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4 Star Hotel
Holiday Brief
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Experience the best of Kerala on a relaxing and scenic journey that takes you from historic towns to peaceful backwaters, lush hills, and sunny beaches.
Start your trip in Kochi, a charming coastal city filled with history. Explore the old streets of Fort Kochi, see the famous Chinese fishing nets, and enjoy the mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and Indian cultures.
Next, head to Alleppey, known for its calm backwaters. Stay on a traditional houseboat as you glide through palm-lined canals, passing villages and green rice fields along the way.
From there, travel to Calicut (Kozhikode), once an important spice trading port. Discover its rich food culture, visit local markets, and enjoy peaceful moments by the sea.
Then move into the cool hills of Wayanad, where you’ll find waterfalls, caves, tea plantations, and forests. It’s the perfect place for nature lovers and anyone looking to relax in the fresh mountain air.
Finish your journey in Bekal, a quiet beach town known for its large sea-facing fort and beautiful coastline. Relax at a beach resort and watch unforgettable sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
Itinerary Details
1 - Arrive Kochi International airport
You’ll arrive in Cochin (Kochi) and be met at the airport, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day can be enjoyed at your own pace. Relax in your deluxe suite at the Gateway hotel or venture out into Cochin to explore the city.
The Wings over South India Tour begins in the city of Cochin. Steeped in history, Cochin is a cosmopolitan city boasting European and Chinese influences. Spend your first afternoon roaming the city streets: exploring churches, ancient mosques and cobbled streets lined with colonial buildings. Stop for a snack at a street-stall or walk the cafe trail and try a cup of traditional Darjeeling tea as you take a moment to adjust to the energy of this pulsating city.
For those feeling tired, simply relax at the hotel and make use of the incredible facilities before your India tour begins to unfold
2 - Kochi sightseeing
Today, you will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the charming city of Cochin. Known as the ‘Gateway to Kerala’, Cochin is positioned on the southwest coast of India. From the Dutch and British to the Portuguese and Chinese, Cochin’s international influences are reflected in its culture and architecture. On this tour you’ll discover the charm of the understated Dutch Palace, visit the oldest European-built church in India, St. Francis Church, as well as admiring the rare antiques in the Jewish Paradesi Synagogue. Next, head to the harbour to see Cochin’s most recognisable attraction - the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. Introduced by the Chinese traders in the 14th century, catching a glimpse of these unique cascading nets against the skyline is simply awe-inspiring. After discovering the architectural and historical sites in Fort Kochi, the rest of the day is free for you to explore Cochin at your own leisure. In the evening, you’ll have the chance to watch a Kathakali dance performance. Adorned with elaborate masks and colourful make-up, the dancers tell stories based from Ramayana and Mahabharata. It’s a classical Indian dance form and a wonderful Hindu tradition to experience.
3 - Kochi to Alleppey Houseboat ( 1 hour 45 minutes drive)
Leaving Cochin, your marvellous South India trip moves on to Alleppey and a houseboat stay. Cruise through the languid networks of Kerala’s tropical backwaters, taking in the serene natural beauty of this part of India and glimpsing local life as it is lived along the riverbanks. Your houseboat offers every luxury, with elegant lounging decks, air-conditioned rooms and sumptuous onboard meals. At some point in the afternoon, you will have the chance to disembark and stroll through small riverside villages and swaying coconut groves.
4 - Alleppey to Calicut (6 hours&30 minutes drive)
Later depart for Calicut, also known as Kozhikode. The beautiful city of Calicut came into existence in the 13th century. It is said that it is around this place that Vasco da Gama set foot for the first time. when he came to India on May 27, 1498. Calicut is enveloped between the tranquil Arabian Sea on the west and picturesque Wayanad hills on the east, making it a hot spot for tourists.After reaching Calicut, in the evening venture out to Kappad beach. It is a historic site owing to the legendary spice route that flourished through this Beach. Stroll around this beautiful beach, watch serene water, spot many migratory birds and savour excellent local delicacies at the nearby shacks.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Calicut.
5 - Calicut to Wayanad (2 hours drive)
After a pleasant night’s sleep, enjoy a lavish breakfast and check out from the hotel.
In the morning, visit the Pazhassi Raja Museum which showcases beautiful mural painting, miniature temples, ancient coins, antique bronze articles, umbrella stones and other megalithic monuments.
After exploring the museum, head to Wayanad which takes 2 hours drive from Calicut .
Wayanad is a green paradise nestled among the Western Ghats. It is known for its sprawling spice plantations, paddy fields, diverse wildlife, dense forests, historical caves, enchanting waterfalls and a plethora of luxurious resorts and comfortable home stays. A trip to Wayanad guarantees to please your travel senses in every way.
Spend the evening at leisure and explore the resort property.
Overnight stay at the resort.
