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Maestro Jrnys

Chef Sapna's Kerala

A Spice Trail: October '24

LED BY

Sapna Nair

TRIP DATES

03 Oct 24 - 08 Oct 24

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 1,035

CULINARY

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Chef Sapna's Kerala: A Spice Trail: October '24

TRIP DATES

03 Oct 24-08 Oct 24

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 1,035

About this Jrny

Spices are at the heart of Keralan food’s unforgettable taste. Chef Sapna, the Queen of Spices, takes you on an incredible journey across her home state of Kerala, inviting you to experience the magic of spices.

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 from Chef Sapna 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. We join Chef Sapna for an interactive cooking class where we learn to replicate Keralan delicacies at home.

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.

Apart from culinary delights and spice explorations, this jrny with Chef Sapna is a peek into her brilliant mind. Join us to taste Kerala's exquisite cuisine as it comes alive under Sapna's skilful hands.

Highlights

Walks through Kerala’s bustling spice markets and lush spice plantations, led by Chef Sapna
An interactive cooking demonstration by Chef Sapna, divulging the spice secrets of Syrian Christian cuisine
Walks through the streets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, tasting local street food
A cooking class with Chef Sapna and a local chef set in the serene backwaters
A learning session about ayurveda and spices by an ayurvedic dietician
A rice boat cruise through the winding canals of Alleppey
A traditional multi-course farewell dinner curated by Chef Sapna herself
5 nights stay in remarkable CGH experience resorts

Led by Jrny Maestro

Sapna Nair

Queen of Spices & a Chef Extraordinaire

12 Jrnys

46 Happy Travellers

Overview

Dates

3Oct’24 - 8Oct’24

Suggested Ages

Any

Duration

6 days

Activity Level

moderate

Group Size

Travel Style

comfort

Price per person

$1,035

Itinerary

Thu 03 Oct

Arrive Kochi

Fri 04 Oct

A Day in Kochi

Sat 05 Oct

Drive Kochi to Thekkady

Sun 06 Oct

Alleppey Backwaters & Kumarakom

Mon 07 Oct

A Day in Kumarakom

Tue 08 Oct

Depart Kumarakom - Kochi

From Chef Sapna's Kerala's Jrnys

This was my first visit to Kerala and I am glad I decided to trust JrnyOn and Chef Sapna with it. Everything about this trip was beyond my expectations, especially the food. Food connects people and I was able to make so many incredible connections with some amazing people on this trip.

Soraya Hamid

Chef Sapna's Kerala

A wonderful experience journeying with Chef Sapna. She puts her heart and soul into curating our spice tour and always gave more and more. Thanks to Sanjith for making this happen and for Jenesh and Krishna for supporting roles in getting us safely from place to place!

Visiting the families was the best part... It exceeded expectations and will be an experience I'll remember and recount for a very long time!!!

Cindy Chia

Chef Sapna's Kerala

Overall the entire trip exceeded by expectations. I was so impressed with the entire organization and attention to detail. Going to length to make it so enjoyable and safe for all of us. I loved the boatride on the backwaters. Mr. Sanjith was amazing. He truly made the whole Jrny wonderful. Chef Sapna Anand is an inspiration to all of us. She was the reason for our trip and she was outstanding! Will definitely be looking forwards to many many more trips with JrnyOn.

Harjit Kaur Perdamen Singh

Chef Sapna's Kerala

We thoroughly enjoyed the onam lunch and also all the home dining. Sapna and Sanjith ensured that we were all well taken care of. Sapna is very passionate about food and never fails to explain the cooking process, ingredients etc.

Aichoo Teh

Chef Sapna's Kerala

Stay

CHECK IN 03 Oct

2 N

CHECK OUT 05 Oct

Eighth Bastion, a CGH Earth experience

Kochi

CHECK IN 05 Oct

1 N

CHECK OUT 06 Oct

Spice Village, a CGH Earth experience

Thekkady

CHECK IN 06 Oct

2 N

CHECK OUT 08 Oct

Coconut Lagoon, a CGH Earth experience

Kumarakom

Your Daily Itinerary

Thu 03 Oct

Arrive Kochi

Welcome to Kochi, where history, culture, and cuisine intertwine. Our representative awaits your arrival at the airport for a seamless transfer to your hotel. Take in the city's charm as you wander cobblestone streets, adorned with tales of colonial legacies. Let the spirit of Kochi captivate your senses and leave an indelible mark on your journey.

