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Kerala-7-days: culinary-culture

Cochin-Thekkady-Kumarakom

DURATION
days icon 7 Days
PRICE PER PERSON
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Information
CULINARY
CULTURE
DURATION
Days icon 7 Days
PRICE PER PERSON
Price icon  onwards

Information
About this Jrny

Spices are at the heart of Keralan food’s unforgettable taste. Kerala’s tropical climate is the perfect environment to cultivate a variety of spices — warm, zesty, pungent, and everything in between. Our journey starts in Kochi, a port city known for its fresh seafood and fusion cuisine. We explore the spice markets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, learning about their history and uses in different aspects of Kerala’s cuisine.

Next, we head to Thekkady, to a lush spice plantation that will be our home for the night. A leisurely walk through the spice plantation, accompanied by the aromas of cardamom, nutmeg, and pepper, reveals how our favourite spices are grown, harvested, and processed. A morning visit to Periyar National Park takes us on a scenic boat ride down the Periyar river, with a chance to spot some wildlife. At our next destination, Alleppey, we board a houseboat cruise that takes us to Kumarakom via serene backwaters.

Kumarakom, characterised by a labyrinth of backwaters, is part of the “rice bowl” region of Kerala. Kumarakom’s cuisine is largely Syrian-Christian, where appam, kappa (tapioca), and karimeen (pearl spot fish) are abundantly eaten, along with more fresh seafood. Throughout the trip, we also partake in traditional Keralan experiences including a mohiniyattam dance performance, an optional ayurvedic spa afternoon, and a rice-boat cruise.

Join us to taste Kerala's exquisite cuisine as it comes alive.

Highlights
  • Walks through Kerala’s bustling spice markets and lush spice plantations.
  • An interactive cooking demonstration and spice secrets of Syrian Christian cuisine
  • Walks through the streets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, tasting local street food
  • A learning session about ayurveda and spices by an ayurvedic dietician
  • A boat ride along the waters of Periyar river
Inclusions:
  • 6 Breakfasts , 6 lunches & 5 dinners
  • Stay in comfortable hotels with twin sharing rooms (unless you choose a single room)
  • 2 nights stay in Cochin
  • 2 nights stay in Thekkady
  • 2 nights stay in Kumarakom
  • Arrive and departure airport transfers
Itinerary
Day 1

Arrive Kochi

Day 2

A Day in Kochi

Day 3

Kochi to Thekkady

Day 4

A day in Thekkady

Day 5

Thekkady to Kumarakom via Alleppey

Day 6

A Day in Kumarakom

Day 7

Depart Kumarakom - Kochi

Overview

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Duration
7 Days
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Price per person
onwards

Information
Activity level
Moderate

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Travel Style
comfort

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Suggested Ages
Any
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Maximum Group size
Any
Plan My Jrny
Kerala-7-days: culinary-culture
7 Days from  $  / person
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Stay
No Hotels Available.
Beach Gate Bungalows, CGH Earth
Day Day 1, Night 1 N
Beach Gate Bungalows, CGH Earth

Kochi
Eighth Bastion, a CGH Earth experience
Day Day 1, Night 1 N
Eighth Bastion, a CGH Earth experience

Kochi
Beach Gate Bungalows, CGH Earth
Day Day 2, Night 1 N
Beach Gate Bungalows, CGH Earth

Kochi
Eighth Bastion, a CGH Earth experience
Day Day 2, Night 1 N
Eighth Bastion, a CGH Earth experience

Kochi
Spice Village, a CGH Earth experience
Day Day 3 - 4, Night 2 N
Spice Village, a CGH Earth experience

Thekkady
Coconut Lagoon, a CGH Earth experience
Day Day 5 - 7, Night 2 N
Coconut Lagoon, a CGH Earth experience

Kumarakom
Your Daily Itinerary
Day 1

Arrive Kochi

Welcome to Kochi, where every cobblestone street narrates tales of colonial legacies from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British eras. Our representative awaits you at the airport, ready to whisk you away to a hotel infused with Kerala's rich heritage.

