Kerala Tours & Trips
Ever wondered why they call Kerala "God's Own Country"? You'll cruise backwaters on those traditional houseboats, tour tea plantations in Munnar's hills, watch Kathakali dancers doing their thing, spot elephants in Periyar, try bamboo rafting, explore Fort Kochi's Portuguese and Dutch bits, relax on Kovalam's beaches, and basically forget what stress feels like. Kerala does that to you.
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Mathew • traveled in October, 2024
Amazing trip with the comfortable accommodation. it was an great experience for me. South India part of India beautiful must visit destination.
Kerala Tour - 8 Days - D
Dan • traveled in December
I had a great time in Kerala. I loved the scenery, the culture, and most of all, the people. Our driver, Mr. Sibu, was terrific. I'd love to come back to Kerala and have him as my driver again. The guides in Kochi and Munnar were also great—they were knowledgeable and flexible. We weren't too happy with the initial boat we were given for our Backwater tour, but the company quickly changed us to another boat, which was great. The hotels were all good and the staff were very helpful. All in all, it was a wonderful experience.
Amazing Kerala Tour from Cochin - 6 Days - J
JillOsterbery • traveled in April
"Himanshu was brilliant, nothing was too much trouble, we contacted him a few times during the trip with questions and got reply’s very quickly. Our driver Sajan was great too always on time, very safe driver and very helpful Every resort was wonderful, a holiday of a life time and as we are both in our 70’s that really says how pleased we are."
God's Own Country 'Kerala'
Table of contents
- The best Kerala tour packages
- Travel Kerala your way
- Best tour companies for Kerala tours
- Discover Kerala tours for every budget
- Kerala tours for every type of group
- Top Kerala travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Kerala
- Contact our Kerala travel experts
- What our customers ask about Kerala Tours & Trips
The best Kerala tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaKerala travel expert at TourRadar
Kerala Tour - 8 Days
36 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was a great way to see Kerala for the first time and experience the culture. Our driver and accommodation was lovely.”
Julia, traveled in November
Kerala's treasures await, from Fort Kochi's Chinese fishing nets to Munnar's tea plantations. Wildlife thrives at Periyar Sanctuary, while traditional houseboats glide through Alleppey's backwaters. The tour features the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, comfortable accommodations, and authentic local experiences.
Duration 8 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Eravikulam National Park, Periyar National Park, Thekkady, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kottayam Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Operator Golden Triangle India Tours From $3,225
60% Off- NZ$1,290You save $1,935
Best of Kerala
21 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We enjoyed our holiday to the fullest. The stunning tea estates in Munnar were really liked.”
ElizabethPott, traveled in March
Kerala's diversity shines from Fort Kochi's historic churches to Munnar's sprawling tea plantations and spice gardens. Wildlife viewing at Periyar, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary visits, and traditional kettuvallam houseboats in Alleppey's backwaters create unforgettable memories.
Duration 8 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, Alleppey Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator GeTS Holidays From $3,149
70% Off- NZ$945You save $2,204
Walking in Kerala
16 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I don't think i could fault any part of it. I think the sign of a good holiday is that you'd like to stay for longer.”
Heather, traveled in March
Kerala's landscape ranges from Munnar's tea plantations to Periyar's wildlife sanctuary. Scale Meesapulimala Peak, camp in Silent Valley, cruise Vembanad Lake by houseboat, and visit traditional villages. Includes authentic homestays and local cultural experiences.
Duration 11 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Meesapulimala, Thekkady, Periyar National Park, Alleppey Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Explore! From
70% Off- NZ$2,220
Quick Cochin Munnar Thekkady Alleppy Kovalam 8 Days Tour
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The sights and sounds of nature were breathtaking, and the local people were warm and welcoming.”
Grayson, traveled in September
Kerala's backwaters beckon on this 8-day tour costing approx. $230 per day. Traditional houseboats cruise Alleppey's waters, while Eravikulam National Park offers treks in Munnar. Elephant spotting during Periyar Lake boat rides and Kovalam's pristine beaches complement historic Kochi's Chinese fishing nets.
Duration 8 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom, Alleppey, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, Russian Operator Real viaggi india From $4,141
50% Off- NZ$2,070You save $2,070
Amazing Kerala Tour from Cochin - 6 Days
31 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The houseboat stay in Alleppey was a dream, and exploring the spice plantations in Thekkady was both educational and delightful.”
Anjali, traveled in November
Kerala's cultural tapestry includes Fort Immanuel, ancient Chinese fishing nets, and Mattupetty Dam. An overnight houseboat stay on Vembanad Lake, spice plantation tours in Thekkady, and traditional Kathakali performances complement 3-star accommodations.
