goa and kerala itinerary
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Group Size 12 Peoples
Overview
Welcome to an unforgettable journey through India’s most enchanting coastal destinations – Goa and Kerala. This carefully crafted 10-day adventure combines the laid-back charm of Goa’s beaches with Kerala’s serene backwaters, creating the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. As UK travellers, you’ll experience the warmth of Indian hospitality while discovering ancient Portuguese churches, spice plantations, and pristine beaches that seem straight out of a postcard.
Our journey begins in Goa, where Portuguese heritage meets Indian culture, creating a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in India. Then, we’ll venture south to Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” where you’ll glide through peaceful backwaters on traditional houseboats and unwind in ancient ayurvedic spas. This itinerary balances must-see attractions with hidden gems, ensuring you experience the authentic essence of South India while enjoying comfortable accommodations and safe travel arrangements suitable for UK visitors.
Key Information
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Best Time to Visit: October to March
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Duration: 10 days
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Starting Point: Goa International Airport
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Ending Point: Trivandrum International Airport
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Suitable For: Couples, families, and small groups
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Physical Level: Easy to moderate
Highlights
- Sunset sailing on Goa's Arabian Sea
- Heritage walks in Old Goa
- Authentic cooking class in a Goan home
- Overnight houseboat in Kerala backwaters
- Tea plantation tour in Munnar
- Traditional Kathakali dance performance
- Ayurvedic spa experience
- Fresh seafood feast on Kovalam Beach
Included/Excluded
Picture yourself arriving at Goa's sun-kissed shores, where the air is filled with the scent of sea salt and spices. Your first day begins with a warm welcome at a boutique beach resort in North Goa. As the afternoon unfolds, you'll stroll along the vibrant Baga Beach, watching local fishermen bring in their daily catch while the sun paints the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks. Activities:
- Airport pickup and transfer to hotel
- Evening beach walk
- Welcome dinner at a beachfront restaurant
- Alila Diwa Goa or similar (5-star beach resort)
- Welcome dinner at Thalassa (Greek-inspired seafood)
- Sunset drinks at Antares Beach Club
Start your day exploring the magnificent Portuguese heritage of Old Goa. Walking through this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like stepping back in time. Marvel at the stunning Basilica of Bom Jesus, home to the remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, venture into a fragrant spice plantation, where you'll learn about the spices that made Goa a coveted trading port. Activities:
- Morning visit to Basilica of Bom Jesus
- Tour of Se Cathedral
- Spice plantation tour with traditional Goan lunch
- Evening cooking class with local family
- Alila Diwa Goa or similar
- Traditional Goan lunch at spice plantation
- Home-cooked dinner during cooking class
Today, discover the quieter, more serene South Goa. Begin at the pristine Palolem Beach, where curved bay meets palm forests. Watch dolphins play in the distance while local fishermen sort their morning catch. Later, explore the colonial mansions of Chandor, offering a glimpse into Goa's aristocratic past. Activities:
- Morning yoga on Palolem Beach
- Dolphin spotting boat trip
- Visit to Chandor Portuguese mansions
- Sunset at Colva Beach
- Alila Diwa Goa or similar
- Breakfast at Martin's Corner (famous Goan restaurant)
- Seafood dinner at Peninsula Restaurant
Bid farewell to Goa as you fly to Kochi, Kerala's historic spice trading port. Arrive in Fort Kochi, where Chinese fishing nets line the shore and colonial buildings tell tales of Dutch, Portuguese, and British traders. Your evening features a mesmerising Kathakali dance performance. Activities:
- Morning flight to Kochi
- Evening walk along Marine Drive
- Traditional Kathakali performance
- Visit to Chinese fishing nets at sunset
- Brunton Boatyard or similar (heritage hotel)
- Lunch at historic Kashi Art Café
- Dinner at Rice Boat restaurant
