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The Jewish Trail

3nt Mumbai|2nt Pune|2nt Cochin|1nt Kumarakom|1nt Thekkady|2nt Kovalam and Poovar
The Jewish trail

Price

$2,416**per person on twin sharing

11nights & 12 days

PACKAGE OVERVIEW
Trace the steps of some enterprising ancestors who came to India's western shores way back in the 11th century. Explore some of the most ancient and multifaceted Jewish communities that, tradition relates, are as old as the Diaspora. This is a chance to savor some of the most stunning sights of India while also visit the earliest synagogues that still stand well-preserved by the Jews in India. There are 1600-years old copper plates, gold and silver decorated Torah-scrolls and paintings and other relics from the fascinating Jewish past in magnificent synagogues. Tour through the ancient and modern parts of cosmopolitan Mumbai, the calm colonies of Pune and the alluring backwaters of Kerala. Experience the lives of Jews settled in this part of the world - the Bene Israelis, the Jews of Cochin and the Baghdadis.
INCLUSIONS:
  • Accommodation for 11 nights on twin sharing room basis
  • Daily buffet breakfast
  • All transport services by an air-conditioned car
  • Local English speaking guide for sightseeing
  • Co-ordination services with local synagogues for visits / prayer services
  • Boat ride from Alleppey to Kumarakom through the backwaters
  • Kathakali dance show in Cochin
  • 2.58 % Government Service Tax
ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN MUMBAI

Upon your arrival at the Mumbai airport, you will be escorted to the hotel. In the afternoon, leave for a sight-seeing tour. Visit the best of British Mumbai and it's Gothic architecture. Start with the Gateway of India, the city's emblem, constructed to welcome King George V in 1911. Move on to the Prince of Wales Museum that boasts of sculptures, terracotta figurines, weaponry etc. from India's ancient and fascinating past. Drive by the Marine Drive for a sweeping view of Mumbai's skyscrapers by the sea. Stop at the Victoria Terminus, a Victorian giant of a building that is now a transportation hub but looks like a grand cathedral with carvings and stained-glass windows. Pick some unique curios at the colorful Crawford market. Have a relaxing dinner at the hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 2: MUMBAI

Start with the Israeli mohalla where the Bene Israelis first settled. Move to Byculla where the Baghdadi Jews established their colony. The Sassoon Docks here were constructed by the most well-known Jew in India, David Sassoon, a Baghdadi Jew who foresaw the growth of shipping here and built the first dock in Mumbai. The Jacob Sassoon School was originally built only for the Baghdadis. Today, with non-Jewish students as well, it is the only school in Mumbai where Hebrew is taught as the second language. Drop by at the Elphinstone High School built with the generous donations made by Sir Albert Sassoon. The Jewish Synagogue here is one of the 35 synagogues that were maintained by the community earlier. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 3: MUMBAI

Today you will visit Navagaon, the site where Bene Israeli ancestors first arrived after they were shipwrecked off the cost, about 20 miles south of the island of Mumbai. Supposed to belong to the lost ten tribes of Israel, only seven men and women survived the tragedy and the present Bene Israelis are the descendants of these 7 couples. Visit the Cemetary with two mounds believed to be the collective graves of those who drowned in the legendary shipwreck. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 4: MUMBAI - PUNE (BY FLIGHT)

Board the flight to Pune. Upon arrival, transfer and check into the hotel and rest for a while. Later, visit the National Defence Academy, a training ground for the 3 defence services, the Bund Gardens on the banks of the Mula River and the Snake Park with its fair collection of reptiles. A must-see is the Raja Kelkar Museum with its impressive assortment of about 17,000 artworks, bizarre musical instruments, strange locks, carved wooden doors etc. A delight for everyone. You will also visit the most important attraction of Pune, the Osho International Commune. The precincts of the Ashram houses a beautiful landscaped garden and a spacious prayer and meditation hall. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 5: PUNE

Today you will visit some ancient Jewish sites in the city. In the early 19th century, Bene Israel military pensioners settled in Thane and Pune. Gradually, Baghdadi Jews shifted to Pune in small numbers including the well-known philanthropist David Sassoon. He built the Magnificent Synagogue with tall, red spires that rise high above the surrounding buildings. He passed away in 1864 and lies buried in the Tomb here. Attend the prayer session and chat with the locals. Visit the Sassoon Hospital built in 1867 that still stands in its Gothic splendor. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 6: PUNE - MUMBAI - COCHIN (BY FLIGHT)

