Kerala is the dream destination for every traveler visiting India. The state is  bestowed with an abundance of natural beauty,varied topography, lush greenery and hospitable people. People fondly call Kerala ‘God’s own Country’. Being a native of Kerala, I have attempted to share some travel tips and provide information on some of the best tour packages available for visiting all the spots this little paradise has to offer.

Why should you visit Kerala?

– Kerala is every nature lover’s paradise. Get ready for a greenery overdose here!
– It has a mixture of different topographies. You can enjoy the amazing hill stations and tea plantations on one day, the pristine beaches or serenity of the backwaters the next day.
– Perfect place to experience diverse culture & tradition.
-Kerala’s cuisine is famous for it’s spicy & tangy curries. If you are a seafood lover, you ought to be here!
– Keralites are very hospitable and accommodating. Travelling here wouldn’t be a challenge since most of the urban population can either speak or understand English.

Do you need more reasons to visit this little paradise?

When to visit Kerala?

Kerala has 3 tourist seasons:
Peak season – September to March
Off season – April to May
Monsoon season – June to August

Why should you opt for a Package tour?

– Save Time – Package tours are ideal for people who have little or no time for planning
– Save money – Tour operators provide good deals as they do a lot of bulk booking
– Convenience – Have a stress free vacation leaving all the headache of managing your trip to tour operators
– Flexible options – Most operators offer customizable tour packages that help mix and match your itinerary.

Here is a checklist of items you’d want to consider to help finalize your tour package:

How many days do I have in hand?

– What is my budget?
– Do I have a list of must visit places?
– What is the theme of my trip? (Family, Adventure, Honeymoon, Wildlife viewing, Spiritual, etc.)
– Am I planning to visit during peak/non-peak season?
– Do I go in for an all-inclusive package?
– What are the hotels/resorts/homestays provided in the package?
– Does the package cover all the places I wish to see?
– Would the tour operator let me customize the itinerary?
– What are the additional/complimentary features included in the package?
– Is the tour operator approved by the State or Central Government?
– What are the general reviews and feedback about the tour operator?
– Here are some of the best tour packages based on reviews, recommendations and some of my personal favorites:

 1. “Boutique Kerala for Families” from Malabar Escapes

‘Malabar escapes’ is a family friendly chain of hotel villas located in 5 different destinations in Kerala. They have bagged many awards and accolades, the most recent one being Asia’s leading Boutique Hotel 2014.
Number of days-10
Price – $3500 (for 2 adults and 2 children up to 12years)
Package highlights:
– Chance to explore 4/5 Malabar escapes properties in Fort Cochin, Kanam Estate, Vembanad Lake and 1 night on a houseboat
– Fun activities for kids – Elephant rides or bullock cart excursions
– Explore tea & spice gardens and visit an ancient temple
– Undergo an Ayurvedic treatment and attend yoga classes
– Experience Kerala’s unique cuisine
Food, Accommodation & Transportation- Y/Y/N
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-Yes
Site: www.malabarhouse.com
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/malabarhouse
#: Reservation office +91-484 2216666

2. “Experience Kerala” from Makemytrip.com

This is a package tour perfect for a short family vacation without missing out on major attractions. Makemytrip.com is also recognized by the Ministry of Tourism & IATA.

Number of days-5 days/4 nights
Price –$200 per person
Highlights:
– Explore the wonderful hill stations of Munnar & Wayanad
– Wildlife viewing opportunities at Periyar lake
– Witness Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art style that originated in Kerala
– Overnight stay at a luxurious houseboat in the backwaters of Alleppey
– Private chauffer driven cab for a family
Food, Accommodation & Transportation – Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-Yes
Site : www.makemytrip.com
Toll free no: 1-800-102-2509.

3. “Mini Kerala” from Goibibo

Goibibo is a well known online hotel booking site in India. They are known for offering a wide range of holiday packages in Kerala at competitive rates.

