• Kathakali dance performance in Cochin
• Backwaters of Kumarakom
• Elephants at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Beaches of Kovalam

Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is often considered the commercial and entertainment capital of India. The city also houses India’s Hindi film and television industry, affectionately termed as Bollywood. Mumbai is the most populated city in India and attracts visitors and residents from all over the world. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 1: Mumbai—Cochin
After breakfast, fly to Cochin. Cochin, also known as Kochi, is one of the principal seaports of India and a growing center of international trade and information technology. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Day at leisure to explore the city. In the evening, experience a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance of Kerala. Overnight in Cochin.

Day 2: Cochin
After breakfast, proceed for a city tour of Cochin: the Dutch Palace, built in 1555; the Jewish Synagogue, housing scrolls of the Old Testament and copper plates inscribed in Hebrew script; St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was buried in 1524; the Chinese fishing nets at the entrance of Cochin Harbor and Willingdon Island, a manmade island from materials dredged while deepening Cochin port. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance. Overnight in Cochin.

Day 3: Cochin—Thekkady
Drive from Cochin to Thekkady (5 hours). Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best refuges in India for witnessing and photographing elephants at close range. It is also home to tigers, sambars, and macaques. Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 4: Thekkady
In the morning, take a boat ride on Lake Periyar to view the wildlife. Later, visit a tea plantation, factory and local market. Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 5: Thekkady—Kumarakom
After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom (3.5 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Kumarakom is a charming village on the Eastern bank of Vembanadu Lake surrounded by paddy fields. The lake's majestic canals, streams and distributaries weave an intricate and enchanting web. Later proceed for a backwater cruise by motor boat in and around Kumarakom. Overnight in Kumarakom.

Day 6: Kumarakom—Kovalam
After breakfast, drive to Kovalam (4 hours). Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Kovalam is a charming fishing village and Kerala's most spectacular beach resort. The town boasts numerous resorts and spas that focus on Ayurvedic body treatments and spiritual fitness. Overnight in Kovalam.

Day 7: Kovalam
In the morning drive to Trivandrum (10km), the capital of Kerala. Also called Thiruvananthapuram, Trivandrum was notably called the “Evergreen City of India” by Mahatma Gandhi. Take a morning tour of the city. In the afternoon, return to Kovalam to relax on the beach or enjoy an Ayurvedic body treatment. Overnight in Kovalam.

Day 8: Departure
Morning at leisure for relaxation or last minute shopping in Kovalam. In the afternoon, transfer to Trivandrum airport for your flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, board your return flight to the U.S. Bon Voyage!