Duration 6 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Memorable India Journeys From $988
10% Off- NZ$889You save $99
Exotic Kerala Tour (Coconut Holiday Of India)
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was an excellent experience with a well planned itinerary and excellent tour.”
Anu, traveled in August
Traditional houseboats float through Kerala's backwaters at Alleppey, while Eravikulam National Park in Munnar offers natural wonders. Wildlife spotting at Periyar Reserve adds excitement. Sagara Beach Resort in Kovalam provides comfort, complemented by Vembanad Lake cruises and visits to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Duration 9 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Periyar National Park, Kumarakom, Alleppey, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator World Travel Experiences From $3,138
50% Off- NZ$1,569You save $1,569
Best of Kerala Tour
51 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Cochin history and culture were fascinating, and the houseboat ride in Alleppey was just magical.”
Thompson, traveled in January
Kerala's varied terrain stretches from coastal Cochin to Munnar's highlands. Traditional houseboat stays in Alleppey, wildlife encounters at Periyar Sanctuary, and cultural performances create lasting memories. Rated 4.7/5 by travelers.
Duration 8 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Thekkady, Periyar National Park, Alleppey, Kumarakom Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Operator Panda Experiences From
50% Off- NZ$4,091
Romantic Kerala Tour
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Overall beautiful tour and would recommend it. Nishad was also instrumental in helping my partner get her phone back.”
Thomas, traveled in October
Kerala showcases its riches from Kochi's Dutch Palace to Vembanad Lake houseboats. Munnar's tea estates, Periyar's wildlife, and Kumarakom's bird sanctuary enchant visitors staying at comfortable hotels like Hotel Manor and Hotel Las Palmas.
Duration 7 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Periyar National Park, Kumarakom, Alleppey Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator World Travel Experiences From $2,714
50% Off- NZ$1,357You save $1,357
The best of Kerala in 9 days with idyllic houseboat and relax
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The sunset at the rice fields was mesmerizing. We can say we recommend this tour operator to everyone who would like to visit India, especially Kerala.”
Meadows, traveled in March
Kerala reveals its charm from Kochi's Chinese fishing nets to Munnar's misty tea plantations. Luxury houseboats cruise through Alleppey, wildlife roams Periyar Sanctuary, and Kovalam offers beachside serenity. Traditional Kathakali performances enhance cultural immersion.
Duration 9 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Periyar National Park, Alleppey, Kovalam Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Payless tours india From $2,570
50% Off- NZ$1,285You save $1,285
A Taste of Southern India - Temples and Tea Plantations
18 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The excellent places we were taken to eat. Houseboat.”
Emma, traveled in December
Kerala's diversity spans from coastal Kochi to inland spice gardens. Tour the 16th-century Mattancherry Palace, wander Munnar's tea estates, and cruise traditional houseboats through backwaters. Savor authentic cuisine from street food to homecooked Keralan specialties.
Duration 9 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Thekkady, Periyar National Park Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Explore! From $2,840
26% Off- NZ$2,090You save $750
Travel Kerala your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for Kerala tours
Both agencies get solid feedback from their India travelers, though in slightly different ways. Swastik India Journeys shines with their team - guides and drivers Rashid and Matthew earn special mentions from customers who appreciate their local knowledge and professionalism. The houseboats are a real highlight too, with travelers telling us they felt transported to a completely different world on the water. World Travel Experiences does well on the logistics side - their tours run smoothly and the details are handled nicely. Their driver NOUFEL stands out; quite a few travelers went out of their way to praise his helpful attitude and reliability. That said, it's worth noting that some guests mentioned differences between what was promised and what actually happened on their tours. While this wasn't a major issue, you'll want to carefully read through the day-by-day plan before booking. Both companies seem reliable overall for India travel, just with different strong points. Swastik excels at the experience and personal touches, while World Travel focuses on keeping everything organized and running well. The key is matching what matters most to you - whether that's having exceptional guides or knowing every detail is planned perfectly.
Discover Kerala tours for every budget
Kerala tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Kerala travel itineraries to fit your plans
Demographics
Solo Travelers184 tours- Couples184 tours
- Seniors (50+)64 tours
Best time to visit Kerala
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter in Kerala offers ideal exploration conditions with clear visibility and comfortable temperatures. Our winter tours typically run between 5-14 days, mixing cultural visits with nature experiences. The morning light at Munnar's tea fields is particularly good for photos, and our travelers often mention this as a highlight. A really popular route starts in Kochi with an evening of traditional Kathakali performances before heading to Thekkady's spice gardens - you'll get hands-on experience with cardamom, pepper, vanilla and other local spices. Wildlife watching at Periyar Lake is excellent this time of year; our groups regularly spot elephants, wild boar and lots of different birds. The houseboats in Alleppey make cozy overnight stops, and our guests love the peaceful atmosphere and authentic Kerala dishes served right on board.
