Pocket Kerala Tour Package: From Cochin
5 Nights / 6 Days serene southern journey from Cochin to Munnar tea gardens, Thekkady wildlife, Alleppey backwaters, Jatayu Earth's Center & Kovalam beaches.
💰 Package Pricing (Per Person)
Choose from our flexible package options tailored to your travel preference:
Land Package
All-Inclusive (Sleeper)
3 AC Class Upgrade
✨ Itinerary Highlights
- Munnar Tea Gardens, Valara & Cheeyappara Waterfalls, Pothamedu Viewpoint & Rose Garden.
- Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai - home to Nilgiri Tahr) & spice plantation tours.
- Thekkady Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary cruise, elephant rides & live Kathakali & Kalaripayattu shows.
- Alleppey backwater cruise & serene stay (Optional Deluxe Houseboat upgrade available).
- Jatayu Earth’s Center – World's Largest Bird Sculpture based on the epic Ramayana.
- Kovalam Beach, Varkala Beach, Azhimala Siva Temple (38 ft statue) & Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
🗓️ Detailed 5 Nights / 6 Days Itinerary
DAY 1 Cochin Arrival to Munnar (En-route Waterfalls & Spice Gardens)
- Pickup: Ernakulam Junction (South) at ~9:00 AM and Cochin Airport at ~10:00 AM.
- Drive to Munnar through scenic mountain roads. En-route visit Valara Waterfalls and Cheeyappara Waterfalls.
- Visit lush Spice Plantations to witness cardamom, pepper, and tea estates.
- Check-in to hotel in Munnar. Enjoy a delicious dinner and relax.
DAY 2 Full Day Munnar Local Sightseeing & National Park
- Start morning with a healthy breakfast at the hotel.
- Explore famous Munnar attractions: Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Dam Lake.
- Visit Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai), habitat of the rare Nilgiri Tahr mountain goat (as per govt guidelines).
- Stroll through the colorful Rose Garden and indulge in local tea town shopping.
DAY 3 Munnar to Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife & Cultural Performances)
- Breakfast at hotel and check-out by 8:00 AM. Drive to Thekkady (Periyar).
- Afternoon optional boat cruise on Periyar Lake to spot wild elephants, deer, monkeys & birds along the sanctuary banks.
- Evening cultural treat: Enjoy live performances of Kalaripayattu (ancient martial arts) & Kathakali (classical dance).
- Check-in to hotel in Thekkady followed by dinner.
DAY 4 Thekkady to Alleppey (Backwater Cruise & Serene Stay)
- Breakfast and check-out from hotel. Drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha) – Venice of the East.
- Experience the serene Alleppey Backwaters with a scenic backwater cruise through palm-shaded canals and villages.
- *Optional Upgrade:* Select Deluxe Houseboat stay to enjoy traditional Kerala Lunch & overnight backwater sailing.
- Check-in to hotel/houseboat and enjoy dinner.
DAY 5 Alleppey to Kovalam / Trivandrum (Jatayu Earth's Center & Beaches)
- Breakfast and check-out.
- Visit the magnificent Jatayu Earth’s Center – World’s Largest Bird Sculpture based on the Ramayana epic.
- Proceed to Kovalam. Visit Varkala Beach and Kovalam Beach (time permitting).
- Check-in to hotel in Kovalam/Trivandrum and enjoy dinner.
DAY 6 Trivandrum City Sightseeing & Return to Cochin Drop
- Enjoy breakfast at hotel and check-out.
- City tour: Visit Kovalam Beach, Azhimala Siva Temple (38 ft statue of Lord Shiva), Trivandrum Museum, and Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
- Evening drive back to Cochin (late night arrival).
- Drop at Ernakulam Junction Railway Station / Cochin Airport with cherished memories of Kerala!
✅ What's Included
- 5 Nights Accommodation: 2 Nights Munnar, 1 Night Thekkady, 1 Night Alleppey, 1 Night Kovalam/Trivandrum.
- 10 Curated Meals: 5 Daily Breakfasts & 5 Dinners at hotels/resorts.
- Cultural Show Tickets: Entry tickets for Kalaripayattu Martial Arts & Kathakali Dance show in Thekkady.
- Complete Transfers: All transfers & sightseeing by suitable AC Vehicle ex-Cochin.
- Taxes & Permits: All toll taxes, parking fees, driver allowance & state permits included.
