Kerala Culinary Tour

“A Keralan adventure blending fine dining, cooking demos and heritage with stunning backwaters, hill stations and beaches“

from US $ 4720 pp

Your Preferred Travel Date

Travelers / Rooms

2 Adult/ 0 Children/ 1 Room

Room 1

Adults (Over 18)

Children (Ages 0-17)

Add Room

Toll Free +1-800-227-1393

Tour Highlights

Traditional Cuisine
Cookery Demonstrations
Ginger Warehouse
Tea plantation
Natural Dye Factory
Spice Plantation
Boat Cruise
Historical Tours

about this tour

This 11-day Kerala adventure is a culinary journey that explores the state's rich flavors and cultural heritage. The tour starts in Cochin with fine dining experiences and hands-on cooking demonstrations unlocking the secrets of Kerala's cuisine, influenced by its long history of spice trade with ancient civilizations like Rome and China. Additionally, the unique blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian traditions have shaped Kerala's food with a diverse range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes using local ingredients like coconut and seafood. In Munnar, visit lush tea plantations and a spice plantation, the source of Kerala's fragrant dishes. Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and encounter diverse wildlife and flora. Discover Kerala's art forms and folklore through Kathakali dance and museum visits. The tour concludes in Kumarakom, where secluded beaches, palm-fringed backwaters, and serene beauty complete this unforgettable adventure.

Step into a vast warehouse with high ceilings and a sweet, earthy scent hanging in the air; a ginger warehouse. In the courtyard, ginger dries under the sun, part of a process rooted in centuries of trade. India produces over a third of the world’s ginger today, a sharp decline from its near-total dominance in the medieval spice trade. In the 15th century, ginger was so valuable that a master carpenter’s daily wage in London could buy just 300 grams. It’s no surprise that such prized spices helped shape the course of global trade.

1
Arrival Day
You will be welcomed in the arrivals hall by your driver for your private transfer to your accommodation. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure to relax and refresh before you embark upon your Finest Journeys adventure.

view
highlights

Forte Kochi
overnight
You will be welcomed in the arrivals hall by your driver for your private transfer to your accommodation. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure to relax and refresh…
Forte Kochi
Ideal for beach holidaymakers, this boutique hotel lies in the heart of Kochi, near the sea. The hotel has 27 non-smoking rooms. The reception desk in the lobby is staffed round the clock. Amenities available at the hotel include a baggage storage service and a safe. Wireless internet access is provided in public areas. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The hotel has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. A garden provides extra space for rest and relaxation in the open air. Additional amenities include a TV room and a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service, a coin-operated laundry and a hotel shuttle bus. Active guests can make use of the bicycle hire service to explore the surrounding area. Complimentary newspapers are available. A fax machine is available for guests' business needs. Central heating ensures that rooms maintain comfortable temperatures. Amenities include a trouser press and WiFi (no extra charge). Wheelchair-accessible rooms can also be booked. Family rooms are available for parents with children. Guests can go for a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool complex. There is a children's swimming area as well. A short break or an entire afternoon on the sun terrace, which features sun loungers and parasols, is time well spent. The hot tub in the pool area promises pure relaxation. There are many ways to relax or stay active at the hotel, including cycling/mountain biking, yoga and a spa. The hotel includes a café. Guests can indulge their palates at the non-smoking restaurant, which features air conditioning and a separate area for smokers. Breakfast and lunch are served every day. There are meals available for those with special dietary requirements: diet meals and children's meals. The hotel also offers special catering options.
2
Tour of Cochin
In the morning, visit the Dutch Palace. The Dutch Palace or Mattancherry Palace is a property that was given as a gift from the Portuguese to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma as a gesture of goodwill in 1555 after the Portuguese ravaged a temple nearby. The Dutch later renovated the palace in 1663 following which it became popularly known as the Dutch Palace. This awe-inspiring palace today stands as one of the finest museums in India from historical, cultural and architectural perspectives. The palace is a two-storeyed structure, built in traditional Kerala naalukettu (quadrangular) model with four separate wings opening into a central courtyard. Transfer for a traditional lunch – Sadhya – at a local home. Sadhya is a feast of Kerala origin, consisting of a variety of traditional vegetarian dishes usually served on a banana leaf as lunch. The main dish is plain boiled rice, served along with other dishes collectively. Witness traditional Kathakali dance performances. Kathakali dance drama is one of India's most remarkable performing arts. An operatic spectacle involving pantomime, abstract dance, singing, instrumental accompaniment, and elaborate, stylized costumes and makeup, it is truly a multimedia presentation. Kathakali, which means "story play," was developed in the 17th century in Kerala as a courtly dance drama enacting mythic stories of the Hindu gods and goddesses. Dinner at The History Fine Dining restaurant – “Cooking Up a Melting Pot” with influences from the Portuguese and the Dutch perfected into traditional dishes by the Syrian Christians and Jews of Cochin – each dish at the restaurant is steeped in history and approached with a hint of modernity.