We help you transfer to the airport for the flight to Mumbai from where you will board the plane to Cochin. On arrival in Cochin, check into the hotel. Cochin or Kochi is an interesting and picturesque town with a long history and quaint red-tiled roof houses. It retains most of its relaxed and quiet atmosphere with Dutch, Jewish and British houses. By swaying coconut palms, start the sightseeing with the Dutch Palace built by the Portuguese and gifted to the King of Cochin in 1555. It has lavish interiors and a great collection of exhibits. In the evening, witness an enchanting Kathakali Dance performance. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 7: COCHIN

This day is dedicated to the Jewish places. Of the 7 Synagogues here, the Pardeshi Synagogue is still functional. This is the oldest in India. White-walled and tile-roofed, it has an inner courtyard lined with ancient Hebrew-inscribed gravestones. Past it's ornate, wrought iron gates, watch for the silver and gold decorated Torah Scrolls, an orient carpet and lots of other such interesting relics. The Synagogue is a protected monument and is guarded by an Indian Government guard. Trip down to Cochin's twin town, Ernakulam, that also once had a thriving Jewish community. Visit the Thekumbagum Synagogue on the Jew Street and the Kadavumbagham Synagogue. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 8: COCHIN - KUMARAKOM

Visit Kumarakom, one of the prettiest places in Kerala and the heart of the scenic backwaters. Drive via Alleppey, the point from where you take a backwater trip to Kumarakom. Visit the network of canals, inland lakes and lagoons that link remote villages and islands with the main land. Cruise through these and get a taste of the peaceful life of the village folk here. Green paddy fields, tall coconut trees and the shimmering waters make for a breathtaking view. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 9: KUMARAKOM - PERIYAR

Leave for Periyar in the Thekkady district of Kerala. On arrival, check into the hotel tucked away amidst sprawling spice plantations and dense forests. In these mountains is the stunning Periyar Lake and forest that shelters many an animal in its wildlife sanctuary. A habitat for elephants, bison, spotted deer, sambar, bear etc., there are a number of birds that you can spot too. Take jeep safari in to the Jungle. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 10: PERIYAR - KOVALAM

Leave for the rolling lands of Kovalam. Check into the hotel, an Ayurvedic beach resort. For the next 2 days, stay in cozy huts (all with modern amenities) that face the tranquil and breezy sea. Experience ayurveda, a traditional science of healthy living that was practiced by ancient physicians for sound health. Treat your body with relaxing massages done with therapeutic oils that drain toxic waste and re-balance bio-energies. Choose from various kinds of massages and elaborate rejuvenations therapies. Simply, just unwind with good, long massages by the sea-shore. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 11: KOVALAM

Full day at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Meals:


DAY 12: TRIVANDRUM DEPARTURE

Depart for Trivandrum Airport for your journey back home.

Meals:

HOTEL DETAILS

TAJ MALABAR

City: Cochin

The Taj Malabar, situated on the Wellingdon Island combines old-world elegance with modern day convenience. In its heritage wing, built in 1935, graceful Victorian interiors aptly reflect the inherent beauty of Cochin. Its tower wing houses guestroom suites, each a delicate mix of the classic with the contemporary.

Rooms
The rooms offer distinctive elegance with comfort. The Tower Wing Rooms are inspired by local architecture but infused with European elegance. The rooms offer a breathtaking view of the Chinese fishing nets or the harbour. Heritage Wing Rooms have graceful Victorian interiors with arched pillars. The newly renovated Executive Suites incorporate a separate living room and bedroom with traditionally carved ceiling. The suite offers a grand 4-poster bed, marble-clad bathroom, a breakfast table in the balcony and a breathtaking view of the waters and the islands beyond. The Deluxe Suite has graceful Victorian interiors and generous spaces appointed with ethnic artifacts. The suite includes a separate living room and bedroom, large king size bed, study area, dressing room, spacious bathroom, and a private terrace garden with a balcony overlooking the backwaters. All rooms have wireless Internet connectivity, international direct dialing facility, electronic safe, mini bar, hair dryer and television with satellite programs. All rooms also offer mineral water, tea/coffee maker, and a fruit platter.

