10 Must-Do Activities on a Luxury Holiday in Kerala
1. Cruise the Backwaters on a Luxury Houseboat
Overview:
A quintessential Kerala experience, cruising the backwaters offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom are an intricate network of canals, lakes, and lagoons, creating a unique ecosystem that is best explored by houseboat.
Experience:
Luxury Accommodation:
Stay in well-appointed houseboats that offer modern amenities and comfort akin to a floating five-star hotel. These houseboats feature spacious bedrooms, private balconies, and en-suite bathrooms.Gourmet Dining:
Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala cuisine made by your personal chef, with dishes ranging from traditional fish curry to exotic tropical fruits.Scenic Views:
Glide through the tranquil waters, surrounded by lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and diverse wildlife. Spot kingfishers, cormorants, and other bird species native to the region.
Highlight:
Watching the sunset from the deck as the sky transforms into a palette of vibrant colors, offering a magical end to your day. The serene ambiance of the backwaters at dusk, combined with the gentle lapping of water against the houseboat, creates a truly enchanting experience.
2.Rejuvenate with Ayurvedic Treatments
Overview:
Kerala is the cradle of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes holistic healing. Ayurvedic treatments in Kerala are renowned for their effectiveness in promoting wellness and relaxation, using natural herbs and oils.
Experience:
Customized Therapies:
Receive personalized treatments based on your body type (dosha) and specific needs. Common therapies include Abhyanga (full body massage), Shirodhara (oil poured on the forehead), and Panchakarma (detoxification process).Natural Ingredients:
Treatments utilize herbal oils, medicinal plants, and other natural ingredients known for their healing properties. The oils and herbs are often sourced locally and prepared according to traditional recipes.Holistic Healing:
Enjoy a combination of massages, yoga, meditation, and a prescribed Ayurvedic diet to achieve balance and harmony in your body and mind.
Highlight:
The sense of complete relaxation and rejuvenation you feel post-treatment, enhancing your overall well-being and leaving you refreshed and revitalized.
3. Stay at a Heritage Hotel
Overview:
Kerala's heritage hotels offer a unique blend of history, luxury, and culture. These properties, often centuries-old palaces and mansions, have been meticulously restored to offer modern comforts while retaining their historical charm.
Experience:
Architectural Grandeur:
Marvel at traditional Kerala architecture, featuring intricately carved wooden ceilings, antique furnishings, and expansive courtyards. These buildings reflect the region's rich architectural heritage and craftsmanship.Personalized Service:
Experience royal treatment with personalized services, including butler service, private dining, and curated experiences. Staff at these heritage hotels are trained to provide exceptional service tailored to your needs.Cultural Immersion:
Participate in cultural performances, traditional activities, and heritage walks. Many heritage hotels organize classical dance and music performances, storytelling sessions, and demonstrations of traditional arts and crafts.
Highlight:
A stay at a heritage property like the Brunton Boatyard in Kochi or Chittoor Kottaram in Ernakulam offers a glimpse into Kerala's regal past and allows you to live like royalty.
4. Explore Munnar’s Tea Gardens
Overview:
Munnar, a picturesque hill station in Kerala, is known for its sprawling tea plantations that stretch as far as the eye can see. The cool climate and mist-covered hills make it an ideal destination for tea cultivation and a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Experience:
Guided Tours:
Walk through lush tea gardens with a knowledgeable guide who can explain the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to processing them in the factory. Learn about the history of tea cultivation in the region and the different types of tea produced.Tea Tasting:
Sample various teas and learn about their unique flavors and aromas. Tea tasting sessions often include a variety of black, green, and white teas, allowing you to appreciate the subtle differences between each type.Colonial Bungalows:
Stay in luxurious colonial-era bungalows amidst the tea estates, offering breathtaking views and a taste of colonial charm. These bungalows, once home to British planters, have been converted into boutique hotels with modern amenities.
Highlight:
The breathtaking views of the rolling hills covered in a green carpet of tea plants, coupled with the crisp mountain air, make for an unforgettable experience.
5. Wildlife Safari in Periyar National Park
Overview:
Periyar National Park, located in Thekkady, is one of Kerala's most famous wildlife sanctuaries. It offers an exciting opportunity to witness the state's rich biodiversity in their natural habitat.
Experience:
Guided Safaris:
Take a guided jeep or boat safari through the park to explore its diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and a variety of bird species. The boat safari on Periyar Lake offers a unique perspective of the park's wildlife.Wildlife Spotting:
Look for elephants, tigers, and a variety of birds and other wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon safaris are ideal times for spotting animals as they come to the lake to drink.Eco-Lodges:
Stay in luxurious eco-lodges that blend comfort with nature. These lodges are designed to minimize their environmental impact while providing a high level of comfort and service.
Highlight:
The thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural surroundings and the serene boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can see animals coming to the water's edge to drink and bathe.
6. Visit the Beaches of Kovalam and Varkala
Overview:
Kerala's coastline is dotted with stunning beaches, and Kovalam and Varkala are two of the most popular destinations for beach lovers. These beaches offer a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.