- 183 tours
- 191 tours
- popular 192 tours
- Spring 2026
Spring sees pleasant temperatures perfect for outdoor activities in Kerala. Our travelers particularly enjoy morning walks through Munnar's tea estates, often combining these with visits to spot Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park. One of our most requested spring routes pairs bamboo rafting adventures in Periyar with local cultural shows in Thekkady. Many guests choose tours that include time at Mattupetty Dam and afternoon visits to working spice farms. The traditional houseboats remain a favorite - you'll see daily village life along the backwaters while eating fresh local food prepared in the boat's kitchen.
- popular 192 tours
- 186 tours
- 180 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer tours work around Kerala's warmth with early starts and relaxed afternoons. Our groups explore Fort Kochi's heritage areas in the cooler morning hours, then visit the spice markets when their aromas are strongest. A popular summer route includes Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where early boat rides give you the best chance to spot animals. Many visitors pick tours with stays in Munnar, where the higher elevation keeps things comfortable. The backwater trips work well year-round - our guests often mention how much they enjoy the cooling breezes while cruising Alleppey's waterways.
- popular 179 tours
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- 178 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Autumn shows Kerala at its greenest, and our tours make the most of the post-monsoon landscape. Walking through Thekkady's renewed spice gardens and seeing tea plantations in rich autumn colors are particular favorites among our guests. One well-planned route includes Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary visits when migratory birds start arriving in November. Another popular autumn option mixes cultural sites in Kochi with beach time in Kovalam. The backwater cruises really shine this season - our travelers often tell us how much they enjoy watching the sun set over calm waters while eating fresh Kerala dishes.
- popular 178 tours
- 155 tours
- 153 tours
Contact our Kerala travel experts
Isabeau
Expert in Kerala at TourRadar
Isabeau is one of our seasoned Kerala Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Kerala tours answered!
- Choose from 220+ Kerala tours
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Call us
+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Kerala Tours & Trips
How can I best experience Kerala's famous backwaters?
You'll love Kerala's network of peaceful canals lakes and lagoons - it's really something special. The best way to soak it all in is on a traditional houseboat called a Kettuvallam they're made from bamboo and coir and give you this amazing rustic yet comfortable experience. If you're looking for something specific the "Backwaters of Kerala" tour (ID 143839) lets you stay on a houseboat in Alleppey and check out those iconic Chinese Fishing Nets in Cochin. Want to get more active? Try kayaking or canoeing through the narrow canals you'll get really close to local life that way. There's this great "Kerala Cycling Holidays" tour (ID 155263) where you can canoe through Kumarakom's quiet backwater lanes and see how rural communities live.
Where should I go in Kerala for both nature and culture?
Head to Munnar - it's this gorgeous hill station in the Western Ghats where you'll find endless tea plantations rolling hills and waterfalls. You can spot the rare Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park and learn all about tea making at the Tata Tea Museum. The "Women Special Kerala Tour" (ID 187614) takes you on scenic drives to waterfalls and includes that museum visit. Then there's Thekkady home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can tour spice plantations and take boat rides on Periyar Lake - keep your eyes peeled for elephants deer and all sorts of birds. Want to try spotting tigers? The "Kerala Tour - 8 Days" (ID 186599) includes that possibility at Periyar.
What local food should I try in Kerala and where can I find the best dishes?
Kerala's food is incredible - you've got to try a "Sadya" it's this amazing traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. Look out for "Karimeen Pollichathu" too it's fish wrapped in banana leaf and baked with loads of flavor. For breakfast try "Appam" with stew or "Puttu and Kadala Curry" - it's a steamed rice cake with chickpea curry that'll keep you going all morning. The best places to find authentic versions are local restaurants and homestays. If you're interested in cooking there's this great tour "A Taste of Southern India" (ID 234747) where you can learn to make dosas in Ernakulam.
Which hidden gems in Kerala should I consider visiting?
You might not have heard of Wayanad but this northern hill station has India's largest earth dam Banasura Sagar and the fascinating Pazhassi Raja Tomb and Museum. The "Kerala 10 Days Tour" (ID 187732) includes that impressive dam visit. Then there's Vagamon with its peaceful meadows and pine forests perfect if you want to escape the crowds. Birdwatchers should definitely check out Kumarakom on Vembanad Lake you'll see tons of migratory birds there. The "Kerala Cycling Holidays" tour (ID 155263) lets you stay in Kumarakom and visit the Bird Sanctuary. These spots are perfect if you want to experience Kerala away from the usual tourist track.