KERALA'S BREATHTAKING vista is high in the backdrop of the western ghats of tea plantations, whilst down on the coast nestle palm-fringed beaches. Visit the highlights of Kerala travelling first to the fascinating port city of Kochi (‘the Venice of the East’), then into the hills and spice growing areas to search for elephant in Periyar National Park. Journeying through the backwaters, there is plenty of time to unwind and explore the myriad network of canals and waterways that cover much of the coastal plains of the state. Finally, enjoy the unique experience of a night on a converted riceboat and cruise peacefully, often unnoticed, around the lake watching village life on the riverbanks going on all around.