Kerala India Tours: A Complete Journey Through Nature

Introduction to Kerala India Tours

Kerala, often known as “God’s Own Country,” is one of the most visited destinations in southern India. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Kerala presents a mix of lush greenery, tranquil backwaters, cultural heritage, hill stations, and rich wildlife. Kerala India toursattract travelers looking for relaxation, cultural immersion, eco-tourism, and rejuvenation.

From ancient temples and spice plantations to wildlife sanctuaries and Ayurvedic treatments, every part of Kerala adds something meaningful to your travel experience. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about Kerala India tours—from must-visit places and travel seasons to local experiences and cuisine.

Why Kerala India Tours Are Worth Your Time

Kerala India tours offer a layered travel experience that combines natural beauty, spiritual depth, and cultural richness. Unlike fast-paced commercial hubs, Kerala is peaceful yet vibrant, ideal for those who want to connect with nature and culture.

The state’s infrastructure supports all types of travelers—from solo backpackers to honeymooners and families. The welcoming locals, safe environments, and excellent food make it an ideal region to visit throughout the year.

Whether you’re looking to cruise on a houseboat, walk through tea gardens, or attend a traditional Kathakali show, Kerala India tours promise a diverse and deeply fulfilling journey.

Backwaters and Houseboat Journeys

A signature experience of Kerala India tours is the backwater cruise. The interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and lagoons form a unique ecosystem that defines central Kerala. Alappuzha (Alleppey) and Kumarakom are the top backwater destinations where travelers can book traditional houseboats known as Kettuvallams.

These houseboats are fully equipped with modern amenities and offer a relaxing journey through palm-lined canals, paddy fields, and village life. A backwater trip is not just a ride—it’s a complete immersion into the calm rhythm of Kerala’s countryside.

Hill Stations with Natural Charm

Apart from the backwaters, Kerala India tours are incomplete without a visit to the highland regions. Munnar, located in the Western Ghats, is famous for its vast tea plantations, cool climate, and winding roads. It is ideal for long walks, photography, and honeymoon stays.

Wayanad is another gem, offering waterfalls, caves, trekking routes, and forested terrain. The region is also home to tribal communities, and eco-tourism here is both authentic and respectful of nature.

Thekkady, located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, offers a chance to stay close to wildlife and spice plantations. All these regions offer a contrasting landscape compared to coastal Kerala, making your itinerary more diverse.

Traditional Kerala Cuisine

Food is an essential part of Kerala India tours. The cuisine here is flavorful, aromatic, and often prepared using coconut, curry leaves, mustard seeds, and local spices.

Some must-try dishes include:

Sadya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, especially during festivals.
Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish cooked in banana leaf with spices.
Appam with Stew: Fermented rice pancakes served with vegetable or meat stew.
Malabar Parotta with Chicken Curry: A flaky layered flatbread from northern Kerala.

Street food and local restaurants serve authentic meals at reasonable prices. Fresh seafood is abundant, especially along the coast, and vegetarian options are widely available.

Wildlife and Eco-Tourism

Kerala’s ecological variety is impressive. From tropical forests to marshlands and hills, the state offers multiple wildlife and eco-tourism spots that are key attractions in Kerala India tours.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Thekkady, it offers guided forest treks, boating on the Periyar Lake, and bamboo rafting.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for elephants, leopards, and peacocks.
Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the blooming Neelakurinji flower (once every 12 years).
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: A paradise for bird watchers, hosting rare species like the Malabar grey hornbill.

All these spots are run with eco-tourism in mind, meaning visitor impact is minimized while local employment and conservation are prioritized.

Art, Culture, and Traditions

Kerala India tours go beyond sightseeing. They are also about engaging with centuries-old art forms and spiritual practices. Travelers can attend Kathakali dance performances, witness Kalaripayattu martial arts, or join temple festivals that bring entire communities together.

Kathakali: A classical dance-drama with elaborate costumes and storytelling through expressions and hand movements.
Mohiniyattam: Graceful dance performed by women, known for its gentle and fluid movements.
Theyyam and Padayani: Local ritual dances performed in temples of North Kerala.
Ayurveda: The state is also a leading center for traditional wellness therapies. Many tourists seek Kerala India tours to experience authentic Ayurvedic massages and treatments.

Beaches and Coastal Attractions

Kerala’s coastline stretches for over 550 kilometers, dotted with quiet and clean beaches. Each beach has its own character and appeal, making it an essential part of Kerala India tours.

Varkala Beach: Known for its cliff-side setting, natural springs, and spiritual atmosphere.
Kovalam Beach: Popular among international tourists for its crescent shape and shallow waters.
Marari Beach: A peaceful alternative near Alleppey, perfect for quiet retreats.
Bekal Beach: Located in the north, famous for its historic Bekal Fort and undeveloped shoreline.

The best part is the availability of homestays, boutique resorts, and eco-lodges right near the beach, enhancing your stay with comfort and views.

Best Time to Plan Kerala India Tours

Kerala enjoys a tropical climate, but certain months offer better travel experiences depending on the region and your purpose of visit:

October to March: The most pleasant time with cool weather—ideal for sightseeing and beach visits.
April to June: Hotter temperatures but great for visiting hill stations.
July to September: Monsoon season—excellent for Ayurveda treatments and experiencing lush green landscapes.

Festivals like Onam, Vishu, and Thrissur Pooram also draw cultural tourists during specific months.

Unique Experiences to Add

For those planning Kerala India tours with a desire for something beyond the usual, there are several unique experiences that make the trip more memorable:

Stay in a Treehouse in Wayanad or Athirappilly.
Cycle through Fort Kochi, a historic European-influenced port town.
Join a cooking class with a local family to learn traditional Kerala recipes.
Take part in the Snake Boat Race during August in Alleppey.
Visit a spice plantation in Thekkady or Munnar.

Each of these offers a deeper interaction with the region’s way of life.

How to Travel Within Kerala

Kerala is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Cochin International Airport (COK), Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), and Calicut International Airport (CCJ) serve as major entry points.

For internal travel:

Trains and buses cover most major towns.
Private taxis and rental cars are commonly used by tourists.
Auto-rickshaws and local buses are great for short distances.

Houseboats and ferry services also operate in the backwaters, adding charm to inter-village travel.

Safety, Language, and Local Etiquette

Kerala is considered one of the safest states in India for travelers. The local population is well-educated, and English is widely spoken. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or rural areas.
Remove footwear before entering religious or local homes.
Bargaining is accepted in markets but should be polite.
Filtered water and cooked food are generally safe for consumption.

Final Thoughts

Kerala India tours present a multi-layered experience that appeals to every type of traveler. From the peaceful backwaters and fragrant tea gardens to rich art traditions and coastal getaways, Kerala offers a well-rounded trip full of contrasts and connections. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore culture, or enjoy nature, Kerala has everything to offer—making it a destination you’ll remember long after your journey ends.