Exceptional Kerala and The Maldives
Cochin, Thekkady, Backwaters, Lake Vembenad & The MaldivesCaptivating culture, tempting cuisine and an exclusive houseboat stay in Kerala. Followed by white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and luxurious contemporary accommodation in the Maldives, this two-week itinerary is perfect for those looking to combine culture with a dose of relaxation. We’ve hand-picked the very best hotels and lodges along with the best expert guides to make sure every stop on this trip promises unique charm and seamless service.
At a glance
Immerse yourself in the energetic city of Cochin and amble through the narrow streets to visit the magical Temples, Churches and enthralling Antique shops
Meander through luscious spice plantations, unveil renowned fruits and spot extraordinary wildlife in the luxurious plantation retreat located in the heart of Thekkady and near to Periyar Wildlife Reserve
Sink into relaxation on an idyllic island in the Maldives and feel a sense of calm wash over you as you embrace pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters
Take to the backwaters of Kerala and simply sit and watch the world go by as you embark on your private, rustic houseboat for the night
Journey highlights
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Immerse yourself in the energetic city of Cochin and amble through the narrow streets to visit the magical Temples, Churches and enthralling Antique shops
-
Meander through luscious spice plantations, unveil renowned fruits and spot extraordinary wildlife in the luxurious plantation retreat located in the heart of Thekkady and near to Periyar Wildlife Reserve
-
Sink into relaxation on an idyllic island in the Maldives and feel a sense of calm wash over you as you embrace pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters
-
Take to the backwaters of Kerala and simply sit and watch the world go by as you embark on your private, rustic houseboat for the night
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
Isolated from much of India by the Western Ghats, the climate of Kerala & Karnataka is tropical and as a result of the mountain ranges the area isn’t as dry as much of India. The best time to visit is from January through to April. While there can be the occasional light showers these are just a prelude of the wet weather to come. The monsoon season arrives in early June and thus can wash out July and August. September is much more humid as a result of the rainy season, and the fall can be dry but with the humidity this makes it feel quite the warm. There can be a little rain in the night in October and November. The temperatures cool down and the humidity lets up as winter comes in around December, with this season lasting until February when the dry spring returns.
The Maldives has a tropical climate distinguished by two seasons, or monsoons: the dry northeast monsoon which runs from December to March, and the wet southwestern monsoon from May to November, with more strong winds and rain. April is a transitional period noted for clear water and heat. The temperature remains remarkably consistent at around 30°C.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | $3,600 | $900 | plan your trip |
| June | $3,600 | $900 | plan your trip |
| July | $3,600 | $900 | plan your trip |
| August | $4,600 | $1,200 | plan your trip |
| September | $3,600 | $900 | plan your trip |
| October | $3,600 | $900 | plan your trip |
| November | $3,600 | $900 | plan your trip |
| December | $4,600 | $1,200 | plan your trip |
| January | $4,600 | $1,200 | plan your trip |
| February | $4,600 | $1,200 | plan your trip |
| March | $4,100 | $1,000 | plan your trip |
| April | $4,100 | $1,000 | plan your trip |
-
May
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$3,600
Deposit from*$900
-
June
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$3,600
Deposit from*$900
-
July
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$3,600
Deposit from*$900
-
August
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$4,600
Deposit from*$1,200
-
September
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$3,600
Deposit from*$900
-
October
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$3,600
Deposit from*$900
-
November
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$3,600
Deposit from*$900
-
December
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$4,600
Deposit from*$1,200
-
January
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$4,600
Deposit from*$1,200
-
February
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$4,600
Deposit from*$1,200
-
March
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$4,100
Deposit from*$1,000
-
April
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$4,100
Deposit from*$1,000
- plan your trip
Itinerary
Kerala and Karnataka
Touch down at Cochin International Airport and be greeted by your expert guide and driver before heading to Brunton Boatyard, your home for the next two nights. Built in the style of early Dutch and Portuguese architecture and resembling the old colonial buildings of Cochin, Brunton Boatyard will transport you back in time to its Arab, Chinese and European heritage. Take time after your flight to settle into your hotel and make use of its facilities. Master the culinary skills of basic Keralan cuisine in a captivating cooking class. Take a splash in the infinity pool that overlooks the harbor or chill out in the library with an enticing good book.
Feeling revitalised after your flight, dive into the vigorous city of Cochin with your expert guide and unveil its legendary secrets. You’ll head out early morning, beginning your tour at the Chinese Fishing nets and local vegetable market. Venture into the town center and discover the collection of grand Catholic Churches and vibrant Hindu Temples nestled among old colonial houses built in Portuguese, Dutch and British styles. Amble the narrow bustling streets, mooch the colorful merchant stalls and enjoy delicious street food before heading back to your hotel. Freshen up for the evening and watch a traditional Kathakali Dance show, soaking up the creative make up, extravagant costumes and facial expressions of this conventional style of dance. Allow us to book you a table in one of the three outstanding hotel restaurants for a delicious dining experience to round off your stay.
