south kerala tour packages

south kerala tour packages

  • Group Size 12 Peoples

Overview

Welcome to God’s Own Country! Our carefully crafted 10-day South Kerala tour takes you through the enchanting backwaters, pristine beaches, and lush hills of India’s tropical paradise. Perfect for UK travellers seeking an authentic Indian experience, this journey combines luxury and adventure with deep cultural immersion. From gliding through serene backwaters on traditional houseboats to exploring spice plantations in the Western Ghats, every day brings new discoveries. Experience the warm hospitality of Kerala, savour mouth-watering local cuisine, and unwind with traditional Ayurvedic treatments. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the Arabian Sea in Kovalam or discovering the colonial charm of Fort Kochi, this tour promises memories to last a lifetime.

Key Information

  • Duration: 10 Days, 9 Nights

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March

  • Tour Grade: Easy to Moderate

  • Starting Point: Kochi International Airport

  • Ending Point: Trivandrum International Airport

  • Group Size: 2-12 persons

  • Language: English-speaking guide

Highlights

  • Luxury houseboat cruise in Alleppey
  • Historic Fort Kochi heritage walk
  • Pristine Kovalam beach retreat
  • Traditional Kerala cooking class
  • Periyar wildlife sanctuary visit
  • Ancient temples exploration
  • Ayurvedic spa experience
  • Tea plantation tours
  • Cultural performance viewing
  • Local market adventures

Included/Excluded

  • Airport transfers in private AC vehicle
  • 9 nights accommodation in handpicked hotels
  • Daily breakfast and selected meals
  • English-speaking professional guide
  • All sightseeing and entrance fees
  • Houseboat cruise with meals
  • Cultural performance tickets
  • Cooking class experience
  • Ayurvedic massage session
  • All applicable taxes
  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Camera fees at monuments
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Meals not mentioned
  • Visa fees
  • Optional activities

Step into Kerala's cultural heart as you arrive in Kochi, where centuries of trade have left an indelible mark on the cityscape. The aromatic breeze carries hints of spices as you walk through the historic streets, where Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial architecture stands alongside ancient Chinese fishing nets. Your journey begins with a warm welcome at the airport and a comfortable transfer to your boutique heritage hotel in Fort Kochi. Activities:

  • Airport pickup and transfer
  • Evening orientation walk
  • Welcome dinner at historic spice restaurant
Accommodation: Heritage hotel in Fort Kochi Dining: Welcome dinner featuring Kerala specialties

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Fort Kochi as you wander through its charming streets. Watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action as fishermen demonstrate their centuries-old technique. The aroma of fresh seafood and spices fills the air as you explore the vibrant spice market. In the evening, witness the mesmerising Kathakali performance, where ancient stories come alive through elaborate costumes and expressive dance. Activities:

  • Morning visit to Chinese fishing nets
  • St. Francis Church exploration
  • Spice market tour with expert guide
  • Jewish Synagogue visit
  • Evening Kathakali performance
Accommodation: Heritage hotel in Fort Kochi Dining:
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Lunch at historic Jewish Quarter café
  • Dinner at seafood specialty restaurant

Journey into the Western Ghats to reach Munnar, where endless carpets of tea plantations paint the hills in shades of green. The cool mountain air carries the fresh scent of tea leaves as you wind through the scenic roads. Stop at waterfalls and viewpoints along the way, each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Activities:

  • Scenic drive to Munnar
  • Tea plantation visit
  • Photo stops at waterfalls
  • Spice garden tour
  • Tea museum visit
Accommodation: Mountain resort in Munnar Dining:
  • Breakfast at Fort Kochi
  • Packed lunch for journey
  • Traditional Kerala dinner at resort

Wake up to misty mountains and the gentle sounds of nature. Today is about discovering the natural beauty and tea culture of Munnar. Learn about tea processing, try your hand at tea picking, and enjoy stunning views from Top Station, the region's highest viewpoint. Activities:

  • Tea picking experience
  • Top Station visit
  • Mattupetty Dam
  • Echo Point exploration
  • Evening nature walk
Accommodation: Mountain resort in Munnar Dining:
  • Breakfast at resort
  • Picnic lunch at tea estate
  • BBQ dinner at resort

Travel to Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The journey takes you through cardamom plantations and spice gardens, offering insights into Kerala's spice trading heritage. The evening brings you close to nature with a guided night walk in the sanctuary buffer zone. Activities:

  • Morning drive to Thekkady
  • Spice plantation tour
  • Kalaripayattu martial arts show
  • Evening jungle walk
  • Spice shopping
Accommodation: Wildlife resort in Thekkady Dining:
  • Breakfast at Munnar
  • Lunch at spice garden restaurant
  • Dinner at resort

Start your day with an early morning boat ride on Periyar Lake, watching for wild elephants, deer, and numerous bird species. The afternoon brings exciting tribal village visits and a chance to learn traditional cooking methods. Activities:

  • Early morning boat safari
  • Tribal village visit
  • Cooking demonstration
  • Elephant observation
  • Green Walk program
Accommodation: Wildlife resort in Thekkady Dining:
  • Breakfast at resort
  • Traditional tribal lunch
  • Interactive cooking dinner

Journey to Alleppey, known as the 'Venice of the East'. Board your private houseboat for an unforgettable overnight experience on Kerala's famous backwaters. Watch local life unfold along the waterways as your skilled crew navigates through narrow canals. Activities:

  • Drive to Alleppey
  • Houseboat check-in
  • Backwater cruise
  • Village walks
  • Sunset viewing
Accommodation: Premium houseboat Dining:
  • Breakfast at Thekkady
  • Fresh seafood lunch on board
  • Traditional Kerala dinner on houseboat

After a peaceful morning on the backwaters, head to the serene Marari Beach. This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of relaxation and local fishing village experience. Spend your afternoon learning traditional fishing methods or enjoying an Ayurvedic massage. Activities:

  • Morning backwater cruise
  • Transfer to Marari
  • Ayurvedic treatment
  • Fishing village walk
  • Sunset beach time
Accommodation: Beach resort in Marari Dining:
  • Breakfast on houseboat
  • Fresh catch lunch
  • Beachside dinner

Travel to Kovalam, famous for its lighthouse beach and crescent-shaped shores. The day is yours to relax, try water sports, or explore the local markets. End your day with a sunset cruise along the Arabian Sea. Activities:

  • Morning drive to Kovalam
  • Beach relaxation
  • Optional water sports
  • Lighthouse visit
  • Sunset cruise
Accommodation: Beach resort in Kovalam Dining:
  • Breakfast at Marari
  • Beachside lunch
  • Farewell dinner at resort

Your final morning is free for last-minute shopping or beach walks before transferring to Trivandrum International Airport. Visit the historic Padmanabhaswamy Temple (if time permits) en route to the airport. Activities:

  • Morning at leisure
  • Optional temple visit
  • Airport transfer
  • Souvenir shopping
Dining:
  • Breakfast at resort
  • Light lunch (if time permits)

Frequently Asked Questions

October to March offers the most pleasant weather, with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures. The peak season is December to February.

Kerala has one of India's highest literacy rates and is known for its friendly locals. Basic precautions as with any travel destination are advised.

While Kerala cuisine can be spicy, restaurants cater to various preferences. Our guides can help you order according to your spice tolerance.

Consult your GP at least 6-8 weeks before travel. Standard vaccinations like Hepatitis A and typhoid, and routine immunisations are typically recommended for India.

Our premium houseboats feature air-conditioned bedrooms, private bathrooms, a dedicated chef, and a crew. All meals and activities during your stay are included.

We recommend drinking only bottled water, which is readily available. Hotels provide complimentary water daily, and your guide will ensure you have access to safe drinking water.

We recommend exchanging money at airport exchanges or authorised money changers. Major hotels also offer exchange services. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas.

Kerala experiences monsoon from June to September. While rainfall can affect some activities, this period offers unique experiences like Ayurvedic treatments and lush green landscapes at reduced rates.

Light, breathable cotton clothing is ideal. For temple visits, shoulders and knees should be covered. Pack a light jumper for hill stations and air-conditioned spaces.

Kerala offers abundant vegetarian options, including traditional dishes like sambar, thoran, and avial. All dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Most days include moderate walking through historic sites, nature trails, and villages. Activities can be adjusted to suit your comfort level, with vehicle support available.

Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, offering authentic treatments using traditional herbs and techniques. Our package includes a consultation with certified practitioners.

Yes, we can arrange additional nights at any destination. Popular extensions include longer beach stays in Kovalam or extra nights in the backwaters.

From misty tea plantations to vibrant festivals, Kerala offers countless photo opportunities. Some temples restrict photography, and your guide will advise accordingly.

Your tour guide can arrange optional activities during the tour. We recommend pre-booking popular experiences like Kathakali shows or special Ayurvedic treatments.

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