Kathakali dance
Kathakali dance
view
highlights

Forte Kochi
overnight
In the morning, visit the Dutch Palace. The Dutch Palace or Mattancherry Palace is a property that was given as a gift from the Portuguese to the Raja of Kochi,…
Forte Kochi
Ideal for beach holidaymakers, this boutique hotel lies in the heart of Kochi, near the sea. The hotel has 27 non-smoking rooms. The reception desk in the lobby is staffed round the clock. Amenities available at the hotel include a baggage storage service and a safe. Wireless internet access is provided in public areas. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The hotel has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. A garden provides extra space for rest and relaxation in the open air. Additional amenities include a TV room and a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service, a coin-operated laundry and a hotel shuttle bus. Active guests can make use of the bicycle hire service to explore the surrounding area. Complimentary newspapers are available. A fax machine is available for guests' business needs. Central heating ensures that rooms maintain comfortable temperatures. Amenities include a trouser press and WiFi (no extra charge). Wheelchair-accessible rooms can also be booked. Family rooms are available for parents with children. Guests can go for a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool complex. There is a children's swimming area as well. A short break or an entire afternoon on the sun terrace, which features sun loungers and parasols, is time well spent. The hot tub in the pool area promises pure relaxation. There are many ways to relax or stay active at the hotel, including cycling/mountain biking, yoga and a spa. The hotel includes a café. Guests can indulge their palates at the non-smoking restaurant, which features air conditioning and a separate area for smokers. Breakfast and lunch are served every day. There are meals available for those with special dietary requirements: diet meals and children's meals. The hotel also offers special catering options.
3
Exploring the city
A guided walk around the Fort Cochin area to Santa Cruz Basalica. Then proceed to Dutch Cemetery. The Cemetery was consecrated in 1724 and is today managed by the Church of South India, is the resting place of many imperial inhabitants, voyagers who left their homelands centuries ago to propagate and expand their empire. Proceed to St. Francis Church. The Church is originally built in 1503, is one of the oldest European churches in India and has great historical significance as a mute witness to the European colonial struggle in the subcontinent. The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama died in Kochi in 1524 when he was on his third visit to India. His body was originally buried in this church, but after fourteen years his remains were moved to Lisbon. Transfer to the lunch venue; Nimmy Paul’s. Enjoy this lunch with a cooking demo by Nimmy Paul with her signature menu of a Syrian Christian meal. Nimmy and her husband Paul, old time residents of the city offering excellent food and hospitality to guests from the world over. Proceed to visit the Kerala Folklore Museum. Kerala Folklore Museum has various antiques that showcase the history, tradition and cultural differences of different parts of the country, especially south India. There are costumes of dance forms like Mohiniattam and Theyyam. Antique properties such as the oldest Bible, old writings instruments, antique chairs etc. are showcased here.

