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KERALA

Cochin, Fort Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey and Marari

RAJASTHAN

VARANASI

GUJARAT

STREETS OF INDIA

HOLI

KERALA

Kerala is possibly one of the most sought-after destinations in Asia.

With the Arabian Sea to the west, the Western Ghats (towering 1600 – 9000 feet) to the east, and a network of 44 rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought-after destinations in Asia. Kerala enjoys an equable climate, along with a shoreline with serene beaches and tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters. It has lush hill stations, exotic wildlife, waterfalls, sprawling tea plantations and paddy fields. And when you add Ayurvedic health spas, enchanting art forms, magical festivals, historic and cultural monuments, and exotic cuisine… Kerala delivers a unique experience that’s truly beyond your imagination.

Kerala and the south of India are more verdant and tropical than the north. The people tend to be more friendly and move at a more relaxed pace. Yet Kerala is anything by relaxed when you think about just how exotic it is. Kerala conjures up images of Aladdin and his magic lantern. On this photographic journey, you will experience it all. Hard to believe, but trust us. Kerala will not disappoint you.

The moment you start to think you’re right on the precipice of unraveling one of India’s deep mysteries, she has an uncanny way of reminding you that it would take more than just a few lifetimes to do so. Indeed, demystifying India is a perpetual work-in-progress. And that is precisely what makes the country so deeply addictive. The constant exploration. The playful unpredictability. And knowing that, just when it’s least expected, you can find yourself up close and personal with moments that have the power to alter the way you view the world and your place in it.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable about how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. We cannot think of a better place to express your creativity than in Kerala, India.

Kerala and the south of India are more verdant and tropical than the north. The people tend to be more friendly and move at a more relaxed pace. Yet Kerala is anything by relaxed when you think about just how exotic it is. Kerala conjures up images of Aladdin and his magic lantern. On this photographic journey, you will experience it all. Hard to believe, but trust us. Kerala will not disappoint you.

The moment you start to think you’re right on the precipice of unraveling one of India’s deep mysteries, she has an uncanny way of reminding you that it would take more than just a few lifetimes to do so. Indeed, demystifying India is a perpetual work-in-progress. And that is precisely what makes the country so deeply addictive. The constant exploration. The playful unpredictability. And knowing that, just when it’s least expected, you can find yourself up close and personal with moments that have the power to alter the way you view the world and your place in it.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable about how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. We cannot think of a better place to express your creativity than in Kerala, India.

Group Size

4-8 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
  • Moderate schedule
  • Travel by car or minibus, boat
  • Minimal elevation changes and lots of walking
  • (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

February – Temps 88/77 F  31/25 C  Sunrise 6:45 | Sunset 6:33 (18:33)

Includes

  • Travel, landscape, architecture, seascape, and people photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (4-8 guests)
  • Premium hotels
  • Premium houseboat
  • Breakfasts and 2 meals
  • Airport transfers
  • Modern AC mini-bus
  • Local transportation
  • Entry fees

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airport: Cochin International Airport, Kochi, India (COK)
Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.

Accommodations

Fort Kochi – Brunton Boatyard Hotel, Fragrant Nature or similar
Munnar – Tall Trees, Spice Tree Munnar or similar
Allepey – Premium Lakes & Lagoons Houseboat
Marari – Marari Beach Resort or similar

Helpful Links

> Indian Women and their Love Affair with the Saree – by Renu Choudhary
> 6 Amazing India Photo Adventures – by Michael Chinnici

Kerala Prices & Dates

Kerala & Theyyam Festival Prices & Dates

Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Lorenz Berna

February 26 – March 9/14, 2025
February 25 – March 8/13, 2026

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

ITINERARY

INDIA’S KERALA 12 DAYS

Day 1 | Cochin - Fort Kochi - Chinese Fishing Nets

Whether you arrive on the day of or the day before, our airport representative will welcome you at the airport in Kochi and transfer you to our hotel. After settling in we meet for some informal discussions about what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles, and techniques. In the afternoon our leader will present PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles to Great Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique.

In the evening we will visit the famous Chinese fishing nets of Kochi, brought to the port by the Chinese explorer Zheng He 900 years ago. They’re fascinating old bits of fishing technology — bamboo, teak, stones, ropes, and nets — and are fabulous to photograph at sunset and into twilight. The darker it gets, the more attractive the nets become. Later, the fishermen will mount lamps on their nets to attract the fish, posing a fresh opportunity for us.