Experience:
Luxury Resorts:
Stay in beachfront resorts offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. These resorts provide a range of luxury amenities, including private beaches, infinity pools, and fine dining restaurants.Water Sports:
Engage in activities like surfing, parasailing, and scuba diving. Kovalam is particularly known for its surf-friendly waves, while Varkala offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.Spa Treatments:
Unwind with spa treatments at beachside spas, where you can enjoy massages, facials, and other therapies while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Highlight:
The picturesque Varkala cliff, with its stunning sunset views and therapeutic mineral springs, offers a unique and unforgettable beach experience.
7. Enjoy a Kathakali Performance
Overview:
Kathakali, Kerala’s traditional dance-drama, is a captivating art form known for its elaborate costumes, expressive gestures, and intricate makeup. It is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing Kerala's cultural heritage.
Experience:
Live Performances:
Witness a live Kathakali performance in theaters or cultural centers. These performances often depict stories from Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, brought to life through dance, music, and drama.Behind the Scenes:
Get a backstage tour to see the intricate makeup process. The makeup, known as "chutti," is a labor-intensive process that can take several hours to complete.Cultural Insight:
Learn about the stories and significance behind the performances. Many theaters offer pre-show introductions that explain the basic elements of Kathakali and the storyline of the performance.
Highlight:
The vibrant and dramatic performance, combined with the intricate makeup and elaborate costumes, provides deep insights into Kerala’s cultural heritage and leaves a lasting impression.
8. Discover Kochi’s Historical and Cultural Heritage
Overview:
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a melting pot of cultures with a rich history influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. This port city is a fascinating blend of old and new, offering a unique cultural experience.
Experience:
Heritage Walks:
Explore Fort Kochi and Mattancherry with guided heritage walks. These areas are home to historic buildings, colonial architecture, and charming streets lined with cafes and boutiques.Historic Sites:
Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India; Dutch Palace, with its impressive murals; and the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth.Art and Craft:
Browse art galleries and local markets for unique souvenirs. Kochi is known for its vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries showcasing contemporary Indian art.
Highlight:
: A sunset stroll along the Fort Kochi beach, with the iconic Chinese fishing nets in view, offers a picturesque end to a day of exploration.
9. Attend a Traditional Kerala Cooking Class
Overview:
Kerala's cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors and spices, influenced by its rich history and diverse culture. Learning to cook traditional Kerala dishes is a rewarding experience that allows you to bring a taste of Kerala back home.
Experience:
Interactive Classes:
Participate in hands-on cooking classes in a local home or culinary school. These classes are led by experienced chefs who provide step-by-step instructions on preparing authentic Kerala dishes.Local Ingredients:
Use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to prepare dishes like appam (rice pancakes), avial (mixed vegetable curry), and fish moilee (coconut milk curry). Learn about the different spices used in Kerala cuisine and how to blend them to create complex flavors.Gastronomic Delight:
Enjoy a meal of the dishes you've prepared, often accompanied by traditional side dishes and desserts.
Highlight:
The joy of cooking and savoring a traditional Kerala feast, combined with the knowledge and skills you gain to recreate these dishes at home.
10. Experience Village Life
Overview:
Kerala's rural charm is best experienced by visiting traditional villages and interacting with the locals. These villages offer a glimpse into the simplicity and warmth of rural life, far from the hustle and bustle of urban areas.
Experience:
Village Tours:
Take guided tours to see paddy fields, coconut groves, and local handicrafts. Learn about traditional farming methods, watch artisans at work, and participate in activities like pottery and weaving.Homestays:
Stay with local families in luxurious homestays that offer a unique blend of traditional hospitality and modern comfort. Experience daily life in a Kerala village, from early morning chores to evening gatherings.Cultural Activities:
Participate in activities like folk dances, traditional music performances, and local festivals. Many villages have cultural centers that showcase the region's rich heritage through performances and demonstrations.
Highlight:
The opportunity to experience the simplicity and warmth of village life, offering a different perspective of Kerala and creating lasting memories.
Plan Your Luxury Holiday with Royal India Holidays
At Royal India Holidays, we pride ourselves on crafting bespoke luxury holidays that cater to your individual preferences and interests. Our expert travel consultants are dedicated to ensuring that your Kerala vacation is nothing short of extraordinary. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Personalized Itineraries: Tailored travel plans to match your unique preferences, ensuring a truly personalized experience.
- Premium Services: Top-tier accommodations, dining, and transportation, offering unparalleled comfort and luxury.
- Local Expertise:In-depth knowledge of Kerala’s hidden gems and must-see attractions, providing you with insider tips and recommendations .
- Sustainable Tourism: Commitment to responsible and eco-friendly travel practices, ensuring that your trip has a positive impact on the local environment and communities.
- 24/7 Support: Dedicated customer service to assist you throughout your journey, ensuring that all your needs are met and any issues are promptly addressed.
Conclusion
Kerala offers a myriad of luxurious experiences that promise to rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul. From serene backwaters and lush tea gardens to rich cultural performances and pristine beaches, this southern paradise has something for every discerning traveler. Royal India Holidays invites you to embark on a journey of opulence and discovery, where every detail is meticulously planned to ensure an unforgettable experience.
Book your bespoke luxury holiday to Kerala with Royal India Holidays today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Contact us now to start planning your dream vacation!