When you think of Kerala, lush tea plantations, serene backwaters, and vibrant cultural sights probably come to mind. This 8-day private tour, priced around $518 per person, takes you through some of the most iconic spots—from the misty hills of Munnar to tranquil Kumarakom’s backwaters, finishing with the lively beaches of Kovalam and Kanyakumari. What makes this experience stand out? The dedicated private chauffeur ensures smooth travel, while accommodations in 3-star hotels and a deluxe houseboat balance comfort with authenticity.

Two things we love about this tour: First, the careful itinerary that packs in nature, wildlife, and cultural sights without feeling rushed. Second, the personalized experience with private drivers—reviewers rave about their guides like Babu Antony and Shajeer, who make each day engaging and memorable. The only potential drawback? If you prefer a more luxurious experience, this trip, with its 3-star lodgings, might feel a touch modest. But for those who value authentic local stays and a good value, it hits the right notes.

This tour works best for adventurous travelers willing to explore diverse environments, from hill stations to backwaters, and who appreciate personalized service. It’s especially ideal if you want a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and relaxing beaches. Family groups, honeymooners, or friends looking for a comprehensive Kerala experience will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers iconic destinations like Munnar, Periyar, Kumarakom, Alleppey, Kovalam, and Kanyakumari in 8 days.
Personalized Travel: Private chauffeur and vehicle provide comfort and flexibility.
Authentic Stays: Includes 3-star resorts and a traditional houseboat experience with all meals on board.
Value for Money: At around $518, it offers a lot—accommodation, transport, most meals, and guided sightseeing.
Wildlife & Nature: Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and enjoy the scenic backwaters.
Ideal for Curious Explorers: Suited for those who want a mix of cultural, natural, and beach destinations.

Deep Dive into the Kerala Experience

Starting at Kochi Airport, you’ll be greeted by your driver and whisked away to the hill town of Munnar. The drive itself is part of the journey—expect scenic stops at waterfalls, where the lush green landscape makes you want to pause and breathe it all in. Arriving at your resort in Munnar, you’ll settle into a comfortable base nestled amid tea gardens, offering a peaceful start to your trip.

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Munnar: The Hill Station with a View

Day two is dedicated to exploring the beauty of Munnar. You’ll visit notable sights like Mattupetty, where boat rides and horse riding are popular, and Echo Point, renowned for its natural acoustic effects. The Eravikulam National Park is another highlight, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and vast rolling hills. Reviewers appreciate the local guides’ knowledge, making the scenery come alive.

What we love: The opportunity to see tea plantations and hear stories about local life. The scenic drives and panoramic views are truly worth it.

Possible consideration: The travel from Kochi to Munnar takes about four to five hours, so early mornings and long drives are part of the package.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Thekkady: Wildlife Encounters

After a restful night in Munnar, you’ll head to Thekkady, famous for its Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. A boat cruise on Lake Periyar is often a highlight, where you might spot elephants, Indian Gaur, and a variety of birds. The reviews mention friendly guides who make wildlife sightings engaging.

Why it matters: Visiting a reserve renowned for animal sightings adds a touch of adventure, especially if you love nature. The boat cruise is included, making it a hassle-free wildlife experience.

Note: Some reviews mention booking boating tickets directly through the sanctuary, so check if you want to customize this part.

Kumarakom & Alleppey: The Backwater Bliss

Post-Periyar, you’ll travel to Kumarakom, where your stay will be on a deluxe houseboat. This overnight cruise is often described as the trip’s “cherry on top”—a slow glide through swaying coconut palms and rustic villages. All meals are served on the boat, giving a true taste of Kerala’s backwater life.

The next day, you’ll transfer to Alleppey, another backwater hub, and relax for the afternoon in a lakeside resort. Reviewers highlight the peaceful scenery and the authentic experience of being on a traditional houseboat.

Key insight: The houseboat stay is often praised as a “magical experience,” with all meals included, making it excellent value.

