Hill station farm house stay

Discover the Charm of Kerala’s Rural Life with the Hill Station Farm House Stay

When you think of Kerala, lush greenery, spice-scented air, and tranquil waters probably come to mind. But venturing beyond the beaches and backwaters, this 2-day farm stay from Kochi offers a genuine glimpse into rural Kerala life, combining scenic drives, local markets, and an overnight at a charming farm. Priced at $175 per person, this private tour promises an intimate experience, with the added comfort of air-conditioned transportation and personal attention from your guide.

What we especially like is how this trip balances culture with relaxation — visiting vibrant markets and spending a night in a homely farm setting. Plus, the flexibility of a private tour means you can tailor some parts of the day to suit your pace. On the flip side, if you’re expecting a deep wildlife safari or extensive activities at the farm, you might find the options somewhat limited.

This trip fits travelers who value authentic local experiences, enjoy seeing landscapes beyond the usual tourist spots, and appreciate a good mix of nature, culture, and comfort. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a taste of Kerala’s countryside without sacrificing convenience.

Key Points

• Authentic Rural Experience: Spend a night at a cozy farm stay with included meals, enjoying local Kerala farm life.
• Scenic & Cultural Stops: Visit local markets in Cumbum and Theni, plus a quick stop at Thekkady, blending shopping with sightseeing.
• Wildlife Highlights: On Day 2, explore Periyar’s wildlife and waterways, ideal for nature lovers.
• Private & Flexible: The private tour ensures personalized guidance and the ability to adapt your schedule if needed.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and all taxes included make this a stress-free escape.
• Limited Wildlife Access: Entry to Periyar Tiger Reserve, wildlife sanctuary, and boat rides are not included, so plan accordingly if wildlife viewing is a priority.

A Deep Dive into the Kerala Farm Stay Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins early from Kochi, with your private driver ready to escort you to the heart of Kerala’s landscape. The first stop is Thekkady, a quick 1-hour visit that sets the stage for the day’s adventure. While the tour doesn’t specify detailed activities here, Thekkady is renowned for its spice plantations and scenic vistas, so even a brief stop is a taste of Kerala’s natural bounty.

Next, you’ll visit Cumbum and Theni—local markets that give you a window into daily rural life. These stops aren’t just about shopping; they’re about seeing local commerce, tasting fresh produce, and observing regional culture. Both markets are free to visit, making them excellent opportunities for casual exploration.

After about an hour at each market, the highlight of the day is your overnight stay at Harvest Fresh Farm. This farm house is described as new and with great views, especially near Parunthumpara, as one reviewer enthusiastically noted. Expect a peaceful environment, where you can wake up to the sounds and sights of Kerala’s countryside. Included are dinner and breakfast, emphasizing the farm-to-table experience that many travelers seek—fresh, local ingredients, served in a relaxed setting.

Day Two: Wildlife & Waterways

The next morning, your guide will take you to Periyar Tiger Reserve, where you’ll have a 2-hour visit. While entry fees aren’t included, you’ll get a sense of the reserve’s vastness and wildlife. Following this, a boating experience on Periyar Lake offers a tranquil way to observe the landscape and potentially spot some wildlife, though again, boat tickets are at your expense.

The day continues with a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can appreciate the lush habitat that supports diverse flora and fauna. This part of the tour, being only an hour, provides a quick but meaningful connection with Kerala’s lush biodiversity.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price covers dinner and breakfast, private transportation, and all applicable taxes, simplifying your planning. However, you’ll need to budget separately for entry fees to wildlife sanctuaries, boat rides, and any additional activities or meals outside the provided ones. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund, offers peace of mind—especially important if weather or schedule changes threaten your plans.

Insights from Past Travelers

The reviews highlight the trustworthiness and professionalism of the tour. One reviewer appreciated that the homestay near Parunthumpara was quiet, calm, and with a great view, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Another called the trip “expertly organized,” emphasizing the guide’s knowledge and the opportunity to meet locals and see landscapes that are often missed in more commercial tours.

Perhaps most compelling is the praise for the guides’ friendliness and attentiveness, with one describing the driver as “polite and informative,” making the journey smooth and enjoyable. The farm stay itself is described as “superb” with “great service”, a highlight for those who value comfort in rural settings.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $175 per person, this experience offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and authentic Kerala charm. The inclusion of meals, private transport, and a dedicated guide helps justify the cost, especially considering the local markets, scenic countryside, and farm stay ambiance that you wouldn’t easily find on a DIY trip.

While it doesn’t include entrance fees or wildlife activities, these are manageable expenses to plan for, and the overall experience remains cost-effective when weighed against the chance to see rural Kerala in comfort and style.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic rural experience, with a focus on local culture and scenery. It suits those who enjoy guided private tours with flexibility, especially if you appreciate comfortable transportation and want to avoid the hassle of organizing logistics yourself. Family travelers, couples, or solo explorers who value green landscapes, local markets, and a peaceful farm stay will find this tour particularly appealing.

Those looking for extensive wildlife safaris or adventure activities might find this tour somewhat limited, but for a relaxed, culturally rich overview of Kerala’s countryside, it hits the mark. It’s perfect if you want genuine insights and a chance to unwind in a pristine setting.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
This is a 2-day experience, with travel and sightseeing spread over approximately 18 hours on the first day and a half-day on the second.

What is included in the price?
The price covers dinner, breakfast, private transportation, and all applicable taxes. Entry fees and specific wildlife activities are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the reviews note that families, including kids, enjoyed the farm stay. It’s a relaxed experience that allows children to see rural life and enjoy nature.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Are meals included?
Yes, dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2 are included at the farm stay. Other meals are at your own expense.

What kind of transportation is used?
Travel is in an air-conditioned private vehicle, ensuring comfort and privacy.

Is this tour physically demanding?
No, most activities are light, including market visits, a short wildlife tour, and a boat ride, making it accessible to most travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to weather conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

In The Sum Up, this farm house stay from Kochi offers a well-rounded taste of Kerala’s rural charm, combining scenic drives, local markets, and peaceful farm life in an affordable, private setting. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxed, authentic experience with plenty of flexibility, and an excellent way to see Kerala beyond the beaches and bustling cities. If your ideal trip includes lush landscapes, friendly guides, and a touch of countryside hospitality, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.