India Photo Tour
A Journey Through Bharat: Kerala
November 12, 2026 – November 21, 2026
$3,275 Double occupancy/ $4,000 Single occupancy/ $2,500 Non-photographer partner
photography, and cultural storytelling with professional models, authentic performances, and a relaxing Ayurvedic rejuvenation
complemented by 10 days of luxurious stays, daily meals, seamless ground transportation, curated locations, local guidance, styling support,
and thoughtfully planned photography experiences throughout the journey.
Tour Overview
Welcome to a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive photography journey through South India — thoughtfully crafted for visual storytellers who seek more than just beautiful images. This is your invitation to slow down, observe deeply, and capture the gentle poetry of Kerala during one of its most lush and expressive seasons.
Join us for an unforgettable creative adventure across Munnar, Alleppey, and Kochi, designed for photographers who crave atmosphere, culture, and storytelling alongside striking visuals. From mist-covered tea plantations and tranquil backwaters to vibrant markets and centuries-old coastal streets, this immersive experience blends model photography, street photography, cultural encounters, and everyday life documentation.
Whether you’re framing the soft rhythms of village life along palm-lined canals, the layered landscapes of rolling tea gardens, or the artistic traditions of Kathakali performers preparing backstage, each moment offers a new perspective and creative possibility. With every detail seamlessly arranged — from airport transfers and charming stays to curated shoots, local experiences, and nourishing regional cuisine — you can fully surrender to your artistic process.
This is more than a tour. It is a visual retreat into nature, culture, and connection — a journey where stories unfold gently, light moves slowly, and your camera becomes a bridge between observation and emotion.
Tour Dates
November 12, 2026 – November 21, 2026
(10 Days / 9 Nights, 3 cities, 1 unforgettable photography journey)
Tour Highlights

Munnar
Wander through the emerald hills of Munnar — where endless tea gardens roll into misty mountains and quiet trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Capture soft morning light, drifting clouds, hidden waterfalls, and the calm poetry of Kerala’s highlands.

Alleppey
Drift through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey — where palm-lined canals, floating houseboats, and village life unfold at an unhurried pace. Capture golden reflections, fishermen at work, and the gentle rhythm of water weaving through Kerala’s most peaceful landscape.

Kochi
Explore the soulful streets of Kochi — where colonial charm, vibrant markets, and seaside Chinese fishing nets tell stories of trade and culture. Capture textured walls, slow harbor life, and the artistic spirit flowing through this historic coastal town.
Itinary
Day 1 - Arrival in Kochi
Welcome to Kerala — let the journey begin!
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Arrive at Cochin International Airport (COK)
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Private transfer to hotel, refreshments on arrival
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Free time to rest or take a light neighborhood walk
5:30 PM – Welcome Meet & Cultural Briefing
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Group introductions and tour overview
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Tips on local customs and attire,
7:00 PM – Group Dinner
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Indian alongside continental options
Overnight in Kochi
DAY 2 – Travel to Munnar
7:30 AM – Breakfast at Hotel
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with Indian and continental options before departure
9:00 AM – Departure for Munnar
Begin your scenic drive into the Western Ghats, passing through lush countryside, spice plantations, and mountain roads
En-route Photography Stops
Pause at picturesque waterfalls and viewpoints for landscape photography and travel storytelling
1:30 PM – Lunch Break
Comfortable lunch stop offering a mix of local Kerala cuisine and continental dishes
3:30 PM – Arrival & Check-in in Munnar
Settle into your hill retreat surrounded by tea plantations and cool mountain air
5:00 PM – Tea Garden Evening Shoot
Gentle photography walk through rolling tea landscapes with opportunities for textures, patterns, and environmental storytelling
6:15 PM – Sunset Mist Session
Capture soft evening light and layered hill views as mist moves across the valleys
7:30 PM – Group Dinner
Dinner with regional flavours and continental choices
Overnight in Munnar
Day 3 — Munnar | Model Shoot Day in the Tea Hills
5:00 AM – Early Breakfast / Packed Breakfast
Light early breakfast at the hotel or packed breakfast boxes provided before departure.
