Private Multi-Day Kerala Tour

A Hands-On Journey Through Kerala’s Wonders

Imagine spending nine days exploring Kerala, often called “God’s Country,” with a knowledgeable guide leading you through its most iconic sights. For around $790 per person, this private, tailor-made itinerary offers a blend of bustling cities, lush waterfalls, hill stations, and peaceful backwaters—all with the convenience of private transport and personalized attention. From the moment we land in Kochi, the tour sets a pace that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic encounters.

What stood out most for us? First, the way the itinerary combines historical sites like the Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue with the serene beauty of Athirappilly Waterfalls. Second, the experience of drifting along the backwaters in a traditional houseboat—a quintessential Kerala moment that’s hard to beat. The only consideration? The tour’s pace can be quite full, so if you prefer slow, unstructured mornings, some days might feel busy.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Kerala without the hassle of planning each detail. It suits those curious about Kerala’s cultural heritage, natural scenery, and local life, especially if you appreciate guided experiences that include both sightseeing and leisure.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers diverse highlights from Kochi’s history to hill stations and backwaters.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes visits to local markets, historic buildings, and tribal villages.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transport, hotel stays, and all major entrance fees included.
• Cultural Enrichment: Enjoy Kerala’s traditional dance performances and historical architecture.
• Natural Beauty: From Athirappilly Falls to tea plantations and wildlife parks.
• Value for Money: At just under $800, includes many key attractions and activities.

Exploring Kochi: A Perfect Start

The tour kicks off in Kochi, a city that wonderfully blends Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Upon arrival, a local guide greets you and takes you on a walk through the Jewish Town, where the 1568 Jewish Synagogue still stands as a testament to Kerala’s diverse heritage. You’ll visit the Dutch Palace, originally built by the Portuguese, now a museum filled with rajas’ artifacts.

We loved the Chinese fishing nets along the waterfront—an iconic sight that’s both photogenic and lively. In the evening, the performance of Kerala’s classical dance—probably Kathakali or Mohiniyattam—provides a cultural flourish that’s both entertaining and educational. We found these performances to be a highlight, giving us a taste of Kerala’s performing arts.

The day includes a walk through Spice Market, where the aroma of spices like cardamom, turmeric, and cinnamon fills the air. It’s a sensory overload in the best way, and a terrific introduction to Kerala’s famed spice trade. The Mattancherry Palace adds a regal touch, with its murals and history, while Fort Kochi’s colonial architecture transports you back in time.

Awe-Inspiring Waterfalls & Nature

From Kochi, the journey takes you to Athirappilly Waterfalls, often called the “Niagara of India.” Surrounded by lush greenery, the falls offer some of the most striking natural scenery in Kerala. We appreciated the chance to stroll around the area, take photos, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. It’s an ideal spot to unwind after city touring, and the natural beauty here is truly captivating.

The nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls complements this experience, making it a perfect day for nature lovers and those in need of a break from urban life. The area is also a good escape for anyone wanting to connect with Kerala’s vibrant ecosystems.

Munnar: The Hill Station Escape

The next leg leads you to Munnar, a hill station famed for its tea plantations and cool climate. The drive itself offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, which form a dramatic backdrop to the lush landscape. We enjoyed the leisurely pace of this part of the trip, giving us time to savor the mountain scenery.

In Munnar, you’ll visit the Kannan Devan Tea Museum, where you’ll learn about the origins of tea cultivation and see historic machinery still in operation. The tea plantations are as picturesque as you’d expect, with rolling green hills stretching to the horizon.

Our favorite stop was the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park also boasts the spectacular Anamudi Peak, South India’s highest point at over 2700 meters. We found the park’s misty slopes and blooming Neelakurinji—a plant that flowers once every twelve years—a surreal experience. Trekking here offers a real sense of the wilderness, and the views are unmatched.

Exploring Munnar’s Rich Landscape

Over the following day, we continued exploring Munnar, with stops at Mattupetty, famous for its lake and dam, ideal for boat rides—and the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project with its high-yielding cows. We also visited Pallivasal, the site of Kerala’s first hydroelectric project, which offers scenic views and a quiet picnic spot.