Dining
From casual, all-day eateries to formal, fine dining, you can sample from a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks at the Taj. The dining culture at Taj explores the nuances of the finest Indian and international cuisines, serving traditional and contemporary favourites. Dolphin's Point is a seasonal open-air restaurant by the bayside that offers outstanding barbeques and grills. The Pepper is an all-day diner that offers a variety of cuisines as well as soothing views of the backwaters and lush gardens. If you love seafood, hit the The Rice Boat which is seafood specialty restaurant that offers a layout and decor inspired by a traditional 'kettuvalam' rice boat; the garden entrance takes the form of a full-scale prow with an authentic cane roof and lanterns adding to the ambience. And if you want to sample some of the most authentic Thai food in Kerela, The Thai Pavilion is where you should go. Mattancherry Bar is a relaxing lobby lounge bar that offers plenty of fine spirits from around the world.

Facilities
At Taj Malabar, you are offered quality facilities and distinctive services. Business services include copier, laptop computers on hire, mobile phones on hire, multimedia computers, portable printers on hire, secretarial services, wireless Internet access and workstations. The meeting-cum-banquet rooms can seat 30-300 persons or 25-250 persons for cocktails/receptions. The hotel also provides a business centre with a boardroom. Boat cruises with cocktails/lunch/dinner on board can also be arranged. A range of theme options are also available. Leisure and other services include babysitting, beauty parlour/salon, car hire service, currency exchange, doctor-on-call, express laundry/dry cleaning, florist and travel assistance.
Fitness and fun facilities include backwater cruises, chill shower, fitness centre, Jacuzzi, souvenir shop, bookshop, speed boat rides, stam room, swimming pool and Taj Cinnamon Coast Luxury Yatch. For kids, there are board games, fishing, kite making, playstation and movies, pool games, story telling and table tennis. Taj Spa's abode is a separate Spa villa that has double treatment rooms and four Ayurveda rooms which allow you to experience this age-old, holistic therapy in quiet.

Location
Situated on Willingdon Island with a magnificent view of Cochin harbour, the Taj Malabar is strategically placed to explore the beaches as well as the city of Cochin.


SPICE VILLAGE

City: Thekkady

The hotel is located 145 kilometers from Cochin airport, 74 kilometers from Kottayam railway station, 90 kilometers from the backwaters in Kumarakom and 32 kilometers from Thekkady. It is also just 3 kilometers from the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. On entering the Spice Village you will be struck first by the resort's serene settings, the homey, spacious, impeccably kept thatched roof cottages nestled amidst a lush leafy garden of pepper vines, cardamom plants, lemon grass and much more. The mesmerizing fragrance of the place assaults your nostrils as you step into an alternate world which proves to be the essence of eco - friendly.

Hotel Facilities

Restaurant | 24-Hour Front Desk | Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests | Elevator | Express Check-In/Check-Out | Air Conditioning | Room Service | Airport Shuttle | Laundry | Dry Cleaning | Currency Exchange | Tour Desk | Fax/Photocopying | Concierge Service | Massage | Billiards | Table Tennis | BBQ Facilities | Turkish/Steam Bath | Outdoor Swimming Pool (all year)

Room Amenities

The resort has a total of 52 rooms which are all housed in individual cottages. 47 Standard Cottages with elephant grass thatched roofs are present amidst spice gardens and 5 Deluxe Cottages hold their own with private gardens and large spaces. They look like full fledged bungalows from the exterior. These cottages and rooms seem like they belong on this hotels premises with their understated elegance and tasteful furnishings. The rooms have a terracotta tiled flooring.

Ceiling fan | Coffee/tea maker | Direct-dial phone| Minibar | Electronic safes | Hairdryers| One bottle of complimentary mineral water per day

Internet: Available | Parking Facility: Available

Check-In Time: 12:00 p.m. | Check-Out Time: 12:00 p.m.


ROYAL ORCHID CENTRAL HOTEL

City: Pune


RENAISSANCE MUMBAI HOTEL

City: Mumbai


POOVAR ISLAND RESORT

City: Kovalam and Poovar

Unspoilt and miraculously unexplored, Poovar Island is a rare find in Southern Kerala. Enveloped by the most serene backwaters and opening out to the Sea and a dream golden beach, this Island Resort is truly a window into paradise.

Room Amenities
Poovar Island Resort features a total of 64 cottages set in a spacious 22 acres. Charming land cottages, built in typical Kerala architecture offer traditional ambience combined with state-of-the-art facilities. All the cottages are equipped with the facilities to make your stay supremely enjoyable. The vast and cosy interiors, typical Kerala style furniture, air conditioned, satellite television, mini bar, attached bath with hot and cold water provisions. The ground floor rooms have a large private verandah facing the coconut groves.

The hotel also offers 16 floating cottages. These well appointed cottages also have living rooms, and all the amenities of land cottages. The bedrooms with one entire wall in glass and a large private deck offer glorious views of the estuary and the beach. Standard services include daily fruit basket, evening snacks and soft bar besides complimentary breakfast service in your cottages.

Dining
The multi-cuisine restaurant 'Tiffins' offers a delectable choice of Continental, Asian, Indian and Kerala cuisine to choose from. 'The Fish Market' is a specialty sea food floating restaurant. The restaurant is open for dinners only and serves a wide variety of sea-food specialties in tradtional Kerala style preparations or continental cuisine.

Poovar Island Resort also has a special sunken pool bar at the Swimming pool.

Hotel Facilities
At Poovar Island Resort there is an exclusive Ayurveda treatment and rejuvenation centre called the Ayurveda Village.

The Estuary is an air-conditioned conference hall capable of accommodating up to 80 people.

Other facilities include Watersports facilities, indoor games, cookery classes and barbecue facilities. There is also a special boutique shop showcasing indigenous arts and crafts houses typical Kerala artifacts, woodcarvings, handicrafts, Shawls, blankets and jewellery.

The resort also organises Sight seeing trips to Trivandrum and other tourist places on request. Visits to local villages, fishing places, boating on country boats or motor boats around the Poovar river, sunset cruises will make your trip unforgettable.

Location
Located 30 kms from Trivandrum airport and 38 kms from the railway station, the resort is accessible by a 10-minute boat ride on the river, through the backwaters.


COCONUT LAGOON RESORTS

City: Kumarakom

The hotel is situated at about 78 kms from Cochin, hidden among the palm trees on the eastern shore of Lake Vembanad. Coconut Lagoon Resort, an authentic experience of Kerala and its backwaters and is nicely set on an abandoned coconut plantation in the very heart of the fascinating backwaters. The hotel has been designed to provide visitors with an authentic insight into Kuttanad life. It offers three basic types of accommodation, Heritage Mansions, Heritage Bungalows and Private Pool Villas, all accommodations well furnished in wood with attached open roof bathrooms.

Hotel Facilities

Bar/lounge | Restaurant(s) in hotel | Swimming pool-outdoor | Health Club

Room Amenities

The Coconut Lagoon Resort offers its patrons choice from Heritage Bungalows and Deluxe pool villas.

Blackout drapes/curtains | Daily housekeeping | Desk | Non-smoking only |Separate sitting area | Window opens

Check In Time: 2:00 p.m.

DESTINATION INFORMATION

MUMBAI

India has always been fixated with Mumbai earlier known as Bombay. It is India's archetypal metropolis, imbibing the most extreme of paradoxes. The dream factory is glitzy, home to Bollywood, a thriving commerce industry, the moneyed swish set and some of the country's best educational institutions. Initially a group of seven islands that were merged together by land reclamation, Mumbai has a rich Colonial heritage. An amble through the fort area is testimony to the fact, housing beautiful Gothic-Elizabethan buildings and monuments.

The distinct collage of Mumbai's population is reflected in the shopping. It is an inherent urban city where everything is on offer for everyone; where second hand book bazaars coexist with high-end shopping malls, where flower markets jostle with flea markets, where the quaint antiques market is belligerently housed in an area called the Chor Bazaar (Thieves' Bazaar). You haven't seen Mumbai if you haven’t sampled the street food - varied and vivacious, scrumptious and spicy, it will leave you asking for more as your eyes water and ears burn. Wash it down then with a tall glass of juice available all over Mumbai at stalls.

