Kerala’s best tours give you the real essence of India’s tropical southwest. Standing out is the Flavors of North Kerala tour – it packs genuine cultural encounters and natural wonders into each day. The Bamboo Village experience in Wayanad lets you pedal through unspoiled countryside and connect with local families. For active travelers, kayaking through Kerala’s backwater villages offers a peaceful alternative to the popular houseboats. Each village stop reveals authentic daily life away from tourist crowds.
My favorite among these is the Wayanad Experiential Tour – it perfectly balances outdoor adventure with meaningful cultural stops. The traditional houseboat tours, while more common, still deliver an unforgettable glimpse of Kerala’s famous waterways.
Let’s explore the top-rated Kerala tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
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Kerala offers a diverse range of tours, including experiential tours highlighting the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique local experiences.
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Accommodation options such as treehouses and houseboats provide immersive and luxurious experiences, allowing travelers to fully embrace Kerala’s scenic landscapes.
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Kerala’s backwater tours offer the opportunity to explore the picturesque canals and waterways, with activities like kayaking and traditional boat cruises.
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Tour operators provide comprehensive packages that cover transportation, entrance fees, and meals, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free travel experience.
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Travelers should consider factors like accessibility, medical conditions, and personal preferences when selecting the best Kerala tours to suit their needs.
Flavors of North Kerala – Malabar Experiential Tour Package
What does the Flavors of North Kerala – Malabar Experiential Tour Package entail? This custom 10-day tour offers an immersive experience exploring the Malabar region and northern Kerala.
Travelers can collaborate with the tour company to create an itinerary based on their time, budget, and interests. Highlights may include a bird sanctuary in mangrove forests, remote mountain caves with stone-age carvings, an overnight houseboat cruise on the Valiyaparamba backwaters, and a tour of the French colonial heritage in Mahe.
The tour features pickup and drop-off from Kannur Airport, air-conditioned transportation, a storyteller service, and Tyndis curated experiences. Entrance fees, accommodation, and transportation charges are all included, costing from $616.36 per person.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is recommended for most travelers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Reviewers have given this tour a remarkable 4.9 out of 5 overall rating.
Read our full review: Flavors of North Kerala – Malabar Experiential Tour Package Review
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Bamboo Village & Cycling Tour in Wayanad
Embarking on the Bamboo Village & Cycling Tour in Wayanad offers an immersive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes. Priced at $57.82 per person, this 6-hour excursion whisks visitors away to the Thrikkaipetta Bamboo Village, where they can witness skilled artisans crafting intricate bamboo products.
Guests then indulge in a traditional Kerala Sadhya lunch served on a banana leaf in a local home, seeing the culinary delights of the region.
The tour’s highlight is the afternoon cycling adventure through the scenic countryside, showcasing plains, fields, and cultural sites. Travelers can interact with tribal communities and engage in traditional activities, creating a truly memorable experience.
Included in the tour are transportation, an experienced guide, bicycle rental, and entrance fees, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free excursion. With a convenient reserve now and pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Bamboo Village & Cycling Tour in Wayanad is an enticing opportunity to discover the heart of Kerala.
Read our full review: Bamboo Village & Cycling Tour in Wayanad Review
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Tyndis Wayanad Experiential Tour
The Tyndis Wayanad Experiential Tour offers an immersive journey into the rural life and cultural heritage of the Wayanad region in Kerala. This private tour allows travelers to explore the area’s villages, hike through the Edakkal Hills and Caves, and visit the Wayanad Heritage Museum.
The customizable itinerary caters to individual interests and activity levels, making it suitable for active and curious travelers.
The tour includes entry tickets, a knowledgeable guide, meals, and transportation. Travelers can choose to meet at the designated starting point or request pickup.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it’s located near public transportation. Infants can attend, but the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.
Reviewers have given the tour a perfect 5-star rating, praising its authenticity and engaging experiences.
Read our full review: Tyndis Wayanad Experiential Tour Review
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Kerala Backwater Village Kayaking Tour (Nedumudy)
Travelers seeking to experience the serene backwaters of Kerala can embark on the Kerala Backwater Village Kayaking Tour (Nedumudy). Priced from €27.72 per person, this 3-hour private group tour allows explorers to paddle through picturesque rivers, lakes, and interconnected canals.
Accompanied by an English-speaking certified kayaking guide, participants can observe local flora, fauna, and diverse birdlife, as well as interact with villagers to learn about their culture and daily life.
The tour offers a flexible and customizable experience, with opportunities to witness activities like fishing, mussel harvesting, duck farming, and local transportation methods.
While the primary mode of transport is kayaking, motorboats may replace this in adverse weather conditions, with additional charges. The tour is wheelchair accessible and has a generous cancellation policy, making it an attractive option for travelers.
With an overall 5/5 customer rating, the Kerala Backwater Village Kayaking Tour promises an immersive and memorable experience in the “Venice of the East.”
Read our full review: Kerala Backwater Village Kayaking Tour (Nedumudy) Review
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Private Jatayu Nature Park and Varkala Beach Tour From Kovalam
While exploring the picturesque landscapes of Kerala, travelers can enjoy the natural wonders of Jatayu Nature Park and the serene Varkala Beach on this private tour.
Priced at €47.99 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned cab, bottled water, and optional lunch. It also provides access to the cable car and Jatayu sculpture at the nature park, as well as all applicable taxes.
