Culinary Tours Kerala

Tour Duration: 8 Nights – 9 Days
Routing: Cochin – Kumarakom – Thekkady – Cochin

Tour Highlights

This tour includes cooking demonstrations of Kerala and South Indian cuisine, along with an introduction to Indian spices.

Also enjoy the backwaters of Kerala aboard a traditional Rice Boat.

Food is an essential part of every traveller’s experience in India. The country offers one of the world’s most diverse and sophisticated culinary traditions. South Indian cuisine, in particular, is well known for its variety of flavours and regional specialities. Rich and aromatic, this cuisine makes extensive use of spices such as nutmeg, cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, tamarind, dried red chillies, bay leaf and fennel seeds (saunf), all of which are characteristic of the region. Rice forms the staple base of most dishes. Over generations, South Indians have perfected the art of creating flavourful meals using simple, natural ingredients.

Kerala is as enticing for its cuisine as it is for its natural beauty. The food here is characterised by the liberal use of fresh coconut and spices. Chutneys and pickles are an integral part of most meals. From simple vegetarian dishes to elaborate seafood preparations, Kerala cuisine offers a rich variety. Non-vegetarian dishes also occupy an important place in the local diet. One of the most appealing aspects of this cuisine is its minimal use of oil, sugar and artificial additives, making it both delicious and healthy. A traditional South Indian meal is typically served on a freshly cut banana leaf, adding to the overall dining experience.

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 01Cochin – Kumarakom (70 Km / approx. 2 Hrs)

Upon arrival in Cochin, you will be welcomed in the traditional Indian style with a ‘Swagat’. Our representative will assist you and transfer you to Kumarakom for check-in.

Kumarakom is a cluster of small islands located on the serene Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Kuttanad, known as the ‘Wonder Land’, is believed to lie below sea level and emerged as fertile marshland when the sea receded. With its network of lakes, canals and paddy fields, Kumarakom offers a tranquil and enchanting experience. A stay on traditional houseboats, known as Kettuvallams, is truly unique. Vembanad Lake is also home to a variety of marine life, including Karimeen (Pearl Spot fish), Chemeen (prawns) and Konju (tiger prawns).

In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise on a Rice Boat. Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Overnight Hotel – Kumarakom (D)

Day 02Kumarakom

Enjoy a short cruise to Philip Kutty’s Farm, a small homestead located on an island. Witness the cultivation of tropical fruits and vegetables, followed by a brief demonstration of simple home cooking. Return to the hotel for an interactive session on backwaters, food and cooking, along with a cooking demonstration, followed by lunch.

A cultural show will be held in the evening, followed by dinner.
Overnight Hotel – Kumarakom (B, L, D)

Day 03Kumarakom

Proceed for a demonstration of the preparation of a traditional Sadhya (vegetarian wedding feast). Enjoy lunch served on banana leaves, traditionally eaten by hand. The afternoon is at leisure. In the evening, attend a cultural performance followed by dinner.
Overnight Hotel – Kumarakom (B, L, D)

Day 04Kumarakom – Thekkady (175 Km / approx. 4 Hrs)

Proceed to Periyar and check in at the hotel, followed by lunch.

Periyar (Thekkady) is one of India’s most fascinating wildlife sanctuaries, offering opportunities to observe wildlife at close range. The sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including diverse flora, fauna and birdlife. The landscape evokes vivid images of elephants, rolling hills and spice-scented plantations. It is among the best destinations in the country for wildlife viewing and photography. Notable inhabitants include tigers, majestic Asiatic elephants and the distinctive Nilgiri langur.

Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Overnight Hotel – Thekkady (B, L, D)

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Day 05Thekkady

Visit spice and tea plantations. Lunch will be at leisure. Later in the afternoon, participate in a cooking demonstration focused on cooking with spices.

Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Overnight Hotel – Thekkady (B, L, D)

Day 06Thekkady – Cochin (200 Km / approx. 5 Hrs)

Drive to Cochin, stopping en route at a Plantation Bungalow for a traditional home-style lunch.

Cochin has historically been an important trading port with strong links to the Middle East, Mediterranean Europe and the Dutch. It boasts one of the finest natural harbours along the Arabian Sea. Its cosmopolitan character is reflected in its architecture, showcasing influences from various parts of the world.
Overnight Hotel – Cochin (B, L, D)

Day 07Cochin

Proceed for a city tour of Cochin, including visits to the historic Spice Market at Mattancherry and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. Later, enjoy a themed ‘History Lunch’ at the hotel.

In the evening, attend a Kathakali dance performance, followed by dinner.
Overnight Hotel – Cochin (B, L, D)

Day 08Cochin

Today, enjoy a hands-on cooking experience with hotel chefs, learning the nuances of Kerala cuisine. The afternoon is at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise at the harbour, followed by a farewell dinner.
Overnight Hotel – Cochin (B, L, D)

Day 09Depart Cochin

Conclude the tour with sweet and spicy memories of India. Assistance will be provided for a timely transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Our tour concludes: Caper thanks you for your patronage and looks forward to welcoming you again in the near future.

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