5:30 AM – Departure for Tea Plantations
Travel to selected tea garden locations to prepare for first light.
6:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Sunrise Model & Local Interaction Shoot
A 4-hour model photography session within the tea plantations, providing rich portrait and storytelling opportunities.
10:30 AM – Return & Rest Time
Return to the hotel for rest, image backup, and recharge.
1:30 PM – Lunch Break
Lunch with Indian and continental options.
3:30 PM – Departure for Evening Locations
Travel to selected tea estate viewpoints and scenic hill roads.
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Golden Hour & Sunset Model Shoot
A second 3-hour model session across selected hill locations, taking advantage of golden-hour and sunset light.
8:30 PM – Group Dinner
Dinner with Kerala and continental selections.
Overnight in Munnar
Day 4 — Munnar | Landscape, Culture & Wellness
6:15 AM – Sunrise Landscape Shoot
Early departure to a panoramic viewpoint to capture layered hills, morning mist, and soft directional light across the tea valleys.
8:30 AM – Breakfast
Return to the hotel for breakfast with Indian and continental options.
10:30 AM – Village Walk & Environmental Photography
Leisurely walk through a nearby village area offering opportunities to document daily life, textures, colours, and candid storytelling moments.
1:30 PM – Lunch & Rest Break
Relaxed lunch followed by downtime to rest, review images, and recharge.
3:30 PM – Waterfall & Nature Photography
Afternoon visit to a scenic waterfall and surrounding forest area for nature photography and creative framing.
6:30 PM – Cultural Performance Experience
Enjoy a traditional Kerala cultural program featuring classical dance or martial art demonstrations.
7:30 PM – Ayurvedic Massage Experience
Unwind with an included Ayurvedic massage session, offering relaxation and rejuvenation after active shooting days.
8:30 PM – Group Dinner
Dinner with Kerala specialties and continental options.
Overnight in Munnar
Day 5 — Munnar → Alleppey | Journey to the Backwaters
8:00 AM – Breakfast & Check-out
Enjoy breakfast with Indian and continental options before departing from the hills.
9:30 AM – Scenic Drive to Alleppey
Begin your journey from Munnar to Alleppey, descending through lush countryside, plantations, and village landscapes with occasional photography stops along the way.
1:30 PM – Lunch En-route
Comfortable lunch stop offering a mix of regional cuisine and continental dishes.
3:30 PM – Arrival & Check-in in Alleppey
Check in to your backwater resort / houseboat setting and take time to settle into the tranquil surroundings.
5:00 PM – Canoe & Backwater Exploration Shoot
Gentle exploration of canals and village waterways, capturing reflections, boats, coconut-lined shores, and everyday life along the backwaters.
6:00 PM – Sunset Backwater Photography
Evening session focusing on warm light, silhouettes, and peaceful water landscapes.
7:30 PM – Group Dinner
Dinner featuring Kerala coastal flavours alongside continental selections.
Overnight in Alleppey
Day 6 — Alleppey | Backwater Model Shoot Day
5:30 AM – Early Breakfast / Packed Breakfast
Light early breakfast at the hotel or packed breakfast boxes provided before departure.
6:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Sunrise Model Shoot in Backwaters
A 4-hour morning model photography session across selected backwater locations, exploring boat settings, canal-side environments, and soft tropical morning light.
10:30 AM – Return & Rest Time
Return to the hotel for relaxation, image backup, and downtime.
1:30 PM – Lunch Break
Lunch with Indian and continental options.
3:30 PM – Departure for Evening Locations
Travel to curated backwater viewpoints and village surroundings.
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Golden Hour & Sunset Model Shoot
A second 3-hour model session in the backwaters, taking advantage of golden-hour tones, reflections, and serene tropical landscapes.
8:30 PM – Group Dinner
Dinner with Kerala coastal cuisine and continental selections.