Meals Included: None

Activities

Meet and greet Kochi Airport

17:00 - 23:00

Arrive at Kochi Airport (Airport code: COK). Once you retrieve your luggage and exit the arrival area, look for our representative holding a JrnyOn signboard who will take you to your hotel in a pre-arranged vehicle.

Fri 04 Oct

A Day in Kochi

Start your day bright and early with a morning visit to a lively fish market, buzzing with fishermen and locals. We return to the hotel for breakfast. Meet your fellow travellers and Chef Sapna for breakfast before you head out to explore the streets of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. Walk through aromatic spice markets and take in the colonial architecture. Take a stroll through Jew Town and see the iconic bamboo fish nets at Fort Kochi beach.

Uncover Kerala’s flavours through a cooking demonstration with Chef Sapna before enjoying a sumptuous lunch filled with local delicacies. As evening sets in, embark on a sunset cruise to witness the city bathed in golden hues. Witness the timeless rhythm of coastal life as fishermen return with their catch.

Return to the hotel for a break and then head to indulge in an welcome dinner at a local restaurant to taste the variety of cuisine that Kerala has to offer — the perfect end to an eventful day.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Activities

Fish Market visit

06:30 - 08:00

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

Welcome briefing and intro to Chef Sapna

08:00 - 09:00

The adventure officially begins! Meet Chef Sapna and your fellow travellers over a delicious breakfast and gear up for the day.

Mattancherry spice market and Jew Town

09:00 - 11:00

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.

Discover Fort Kochi

11:00 - 12:00

Enjoy a curated tour of Fort Kochi with a local guide, showcasing the mixed Dutch, Portuguese, British and Jewish influences.

Culinary workshop & lunch

12:00 - 14:00

Participate in an interactive culinary workshop with a local chef. Dive into the flavours of Kerala during a leisurely lunch, where you'll experience the genuine warmth of Syrian Christian hospitality.

Kochi harbour cruise

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.

Dinner at a local restaurant

18:45 - 20:00

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner with a variety of dishes from traditional Keralan Malabar cuisine at a local restaurant.

Sat 05 Oct

Drive Kochi to Thekkady

Head to Thekkady, to a luscious spice plantation that will also be your home for the night. Savour a delightful lunch amidst the greenery, tasting authentic regional cuisine.

Explore vegetable markets to bring back fresh ingredients for your meal. Walk through a spice plantation with a guided tour, learning about Kerala's iconic spices. Engage in an interactive cooking class with a professional chef, crafting traditional dishes with fresh ingredients and spices.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities

Transfer Kochi to Thekkady

06:30 - 16:30

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 enroute.
Distance: 158 km / 99 mi
Duration: 4.5 hrs

Breakfast with a local family

08:30 - 10:00

Experience in the delightful flavours of a traditional Kerala-style breakfast with a local family

Transfer 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 Local Home

12:00 - 13:30

Enjoy an authentic and intimate culinary experience with a home-cooked lunch at a local residence, offering a taste of traditional flavors and warm hospitality.

Spice plantation visit

16:30 - 18:00

We will visit a spice plantation, where Cardamom is the primary spice grown along with pepper and other spices.

Dinner at your hotel

20:00 - 21:30

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner with a variety of dishes at your hotel.

Sun 06 Oct

Alleppey Backwaters & Kumarakom

Embark on a picturesque drive to Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East, and board a houseboat for a leisurely backwater cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch onboard, showcasing authentic Kerala cuisine, and make stops to purchase fresh fish from local fishermen.

