We love —
- Wandering through mist-covered tea plantations in Munnar and feeling completely immersed in Kerala’s lush, timeless beauty.
- Gliding along the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional houseboat, surrounded by palm-lined shores and peaceful village life.
- Ending your journey in the Maldives and stepping straight onto soft white sands as golden light reflects across the calm waters of Baa Atoll.
Welcome to India & the Maldives —
Discover the magic of South India on a journey where lush landscapes, ancient traditions, and dreamlike beaches come together in perfect harmony. Explore Kerala, known as "God’s Own Country", where tranquil backwaters, endless tea plantations, and vibrant cities rich in history create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.
Choose the length of your stay:
- 11 nights: 7-night tour of India + 4 nights in the Maldives
- 13 nights: 7-night tour of India + 6 nights in the Maldives
- 15 nights: 7-night tour of India + 8 nights in the Maldives
- 17 nights: 7-night tour of India + 10 nights in the Maldives
- 19 nights: 7-night tour of India + 12 nights in the Maldives
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 7 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Moderate
Explore India
Embark on a captivating journey through South India and discover the cultural richness and natural beauty of Kerala. Explore the historic charm of Cochin, the misty tea-covered hills of Munnar, and the wildlife-rich landscapes of Periyar. Then unwind in Alleppey with an unforgettable night aboard a traditional houseboat drifting through serene backwaters. This exclusive 7-night private tour blends cultural discovery, authentic experiences, and breathtaking scenery for an immersive escape into the heart of South India.
7-night tour:
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi
Day 2: Kochi
Day 3: Kochi → Munnar
Day 4: Munnar
Day 5: Munnar → Periyar
Day 6: Periyar → Alleppey
Day 7: Alleppey → Kochi
Day 8: Departure from Kochi
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi
Arrive at Kochi International Airport (COK), where you are warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed evening in this historic port city, once a thriving hub of the spice trade and maritime journeys.
Included:
- Transfer from Kochi International Airport (COK)
- Night in Kochi
DAY 2: KOCHI
Explore the cultural layers of Kochi, from the Jewish Synagogue and Dutch Palace in Mattancherry to the iconic Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church. In the evening, witness the hypnotic beauty of a Kathakali performance as artists bring ancient stories to life through expressive dance and vibrant costumes.
Included:
- Breakfast & dinner included
- 1 x Kathakali dance performance in Kochi
- Night in Kochi
DAY 3: KOCHI → MUNNAR
Today, journey into the misty highlands of Munnar, a landscape of rolling tea plantations, cool air, and emerald valleys. Arrive and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in this peaceful hill station.
Included:
- Breakfast & dinner included
- Transfer to Munnar
- Night in Munnar
Day 4: Munnar
Discover the world of tea at the Tea Museum, then wander through lush plantations where endless green hills stretch into the mist. Experience local life and, if in season, try your hand at tea plucking.
Included:
- Breakfast & dinner included
- Night in Munnar
DAY 5: MUNNAR → PERIYAR
Journey through winding mountain roads and lush countryside as you descend into the rich greenery of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. On arrival, immerse yourself in the world of aromatic spice plantations, where cardamom, pepper, and vanilla grow in abundance. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Lake Periyar, where forested shores reveal glimpses of elephants, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Included:
- Breakfast & dinner included
- Transfer to Periyar
- 1 x boat ride in Lake Periyar
- Night in Periyar
Day 6: Periyar → Alleppey
Travel towards the serene backwaters of Alleppey and step aboard a traditional houseboat. Begin a gentle cruise through a labyrinth of palm-fringed canals, quiet villages, and emerald rice fields. As life unfolds along the waterways, experience the rhythm of Kerala’s countryside in its purest form, unhurried, intimate, and deeply atmospheric.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Transfer to Alleppey
- Night on board
DAY 7: ALLEPPEY → KOCHI
Disembark after breakfast and return to Kochi, travelling once more through Kerala’s scenic landscapes. The rest of the day is free for relaxation or independent exploration, whether strolling through the city, enjoying local cafés, or simply unwinding at the hotel.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Transfer to Kochi
- Night in Kochi
DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM KOCHI
Important information about your tour and visits:
The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully chosen hotels.