Indian Food
Indian Food
Indian Food
highlights

Forte Kochi
overnight
A guided walk around the Fort Cochin area to Santa Cruz Basalica. Then proceed to Dutch Cemetery. The Cemetery was consecrated in 1724 and is today managed by the Church…
Forte Kochi
Ideal for beach holidaymakers, this boutique hotel lies in the heart of Kochi, near the sea. The hotel has 27 non-smoking rooms. The reception desk in the lobby is staffed round the clock. Amenities available at the hotel include a baggage storage service and a safe. Wireless internet access is provided in public areas. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The hotel has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. A garden provides extra space for rest and relaxation in the open air. Additional amenities include a TV room and a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service, a coin-operated laundry and a hotel shuttle bus. Active guests can make use of the bicycle hire service to explore the surrounding area. Complimentary newspapers are available. A fax machine is available for guests' business needs. Central heating ensures that rooms maintain comfortable temperatures. Amenities include a trouser press and WiFi (no extra charge). Wheelchair-accessible rooms can also be booked. Family rooms are available for parents with children. Guests can go for a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool complex. There is a children's swimming area as well. A short break or an entire afternoon on the sun terrace, which features sun loungers and parasols, is time well spent. The hot tub in the pool area promises pure relaxation. There are many ways to relax or stay active at the hotel, including cycling/mountain biking, yoga and a spa. The hotel includes a café. Guests can indulge their palates at the non-smoking restaurant, which features air conditioning and a separate area for smokers. Breakfast and lunch are served every day. There are meals available for those with special dietary requirements: diet meals and children's meals. The hotel also offers special catering options.
4
Ginger Warehouse on Rikshaw
An Auto rikshaw ride to visit a Ginger Warehouse - the historic spice trade Centre, which is very much alive in the streets of Kochi and this makes it so unique. This area of Ginger warehouses, heaps of dried & semi dried ginger can be seen relaxing in the sun outside on the verandahs. Proceed to Jew Town - the heart of Kochi’s Jewish community, Jew Town is known for the Paradesi Synagogue, quaint shops which sell antiques, souvenirs, vintage collectibles, craft, spices, etc. Experience today the taste of Mappila Cuisine of Kerala. Mappila or Muslim cuisine is a fascinating blend of traditional Kerala and Arab food culture. This amazing confluence of two culinary cultures are best seen in different types of Biryanis. Transfer to a local home to enjoy a traditional Mappila Biryani.

church
Mappila Biryani
Mappila Biryani.
highlights

Forte Kochi
overnight
An Auto rikshaw ride to visit a Ginger Warehouse - the historic spice trade Centre, which is very much alive in the streets of Kochi and this makes it so…
Forte Kochi
Ideal for beach holidaymakers, this boutique hotel lies in the heart of Kochi, near the sea. The hotel has 27 non-smoking rooms. The reception desk in the lobby is staffed round the clock. Amenities available at the hotel include a baggage storage service and a safe. Wireless internet access is provided in public areas. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The hotel has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. A garden provides extra space for rest and relaxation in the open air. Additional amenities include a TV room and a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service, a coin-operated laundry and a hotel shuttle bus. Active guests can make use of the bicycle hire service to explore the surrounding area. Complimentary newspapers are available. A fax machine is available for guests' business needs. Central heating ensures that rooms maintain comfortable temperatures. Amenities include a trouser press and WiFi (no extra charge). Wheelchair-accessible rooms can also be booked. Family rooms are available for parents with children. Guests can go for a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool complex. There is a children's swimming area as well. A short break or an entire afternoon on the sun terrace, which features sun loungers and parasols, is time well spent. The hot tub in the pool area promises pure relaxation. There are many ways to relax or stay active at the hotel, including cycling/mountain biking, yoga and a spa. The hotel includes a café. Guests can indulge their palates at the non-smoking restaurant, which features air conditioning and a separate area for smokers. Breakfast and lunch are served every day. There are meals available for those with special dietary requirements: diet meals and children's meals. The hotel also offers special catering options.
5
Transfer to Munnar
After breakfast, leave by road for an overwhelming scenic journey to Munnar. Stopover for refreshments. Located at an altitude of over 6000 feet above sea level, Munnar ranks among the most beautiful hill stations in South Asia. Majestic mountains, lush green forests, pristine mountain streams and sprawling tea, coffee & cardamom plantations give Munnar its unique charm and beauty. It is the home of the endangered Nilgiri Thar (ibex) that roams on a stretch of grassland or is seen climbing the pinnacles of the undulating hills. Arrive Munnar & Check in at the hotel and enjoy a late lunch. Walk through this green paradise or rolling tea plantations, trekking tracks and breathing waterfalls to experience intriguing beauty.

