God’s Own Country – KERALA (8 Days private trip)

If you’re dreaming of lush landscapes, tranquil backwaters, and vibrant culture, this 8-day private trip through Kerala is a fantastic choice. Starting from Kochi, the historic spice trading port, moving through scenic Munnar tea plantations, experiencing the wildlife of Thekkady, relaxing in Kumarakom, and ending with a serene houseboat cruise in Alleppey, this journey covers some of Kerala’s most beloved sights.

A couple of things we love: first, the personalized attention you get with a private guide and vehicle, making each day flexible and tailored to your interests. Second, the mix of luxurious accommodations—like boutique hotels and a traditional houseboat—paired with authentic village tours and cultural performances, offers a layered experience that feels both indulgent and genuine.

One consideration: the tour involves some transit—about a 5-hour drive to Munnar and similar distances—so be prepared for some long days on the road. But if you’re comfortable with a bit of travel, you’ll be rewarded with diverse, stunning vistas.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Kerala, especially those who appreciate personalized service, scenic landscapes, and cultural highlights. It’s perfect for first-timers eager for authentic Kerala moments without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Customizable private experience offers personal attention and flexibility.
• Includes all accommodations, many meals, and entry fees, offering great value.
• Diverse destinations from historic Kochi to scenic tea plantations and backwaters.
• Active activities like village walks, spice plantations, jungle safaris, and a houseboat stay.
• Guides and transportation are highly praised for their professionalism and local knowledge.
• Essential experiences include Chinese fishing nets, Kathakali dance, and Kerala’s lush landscapes.

A Deep Dive into the Kerala Experience

When we consider a tour of Kerala, it’s the combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality that makes it so appealing. This 8-day private trip encapsulates those elements beautifully, allowing you to witness the variety that makes Kerala a standout in India. Here’s a detailed look at what each part of this journey offers, based on reviews and the itinerary.

Day 1: Discovering Fort Kochi’s Unique Charm

Arriving in Kochi (Cochin), the first impression is one of contrasts—Chinese fishing nets, a 400-year-old synagogue, Portuguese houses, and colonial relics—all blending into an atmospheric town that feels both historic and lively. We love how this city offers layers of history with a relaxed, tropical vibe.

Your guide will take you on a tour of the Cochin Spice Market and the iconic Chinese fishing nets—both essential sights. As one reviewer noted, “The private car will pick up from the Kochi airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kochi,” setting a comfortable tone for your trip. Expect about 2 hours exploring the city, with admission free but plenty of photo opportunities.

Day 2: From Coastal City to Green Hills of Munnar

A drive of around five hours takes you from Kochi to Munnar, famous for its tea plantations and rolling hills. We appreciate the care taken to make this transfer smooth—your private vehicle and driver mean you can relax and enjoy the scenic journey.

Munnar’s lush landscapes—clipped and sculpted tea gardens—are truly stunning. One review mentions, “The rolling hills around Munnar are carpeted in emerald-green tea plantations, contoured like ornamental hedges,” and that’s exactly what you’ll see. It’s the perfect environment for nature lovers, especially if you enjoy panoramic views and fresh mountain air.

In the evening, you might catch a Kalaripayattu martial arts show, a traditional art form that’s both fascinating and energetic. The mix of activities here allows you to engage physically and culturally in a beautiful mountain setting.

Day 3: Exploring Tea and Tribal Villages

Morning visits to the Pothamedu View Point and the Munnar Tea Museum offer insight into how this region became a tea powerhouse. The museum details the history and growth of tea plantations, giving context to the sweeping vistas.

One traveler raves, “The tea museum preserves the aspects of the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala’s mountain region,” and you’ll love the walk through organic plantations and the chance to see high-altitude gardens and waterfalls on a jeep ride. This ride takes you into tribal areas and forested villages, offering opportunities to see elephants and waterfalls—an authentic encounter with Kerala’s wilderness.

Day 4: Into the Hills of Thekkady

Next, a drive to Thekkady sets the stage for wildlife and spice experiences. The highlight here is a spice plantation tour, which many reviews describe as captivating. You’ll wander through farms cultivating different spices, learning about Kerala’s spice trade legacy.

The journey also offers scenic views of plantations and hills, making the drive equally engaging. One reviewer wrote, “The spice plantations are captivating farms to wander in,” and you’ll find yourself inhaling the fragrant scents of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

Day 5: Wildlife and Cultural Shows

Early morning, you’ll head into Periyar National Park for a jungle walk and bamboo rafting. The experience lasts around six hours and offers a real sense of being in the wild. Expect to see elephants and possibly tigers, as the sanctuary is famous for its tiger and elephant reserves.

