Kerala Tour Packages: Complete Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Kerala? Here’s everything you need to know before booking your Kerala tour package. From serene backwaters and misty hill stations to sun-kissed beaches and vibrant cultural experiences, Kerala has something for every traveler. This complete travel guide will help you explore the top destinations, the best time to visit, budget-friendly travel tips, and itinerary planning to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a family-friendly getaway, this guide has all the essential information to make your Kerala trip truly special.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Season | Months | Weather & Activities |
---|---|---|
Winter (Best Time) | October – March | Pleasant weather, best for sightseeing, backwaters, and hill stations. |
Summer | April – May | Hot & humid; ideal for visiting hill stations like Munnar & Wayanad. |
Monsoon | June – September | Green landscapes, heavy rain; best for Ayurveda treatments. |
For the best experience, visit between October and March!
How to Reach Kerala?
Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road:
By Air (Fastest & Most Convenient)
- International Airports:
- Cochin International Airport (COK) – Best for central & north Kerala.
- Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) – Best for southern Kerala.
- Calicut International Airport (CCJ) – Best for northern Kerala.
- Direct flights available from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
By Train (Affordable Option)
- Major railway stations: Ernakulam (Kochi), Trivandrum, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kozhikode.
- Well-connected to Indian cities via Indian Railways.
By Road (Budget-Friendly & Flexible)
- Kerala has a strong road network connected to Tamil Nadu & Karnataka.
- KSRTC buses operate from Bangalore, Chennai, and Coimbatore.
- Self-drive cars or taxis are available for intercity travel.
Tip: Flights save time, while trains and buses are more budget-friendly!
Top Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala offers a mix of beaches, backwaters, wildlife, and hill stations.
Hill Stations
- Munnar – Tea gardens, waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park.
- Wayanad – Caves, waterfalls, trekking, and lush greenery.
- Thekkady – Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spice plantations.
Beaches & Backwaters
- Alleppey & Kumarakom – Houseboats, backwater cruises.
- Kovalam – Popular beach destination with Ayurveda resorts.
- Varkala – Cliffs, golden beaches, and yoga retreats.
Wildlife & Adventure
- Periyar Tiger Reserve – Wildlife safaris, bamboo rafting.
- Parambikulam Tiger Reserve – Less crowded, great for nature lovers.
- Athirappilly Waterfalls – The "Niagara of India."
Cultural & Heritage Sites
- Fort Kochi – Colonial history, Chinese fishing nets, Kathakali performances.
- Thrissur – Kerala’s cultural capital, known for Thrissur Pooram festival.
- Guruvayur Temple – Famous Hindu pilgrimage site.
Tip: Combine hill stations, backwaters, and beaches for the perfect trip!
Best Kerala Itinerary Suggestions
Quick Getaways (3-4 Days):
- Kochi – Munnar – Alleppey (Hill station + Backwaters)
- Kochi – Thekkady – Alleppey (Wildlife + Backwaters)
Classic Kerala Tour (5-7 Days):
- Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kovalam (Hills + Wildlife + Backwaters + Beach).
Extended Kerala Experience (8-10 Days):
- Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Varkala – Wayanad (Complete Kerala tour)
Where to Stay in Kerala?
Kerala offers a range of accommodation options:
Luxury Resorts & Heritage Stays (₹8,000 – ₹20,000 per night)
- Taj Bekal Resort & Spa (Bekal)
- Kumarakom Lake Resort (Kumarakom)
- The Leela Kovalam (Kovalam)
Mid-Range Hotels (₹3,000 – ₹7,000 per night)
- Tea County Munnar (Munnar)
- Spice Village (Thekkady)
- Uday Samudra Beach Resort (Kovalam)
Budget Homestays & Hostels (₹1,000 – ₹3,000 per night)
- Zostel Wayanad
- The Rainforest Boutique Homestay (Munnar)
- Vedanta Wake Up (Fort Kochi)
Tip: Houseboat stays in Alleppey start at ₹7,000 per night.
What to Eat in Kerala? (Must-Try Dishes)
Traditional Kerala Cuisine
- Sadya – A vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf.
- Appam & Stew – Soft rice pancakes with coconut milk-based stew.
- Puttu & Kadala Curry – Steamed rice cakes with black chickpea curry.
Popular Seafood Delicacies
- Karimeen Pollichathu – Grilled pearl spot fish in banana leaf.
- Meen Curry – Spicy fish curry with coconut.
- Prawns & Crab Roast – Best enjoyed in coastal areas.
Tip: Try local toddy (palm wine) for an authentic Kerala experience!
Getting Around in Kerala
Transport Mode | Best For | Cost Estimate |
---|---|---|
Auto Rickshaws | Short distances | ₹50 – ₹150 per trip |
Buses | Budget travelers | ₹10 – ₹150 per ride |
Taxis & Cabs | Comfortable travel | ₹15 – ₹20 per km |
Houseboats | Backwater experience | ₹7,000 – ₹20,000 per night |
Scooter/Bike Rentals | Exploring local areas | ₹400 – ₹800 per day |
Tip: Use Uber/Ola in cities & prepaid taxis from airports.
Things to Do in Kerala
Must-Do Activities
- Take a houseboat cruise in Alleppey backwaters.
- Enjoy an elephant safari in Thekkady.
- Go bamboo rafting in Periyar Tiger Reserve.
- Experience Kathakali & Theyyam cultural performances.
- Try Ayurvedic spa & wellness retreats.
Tip: Book adventure activities in advance during peak season!
Budget Tips for Kerala Travel
- Travel by train or bus instead of flights for budget-friendly transport.
- Stay in homestays or budget hotels instead of luxury resorts.
- Eat at local restaurants to save on food costs.
- Choose public transport or bike rentals for sightseeing.
- Travel during the off-season (April – September) for discounts.
Tip: Budget travelers can explore Kerala for ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per day!
Packing List for Kerala
- Cotton clothes & sunglasses (hot & humid climate).
- Raincoat/umbrella (monsoon season).
- Comfortable shoes (for trekking & sightseeing).
- Sunscreen & insect repellent (especially for backwaters & forests).
- Power bank & waterproof bag (for long travel days).
Tip: Carry light luggage & a reusable water bottle!
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Perfect Kerala Getaway
Kerala offers a perfect mix of nature, adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you’re a solo traveler, honeymoon couple, or family, there’s something for everyone.
Need help planning your trip? Check out our best Kerala tour packages or contact our travel experts today!
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