tea
India
highlights

Chandys Drizzle Drops
overnight
After breakfast, leave by road for an overwhelming scenic journey to Munnar. Stopover for refreshments. Located at an altitude of over 6000 feet above sea level, Munnar ranks among the…
Chandys Drizzle Drops
This hotel welcomes guests in Munnar. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities available at the resort include a baggage storage service and a safe. Wireless internet access in public areas allows guests to stay connected. The resort offers a number of facilities for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. The grounds of the resort feature a playground and a lovely garden. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services include a 24-hour security service, a car hire service, room service, an alarm call service, a laundry service and a hotel shuttle bus. Guests can also use the bicycle storage facilities. Rooms are equipped with a fan. Guests can enjoy the mountain view from a balcony or terrace. The rooms have a king-size bed and a sofa bed. Extra beds can be requested. A minibar and a desk are also available. Guests will also find a tea/coffee station included among the standard features. A telephone, a television with satellite/cable channels, an alarm clock and WiFi (no extra charge) are provided as well. Slippers are included. Bathrooms are equipped with a shower and a bathtub, as well as a hairdryer. Cosmetic products and a selection of towels provide additional comfort in the bathrooms. The resort has family rooms and non-smoking rooms. There are indoor and outdoor pools and a children's swimming area. Fine weather can be enjoyed on the terrace. The hot tub in the pool area promises pure relaxation. For guests who wish to keep active, cycling/mountain biking and golf are available. Sports enthusiasts are also offered a wide range of indoor activities, including a gym, table tennis, billiards and darts. Various wellness options are available at the resort, including a spa, a sauna, a steam bath and massage treatments. An entertainment programme and a kids' club are also options for entertainment. Various dining options are available, including a restaurant, a café and a bar. A continental breakfast buffet guarantees a great start to the day. Staff are also happy to provide children's meals.
6
Tea Estate & Tea Museum visit
An easy and interesting way to learn about your daily cuppa tea is to visit a tea plantation and a tea museum. Visit a tea estate and experience the activities of tea plucking and its processing in a factory and a tea museum with video explanations. Tamil Lunch at the Tea Estate A typical Tamil lunch is like a Kerala Sadhya with a few geographical taste differences. Tamil dishes are served in a traditional manner, using banana leaves in place of utensils. On the return visit Aranya Naturals, a natural dyeing unit using ethnic dyeing techniques and vibrant colours. Heritage crafts like Batik, Tie and Dye, Shibori, Mordant Painting and Block Printing are used to create meticulous designs on the fabric. Raw materials used for the colouring include catechu, lac, manjista, turmeric, eucalyptus and other natural ingredients