Kochi: CGH Earth Brunton Boatyard 5* or similar (Sea Facing Room)
Munnar: Amber Dale 5* or Similar (Premium Valley View Roo)
Periyar: CGH Earth Spice Village 4* or Similar (Spice Garden Cottage)
Alleppey: CGH Earth Spice Coast Houseboat 5* (Deluxe Room)
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Your dining choices
This is a half board stay. During your stay at the houseboat, you'll enjoy a full board stay. Your breakfast, lunch and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).
Treat yourself to a full board stay and upgrade at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast, lunch and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)
Your included extras —
English-speaking guide as per itinerary
An experienced English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour, bringing each destination’s history and culture to life.
Royal Island Resort & Spa 5* —
Just for you:
- Roundtrip domestic flights or seaplane transfers included (depending on your choice)
Set on the pristine island of Horubadhoo in the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, Royal Island Resort & Spa 5* is a five-star retreat offering an authentic Maldivian escape. This exclusive resort is surrounded by tropical greenery, powder-white beaches, and the shimmering turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
With a rich heritage of warm Maldivian hospitality, the resort provides elegant accommodations and world-class amenities. Guests can rejuvenate at the Araamu Spa, enjoy thrilling water sports, or simply unwind with a refreshing cocktail by the shore.
Your room —
Choose between a stay in a Beach Villa or a Beach Pool Villa.
Beach Villa (57 m²)
Surrounded by lush, tropical greenery while offering a picture-perfect view of the beach and ocean, the sublime Beach Villa offers the perfect respite during your Maldivian getaway.
This beautiful villa is designed in a traditional Maldivian style and features a private terrace with an open-air shower, a spa-like bathroom and a cosy bedroom to unwind in after a day on the beach or at the spa.
Beach Pool Villa (57 m²)
Ready to dive into paradise? The Beach Pool Villa is your personal slice of heave, with a private pool, direct access to a stunning beach, and tropical elegance at every turn. This is where your dream getaway comes to life.
Your dining choices
Just for you:
- 15% discount on à la carte restaurant
This is an all inclusive stay. Your breakfast, lunch, and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant, with a selection of snacks and drinks. Please see the ‘details’ tab for more information.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at Maakanaa, the resort’s main restaurant, offering a variety of international and local dishes. For a more refined dining experience, head to Raabondhi, a beachfront restaurant specialising in fresh seafood and premium grilled meats, served in a stunning oceanfront setting. Throughout the day, unwind at one of the resort’s three bars, where you can sip on tropical cocktails, fine wines, or refreshing beverages.
Your time
Just for you:
- 20% discount on spa treatments
- 10% discount on selected diving rates
- Complimentary snorkelling gear throughout your stay
Soak up the sun on the beach, cocktail in hand, or take advantage of the wide range of land and water sports on offer, from badminton and tennis to banana boating and snorkelling. Excursions such as night fishing, dolphin spotting, island hopping and speedboat trips are also available and can be booked at the hotel. The resort even boasts a PADI-certified dive centre.
If you feel the need for some pampering, look no further than Araamu Spa and revitalise your body and mind with Ayurvedic treatments from across Asia. Spa services include aromatherapy, a jacuzzi, a sauna, a steam room, reflexology, an in-house medical clinic, body scrubs, manicures and pedicures.
Your journey to India —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Transfers:
Sit back and enjoy the ride with included transfers to and from your beautiful hotel. The type of transfer is dependent on your hotel location and can be a domestic flight, speedboat or seaplane transfer (or a combination). Additional information for seaplane transfers (if included in your offer only):
If you choose one of our non-flight inclusive offers and wish to book your own flights to the Maldives, please plan to arrive in Malé before 3pm and depart after 10am, in order to take advantage of the seaplane/ speedboat transfers. If you plan to book your own flights outside the above-suggested times, you may need to source your own overnight accommodation (at your own expense).