Number of days: 4N/5D
Price: $150
Highlights:
– Places covered- Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey
– AC vehicles for sight seeing
– Airfares excluded
Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Medium
Customization-Yes
Website: goibibo.com

4. Travelist

Travelist is a dynamic travel firm providing experiential journeys. Unlike other tour operators, Travelist customizes your itinerary based on personal interests

Highlights:

– 100% customized tour packages.
– Lower prices

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-Yes
Site: www.thetravelist.in
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/TheTravelist.in/

5. “Kerala Magic” – Kerala Tourism

This package is offered by Kerala Tourism, a government body managed and run by the Tourism Department of Kerala.

Number of days: 5N/6D
Price: $200-500.
Highlights:
– Places covered –Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey
– One night stay on an air conditioned houseboat
– Includes accommodation and transportation provided by accredited service providers.
Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-Yes
Site: www.keralatourism.org

6. “Charismatic Kerala Family Holiday Package” from Travel Triangle

Travel triangle aims at connecting worldwide travelers with multiple local & expert travel agents. This package is perfect for families seeking a fun filled long holiday.

Number of days: 8 Days/7Nights
Price: $300
Highlights:

– Places covered: Munnar, Thekkady, Houseboat in Alleppey and Kovalam
– Activities covered in the trip include-Jeep Safari, Houseboat stay and beach tours
– Private cab during the entire trip
– Customized tour packages matched with 3 leading specialized travel agents to get the best deal.

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-Yes
Website: www.traveltriangle.com
Phone number: +91-120-454-5612
E-mail: customercare@traveltriangle.com

7. “Enchanting Kerala” from Abad Hotel Group

Abad Hotels and Resorts is a chain of 11 hotels and resorts in Kerala. Their budget friendly package tour themes include Hills, wildlife, backwater, beaches, heritage and Ayurveda.

Number of days: 5 Nights/6 days
Price: $250 and above
Highlights:

– Places covered – Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady & Kumarakom
– Stay at luxurious hotels & resorts from Abad Group

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-Yes
Website: www.abadhotels.com
Phone number:+91-484-2381122, 4144144
E-mail: reservations@abadhotels.com

8. “Colors of Kerala” from SOTC

SOTC is a well-known brand in organizing national & international tours. It has been in the business since 50 years. They have 12 interesting tour packages for Kerala in various price ranges.

Number of days: 4Nights/5 Days
Price: ~$200 and above
Highlights:

– Destinations covered – Cochin, Munnar and Thekkady
– Opportunity to see the wildlife on a boat safari
– Airfare not included

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-Yes
Website: www.sotc.in

9. “Experience Kerala with Taj Hotels”- Makemytrip.com

This package is ideal for all travellers seeking ultimate luxury. Experience Kerala and stay at the Taj Group of hotels.

Number of days: 5
Price: $500 and above
Highlights:

– Places covered – Cochin, Kumarakom and Varkala
– This package includes round trip flight fare to any other Indian city
– Luxurious travel experience
– Places covered – Cochin, Kumarakom and Varkala

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-No
Website: makemytrip.com
Toll free no: 1-800-102-2509.

Ayurveda Packages

Kerala is the birth place of Ayurveda therapy. Ayurvedic treatments are available throughout Kerala at different price points and categories. However, there are certain factors to be evaluated before you proceed with your Ayurveda package deal:

Time – Plan your trip during the monsoon season. This is the best time for Ayurveda since the atmosphere is cool and free from dust
Location – Choose a treatment center that is accessible from major cities
Price – Analyze different Ayurvedic treatment centers and match them with your budget
Accommodation – Check if the Ayurveda center is a stand-alone treatment center, part of a hotel or resort.
Accreditation – Check if they are approved by the Government
Quality – Make sure the center has qualified doctors, dietitian and masseurs
Communication – Ensure the staff speak at least one language that you speak to avoid any communication gap
Please note that alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited during Ayurveda treatment and only vegetarian food is provided.

