5-Days Private Kerala Tour with Sightseeing Tickets

Traveling through Kerala with this 5-day private tour offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, serene backwaters, and cultural experiences. It’s designed for those who want a comprehensive look at Kerala’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. From lush mountains to tranquil lakes, each day promises a new scene—and lots of memorable moments.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is its well-structured itinerary, balancing scenic stops with cultural insights. Plus, the inclusion of all entrance fees and sightseeing tickets means you won’t be caught off guard by hidden costs. But, be aware that this tour involves quite a bit of driving, which might not suit travelers seeking a more relaxed pace or in-depth, customized experiences. This tour is ideal for first-timers to Kerala or travelers who want a curated, hassle-free adventure that hits all the major sights.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Pricing: With sightseeing tickets, entrance fees, and a private air-conditioned vehicle, this tour offers good value for a comprehensive experience.
• Diverse Experiences: From waterfalls and wildlife safaris to backwater cruises and tribal visits, the tour captures Kerala’s diversity.
• Expert Guides & Drivers: Consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness—especially the driver Subeesh, who many reviews highlight.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to visit tribal hamlets and plantations add a genuine touch beyond typical sightseeing.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickups and private transport make the journey smooth and comfortable.
• Limited Flexibility: As a fixed itinerary, it’s best suited for travelers who prefer a set plan rather than customizing on the fly.

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Kerala Experience

Day 1: From Kochi to Munnar – Waterfalls and Scenic Drive

Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel or port in Kochi, and from there, it’s about a 4-5 hour drive into the heart of Kerala’s hill country. The highlight of this initial stretch is the stop at Valara waterfalls, famous for piping lush greenery and cascading waters—more mesmerizing during the monsoon, but equally beautiful year-round. Just a quick 10-minute stop, it’s a great photo op and a moment to stretch your legs.

Soon after, you’ll visit Cheeyappara waterfalls, another short 10-minute stop, giving you a taste of Kerala’s plentiful waterfalls. These stops are perfect for stretching out after the drive and snapping some photos of the verdant landscape.

Arriving in Munnar, you’ll check into your pre-booked hotel. Most reviews mention that the hotels are comfortable, with some guests enjoying the elevated, misty settings—perfect for a relaxing first night. The benefit here is the free time to settle in, relax, or explore your surroundings at leisure.

Day 2: Exploring Munnar’s Natural Wonders & Wildlife

The second day is packed with highlights. It starts early with a visit to Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park—home to the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat species. The park is a favorite for wildlife lovers, and you’ll enjoy spotting these elusive creatures with your included entry ticket. The park also offers the chance to see Anamudi Peak, South India’s highest point. The views here are impressive, and the guide’s insights about local flora and fauna add depth to the experience.

Next, you head to Mattupetty Dam, where the still waters reflect the surrounding tea gardens—perfect for photos. Many travelers love watching the water reflect the hills and enjoying the optional water sports like speed boating (not included in the ticket). The dam’s tranquil setting makes it a peaceful spot to soak in the landscape.

Echo Point is next—a fun place named for its natural echo. Visitors often enjoy calling out and hearing their voices bounce back, which is surprisingly clear and loud. A simple but amusing stop, it’s a classic Munnar photo spot.

About 8 km from Echo Point, the Kundala Dam Lake offers boat rides—pedal boats and shikaras—plus panoramic views of tea plantations on the slopes. Reviewers often mention the blooming Neelakurinji flowers (occasionally in bloom) and Cherry Blossom flowers here, adding a touch of color to the scenery.

A quick stop at Photo Point provides a lush backdrop of tea gardens, ideal for snapping memorable photos. Later, Anayirankal Dam Reservoir is another highlight—here, you might see elephant herds coming down to drink water, a unique sight that many travelers appreciated. This stop combines natural beauty with a chance to glimpse wildlife in their habitat.

Day 3: From Munnar to Thekkady – Cultural and Wilderness Experiences

After checking out from your Munnar hotel, the journey continues south to Thekkady. The drive itself offers stunning views, with lush hills and plantations passing by.