Post-activity, you’ll have leisure time before attending a Kathakali dance performance, a striking classical art form characterized by elaborate costumes and expressive gestures. Reviewers highlight the quality of guides and the care taken in organizing these activities, noting that “visiting the sanctuary will be like exploring the nature around, enjoying the pristine and peaceful atmosphere.”

Day 6: Serene Kumarakom

A short drive (about an hour and a half) brings you to Kumarakom, a quiet village on Vembanad Lake. The area is famous for its flora, birdlife, and backwaters. Many travelers find Kumarakom to be a tranquil retreat, perfect for relaxing after busy days.

You might enjoy a guided village walk, discovering local life in this peaceful setting. It’s a chance to see everyday activities like fishing and toddy tapping, as one reviewer describes, “Visiting a local village will give an experience beyond imagination for the travelers who look for something different.”

Day 7: Backwaters and Houseboat Experience

The highlight for many is the Alleppey backwaters, where you’ll cruise on a traditional houseboat—a floating hotel—through scenic waterways. The Shikara boat ride during the village tour offers a taste of Kerala’s aquatic culture, with detailed craftsmanship and local dishes enjoyed onboard.

Multiple reviews praise the spectacular local dishes served on the houseboat, and the experience of drifting through the tranquil waters is unforgettable. One reviewer stated, “The Alleppey houseboat was a highlight with spectacular local dishes served with flair,” emphasizing the connection between cuisine and culture.

Day 8: Farewell and Return

After breakfast on the houseboat, you’ll be transferred back to Kochi Airport for your departure. The seamless organization and attention to detail—like timely airport transfers—are consistently praised, leaving you with a smooth parting from Kerala.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Looking at the balance of price ($1,790 per person) versus what’s included—accommodations, meals, guides, transportation, and entry fees—this trip provides substantial value. Reviews mention the professionalism of guides and drivers, with many noting how they went beyond expectations, sometimes showing extra places or sharing local insights.

The variety of experiences, from cultural performances to wildlife safaris to scenic houseboats, means you get to see Kerala from many angles. Staying in boutique hotels, traditional homestays, and the houseboat, you’ll experience both comfort and authenticity.

The guided activities—like village walks, jungle safaris, and spice plantation tours—are well-organized, offering a deep dive into local life and natural beauty. Since sightseeing and entry fees are included, you won’t have to worry about extra costs sneaking up on you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who value personalized attention and a well-structured itinerary that balances sightseeing with leisure. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a comprehensive Kerala experience, especially those who enjoy cultural performances and scenic landscapes.

People who appreciate local guides, authentic experiences, and comfortable accommodations will find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with some travel time—long drives are part of the journey—but they’re worth it for the views and experiences.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, it is an entirely private experience, ensuring only your group participates, which allows for customized flexibility.

What’s included in the price? Accommodation for 7 nights, most meals (including breakfasts and some lunches/dinners), sightseeing tours, entry fees, and guided activities are included.

How long are the drives between destinations? Expect approximately 5 hours from Kochi to Munnar, with similar durations for other transfers, so be prepared for some long travel days.

Are guides available during sightseeing? Yes, all sightseeing includes guides, and they are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, enhancing your understanding of each place.

Can I customize the itinerary? As a private tour, there’s flexibility, and reviews suggest that the itinerary can be adapted to suit your interests and pace.

Are activities suitable for all fitness levels? Moderate physical activity is involved, especially during jungle walks and village tours. Wear comfortable shoes and long pants for jungle activities.

Is the houseboat stay included? Yes, a night on a traditional houseboat is part of the package, providing a unique perspective on Kerala’s waterways.

What about the cultural shows? Guided entry to Kathakali dance and Kalaripayattu martial arts are included, giving a taste of Kerala’s rich artistic traditions.

Is this tour suitable for families? The activities are family-friendly, but some excursions—like jungle walks—may require a basic level of fitness and comfort with outdoor activities.

What’s the best time to take this trip? The tour details don’t specify seasons, but Kerala’s best months are generally from October to March when the weather is cooler and dry.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day private journey through Kerala captures the essence of the region—its history, landscapes, wildlife, and culture—while offering a well-organized, flexible experience. The carefully curated itinerary ensures you won’t miss the highlights like Kochi’s colonial charm, Munnar’s tea-scented hills, and Alleppey’s tranquil backwaters.

We especially recommend this trip for travelers who want a curated, authentic taste of Kerala without the stress of planning. The inclusion of cultural performances, guided village walks, and a houseboat stay makes it a rich, memorable experience that balances comfort and adventure.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded introduction to Kerala that combines scenic beauty, cultural depth, and genuine local encounters, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a journey that can leave you with a deep appreciation for this lush, vibrant part of India—and plenty of stories to tell long after you return.

Note: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be amended once booked, so it’s best suited for travelers who are confident of their dates and plans.