- Assistance & Support: Assistance on arrival + 24/7 Virtual Travel Manager app support.
❌ What's Not Included
- Airfare or Train tickets from your originating city (available as optional add-ons).
- Entry tickets to monuments, parks (Eravikulam NP), museums, Jatayu cable car/entry tickets, Periyar boating slips, elephant rides, etc.
- Personal expenses (Laundry, soft/hard drinks, mineral water, room heaters, tips, etc.).
- Meals not specified in inclusions (Lunches, unless Deluxe Houseboat upgrade selected).
- Expenses incurred due to natural calamities, landslides, strikes, weather disruptions, or flight/train cancellations.
Important Travel Notes & Guidelines
- Pickup Schedule: Pick-up from Ernakulam Junction (South) at ~9:00 AM & Cochin Airport at ~10:00 AM on Day 1.
- Return Schedule: Drop at Ernakulam Station/Airport late night on Day 6. Please book return flight/train after 3:00 AM on Day 7 from Cochin (or after 9:00 PM on Day 6 from Trivandrum).
- Room AC Policy: Non-AC rooms provided at hill stations (Munnar & Thekkady) as climate is naturally cool. In Deluxe Houseboats, AC operates from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM. AC is available at all other hotel stay locations.
Complete Kerala Travel Guide: Questions & Answers
Best Time to Visit Kerala
When is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant with temperatures between 20-32°C, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. This period is ideal for exploring backwaters, hill stations, and beaches. October-November offers post-monsoon greenery and fewer crowds.
What is Kerala's weather like in winter?
Winter (December-February) is the peak tourist season with pleasant temperatures (20-28°C), clear skies, and low humidity. Hill stations like Munnar can be cool (10-18°C), requiring light jackets. Backwaters and beaches remain warm and enjoyable.
Is Kerala good during monsoon?
Yes, monsoon (June-September) transforms Kerala into a lush green paradise with heavy rainfall (300-500mm/month). It's perfect for Ayurvedic treatments (best season), eco-tourism, and budget travel with 30-40% discounts. However, outdoor activities and beach visits are limited.
Cost of Kerala Trip
How much does a Kerala trip cost?
A Kerala trip costs approximately ₹15,000-35,000 per person for 4-7 days. Budget travelers can spend ₹6,000-10,000/day covering accommodation, food, and local transport. Mid-range packages (₹10,000-20,000/day) include 3-4 star hotels, meals, and sightseeing. Luxury experiences with houseboats and resorts start at ₹25,000+ per day.
What is the cheapest way to travel in Kerala?
The cheapest way is to use state transport buses (₹100-500 between major cities), stay in budget homestays (₹800-1,500/night), eat at local restaurants (₹150-300/meal), and use auto-rickshaws or local trains. Houseboat budget options start at ₹3,000-4,000/day for shared rooms.
Are Kerala houseboats expensive?
Kerala houseboats range from ₹3,000-15,000+ per night. Budget houseboats (₹3,000-5,000) offer basic amenities. Mid-range (₹6,000-10,000) include meals and comfortable rooms. Luxury houseboats (₹12,000+) feature AC, premium meals, and private decks. Book directly with operators for better rates.
Visa Requirements for Kerala
Do I need a visa to visit Kerala?
Indian citizens do not need a visa as Kerala is part of India. Foreign tourists need an Indian eTourist visa (30-180 days) obtainable online. Some nationalities qualify for visa-on-arrival. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity. Check latest requirements on the Indian government's e-visa portal.
Best Hotels & Accommodation
What are the best hotels in Kerala?
Popular options: Munnar: Windermere Estate, Tea County, Blackberry Hills. Thekkady: Spice Village, Periyar House, Nature Zone. Alleppey: Premium houseboats, Kumarakom Lake Resort. Cochin: Brunton Boatyard, Taj Malabar, Le Meridien. Budget homestays available across all destinations (₹1,000-2,500/night).
Should I stay in a houseboat in Alleppey?
Yes, a houseboat stay is a quintessential Kerala experience. Choose between day cruises (₹1,500-2,500) or overnight stays (₹3,000-10,000+). Book AC houseboats in summer (Mar-May). Non-AC houseboats are comfortable in winter. Ensure the houseboat has a clean bathroom and safety equipment.
Are homestays safe in Kerala?