Afterward, we enjoy an amazing “Welcome Dinner” where we sample various dishes that Kerala is renowned for. (D)

Day 2 | Fort Kochi - Kalaripayattu - Sunset Boat Cruise

After a delightful breakfast, we visit the Jewish quarter and synagogue, the magnificent Santa Cruz Basilica, as well as some street photography around the lanes and alleys of Fort Kochi. After lunch we get to witness Kalaripayattu, the Dravidian martial art, that’s as Kerala in origin as the six billion coconuts the locals harvest each year. Like most martial arts, Kalaripayattu is a rigorous system of movements, postures, and techniques and is inextricably associated with religious practice and a master-pupil teaching model. Its top practitioners are formidably fast, supple, strong and graceful — and they are wonderful objects of photographic worship as well.

While Kalari is blisteringly fast, the training sessions are usually slow-paced, full of photogenic ritual and elaborate choreography. We’ll see Kalaripayattu every which way: as a formal performance (with real weapons!), as individual demonstrations by students of their mastery of the art, and with the supporting commentary of the Kalari master to ensure that we connect and understand as well as capture stunning images. There’s so much here for every kind of photographer: introspective slice-of-life closeups, mid-air freezes, fiery action sequences, soft scenes of worship and blessing… 100% pure shooting heaven. In the evening we will take a sunset boat cruise from our hotel. (B)

Day 3 | Fort Kochi - Kathakali - Kochi Beach

Today we set out for some early morning low light photography throughout the streets of Fort Kochi as the markets open up and the locals fill the streets. We’ll return to our hotel for breakfast. After reviewing our favorite photos from the first two days, we set out to photograph the dance forms of Kerala. These classical dance styles offer everything photographers could ask for: rich colors, dramatic makeup, vivid and elaborate costumes. Rather than an off-the-shelf tourist shoot, we’ve planned a private performance and venue where we’ll be able to get access to the artists.

Kathakali is a dance form which evolved during the 17th century. It has a dance song, literature and make up art at its best. It is traditional and depicts stories from Hindu mythology. It is composed of overnight performance. Elaborate headgear, facial decorations, and dressing mark the dance form. In the evening we will walk the beach at sunset before enjoying a wonderful dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants. (B)

Day 4 | Cochin - Munnar - Pothamedu

After breakfast, we check out and head for the hills. It’s a four-hour drive to Munnar, and you’re going to love it! Winding roads run through the dense forest and scenic hills; you’ll get your first glimpses of the ribbed emerald-green carpets of the tea-planted slopes. Munnar is an important high-point on our Kerala photography adventure. It’s storybook pretty, it’s authentic Kerala. We’ll be making frequent stops along the way to grab some great photos. We will arrive in Munnar for a late lunch.

The afternoon is free to settle into our hotel. Early evening we head to Pothamedu to photograph the whole transition from day to dusk, with stunning tea-estate scenery at our feet. (B)

Day 5 | Munnar - Kolukkumalai - Tea Plantations

This morning is a high point of our Western Ghats exploration. It’s the loftiest tea-growing plantation in the world, perched at 2,400 meters (7,875 feet) with its green slopes overlooking some truly remarkable Kerala scenery. The photographic treasure-hunt today is about tea-garden landscapes, sometimes with the clouds high above, sometimes with clouds so low that we literally drive through them. We’ll capture the bright colors of the estate workers’ clothes and machinery against the verdant green, and at the tea factory itself, we’ll walk into an engineering time-warp where old, battered machines process the tea leaves into top-quality tea.

At Kolukkumalai, you’re right at the historic heart of Kerala tea. Here on this estate in the 1930s, the British constructed a small processing facility to turn the freshly picked tea leaves into the classic cuppa — and that same factory is here today, with the very same Gainsborough-built machines whirring and clanking as they do the withering, rolling, sieving, fermenting, drying, extracting and grading stages of making tea. Anywhere else, these machines would be museum-pieces — but here they seem to be perfectly suited to the time-honored traditions of tea-making.

After a long day photographing the most amazing tea-plantation panoramas, and the locals working the tea mills, we head back to our hotel for dinner. (B)

Day 6 | Munnar - Top Station

Today, we continue our exploration of Kerala’s tea country and get to photograph much more than Munnar’s famous tea gardens. We begin with a drive to the Top Station, which used to be a ropeway station back in the early 1900s. For over a century, this was the highest transshipment point for tea, connecting Munnar with the nearby hills of Tamil Nadu. We’ll take a truly breathtaking drive past Maduppety Dam, Echo Point and several villages. When we arrive at the Top Station, we’ll be treated to the best panoramic views of the neighboring state and valleys. 

En route we’ll experience terrace farming, rustic villages and beautiful landscapes. We get to visit Vattavad, which is popular for its wide variety of crops including oranges, strawberries, plums, gooseberries, peaches, passion fruits, which cannot be seen anywhere else in Kerala. The people here are very welcoming and love to showoff their produce. This is one of those places that begs for both landscapes and portraits alike. By late afternoon we begin our drive back to our hotel for dinner. (B, L)

Day 7 | Munnar - Tribal Visit

Nestled amidst these hills, are the settlements of those who first paved routes to Munnar. They are the Muthuvans, who got their name from carrying their children and belongings on their backs (‘muthuku’ in tamil), while migrating to these hills from Tamil Nadu. Today, we’ll drive though beautiful valleys to several of their settlements where we will get to interact with them. We’ll experience the Muthuvan lifestyle, unique social norms, family life and a culture that has been preserved for ages, unaffected by modern developments. Walking through clusters of homes, we will see women clad in ethnic saris. We will travel by local jeep so we can navigate the off-road trails. 

