Kerala by Car & Driver: 9 Day Tour With Houseboat Stay

Exploring the picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture of Kerala has never been easier with the 9-day "Kerala by Car & Driver" tour. Travelers can enjoy the enchanting beauty of this southern Indian state, from the historic port city of Cochin to the verdant tea plantations of Munnar and the serene houseboat experience on Vembanad Lake. With guided sightseeing, scenic drives, and personalized service, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that caters to the diverse interests of modern-day adventurers. But there’s more to uncover, as the itinerary unfolds a captivating blend of cultural experiences and natural wonders that will leave a lasting impression.

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Key Points

• A 9-day Kerala tour focusing on natural beauty and cultural heritage, priced from $536.31 per person for a maximum of 10 participants.
• Includes pickup/drop-off from hotels, lodges, and Cochin International Airport, guided sightseeing, and a houseboat stay on Vembanad Lake.
• Key highlights include visits to Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, and the opportunity to witness the local way of life during the houseboat experience.
• The tour offers a scenic drive to Munnar, a visit to a spice plantation, and a boat ride in Periyar National Park.
• Cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and personal expenses, meals, drinks, and tips are not included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 9-day Kerala tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Priced from $536.31 per person, the small-group tour is limited to 10 participants.

Pickup and drop-off locations include hotels, lodges, and the Cochin International Airport.

Over the course of the journey, travelers will visit Cochin’s historic landmarks, enjoy Munnar’s verdant tea plantations, explore Thekkady’s spice farms and national park, and enjoy an overnight stay on a houseboat in the tranquil Vembanad Lake.

The tour includes a professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, accommodations, and selected activities, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour commences in the historic city of Cochin, where travelers embark on a guided exploration of its distinctive landmarks, including the Portuguese Church, Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets.

The journey then continues to the picturesque hill station of Munnar, known for its lush tea plantations and diverse wildlife.

In Thekkady, guests visit a spice plantation and go on a boat ride in the serene Periyar National Park.

The tour culminates with a relaxing overnight stay on a houseboat in the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom, offering a unique glimpse into the local way of life.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Travelers can opt to be picked up from their hotels in Kochi, a tourist home in Kochi, or lodges in Edappally. They can also be picked up from the Cochin International Airport.

At the end of the tour, guests will be dropped off at the same locations as the pickup spots.

The tour’s small group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The pickup and drop-off locations are convenient for travelers, allowing them to easily access the tour’s starting and ending points.

This streamlined process helps make the tour seamless and hassle-free for participants.

Guided Sightseeing in Cochin

The tour begins with a guided exploration of Cochin’s key landmarks. Participants will visit the Portuguese Church, a stunning example of colonial architecture.

Next, they’ll explore the historic Jewish Synagogue, admiring its ornate decor.

The tour then moves to the grand Mattancherry Palace, known for its distinctive Kerala-style murals.

Finally, they’ll witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets, a centuries-old method of fishing that remains an integral part of the city’s culture.

Throughout the tour, the local guide provides insights into Cochin’s rich heritage, bringing the city’s history to life.

This immersive experience sets the stage for the rest of the Kerala adventure.

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Scenic Drive to Munnar

After exploring the historic landmarks of Cochin, the tour heads to the picturesque hill town of Munnar.

The scenic 145 km drive takes approximately 4 hours, winding through lush tea plantations, verdant hills, and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, guests will:

• Admire the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats mountain range
• Stop at viewpoints to capture stunning photographs of the surrounding landscape
• Gain insights into the region’s thriving tea industry during a visit to a local tea plantation

Upon arrival in Munnar, the group will have the opportunity to further explore the town’s natural wonders and enjoy the tranquil, eco-friendly atmosphere.

Explore Thekkady’s Offerings

From Munnar, the group transfers to Thekkady, a journey of roughly 100 km that takes around 2 hours.

In Thekkady, they’ll visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation and processing of popular spices like black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.

Next, they’ll embark on a boat ride in Periyar National Park, home to elephants, tigers, and other wildlife.

The afternoon is free for independent exploration or relaxation.

The day ends with an overnight stay in Thekkady, where they can enjoy the region’s scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Houseboat Stay in Kumarakom

Following the morning leisure in Kumarakom, the group transfers to the quaint village for their overnight stay on a traditional Kerala houseboat.

The houseboat, gently gliding along the serene Vembanad Lake, offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s tranquil waterways and lush landscapes.

The comfortable accommodations, complete with air-conditioning and en-suite bathrooms, provide a luxurious respite from the day’s activities. Theres some good the local cuisine, prepared fresh onboard, and marvel at the stunning sunset views over the lake.

This houseboat stay promises to be a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to fully enjoy Kerala’s captivating backwaters.

• Luxurious accommodations with air-conditioning and en-suite bathrooms
• Opportunity to savor local cuisine and witness stunning sunset views
• Immersive experience in Kerala’s captivating backwaters

Important Information and Notes

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing travelers with a full refund.

Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, and sunscreen to make the most of the tour. Modest attire is required when visiting temples, churches, and mosques.

While the tour includes most activities, personal expenses, meals, drinks, entrance fees, and tips aren’t covered. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women.

Itineraries may change due to unforeseen circumstances, and participants are expected to respect local customs and culture throughout the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size on This Tour?

The tour has a small group size, limited to 10 participants. This allows for a more personalized and intimate experience during the 9-day journey through the highlights of Kerala.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to individual preferences. Travelers can request modifications to the itinerary and activities based on their interests and needs. The tour operator is flexible and accommodating to personalize the experience.

Are Any Meals Included in the Tour Package?

The tour package doesn’t include any meals, but travelers can enjoy local cuisine at their own expense during the tour. Meals are an additional cost not covered in the tour price.

How Are the Accommodations Arranged During the Tour?

The accommodations during the tour are arranged as follows: one night stay on a houseboat in Kumarakom, and the remaining nights in hotels or lodges in Cochin, Munnar, and Thekkady. The tour also includes airport and hotel transfers.

Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Schedule?

The tour schedule has some flexibility, as itineraries are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters or political disturbances. However, the tour coordinator aims to maintain the overall structure and highlights of the tour.

Recap

The "Kerala by Car & Driver" tour offers a comprehensive 9-day exploration of Kerala’s captivating landscapes and vibrant culture. From the historic streets of Cochin to the serene houseboat experience on Vembanad Lake, this journey promises an unforgettable immersion in the enchanting beauty of this southern Indian state. With guided sightseeing, scenic drives, and personalized service, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to discover the enchanting wonders of Kerala.

You can check if your dates are available here: