalArrive at any time and welcome to the port city of Kochi, known for its unique fishing nets, artsy cafes, and tasty seafood. Get to know your fellow travellers in the seaside neighbourhood of Fort Kochi. Stroll along the tropical backwaters and capture a group photo in the stunning scenery. Pick the best looking spot and cheers to new adventures and friends!

Arrive at any time and welcome to the port city of Kochi, known for its unique fishing nets, artsy cafes, and tasty seafood. Get to know your fellow travellers in the seaside neighbourhood of Fort Kochi. Stroll along the tropical backwaters and capture a group photo in the stunning scenery. Pick the best looking spot and cheers to new adventures and friends!

Day 2Take an orientation walk visiting Fort Kochi

Traditional Chinese fishing nets line the waterfront in Cochin, India on a bright summer day.

Kochi

Take an orientation walk visiting Fort Kochi, St Francis Church, the Dutch cemetery, and the Jewish Quarter with curio shops and a synagogue more than 400-years-old. Then travel to Alleppey, a golden streak of land woven with rivers, lakes, lagoons, and canals. Enjoy an empowering lunch before checking out the island along the lagoon with a local guide and learn about the way of life here. Settle into a homestay and get to know your hosts.

Day 3Explore the unique ecosystem of Alleppey backwaters…

Explore the unique ecosystem of Alleppey backwaters on a morning ferry cruise. Afterward, travel down the coast by bus to the port city of Kollam. On arrival, choose to relax on the beach, climb Thangassery Light House, or peruse the nightlife.

Day 4Visit the Kollam Harbour and experience the importance…

Visit the Kollam Harbour and experience the importance of fishing for the community. Afterward, settle into a private vehicle and see who can count the most palm trees as you cruise down the coast to tropical Varkala. Enjoy lots of free time to explore the town, get treated by local healers, or visit the Varkala Temple.

Day 5Choose your own adventure today

Choose your own adventure today, exploring Varkala solo or with your new friends. Spend time wandering the peaceful gardens of an ashram devoted to Kerala's most eminent spiritual and social reformer at the mystical Janardhana Swamy Temple. Or head to the beach and relax while watching the Arabian Sea with a drink in hand.

Day 6Return to Kochi by train

Kochi

Return to Kochi by train. In the late afternoon, continue to wander the streets or opt to catch a traditional Kathakali dance performance. For your big night out as a group, immerse yourself in the exciting Kochi nightlife and reminisce about the life-changing adventures you've shared.

Day 7Today is departure day

Today is departure day, but do not fear, there is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Hug your new friends, exchange contacts, and depart at any time.

Traveller reviews

“Very enjoyable week with an interesting mix of ages, 23-78, 5 nationalities, and a variety of backgrounds. A youngish guide who was on the ball when things did not go quite to plan especially transport! e.g. transfer to a public bus when a fault occurred half at way stop to…”

“very nice and relaxing tour through south of India, very nice and hard working tour leader, nice group, good hotels, perfect overall organization”

“our tour leader was great, he had lots of interesting ideas for optional programs!I enjoyed also the accommodations, all hotels and home stays were very comfortable and nice.”