The tour offers pickup and drop-off service from Kovalam and Trivandrum hotels, ensuring convenience for participants. It’s wheelchair accessible and near public transportation.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience. However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, and infants must sit on laps.
With a total of 8 reviews and a 4.1 overall rating, this tour promises an immersive exploration of Kerala’s natural wonders, catering to most travelers.
Participants can expect a private experience with only their group participating.
Read our full review: Private Jatayu Nature Park and Varkala Beach Tour From Kovalam Review
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Beautiful, Mararikulam Beach Tour (02 Nights / 03 Days)
Immersing oneself in the serene beauty of Kerala’s Mararikulam Beach is the highlight of this carefully curated 2-night, 3-day tour. The tour offers a pickup service, making it convenient for travelers.
Over the course of the experience, visitors will explore the pristine, golden sands of Mararikulam Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning sunsets. The tour also includes accommodation, allowing travelers to fully embrace the coastal charm of the region.
At an affordable price of $92.52 per person, this tour provides exceptional value, delivering an immersive cultural and natural experience in Kerala. Travelers can expect to spend approximately 1-3 hours exploring the beach and its surroundings during this well-rounded package.
Whether seeking a relaxing getaway or a deeper connection with Kerala’s coastal landscapes, this Mararikulam Beach tour is a must-consider option for visitors to the region.
Read our full review: Beautiful, Mararikulam Beach Tour (02 Nights / 03 Days) Review
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Kochi ( India) Shore Excursions Pick & Drop @ Ship
Kochi, a vibrant port city in Kerala, offers visitors the chance to explore its rich history and cultural heritage through shore excursions. One such excursion is the “Kochi (India) Shore Excursions Pick & Drop @ Ship” package, which includes a local guide, transportation, and all fees and taxes.
After disembarking, guests can walk to the immigration office and find their guide, who’ll be holding a pager board with their name. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at the cruise terminal, with transportation provided by air-conditioned car or minivan.
The service is available for a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 10 travelers. Guests can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the tour begins. However, no refunds are offered for missed tours due to the late or non-arrival of the cruise ship.
Based on a single review, this shore excursion has received a 5.0 rating, with the guide Rajan Joseph praised for being informative and friendly. The price per person varies based on the group size, starting from €97.93.
Read our full review: Kochi ( India) Shore Excursions Pick & Drop @ Ship Review
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Kerala: 4-Day Tour With Tree House Stay & Houseboat Ride
Travelers seeking an immersive experience in Kerala can embark on a 4-day tour that promises a diverse array of activities. Priced at $590 per person, the tour includes a mix of natural wonders, cultural exploration, and relaxation. Highlights include a scenic drive to Munnar, a stay in a treehouse, and a houseboat cruise on the serene backwaters of Alleppey.
While the tour has some positive aspects, such as the Eravikulam National Park visit and the treehouse accommodation, customer reviews suggest room for improvement in areas like transportation, guide quality, and houseboat arrangements.
Travelers should weigh these considerations carefully before booking.
The tour includes pickup from Kochi Airport or any hotel within Cochin or Ernakulam, and drop-off can be arranged at the same locations. With a duration of 4 days, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Kerala: 4-Day Tour With Tree House Stay & Houseboat Ride Review
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Pursuit of Payyanur by Tyndis – Payyanur Experience Tour
Those seeking a unique cultural experience in Kerala can embark on the “Pursuit of Payyanur by Tyndis – Payyanur Experience Tour.”
This immersive tour promises to showcase the vibrant heritage and traditions of Payyanur, a quaint town situated along the Arabian Sea. Travelers will be accompanied by a storyteller who’ll bring the region’s rich history to life. The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, and lunch, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
The meeting point is in Payyanur, making it easily accessible via public transportation. The tour culminates in Kunhimangalam, providing a comprehensive exploration of the area.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate. Prospective participants are advised to confirm their booking and check their health status prior to the tour.
Read our full review: Pursuit of Payyanur by Tyndis – Payyanur Experience Tour Review
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Kerala Houseboat Tour To Alapuzha
The Kerala Houseboat Tour to Alapuzha provides an idyllic opportunity to explore the serene backwaters of this picturesque region.
This 7-hour tour takes travelers on a journey through the canals connecting to the Vembanad Lake, offering a chance to witness the natural beauty of Kerala.
Departing from the hotel, the tour includes chauffeur-driven transport, entrance fees, and a delightful lunch served on the exquisite houseboats.
Evoking a sense of luxury from centuries past, these vessels offer a relaxing experience as you sail through the waterways.
With a starting price of £101.16 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is an excellent value.
According to reviews, travelers have had positive experiences, praising the knowledgeable guide and the overall quality of the tour.
Whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or a solo traveler, the Kerala Houseboat Tour to Alapuzha is an unforgettable way to learn about the serene charm of Kerala’s backwaters.
Read our full review: Kerala Houseboat Tour To Alapuzha Review
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Recap
Kerala offers a diverse array of tours that cater to various interests. From the flavors of North Kerala to village kayaking and houseboat stays, travelers can enjoy the state’s rich culture and natural beauty. With options like Jatayu Nature Park and Wayanad’s bamboo village, Kerala provides unique experiences for all types of visitors. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s a Kerala tour package to suit every traveler’s preferences.