6-Day Kerala Private Tour: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

A 6-Day Kerala Private Tour: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers an engaging glimpse into the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture of India’s “God’s own country.” Spanning from bustling Kochi to tranquil backwaters and wildlife reserves, this tour combines nature, history, and local traditions into one compelling package. With a mix of guided visits, scenic drives, and optional activities, it’s designed for travelers seeking a well-rounded Kerala experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on authentic Kerala highlights—wildlife encounters, lush tea gardens, and serene backwaters—paired with comfortable accommodations and private transportation. The itinerary strikes a good balance between sightseeing and leisure, giving you enough time to absorb each location’s unique charm. That said, one consideration is that some activities, like entrance fees and boat rides, are not included, so it’s worth budgeting extra for these optional experiences.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, wildlife, and culture, especially those wanting a structured yet flexible way to explore Kerala’s most iconic spots. It’s ideal if you prefer private, guided experiences over group tours, and value the convenience of door-to-door transfers and accommodation. Whether you’re a first time visitor or returning for a deeper look, this tour offers a practical way to see Kerala’s highlights with insightful commentary along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Combines wildlife, hill stations, backwaters, and cultural shows for a well-rounded Kerala trip.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private air-conditioned transport and hotel stays streamline your journey.
• Flexibility and Extras: Optional boat rides and entrance fees not included; plan accordingly.
• Cultural Highlights: Enjoy traditional Kathakali dance and explore Kochi’s colonial relics.
• Natural Beauty: Stunning views of tea gardens, waterfalls, and lush wildlife sanctuaries.
• Travel Balance: Mix of sightseeing, leisure, and optional activities for tailored experiences.

Experience Breakdown: What to Expect From Each Day

Day 1: Arrival & Kochi’s Colonial Charm

Your journey begins in Kochi, a city famed for blending Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Upon arrival, a company representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Expect a warm welcome and a chance to settle in before heading out for an evening Kathakali dance performance, a traditional art form showcasing Kerala’s vibrant culture.

Kochi’s highlights include the iconic Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Jewish Synagogue, and the Mattancherry Palace. These sites offer glimpses of the city’s colonial past, carefully preserved amidst bustling markets and lively streets. Many reviewers mention how well kept Kochi is, with one noting how it’s “one of the few places in India that has managed to preserve its colonial remnants with care.”

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Munnar & Tea Gardens

After breakfast, you’ll depart for Munnar, a hill station famed for its rolling tea plantations and cool mountain air. The scenic drive takes you through lush landscapes, waterfalls, and charming villages—perfect for photography and soaking in Kerala’s natural beauty. Expect to see vivid green tea gardens sprawling across the hills, a view loved by travelers who have called it “breathtaking.”

Arriving in Munnar, you’ll have some free time to explore or relax at your hotel. Many guests appreciate the tranquility here after busy city life, with one reviewer mentioning that Munnar is “certainly a great destination to visit in Kerala.”

Day 3: Wildlife & Nature at Eravikulam National Park

The day kicks off with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, home to the rare Nilgiri Tahr. This area is both a wildlife sanctuary and a haven for plant biodiversity. Expect to see misty hills and dense forests, with the chance to spot mountain goats that are difficult to find elsewhere.

Next stop: Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point. The dam offers picturesque views of water nestled amidst green hills, while Echo Point is popular for calling out across the valley and hearing your voice bounce back—a fun, interactive element appreciated by many travelers.

While entry tickets aren’t included, the experience of wandering through lush, rolling landscapes makes this stop genuinely memorable. Reviewers have loved the scenery and the opportunity to see the Nilgiri Tahr, which is especially exciting given their rarity.

Day 4: Wildlife & Backwaters in Periyar

Travel to Thekkady in the morning, where the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary awaits. This reserve is known for its elephants, wild bison, Nilgiri langur monkeys, and a variety of vibrant birdlife. Many reviews highlight how special it is to encounter wildlife in their natural habitat here—one reviewer mentions wild elephants and Nilgiri langurs with fondness.