Having listed out the essentials, what one has to understand is that Mumbai escapes definition. It is a city constantly moving, changing, evolving, and it can be known only by being experienced. Everything exaggerated, impossible or unimaginable you might have heard about Mumbai is in fact true, and more. Look beyond its glaring disparities and you will discover its seductive spirit that keeps the city alive, making it what it is. India is great.

Landmark of India, Mumbai, India gate
Landmark of India, Mumbai, India gate
Mumbai Gateway of India
Mumbai Gateway of India
Mumbai Haji Ali Dargah
Mumbai Haji Ali Dargah
Mumbai Heritage Wing of the Taj Mahal Hotel
Mumbai Heritage Wing of the Taj Mahal Hotel
Mumbai Skyline
Mumbai Skyline
PUNE

Pune might have been conceived by god on purpose. With the best of educational venues, young aspiring students, and Osho's neo-spiritualism, this city offers both kinds of education to anyone who is open-minded and willing enough - the one that teaches how to earn a living and the other that teaches how to live. But that's just one facet. Pune inspires extreme feelings in most people and there is no middle ground. Some find it too small-town, cramped, even rural. Most love it for its great weather, the leafy avenues and the laid back, exuberant ambience that comes from the mingling of students from all over India, even the world.

The best thing about Pune is that it's a friendly city. From small kiosks on corners serving cold coffees and ice creams eaten on the pavements to high end theme bars, Pune accommodates all. The prices are low here, but the comforts all metros-like. With the recent rise in IT companies, Pune is the city for the young. It's the quintessential big-city with a small-town feel.

Visit Pune for the Osho Ashram. Set in beautiful leafy surroundings at Koregaon Park, you will see people moving about here, dressed in maroon robes. Visit the famous German Bakery for delicious desserts or buy Osho slippers in all colours possible from the pavement stalls. On the outskirts, there are also the ruins of the Maratha Empire, sturdy forts littered in beautiful expanses of green. It's a city unlike any other. A must-see!

The Temple of Puning Chengde Pune
The Temple of Puning Chengde Pune
COCHIN

Cochin will make you come alive at the very first sight. It offers a wealth of history, art and culture to travellers. Shuffled in the hands of Maharajas, and colonial powers like the Portuguese, Dutch and British, the present Cochin is chequered with impressive colonial landmarks as well as contemporary ones.

The essence of Cochin lies in its pristine beauty and the beaches dotted with palm trees. Its culture, nature and hospitality will surly lure you in. Cochin offers you more than beautiful beaches with architectural gems like Bolghatty Palace and Fort Kochi. Uncovering Cochin through Onam, the banquet of Sadya, the Malayattoor Perunnal Festival, yoga, Ayurveda and Kerala spices at the Spice Market is a fascinating journey of discovery.

Cochin is the only place where Chinese fishing nets are used outside China. You'll see local fishermen braving the waves on coracles. More than the ways of the fishermen, the palaces and ruins left behind like the Hill Palace offer a glimpse of the splendour of Kochi. Visit the Dutch Palace and the nearby Jewish Synagogue which is famed for its Belgium chandeliers and Chinese tiles.

Deep in ancient history, the city will make you snap back to the present in a jiffy with dazzling shopping complexes and places, such as Veega Land, a water theme park, the largest in South India.

Cochin tempts you with a boat cruise in the backwaters against the idyllic backdrop of the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. You can hire a ferryboat and row to Vypin Island from Mattancherry town to catch sight of dolphins making merry.

Cochin's diverse charms, and the relatively quiet, clean and rather conservative atmosphere set it apart from other cities. Don't be surprised if you take back more than a few unforgettable moments.

Chinese Fishing Nets, Cochin
Chinese Fishing Nets, Cochin
A Kathakali before a performance in Cochin, India
A Kathakali before a performance in Cochin, India
St Mary's Church, Vallarpadom Islet, Cochin
St Mary's Church, Vallarpadom Islet, Cochin
The Vishnu Temple, Cochin
The Vishnu Temple, Cochin
Cycle-rickshaw on Jews Street in Cochin, India
Cycle-rickshaw on Jews Street in Cochin, India
KUMARAKOM

Kumarakom is not for the restless. It is for those who have time to spare for love, pleasure and languor. It is less about seeing and more about experiencing a way of life. The delicate yet perfect order in nature leaves you relaxed and in a state of bliss. Adding a zing to this idyllic locale are local delicacies, culture and architecture, houseboats and holistic Ayurvedic treatments.