tea
tea
Indian Food
highlights

Chandys Drizzle Drops
overnight
An easy and interesting way to learn about your daily cuppa tea is to visit a tea plantation and a tea museum. Visit a tea estate and experience the activities…
Chandys Drizzle Drops
This hotel welcomes guests in Munnar. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities available at the resort include a baggage storage service and a safe. Wireless internet access in public areas allows guests to stay connected. The resort offers a number of facilities for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. The grounds of the resort feature a playground and a lovely garden. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services include a 24-hour security service, a car hire service, room service, an alarm call service, a laundry service and a hotel shuttle bus. Guests can also use the bicycle storage facilities. Rooms are equipped with a fan. Guests can enjoy the mountain view from a balcony or terrace. The rooms have a king-size bed and a sofa bed. Extra beds can be requested. A minibar and a desk are also available. Guests will also find a tea/coffee station included among the standard features. A telephone, a television with satellite/cable channels, an alarm clock and WiFi (no extra charge) are provided as well. Slippers are included. Bathrooms are equipped with a shower and a bathtub, as well as a hairdryer. Cosmetic products and a selection of towels provide additional comfort in the bathrooms. The resort has family rooms and non-smoking rooms. There are indoor and outdoor pools and a children's swimming area. Fine weather can be enjoyed on the terrace. The hot tub in the pool area promises pure relaxation. For guests who wish to keep active, cycling/mountain biking and golf are available. Sports enthusiasts are also offered a wide range of indoor activities, including a gym, table tennis, billiards and darts. Various wellness options are available at the resort, including a spa, a sauna, a steam bath and massage treatments. An entertainment programme and a kids' club are also options for entertainment. Various dining options are available, including a restaurant, a café and a bar. A continental breakfast buffet guarantees a great start to the day. Staff are also happy to provide children's meals.
7
Periyar tour
The spice plantations in Thekkady are a prime attraction of this beautiful land. Though sprawling tea estates cover much of the landscape of Thekkady, plantations of cardamom, rubber, vanilla and coffee are also aplenty. Enjoy a tour of a spice plantation. Walk amidst the green, terraced farms in Thekkady, while you hear the murmuring sound of the rippling stream. Taste the various spices and breathe in the fragrant air while exploring the spice plantation. Pick up a few packets of the tea and spices grown here that make for a good buy. There are various kinds of spices cultivated here. The most abundantly found spice in Thekkady is pepper. But there is a variety of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric and curry leaves on the slanting slopes of the spice plantations in Thekkady Cooking demo & dinner This evening you may choose to learn some cooking! The chef will conduct a cooking demonstration. There will be two Kerala dishes – one vegetarian and one non-vegetarian. The chef will cook in front of you; followed by a buffet dinner at the hotel restaurant.

spice plantation
Spices
spices
highlights

Hills & Hues
overnight
The spice plantations in Thekkady are a prime attraction of this beautiful land. Though sprawling tea estates cover much of the landscape of Thekkady, plantations of cardamom, rubber, vanilla and…
Hills & Hues
Located in Thekkady, this hotel is ideal for those in need of an adults-only holiday. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities include a baggage storage service, a safe and a currency exchange service. Wireless internet access is provided in public areas. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The resort has wheelchair-accessible facilities. Everyday necessities can be purchased at the supermarket. The grounds of the complex feature a playground and a lovely garden. Additional facilities include a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, 24-hour room service, an alarm call service, a laundry service, a coin-operated laundry and a hotel shuttle bus. Complimentary newspapers are available. The business centre is on hand for guests' business requirements and provides a fax machine. Air conditioning, central heating and a fan ensure that rooms maintain comfortable temperatures. Guests can enjoy the mountain view from a balcony or terrace. Rooms have a double bed, a queen-size bed or a king-size bed. Extra beds can be requested. A safe, a minibar and a desk are also available. Guests will also find a tea/coffee station included among the standard features. There is also an ironing set and a trouser press. A telephone, a television with satellite/cable channels, an alarm clock and WiFi (no extra charge) provide all the essentials for a comfortable holiday. Amenities provided in the rooms include slippers and a daily paper. Bathrooms are equipped with a shower and a hairdryer. As a special feature, bathrooms are also stocked with cosmetic products and a selection of towels. The resort has family rooms, non-smoking rooms and smoking rooms. There are indoor and outdoor pools and a children's swimming area. A sun terrace is a great place to while away the hours. There is a poolside snack bar as well. For those who wish to stay active while on holiday, the resort offers golf. Sport and leisure facilities at the complex include table tennis and yoga. Various wellness options are available at the resort, including a spa, a sauna, a steam bath and massage treatments. The resort offers plenty of activities and entertainment options, including an entertainment programme, a kids' club and live music. The resort includes a restaurant and a café. A continental breakfast buffet and lunch are served every day. Diet meals and children's meals can be prepared on request. In addition, special catering options and picnics are available.
8
Transfer to Kumarakom
Welcome to an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald-green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white Lillies - this is Kumarakom. The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and this small water world is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres, is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live here in flocks are a fascination for visitors. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands. Arrive and check-in at hotel. A short boat cruise on the Vembanad lake is arranged by the hotel.

