No matter what the season, Kerala tour packages are always in demand. It is one of the most popular places to visit in India. And people love it as a family, as well as honeymoon destination. In fact, some people even consider it as a better tourism destination that Goa. This love and appreciation has a lot to do with the natural charm of this state. As well as the kind and welcoming people who make it such a heartwarming place to visit.
In almost all Kerala tour packages that you will come across, people refer to this place as “God’s Own Country”. This is because the state has been truly blessed by nature. It enjoys pleasant weather conditions throughout the year. Thanks to its premiere location at the very bottom of the country. Which gives it an unfettered coastline of over 600kms. It is also known as the “Queen of the Malabar Coast”, because it features the crown of the Western Ghats. Which acts as a natural protection against invaders from the north.
In between these two extremes, the state thrives with a very unique ecosystem. With hills and waterfalls, as well as forests and backwater canals. And thousands of species of animals and plants that are unique to this region. The people of Kerala have always had a deep regard for this natural bounty. And have done their part in ensuring that it lives on in its natural glory.
Fortunately, this has done little to isolate this region from the rest of the world. As this was often one of the first locations where foreign ships landed for trade. In fact, traders from across the world have been coming to Kerala since as early as 3000 BCE. To barter with local merchants for spices, fabrics, and other goods. This includes Arabs, Sumerians and Babylonians. Phoenicians, Greeks, Egyptians, Romans, and even the Chinese. They gave this place another name, the “Spice Garden of India”.
The influences of these interactions are still present in the culture of Kerala. Which is a homogeneous blend of various cultures that live in peace and harmony to this day. This is why the people of this region are always so welcoming to tourists. You can easily find all sorts of activities to entertain all types of visitors. Whether it is a solitary couple on their honeymoon. Or a big family looking for the cheapest vacation possible.
No matter what kind of vacation you are looking for. You will easily find Kerala tour packages with price ranges that suit your needs. But before you decide on which one to splurge on, let us take a look at where you will be going.
For people looking for Kerala tour packages for family, Munnar is the best location. It is a bustling plantation town, that resides in the lap of the peaceful Western Ghats. It became famous after the British took it over as a colonial summer town. Where you could beautiful scenery and amazing wildlife.
Today, the city features all sorts of attractions for visiting tourists. From the majestic Mattupetty Dam, to the scenic Kundala Lake. You also have preserved regions like the Eravikulam National Park. And the Rajamala and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuaries just outside of the town limits. There is even the beautiful Attukad Waterfalls to keep you captivated.
All this and more to explore, without even talking about the peaceful tea gardens, or the city itself. As you can guess, once your visit Munnar, you will find all sorts of amazing things to do. From treks, to jungle safari’s and boat rides, as well as leisurely picnics.
If you think about one image that often personifies Kerala tour packages, it is that of a houseboat. Houseboats or all shapes and sizes, traveling through an intricate network of canals. That is the impression that most people have of Kerala. And this impression comes from Alleppey.
Also known as Alappuzha, this is a coastal city that features lots of waterways and lagoons. The quiet atmosphere and closeness to nature is what attracts people to this region. Which also makes it a must-see destination on most Kerala honeymoon tour packages. You can easily find all types of accommodations on these waterways. From traditional ones with basic wooden construction. To premium and deluxe houseboats with all types of modern amenities and electronics.
Another thing that makes Alleppey famous are the intense rowing races. Also known as Vallam Kali, that happen each year during the harvest season. They are a major attraction and bring thousands of people to Kerala each year. You can enjoy it too, from the comfort of your houseboat. This way, you can enjoy the excitement of the festival. While still remaining safe and comfortable inside your own floating paradise. So, make sure you ask about Alleppey when booking a Kerala tour package for couple.
Kochi is easily one of the oldest port cities in the world. People have been visiting this place for trade and tourism for over 600 years now. You can still find lots of influences of other cultures in the identity of the region. From the food, to the languages spoken, and even religious beliefs. Kochi is a truly cosmopolitan city that retains its native roots.
It also makes for a great location to have on Kerala tour packages. As tourists can see a glimpse of British, Dutch, Portuguese, and other architecture in one spot. While enjoying thoroughly Indian arts like Kathakali and/or Kalaripayattu.
There are also lots of religious places to visit. Irrespective of what religion you believe in, as Kerala has always been a tolerant place. All this and more makes Kochi a vital stop on any Kerala tour packages for family.
For people who love spending their holidays on a beach, Kovalam is the best choice. It features a large crescent shaped sea front, which consists of three beaches. Called the Lighthouse, Hawah, and Samudra. These beaches offer shiny golden sand, clear blue waters. And lots of hotels and shacks to help you relax. You can even enjoy all types of water sports at an affordable price.
If the beach isn’t enough for you, Kovalam also has other places worth exploring. Such as the heritage Halcyon Castle and a Rock Cut Cave Temple. You can indulge in further cultural exploration at the Napier Art Museum & Gallery. Or the Shri Chitra Art Gallery.
If you don’t mind traveling a bit, there is always the beautiful Neyyar Dam and Vellayani Lake. There is even a Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary that hosts lions and elephants. And even a terrifying crocodile park. This makes Kovalam a perfect spot for adventure tourists. If you are one, make sure to look for it when search for Kerala tour packages.
This section of Kerala features the Vembanad Lake. Which is the longest lake in India, and one of the largest freshwater ones in all of Asia. This lake puts Komarakom on the opposide side of Alleppey. Even though both have a similar atmosphere owing to plenty of canals and houseboats.
Just like Alleppey, this area too can be easily explored by water. Although a big portion of this region comes under the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Which hosts various migratory birds like Herons, Siberian Storks, Waterfowls, and Cuckoo’s.
If that’s not your thing, you can always relax at one of the ayurvedic spa’s. And enjoy luxurious pampering sessions based on Indian medicine. These reasons make Kumarakom a great place on any Kerala tour packages for family.
Kerala isn’t just a land of water and beaches. It also has lots of beautiful mountainsides that make up a part of the Western Ghats. And the larger Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The city of Wayanad in this region is a great destination for caffeine lovers. As it features lots of tea, coffee, and even spice plantations. You can visit these places, or just drive around them. Since this area features some of the best mountain roads in the state.
If driving in the mountains makes you stressed, you can always trek through them. As Wayanad features lots of beautiful locations and trails. Including the Ambukuthi Hills, which feature the Edakkal Caves. One of the most recommended places in any Kerala tour packages.
These mountains also provide an important safety corridor for elephants. Who roam this region, along with lots of other animals. Mostly because Wayanad has tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries on all sides. Which makes it a great place to explore for wildlife lovers.
There are lots of other cities and smaller towns as well that you can explore on your Kerala journey. They each offer unique places to visit, food to eat, and people to meet. It is up to you to pick the ones you like, and fit in your budget. Since, there is a lot to explore. And people often get confused on which Kerala tour packages to pick from. All we can suggest is find the Kerala tour packages with price discounts available. And make sure they have all the locations you want to see. The rest you can always improvise on spot.
In addition to all the wildlife reserves, and other tourist spots. Kerala is also home to a lot of places of religious significance. Partly due to its history of being one of the first places in the country where foreigners landed. Due to such a rich cultural history that goes so far back. You can find some of the oldest religious monuments in this part of the country. Here are some of them you can explore.
St. Francis Church, Kochi: People believe this to be the oldest church in India. It was build in 1503, and stands to this day. The famous Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, was in fact buried at this location for 14 years.
Paradesi Synagogue, Kochi: Just like the church, this is the oldest surviving synagogue in the country. Not just the country, but in all the commonwealth nations. People believe the structure was initially built around the 15th century. And survives to this day.
Cheraman Juma Mosque, Trissur: Just like the other buildings, this is one of the oldest surviving religious structures for Muslims in the country. It was initially built around 629CE. Which makes it the oldest mosque still in use in the entire Indian subcontinent.
Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram: While it may not be the oldest temple. It still holds a record. A record of being the richest place of worship in the world. Even richer than the Vatican. The best time to visit it is during the Laksha Deepam festival that happens every 6 years. Where prayers happen for 56 days straight. And at the end, 1 lakh diyas are lit around the temple. This makes for a truly spectacular view.
Now that you’ve learned about all the places you can visit. It is time for us to explore the best times to see them. Kerala isn’t like any other tourist destination. It is a truly tropical destination. With hot and humid weather during the summers, a heavy monsoon, and a pleasant winter. This makes it a bit obvious which choice would be the best. But, you can still find value in other times of the year. Let us see what that can be.
Winters: As you can guess, September to March is the best time to visit Kerala. The winters are mostly calm and cool. With no humidity, heat, or rain to ruin the fun. This is the perfect time to explore the beaches, wildlife, and other touristy things. It can also be the most crowded and expensive time to visit the region.
Summers: Summer is the off-season for most of the Kerala tourism industry. The heat is high in the 40’s. And beaches, shacks, and other spots are pretty deserted. Most people prefer visiting the hill stations during this time. You will also find the cheapest accommodations during this time.
Monsoons: June to August is the monsoon season. As expected, most of the state is sort of deserted during this time. Not a lot of people like the idea of exploring the beaches or backwaters during heavy rains. But it can make for a romantic atmosphere. For newlywed couples on their honeymoons. It is also a good time to get pampered in one of the ayurvedic resorts. As you can rest inside all day listening to the lovely sounds of rain.
Depending on what season you pick, you will get different prices and facilities. For peak season travelers, we suggest making your bookings ahead of time. As pricing and availability can shift rapidly. For other seasons, you might even find free upgrades and heavy discounts. So, make sure you do your research before finalizing your Kerala tour packages.
Like most places in the country, a flight is probably your best option when first reaching Kerala. Not just because they are the cheapest alternative for a couple or family. But also, because Kerala has 4 international airports to pick from. There are three other airports currently under construction to help divide this load.
You can find flights from most major cities in India, and abroad. If you don’t like that idea though, you can always switch to trains. Kerala has 18 major railway stations that host trains from all over the country. There are up to 200 stations in total that provide great connectivity to even the remote areas. As well as a metro system in Kochi city for urban travel. With the kind of weather and scenery that Kerala enjoys, trains are a great way to travel and explore.
For people who like to take the wheel in their own hands, literally. You can reach Kerala by road, through Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. There are three main highways that connect the state to the rest of the country. You can drive through them in your own car, or take a taxi/bus. Although considering the long distances between neighboring states and cities. Taking a taxi would be quite expensive.
Of course, once you reach your destination, you are sure to fall in love with this place. It has an ambiance and atmosphere unlike any other place in the country. And it is only matched by the lovely people and the delicious food that they offer. So, don’t waste any more time. And start booking your Kerala tour packages today.
2N Munnar - 1N Thekkady - 1N Alleppey - 2N Kovalam
Thoughtful thoughts to your inbox
