South India Extension: The Malabar Coast

Day 1
Delhi / Cochin

Fly to Cochin, an intriguing old city set along the Arabian Sea and a favorite port of call in the spice trade for two thousand years, attracting a mix of Arab, Christian, and Jewish settlers and traders from the Middle East. In the afternoon, enjoy sightseeing and sunset on a harbor cruise.

Day 2
Cochin

Europeans arrived in Cochin in the early 15th century and were welcomed by the Rajas of Cochin who were keen to expand the spice trade. By 1800, Cochin was part of the British Madras Presidency. In your full day of guided explorations today, wander the old lanes of Fort Cochin and Mattancherry Palace, where you come upon such incongruous sites as traditional Dutch architecture, a Portuguese palace, a synagogue, and other oddities that reflect the European influence on Cochin.

Day 3
Kerala Backwaters Cruise

Head to the romantic port town of Alleppey (known now as Alappuzha), once one of the best known seaports of the Malabar Coast. On arrival, board a private houseboat that is your overnight accommodation as well as your vehicle for a relaxing cruise through the tranquil “backwaters” of Kerala, a beautiful region sandwiched between the sea and the hills of Cochin. A journey through this quiet region affords a look at the pageant of traditional riverside life as you delight in a selection of savory Keralan cuisine served by your on-board chef. The boat features comfortable double sleeping cabins and is operated by a crew of three. Overnight on board.

Day 4
Kerala Backwaters Cruise / Cochin Airport / Depart

After breakfast, disembark at Alleppey for the drive to Cochin Airport. Depart on flights to Chennai (Madras), Mumbai (Bombay), or Delhi.

Extension Costs

Valid through September 30, 2012
$1925 per person, double occupancy
Single supplement: $820
Solo traveler: $2725
Internal airfare: $657 (subject to change)

All costs subject to change