India
India
India
highlights

Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa Kumarakom
overnight
Welcome to an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald-green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white Lillies - this is Kumarakom. The…
Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa Kumarakom
This resort welcomes guests in Kumarakom. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities available at the resort include a baggage storage service, a safe and a currency exchange service. Wireless internet access in public areas allows guests to stay connected. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The resort has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. The complex has wheelchair-accessible facilities and a lift. Souvenirs can be purchased at the gift shop. The grounds of the resort feature a playground and a lovely garden. Additional amenities include a playroom and a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service and a hairdresser. Rooms have a queen-size bed or a king-size bed. Extra beds can be requested. In the rooms guests will find a trouser press and WiFi (no extra charge). The resort has family rooms and non-smoking rooms. There are indoor and outdoor pools as well as a children's swimming area. Guests can relax and enjoy the sun loungers and parasols provided. The pool bar serves a selection of refreshing drinks. For guests who wish to keep active, cycling/mountain biking, golf and fishing are available. Sports enthusiasts are also offered a wide range of indoor activities, including a gym, table tennis, billiards and yoga. Various wellness options are available at the resort, including a spa, a sauna, a steam bath and massage treatments. Children are well looked after in the kids' club. Various dining options are available, including a restaurant, a café and a bar. A continental breakfast buffet and lunch offer culinary delights every day. Staff are also happy to provide children's meals.
9
Explore Kumarakom
Transfer to Kottayam to visit Cheriya Palli (Small Church) & Valia Palli (Grand Church) Kottayam Cheriapally is one of the oldest Churches in Kerala. Built in 1579, the Church is well preserved. The architectural style of the church is European, with galleries, pillars, cornices and pediments. The walls are adorned with beautiful murals made in Oriental and Western styles on biblical and non-biblical themes. Kottayam Valiapally. The Church was built in the year 1550 AD by the descendants of the Syrian Knanaya Christians who migrated to India in 345 A.D., from Jerusalem and nearby places under the leadership of Kana Thoma. This Church is famous for its two granite crosses known as Persian crosses. On each of the stone slabs, there is a cross with an inscription in the Pahalavi language, which was the official language of the Sassanian dynasty in Persia. The inscriptions in Pahalavi are the same on both slabs except for the additional inscription in Syriac (in Estrangelo script) on the big slab placed on the southern altar. The most acceptable interpretation reads as follows: "In punishment by the cross (was) the suffering on this one; He who is true God and God above, and Guide ever Pure."

Proceed to Philipkutty’s Farm for lunch and a farm visit. The farm is located on a small farm island in the backwaters / Vembanad Lake next to Kumarakom within the Vechoor village limits. The farm is about 50 acres (owned by the family and some relatives) and is the largest farm on the island. The island is a reclaimed property which was made in the early 1950’s. The late Philipkutty undertook further development on the farm by bringing in a system of inter-crop farming. The island is called Puthankayal (‘Puthan’ means new) as it was the last island to have been reclaimed in the backwater region for agriculture. Cooking Demo followed by Sadhya lunch An escorted farm walk with one of the family members to learn about farming below lake level as well as the different crops cultivated.

