Christmas in Kerala

On arrival to Chennai you will be met and transferred to your hotel. You have the rest of the day at leisure before meeting your fellow travellers for dinner.

Your festive adventure in Southern India begins! Start at the iconic Marina Beach, where you can stand with the sand between your toes, the sun on your face and the Christmas spirit in your soul! Next, delve into the historical significance of Fort St. George, a colonial-era fortress that houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and the St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India. Continue your journey to the Kapaleeswarar Temple, a sacred Dravidian-style Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where the intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance create a captivating experience.

After breakfast you will depart for Pondicherry, stopping 1h50 minutes enroute at the Mahabalipuram rock carvings. These ancient rock-cut sculptures, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase intricately carved depictions of Hindu mythology and ancient Indian art. Continue your journey to Pondicherry, where you will spend the night.

Explore Pondicherry's spiritual essence at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, then uncover the region's history at the Pondicherry Museum. Take in the unique charm of the French quarter with a delightful rickshaw ride, followed by free time to wander through its colorful streets, revealing a perfect blend of French and Indian influences.

Today you will travel south, driving approximately 5 hours to Velankanni. Lunch will be In Chidambaram. On arrival you will check in at your hotel before a visit to the revered Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health. Also known as Vailankanni Church, this is a major pilgrimage site, where its significance lies in the belief that it is a place of miraculous healing. Devotees from various faiths visit to seek blessings and offer prayers to the Virgin Mary.

Set off after breakfast on a 5hour drive to Madurai, detouring through Chettinad. Explore the rich cultural heritage of this region by visiting a tile-making factory, witnessing the intricate process of tile production. Continue by visiting a traditional house, a testament to the architectural and cultural legacy of the region, before exploring the local market. Resume your drive to Madurai, where you'll check in at the hotel upon arrival.

Explore the cultural treasures of this city with a visit to the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. Next, delve into the regal history of Madurai by visiting the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace. As the day unfolds, experience the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple, joining the devotees in the evening ritual, where lamps are lit, prayers are offered, and the divine energy of the temple is palpable.

Embark on a scenic drive where along the way you will visit a local spice village and market. Continue to Periyar and, in the evening, witness the ancient and dynamic Kalaripayattu martial arts show. This traditional martial art form, originating in Kerala, is characterized by its fluid movements, precise techniques, and a deep connection to the region's cultural heritage. Marvel at the skilled performers as they showcase this ancient art form, demonstrating a captivating blend of strength, agility, and discipline.

Begin your day with a serene morning boat ride on Lake Periyar, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Periyar National Park. As you navigate the tranquil waters, be on the lookout for diverse wildlife that frequents the lake, including elephants, deer, and various bird species. Following the boat ride, you will continue to Munnar, taking approximately 4 - 4.5 hours. Munnar is renowned for its verdant landscapes, tea estates, and cool climate, making it a popular hill station in South India.

Embark on a morning visit to Eravikulam National Park, as you enjoy a light trek through Munnar, taking in the fresh mountain air and the scenic beauty of the park. Following this delve into the world of tea with a visit to a local tea plantation in Munnar. Gain insights into the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to processing and packaging. Learn about the nuances of tea cultivation and appreciate the picturesque surroundings of the tea estates. Your day will conclude with a visit to the Tata Tea Museum, where you can explore the history of tea cultivation in the region.

Today, Christmas Eve, you head 5 hours to Kochi, a city known for its rich history and cultural diversity. To get you into the Christmas spirit this evening, indulge in a festive dinner at the hotel, savouring the flavors of Kerala's culinary delights as you celebrate the season with your travel companions. Later, immerse yourself in the vibrant and unique Christmas traditions of Kerala by attending a traditional midnight mass at an Oriental Orthodox Church. The midnight mass in Kerala is a special occasion marked by cultural richness, religious fervor, and a sense of togetherness.

Merry Christmas! Today promises to be a wonderful experience as you immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, for a day filled with festive and cultural experiences in the lovely sunshine. Dress up in traditional Keralan attire and attend the Christmas Mass at St. Francis Church before a city tour of Kochi, visiting the Santa Cruz Basilica, a beautiful church with Portuguese origins. Explore the Jewish Synagogue, Chinese fishing nets along the waterfront and take a stroll through nearby markets. For a particular fun Christmas evening, later you will proceed to the Kathakali Dance auditorium for an enriching cultural experience, where you will spend approximately 45 minutes witnessing the intricate preparations before enjoying a captivating Kathakali dance performance, where the artists showcase the artistry and storytelling through elaborate costumes, facial expressions, and rhythmic movements.

For a Boxing Day with a difference, transfer 1h30 minutes to the Alleppey Jetty Point to board a traditional houseboat. Cruise through the picturesque canals of the backwaters of Kerala. Along the way, make stops to explore small villages, visit charming churches, and discover ancient temples, absorbing the rich cultural tapestry of the region. As the houseboat moors in the evening, partake in a special evening filled with the enchanting rhythms of Folk Music and Dances.

After breakfast, you will disembark from your houseboat and transfer one and half hours back to Kochi, where you will enjoy lunch. Later spend time visiting local markets.

Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to New Zealand.