Day 1Upon arriving at Cochin International Airport, transfer to Malabar House, a refurbished colonial mansion in the heart of Fort Cochin about 90 minutes away. Experience the fascinating sites and sounds of Fort Cochin. Stroll down to the Vasco da Gama square, a narrow beach promenade where huge Chinese fishing nets are tended by fisherman. These large contraptions are built out of teak wood and bamboo poles, almost in the shape of a preying-mantis, and date back to the 14th century. Traditional Kathakali and Bharathanatyam dance performances are held at the Greenix Village down Kalvathy Road. Go early and catch the intriguing ritual of the Kathakali dancers putting on their make-up before their performance. Visit the Mattancherry Palace, once occupied by the local Verma Kings and now a museum that tells of their lifestyle. Explore Jewish Town with its narrow cobbled stone walkways where wayside shops overflow with antiques and silk shawls; the 16th century synagogue with intricate chandeliers and porcelain tiled floors; the Santa Cruz Basilica; the Dutch Palace and the St Francis Church.

Day 2 & 3Journey south along the backwaters on a Kettuvalam until you reach Kumarakom, an island on the magnificent Lake Vembanad. Spend two nights on your houseboat en route. The Backwaters of Kerala consisting of lagoons, lakes, canals and a network of 41 rivers leading to the Arabian Sea. Over 900kms of this massive water body can be explored by boat. Views change constantly as you move along. Lush green paddy fields and coconut groves, tranquil waters momentarily disturbed by cormorants and brahmini kites diving down in search of their catch, fisherman tending to their Chinese nets, and villages passing by in canoes filled with coir and vegetables. Stop enroute and explore rural villages, Hindu kovils and churches.

Day 4, 5 & 6Once you arrive in Kumarakom, check into Coconut Lagoon, one of Red Dot’s favourite properties in Kerala, for a relaxing three-night stay. This backwater resort captures the true essence of Kerala and can only be accessed by boat. Pearl Spot fish cooked in a banana leaf, sounds of the sitar resonating from afar, the glow of oil lamps, the healing touch of an Ayurveda therapist, and the sight of a fisherman in his Kettuvallam as he meanders along the backwaters are all a treat for your senses. Coconut Lagoon is a treasure trove for naturalists. Explore the Vembanand Lake and its profusion of fish and water birds, extensive resort gardens scattered with fruit and medicinal trees, the butterfly garden, and the adjoining Kavanar bird Sanctuary. Village expeditions past paddy fields, waterways and village homes are organised by the resort, with the assistance of an in-house naturalist.

Day 7Head back to Cochin, this time by road, to catch your flight to Sri Lanka. Upon arriving in Colombo, we will meet you at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer you to the Park Street Hotel – an hour’s drive from the airport. Situated in the heart of the capital city of Colombo, Park Street Hotel is a haven of luxury and relaxation and a perfect choice for those wanting a homely atmosphere within the city. Colombo’s main attractions include the National Museum, Buddhist temples and Hindu kovils. Many enjoy shopping in Colombo, which has a reputation for excellent value when it comes to gems, clothes, home ware, porcelain and fabrics. Shops worth visiting include Paradise Road, Barefoot and ODEL, all located nearby the hotel.

Day 8 – 12Journey along Sri Lanka’s beautiful southern coastline to your next destination - Weligama. Enroute, we recommend visiting the historic 17th century Dutch Fort in Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a melting pot of cultural influences. Several hours can be spent wandering along narrow streets, well preserved ramparts overlooking the cricket stadium, lighthouse staring in to the Indian Ocean, and browsing through art galleries and shops. There are several newly renovated interesting boutique hotels with excellent cafes and restaurants within the Fort, where you can stop for a meal. Once you reach Weligama, check into Weligama Bay Resort, a luxurious boutique hotel facing one of the most iconic bays in Sri Lanka. This spectacular southern cove where the sea is often calm enough for swimming, snorkelling and surfing at any time of year is where you will relax for the next five days. The south of Sri Lanka beyond Dondra is also considered one of the best locations in the world for spotting Blue Whales, Sperm Whales and Spinner Dolphins. Mirissa Water Sports as well as the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation based in the Mirissa Harbour nearby offers Whale and Dolphin watching excursions during the season from December to April. Mirissa Water Sports also offers other leisure activities including game fishing, coastal cruises, snorkelling, sea kayaking, river and mangrove trips. Nature enthusiasts might like to explore the southern wilderness including Yala National Park and the Bundala bird sanctuary.

Day 13Travel to the north West Coast for your final night in Sri Lanka. We recommend the Wallawwa in Kotugoda, a new boutique hotel housed in a refurbished colonial bungalow situated just minutes from the international airport. Relax and unwind before your long journey back home.