The combination of intense sunlight and abundant rainfall makes Kerala’s interior mountains perfect for growing spices. See how black pepper, cardamom, cloves, vanilla and cinnamon are cultivated on a small, family-run plantation. The visit starts with a cookery demonstration in which homegrown spices are combined to create traditional masala pastes. While your lunch simmers in the kitchen, join your guide for a stroll around the gardens. You’ll already know what cinnamon smells like, but by the end of the walk you’ll be able to identify the tree it comes from too.

You can add this experience to any tailor-made itinerary that includes a night in Kerala's Hill Country.