Kerala Beaches and Backwaters

A combination of sightseeing, messing around in boats, watching wildlife and lazing by the beach, this holiday is perfect for all the family. You'll be introduced to the laid-back South Indian lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to meet local people and sample delicious, subtly-spiced food.

Starting in Kochi, with its busy harbour and historic buildings, your South Indian journey will take you deep into the beguiling Kerala backwaters where you'll see daily life in and around the water, watching from your very own houseboat. Back on dry land you'll be shown around a spice plantation and might end up helping with the harvest! You also have the chance to meet local families and learn how they make a living from cultivation and are using sustainable farming practices to conserve the environment as well as generate an income. And finally...there's the beach! Miles of golden sand lapped by the Indian Ocean. You'll have three days to spend doing just what you want. There's loads to do if you want to, but you might just prefer to lie back in a hammock beneath the tall coconut palms...

We've chosen some pretty special places to stay, too. Your Kochi hotel has the best views in town, overlooking the harbour, while your houseboat is blend of traditional design and modern comforts. In Periyar your home is a thatched-roof cottage in a recreated mountain village set in 14 acres of gardens. Your final hotel is an idyllic beach-front resort, where tropical flowers attract an array of birds and butterflies, and the pace of life is totally unhurried. Three days may not be long enough - you can always add more!