The state of Kerala, often termed as "God's Own Country," is one of the most enchanting destinations in India. With tranquil backwaters, lush hill stations, golden beaches, and a rich cultural heritage, Kerala presents a variety of experiences for millions of tourists every year. Be it relaxation, adventure, or exploring culture; Kerala tour packages offer an opportunity to experience the magic of this beautiful state. In this article, we will explore some of the best Kerala Tour packages, key attractions, and tips on planning your Kerala vacation.
1. Why Choose Kerala for Your Next Vacation?
Kerala is sure to cast a spell on all travelers - be it in the backwaters of Alappuzha or the cool hill stations of Munnar. Whether it is nature lovers, adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, or someone looking to relax, Kerala is sure to fit that bill. With its rich history and vibrant traditions added to the beautiful landscapes of the state, a Kerala trip is the perfect outing for anyone. Here are a few reasons why Kerala should find a place on your travel bucket list:
Backwaters and Houseboats: Kerala's backwaters are one of its biggest attractions, offering serene and scenic views. Using a traditional houseboat and cruising along the backwaters in Alappuzha, Kumarakom, and Kottayam is an experience that attracts tourists all over the world.
Beaches: Kerala stretches along the Arabian Sea on its coastline with picturesque beaches such as Varkala, Kovalam, and Bekal-ideal places for relaxation, water sports, and viewing fantastic sunsets.
Cool Hill Stations: Kerala houses cool hill stations like Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady, known for their tea plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, and rugged landscapes. These places offer a refreshing break from the plains' scorching heat.
Culture: Kerala boasts the richness of Hindu, Christian, and Muslim cultures. This state is renowned for its classical dances such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, which are part of the festivals that flood the state, including Onam and Vishu.
Ayurveda and Wellness: Ayurveda, the ancient healing science, is born in Kerala, and many of the holiday packages of Kerala include spa and wellness treatments that rejuvenate the body and mind.
2. Popular Kerala Tour Packages
Kerala has packages that would appeal to the interest of all travelers and suit every budget. Some of the popular Kerala packages follow:
Classic Kerala Tour Package
The most popular Kerala package tour comprehensively covers the majority of attractions in the state, including Cochin (Kochi), Munnar, Thekkady, and Alappuzha. The package usually consists of sightseeing tours, houseboat cruises on the backwaters, a visit to the tea gardens, and a wildlife safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady.
Kerala Backwater Tour
It is a must for the nature lovers as it emphasizes on the backwaters of Kerala. It consists of a houseboat stay either in Alappuzha or Kumarakom, in which you can idle away and enjoy the still waters with surrounding peaceful village life as well as with the lush landscape. A Kerala backwater trip is a unique experience and one of the best ways to experience the serene side of Kerala.
Kerala Hill Station Tour
This Kerala hill station tour package is suitable for people who want to have a cool climate and enjoy the scenic beauty. Munnar, Vythiri, and Wayanad hill stations offer cool weather, tea gardens, waterfalls, trekking, and wildlife observation. This would appeal to any nature lover and adventure seeker.
Kerala Wildlife Safari Tour
Some of the other national parks and wildlife sanctuaries here are Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, among others. If one is a wildlife lover then Kerala Tour Package including wildlife can provide opportunities to see tigers, elephants, and several types of bird species while taking pleasure in a lush green environment of the region.
Kerala Honeymoon Packages
Kerala is one of the top honeymoon destinations in India, and a Kerala honeymoon tour package is designed to provide a romantic experience. This package often includes stays in secluded resorts, candlelight dinners, houseboat cruises, and sightseeing trips to romantic spots like Alleppey and Munnar.
3. What’s Included in Kerala Travel Packages?
A typical Kerala vacation package includes:
Accommodation: Kerala tour packages usually accommodate in comfortable hotels, resorts, and houseboats depending upon the theme of the package. The honeymoon package normally accommodates in resorts, whereas backwater packages accommodate in houseboats.
Sightseeing: All the packages include sightseeing tours to the top Kerala attractions such as Fort Kochi, the backwaters of Alappuzha, Munnar tea plantations, and all the historic sites of Kochi.
Transportation: All the Kerala travel packages offer transportation by car, bus, or even private vehicle, based on the package and the type. For houseboats, it is arranged by the houseboat providers.
Meals: Many of the Kerala holiday packages include meals, especially in resorts or houseboats, wherein people can relish authentic Kerala cuisine, including dishes such as appam, puttu, and the famous Kerala Sadya, a traditional feast.
Ayurvedic Spa & Wellness: Some Kerala packages are wellness or honeymoon packages that may include Ayurvedic treatments or spa sessions.
Adventure & Activities: Depending upon the package, there could be trekking, boating, paragliding, and cultural performances like Kathakali dance among the list of inclusions.
4. Kerala Trip Cost: What to Expect
The Kerala trip cost is highly dependent on the type of plan and the number of people going for the trip. It also depends on the period to be visited and the places to be covered during a Kerala trip. Rough Cost Breakdown:
Basic Packages: The normal cost for a basic Kerala trip package can start from INR15,000–INR20,000 per person for a 5-7 day trip, including accommodation in budget hotels and covering local transportation and meal deals.
Mid-Range Packages: Mid-range packages range from INR25,000–INR45,000 per person which may stay in 3-star or 4-star hotels for houseboat cruises or safaris.
Luxury Packages: Luxury packages will be priced higher, above INR50,000–INR1,00,000 or even higher per person, if one goes for luxury resorts with private tours and premium activities for Kerala holiday packages.
Seasonal Variations: Kerala’s peak tourist season runs from October to March, with higher rates for accommodation and activities. During the monsoon (June to September), the rates tend to be lower, but some activities, especially backwater cruises, might be limited.
5. Best Time to Visit Kerala
Kerala is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests:
Winter (October to March): This is the peak tourist season in Kerala, as the climatic condition is pleasant and clear skis. One can enjoy and explore the backwaters, beaches, and hill stations.
Monsoon (June to September): This season is ideal for those who want to see the lush greenery of Kerala. This is also an excellent time to take Ayurvedic treatments, as the rains enhance healing.
Summer (April to June): Summer is quite hot and humid, especially in the plains. But still, it is quite cool and comfortable at the hill stations, like Munnar. This is a great time for a hill station tour.
6. How to Plan Your Kerala Trip
Decide on Your Interests: Will you like to explore the backwaters or go trekking or really enjoy a beach holiday? Deciding what interests you will definitely help you decide the best Kerala travel package for you.
Research and Compare Packages: Different packages have different inclusions, so research and compare them in terms of cost, itinerary, and accommodations before booking.
Plan Your Holiday in Advance: Kerala is one of the most traveled places in India; during peak season, it's always busy. Booking your package in advance ensures that you get the best deals and availability.
Customize Your Package
Most tour operators offer customizable packages so that you can either add or remove destinations and activities based on your preferences.
Conclusion
Kerala is a land of beauty, culture, and diversity, providing you with something for everyone. Kerala is considered the ideal destination for people traveling to rejuvenate and be invigorated with adventure, romantic escapades, or relaxation. From the relaxed backwaters to the misty hill stations, Kerala promises a holiday of a lifetime, one that will leave you rejuvenated and refreshed. So, pack your bags and take off into the journey of a lifetime to discover God's Own Country!
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