Kerala Holidays

Name: Kerala
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.6 (347 reviews)

Top 5 Experiences on our Kerala Holidays

Stay on a traditional houseboat

A backwater cruise on a traditional houseboat is a serene and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the tranquil nature of Kerala. Navigating through the intricate network of lakes, canals and rivers, the houseboat glides past lush vegetation, quaint villages and traditional rice paddies. As the gentle rhythm of the boat lulls you into relaxation, watch local life unfold along the waterways with fishermen casting their nets and women washing clothes on the banks. The delicious traditional Keralan cuisine served on board adds a flavourful touch to the journey, making it both an immersive and cultural experience.

Visit a tea plantation

Visiting a tea plantation is a must-do experience during Kerala holidays. The green slopes of the plantation unfold before your eyes, the air is filled with the sweet aroma of fresh tea leaves and the sound of rustling leaves adds to the atmosphere. Walking through the neatly planted rows of tea bushes, you can witness the intricate process of tea production, from plucking to processing. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and techniques involved, making it an educational journey. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Keralan tea.

Take a boat trip on Periyar Lake

Nestled inside a wildlife sanctuary in Thekkady, Periyar Lake provides a peaceful and enchanting experience. As the boat glides through the waters surrounded by rich biodiversity, you can’t help but feel a sense of peace and harmony with nature. A boat trip on the lake is also a great way to spot elephants, majestic gaurs and colourful bird species that can often be seen along the shore. The lake was created in the late 19th century and has become a well-known place for wildlife watching where you can get up close and personal to incredible creatures.

Explore the old spice town of Cochin

Also known as Kochi, Cochin is a vibrant market town in the southern state of Kerala. It is renowned for its idyllic backwaters, historic sites and diverse cultural heritage. The town is an intoxicating blend of old-world charm and modern life, with its rich history reflected in the colonial architecture, such as the iconic Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church and the Dutch Palace. Cochin is also a hub of art and culture, with traditional Kathakali performances and classical music concerts keeping its cultural legacy alive.

Sample traditional Keralan food

Traditional Keralan food is a sensory culinary experience that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Known for its unique blend of flavours and spices, the cuisine here offers a wide variety of vegetarian and meat dishes. Coconut, curry leaves and mustard seeds are commonly used in cooking, giving the dishes their distinct flavours and aromas. Some popular dishes that you might want to try include appam, puttu, fish curry and avial. The generous use of coconut oil and coconut milk adds richness to the dishes and the food is typically served on a banana leaf. Keralan food is not just about eating, it’s about savouring the tradition and culture passed down through generations.

Kerala Tours

You could spend a lifetime exploring the nuances that make each place – and each day – distinctly different from the last in India. Each is marked by its own food, festivals and traditions. And there’s an ever-changing landscape too. On our Kerala holidays and the languid south, you’ll find the pace much slower than in the frenetic north. Tranquil rural villages, deserted white-sand beaches and wildlife-rich rainforest make Kerala the perfect haven. Beautiful countryside, rolling plains and lush valleys are home to elephants, monkeys and other flora and fauna.

On Exodus’ Kerala tours you’ll have the opportunity to stay on a traditional houseboat and explore the sleepy backwaters. The barges are open on both sides, encouraging a natural breeze and allowing stunning views of both banks of the river. Throughout the journey watch local life pass by, and in the evenings visit villages to experience the cultural heritage first hand.

Cycling along the scenic coast of Kerala lets you witness the azure waters of the Arabian Sea, picturesque beaches and charming fishing villages, while the rural, rolling hills inland are strewn with lush spice and tea plantations, providing a sensory paradise with fragrant aromas and verdant tea leaves.

Immerse yourself in the local culture to gain a deeper understanding of Kerala’s deep traditions, from mesmerising dance performances to lip-smacking cuisine bursting with vibrant flavours. The warm hospitality of the locals adds a personal touch to your experience and makes you feel right at home in this tropical paradise.

Kerala Holidays

14 Days from USD 3900

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Cycle from the Western Ghats to the idyllic coastline of Kerala

Cycling

14 Days from USD 4200

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Cycle through two distinctively different Indian states

Cycling

8 Days from USD 2175

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Gentle cycling along the tropical Keralan coastline

Cycling

14 Days from USD 2025

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Find peace and paradise in India’s two southernmost states: Kerala and Tamil Nadu

Culture

14 Days from USD 4725

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Go off the tourist trail to experience authentic culture and majestic landscapes

Culture

8 Days from USD 1275

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Easy-going, exotic and entrancing – a totally different side to India in tropical Kerala

Culture

15 Days from USD 5625

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

A cultural immersion in one of the world’s most fascinating lands

Culture

15 Days from USD 2550

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Walking through the beautiful hills and tea plantations of South India

Walking & Trekking

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This was a busy itinerary with some early starts and long transfers, but it meant we saw so many amazing places every day. Our memory of the first week in the north, was of the noisy mayhem that is India, with quite a lot of sightseeing to monuments. In contrast the week in Kerala was more relaxed either by the sea or in the mountains. Being a ‘Premium Adventure’ meant we were in good standard hotels, and about half the dinners and some lunches were included in the price, which was appreciated. Also, our leader saw to all the tipping for the whole trip, so we didn’t have to have a kitty (a bit of a bugbear on previous Exodus trips).

