Escape is the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life and a chance to uncover the dramatic and varying landscapes of Kerala. From rocky shorelines, swaying palm trees and captivating sunsets over the Arabian sea, to the peaceful backwaters, we can't think of a more perfect opportunity to relax and unwind.

You'll be staying at some of the trendiest and most chic boutique hotels in the region, courtesy of our partners at Malabar Escapes. Experience the fusion of designs - inspirations drawn from around the world, and culinary excellence - each dish a vibrant palette of flavour and colour, incorporating local produce and freshly caught seafood. Paradise for gourmets!



Each propertie offers you a different and unusual perspective, starting with Malabar House, through 'serenity', 'discovery' (houseboat) and 'purity' to leave you with a sense of well-being and harmony. 



While away the hours cruising on Lake Vembanad, lazing in a hammock or playing with elephants – choose to do as much, or as little as you like. Enjoy time, space, scenery and the many exotic tastes and aromas in a truly special escape to Kerala.

Day-by-day itinerary

On day one you'll be arriving in Kochi, known by the British as Cochin. Our partners will be at the airport to greet you and take you to Malabar House, the first stop on your trip. A chance to freshen up before the first of many divine lunches. In the afternoon you can set your own pace – choose to lounge around, take a leisurely walk or bike ride around Fort Cochin with its many picture-perfect lanes, each one a journey in to the rich history of the town.

Delicious cuisine is definitely one of the themes for this journey, and dinner at Malabar House is certainly no exception!

Another opportunity to define your own pace on day two. Explore more of Cochin, including the Dutch Palace, the main Synagogue and shopping at the markets in the Jewish quarter. You'll experience relics of the varied cultures that have left their mark on Cochin over hundreds of years and which give it a unique ambiance.



Another overnight stay at Malabar House, with both lunch and dinner included – although you might want to try some typical local dishes and snacks as you meander through the town.

On day three you'll be heading to serenity, (just over a two hour drive) and a totally different setting, surrounded by spice gardens and rubber plantations. There are plenty of bicycle trails and the hotel provides mountain bikes for you to get out and explore as much as you like. Of course lounging, pool time and relaxing Ayurvedic treatments are alternatives if you're looking for a less strenuous day!



Meals will be expertly prepared by the staff at serenity.

A leisurely start to day four, followed by the chance to meet some elephants. These gentle giants are a major part of life in Kerala and important in religious ceremonies as festivities. Get up close and personal as the elephants play, spraying water and relaxing with their mahouts. Alternatively, you can head out in to the countryside on a bullock cart – a more sedate way of seeing the local sights.



Back to serenity in time for drinks before another sumptuous dinner.



On day five (and six) you'll be cruising on discovery – a design houseboat that will take you around the stillness and expansive views of the backwaters that Kerala is so famous for. Whether you're on deck taking in the views, or cocooned in your beautifully appointed cabin, it's sure to be a wonderful experience, toppped off of course by more mouthwatering meals, freshly prepared onboard. This really is an escape from the world, a chance to clear your mind and appreciate the natural beauty of Lake Vembanad and the surrounding area.

You'll spend two nights onboard discovery, before moving on to purity, located on the 'right bank' of the lake for days seven and eight.



Once again, you'll be able to define your own pace and choose between exploring the local area, meandering through the back streets and getting a taste of local life, cycling, or lazing in a hammock and making the most of the peace and quiet. Cool off with a dip in the pool and be sure to make the most of the array of Ayurvedic treatments on offer.



Yet more gourmet fare awaits you as the kitchen at purity serves up finely balanced and absolutely delectable lunches and dinners (and snacks in between!)

On day nine you'll be checking out of the hotel and then depending on your onward journey, either heading back to Cochin in time for your international flight or onward connection within India.