Kerala Onam Festival Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a tour of Kochi (Cochin) to discover its rich history and cultural landmarks. Start with a visit to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, established in the 16th century. Next, explore the Paradesi Synagogue, renowned for its historic significance and beautiful antique furnishings. Continue to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which showcases a blend of colonial architecture and traditional Kerala design. Visit Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica Fort, a stunning example of Indo-Gothic architecture, and the Indo-Portuguese Museum, which highlights the region's colonial heritage. See the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, an ancient fishing method that has become a symbol of Kochi, and take a leisurely stroll around Bolgatty Island, known for its picturesque views and the historic Bolgatty Palace. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, reflecting on the diverse experiences of the day.

After breakfast, head to Thripunithura to experience the vibrant Athachamayam Festival, marking the start of Onam and celebrating the victory of the Kochi King. This festival showcases Kerala's rich folk art and dance forms, highlighted by the elaborate makeup and costumes of the performers.
Post-lunch, enjoy the excitement of a boat race in Champakara village, a thrilling event that adds to the festival's festivities.
In the evening, attend a classical dance performance featuring South India's traditional styles such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam. These performances are renowned for their expressive storytelling through intricate gestures, elaborate costumes, and captivating music.
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, soaking in the cultural richness of the day.

On Thiruvonam, start your day with a visit to the Vamana Moorthy Temple in Thrikkakara village, where you can witness the vibrant Pooram celebration. Thrikkakara holds significant religious importance and adds to the festival's sacred atmosphere.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure, taking in the festive spirit of the city. In the evening, observe the preparation of Pulikali, a colorful folk performance featuring performers painted as tigers, and other traditional art forms. Enjoy the lively Onam festival procession, a grand display of Kerala's harvest festival celebrations. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, immersed in the cultural festivities of the day.

After breakfast, drive to Thrissur, often referred to as the cultural capital of Kerala. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, visit Vadakkumnathan Temple, a renowned shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, famous for its exquisite murals and traditional architecture.
Later, immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere by observing the vibrant festival procession, featuring Kummatikali and Pulikkali performances in Chembookavu and Olarikkara. The procession will include performers dressed as Mahabali, Krishna, and other mythological figures, adding to the festive ambiance.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, surrounded by Thrissur’s cultural richness.

After breakfast, visit several museums in Thrissur to delve into the region's rich cultural and historical heritage. 
Later, enjoy the Kummattikali procession in Kizhkenpattukara, where you'll witness the vibrant traditional mask dance performed to honor deities. Dancers, adorned in colorful masks and costumes, create a lively and festive atmosphere.
In the evening, take an excursion to Shornur for the Tholpavakoothu Shadow Puppet Show. This unique Kerala folk art form uses shadow puppetry to narrate stories, often drawn from Hindu epics like the Ramayana. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s cultural experiences.

After breakfast, drive to Kozhikode and check in at your hotel upon arrival. 
Later, visit a Kalaripayattu school in Kozhikode to witness this ancient martial art form, which is often described as the mother of all martial arts. Kalaripayattu combines elements of dance and combat, showcasing impressive rhythmical movements and traditional techniques that highlight its roots in both defense and performance. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, reflecting on the dynamic display of Kerala's martial heritage.

After breakfast, drive to Pollachi and check in at your hotel upon arrival. 
Pollachi, nestled near the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Western Ghats, offers a pleasant climate year-round. Pollachi ensures an amazing climate throughout the year. Tourists can indulge in shopping to their heart's content, especially coconuts, jaggery and vegetables. Additionally, Pollachi is renowned for its connection to the South Indian film industry, with over 1,500 movies shot in the region. Enjoy the blend of natural beauty and cinematic history. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, soaking in the charm of Pollachi.

After breakfast, drive to Madurai and check in at your hotel upon arrival. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of India's oldest and most revered Hindu temples. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and her consort Sundareshwar, the temple attracts millions of pilgrims annually. Next, visit the Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple and Palamuthirsolai Murugan Temple, both significant in local worship. Explore the Tirumal Nayak's Palace, known for its grandeur and historical importance. Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Alagar Koil and the Gandhi Museum, which offers insights into India’s independence struggle. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s spiritual and historical discoveries.

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and settle in for a restful stay. Munnar, known for its lush tea gardens, misty mountains, and tranquil environment, offers a perfect retreat from the bustle of city life. Enjoy the scenic beauty and cool climate of this charming hill station. Relax and unwind at the hotel, ready to explore Munnar's natural splendor in the days ahead.

Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of Munnar, renowned for its rolling tea plantations and mist-covered hills. Nestled at the confluence of Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundale streams, Munnar is a town in the Western Ghats mountain range famous for its tea estates, exotic lush greenery and craggy peaks. This majestic hill station was once the summer resort of the British government in South India. Begin your day with visits to the Mattupetty Dam, Kundale Lake, and Echo Point, each offering unique vistas and opportunities for relaxation. In the afternoon, head to Rajamalai (Eravikulam National Park) to spot the rare Nilgiri Tahr, a species of mountain goat endemic to the region. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, soaking in the serene atmosphere of Munnar.

After breakfast, drive from Munnar to Kochi, enjoying the scenic route back to the city. Upon arrival in Kochi, you’ll be transferred to Cochin International Airport. Here, you can catch your flight for your onward journey, carrying with you the memories of Kerala's stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences.