Kerala Painting Holiday with Anna Martin

Price

£2300/PP

Date

30 Nov 2026

Duration

14 Days

Available Seats

10/12

Deposit

£ 250

Overview

Join Anna Martin on a painting holiday in India. Two weeks of touring and tuition in this lovely country, visiting four carefully selected places that each provide a unique perspective on local culture and daily life in Southern India.

Highlights

COST PER PERSON

What’s Included

Not Included

TUTOR : Anna Martin

A half Spanish, half Irish and was born and raised in London where she initiated her art career at the Chelsea School of Art. Then transferred to Parsons School of Design in New York, where Anna graduated with a BA in Communication Design. She went to work in Madrid in publishing and advertising for a few years before returning to London continuing work as a freelance designer in mainstream publishing companies. After a few years Anna ventured into the field of personal development and performance coaching acquiring a Master NLP certificate and International Coaching Certificate as well as others. She also attended and assisted many workshops from leading trainers. An integral part of my career has been as a facilitator of small group workshops in the fields of communications skills, health and well-being and creativity. Hence her passion for art was awoken and since over a decade She been a tutor and a creative catalyst for aspiring artists on painting holidays in the UK, Spain, Greece, Turkey, US and now in India.

Tour Plan (Itinerary)

DAY 00 (29 Nov 2026)

Fly from London to Cochin International Airport (Kerala – India)

DAY 01 (30 Nov 2026)

Transfer from Cochin airport to our first hotel in The Backwaters region. The Hotel sits right on the edge of the lagoon and provides a deep sense of calm, a wonderful place to relax after a long flight. Settle in and find your feet. By early evening we will be ready to come together for an informal introduction, short tutorial and tips and tricks for making the most of this painting holiday in Kerala. Juice/cookies/mineral water will be provided during the travel in the bus and Lunch will be provided at the hotel. Rest of the afternoon free to relax / enjoy swimming pool. (Optional Ayurveda massage possible in the hotel).

DAY 02 (01 Dec 2026)

The best way to see The Backwaters is from the water, so we soak it all up on a boat trip along local canals. Houseboats, fishing boats, ferry canoes, women washing clothes and cooking pots, birds and a tangle of tropical plants. We take photographs and make quick sketches on the move – don’t forget to make colour notes. Experiment with small-scale painting on the canal side, focusing on reflections, movement and colour. We have lunch with a local family – a traditional meal served on banana leaves, fingers only! Learn how to include people in your paintings, and how to capture the sunset – be quick, dusk comes very quickly.

Our tutor will offer demonstrations on technique and there is always an informal critique of the days events. We have scheduled in time to relax, have a massage, take a swim and absorb!
In the morning, you can have a 3 hours boat cruise from 0930 to 1230 hrs. After the boat cruise a traditional Kerala Lunch at Boatman’s house will be provided. Then transfer a painting session near the boatman house and after transfer to Hotel.

DAY 03 (02 Dec 2026)

After the breakfast, you will drive to a location near the canal and a temple for painting. Lunch will be served in a restaurant near the location and transfer to Hotel. Afternoon painting session at Hotel.

DAY 04 (03 Dec 2026)

A painting session at hotel in the morning. After the lunch in the hotel, there is an option to walk in the village or relax at hotel or take an optional Ayurveda Massage.

DAY 05 (04 Dec 2026)

After breakfast from the Hotel, drive to Periyar. The five hour drive to Thekkady in Periyar is spectacular as our minibus climbs high into the green hills. After settling in at the luxury Elephant Route Hotel, we take a walk to absorb local life and colour. We head off early next morning to Chellar Kovil region, and a plantation with a high view point. We paint ‘the big picture’ birds eye views, before looking at subjects close up; exotic plants and spices. Paint amidst cardamom, pepper, fenugreek and cinnamon in the spice gardens. As an optional extra, we visit a local school of Keralan cuisine to watch a cooking demonstration before dining on the delicious results!

On your free day, choose from various options including a boat cruise on the lake, visiting the most fantastic bookshop or a visit to an elephant sanctuary – a wonderful opportunity to capture these majestic beasts in our sketch books.

In the evening we are treated to a thrilling display of Kerala Martial Arts – The Kalaripayattu show and can have an evening village walk.

DAY 06 (05 Dec 2026)

In the morning after breakfast 10 mins drive to spice plantation for a visit and painting session. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant. Afternoon Optional Jeep safari to Tamil Nadu or own activities.

DAY 07 (06 Dec 2026)

Painting with Elephants, in the morning and Lunch will be served in a local restaurant and back to hotel for painting session or free for optional tour, for example boat ride or jungle walk.

DAY 08 (07 Dec 2026)

Periyar-Munnar transfer. Lunch will be served en route half way at a restaurant.
The tea plantations surrounding the hill station of Munnar in The Western Ghats. At 1,500 metres, this vibrant small town is set amidst lush, green tea gardens that contour the landscape. We can walk into Munnar from our hotel. We move around with our sketchbooks capturing varied subjects, a temple, Churchill bridge, Main street and the busy vegetable market – learn the art of quick sketching.

Our painting locations reflect the fresh greens of this tea-growing region. We take on the challenge of painting all that green, and looking more closely at rhythm and pattern. At Seven Malai, a pretty village with a river running through it, we spend a few hours painting the plantation workers colourful cottages, in the shade of large trees.