Meet Chef Sapna, who will be your Jrny Maestro for the trip.

Delight in leisurely strolls through bustling markets, explore ancient forts, and treat your palate to the diverse flavours of local Malabar cuisine. Allow Kochi's enchanting spirit to captivate your senses, promising a journey brimming with history, culture, and culinary delights.

Meals Included: None

Arrive Kochi - Day 1 image

Activities

Meet and Greet in Kochi activity
Meet and Greet in Kochi
07:00 - 17:00

Arrive at Kochi International Airport (Airport code: COK). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs, please look for JrnyOn representative holding a placard with your name. Proceed to your hotel in a pre-arranged transfer vehicle.

Day 2

A Day in Kochi

Start your day early with a visit to the Vypin Fish Market, where you can explore the bustling market and experience the local seafood trade. After the visit, enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Mattancherry Spice Market, where you’ll have the chance to explore the vibrant spice market and visit a proper spice shop to learn about Kerala’s famous spice trade.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in a cooking demonstration with Nimmy Paul, where you’ll learn the secrets behind some traditional Kerala dishes, followed by a delicious lunch. After a fulfilling morning and afternoon, take some time to rest at the hotel to recharge for the evening.

In the evening, head to Ernakulam Marine Drive Pier for a sunset cruise, where you can enjoy the serene backwaters and the beautiful sunset views. Finally, enjoy a dinner at Calicut Paragon, concluding a day full of exploration, learning, and delicious food.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

A Day in Kochi - Day 2 image

Activities

Fish Market and Auctions activity
Fish Market and Auctions
06:30 - 08:00

Explore the bustling Ernakulam Fishing Harbour, Kochi's largest wholesale fish market.

Mattancherry Spice Market and Jew Town activity
Mattancherry Spice Market and Jew Town
09:00 - 12:00

Explore Jew Town and Mattancherry, walking through the bustling streets and the aromatic spice markets as Chef Sapna talks about the limitless potential of Kerala’s local spices.

Cooking Class & Lunch At Nimmy Paul's activity
Cooking Class & Lunch At Nimmy Paul's
12:00 - 14:00

Nimmy and Paul have been hosting ‘At Home’ hospitality for over 12 years, sharing their Syrian Christian heritage in Kerala. Nimmy, a seasoned cookery instructor with 20+ years of experience, offers classes on traditional Kerala cuisine while serving as a food consultant to writers, chefs, and magazines. Together, they welcome guests with warm hospitality and authentic flavours.

You will be transferred from your hotel to Nimmy's residence. Spend the morning learning to make local dishes, enjoy lunch with the family, and return to your hotel.

Free Afternoon in Kochi activity
Free Afternoon in Kochi
14:00 - 17:30

The afternoon is yours to explore Kochi at your own pace.

Sunset Cruise in Kochi activity
Sunset Cruise in Kochi
17:30 - 18:45

Enjoy a boat cruise in the beautiful Kochi harbour and witness the sun setting on this mesmerising city. Watch as the local fishermen return with the day’s catch.

Fort Paragon Restaurant by Calicut Paragon activity
Fort Paragon Restaurant by Calicut Paragon
18:45 - 20:00

Enjoy a boutique dining concept that features some of the most loved dishes from Calicut Paragon restaurants.

Day 3

Kochi to Thekkady

Start your day early with a scenic drive from Kochi to Periyar. Upon arrival, head to Planters Treasure and enjoy a delightful breakfast at Joppi's Residence, where you’ll be treated to a traditional Syrian Christian menu, thoughtfully prepared by Roshini Sebastian.

Continue your journey with a drive to Pala, and then enjoy a hearty lunch at Madukakkunnu Farm, hosted at Jose Thomas Residence. After lunch, take a scenic drive to Thekkady, soaking in the natural beauty along the way.

Indulge in a delicious buffet dinner at Spice Village, where you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes in a cozy and authentic setting, wrapping up the day with a satisfying and memorable meal.

