Kerala - On The Spice TrailKerala, India

According to legend, Parasurama, a warrior sage, threw his spear into the sea and reclaimed the land of Kerala from the waters - And what a truly beautiful land it is.

Rightfully included as one of ’50 places to see in a lifetime’ by National Geographic, this state which occupies a strip along India’s south-west coast has been influenced by years of passing trade from all corners of the world – the Dutch Palace and Chinese fishing nets in Cochin stand testament to this colourful history, and dhows (traditional ocean going vessels commonly used in the Middle East) are still built along Kerala’s northern shores, to ply the trade routes between India and Arabia.

Kerala is home to the traditional medicine of Ayurveda, and many of the hotels here have excellent Ayurveda facilities, where you have the opportunity to sample this ancient form of well-being.

From the vibrant port city of Cochin, to the spice gardens of the highlands; the rich wildlife parks to the picturesque backwaters - a network of palm fringed lakes and canals; and miles of sandy beaches dotted with charming fishing villages, this incredible destination has something for everyone. Kerala is the perfect choice for the first time visitor to India and the experienced India hand alike, and this tour combines some of the best experiences that this region has to offer.

What's on offer

• Discover the sights of BBC’s ‘The Real Marigold Hotel’

• Cruise on Chochin’s waterways and Kerala’s unique backwaters

• Visit Periyar Tiger Reserve and a spice plantation

• Explore the quaint fishing villages and palm fringed beaches of Mararikulam

Itinerary

DAY 1 - Depart from Glasgow

DAY 2 - Cochin - Sunset Cruise

DAY 3 - Fort Cochin

DAY 4 - Cochin - Periyar

DAY 5 - Periyar Lake

DAY 6 - Periyar - Kumarakom

DAY 7 - Kumarakom – day at leisure

DAY 8 - Kumarakom - Mararikulam

DAY 9 - Mararikulam – day at leisure

DAY 10 - Fly back to Glasgow

Offer not valid for departures 21 June to 9 August 2017. Book by 15 April 2017.

Kerala - On The Spice Trail is located in Kerala, India. Accommodation rating is the operators own rating and may not be the official rating. Hotel details correct at 16/03/2017