Overnight in Alleppey
Day 7 — Alleppey | Backwater & Local Life
6:15 AM – Sunrise Backwater Photography
Early morning session capturing fishermen, boats, reflections, and the calm rhythm of life along the canals.
8:30 AM – Breakfast
Return to the hotel for breakfast with Indian and continental options.
10:30 AM – Village Walk & Lifestyle Photography
Guided walk through nearby backwater villages offering opportunities to photograph daily life, textures, local crafts, and environmental portraits.
1:30 PM – Lunch & Rest Break
Relaxed lunch followed by free time to rest, review images, and recharge.
3:30 PM – Canal & Paddy Field Exploration
Afternoon exploration of surrounding canals and paddy landscapes, focusing on storytelling frames and environmental compositions.
5:45 PM – Sunset Reflection Session
Evening photography session capturing warm light, silhouettes, and tranquil water reflections.
7:30 PM – Group Dinner
Dinner with regional Kerala dishes and continental selections.
Overnight in Alleppey
Day 8 — Alleppey → Kochi | Culture & Coastal Streets
8:00 AM – Breakfast & Check-out
Enjoy breakfast with Indian and continental options before departing Alleppey.
9:30 AM – Drive to Kochi
Comfortable transfer to Kochi through coastal Kerala landscapes.
12:30 PM – Arrival & Check-in
Check in to your hotel in Fort Kochi and take time to settle in.
1:30 PM – Lunch Break
Lunch at a local restaurant offering Kerala cuisine and continental dishes.
3:30 PM – Fort Kochi Heritage Walk
Guided photography walk through colonial streets, colourful walls, cafés, and historic lanes, ideal for street and texture photography.
5:45 PM – Chinese Fishing Nets Sunset Shoot
Evening session capturing silhouettes, coastal activity, and golden light along Kochi’s iconic waterfront.
7:30 PM – Group Dinner
Dinner featuring regional flavours alongside continental selections.
Overnight in Kochi
Day 9 — Kochi | Coastal Model Shoot Day
5:30 AM – Early Breakfast / Packed Breakfast
Light early breakfast at the hotel or packed breakfast boxes provided before departure.
6:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Sunrise Coastal Model Shoot
Morning model photography session across selected Fort Kochi locations, including coastal viewpoints and quiet streets, making use of soft morning light and serene surroundings.
10:30 AM – Return & Rest Time
Return to the hotel for relaxation, image backup, and downtime.
1:30 PM – Lunch Break
Lunch with Indian and continental options.
3:30 PM – Departure for Evening Locations
Travel to curated coastal and heritage spots for the afternoon session.
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Golden Hour & Sunset Model Shoot
A second 3-hour model session across Fort Kochi locations, taking advantage of golden-hour tones, textures, and harbour atmosphere.
8:30 PM – Group Dinner
Farewell dinner with Kerala specialties and continental selections.
Overnight in Kochi
Day 10 — Kochi | Departure Day
8:30 AM – Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with Indian and continental options.
Morning at Leisure
Free time to rest, pack, take a short walk in Fort Kochi, or revisit favourite nearby spots for personal photography.
Check-out & Airport Transfers
Private transfers arranged to Cochin International Airport (COK) according to your flight schedule.
As your South India photography journey concludes, depart with a diverse collection of images, shared experiences, and lasting creative inspiration.
Tour Concludes in Kochi
Ready to Capture India’s Soul?
This journey is designed for photographers who crave real connection, cultural beauty, and timeless portraits.
Spots are limited to maintain an intimate, creative environment.
Reserve your seat today — and step into a world of vibrant stories waiting to be told.
Model Photography Sessions
Step into a world where fashion, tradition, and storytelling meet.
During this journey, you’ll have the rare privilege to create timeless portraits with professional models styled in authentic Indian attire — blending tradition, heritage, and artistic expression at breathtaking locations.
Landscape, street, village, and cultural photography
Step into a visual journey where landscapes, street life, village rhythms, and living culture come together.
Throughout this experience, you’ll capture authentic moments across diverse settings — from sweeping natural scenery and vibrant streets to quiet rural life and rich cultural traditions — creating powerful images that tell real stories of place and people.