Some of the recommended Ayurveda Packages are:

10. “Genuine Ayurveda” from Kerala Tourism

This is an exclusive Ayurveda only package for serious treatment seekers by Kerala Tourism.

Number of days: 7nights/8days
Price: $500-1000
Highlights:

– This package is available in both South & North Kerala destinations
– Ayurveda treatment at a renowned resort and accommodation in the same property
– Daily consultation with doctor
– Complimentary Yoga and meditation classes
– Free medication during the treatment
– Flight charges excluded

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-No
Site: www.keralatourism.org
E-mail:info@keralatourism.org.
Phone: +91-471-2321132

11. “Rejuvenation package” from Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort

Somatheeram is the world’s first Ayurvedic resort. It is located in Kovalam, which is around 14 miles away from Thiruvananthapuram. The resort is well known for its excellent ayurvedic treatment and picturesque location. Six different ayurvedic packages are offered, The Rejuvenation package being the most popular one.

Number of days: 14 Nights
Price: $1000-6000
Highlights:

– World class Ayurveda treatment
– Resort is spread across a wide expanse of greenery and a picturesque view of the ocean
– Free yoga classes
– One half-day boat tour on the backwaters
– Various cultural programs are held to acquaint guests with Kerala culture
– Winner of the “Best Wellness Centre” 2013-14 by The Government of India

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-No
Website: www.somatheeram.org
Phone: +91-471-22665 01/02/03
E-mail:info@somatheeram.org
Fax:+91-471-2266505

12.”Wellness Package” from CHG Earth

Casino Hotel Group is a popular, eco-friendly hotel group based in Cochin. They offer an exhaustive set of packages for general fitness, ageing effects, muscular pain, and obesity.

Number of days: 7 to 21 days
Price: $500 and above
Highlights:

– You can opt for one of the below three destinations:
– Coconut Lagoon – located in the backwaters of Kuttanad
– Marari Beach – a small coastal village
– Spice Village – located on the lush hills of Thekkady
– Experienced doctors and physicians
– Great place to relax and detoxify

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-Yes
Website: www.cghearth.com
Phone number: +91-484-3011711,3011712
E-mail: contact@cghearth.com

13. “De-stress Package” from Kumarakom Lake Resort

The Kumarakom Lake Resort is located on a sprawling 25 acres coconut grove on the banks of Lake Vembanad. The goodness of Ayurveda coupled with the serenity of lake is perfect for unwinding from the ever-bustling city life. KLR offers 5 Ayurveda packages-Panchakarma, Rejuvention, De-Stress, Weight reduction and Beauty-care treatment.

Number of days: 7/14/21 days
Price: $400(for 7days) and above
Highlights:

– This package includes daily yoga & meditation
– Cultural program & 1 hour sunset cruise for guests
– KLR was awarded India’s leading resort 2012 by The World Travel & also listed in top 25 resorts in Asia

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-No
Website: www.kumarakomlakeresort.in
Phone: 0091-481-2524900
Fax: 0091-481-2524987
E-mail: klresort@vsnl.com

Culture Tour Packages to Kerala:

14. “Kerala Culture Tours” from Kerala Tour Packages

This package is ideal for all those culture curious people who want a perfect blend of exploring and learning.

Number of days: 10 Nights/11 Days
Price: ~$700-1000
Highlights:

– Interact with the locals making your trip more meaningful & memorable
– Places covered – Cochin, Munnar, Periyar, Kumarakom, Allppey and Marari
– Cooking and dinner with local family
– Experience Kerala’s traditional dance forms
– Visit to women empowerment center
– Yoga & nature walk, jungle trek & houseboat stay included in the trip
– Airfare excluded

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-No
Website: www.keralatourpackages.com
Phone: +91-9995809003/06/08
E-mail: tour@ttpkerala.com
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/thetravelplanners