The settlements we will explore are set into the forest, as their rituals and resources are closely connected with nature. Honey, natural spices and few medicinal flowers are the produce they harvest and sell in the local market. These early settlers of Munnar play an important role in protecting and preserving the land by taking part in eco-development programs. After a wonderful day of photography and adventure, we return to village of Munnar. 

Before we end our day, we will visit another location from the past, but quite a contrast to our morning adventure. We’ll enjoy a special high tea session at one of the old British Clubs, the High Range Club, where we will be taken back to the time to the British Raj, over a cup of tea. (B, L)

Day 8 | Munnar - Alleppey (Houseboat)

After breakfast depart the tea country and drive to Allepey. Upon arrival we will check-in to our beautifully appointed luxury houseboat. We’ll set sail and begin cruising the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. 

Referred to as the Venice of the East, Allepey has always enjoyed an important place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today, it is famous for its longboat races, backwater holidays, beaches, marine products, coir industry and houseboats. These houseboats are in fact reworked versions of Kettuvallams of olden times. The original Kettuvallams or rice barges were used to carry tons of rice and spices. The Kettuvallam or ‘boat with knots’ was so called because the entire boat was held together with only coir knots. Today, houseboats can come appointed with all the creature comforts of a nice hotel, including furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, a kitchen and even balconies. One of the best experiences is enjoying uninterrupted views of Kerala’s backwater life. 

As our day comes to a close, we’ll be photographing the sunset while our crew is preparing a wonderful dinner. It really is a magical experience. Dinner will include local fish, prawns, and plenty of organic vegetables. After dinner and desert, we’ll kick back, relax and tell stories. (B, L, D)

Day 9 | Alleppey (Houseboat)

After a wonderful breakfast aboard our private houseboat, we’ll begin our cruise throughout the backwaters. These backwaters consist of a network of 932 miles (1500 km) of canals both manmade and natural, 38 rivers and 5 big lakes extending from one end of Kerala to the other. Vembanad is the largest of the lakes, covering an area of 785 sq mi (2033 sq km).  

We’ll visit villages along the way, including Vizhinjam village, a busy port flooded with fishing boats. We’ll photograph the many fishermen venturing into the distant sea. The village which is rustic and earthy is very different from Kovalam in many aspects. You’ll witness children going to school by boat, families shopping, cutting coconuts from trees, making repairs to their homes. No one has a car, only simple canoes and boats. This remote life is peaceful and fascinating. 

We’ll enjoy lunch and dinner, prepared by our chef and crew, followed by another glorious sunset. (B, L, D)

Day 10 | Alleppey - Marari

After a lovely breakfast on our houseboat, we will disembark and proceed to Mararikulam, a fishing village on the coast of the Arabian Sea. An hour’s drive from Alleppey, takes us to this small yet fascinating beach destination in Kerala. Here, we’ll stay at a beautiful beach resort, which is perfect way to end our adventure with photography and leisure time. 

After check-in, we prepare for a sunset shoot on the beach, where we get to see locals and fishing boats alike. ‘Marari’ beach is known for its calm and serene ambience, with swaying palm trees, clean water and a local charm. We’ll find a few stalls selling locals pickles, savories, and toys for children. Our shoot will be followed by dinner. (B)

Day 11 | Marari

We are up for an early morning shoot at a nearby fishing harbor, where the local fishermen bring their daily catch for auction. As interesting as it sounds, the whole act of presenting the day’s catch to the buyers, and the craziness of an auction, provides us with some great street photography opportunities. A fishermen’s fascinating and authentic life will be on display for you to capture. Afterwards, we return to our hotel for breakfast, after which we can spend time reviewing and discussing photos. We’ll take a break from the afternoon heat to enjoy our resort. 

In the evening, we’ll venture to the local village where we will visit the homes and families of these fishermen. In the evening we celebrate our amazing 12 days together with a “Farewell Dinner” fit for a king. (B) (D)

Day 12 | Marari - Cochin

After our morning breakfast, we depart Marari for Cochin International Airport for your flight.

Theyyam Festival Add-on (March): If you are continuing on to our Theyyam Add-on, we will be escorting you on a flight to Kannur.

 

Add our 6-Day “Kerala Thayyam Festival” in March, for 16 days of culture and photography.

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

India Kerala Photoworkshopadventures V3

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

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Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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