Model Photography Sessions
Where tropical landscapes, culture, and storytelling come together
Throughout this journey, you will have the opportunity to create evocative portraits with professional models styled in regionally inspired attire — blending nature, coastal heritage, and artistic expression across some of Kerala’s most visually captivating environments.
Locations
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Rolling tea plantations and misty hill viewpoints in Munnar
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Tropical backwater canals, wooden boats, and coconut groves in Alleppey
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Colonial streets, textured walls, and coastal settings in Fort Kochi
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Harbour areas and iconic Chinese fishing nets offering atmospheric coastal backdrops
Wardrobe Styling
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Elegant sarees and regionally inspired drapes suited to each location
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Curated accessories complementing landscape and cultural context
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Professional hair and makeup by local stylists
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Styling adapted to nature, backwater, and heritage environments
Shoot Format
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Small photographer-to-model ratio for quality creative time
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Rotation system ensuring each photographer works individually with each model
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Combination of guided individual shooting and collaborative group sessions
Visual Style
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Munnar: soft, nature-inspired portraiture with layered landscapes
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Alleppey: tropical storytelling with water reflections and slow-life atmosphere
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Kochi: coastal editorial imagery with heritage textures and cultural mood
Ideal for photographers seeking portfolio diversity, environmental portraiture, and narrative-driven imagery across contrasting South Indian settings.
“Capture tropical elegance, coastal heritage, and the quiet poetry of Kerala through thoughtfully styled model sessions designed for artistic exploration.”
All photos on this page are captured by photographer Jeroen Gordijn
(Instagram: vampireerotica).
Ready to Capture India’s Soul?
This journey is designed for photographers who crave real connection, cultural beauty, and timeless portraits.
Spots are limited to maintain an intimate, creative environment.
Reserve your seat today — and step into a world of vibrant stories waiting to be told.
What to Expect
A Creative, Cultural Photography Journey
Street, people, and cultural photography across Kerala’s most visually rich destinations — Munnar, Alleppey, and Kochi
Professional model shoots thoughtfully styled to complement natural landscapes, backwaters, and coastal heritage environments
Daily sunrise and golden-hour sessions designed to maximise the best natural light conditions
Small group of maximum 8 photographers to ensure personal creative space and shooting time
A harmonious blend of tranquil nature, slow backwater life, and vibrant coastal culture
What’s Not Included
International flights to and from India (Kochi)
Indian Tourist Visa (required, apply online)
Personal travel insurance (mandatory for participation)
Alcoholic beverages and personal snacks outside group meals
Personal shopping, souvenirs, or individual expenses
Tips for hotel staff, drivers, and guides (optional but appreciated)
Private room supplement (if you prefer single occupancy)
Optional activities during free time not included in the main itinerary
Excess baggage fees (if applicable)
Camera equipment rentals (participants are requested to bring their own gear)
What’s Included
Everything you need for a seamless and inspiring South India photography experience is thoughtfully included — simply bring your camera and creative vision.