Joan Brightwell India's North & South – Premium Adventure

Surprisingly beautiful, challenging and hospitable.

Cynthia Zabin Cycle Kerala & Tropical India

As a first time visitor to India I was not disappointed. This is a full on trip with lots of time spent travelling between locations but this means you get the full flavour of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu from the stunning tea plantations in the North to the Southern Tip of India where three oceans meet.

Janet Whyte Kerala & the Tropical South

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When is the best time to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months of October to February. This period sees pleasant weather with mild temperatures and low humidity, making it perfect for exploring the serene backwaters and beautiful beaches that Kerala is most famous for. The post-monsoon season from September to November is also a great time to visit, as the landscape is vibrant and refreshed from the rains. Avoiding the summer months of March to May is advisable due to the high temperatures and humidity, which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.

What is Kerala’s cuisine like?

Keralan cuisine originates from the southern state of Kerala in India and is an exciting fusion of flavours that tantalises the taste buds. Known for its diverse range of dishes, the food here is characterised by the generous use of coconut, curry leaves and spices like black pepper, cardamom and cloves. One of the most popular dishes is the traditional fish curry made with fresh catch of the day, coconut milk and lots of aromatic spices. Another favourite is appam, a soft and fluffy pancake-like bread made from fermented rice batter.

FAQs on Kerala Tours

What are the best places to visit in Kerala?

Kerala is known as ‘God’s Own Country’ and plays host to many incredible places. In Cochin, the historic port city, explore the beautiful colonial architecture and wander through vibrant local markets. Munnar is most famous for its tea plantations and captivates you with its mist-shrouded hills and lush landscapes. And if you’re a nature lover, head to Periyar National Park to discover the rich biodiversity and enjoy thrilling wildlife encounters with the likes of elephants, gaurs and colourful birds. Just across the border in Tamil Nadu, a trip to Madurai promises a memorable cultural experience with its bustling markets and ancient temples, including the ornately carved Sri Meenakshi Temple.

What are the best things to do on Kerala holidays?

Kerala is a wonderful destination blessed with beautiful scenery, tranquil backwaters and stunning hill stations. You’ll find a wide a variety of enriching activities to do here, such as a houseboat cruise through the backwaters, savouring traditional Kerala cuisine prepared on board. Alternatively, explore the vibrant culture and history of Fort Kochi, home to ancient churches and striking street art, trek through the picturesque tea estates of Munnar or witness breathtaking views from one of the tropical beaches. For a spot of relaxation, immerse yourself in Ayurvedic treatments which rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

Is it worth exploring Kerala’s backwaters?

Kerala’s backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, lakes, rivers and inlets that stretch along the coast. This picturesque region is known for its tranquility, natural beauty and unique ecosystem. The backwaters serve as a vital mode of transportation for locals, with traditional houseboats known as “kettuvallams” gliding through the waters. If you want to experience the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Kerala, it’s definitely worth exploring the backwaters on a houseboat. The region’s exotic birdlife, lush paddy fields and charming villages give you an insight into the nature and traditional way of life.

Is Kerala a family-friendly destination?

Kerala is a family-friendly destination with a diverse combination of natural beauty, rich culture and unique experiences. Home to meandering backwaters, fertile landscapes and exotic beaches, Kerala provides the perfect setting for families to explore and discover new places and culture. The state is also home to numerous attractions such as wildlife sanctuaries, tea plantations and traditional Kathakali performances, which families can enjoy together. It’s also a great destination for introducing children to different cuisine as the flavoursome food and spices cater to all kinds of palates.

What activities are available on Kerala holidays?

Kerala offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Hiking through the Western Ghats provides you with magnificent views of tea plantations and waterfalls while cycling along the dramatic coastline lets you explore traditional fishing villages and heavenly beaches. If you’re looking for something with more of an adrenaline rush, why not try your hand at parasailing over the sparkling waters of the Arabian Sea? At many of Kerala’s beaches, there are plenty of water sports available, from sea kayaking to jet skiing.