Kovalam & Kanyakumari: Relaxing Beaches and Cultural Sights

Your journey continues to Kovalam, famous for its rocky promontories and safe beaches. Here, the focus is on unwinding, enjoying the pristine sands, and dipping into the warm waters. Reviewers mention the beautiful beaches and the friendly atmosphere.

On the last full day, you’ll visit Kanyakumari, India’s southernmost tip. The sunset views and memorial boat trip leave a lasting impression, especially for lovers of coastal scenery.

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Final Day & Departure

Your trip concludes with a city tour or optional shopping in Trivandrum before heading back to the airport. The flexibility at the end allows you to soak in some last-minute sights or pick up souvenirs.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The private transfer system truly elevates this experience—no waiting around for buses or shared rides. The drivers, praised extensively in reviews, are described as polite, punctual, and knowledgeable. This means you can enjoy the scenery and cultural sights without the stress of navigating.

Accommodation in 3-star hotels strikes a good balance—comfortable enough for a restful night, yet not overly luxurious so you can focus on the cultural experience. The deluxe houseboat stay is a particular highlight, with guests describing it as “the cherry on top” and “a magical experience”.

Wildlife and nature are central to this tour, with visits to Periyar Sanctuary and the backwaters providing opportunities for sightings and peaceful reflection. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who add context and stories to each stop.

Value and Pricing

At just over $500, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Kerala, including meals, transport, and accommodations. When you consider that meals are included on the houseboat and some along the way, plus the convenience of private drivers, the value becomes clear.

Potential Downsides

The 3-star hotel accommodations are perfectly fine, but guests expecting luxury might feel a bit underwhelmed. Also, long drives between some destinations—like Kochi to Munnar—are unavoidable, so travelers should be prepared for some hours on the road.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This itinerary suits travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, wildlife, culture, and beach relaxation. It’s especially good for first-time visitors eager to see a wide swath of Kerala without the hassle of planning every detail. Honeymooners, families, friends, or solo travelers who appreciate a personalized, guided experience will find this tour particularly satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Combining well-organized travel, authentic accommodations, and a focus on nature, this 8-day Kerala private tour offers great value and memorable moments. The expert guides and private transport help you see Kerala comfortably and at your own pace, while the houseboat cruise provides a unique, relaxing experience.

While it’s not the most luxurious option out there, it’s an authentic, hassle-free way to experience Kerala’s diverse landscapes. If your priority is seeing the highlights with a knowledgeable guide and enjoying the natural beauty, this tour should be on your shortlist.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, a private vehicle with a chauffeur is included for the entire 8 days, covering around 1050 kilometers. This means smooth transfers between sites and the ability to relax without navigating unfamiliar roads.

Are accommodations in hotels or resorts?
You’ll stay in 3-star hotels and resorts, plus a night on a traditional houseboat, which includes all meals. The accommodations are reviewed as comfortable and convenient, allowing you to enjoy Kerala’s hospitality.

What meals are included?
Six breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner are included, with all meals served on the houseboat during the overnight cruise. Some additional meals like lunch in the other resorts are also covered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you may have some flexibility, especially with sightseeing stops and optional activities. It’s best to discuss your preferences with your trip designer beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, it’s suitable for a wide range of travelers, including families, couples, and solo adventurers. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour requires a minimum of two people per booking.

What’s the main highlight of the trip?
Many reviewers cite the houseboat experience and wildlife sightings in Periyar as standout moments. The scenic drives, picturesque landscapes, and authentic cultural stops also leave a lasting impression.

How much does this tour cost?
The current price is approximately $518.67 per person, which covers most expenses like transport, accommodations, select meals, and guided sightseeing, offering good value for such a diverse itinerary.

This 8-day Kerala tour balances adventure, relaxation, and culture, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience “God’s Own Country” without overcomplicating their travel plans. Whether you’re marveling at tea plantations, cruising scenic backwaters, or unwinding on Kovalam’s beaches, this journey promises authentic memories and a genuine taste of Kerala’s natural beauty.