In Thekkady, the Periyar Lake is the centerpiece of the wildlife sanctuary. A two-hour boat ride on the lake is included, and you might spot elephants, wild boar, or even a few herds of buffalo grazing along the shores. Several reviewers praise this activity as a peaceful yet exciting way to connect with nature.

Post-lake, you’ll visit the Yodha Cultural Village, where traditional Kerala arts like Kathakali, Kalarippayattu, and magic shows bring local culture alive. Many guests mention the performances as a highlight, with guides and performers explaining the stories behind these art forms—adding an authentic flavor to your visit.

Day 4: Backwaters & Sunset in Alleppey

A scenic drive takes you from Thekkady to Alleppey. Here, the highlight is a sunset cruise along the backwaters—a quintessential Kerala experience. The traditional Shikara boats glide silently through narrow canals lined with palm trees and houseboats, creating a calming, almost hypnotic atmosphere. Reviews note that this ride offers great photo opportunities, especially as the sun dips low.

While the cruise itself isn’t included in the ticket, it’s highly recommended and offers value for the chance to see Kerala from a different perspective—serene, lush, and surprisingly quiet for a popular destination.

Day 5: Departure from Alleppey to Kochi

Your final morning begins with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a drive back to Cochin. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or the airport, making the departure process straightforward.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

The consistent praise in reviews for knowledgeable guides and drivers, especially Subeesh, underlines one of this tour’s biggest strengths. Guests mention how helpful and friendly everyone is, turning what could be a hectic schedule into a smooth, enjoyable experience.

The inclusion of sightseeing tickets and entrance fees adds real value, removing the stress of additional costs. The private air-conditioned transport ensures comfort through the long drives, which are inevitable given Kerala’s geography.

Many travelers also appreciated the authentic encounters—visiting tribal hamlets and plantations offered a glimpse into local life that’s often missing from more commercial tours. The variety of activities—from wildlife safaris and waterfalls to backwaters and cultural shows—means that everyone finds something to love.

However, some might find the pace a bit brisk, especially on days with multiple stops and long drives. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, unstructured holiday, this might feel a little on the packed side.

The Sum Up

This 5-day private Kerala tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, wildlife, culture, and leisure, making it a compelling choice for those new to Kerala or travelers who prefer a curated, hassle-free experience. The inclusion of sightseeing tickets, the expertise of guides, and the variety of stops ensure you get good value for your money.

It’s particularly suited for first-timers, families, or couples looking to explore Kerala without the worry of planning, while still experiencing its most iconic sights. The tour’s emphasis on authentic experiences—such as tribal visits and the scenic backwaters—adds depth and meaning beyond just sightseeing.

If you relish a well-organized trip with knowledgeable guides and a diverse itinerary, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for some days of travel and a schedule that keeps you on the move.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, since it is a private tour, solo travelers can join and enjoy the personalized experience without sharing with strangers.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but given the driving and walking involved, it’s best for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity.

Does the price include accommodation?
The tour price covers transportation, sightseeing tickets, and some meals, but you will need to book your own accommodations in Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This tour follows a set schedule, so customization isn’t included. However, you can discuss special requests or needs with the provider beforehand.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothes for sightseeing, sturdy walking shoes, rain gear during monsoon, and a good camera.

Is food included?
Breakfast is included at the hotels in each location. Additional meals are at your own expense, though some reviewers mentioned enjoying local Kerala cuisine.

How long are the drives between stops?
Most drives are several hours, so a good proportion of the tour involves travel time. The private vehicle ensures comfort and convenience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the parks and attractions listed are included in the tour price.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour is suitable year-round, but the scenery, especially waterfalls, is particularly impressive during the monsoon season. Summer offers clear skies and good wildlife spotting.

In summary, this tour offers a thoughtful, well-rounded introduction to Kerala. Whether you’re after lush landscapes, wildlife encounters, or cultural insights, it covers a lot of ground with ease and comfort. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a stress-free yet immersive Kerala experience.