Three dedicated model shooting days across Munnar, Alleppey, and Kochi in carefully curated locations
Additional landscape, street, village, and cultural photography sessions throughout the journey
Professional models styled to complement Kerala’s natural and cultural environments
Guided street, village, and people photography walks
Access to curated indoor and outdoor shooting locations across Munnar, Alleppey, and Kochi
Comfortable stays in premium boutique and selected five-star properties, including scenic backwater accommodation
Private ground transportation between cities in an air-conditioned vehicle
All meals included (breakfast, lunch, and dinner with local and continental options)
Model releases for all professional model sessions
Cultural experiences including a traditional performance in Munnar
Included Ayurvedic massage and wellness experience for relaxation during the tour
All entry fees and location permits included
Refreshments and snacks during extended shoot days
Welcome kit and curated small surprises throughout the journey
Full on-ground coordination and support from arrival to departure
Meals & Essentials
All meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring Kerala specialties alongside continental options
Refreshments and snacks provided during extended shooting days
Group dinners at carefully selected restaurants and cafés with scenic or heritage surroundings
Special culinary experiences showcasing authentic Kerala flavours and regional dishes
Recommended Camera Gear for the Tour
To capture Kerala’s landscapes, culture, and everyday life at their best, we recommend bringing:
Any camera brand — DSLR, mirrorless, or high-quality compact
Lenses — Bring what you have, but ideally:
Wide-angle (14–24mm) for tea plantations, backwaters, and landscapes
Mid-range zoom (24–70mm) for street scenes, portraits, and general storytelling
Telephoto (70–200mm) for candid moments, compressed landscapes, and distant subjects
Tripod — Recommended for sunrise, sunset, reflections, and low-light situations (lightweight preferred; some locations may restrict tripod use)
Remote shutter release — Helpful for long exposures and stability
High-speed memory cards — Reliable, large-capacity cards for smooth shooting and backups
Laptop (optional) — Useful for image review, editing, and storage on the go
Portable hard drive (essential) — Daily backup is strongly recommended
Comfortable backpack — To carry camera gear, batteries, memory cards, and water during walks and shoots
Power bank — For phones and small accessories during long days
Lens cleaning kit — Important for humid and outdoor environments
Need help choosing or upgrading equipment?
We’re happy to guide you before the journey
What to pack (Clothing & Personal Items)
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Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid tropical conditions, with light layers for cooler hill mornings in Munnar
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Modest outfits recommended for temple visits and local village walks
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Comfortable walking shoes plus sandals for relaxed backwater environments
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Hat, scarf, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection during outdoor sessions
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Universal plug adapter (India uses Type C, D, and M sockets)
Who This Is For
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Photographers who enjoy environmental portraiture, street scenes, and cultural storytelling
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Creatives seeking immersive, meaningful visual experiences beyond typical travel photography
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Anyone looking to build a distinctive and diverse travel portfolio across landscapes, people, and culture
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Artists eager to explore both well-known highlights and quieter, atmospheric corners of South India
Why This Time of Year?
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Mid-November offers excellent photography conditions with comfortable weather and lush post-monsoon landscapes across Kerala
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A vibrant cultural period with active village life, performing arts, and seasonal local festivities throughout the region
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Misty mornings in Munnar’s tea hills paired with glowing sunsets over Alleppey’s backwaters and Kochi’s coast
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Pleasant travel conditions and balanced visitor flow, allowing relaxed shooting time and immersive cultural experiences
Photo Etiquette & Tips
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Tripod use may be restricted at certain temples, cultural venues, and crowded public areas
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Natural light is encouraged; flash photography should be avoided during performances, rituals, and sensitive moments
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Maintain a respectful presence and blend into the environment, particularly in sacred spaces and local communities
Travel, Stays & Support
Seamless & Comfortable Logistics
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Private air-conditioned vehicle for all intercity travel across Munnar, Alleppey, and Kochi
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No domestic flights required — a relaxed overland route designed for comfort and scenic transitions
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Premium boutique and selected five-star properties offering comfort, character, and scenic surroundings
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Airport transfers, internal transport, and daily logistics fully coordinated throughout the journey
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Local facilitators and on-ground team support accompanying you during key experiences and movements
Cultural Sensitivity
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Dress modestly when visiting temples and traditional community spaces
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Always seek permission before taking close-up portraits of individuals
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Respect photography restrictions at sacred rituals, performances, and culturally sensitive areas
Fitness & Comfort
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Moderate fitness recommended due to walking, steps, and occasional uneven terrain
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Regular rest periods thoughtfully built into the itinerary between shooting sessions
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Hotel Wi-Fi available at accommodations; connectivity may be limited in some rural or backwater areas
Visa & Travel Insurance
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Valid passport with Indian e-Tourist Visa (apply online prior to travel)
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Travel insurance mandatory (recommended to cover both personal health and photography equipment)
Weather Overview
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Munnar: Cool and refreshing hill climate (approx. 12–22°C / 54–72°F) with misty mornings and soft atmospheric light
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Alleppey: Warm tropical weather (approx. 24–32°C / 75–90°F) with gentle humidity and glowing sunsets over the backwaters
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Kochi: Coastal conditions with warm days, sea breeze, and vibrant golden-hour light along heritage streets and harbour areas
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An ideal season for misty hill landscapes, serene water reflections, and relaxed golden-hour photography across Kerala
Pricing & Payment
Tour Price
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$3,275 USD per photographer — Double occupancy
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$4,000 USD per photographer — Single occupancy
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$2,500 USD — Non-photographer partner (shared room, no model shoot participation)
Prices are listed in USD for international convenience. GBP / EUR equivalents will be calculated at the prevailing exchange rate at the time of booking.
