Project Description

KATHAKALI

KATHAKALI

DURATION

8 Days

COVER

4 Cities

BOOK
temples

COCHIN (KOCHI)
Kerala is a beautiful state in Southern India is written in God’s own handwriting. Later in the afternoon, we will start the exploratory tour starting from Fort Kochi with a walk through the historical past and riches of the state. St. Francis which is the first European church in India and Vasco Da Gama was buried here initially; see the hypnotic and magnanimous Chinese Fishing Nets; just past the church goes the road to the Dutch Cemetery gate engraved with the year 1724 on it. It also happens to be the oldest cemetery in India forming a silhouette against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea by the setting sun. End your evening with a cultural dose of Kerala – learn Kathakali dance and expressions from a veteran performer at Kerala Kathakali Centre.

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COCHIN (KOCHI)-CHERUTHURUTHY
Today, we will drive to Cheruthuruthy also known as Vallathol Nagar, known for its landmark – the Palace of Kochi Maharaja. Also, the iconic bridge that connects Kochi and Cheruthuruthy is a reminder of the erstwhile Kingdom of Cochin, believed to be around 110 years old. Take the day off and immerse yourself in the beauty that surrounds on the banks of Nila River (Bharathapuzha).

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CHERUTHURUTHY
Immerse yourself in the age old traditional culture of art in Kerala at Kerala Kalamandalam which was founded in 1930 by the renowned poet Padmabhooshan Vallathol Narayana Menon. It is foundation that laid the groundwork to institutionalise the Kerala art forms. You will interact the masters that provide training training in performing art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, Thullal and Nangiarkoothu. We will visit the only dance theatre built outside the temple – Koothambalam at Kalamandalam. Then we have the World’s biggest elephant sanctuary here at Punnathoor Fort which is a unique 400 year old Kerala experience. Later we will visit the first temple created by Lord Parshuram, the largest temple in Kerala dedicated to Lord Shiva.

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CHERUTHURUTHY-VAGAMON
Your day will be spent travelling from Cheruthuruthy to Vagamon covering a distance of approximately 445 kms. Enjoy the scenic view, sit back and relax. You will be riding slow to your destination in an air-conditioned car. Keep your worries aside. There is no rush.

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VAGAMON
Welcome to Vagamon. This is a small hill station in Kerala that has yet to be explored by the travellers. Known for its abundant greenery – home to pine forests, tea estates, waterfalls, river streams, rose gardens, and spice plantations, Vagamon is very popular amongst the thrill seekers. Our first task would be to trek to Kurisumala, a 30 minute trek that might be challenging for some but a real spot for the breathtaking views of Vagamon and Kochi and for some, it is a Christian Pilgrimage site. Then we visit Murugan Hill known for its temple of Murugan Swami, son of Lord Shiva that is built with a single-rock construction. End your day in the relaxing grasslands, meadows and lush pine forests of Thangal Hill.

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VAGAMON-ALLEPPEY
Morning, we will start driving to Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East. Alleppey is known for its huge network of freshwater rivers, meandering lakes, and lagoons. Alleppey Beach is home to a 140 year old lighthouse and hosts the grand event of Nehru Trophy Boat Race every year that attracts travellers from all over the world. A visit to this iconic beach is a must-have experience. We have kept part of the day for you to explore the Mullakkal Market, which is the the main market of the city and a unique Alappuzha experience. You can find a variety of things, particularly known for its gold and silver offerings. It is a great experience when you need to so souvenir shopping.

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ALLEPPEY-COCHIN (KOCHI)
Today we will be travelling to meet India’s First All Women’s Kathakali Group. All along Kathakali, has always been a male dominated art form and this age old tradition has been broken by this group that also won President of India’s medal of honour in the year 2017. On this trip, you will meet some of the most inspiring women artists and their journey explaining the intricacies of this fascinating art form. You will have stories, language, costumes, music, training, mythology, and much more to talk about.

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COCHIN (KOCHI)

The dance can reveal everything mysterious that is hidden in music, and it has the additional merit of being human and palpable.” Dance is the consciousness of the soul, and you are leaving with Kerala’s history and culture imprinted on you. Share your memorable experiences with your friends and families too.