Kumarakom that rose out of one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, Vembanad Lake, has come a long way from its humble beginning with a little help from the British missionary, Alfred George Baker, who cleared the area for rice cultivation, paddy fields and palms which soften the beauty of the landscape. A leisure holiday gem is what it is today. Let's find more about Kumarakom.

Tourists enjoying backwaters in Kumarakom
Tourists enjoying backwaters in Kumarakom
The Famous Baker's Bungalow in Kumarakom
The Famous Baker's Bungalow in Kumarakom
Backwaters of Kumarakom
Backwaters of Kumarakom
Wide shot of Vembanad Lake (Kumarakom)
Wide shot of Vembanad Lake (Kumarakom)
Kumarakom's Vembanad Lake
Kumarakom's Vembanad Lake
A boat in Kumarakom waters
A boat in Kumarakom waters
THEKKADY

It is said that Kerala's best kept secrets lie in the heart of Thekkady. A lush green oasis that sprawls across the Periyar Wildlife Reserve, this is where man and beast live as one. Snarling Tigers, screeching Crickets and naughty Langurs, the mysterious calm of the jungle is enough to tempt anyone who yearns to explore the wild. Thekkady is a naturalist's dream. With tea and spice plantations, it has lent much to Kerala's commerce as much as it has to its beauty. The incredible wildlife preserved in Periyar Tiger Wildlife Sanctuary today attracts naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. Declared a tiger reserve in 1978, the Periyar Wildlife Reserve is one of the few reserves where one can catch sight of the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger that is fast dwindling in population. Shed your inhibitions and take a day off to enjoy a bamboo raft ride across the Periyar river, explore the forest at night, never knowing what is to come, and succumb to the temptation of traditional Kerala Fish Curry and Rice in every restaurant you visit.

Ride through the jungle on elephant back or make your way through the village on a bullock cart. Wild and raw, the countryside embraces you with warmth that is almost forgotten. On a longer day, visit the Mangala Devi Temple, a short distance from Thekkady town, or to its bustling cousin Kumily, known for its spice plantations. Peermade is another plantation town that lures people on that extended weekend in Thekkady. Cascading waterfalls, misty hilltops and plunging valleys of emerald green, let loose your wild side.

Visit the Tribal Heritage museum inside the Mannan settlement and explore artefacts from a lost generation. Finally, give in to the mellow breeze and soothe your mind as you enjoy an Ayurvedic massage, and let time stop at its tracks. Virgin and raw, Thekkady is for those who yearn to leave the world behind and retrace a journey back in time.

Thekkady's Periyar Lake (Kerala, India)
Thekkady's Periyar Lake (Kerala, India)
A Kathakali performance in Thekkady
A Kathakali performance in Thekkady
Periyar lake at the dawn hour
Periyar lake at the dawn hour
Periyar River in early morning
Periyar River in early morning
Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala
Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala
KOVALAM AND POOVAR

Feisty and idyllic, Kovalam can easily pass off as Goa's alter ego. With its picture perfect tropical beaches, swaying palms, crystal clear waters and a stony coastline, it is one of the most sought-after beach towns in India. Yet, few know that this coastal gem has a few secrets of its own. Once a small fishing village, Kovalam first caught the attention of the Maharaja of Travancore. Impressed by the ardent beauty of the lush coast, the king often spent all leisure time here, inviting many European friends who travelled to visit him. Needless to say, word spread. Soon after, in the 1970s, the hippies arrived and brought with them the free-spiritedness that overturned the sleepy hamlet into a paradise coast.

