Best of Kerala Tour (Exclusive Private tour)

Travelers searching for a thoughtfully curated way to explore Kerala will find this eight-day private tour offers a balanced mix of cultural sights, natural beauty, and relaxing moments. Priced at $589 per person, this experience promises a smooth journey with all logistics handled—think comfy transportation, cozy accommodations, and expert assistance—making it ideal for those who want an authentic yet fuss-free Kerala adventure.

What really caught our eye is the flexibility this tour offers: it’s customizable, making it suitable whether you’re a first-timer eager to see the big highlights or someone craving a more tailored experience. The tour’s excellent reviews—rated 5.0 out of 5 from nearly 200 travelers—speak volumes about its overall value and memorable moments. That said, one thing to consider is that the absence of a dedicated guide (the driver speaks English but isn’t a licensed guide) might mean you’ll miss out on detailed historical insights. Still, for travelers who love local ambiance and spontaneous exploration, this setup works well.

This tour suits a variety of travelers: couples looking for a romantic escape, families wanting a hassle-free adventure, or groups eager to soak in Kerala’s diverse landscape without the stress of planning. If you’re after a comprehensive, authentic snapshot of Kerala—covering bustling cities, lush hill stations, vibrant markets, and tranquil backwaters—this trip is a solid pick.

Key Points

• All logistics are managed, including transportation, accommodation, and transfers, which simplifies the experience.
• Flexibility to customize the itinerary means you can tailor activities to your interests.
• Excellent reviews highlight the professionalism of drivers and the quality of accommodations.
• The value for money stands out, with a well-rounded itinerary that covers major destinations.
• The tour is suitable for a broad range of interests, from cultural sites to natural landscapes.
• Private vehicle travel ensures comfort and flexibility during long drives.

A Deep Dive into the Best of Kerala Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

This private, all-inclusive tour offers a practical approach to seeing Kerala’s highlights without the hassle of organizing individual transport and accommodations. Starting with a smooth airport pickup in Kochi, the experience sets a welcoming tone—no need to worry about navigating unfamiliar streets or booking hotels separately.

The value here lies in convenience. For just under $600, you get seven nights of accommodation, daily breakfasts, and private transfers in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Many reviewers emphasize how this setup, especially the experienced driver, makes the journey enjoyable rather than exhausting. As one traveler noted, their driver “fixed everything and was so friendly and helpful,” which hints at the kind of personalized service you can expect.

Day 1: Exploring Kochi’s Heritage and Culture

Your Kerala adventure kicks off in Kochi, often called the “Gateway to Kerala.” Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel, giving you time to relax after a flight. The highlight of the first day is a visit to the Cochin Spice Market, where you can get a sensory overload of aromas, colors, and local produce. It’s a lively introduction to Kerala’s trading legacy.

In the evening, you might have the chance to catch an optional Kathakali dance performance—an ancient classical art form blending drama, dance, music, and ritual. Reviewers frequently mention how watching the elaborate make-up process and storytelling adds cultural depth to the trip. This optional activity is perfect for those interested in Kerala’s performing arts scene.

Day 2 & 3: The Charm of Munnar

Traveling from Kochi to Munnar, you’ll ascend into cooler climes among sprawling tea plantations and rolling hills. The drive itself offers scenic vistas—think endless green fields and misty mountain views. Munnar is renowned for its pristine valleys and lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.

In Munnar, you’ll visit a range of sights: the Echo Point, which is as fun as it sounds—you can shout your name and hear it bounce back across the valley—and the Indo Swiss Pothanmedu Project. The Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, is another must-see, offering a chance to see wildlife and enjoy panoramic views.

One reviewer described Munnar as “the most famous destination of Kerala,” emphasizing the stunning tea estates and beautiful valleys. Friends of the area often mention the peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot to unwind after busy city days.

Day 4: Into the Wilderness of Periyar

From Munnar, your journey takes you to the Periyar National Park, one of South India’s top wildlife sanctuaries. Surrounded by lush forests, the park is a haven for elephants, tigers, and numerous bird species. Many reviews praise the beautiful setting and the opportunity for optional activities, like boat safaris and nature walks.

While some travelers note that the driver is the primary point of contact (no licensed guide included), the local knowledge of drivers can still enhance your experience by pointing out animal sightings and sharing interesting tidbits. Staying overnight in Periyar means you’re well-placed to enjoy the park’s serenity.