A key highlight is the optional boat ride on Periyar Lake. Although this isn’t included in the tour price, it offers a wonderful chance to spot animals along the water’s edge and enjoy peaceful vistas. The sanctuary’s combination of lush forests and water bodies ensures a scenic experience that many find enriching.

Day 5: Relaxing in Alleppey Backwaters

After breakfast, you’ll check into a resort near the famous Alleppey backwaters. This day is more relaxed, letting you unwind and enjoy the scenic waterway views. Reviewers say this part of the trip offers “good time” and “leisurely” moments, perfect for soaking in Kerala’s slow pace and natural beauty. The backwaters are best appreciated with a boat cruise, which can be arranged at your cost.

Day 6: Departure from Kochi

The final day involves breakfast and a transfer back to Kochi for your flight or train. The convenience of private transportation means you’ll arrive relaxed and ready for your onward journey, with plenty of time to reflect on your Kerala adventure.

Analyzing the Value

At $659 per person, this tour offers a well-organized way to see Kerala’s major attractions. The inclusion of airport transfers, hotel stays, private air-conditioned transportation, and daily breakfast adds to the convenience. While some activities like entrance fees and boat rides are extra, many reviewers find the overall experience worth the cost.

The private nature of the tour allows for a more personalized experience, with a small group size (max 10 people) ensuring ample space for questions and flexibility. Guests consistently appreciate the comfortable accommodations and the attentiveness of the guides and drivers—many mention how helpful and careful their drivers were, making the journey smooth and safe.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that optional activities such as boat rides in Periyar or entrance fees are not included, which could increase costs slightly. Also, note that during March, Eravikulam National Park restricts visitors due to the Tahr breeding season, so plan your trip accordingly.

Why This Tour Works

This Kerala tour is especially suited for those who want a balanced experience of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural highlights. If you’re after authentic encounters rather than heavily curated group tours, the private format and flexible schedule will appeal. Nature lovers will relish the chance to see the Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy the tranquil backwaters, while culture enthusiasts will enjoy the performance and Kochi’s colonial architecture.

Travelers who value comfortable logistics—from private transfers to cozy hotels—will find this a hassle-free way to explore. It’s a good fit whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, given the accommodating group size and thoughtful itinerary.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Kerala private tour offers a solid snapshot of what makes Kerala special: lush landscapes, wildlife, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. It balances sightseeing with downtime, ensuring you aren’t rushing from place to place but instead soaking in each location’s unique vibe. The options for optional activities, like boat rides, allow you to customize your experience, although they do add to the overall cost.

The reviews reflect a consistent appreciation for the scenic views—especially the tea gardens, wildlife, and backwaters—as well as the professional, attentive guides and drivers. Many guests mention how the entire trip felt well-organized and enjoyable, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet manageable Kerala adventure.

If you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated, comfortable way to see Kerala’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially perfect for nature lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting a taste of Kerala’s diverse scenery in just six days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is airport pickup and drop-off included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes assistance with arrival at and departure from the airport, making your travel experience smoother.

What is included in the package?
The package covers 5 nights of accommodation, private air-conditioned transfers, sightseeing by private vehicle, and daily breakfast.

Are entrance fees and boat rides included?
No, entrance fees and boat rides in places like Periyar and Alleppey are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra if you want to participate in those activities.

What are the accommodation arrangements like?
You’ll stay in hotels as per the chosen package option, generally comfortable and conveniently located near the attractions.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the private transportation makes for a comfortable experience. However, consider physical mobility and activity preferences when planning.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some room for customization, and your guide can help tailor experiences based on your interests.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended for most sites, with comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and warm weather.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 3 days in advance are fully refundable, offering peace of mind for changing schedules.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Kerala tour aligns with your travel style and interests. With a good mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural insights, it offers a practical yet immersive way to experience Kerala’s magic.