6 - Wayanad
India has one of the largest tribal populations in the world and today you will be able to visit a Potters & Tribal village. Pottery is one of the earliest skills known to Indians, and a visit to the local pottery-making centre gives a wonderful insight into the hand-moulded toys and deities of worship that are crafted here. You will be able to chat to the local potters, as well as giving this ancient art of handling clay a go. The tribal village also has a great martial art tradition.
7 - Wayanad to Bakel ( 5 hours Drive)
Besides upholding heritage, Bakel takes pride in its unmatched beauty and ancient history. On the first day, you will make your way to Bakel from Nileswaram. On your way to this beautiful town, halt and visit the very famous Anand ashram. This spiritual retreat is a globally renowned centre that is founded in 1931 by Swami Ramdas. Here, all men, women and children who belong to whatever denomination, caste and creed have free access. The Ashram is centred on the solitary activity of chanting the mantra "Om Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram."
Later, continue your journey to Bakel and check in at the beach resort. Staying at such a pristine location provides you with much needed solitude. Revitalize amidst a canopy of copious greenery while basking in the cold winds of the shore.
Spend the overnight in the comfort of cosy rooms at the luxury beach resort.
8 - Sightseeing Excursion in Bakel
This day brings you a lot of sightseeing expedition in Bakel. After you have had a toothsome breakfast meal, head out to see the Bakel beach. It is a splendid seashore that spans over an area of 36 acres. If you wish, you can also explore the rock garden which is located only a kilometre away from the beach.
Next, head to the Kappil beach. Picturesque and serene, this is one of the only beaches in Kerala that is not inundated by eateries and shops. You can opt for a boat ride on the backwaters adjunct to the sea, wander on the bridge that runs from corner to corner of the lake or climb up the Kodi Cliff for a mesmerising 360 degree view of the Arabian Sea.
Lastly, make your way to the Bakel fort. It is a prehistoric fortress that was built almost 300 years ago. From its high observation tower, you can behold breath-taking glimpses of the sea. Do not miss out on spotting the water tank with its flight of steps here.
After an exciting day, return back to the beach resort for a comfortable overnight stay.
9 - Bakel Beach Resort
Today will be at pure leisure for you to enjoy and soak in the luxuries of the beach resort. Opt from the various services that the resort offers such as Ayurvedic spa treatments and swimming in the plunge pool.
The resort also has an internal lagoon that overlooks a white snowy beach. In the evening, head to the beach for a quaint walk for complete unwinding.
Return back to the beach resort in Bakel for a delicious meal and a relaxing overnight stay.
10 - Bakel to Kannur Airport (2 hours Drive)
The fourth day of this trip brings you to depart from this tranquil town and pursue your journey back home. Enjoy a luscious breakfast and check out from the luxury beach resort. Transfers to the Mangaluru airport will be arranged for from where you can board your flight taking along beautiful memories from this trip.
Accommodation Details
| Destination | No of Nights | Name of the hotel | Room Category | Board Basis | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kochi | 2 | Malabar House | Deluxe room | Half Board | 5 |
| Alleppey | 1 | Lakes and lagoons | Deluxe Boat | Full Board | 5 |
| Calicut | 1 | The gateway Hotel | Standard Room | Half Board | 5 |
| Wayanad | 1 | Taj Wayanad | Superior Room | Half Board | 5 |
| Bekal | 3 | Taj Bekal | Superior room with private Balcony | Half Board | 5 |
Inclusions
- Special Deals
- Low Deposit starts from £199 pp
- Return Flights from London (Other airports may attract Supplement charges)
- Luxurious beach resort accommodation
- Sightseeing as per the itinerary at all destinations
- Round trip transfers by Kia Karens for Taj hotels &resorts with an English Speaking Driver
- Entry Fees to all sightseeing Places
- Sightseeing trip to Bakel Beach - a splendid seashore, Bakel
- Fort - a prehistoric fortress built almost 300 years ago, and Kappil Beach – a serene and picturesque beach.
- Currently applicable taxes
Hotels
The Malabar House
1) Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
2) Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
3) Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guarantee
4) This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
5) Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
6) Please note: To comply with local law, no alcohol will be served in this property on the first day of every month.
Service & Amenities
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["Outdoor swimming pool","Airport shuttle","Non-smoking rooms","Spa and wellness centre","Room service","Restaurant","Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms","Free Wifi","Bar"]
Lakes and lagoons
Service & Amenities
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["Non-smoking rooms","Free Wifi","Lake view","River view"]
The Gateway Hotel Beach Road, Calicut
Service & Amenities
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["2 swimming pools","Free parking","Non-smoking rooms","Spa and wellness centre","Restaurant","Room service","Free Wifi","Bar"]
Taj Wayanad Resort & Spa, Kerala
Service & Amenities
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["Outdoor swimming pool","Non-smoking rooms","Free parking","Free Wifi","Restaurant","Room service","Family rooms","Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms","Bar"]
Taj Bekal
Service & Amenities
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["Outdoor swimming pool","Non-smoking rooms","Fitness center","3 restaurants","Airport shuttle","Room service"]