The Hotel has an upper restaurant from where we can paint the magnificent views from the panoramic windows. There is time to rest and recuperate between excursions.
Evening free to walk around in the town.

DAY 09 (08 Dec 2026)

Full day dedicated for painting and back to hotel by evening.

DAY 10 (09 Dec 2026)

Morning 10min drive to a tea plantation for painting and after lunch option to visit Tea Museum and watch different activities of tea making & visit to Eravikulam National park, Dam and Eco point etc…

DAY 11 (10 Dec 2026)

Morning Transfer to Fort Kochi.

We set off early on the last leg of our adventure, through varied landscapes of mountains, waterfalls, towns and villages and stop at aptly named ‘Cloud 9’ restaurant for lunch with panoramic views. It’s a perfect spot for photographs.

We are staying in the stylish Hotel in the heart of Fort Cochin. This old European settlement and the many wonderful buildings remind us of its rich colonial past. After restoring ourselves, we take a walk to see the glorious Chinese fishing nets, stalls and shops on the sea front, before watching the sun dip into the Arabian Sea, once more.

DAY 12 (11 Dec 2026)

After breakfast guided city tour to visit to Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church and Chinese Fishing Net, Jewish Synagogue, Etc… Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Afternoon painting session in the Hotel.

DAY 13 (12 Dec 2026)

Morning painting session in the Hotel. Then transfer to a local restaurant for delicious pure vegetarian lunch and afternoon free for own programme.
In the evening, a Farewell Dinner will be served.

DAY 14 (13 Dec 2026)

Like all good things, your painting holiday experience comes to an end but you will always carry with you memories of this unique and unforgettable experience. Today you will be assisted and transferred to Cochin International Airport.

To book this package:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the Anna Martin Painting Holiday in Kerala?

The Anna Martin Painting holiday offers guided art sessions, scenic location visits, comfortable stays, and cultural experiences. It combines travel with creativity, giving you the chance to learn painting techniques while enjoying Kerala’s natural beauty and hospitality.

What level of painting experience do I need?

This painting holiday welcomes artists of all levels, from complete beginners to experienced painters. Anna Martin provides personalized guidance and demonstrations tailored to each participant’s skill level, ensuring everyone has a rewarding creative experience.

What are painting holiday tours in Kerala like?

Painting holiday tours in Kerala blend structured workshops with sightseeing. Travelers enjoy sketching temples, backwaters, wildlife, and markets, guided by professionals. These tours suit both hobbyists and serious artists seeking artistic inspiration during their Kerala journey.

What painting materials do I need to bring?

A detailed materials list will be sent to you after booking confirmation. Generally, you should bring your preferred painting supplies including paints, brushes, paper/canvas, and a portable easel. Basic supplies may also be available for purchase locally if needed.

What is the group size?

We maintain an intimate group size with a minimum 05 and maximum of 12 participants to ensure personalized attention from Anna and a quality learning experience for everyone.

What is the accommodation like?

You’ll stay in charming, high-quality hotels/resorts with en-suite facilities throughout the tour. Accommodation includes 4 nights in Kumarakom (backwaters), 3 nights in Periyar, 3 nights in Munnar (tea plantations), and 3 nights in Fort Kochi.

What is included in the per person cost?

The package includes 13 nights full board accommodation (all meals), en-suite rooms in quality hotels, air-conditioned transport, full-time local tour manager, all painting locations access, half-day boat tour, spice plantation tour, tea factory visit, cultural show tickets, and all entrance fees.

What is not included in the price?

International flight tickets, home and airport transfers, visa fees, travel insurance, extra drinks at meals, tips, personal expenses, and optional activities like Ayurveda massages or jeep safaris are not included.

What is the single occupancy cost/supplement?

6Single occupancy costs £2900 per person (£400 more than sharing). Sharing occupancy is £2300 per person.

When do I need to pay?

A deposit of £250 is required to secure your booking. The balance payment is 30 days before your departure date. After the confirmation of your booking we will sent an invoice for deposit payment.

What is the cancellation policy?

The deposit is 100% refundable up to 50 days before departure. If you have paid the final amount, 50% is refundable up to 10 days before departure. Cancellations within 10 days of departure are non-refundable.

Do I need a visa to visit India?

Yes, international visitors require a visa to enter India. We recommend applying for an e-Visa through the official Indian government website at least 30 days before your travel date. Detailed visa application instructions will be provided after booking confirmation. We offer complimentary assistance with the visa process.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance from your home country covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, flight changes/cancellations, and personal belongings. Insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

What is the weather like in Kerala in February?

February is an ideal time to visit Kerala with pleasant weather, temperatures ranging from 23-32°C (73-90°F), minimal rainfall, and comfortable conditions for outdoor painting. This is part of the best season (October-March) for visiting Kerala.

Can a non-painting partner join?

Yes, non-painting partners are welcome to join the holiday. They can explore destinations independently, join sightseeing tours, or participate in optional activities. We offer a special discount for non-painting partners—please contact us for specific pricing.

What about meals and dietary requirements?

All meals are included (full board). You’ll experience traditional Kerala cuisine including lunch on banana leaves, cooking demonstrations, and varied dining experiences. Please inform us of any dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, allergies) at the time of booking.