Ayurveda & Backwaters Wellness Journey

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on a guided heritage tour of Cochin. Begin with a visit to the historic St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, followed by the colorful Jewish Synagogue in the heart of Jew Town, dating back to 1568. Explore the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), renowned for its detailed murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Walk through spice markets and antique shops, absorbing the scent of cinnamon and cloves in the air. In the evening, witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance a classical Keralan art form known for elaborate costumes, expressive gestures, and mythological themes. You may also visit the backstage area to see the fascinating makeup process.

Today, travel through the lush and rolling landscapes of Kerala’s countryside as you journey from the coast to the hills of Thekkady. En route, pass through rubber plantations, spice estates, and tea-covered slopes. Stop for a traditional Keralan lunch at a heritage plantation bungalow, offering an authentic taste of the region’s cuisine amidst a scenic setting. Upon arrival in Thekkady, check in to Spice Village, an eco-conscious retreat designed like a tribal village, set in the heart of the Western Ghats. In the evening, explore a local spice plantation on foot, where a naturalist will guide you through the cultivation and medicinal properties of cardamom, pepper, cloves, nutmeg, and more.

Rise early for a unique guided jungle walk through the Periyar Tiger Reserve, led by tribal guides who share their intimate knowledge of the forest. The walk offers a chance to see animal tracks, exotic birds, and perhaps even deer or elephants in their natural habitat. Return to the resort for breakfast and some relaxation time. In the afternoon, head to Lake Periyar for a peaceful boat safari, where you may spot wildlife such as herds of elephants at the water’s edge, sambar deer grazing, and numerous bird species soaring overhead. End the day with an optional Ayurvedic massage or relaxation at the eco-lodge amidst the calm forest ambiance.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the hills of Thekkady and descend through winding roads flanked by spice gardens and rubber plantations toward the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey. Upon arrival, board your private traditional Kettuvallam houseboat, your floating home for the night. As the houseboat gently cruises along palm-lined canals and shimmering waterways of Vembanad Lake, soak in the picturesque scenes of village life—fishermen casting nets, children waving from the banks, and lush paddy fields stretching into the horizon. Enjoy freshly prepared Keralan meals served onboard, made using local produce and spices. The evening brings a special serenity as the boat anchors for the night amidst peaceful backwater surroundings.

Wake up to the quiet beauty of the backwaters and enjoy a traditional breakfast onboard. After disembarking, drive back to Cochin Airport for your domestic flight to Goa (approximately 1.5 hours by road). On arrival in Goa, the tropical rhythm slows even further. You will be transferred to your beachfront or heritage-style hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure relax on golden beaches, wander through local markets, or take in the colonial charm of Goa’s old churches and Portuguese villas.

This morning, begin your scenic coastal drive south from Goa to Gokarna, a peaceful temple town and emerging wellness destination in Karnataka. The journey takes you along dramatic sea views, forested roads, and quiet villages. Upon arrival, check into your eco-conscious wellness retreat near Om Beach. The afternoon is yours to relax—perhaps take a short walk down to the beach, explore nearby temples, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings as you prepare for the days of rejuvenation ahead.

Over the next five days, immerse yourself in a deeply transformative wellness program at SwaSwara, an award-winning retreat nestled on the cliffs above Om Beach. Begin each day with sunrise yoga sessions in open-air pavilions, followed by personalized Ayurvedic treatments recommended by experienced Ayurvedic doctors based on your body constitution (dosha). Enjoy guided meditation, nature walks, and creative art therapy sessions designed to reconnect mind, body, and spirit. Savor organic, sattvic meals prepared with seasonal produce sourced from the retreat’s own gardens. Each evening offers silence and rest as you detox from digital distractions and embrace a slower rhythm of life amidst the sounds of nature and the ocean.

After a final morning of reflection, healthy breakfast, or perhaps one last walk by the sea, check out from your retreat. Your driver will escort you to Goa International Airport, approximately 135 km away, for your onward flight. Depart with a calm body, refreshed mind, and renewed spirit having experienced the best of Kerala’s backwaters, cultural heritage, and the healing traditions of Ayurveda on India’s peaceful southwest coast.