Day 5 & 6: The Tranquil Backwaters and Beaches

Next stop is Alleppey, the “Venice of the East,” famous for its meandering lagoons, paddy fields, and coconut groves. Here, the tour includes a stay at a backwaters resort, which is a highlight. The calm waters and lush surroundings create an ideal setting to relax or enjoy optional visits to the Coir factory and Krishna Temple.

The houseboat experience in Alleppey is often praised for its serenity and luxury, with reviews mentioning the “beautiful and comfortable” boat. Spending a night on the water offers a peaceful break from the busy sightseeing days, with plenty of photo opportunities of traditional Kerala scenery.

Proceeding to Kovalam, you’ll settle into a resort just steps from the beach. Kovalam is known for its golden sands and lively beach culture, perfect for unwinding after days of sightseeing. Optional activities, like Ayurveda massages, are available, adding a relaxing touch to your trip.

Day 7 & 8: Kicking Back and Final Moments

The last full day allows for leisure—whether you choose to lounge on Kovalam Beach, explore Trivandrum’s local markets, or visit cultural sites like the Shri Chitra Art Gallery. The flexible schedule means you can tailor this day to your interests.

On your departure day, a straightforward transfer to Trivandrum International Airport completes your Kerala journey, leaving you with lasting memories of landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality.

The Experience from Real Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of the drivers, calling them “very friendly,” “helpful,” and “very accommodating.” One mentioned that their driver, “Salel,” fixed everything and was “so friendly and helpful,” which really underscores the importance of good local drivers in making or breaking a trip.

Many travelers also appreciated the hotel choices, describing them as “nice,” “clean,” and in “beautiful locations.” The houseboat in Alleppey received special praise for being “beautiful and comfortable,” creating a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

While some reviews mention long drives—a natural consequence of covering Kerala’s diverse terrain—most agreed that the scenery and the comfort of private transportation made it worthwhile. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures the journey remains comfortable, even in warm weather.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers exceptional value considering the inclusions—seven nights in well-located hotels, daily breakfast, private transportation, and a carefully crafted itinerary. It’s particularly attractive for those wanting a hassle-free experience that covers Kerala’s essential highlights, with enough flexibility to tailor the trip.

The personalized nature and attentive drivers make this a good choice for travelers who prefer comfort and convenience, especially if they’re unfamiliar with navigating India alone. The reviews consistently mention friendly drivers, with some reviewers giving praise to individuals like Raj, Salel, and Vijay for going above and beyond.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth guided tour with historical commentary or group activities, this might not fully meet those expectations. But for relaxed sightseeing, natural beauty, and culture without the stress of planning, it ticks many boxes.

Who Would Love This Tour?

• First-time visitors to Kerala wanting a rundown.
• Travelers seeking a relaxing, private experience with flexibility.
• Those interested in natural landscapes, hill stations, and backwaters.
• Couples and families looking for a hassle-free, comfortable trip.
• Travelers who prefer local driver guidance over formal guided tours.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes all transfers in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during long drives between destinations.

Are accommodations included?
Absolutely. The package covers seven nights in well-rated hotels with daily breakfasts.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, the tour is private and can be tailored to your interests, offering flexibility for different activities or destinations.

What’s the experience level of the driver?
The driver speaks English and is experienced, often praised for his helpfulness and friendliness. However, he is not a licensed guide, so detailed commentary might be limited.

Is this suitable for children or families?
Yes, the flexible, private nature of the tour makes it suitable for families. Just consider the long drives and plan accordingly.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, which provides peace of mind if plans change.

Are the activities included or optional?
Most activities—like the spice market, hill station visits, and backwater excursions—are part of the itinerary. Some optional cultural performances or local visits may incur extra charges.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 13 days in advance. Note that the package isn’t valid during peak season (December 20 – January 8) without a 30% surcharge.

Is a guide provided during sightseeing?
No dedicated guide is included; the driver speaks English and will assist with logistics and pointing out sights but isn’t a guide, so historical or cultural insights may be limited.

In short, this Best of Kerala tour offers a well-rounded and comfortable way to explore India’s southern gem. With flexible options, excellent reviews, and a focus on hassle-free travel, it’s a strong choice for those wanting to get a genuine taste of Kerala’s diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and peaceful backwaters—all with ease.