Highlights of Kerala

The Highlights of Kerala tour offers an immersive experience through the southern Indian state’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Travelers can expect to journey along the serene backwaters on a traditional houseboat, explore the diverse wildlife at Eravikulam National Park and Periyar Lake, and visit the vibrant Kumarakom bird sanctuary. With comfortable accommodations and daily breakfasts included, this 13-day adventure combines natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and opportunities to immerse in local traditions. But what makes this tour truly captivating is the chance to uncover the essence of Kerala, often referred to as God’s Own Country.

Key Points

• Explore the serene Kerala backwaters by traditional houseboat, offering glimpses of local communities and authentic cuisine.
• Spot endangered Nilgiri tahr and diverse wildlife in Eravikulam National Park, a renowned sanctuary in the Western Ghats.
• Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Periyar Lake to observe elephants, tigers, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat.
• Visit the Kumarakom bird sanctuary, a haven for migratory birds like the Siberian stork, accessible by boat.
• Experience the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Kerala on a 13-day tour covering Kochi to Mararikulam.

Tour Highlights

The highlights of this Kerala tour include a journey through the tranquil backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat.

Travelers will also explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, and take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife.

Visitors can wander through the Kumarakom bird sanctuary, a haven for migratory birds.

The 13-day tour covers Kerala’s diverse landscapes, from the historic port city of Kochi to the serene coastal town of Mararikulam.

This customizable private tour is suitable for travelers with varied interests and can be tailored to suit individual needs.

Accommodation and Meals

This 13-day Kerala highlights tour provides comfortable accommodations for travelers. Guests will enjoy 12 nights in 3-star hotels, with rooms offered on a double or twin-sharing basis. Plus, the tour includes one night on a traditional houseboat in Alleppey, allowing travelers to experience the region’s famous backwaters. Daily breakfast is included throughout the tour, while other meals, such as lunch and dinner, can be arranged at an additional cost.

Accommodation	Nights	Meals Included
3-star hotels	12	12 breakfasts
Houseboat	1	–

Inclusions and Exclusions

Commonly, the Kerala highlights tour includes airport transfers and all local transfers via air-conditioned car, as well as a local English-speaking guide in Kochi (with other languages available at an additional cost).

The tour also covers visits to Eravikulam National Park, Periyar Lake boat ride, and Kumarakom bird sanctuary.

One mineral water bottle per person per day and all applicable taxes, including GST, are included.

However, the tour excludes visa fees, monument entry fees, tips, beverages other than water, and personal expenses.

International flights to and from the trip start and finish are also not included.

The price varies by group size and is non-refundable upon cancellation.

Kerala Backwaters

One of the highlights of a Kerala tour is the opportunity to experience the serene Kerala Backwaters. This intricate network of canals, lakes, and rivers is home to a unique way of life.

Visitors can embark on a houseboat journey through the tranquil waters, witnessing the local communities and their traditions.

The backwaters offer:

• Glimpses of rural Kerala, with its lush green landscapes and friendly people
• Opportunities to observe traditional boat-making and coir-making industries
• A chance to savor authentic Kerala cuisine, freshly prepared on the houseboat

Exploring the Kerala Backwaters is a truly immersive and memorable experience, providing a window into the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park is a renowned wildlife sanctuary nestled in the Western Ghats, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. Home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, this park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Visitors can expect to see a variety of birds, butterflies, and other small mammals. The park’s landscape is characterized by rolling grasslands, shola forests, and rugged mountain peaks.

Hiking trails wind through the park, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty. With its stunning vistas and rich biodiversity, Eravikulam National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts exploring the state of Kerala.

Periyar Lake Boat Ride

The Periyar Lake boat ride offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the serene waters of one of Kerala’s most iconic natural attractions.

Nestled within the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the lake is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and a myriad of bird species.

The boat ride allows travelers to:

• Spot rare and elusive animals in their natural habitat
• Admire the lush, verdant landscapes surrounding the lake
• Experience the tranquility of gliding across the calm waters

This captivating experience provides a chance to take in the enchanting natural wonders of the region, making it a must-visit activity on any Kerala highlights tour.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

After the serene boat ride on Periyar Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary beckons as another highlight of Kerala’s natural wonders. This 14-acre wetland ecosystem is home to a diverse array of migratory birds, including the rare and endangered Siberian stork. Visitors can explore the sanctuary by boat, catching glimpses of herons, egrets, and other water birds in their natural habitats.

Season	Best Time to Visit	Species to Spot
Winter	November to February	Siberian Stork, Darter, Cormorant, Kingfisher
Summer	March to June	Egrets, Herons, Waterfowl
Monsoon	July to October	Migratory Birds, Resident Birds

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary offers a tranquil escape and a chance to witness Kerala’s avian wonders up close.

Additional Information

Travelers can expect to be picked up from Kochi Airport for the start of this 13-day highlights tour of Kerala.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Certain travelers may want to avoid this tour, as it isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.

• The private tour is designed for your group only, ensuring a personalized experience.

• Prices vary based on group size, and the tour is non-refundable upon cancellation.

• The tour has an overall rating of 5.0 based on 2 reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Flexible Is the Tour Itinerary to Accommodate Personal Preferences?

The tour itinerary is highly customizable to suit individual needs. Travelers can work with the local provider to adjust the schedule, activities, and accommodations based on their personal preferences and interests.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Mentioned in the Package?

The package includes most essential costs, but there are a few additional fees not specified, such as monument entry fees, tips, and beverages beyond the included mineral water. Travelers should budget for these optional expenses.

What Safety Precautions Are in Place for the Activities and Transportation?

The tour provider ensures the safety of all activities and transportation. Seatbelts are mandatory in vehicles, and guides provide safety briefings for activities like the houseboat journey and wildlife-spotting. Medical assistance is available in case of emergencies.

Can the Tour Be Extended or Customized for a Longer Duration?

The tour can be extended or customized for a longer duration. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to tailor the itinerary to the traveler’s preferences and needs. Additional days and activities can be added at an extra cost.

How Does the Weather Impact the Best Time to Visit Kerala During the Tour?

The weather in Kerala can impact the best time to visit. The region has a tropical climate, with the southwest monsoon from June to September and the northeast monsoon from October to December. The ideal time is during the drier periods from November to March.

Recap

The Highlights of Kerala tour provides an immersive experience through the state’s natural wonders and cultural richness. Travelers can expect comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and the opportunity to explore the serene backwaters, diverse wildlife, and local traditions, creating an unforgettable adventure in God’s Own Country.