Meals Included : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Kochi to Thekkady - Day 3 image

Activities

Planter's Treasure Joppi's Residence activity
Planter's Treasure Joppi's Residence
07:00 - 10:00

Check out of the hotel and drive to Planter's Treasure Joppi's Residence for breakfast.
Savour a Syrian Christian Menu.

Drive to Pala activity
Drive to Pala
10:00 - 12:00

Embark on a scenic drive to Pala, where the journey offers picturesque views of lush landscapes and tranquil surroundings.

Lunch at Madukakkunnu farm activity
Lunch at Madukakkunnu farm
12:00 - 13:30

Lunch at Madukakkunnu farm at Jose Thomas Residence.
Featuring Kerala Nazrani Sadhya served on Banana leaf.

Transfer Kochi To Thekkady activity
Transfer Kochi To Thekkady
13:30 - 14:30

Head to Thekkady in the comfort of a chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned vehicle. Sit back, relax, and soak in the scenic beauty of Kerala's lush landscapes. Stop for lunch en route.

Distance: 158 km / 99 mi
Duration: 4.5 hrs

Dinner at Spice Village activity
Dinner at Spice Village
20:00 - 21:30

Buffet dinner at the Hotel.

Day 4

A day in Thekkady

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, enjoying a spread of fresh and local delicacies. Then embark on a Spice Plantation visit, where you’ll learn about the cultivation of Kerala’s famous spices and the region’s rich agricultural practices.

After the plantation tour, enjoy a delicious lunch at the hotel, featuring a variety of local dishes. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat cruise on Periyar Lake, allowing you to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the lake and its wildlife.

In the evening, experience a cultural showcase at Spice Village, with a Bharatanatyam dance performance. To cap off the day, enjoy a cooking demo and dinner at the hotel, where you’ll be introduced to the flavours and culinary traditions of Kerala’s tribal communities.

Meals Included : Breakfast , Lunch & Dinner

A day in Thekkady - Day 4 image

Activities

Spice Plantation visit activity
Spice Plantation visit
09:00 - 11:00

The plantation visit gives us an insight into the growing, harvesting, and processing of spices.

Boat cruise on Periyar Lake activity
Boat cruise on Periyar Lake
15:00 - 17:00

Enjoy a Boat ride on Periyar Lake.

Spice Village cooking demo and dinner activity
Spice Village cooking demo and dinner
18:00 - 20:00

Bharatanatyam performance and cooking demonstration arranged for in-house guests at the hotel, followed by a tribal cooking demo and dinner at Spice Village Hotel.

Day 5

Thekkady to Kumarakom via Alleppey

Embark on a scenic drive from Periyar to Alleppey, making a stop at the picturesque Harrison's Tea Plantation to enjoy the lush tea gardens and learn about tea cultivation. A brief stop for a washroom break will be made at Teyla, ensuring a comfortable journey.

In the afternoon, board a delightful cruise on Vembanad Lake. During the cruise, enjoy a delicious lunch on board, featuring fresh water prawns and other local delicacies as you glide along the serene backwaters, taking in the scenic beauty of the lake.

Continue your cruise through the serene backwaters until you reach your tranquil retreat in Kumarakom, where you can relax and unwind in a quiet, green environment. A delicious seafood dinner awaits, offering a perfect end to a day filled with natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exquisite cuisine.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Thekkady to Kumarakom via Alleppey - Day 5 image

Activities

Drive from Thekkady to Alleppey activity
Drive from Thekkady to Alleppey
08:00 - 12:00

Enjoy a comfortable journey from Thekkady to Alleppey in a private, chauffeur-driven air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth and pleasant ride as you traverse the picturesque landscapes of Kerala.
Distance: 138 Km / 85 mi
Duration: 4 hrs

Cruise on the Vembanad Lake activity
Cruise on the Vembanad Lake
12:00 - 16:00

Embark on a serene cruise on Vembanad Lake. The onboard lunch features a traditional spread, completing a delightful culinary journey on the tranquil waters.