Secure your spot with a 30% advance deposit(non-refundable)
Pay the balance in flexible parts based on booking date
Flights to/from India (Kochi) are not included
How do I pay the remaining balance, and can I pay in installments?
Yes — absolutely!
To secure your spot, you only need to pay the 30% advance deposit by the booking deadlines:
After your deposit (the remaining balance can be paid in flexible parts)
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50% of the balance is due Three month before the tour starts
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The remaining 20% is due upon arrival in India
We’re happy to help you arrange a clear payment schedule — just let us know when you apply!
Will you be modeling during this photo tour?
No — I will not be modeling for this tour.
I will be fully dedicated as the organizer and tour leader, staying with the group at all times to ensure everything runs smoothly and that you have the best creative experience possible.
You’ll work with our selected professional models during the styled shoots.
Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to India?
While no vaccinations are legally required to enter India, it’s strongly recommended you check with your doctor or travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure.
Common recommended vaccinations include:
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Hepatitis A and B
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Typhoid
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Tetanus
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Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, etc.)
If you’re traveling from a country with yellow fever, you may need proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Tip: Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your health and travel history.
Are the hotels provided single occupancy or double occupancy?
Accommodation is provided on a double occupancy (shared room) basis by default.
Participants who prefer additional privacy may request single occupancy at an additional cost.
Can I request glamour or art nude shoots with the models during this tour?
No — during this tour, we are only offering ethnic costume and traditional attire model shoots.
There will be no glamour or art nude photography, either indoor or outdoor.
This experience is focused on cultural, artistic, and heritage themes in respectful, authentic settings.
Do we have to eat Indian traditional food every day?
No — meals throughout the journey include a variety of options. While you will have the opportunity to enjoy authentic regional dishes, continental and familiar international choices are also available daily, ensuring comfort and flexibility for all participants.
Can I book my accommodation somewhere else?
If you want, you can book your own accommodation, but we do not recommend it.
Please note that all group activities, pickups, and meetings will start from the hotel we arrange — so if you stay elsewhere, you’ll need to arrive at the designated meeting point (our hotel) on time each day.
For the smoothest experience, we suggest staying with the group.
Please email us at team@nikitagordijn.com if you want to inquire about this option.
I’d like to extend my trip after the tour and visit more cities in India — can you help?
Sure! We’d be happy to help you with recommendations or local arrangements for extending your stay in India.
Please note, however, that these extra arrangements are not part of the tour package and will need to be discussed and planned separately.
Feel free to email us at team@nikitagordijn.com to discuss your extension plans.
How to Join
- Joining this journey is simple:
- Fill out the online application form to express your interest
- Secure your spot with a 30% Advance non-refundable deposit
- After your deposit, the remaining balance can be paid in flexible parts
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50% of the balance is due three months before the tour starts
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The remaining 20% is due upon arrival in India
- You’ll receive full travel support, a detailed packing list, and a trip preparation guide
- Fly to Kochi — from the moment you land, we’ll handle everything else
Ready to Capture India’s Soul?
This journey is designed for photographers who crave real connection, cultural beauty, and timeless portraits.
Spots are limited to maintain an intimate, creative environment.
Reserve your seat today — and step into a world of vibrant stories waiting to be told.