field
field
highlights

Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa Kumarakom
overnight
Transfer to Kottayam to visit Cheriya Palli (Small Church) & Valia Palli (Grand Church) Kottayam Cheriapally is one of the oldest Churches in Kerala. Built in 1579, the Church is…
Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa Kumarakom
This resort welcomes guests in Kumarakom. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities available at the resort include a baggage storage service, a safe and a currency exchange service. Wireless internet access in public areas allows guests to stay connected. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The resort has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. The complex has wheelchair-accessible facilities and a lift. Souvenirs can be purchased at the gift shop. The grounds of the resort feature a playground and a lovely garden. Additional amenities include a playroom and a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service and a hairdresser. Rooms have a queen-size bed or a king-size bed. Extra beds can be requested. In the rooms guests will find a trouser press and WiFi (no extra charge). The resort has family rooms and non-smoking rooms. There are indoor and outdoor pools as well as a children's swimming area. Guests can relax and enjoy the sun loungers and parasols provided. The pool bar serves a selection of refreshing drinks. For guests who wish to keep active, cycling/mountain biking, golf and fishing are available. Sports enthusiasts are also offered a wide range of indoor activities, including a gym, table tennis, billiards and yoga. Various wellness options are available at the resort, including a spa, a sauna, a steam bath and massage treatments. Children are well looked after in the kids' club. Various dining options are available, including a restaurant, a café and a bar. A continental breakfast buffet and lunch offer culinary delights every day. Staff are also happy to provide children's meals.
10
Kettuvallam Houseboat Day Cruise
Drive to the jetty to board a traditional houseboat – “kettuvallam” for a fascinating day cruise through the backwaters. Begin your full-day journey through the picturesque backwaters and the small lakes relaxing in the tranquillity of Kerala’s beautiful scenery and some lovely inland lagoons, fringed by thin green necklaces of vegetation. You are on the boats' forward sundeck, comfortably ensconced in a rosewood-and-cane easy chair. Your boat moves towards the mouth of the Kavanar River at a scorching 6 miles an hour. It would be a fight to keep your eyelids from closing, except that a refreshingly soft breeze angles in westerly direction, off the Vembanad Lake. It carries the cries of distant birds, surprisingly loud over the waters. You move upstream, and the gentle life of another world unfolds around you.

Farewell dinner at the hotel. A beautiful ambience and an abundance of locally sources fresh sea food will enrich tonight’s unforgettable dinner.

boat
boat
highlights

Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa Kumarakom
overnight
Drive to the jetty to board a traditional houseboat – “kettuvallam” for a fascinating day cruise through the backwaters. Begin your full-day journey through the picturesque backwaters and the small…
Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa Kumarakom
This resort welcomes guests in Kumarakom. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities available at the resort include a baggage storage service, a safe and a currency exchange service. Wireless internet access in public areas allows guests to stay connected. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The resort has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. The complex has wheelchair-accessible facilities and a lift. Souvenirs can be purchased at the gift shop. The grounds of the resort feature a playground and a lovely garden. Additional amenities include a playroom and a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service and a hairdresser. Rooms have a queen-size bed or a king-size bed. Extra beds can be requested. In the rooms guests will find a trouser press and WiFi (no extra charge). The resort has family rooms and non-smoking rooms. There are indoor and outdoor pools as well as a children's swimming area. Guests can relax and enjoy the sun loungers and parasols provided. The pool bar serves a selection of refreshing drinks. For guests who wish to keep active, cycling/mountain biking, golf and fishing are available. Sports enthusiasts are also offered a wide range of indoor activities, including a gym, table tennis, billiards and yoga. Various wellness options are available at the resort, including a spa, a sauna, a steam bath and massage treatments. Children are well looked after in the kids' club. Various dining options are available, including a restaurant, a café and a bar. A continental breakfast buffet and lunch offer culinary delights every day. Staff are also happy to provide children's meals.
11
Last Day
Enjoy the rest of the time at leisure. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight back.

India
India
highlights

Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa Kumarakom
overnight
Enjoy the rest of the time at leisure. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight back.
Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa Kumarakom
This resort welcomes guests in Kumarakom. The friendly staff at the reception desk are happy to answer any questions. Amenities available at the resort include a baggage storage service, a safe and a currency exchange service. Wireless internet access in public areas allows guests to stay connected. The tour desk offers assistance with booking excursions. The resort has a range of facilities for guests with disabilities. The complex has wheelchair-accessible facilities and a lift. Souvenirs can be purchased at the gift shop. The grounds of the resort feature a playground and a lovely garden. Additional amenities include a playroom and a library. Guests arriving by car can park their vehicles in the car park for no extra charge. Further services and facilities include a 24-hour security service, a babysitting service, a childcare service, a car hire service, medical assistance, a transfer service, room service, a laundry service and a hairdresser. Rooms have a queen-size bed or a king-size bed. Extra beds can be requested. In the rooms guests will find a trouser press and WiFi (no extra charge). The resort has family rooms and non-smoking rooms. There are indoor and outdoor pools as well as a children's swimming area. Guests can relax and enjoy the sun loungers and parasols provided. The pool bar serves a selection of refreshing drinks. For guests who wish to keep active, cycling/mountain biking, golf and fishing are available. Sports enthusiasts are also offered a wide range of indoor activities, including a gym, table tennis, billiards and yoga. Various wellness options are available at the resort, including a spa, a sauna, a steam bath and massage treatments. Children are well looked after in the kids' club. Various dining options are available, including a restaurant, a café and a bar. A continental breakfast buffet and lunch offer culinary delights every day. Staff are also happy to provide children's meals.