The day culminates with more sightseeing, including Christ Church and additional panoramic vistas of Anamudi. The balance between natural beauty, history, and local flavor makes Munnar a highlight of the tour.

Periyar: Wildlife & Tribal Cultures

From Munnar, the tour heads south to Periyar, another biodiversity hotspot. The Periyar National Park is renowned for its elephants, tigers, and birdlife. We loved the boat ride on Periyar Lake, a peaceful way to spot wildlife and enjoy the lush surroundings.

The experience of visiting tribal villages offers an authentic window into Kerala’s indigenous cultures, adding depth to the trip. The park is large enough to allow for encounters with some of India’s most iconic animals, including elephants and possibly tigers, though sightings depend on luck and timing.

Backwaters & Coastal Relaxation

One of the tour’s most iconic experiences is cruising the Kerala backwaters in a traditional houseboat. At Alleppey, you’ll spend a night on an air-conditioned houseboat, drifting through quiet, palm-fringed waterways. The experience of gliding past village life, watching locals work and children play, is genuinely unique. We enjoyed the sunset and the peaceful vibe—a highlight that justifies the tour’s value.

Afterward, your journey continues to Kovalam, a laid-back beach town with golden sands and a famous lighthouse. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind, soak up the sun, or try a local Ayurvedic massage—an optional treat that many travelers appreciate.

Final Cultural Stops in Trivandrum

The last leg includes a full day in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), visiting the Padmanabha Swami Temple, considered one of the richest temples in the world. The blend of Kerala and Dravidian architecture offers a visual feast. We also explored the zoo, museum, and historic buildings, rounding out a well-balanced trip that covers both cultural and natural highlights.

Overall Value & Experience

At roughly $790, this tour offers good value considering the included transportation, major attractions, and guided experiences. The private nature of the tour means you can customize or spend more time at your favorite spots, which adds flexibility to an already well-structured itinerary. The inclusion of meals, entrance fees (where noted), and accommodations makes this a hassle-free way to explore Kerala comprehensively.

The reviews reflect satisfaction, with travelers describing their experience as “memorable,” thanks to friendly staff, smooth logistics, and the chance to see Kerala’s stunning landscapes and authentic sights. One reviewer appreciated how the company was with them at every point of concern, highlighting the peace of mind that comes with private guided travel.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 9-day Kerala tour is ideal for those wanting a well-rounded experience of India’s “God’s Own Country”—combining history, nature, wildlife, and culture. It’s suited for first-time visitors who prefer the comfort of private transport and guided visits, as well as travelers eager to see a lot without the stress of planning each detail.

If you love scenic landscapes, cultural performances, and authentic local experiences, this tour delivers them all. Families, couples, and solo explorers who appreciate balanced itineraries with leisure and sightseeing will find this a worthwhile adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation as per the itinerary is included, and it’s private, ensuring a comfortable and flexible experience.

Are meals included in the tour price?
Breakfasts are included for all nine days, and the houseboat experience covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you can discuss preferences with your guide or tour operator, but the package follows the outlined schedule.

What is the accommodation like?
While specific hotels aren’t listed, the tour mentions staying at hotels in each location, likely comfortable and suited for travelers seeking convenience.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the itinerary’s mix of cultural, natural, and leisure activities makes it family-friendly, especially with private transport and flexible pacing.

How physically demanding is the trip?
Some days involve walking, sightseeing, and boat rides, so moderate fitness helps, but the tour is generally manageable for most travelers.

Are entrance fees included?
Some attractions, like the tea museum and houseboat, include entrance fees, but others, like Eravikulam Park, are not included.

What should I pack?
Light clothing, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and possibly a light raincoat—considering the varied climate from coast to hills.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Definitely. The private nature makes solo travelers feel secure and comfortable with personalized arrangements.

In all, this Kerala tour offers a rich, insightful experience into one of India’s most beautiful regions. With its blend of cultural landmarks, natural scenery, and authentic local life, it’s a trip that promises both memorable sights and meaningful encounters.