Kerala is a state located in the southwestern part of India, known for its scenic beauty, backwaters, beaches, and wildlife. Kerala tours offer visitors the opportunity to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of the region.
Some popular destinations to visit on Kerala tours include the hill station of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom, the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, and the wildlife sanctuaries of Periyar and Wayanad. The state is also known for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments, which many visitors come to experience.
Kerala tours often include a mix of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Visitors can take a houseboat tour through the backwaters, witness traditional Kathakali dance performances, explore tea and spice plantations, and even go on jungle safaris to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife.
When planning a Kerala tour, it’s important to consider the time of year, as the monsoon season can affect certain activities and travel plans. It’s also important to research the tour operator and read reviews from past customers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Kerala tours can range in length from a few days to several weeks, depending on the itinerary and the traveler’s preferences.
Best Kerala Tours in India
| Cochin: Half-Day Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise | Kochi: Private Backwater Houseboat Day Cruise with Transfers | From Kochi: 2-Day Alappuzha Backwaters Houseboat Cruise | |
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| Duration | 5 - 6 hours | 7 hours | 2 days |
| Starting Time | 8:30 AM | 10:00 AM | 10:30 AM |
| Meeting Point | Princess St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi | Cochin Hotels | Cochin Hotels |
| Includes | Pickup and drop-off , Vegetarian Lunch , Cruise by covered country boat | Sightseeing and excursion Evening tea and snacks on boat cruise r houseboat cruise with lunch | Pickup and drop-off , cruise , meals Overnight stay in deluxe category houseboat |
| More Details & Tour Booking | More Details & Tour Booking | More Details & Tour Booking |
Quick Answer: The 5 Best Kerala Tours in India For [2024]
- Cochin: Half-Day Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise
- Kochi: Private Backwater Houseboat Day Cruise with Transfers
- From Kochi: 2-Day Alappuzha Backwaters Houseboat Cruise
- Backwater Houseboat and Fort Kochi Tour from Cochin Port
- Fort Kochi & Mattanchery 3-Hour Walking Tour
Best Kerala Tours in India Reviews
#1. Cochin: Half-Day Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise
A half-day backwater village eco boat cruise in Cochin, also known as Kochi, is an excellent way to explore the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, India. Here’s what you can expect from such a tour:
The tour usually begins in the morning, and you will be picked up from your hotel or a designated meeting point. From there, you will be driven to the starting point of the boat cruise, which could be in one of the nearby villages.
Once you board the boat, you will be greeted by a friendly guide who will provide you with an introduction to the tour and the backwaters. The boat will then start cruising through the serene waterways, and you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views.
You will get to see some of the traditional village life of Kerala, including fishing activities, coir making, and toddy tapping. You will also pass by lush green rice paddies, palm groves, and small hamlets on the banks of the backwaters.
During the tour, you will get to taste some of the local delicacies like fresh fish curry, steamed rice, and tapioca. You can also buy some local handicrafts and souvenirs from the villages.
Overall, a half-day backwater village eco boat cruise in Cochin is a great way to experience the natural beauty and local culture of Kerala. It’s a perfect option for those who have limited time in the area but still want to experience the backwaters.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#2. Kochi: Private Backwater Houseboat Day Cruise with Transfers
A private backwater houseboat day cruise in Kochi, also known as Cochin, is an amazing way to explore the serene backwaters of Kerala, India. Here’s what you can expect from such a tour:
The tour usually begins in the morning, and you will be picked up from your hotel or a designated meeting point. From there, you will be driven to the starting point of the backwater cruise, which could be in one of the nearby villages.
Once you reach the starting point, you will board a private houseboat that is exclusively reserved for you and your group. The houseboat is a traditional Kettuvallam, made out of eco-friendly materials like bamboo and coir.
As you embark on the houseboat, you will be greeted by a friendly crew who will take care of all your needs during the tour. The houseboat will then start cruising through the tranquil backwaters, passing by picturesque villages, lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and small hamlets on the banks of the backwaters.
You will get to enjoy a delicious lunch on board, which includes traditional Kerala cuisine, freshly cooked by the crew. You can also relax on the deck and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the backwaters.
During the tour, you can also opt for activities like fishing, village walk, bird watching, and canoeing at an additional cost.
After the tour, the houseboat will dock at the starting point, and you will be driven back to your hotel or a designated drop-off point.