Wake up to the sounds of Kerala's coastal city. Today's walking tour takes you through the historic Jewish Quarter, featuring the 16th-century synagogue and antique shops. Visit St. Francis Church, India's oldest European church, and explore the Dutch Palace with its stunning murals. Activities:
- Jewish Synagogue visit
- Mattancherry Palace tour
- Art gallery visits in Jew Town
- Evening harbour cruise
- Brunton Boatyard or similar
- Traditional Kerala breakfast at hotel
- Seafood dinner at Fort House Restaurant
Journey into Kerala's emerald hills to reach Munnar, where tea plantations carpet the mountains. The drive itself is spectacular, winding through cardamom forests and waterfalls. Visit a tea factory to learn about tea processing and taste some of India's finest brews. Activities:
- Scenic drive to Munnar
- Tea factory tour and tasting
- Visit to Eravikulam National Park
- Evening tea plantation walk
- Windermere Estate or similar (plantation resort)
- Packed lunch for journey
- Traditional Kerala dinner at resort
Start early to catch the morning mist rolling over the tea hills. Visit the Tea Museum to understand the region's colonial history, then trek through cardamom plantations. The afternoon includes a visit to a local market and the chance to spot rare Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park. Activities:
- Tea Museum visit
- Soft trek through plantations
- Local market exploration
- Visit to Mattupetty Dam
- Windermere Estate or similar
- Picnic lunch in tea gardens
- BBQ dinner at resort
Drive to Alleppey, known as the 'Venice of the East'. Board your private houseboat, a converted rice barge with all modern comforts. Cruise through the peaceful backwaters, watching local life unfold along the shores. Activities:
- Drive to Alleppey
- Houseboat check-in
- Backwater cruise
- Village walk during boat stops
- Premium houseboat
- Fresh seafood lunch on board
- Traditional Kerala dinner on houseboat
After breakfast on the houseboat, drive to Kovalam. This crescent-shaped beach is perfect for your final days of relaxation. Enjoy an ayurvedic massage and watch local fishermen bring in their catch at sunset. Activities:
- Morning backwater cruise
- Drive to Kovalam
- Ayurvedic spa treatment
- Beach time and swimming
- The Leela Kovalam or similar (beach resort)
- Lunch at German Bakery
- Beachfront dinner at hotel
Enjoy a final morning at leisure. Perhaps take a sunrise walk on the beach or enjoy a last ayurvedic treatment before your departure. Transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your flight. Activities:
- Morning at leisure
- Optional: Last-minute shopping
- Airport transfer
- Breakfast at hotel
- Light lunch (if time permits)
Frequently Asked Questions
October to March offers the most pleasant weather. Avoid June to September (monsoon season) when heavy rains can affect travel plans.
Yes, UK citizens need an e-Visa. Apply online at least 4 days before travel. The process is straightforward and usually takes 2-3 working days.
Stick to bottled water, which we provide throughout the tour. All our recommended restaurants use filtered water for ice and food preparation.
Both regions offer varied cuisine. While spicy options are available, many dishes are mild. Our guides can help you choose according to your preference.
Most activities are gentle. The tour involves some walking on uneven surfaces and steps at historical sites. Optional activities can be adjusted to your comfort level.
Private air-conditioned cabin, en-suite bathroom, all meals, crew service, and guided village visits during stops.
Yes, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Your guide will help with any language barriers in local situations.
Shoulders and knees should be covered. We provide appropriate coverings when needed. Shoes must be removed at temples.
 Budget £200-300 per week for additional meals, shopping, and personal expenses, excluding optional activities.
All hotels offer WiFi. Connection speeds vary. We recommend downloading maps and essential apps before travel.
India uses 230V, 50Hz power. Bring a Type C or D adapter. Most hotels provide adaptors suitable for UK plugs.
Yes, in tourist areas. Inform your bank about travel plans. We recommend carrying some cash for local markets.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Guide £5-10 per day, drivers £3-5 per day, hotels £1-2 per day for housekeeping.
Yes, your guide can arrange additional activities. Book spa treatments and specialized tours 24 hours in advance.
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory. Ensure it covers medical evacuation and trip cancellation.
Yes we have other Related tour packages like : Mumbai Holiday Package , 5 star goa holiday packages