Dinner at Coconut Lagoon activity
Dinner at Coconut Lagoon
20:00 - 21:00

Embark at Coconut Lagoon and indulge in a sumptuous seafood dinner featuring a curated selection of regional delicacies. Begin with the Tender Coconut Seafood Moilee, a creamy turmeric-based seafood soup, served with freshly baked breads and lavash. Savour the Inchi Puli Prawns, spicy stir-fried shrimps in a tangy ginger-tamarind sauce, and crunchy tapioca crisps. The Regional Seafood Platter offers flavours, including jumbo prawn shutteth, lemony tiger prawns, and Neiman kizhi—a seer steak wrapped in regional masala and curry leaves. These are served alongside chilli coconut rice, Kerala parotta, and vegetable preparations. End the meal with the Lagoon Trio Platter, an exotic dessert selection featuring vattalappam (coconut milk and jaggery custard), thamukku (bananas with coconut and roasted rice flour), and coconut burfi flavoured with milk and cardamom. A perfect way to close the day amidst the serene ambience of Coconut Lagoon.

Day 6

A Day in Kumarakom

Start your day with a Kumarakom Village visit, enjoying a scenic boat ride as you explore the local village life and picturesque surroundings. The boat journey offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the backwaters and traditional village scenes.

Enjoy a traditional Kerala Sadya lunch, featuring a variety of authentic Kerala dishes served on a banana leaf, providing a true taste of local cuisine.

Relax with Ayurvedic treatments or take a tranquil stroll along the backwaters in the afternoon.

Partake in a cooking class featuring breakfast delights like appam and stew, idiyappam, and more, guided by expert chefs. End the day with a farewell dinner featuring menu planned by Chef Sapna, where you’ll enjoy a delicious spread of local delicacies, making for a perfect end to your stay.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

A Day in Kumarakom - Day 6 image

Activities

Kumarakom Village visit activity
Kumarakom Village visit
09:00 - 11:00

Experience the charm of Kumarakom with a serene village visit. Begin your journey with a picturesque boat ride for pick-up and drop-off at Coconut Lagoon (CCL), soaking in the tranquil beauty of the backwaters. Explore the village by boat, gliding through narrow canals lined with lush greenery, traditional houses, and glimpses of local life. This immersive journey offers a unique opportunity to witness the simplicity and vibrancy of rural Kerala, creating lasting memories of this peaceful retreat.

Traditional Kerala Lunch activity
Traditional Kerala Lunch
12:00 - 13:00

Enjoy an authentic Kerala feast served on a traditional banana leaf, showcasing a rich variety of local flavours and textures. A thoughtfully curated spread of dishes, from vibrant vegetables to comforting curries, reflects the region’s deep-rooted culinary traditions.

The meal unfolds in classic style, ending on a sweet and refreshing note—offering a truly immersive taste of Kerala’s heritage and hospitality.

Cooking Demo activity
Cooking Demo
18:30 - 19:30

Immerse yourself in the culinary heritage of Kerala with an exclusive cooking demonstration at your hotel.

Kumarakom Farewell dinner activity
Kumarakom Farewell dinner
19:30 - 21:30

The farewell dinner at Coconut Lagoon offers a memorable culinary experience with a thoughtfully curated menu. A perfect way to bid farewell with a taste of Kerala’s finest flavours.

Day 7

Depart Kumarakom - Kochi

Start your day with a lecture by the Ayurveda doctor, offering valuable insights into the principles and practices of Ayurveda. Gather with the group for a goodbye talk from Chef Sapna, reflecting on your experiences and the memories created during your stay.

Transfer to Philipkutty Farm by boat for a delightful lunch with a cooking demonstration. Enjoy a unique culinary experience as you participate in the cooking demo and savour traditional Kerala dishes at the farm.

Afterward, embark on a scenic drive to Kochi, followed by some free time at Lulu Mall to shop or relax. In the evening, make your way to Kochi airport for your return flight home, concluding your memorable journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Depart Kumarakom - Kochi - Day 7 image

Activities

Lecture by Ayurveda Doctor activity
Lecture by Ayurveda Doctor
09:00 - 10:00

Gain valuable insights into holistic health and wellness with a lecture by an experienced Ayurveda doctor, exploring the ancient practices and principles of this traditional Indian medicine. This session offers a deep understanding of how Ayurveda promotes balance and well-being in daily life.