15. “Scents and Colors of Kerala” from Aryavrit Travels

Aryavrit Travels is a well-known name in the tourism industry for their sheer professionalism and interesting tour packages offered.
Number of days: 11Days/10 Nights
Price: Varies based on package chosen
Highlights:

– Places covered- Trivandrum, Cochin, Munnar, Periyar, Kovalam, Kumarakom, Allepey and Kanyakumari
– Activities include Ayurveda massage, cooking lessons, henna session, yoga, Kerala dance forms, local family meets, bike rides, etc.
– Accredited by the Ministry of Tourism and other Indian & International tourism organizations such as IATO, TAFI, ASTA and TIES

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-Yes

16. “Unique Homestay Package” from India Tour Planners

Homestays are gaining a lot of popularity for offering affordable accommodation alternatives for tourists with a low travel budget. Living along with natives helps one understand their culture, lifestyle, cuisine, language and art in the best possible way.

Number of days: 18
Price: $1000 and above
Highlights:

– “Feel at home” experience
– Places covered-Calicut, Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Kovalam Kasargode and Tellicherry
– They are approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-Yes
Website: www.indiantourplanners.com
Phone: +91 8592046665
E-mail: mail@indiantourplanners.com

17. “Lakshadweep Samudram” from Lakshadweep Tourism

Kerala also offers a number of island escapades. Lakshadweep is a famous tourist island getaway, around 250 miles off India’s west coast in the Arabian sea made up of a group of 27 small islands. “Lakshadweep Samudram” is a cruise trip from Cochin to discover 3 of the 27 islands. It is recommended visiting this pristine island anytime between Oct – mid May

Number of days: 5days
Price:$400 and above
Highlights:

– Explore the islands of Kavaratti, Kalpeni and Minicoy by ship M.V Kavaratti. These islands have some of the pristine beaches, amazing coral reef and shallow lagoon
– Swimming, snorkeling, water sports and local sightseeing
– Tour organized by The Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism & Sports (SPORTS)

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-No
Website: www.lakshadweeptourism.com
Phone: +91-4896-262250,263331
E-mail: adtourism.lk@gmail.com

18. “Mesmerising Poovar Honeymoon package” from Irisholidays

Poovar is a hidden island located on the southwestern tip of Kerala. It is around 21 miles from Thiruvananthapuram.
Number of days: 3days/2 nights
Price: ~$200
Highlights:

– Accomodation at the Poovar Island resorts. Stay in one of their cozy cottages with good scenic views of the Poovar backwaters
– Highly recommend staying at their floating cottages

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-Yes
Website: www.irisholidays.com
Phone number: +91-999-500-4276, +91-989-524-0611
E-mail: team@irisholidays.com

19. “Dream Kerala Honeymoon Package” from Irisholidays.com

Irisholidays is well known for its sincerity and professional approach. They have won the Tripadvisor certificate of excellence in 2014, 2015 & 2016

Number of days: 5Nights/6Days
Price: $360 and above
Highlights:

– Places covered- Munnar, Athirappilly waterfalls, Alleppey & Cochin
– Unique accommodation such as staying in a tree house
– Complimentary Ayurvedic massage for the couple
– Overnight stay at an air conditioned houseboat

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-Excellent
Customization-Yes
Website: www.irisholidays.com
Phone number: +91-999-500-4276, +91-989-524-0611
E-mail: team@irisholidays.com

Backwater Tour Packages in Kerala:

Let’s also check out some famous backwater tours in Kerala.

20. “Backwater Beckons” from Kerala Tourism

Kerala Tourism offers a package tour for a quick escape to the backwaters. This package is perfect for those who want to spend more time on the backwaters and experience local living.

