Exploring Kerala: An 8-Day Private Tour with Houseboat Stay

If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines lush hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, stunning beaches, and a peaceful houseboat cruise, this Kerala private tour is worth considering. For $700 per person, you’ll spend eight days soaking in the diverse landscapes of this south Indian jewel, starting in Kochi and ending in Trivandrum. This carefully curated journey features comfortable private transport and thoughtfully selected accommodations with breakfasts included.

Two things stand out to us: First, the variety of experiences packed into a manageable timeframe—mountains, wildlife, backwaters, and beaches—giving you a true taste of Kerala’s essence. Second, the personalized nature of this tour, only your group participating, which means more flexibility and comfort compared to larger group trips.

One consideration worth noting is that entrance tickets are not included—so you’ll want to budget for those if you plan on visiting specific attractions like Eravikulam National Park or the Padmanabhaswami temple.

This tour is perfect for families or couples seeking an immersive yet relaxed introduction to Kerala’s highlights, without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

Key Points

Diverse Itinerary: Combines hill stations, wildlife, tea estates, beaches, and backwaters.
Private Transport: Comfortable and private, ideal for relaxed sightseeing.
Accommodation with Breakfasts: Ensures a good start to each day.
Houseboat Experience: One night cruising Kerala’s famous backwaters.
Flexible & Personalized: Only your group participates, enhancing comfort.
Cost & Value: At $700, it offers a comprehensive experience with many highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the 8-Day Kerala Tour

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First Impressions – Starting in Kochi and Moving to Munnar

The journey begins with your pickup at Kochi airport, where a representative will greet you and whisk you off to Munnar. This scenic drive, which includes stops at waterfalls, sets the tone for the trip—expect lush greenery, mountain air, and a slow pace. Munnar’s cool climate and tea plantations make it a favorite for many travelers.

The hotel check-in offers a welcome rest, and from here, you’ll get your first taste of Kerala’s natural beauty. The relaxed start is ideal for adjusting after travel and preparing for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Exploring Munnar’s Natural Wonders

The second day is packed with highlights. Visiting Eravikulam National Park (though entrance tickets aren’t included) offers a chance to see the famed Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy sweeping views of the Western Ghats. Many reviews mention the park’s beauty and the opportunity to spot wildlife, which truly adds to the experience.

Next, a stop at Mattupetty Dam provides scenic views and a peek into hydroelectric development—a vital part of Kerala’s infrastructure. Then, a visit to Echo Point reveals the fun of hearing your shouts bounce back amidst misty hills and tea estates.

What we appreciate here is how each stop offers something different: wildlife, engineering marvels, and fun with nature’s acoustics. It’s a good mix that keeps the day engaging without feeling rushed.

Day 3-4: Into the Wild at Periyar

After breakfast, the drive takes you to Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, the standout activity is the boat cruise on Lake Periyar, where you might spot elephants, Indian Gaur, and various birds. Many travelers have enjoyed this close encounter with nature, as reflected in reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see wildlife at close quarters.

Spending the afternoon exploring spice plantations adds an aromatic touch to the trip, and optional activities like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances can deepen your cultural appreciation of Kerala.

Day 4’s focus on the protected wildlife and lush surroundings offers a genuine sense of the natural environment, making it clear why Kerala’s forests are treasured.

Day 5: Backwaters and Houseboat Serenity

One of the highlights is the overnight stay on a traditional Kerala houseboat. After checking out from Thekkady, a drive to Alleppey begins. You’ll board a houseboat that will glide through the palm-fringed canals and paddy fields, providing a peaceful and intimate experience with Kerala’s famous backwaters.

Many reviews emphasize how magical this part of the tour is, describing the lullaby of wind and waves, and the endless miles of calm water. It’s a chance to relax, unwind, and connect with the slow pace of life—an experience often marked as unforgettable.

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Day 6-7: Beaches and Cultural Insights in Kovalam and Trivandrum

After disembarking from the houseboat, the journey continues to Kovalam, renowned for its white sandy beaches and surfable waves. This is the perfect spot to relax, watch sunsets, or enjoy some leisure time at your own pace.

The next day, a visit to Trivandrum (or Thiruvananthapuram) allows you to explore historic sites such as the Padmanabhaswami Temple, Napier Museum, and local markets. The Poovar backwaters offer optional boating, providing yet another scenic perspective of Kerala’s water-based life.

Many travelers comment on the good quality hotels and the helpful, courteous staff, which enhances the overall comfort of the trip.

Last Day: Farewell and Departure

The tour concludes with a breakfast and a drop-off at Trivandrum Airport. It’s a straightforward end, leaving you with plenty of wonderful memories and a sense of having experienced Kerala’s diversity.

Practical Considerations and Value

The cost of $700 per person for this itinerary reflects good value, considering the inclusion of private transportation, a houseboat stay, and multiple diverse experiences. While you’ll need to budget separately for entrance fees, the convenience of having a tailored, guided experience pays off in ease and comfort.

The private nature of the tour means fewer surprises and more flexibility, which many reviews praise. The accommodation standard appears to meet expectations, with many travelers mentioning the good quality of hotels, though some noted that a few hotels weren’t exactly as booked—something to clarify with your tour operator.

Timing-wise, it’s a popular booking, often reserved around 100 days in advance, suggesting it’s in demand for those planning well ahead. Start times are early—around 5:30 am—so be prepared for some early mornings, but it’s worth it for the scenic views and optimal sightseeing hours.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This journey suits families and couples wanting a comprehensive, seamless introduction to Kerala’s highlights. It’s ideal for those interested in nature, wildlife, cultural sites, and a bit of relaxation. If you’re after a packed itinerary that balances activity with downtime, and you value personalized service and comfort, this tour offers a solid package.

Final Notes

Kerala’s landscape is remarkably varied, and this tour captures its essence—from the cool heights of Munnar to the lively backwaters and tranquil beaches. The expert guides and well-chosen stops ensure your time is well spent, and many travelers mention the good value for money.

If you’re looking for a balanced, authentic experience that covers essential sights without feeling rushed, this private tour could be just right. It’s especially suited if you prefer a more personalized journey and want to enjoy Kerala’s natural beauty with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

FAQs

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is a fully private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering a more relaxed and flexible experience.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You should plan to pay for specific attractions like Eravikulam National Park or Padmanabhaswami temple separately.

What’s the accommodation like?
The tour includes accommodations with breakfasts, and many reviews mention the hotels are of a good standard, providing comfort and convenience.

How long is the houseboat stay?
You’ll spend one night on a houseboat cruising Kerala’s backwaters, an experience many reviews describe as magical and peaceful.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, private transportation is provided and is described as suitable and comfortable, often with good air conditioning.

What are the main highlights?
Expect hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, spice plantations, beaches, and the unforgettable houseboat experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the varied and family-friendly activities suggest it could be suitable for families, especially those with older children.

What’s the best time to book?
The tour is typically booked around 100 days in advance, indicating it’s popular and best to plan early.

To sum it up, this 8-day private Kerala tour offers a well-rounded experience blending nature, culture, and relaxation. It’s perfect for travelers who want an intimate, flexible way to explore one of India’s most enchanting regions, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Kerala at its most beautiful.