Kerala and Karnataka
Feeling revitalized from your hillside retreat, drive four hours south to the Backwaters and embark on a private converted rice barge for a truly immersive houseboat experience. Float through the intricate maze of peaceful lakes, channels and lagoons and take in the laid-back day to day life of those living in and around the backwaters. From agile men collecting coconuts from the top of the trees to excited children running along the riverbanks as they make their way to school, you can simply sit and watch the world go by. Drift past luscious paddy fields and look out for the wealth of bird species living here. As the day comes to a close, relax with a tropical drink while the sun sets and enjoy a fragrant Keralan dinner prepared by your talented chef onboard.
Accommodation: Houseboat Lakes and Lagoons ( 1 night )Kerala and Karnataka
Kickstart the day with an energising breakfast onboard, before edging back to the dock in the mid-morning. Step off the tourist trail and leap into the last leg of your Indian escapade as you’re whisked to Lake Vembenad for your final two nights. Staying at the luxurious Purity, you’ll be tucked away among the flourishing vegetation that sits along the waterfront. Each of the rooms boast astounding views overlooking the lake, creating a serene setting to end your Indian trip. Lake Vembenad is the longest lake in India, spanning several districts in Kerala and home to an abundance of wildlife. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and embrace the daily morning yoga practices. Take to the water on a modest rowing boat and explore hidden inlets around the lake. Repose by the swimming pool, relax in the spa or take a visit to the astounding Mannarashala Temple and ancient Krishna Puram Palace. Purity offers a whole host of activities for you to lean into and you can embrace as many or little as you wish. Round off your Keralan adventure dining under the stars and overlooking the peaceful lake.
Accommodation: Purity ( 2 nights )Maldives
After an early morning breakfast your driver will take you back to Cochin International Airport for your connecting flight to the Maldives.
Characterised by palm fringed beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, the Maldives is the epitome of relaxation and the perfect luxurious haven to end your trip. Spend your days with sand between your toes and salty sea air through your hair. The next 5 days can be spent relaxing by the beach, swimming in the pool, snorkeling over the vibrant house reef and soaking up first-class sunsets from the overwater Chill Bar with a cold glass of champagne in hand. In the evening, experience some of the best hospitality in the world and toast to an unforgettable trip under a blanket of stars.
Accommodation: Velassaru ( 5 nights )Call us on 858 523 9000 to start planning your holiday.
Experiences included in this itinerary
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Read more
Backwaters - Experience Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a village based on the edge of Lake Vembanadu. The village is beautifully laid out over a number of different picturesque islands and is a wonderful example of how people live in the backwaters.
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Read more
Jaipur - Walking Tour
A walking tour of Jaipur brings the city to life through its out of the way nooks and crannies, colorful markets and vibrant culture.
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Read more
Periyar - Spice Plantation
Visit a spice plantation and discover where many of the spices you have in your kitchen at home are grown naturally. This is a lovely experience for couples or families of all ages to enjoy.
Your Hotels
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
Isolated from much of India by the Western Ghats, the climate of Kerala & Karnataka is tropical and as a result of the mountain ranges the area isn’t as dry as much of India. The best time to visit is from January through to April. While there can be the occasional light showers these are just a prelude of the wet weather to come. The monsoon season arrives in early June and thus can wash out July and August. September is much more humid as a result of the rainy season, and the fall can be dry but with the humidity this makes it feel quite the warm. There can be a little rain in the night in October and November. The temperatures cool down and the humidity lets up as winter comes in around December, with this season lasting until February when the dry spring returns.
The Maldives has a tropical climate distinguished by two seasons, or monsoons: the dry northeast monsoon which runs from December to March, and the wet southwestern monsoon from May to November, with more strong winds and rain. April is a transitional period noted for clear water and heat. The temperature remains remarkably consistent at around 30°C.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on 858 523 9000 to start planning your vacation.
Why Scott Dunn?
At Scott Dunn, we live and breathe travel. An insatiable appetite to discover the world runs through everything we do. We relish the planning and revel in the detail. We know it’s the smallest touches that make the biggest difference, and we stop at nothing to make every trip not only exceptional but totally unique.
- Every itinerary is crafted from scratch, based around exactly what’s important to you
- Packed full of unique experiences, hand-picked by our journeys team
- Expert local guides enrich your experience in every destination
- Your own dedicated Travel Specialist who will take care of every detail of your trip
- We have a 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- We offer flexibility and financial protection to give you total peace of mind