Number of days: 2 Nights/3 Days
Price: ~$100-300
Highlights:

– Guided tour to the villages on the banks of Vembanad lake to understand local culture & lifestyle
– Walk through the coconut groves, paddy fields, vegetable plantations & dairy farms
– Try your hands with coir making, weaving coconut leaves and fishing

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-Yes
Website: www.keralatourism.org

21. Team Ecoventures

Are you a true nature lover? If so don’t think twice, Team Ecoventures offers a variety of packages that take you a step close to Kerala’s natural beauty

Highlights:

– A chance to explore Kerala’s rich flora and fauna, wildlife and camping with a nature loving enthusiastic team.
– Activities include camping, trekking, wildlife tours, photography tours, butterfly watching and birding
– Tour days range from 2-6 days
– No customized tours offered

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-No
Website: www.teamecoventures.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/teamecoventures
Phone: +91-9846662341 ,9846667116

22. “Eco Tourism” from Thenmala Ecotourism

Thenmala Ecotourism is Kerala’s first planned ecotourism destination. It is located 44 miles away from Thiruvanathapuram. This package is perfect for all adventure enthusiasts who want to explore the varied flora & fauna of Thenmala in a short period of time.

Highlights:

Three types of packages offered:

Ecotourism-This includes soft trekking (2hrs, $2) or Sanctuary trekking (1day, $40)
Day trip-a day full of fun with butterfly safari, soft trekking & other adventures (1day, $2-30)
Over night stay- Park package (1.5Days) and Ecotrek package (2Days)

A knowledgeable guide will accompany the group throughout the trip

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-No
Website: thenmalaecotourism.com
Phone: 0475-2344800,+91-9496344800,9495344800

E-mail: info@thenmalaecotourism.com,ingo@teps.in

Spiritual Tours to Kerala

23. “Temples of Kerala” – Vivekananda Travels Pvt. Ltd

Vivekananda Travels is one of the top tour operators specializing in spiritual tours across the country recognized by the Tourism department, GOI.
Number of days: 9D
Price: $150
Highlights:

– More than 50 temples covered in this tour
– Visit sacred sites and experience the culture, history and various religious practices
– Only vegetarian food will be provided during the tour

Food, Accommodation & Transportation: Y/Y/Y
Reputation-High
Customization-No
Website: www.vivekanandatravelspltd.com
E-mail : info@vivekanandatravelspltd.com
Phone: +91 0495-2727800,2727100,2725180,272757

Adventure tours to Kerala:

24.”Bon Fire and Stargazing”- Thrillophilia

Thrillophilia is India’s biggest online platform for booking adventure activities and nature trips. Bon fire and stargazing is a perfect trip for families who want to enjoy the calm and serenity of nature.

Number of days: Customizable/based on package
Price Range: $5-400
Highlights:

– A wide variety of adventure activities such as
– Jeep safari in the hills
– Camping & Bonfire
– Backwater kayaking
– Tribal tours
– Mountain trekking
– Rock zone adventure
– Cycling tours
– Trekking with farm stay
– Rappelling in Munnar
– Jungle safaris
– Bamboo rafting

Website: www.thrillophilia.com

Travel Tips for First Time Kerala Tourists:

– Book your tickets at least 3 months in advance to receive bang for your buck.

– Plan your trip during local festive days such as Onam (usually in August/September) and Vishu (April) to experience the culture and tradition of Kerala in full swing. However, most of the tourist attractions will be crowded during this time.

– Kerala gets rain showers during both North East & South West Monsoon. Be prepared for travel delays and of course to get drenched in rain!

– As per Government of India norms only passports are accepted as a form of identification while checking in to hotels.

– Not all local shops & restaurants accept credit card as a form of payment. So make sure you have enough cash in hand.

– Remember the glossary. Most of the cities have alternate names, like Kochi is referred as Cochin or Ernakulam, Alleppey as Allapuzha etc.

– If you are time crunched and find yourself spending a lot of time in traffic within Kochi, hop on to the city water bus service that connects major hubs in the city.

This article was written with inputs from – Soumya Viswanathan. She’s an avid traveler from Bay area who loves to share her travel experience, backpacker destinations and travel reviews to inspire and help other fellow travelers.

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