Trip Highlights

• Rejuvenate with authentic Ayurveda therapies.
• Relax on a serene backwater houseboat cruise.
• Visit iconic temples like Guruvayur and Chottanikkara.
• Witness cultural performances like Kathakali.
• Experience yoga and meditation sessions in tranquil settings.
• Savour organic Ayurvedic cuisine.
• Explore Kerala’s natural beauty, including beaches and backwaters.
• Enjoy seamless travel and premium accommodations.

Day 1: Travel from Delhi to Kochi

• Option 1: Flight: ~3 hours direct flight. Morning or early afternoon flights are recommended.
• Option 2: Train: ~48 hours via Kerala Express or Mangala Lakshadweep Express.
• Arrival in Kochi:
  • Check into a hotel near Fort Kochi or Ernakulam.
  • Relax and explore Fort Kochi’s colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and spice markets.
  • Dinner: Relish Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Kochi Temple Tour and Cultural Experience

• • Morning:
    • Visit Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, a revered temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, known for its vibrant rituals and healing powers.
    • Explore Ernakulam Shiva Temple, renowned for its serene ambiance and ancient history.
  • Afternoon:
    • Lunch featuring traditional Kerala sadya (a multi-course vegetarian meal).
    • Visit Mattancherry Palace, an architectural marvel that showcases Kerala’s history and art.
    • Explore the Jewish Synagogue, a symbol of Kerala’s cultural harmony and ancient trade.
  • Evening:

• Attend a Kathakali dance performance, Kerala’s classical art form, depicting stories from Hindu epics.

Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple:

• Healing Power: This temple is renowned for its powerful healing rituals, attracting devotees seeking relief from physical and mental ailments. The temple’s energy is believed to possess curative powers, and many experience miraculous recoveries after seeking blessings here.
• Makam Thozhal: The annual Makam Thozhal festival is a major highlight, featuring vibrant processions, intricate rituals, and cultural performances. It’s a time of intense spiritual fervor and a significant event in the temple’s calendar.
• Goddess Bhagavathy: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, who is worshipped in various forms, reflecting the diverse beliefs and traditions of the region.

Ernakulam Shiva Temple:

• Tranquil Oasis: Located in the heart of bustling Kochi, this temple offers a serene and peaceful environment for spiritual reflection and meditation. It’s a place to escape the city’s hustle and connect with one’s inner self.
• Annual Festival: The annual festival is a major event, drawing large crowds of devotees who participate in the festivities with great enthusiasm and devotion.

Mattancherry Palace:

• Royal Heritage: This historical palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and royal heritage of Kerala.
• Mural Art: The palace is renowned for its exquisite murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, offering a visual narrative of Hindu mythology.
• Royal Artifacts: Explore a collection of artifacts that showcase the lifestyle and grandeur of the erstwhile Kochi royalty.

Jewish Synagogue:

• Historical Significance: One of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth, this 16th-century synagogue is a testament to the rich cultural and religious diversity of Kerala.
• Architectural Beauty: The synagogue’s interiors are a feast for the eyes, featuring hand-painted Chinese tiles, Belgian chandeliers, and a gold pulpit, making it an architectural marvel.
• Cultural Treasure: It stands as a significant cultural treasure, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of different faiths and communities in Kerala.

Day 3: Drive to Guruvayur – Temple Town

• Morning:
  • Drive to Guruvayur (~2.5 hours).
  • Visit Guruvayur Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, famous for its rituals and spiritual significance.
• Afternoon:
  • Explore Punnathur Kotta, an elephant sanctuary housing temple elephants, offering a unique cultural experience.
  • Lunch at a local vegetarian restaurant.
• Evening:
  • Check into a retreat near Guruvayur.
  • Engage in a relaxing yoga or meditation session.

Guruvayur Temple:

• Dwaraka of the South: This revered Krishna temple holds immense significance for Hindus, often referred to as the “Dwaraka of the South,” drawing parallels to the legendary city of Lord Krishna.
• Daily Rituals & Mahaprasad: The daily poojas (worship rituals), the offering of Mahaprasad (sacred food), and the presence of temple elephants at Punnathur Kotta add to the temple’s unique spiritual aura and cultural richness.
• Elephant Processions: Witnessing the ceremonial elephant processions is a truly unforgettable experience. These majestic creatures play a crucial role in temple rituals and festivals, showcasing the deep connection between humans and elephants in Kerala’s culture.

Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary:

• Unique Sanctuary: This sanctuary is unique for its cultural significance, as these elephants play an integral role in temple rituals and festivals.
• Elephant Care: Witness the care and training of these majestic creatures, observing traditional elephant-related ceremonies.
• Cultural Experience: It provides a unique cultural experience, offering insights into the deep-rooted connection between humans and elephants in Kerala’s traditions.

Day 4: Drive to Thrissur and Visit Vadakkumnathan Temple

• Morning:
  • Drive to Thrissur (~1 hour).
  • Visit Vadakkumnathan Temple, a masterpiece of Kerala architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva, adorned with murals and carvings.
• Afternoon:
  • Explore Thrissur’s cultural spots such as the Bible Tower and Shakthan Thampuran Palace.
  • Lunch at a local Kerala restaurant.
• Evening:
  • Check into a nearby Ayurveda retreat center.

Vadakkumnathan Temple:

• Architectural Marvel: This Shiva temple is an architectural masterpiece, renowned for its intricate carvings, murals, and sculptures. The temple’s artistic brilliance reflects the rich artistic heritage of Kerala.
• Thrissur Pooram: The temple serves as the epicenter of Thrissur Pooram, one of India’s most celebrated festivals. The vibrant processions, colorful displays, and rhythmic beats create a mesmerizing spectacle.
• Cultural Significance: Beyond its religious importance, the temple plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing Kerala’s cultural traditions, attracting art enthusiasts and cultural aficionados from around the world.

Day 5: Ayurveda Rejuvenation

• Full Day:
  • Tailored Ayurveda program including Abhyanga (herbal oil massage), Shirodhara (meditative oil therapy), and herbal steam baths.
  • Enjoy organic, Ayurvedic meals crafted for detoxification.
  • Evening meditation and light yoga sessions.

Day 6: Drive to Alappuzha (Alleppey) – Backwater Experience

• Morning:
  • Drive to Alappuzha (~2.5 hours).
  • Check into a houseboat for a serene backwater cruise through lush canals.
• Afternoon:
  • Relish freshly prepared Kerala meals onboard.
  • Visit small villages and temples along the waterways.
• Evening:
  • Relax on the deck, watching the sunset over the picturesque backwaters.

Alappuzha Backwaters:

• Venice of the East: Often called the “Venice of the East,” the Alappuzha backwaters are a serene network of canals, lagoons, and lakes.
• Houseboat Cruise: A houseboat cruise through the backwaters offers a tranquil escape, allowing you to witness the picturesque beauty of Kerala’s countryside, including paddy fields, coconut groves, and local villages.
• Cultural Exploration: Explore the ancient temples and churches dotted along the backwaters, adding another layer of cultural and historical significance to your journey.

Day 7: Return to Kochi and Departure

• Morning:
  • Disembark from the houseboat.
  • Drive back to Kochi (~2 hours).
• Afternoon:
  • Explore Lulu Mall for shopping or enjoy a farewell Kerala meal.
• Evening:
  • Flight or train back to Delhi.

Inclusions:

• Round-trip travel between Delhi and Kerala.
• Accommodation in premium hotels and Ayurveda retreats.
• Daily meals: breakfast, dinner, and organic Ayurveda cuisine.
• Personalized Ayurveda therapies and yoga sessions.
• Guided tours and cultural performances.
• Houseboat cruise in Alappuzha.

Exclusions:

• Personal expenses and tips.
• Additional meals not listed.
• Travel insurance.
• Optional activities and extended stays.

Q – Are the Ayurveda centres certified?

Ans. Yes, all Ayurveda centres included in the package are government-certified and adhere to strict quality standards.

Q – Will I have a personal Ayurveda consultation? 

Ans. Yes, a personal consultation with an experienced Ayurvedic doctor is included to tailor treatments to your specific needs.

Q – Can I opt for additional Ayurveda treatments? 

Ans. Absolutely. Additional therapies can be arranged at your request, depending on availability.

Q – Are the meals during the Ayurveda program customizable?

Ans. Yes, meals are prepared based on Ayurvedic principles and can be customized to suit dietary restrictions or preferences.

Q – What kind of clothing should I pack for the therapies?

Ans. Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is recommended. Special attire for therapies will be provided by the centers.

Q – Is transportation included for temple visits and Ayurveda centers? 

Ans. Yes, comfortable transportation is included for all scheduled activities and transfers.