- The seaplane transfer provider imposes a maximum luggage allowance of 20kg per person for hold luggage, and a maximum of 5kg per person for hand luggage. Additional weight will be charged per kg.
- Luggage for children under 2 years of age is not included in the luggage allowance. A supplement of $5 per kg will be payable on the spot.
- The hotel and transfer provider cannot be held responsible for any claims arising from missed international flights, delays in seaplane transfers caused by adverse weather conditions, or force majeure.
- Seaplanes operate during the day only. If you arrive in Malé on an international flight after 3pm, hotel transfers will be provided the following day and you will be responsible for arranging and paying for your overnight stay in Malé.
- In order to organise your airport/hotel/airport transfers, please provide us with your flight schedule within 96 hours of your booking by filling in the dedicated form in your member account. Without this information, your transfers cannot be carried out.
Your destinations —
India
India is a land of immense cultural diversity, offering an intriguing blend of ancient traditions, regional flavours, and natural beauty. From the tranquil backwaters of Kerala to the spiritual rhythms of Varanasi, every region offers its distinct charm. India invites travellers to explore both its renowned landmarks and its hidden gems, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Must-sees:
- The Taj Mahal in Agra is the epitome of Mughal architecture and eternal love.
- The forts and palaces of Jaipur, are where the opulence of Rajasthan's royal history comes alive.
- The markets of Mumbai, are a sensory delight of colours, sounds, and aromas, offering everything from textiles to spices.
Culinary culture:
Indian cuisine is a feast of contrasting textures and bold flavours. From the aromatic biryanis of Hyderabad to the street food of Delhi, the nation’s culinary scene is a vast mosaic of regional delicacies. Sample the famous chaat or a traditional thali, which offers an array of dishes to excite the palate. Spices like cumin, cardamom, and turmeric are integral, but each region brings its unique twist, from fiery South Indian curries to the milder, rich flavours of the North.
Dive deeper:
To truly understand India, immerse yourself in its lesser-known traditions. Visit the Ajanta and Ellora caves in Maharashtra, where ancient Buddhist paintings and sculptures reveal the spiritual history of the country. Engage with local artisans in Rajasthan’s vibrant craft workshops, or witness the understated beauty of a traditional Kathakali dance performance in Kerala. For those seeking tranquillity, a visit to an Ashram offers insight into India’s spiritual practices.
Good to know:
India is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is between October and March when temperatures are milder. The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), and most major cities have well-connected transport networks. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Be prepared for the sensory overload that characterises India’s vibrant culture and diverse landscapes.
Baa Atoll
Renowned as the only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, Baa Atoll is a rare jewel where nature thrives in extraordinary abundance. Unlike other atolls, it is celebrated for its exceptional marine biodiversity, pristine lagoons, and world-famous manta ray gatherings, making it a haven for divers and snorkellers alike.
Must-sees / Must-do:
- Hanifaru Bay: The atoll’s crown jewel and one of the best places on Earth to witness manta rays and whale sharks feeding together in season (June to November).
- Maaddoo and Dhonfanu reefs: Perfect for diving, with vibrant coral gardens, turtles, reef sharks, and shoals of colourful fish.
- Island hopping: From the secluded sandbanks of Kihaadhoo to the lush greenery of Kamadhoo, each island offers its own charm.
- Luxury eco-resorts: Stay at world-renowned retreats like Soneva Fushi or Milaidhoo, where barefoot luxury blends seamlessly with eco-conscious living.
Culinary culture:
Dining in Baa Atoll often focuses on the freshest catch of the day, tuna, lobster, and reef fish prepared Maldivian-style with coconut, curry, and spice. Resorts elevate this with gourmet experiences, from sandbank picnics to starlit fine dining under the palms.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the reefs, travellers can paddle through turquoise lagoons by kayak, join a marine biologist-led excursion, or take part in coral conservation projects. Sunset dolphin cruises add a magical touch to evenings on the water.
Good to know:
Baa Atoll is accessible via seaplane transfer from Malé. It stands apart from other northern atolls thanks to its UNESCO status and unmatched marine gatherings, making it a once-in-a-lifetime Maldivian escape.