Transfer to Philipkutty Farm for lunch activity
Transfer to Philipkutty Farm for lunch
12:00 - 12:30

Begin your journey to the picturesque Philipkutty Farm with a serene boat transfer, setting the tone for an immersive culinary and cultural experience. Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome with a refreshing ginger lime drink, followed by a cooking demonstration showcasing traditional Kerala recipes.

Lunch at Philipkutty Farm is a feast of authentic flavors, featuring appam paired with chicken stew, a rich vegetable curry, and unique banana flower cutlets. The spread includes staples like Kerala boiled rice and dhal curry, as well as a variety of sides: vegetable thoran, ivy gourd fry, and the signature beef olarthiathu. Seafood lovers can savor fish fry and batter-fried prawns, complemented by pineapple pachadi, banana chips, pappad, and tangy pickles.

Dessert is a highlight, with a creamy coconut milk soufflé accompanied by fresh fruits. Conclude the meal with a choice of tea or coffee, enjoying the tranquil charm of the farm and its lush surroundings. This visit offers a perfect blend of Kerala's culinary artistry and serene backwater living.

Transfer from Kumarakom to Kochi activity
Transfer from Kumarakom to Kochi
15:30 - 17:30

Travel in comfort and style in a chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned vehicle. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route.

Distance: 49 km / 30 mi
Duration: 1.5 hrs

Departure Transfer to Kochi airport activity
Departure Transfer to Kochi airport
19:30 - 20:30

We'll ensure a smooth journey to Kochi Airport (COK), providing you with comfortable and convenient transportation for your departure.

Duration: 1 hour 10 min
Distance: 43km/ 26 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

- You are passionate about the culinary and cultural heritage of a place and are keen to explore them thoughtfully, beyond the typical tourist trail.

- You’ve always wanted to experience a place through the eyes of a locality and interact with them more closely.

- You geek out on local Kerala food and are always on the lookout to try new, lesser-known dishes that deserve more of the spotlight.

- You are curious about the people who grow and cook your food.

- You are excited to forge meaningful connections with like-minded travellers, who share the same passion for conscious and sustainable travel as you.

- You are not the kind of tourist seeking only luxurious comfort, and are open to getting your hands dirty while on the adventure!

The tour starts and ends in Cochin. So you should arrive and depart from Cochin Airport. The airport code is COK.

Yes, private arrival and departure airport transfers are included in this tour between the airport and the tour hotel. These transfers will be shared with other members of your tour.

There are no activities scheduled on Day 1 of the trip. So you can arrive anytime. Hotel check-in time varies and generally will be around 2:00 pm.

You can depart late evening. As you have activities until late afternoon.

Absolutely, please rest assured we will try our best. From flavourful vegetarian dishes deeply rooted in local culinary traditions to specially curated menus, we ensure a delightful array of vegetarian choices on all our tours.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

Sorry, this trip might not be for you. We endeavour to introduce people to local food & culture and expect our travellers to be adventurous when it comes to life.

Please read through the itinerary in detail. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 2 would be ideal.

Please refer to the daily activities in the itinerary, where the driving distance and duration for each day are given. The longest drive on this tour appx 4 hrs (depending on traffic).

Light cotton clothes come as the answer to the question of how to dress up here. Waterproofing is also essential during monsoons. Other essential items that you should add to your travel kit are hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, etc, comfortable walking shoes etc.,

JrnyOn highly recommends travel insurance to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness, or unforeseen late cancellations. Whilst suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control. If you like assistance with your travel insurance, please write to [email protected].

- A 30% advance payment is required to confirm the booking.

- Balance full payment to be done 60 days before the date of travel

- Till 91 days, 10% cancellation charges

- From 90 - 46 days 30% cancellation charges

- From 45 days onwards 100% cancellation charges.


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