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.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Alleppey Backwaters & Kumarakom - Day 4 image

Activities

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

Riceboat cruise and lunch

12:00 - 16:00

Enjoy a day cruise in Alleppey with a local lunch aboard a traditional rice boat. Make stops to purchase fresh fish. End the cruise at Kumarakom, your final stop for the day.

Dinner at your hotel

19:00 - 21:00

Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight

Mon 07 Oct

A Day in Kumarakom

Visit a local village to experience the rural lifestyle to witness the traditional way of life, engaging in conversations with residents to glean insights into their experiences and cherished traditions.

Enjoy a unique lunch experience with innovative Kerala cuisine, blending traditional meals with modern twists or fusion dishes. Choose from a variety of options, each offering a glimpse into Kerala's vibrant culinary traditions.

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

Partake in a cooking class featuring Keralan 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. Immerse yourself in Kerala's cultural heritage with captivating performances of Mohiniyattam before your farewell dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Activities

Visit to a Local Village

09:00 - 11:00

Visit a local village and engage in conversations with residents over tea and pakoras.

Enjoy a traditional lunch

12:00 - 13:00

Indulge in a traditional Kerala local lunch (Sadhya) and savour the diverse flavours and rich culinary heritage of the region.

Free afternoon to relax

15:00 - 17:00

In the afternoon, take your time to explore the surroundings at your own pace or indulge in a selection of Ayurvedic massages and therapies tailored to your individual needs.

Cooking class with Hotel

18:30 - 19:30

Join a cooking class focused on crafting traditional Keralan cuisine delights with seasoned chefs.

Farewell dinner

19:30 - 21:30

Commemorate your farewell evening with a sumptuous dinner planned by Chef Sapna

Tue 08 Oct

Depart Kumarakom - Kochi

Kumarakom to Kochi
After a late morning checkout in Kumarakom, embark on a scenic drive to Kochi, which typically takes around 2 hours. Enjoy the picturesque route, soaking in the beauty of Kerala's landscapes. Upon arrival in Kochi, relish a flavorful lunch at a local restaurant, immersing yourself in the diverse tastes of Kerala cuisine.

The afternoon is yours to explore Kochi at your own pace, shopping for souvenirs and soaking up the city's vibrant atmosphere. In the evening, make your way to Kochi airport for your return flight home, ensuring ample time for travel and any potential traffic delays.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Activities

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.

Farewell to Chef Sapna

10:00 - 10:30

Conclude your culinary journey with a heartfelt farewell talk by Chef Sapna, who will share her passion for traditional cuisine and the stories behind the dishes you've enjoyed. This memorable session offers a personal glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Boat transfer to demo class

12:00 - 12:30

Experience a scenic boat transfer as you glide across serene waters, setting the stage for an immersive demo class in a tranquil and picturesque setting. This journey offers both relaxation and a unique approach to learning.

Cooking demonstration and Lunch

12:30 - 15:30

Dig into a delicious local lunch in Kochi as your final meal of the trip.

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 to Kochi airport

19:00 - 20:00

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

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 cuisines 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!

No, the trip cost does not include the international to and from Kochi (COK). Please book your flights in order to arrive Kochi (COK) on the 3 Feb or earlier.

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

Yes, arrival and departure airport transfers are included. These transfers might be shared with other members of your tour. You will find the JrnyOn airport representative waiting for you at the arrival hall with a signboard.

Your welcome briefing is at 17:30 pm on Day 1. So you can arrive and check-in earlier in the day to be able to attend the welcome briefing accordingly. If you will like to arrive earlier and require help with your pre night accommodation or any pre tour arrangements, please write to [email protected]

You can depart late evening. As you have activities until late afternoon. If you are departing on a later day and require help with your post night accommodation or any post tour arrangements, please write to [email protected]

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 for Kerala. October and February the weather is generally very pleasant. Other essential items that you should add to your travel kit are hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, etc, comfortable walking shoes etc.,

- 25% advance payment (fully refundable) is required to confirm the booking.

- Balance full payment to be done 65 days before the date of travel

- Till 65 days, 100% refundable

- From 64 onwards 100% cancellation charges

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