Yes, Kerala homestays are generally safe and offer authentic experiences. Most are family-run with verified reviews on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. Look for homestays with good ratings, host verification, and 24/7 check-in. Popular areas: Fort Kochi, Wayanad, Varkala.
How to Reach Kerala
What are the flight options to Kerala?
Kerala has 4 international airports: Cochin (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), Calicut (CCJ), and Kannur (CNN). Domestic flights from major cities start at ₹2,000-6,000. International flights connect to Middle East, Singapore, and Maldives. Pre-book 2-3 months ahead for best fares. Use Cochin airport for central Kerala destinations.
Can I travel Kerala by train?
Yes, Kerala has an extensive railway network. Major stations: Ernakulam (Cochin), Trivandrum, Thrissur, Kozhikode. Trains from Bangalore (6-8 hours, ₹500-1,500), Chennai (12-14 hours, ₹800-2,000), Mumbai (24+ hours). Book via IRCTC 2-3 months in advance. Scenic routes: Nilambur-Shoranur, Konkan Railway.
How to travel within Kerala?
Options: Self-drive cars (₹2,500-4,000/day), hired cars with driver (₹2,000-3,500/day), state transport buses (cheapest), auto-rickshaws for short distances, and ferries in backwaters. For Munnar-Thekkady-Alleppey circuit, a car with driver is most convenient. KSRTC and private buses connect all major towns.
Food & Cuisine in Kerala
What is famous food in Kerala?
Must-try dishes: Appam with Stew, Puttu and Kadala Curry, Kerala Sadya (banana leaf meal), Fish Moilee, Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearlspot fish), Beef Fry with Parotta, tapioca dishes, banana fritters (Pazham Pori). Don't miss: Toddy (local palm wine), Payasam (dessert), and jackfruit dishes. Use coconut oil for authentic flavor.
Where to eat in Kerala?
Try local restaurants and toddy shops (Kallu Shappu) for authentic meals. Recommendations: Paragon (Kozhikode), Hotel Birayani (Kannur), Grand Hotel (Cochin), and small eateries in Kumarakom. Avoid hotel restaurants for local cuisine. Homestays often serve delicious home-cooked meals. Food costs: ₹150-400 per meal at local places.
Is Kerala vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, Kerala has excellent vegetarian food. Options: Kerala meals on banana leaf (₹150-300), appam, puttu, idiyappam, vegetable stew, and various dosas. Pure veg restaurants are common, especially in temples areas. Specify "vegetarian only" when booking hotels. Most houseboats offer vegetarian meal options.
Weather & Climate
What is Kerala's climate like?
Kerala has a tropical climate. Summer (Mar-May): 28-36°C, humid. Monsoon (Jun-Sept): 24-30°C, heavy rainfall. Winter (Oct-Feb): 20-28°C, pleasant, ideal for tourism. Hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad) are cooler (10-22°C). The state receives both southwest and northeast monsoons.
Does it rain year-round in Kerala?
No, Kerala has distinct wet and dry seasons. Monsoon months (June-September) receive heavy rain. October sees post-monsoon showers. December-March is dry with minimal rainfall. April-May can have occasional pre-monsoon thunderstorms. Always carry an umbrella during monsoon season.
Safety & Travel Tips
Is Kerala safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Kerala is one of India's safest states for solo travelers, including females. People are friendly and helpful. Take standard precautions: avoid isolated areas after dark, use licensed transport, keep belongings secure. Beaches like Varkala and Kovalam are popular with solo travelers. Homestays offer safe accommodations with local hosts.
Is Kerala safe for families?
Absolutely! Kerala is extremely family-friendly with clean beaches, gentle backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural attractions. Hill stations offer cool weather for kids. Choose family rooms in hotels or houseboats. Avoid crowded festivals if traveling with infants. Medical facilities are excellent throughout the state.
Are there any scams in Kerala?
Kerala has very few tourist scams compared to other Indian states. Occasional issues: overpriced taxi rides (use meter), inflated houseboat prices (compare online), touts at popular spots. Book through reputed agents like Pixlo Holidays for transparent pricing and reliable services.
Things to Do in Kerala
What are the top things to do in Kerala?
Backwaters: Alleppey and Kumarakom houseboat cruises. Hill Stations: Munnar tea gardens, Wayanad wildlife. Beaches: Kovalam, Varkala, Cherai. Wildlife: Periyar Tiger Reserve, Eravikulam National Park. Culture: Kathakali dance, Theyyam performances, temple festivals. Ayurveda: Traditional massages and treatments. Food: Cooking classes, spice plantation tours.