Overall, a private backwater houseboat day cruise in Kochi is a luxurious and memorable way to experience the natural beauty and local culture of Kerala. It’s a perfect option for couples, families, or groups of friends who want to indulge in a unique and unforgettable backwater experience.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#3. From Kochi: 2-Day Alappuzha Backwaters Houseboat Cruise
The backwaters of Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, are a beautiful network of canals, lagoons and lakes that flow into the Arabian Sea. A houseboat cruise along these backwaters is a popular activity among tourists visiting Kerala, India.
If you’re planning to take a 2-day Alappuzha backwaters houseboat cruise from Kochi, here’s what you can expect:
Day 1: Kochi to Alappuzha
You will be picked up from your hotel in Kochi and driven to Alappuzha, which is about 53 km away. Once you reach Alappuzha, you will board your houseboat and embark on your backwaters cruise. As you sail along the backwaters, you’ll pass through picturesque villages, coconut groves, and paddy fields. You can also catch a glimpse of the local life and culture of the people living along the backwaters.
You will be served traditional Kerala cuisine on board the houseboat, which includes rice, sambar, aviyal, thoran, and fish curry. In the evening, the houseboat will anchor at a scenic spot where you can relax and watch the sunset.
Day 2: Alappuzha to Kochi
On the second day, you’ll continue your houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alappuzha. You can spend the morning enjoying the serene beauty of the backwaters or try your hand at fishing.
After breakfast, the houseboat will sail back to the starting point in Alappuzha, where you’ll disembark and be driven back to your hotel in Kochi.
Overall, a 2-day Alappuzha backwaters houseboat cruise from Kochi is a great way to experience the natural beauty and culture of Kerala. You can choose from different types of houseboats, depending on your budget and preferences. Some houseboats come with air-conditioned bedrooms, while others have open-air decks where you can enjoy the views.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#4. Backwater Houseboat and Fort Kochi Tour from Cochin Port
If you’re arriving at the Cochin Port and looking for a day tour that combines a backwater houseboat cruise with a visit to Fort Kochi, here’s what you can expect:
Your tour guide will meet you at the Cochin Port and take you on a scenic drive to Alleppey, which is about 60 km away. Once you reach Alleppey, you will board your houseboat and embark on your backwaters cruise.
As you sail along the backwaters, you’ll witness the picturesque villages, coconut groves, and paddy fields. You can also catch a glimpse of the local life and culture of the people living along the backwaters. You will be served traditional Kerala cuisine on board the houseboat, which includes rice, sambar, aviyal, thoran, and fish curry.
After the houseboat cruise, you will be driven to Fort Kochi, which is about an hour’s drive away. Fort Kochi is a historic district of Kochi, where you can find colonial-era buildings, churches, and synagogues.
You’ll visit some of the most popular attractions in Fort Kochi, such as the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and the Santa Cruz Basilica. You’ll also have some time to explore the local markets and shop for souvenirs.
Your tour guide will then drive you back to the Cochin Port, where your tour will end.
Overall, a backwater houseboat and Fort Kochi tour from Cochin Port is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Kerala in a single day. You’ll get to see the best of both worlds and make the most of your time in Cochin.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#5. Fort Kochi & Mattanchery 3-Hour Walking Tour
If you’re looking to explore the historical and cultural aspects of Fort Kochi and Mattanchery, a 3-hour walking tour is a great way to do so. Here’s what you can expect on this tour:
Your tour guide will meet you at a designated meeting point, and you’ll start your tour by exploring Fort Kochi. Fort Kochi is a historic district of Kochi, where you can find colonial-era buildings, churches, and synagogues.
You’ll visit some of the most popular attractions in Fort Kochi, such as the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, the Santa Cruz Basilica, and the Dutch Palace. Your tour guide will provide you with interesting historical and cultural insights about these attractions.
After exploring Fort Kochi, you’ll walk to the nearby Mattanchery area. Mattanchery is a vibrant neighborhood known for its spice markets, antique shops, and street art. You’ll get to explore the narrow streets and alleys of Mattanchery, which are filled with colorful houses and shops.
You’ll visit the Jewish Synagogue, which is one of the oldest synagogues in India. You’ll also get to see the Mattanchery Palace, which was the residence of the Maharaja of Kochi. Your tour guide will provide you with insights into the history and culture of these attractions.
Finally, you’ll end your tour at the spice markets of Mattanchery, where you’ll get to experience the aromas of the different spices and herbs that are grown and traded in the region.
Overall, a 3-hour walking tour of Fort Kochi and Mattanchery is an excellent way to experience the historical and cultural aspects of Kochi. You’ll get to see some of the most iconic attractions and learn about the fascinating history and culture of the region.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
Francis Porter is a seasoned traveler and tour guide with over 15 years of experience in the industry. I have explored countless destinations around the world and have a deep passion for helping others discover new places and cultures.