Give into life's simpler pleasures here; explore the palm-fringed expanse of Lighthouse beach and spend the day lounging on warm sands. Build a sandcastle. Let the waves gently cool your feet. Start your day early with an hour of meditation on Eve's beach, before you indulge in fresh seafood delicacies at a nearby cafe. Later, take in the view atop the old Lighthouse at the end of Lighthouse beach. Marvel at the wonders of Kerala's rustic countryside. Succumb to your senses and gorge on fluffy Appams, Fish Curry and Tiger Prawns before you head to Vizhinzam to take a ride into the cerulean Arabian Sea on a make-shift catamaran. If you are in town around Onam, make sure you find yourself a spot around Vellayani Lake to cheer strong oarsmen as they compete in the annual boat race. When tired, retire to the plush comfort of the resort or rejuvenate your senses at an Ayurvedic spa as the masseur works through your tired muscles.

At night, watch a Kathakali performance or enjoy listening to hits from the 80s as you dine beneath the stars. Wander and roam into little shops on the promenade, and indulge in bargain shopping for keepsakes to take home. Kovalam, for every reason, stands apart from what anyone envisions Kerala to be. It is neither stoic nor resilient, and embraces one and all with warmth that is so undeniably alluring, it is hard to not give in.

Water creepers on Kovalam Beach, India
Water creepers on Kovalam Beach, India
A temple at Vizhinjam, India
A temple at Vizhinjam, India
Vizhinjam Mosque at Vizhinjam Harbour, Kovalam
Vizhinjam Mosque at Vizhinjam Harbour, Kovalam
Halcyon Castle (Kovalam Palace), Kovalam
Halcyon Castle (Kovalam Palace), Kovalam
Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
Kovalam Beach, Kovalam, India
Kovalam Beach, Kovalam, India
PHOTO GALLERY

Photo gallery
Landmark of India, Mumbai, India gate


48Photos

  • Landmark of India, Mumbai, India gate
  • Mumbai Gateway of India
  • Mumbai Haji Ali Dargah
  • Mumbai Heritage Wing of the Taj Mahal Hotel
  • Mumbai Skyline
  • The Temple of Puning Chengde Pune
  • Chinese Fishing Nets, Cochin
  • A Kathakali before a performance in Cochin, India
  • St Mary's Church, Vallarpadom Islet, Cochin
  • The Vishnu Temple, Cochin
  • Cycle-rickshaw on Jews Street in Cochin, India
  • Tourists enjoying backwaters in Kumarakom
  • The Famous Baker's Bungalow in Kumarakom
  • Backwaters of Kumarakom
  • Wide shot of Vembanad Lake (Kumarakom)
  • Kumarakom's Vembanad Lake
  • A boat in Kumarakom waters
  • Thekkady's Periyar Lake (Kerala, India)
  • A Kathakali performance in Thekkady
  • Periyar lake at the dawn hour
  • Periyar River in early morning
  • Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala
  • Water creepers on Kovalam Beach, India
  • A temple at Vizhinjam, India
  • Vizhinjam Mosque at Vizhinjam Harbour, Kovalam
  • Halcyon Castle (Kovalam Palace), Kovalam
  • Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
  • Kovalam Beach, Kovalam, India
  • Taj Malabar, Cochin - Cafe
  • Taj Malabar, Cochin - Exterior View
  • Taj Malabar, Cochin - Restaurant
  • Taj Malabar, Cochin - Room 1
  • Taj Malabar, Cochin - Room 2
  • Spice Village,Thekkady - Deluxe Room
  • Spice Village,Thekkady - Exterior View
  • Spice Village,Thekkady - Multi Cuisine Restaurant
  • Spice Village,Thekkady - Standard Room
  • Spice Village,Thekkady - Swimming Pool
  • Royal Orchid Central Hotel-Exterior View, Pune
  • Royal Orchid Central Hotel-Gymnasium, Pune
  • Royal Orchid Central Hotel-img3, Pune
  • Royal Orchid Central Hotel-Restaurant, Pune
  • Royal Orchid Central Hotel-Room 1, Pune
  • Coconut Lagoon Resort, Kumarakom - Garden
  • Coconut Lagoon Resort, Kumarakom - Mansion Bedroom
  • Coconut Lagoon Resort, Kumarakom - Resort Exterior
  • Coconut Lagoon Resort, Kumarakom - Restaurant
  • Coconut Lagoon Resort, Kumarakom - Swimming Pool

Price

$2,416*

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