What adventure activities are available in Kerala?
Activities: Paragliding in Vagamon, trekking in Western Ghats, bamboo rafting in Thekkady, surfing at Kovalam, snorkeling in Kovalam, wildlife jeep safari in Periyar, tea plantation walks in Munnar, rock climbing in Wayanad, and zip-lining in Munnar. Costs range from ₹500-5,000 depending on the activity.
What are offbeat places in Kerala?
Explore: Silent Valley National Park, Bekal Fort, Nelliampathi Hills, Meenmutty Falls, Agasthyarkoodam trek, Munroe Island, Kavvayi Backwaters, and Paithalpara. These lesser-known destinations offer tranquility away from tourist crowds and provide authentic Kerala experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough for Kerala?
5-7 days is ideal for covering major destinations like Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey. Extend to 10 days if including Wayanad, Kovalam, or Kumarakom. A minimum of 3 days covers Cochin and nearby backwaters. For a relaxed pace with Ayurveda, plan 10-14 days.
What is the best Kerala itinerary?
Popular 5-day itinerary: Day 1-2: Cochin (Fort Kochi, Mattancherry), Day 3-4: Munnar (tea gardens, viewpoints), Day 5: Thekkady (Periyar wildlife), Day 6-7: Alleppey/Kumarakom (houseboat). Extend to Wayanad or Kovalam for beaches. Include Ayurveda treatments for wellness travelers.
Is Kerala expensive for tourists?
Kerala is moderately priced. Budget travelers: ₹6,000-10,000/day. Mid-range: ₹12,000-20,000/day. Luxury: ₹25,000+/day. Accommodation is affordable (₹1,000-5,000/night). Food is cheap and delicious (₹200-500/day). Houseboats are the main splurge. Overall, Kerala offers good value for money.
Do I need to book houseboats in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season (Dec-Jan, Feb). Book 2-3 months ahead for luxury houseboats. Budget houseboats can be booked 2-4 weeks in advance. Off-season offers last-minute discounts up to 40%. Always verify the houseboat condition and amenities before booking.
Is Kerala good for honeymoon?
Yes! Kerala is one of India's top honeymoon destinations. Stay in luxury houseboats, treehouse resorts, or boutique hotels in Munnar. Book private backwater cruises, Ayurvedic couples spa, and sunset Kettuvallam rides. Best time: Oct-Mar. Popular honeymoon spots: Munnar, Kumarakom, and Kovalam.
Travel Tips & Hacks
Top travel tips for Kerala
1) Book houseboats early for peak season; 2) Carry light cotton clothes and a jacket for Munnar; 3) Try local cuisine on banana leaves for authentic Sadya experience; 4) Use autorickshaws for short distances (always ask for meter); 5) Carry sunscreen and hat for beach/hill station visits; 6) Book Ayurveda centers with certified therapists; 7) Visit early morning for backwater bird watching; 8) Carry cash as card acceptance is limited in remote areas.
How to save money in Kerala?
Tips: Travel off-season (Jun-Sept) for 30-50% discounts; use state transport buses; stay in homestays instead of hotels; eat at local restaurants not hotel dining; book packages through agents for better deals; visit government-run Ayurveda centers; opt for shared houseboat rooms; avoid touts at tourist spots.
What should I avoid in Kerala?
Avoid: Swimming in backwaters (not safe), isolated beaches after dark, unregistered tour operators, overly cheap houseboat deals (may lack safety), eating from unhygienic street stalls, ignoring local customs at temples (dress modestly), and purchasing illegal wildlife products. Respect local culture and environment.
Complete Packing List
What to pack for Kerala - complete checklist
Clothing: Light cotton clothes (3-4 sets), swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, sandals, light sweater/jacket for Munnar, rain jacket/umbrella (monsoon), scarf (for temples), 1 pair of jeans.
Essentials: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, hat/cap, insect repellent, moisturizer (humid weather), power bank, camera, binoculars (wildlife).
Health: Basic medicines, ORS, anti-diarrheal, hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent cream, any personal medication.
Documents: ID proof, hotel/houseboat booking, travel insurance, cash (limited ATMs in rural areas).
Extras: Reusable water bottle, day backpack, waterproof bag for electronics, book/e-reader, portable fan (summer).