Why Book With Us?

Our in-country expert

With over 25 of experience in varied aspects of travel and most recently 15 years in creating the finest travel itineraries, Mona brings to the organization a spectrum of experience, strong relationships and a passion for showcasing the best of India and the subcontinent. A people’s person with a zeal for travel in India and...

Mona Kapour

Planning a vacation in ' India'? We will have new tours coming soon, but in the meantime let our ' India' experts create a custom itinerary for you. Just let us have your "wish list" and dates using our booking form and we will have a detailed trip itinerary ready for you within 48 hours. If you prefer just call us on +1 800 227 1393

Recommended tours in India

How We Work

EXPLORE THIS JOURNEY

Book this trip with your choice of hotels and the option to add extra nights at the start or end of your trip.

CUSTOMIZE THIS JOURNEY

Create your dream trip with the assistance of Finest Journeys expert travel consultants.

CRAFT MY OWN JOURNEY

Build your own dream trip with our easy to use trip planning tools

The choice is yours and the Finest Journeys team are always here to help and our concierges and in-country teams will look after you throughout your journey from booking until return.

How We Work

1-Enquire

Fill out our form or give us a call on 1-800-227-1393 to tell us more about your trip.

2-Talk With Us

An expert will get in touch the following day to help you curate your bespoke tour itinerary.

3-Trip Creation

We'll take care of every detail to bring your dream trip to life.

4-Confirmation

You will receive an email from our team confirming all of the important details about your trip.

5-Travel With Ease

Our concierges and in-country teams will look after you throughout your journey from booking until return.

Words From our Travelers

Customize this tour to create your dream trip Kerala Culinary Tour

Share with us any special requests, wish-list experiences or changes we should include in your customized trip. Our expert travel consultants will then adapt this tour to your specific requirements and then send your customized itinerary for your review and approval or for further modification. At any stage in building your customized tour, you can contact your dedicated Finest Journeys travel consultant by telephone, email or online chat to discuss options or for answers to any queries.

Who & When?

Departure date

No. of Nights

Number of Adults

Number of Children U12

Number of Infants U2

About you

First Name

Family Name

Email address

Phone number

Budget for my party

Kerala Culinary Tour

from US $ 4720 pp

"Kerala Culinary Tour"

Room 1

Toll Free +1-800-227-1393

Tour Highlights

Traditional Cuisine Cookery Demonstrations Ginger Warehouse Tea plantation Natural Dye Factory Spice Plantation Boat Cruise Historical Tours

about this tour

about this tour

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

highlights

overnight

Any questions or queries aboutthis trip?

Why Book With Us?

Our in-country expert

Recommended tours in India

Culinary Delights of India

The Heart of Rajasthan

Classic Kerala

Classic Rajasthan

Romantic India with Darjeeling

Kerala Culinary Tour

Romantic India & Goa

Splendors of North India

Wildlife in Central India

How We Work

EXPLORE THIS JOURNEY

CUSTOMIZE THIS JOURNEY

CRAFT MY OWN JOURNEY

How We Work

1-Enquire

2-Talk With Us

3-Trip Creation

4-Confirmation

5-Travel With Ease

Words From our Travelers

Enriching lives with

Authentic travel experiences

Our Office Locations

usa

Europe

DEstinations

Travel Insurance

Our Blog

about us

Privacy & Security

Terms & Conditions

Sign Up for our Newsletter

Contact Us

whatsapp

SUBSCRIBE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS

Traditional Cuisine
Cookery Demonstrations
Ginger Warehouse
Tea plantation
Natural Dye Factory
Spice Plantation
Boat Cruise
Historical Tours

Any questions or
queries about
this trip?

SUBSCRIBE FOR
SPECIAL OFFERS