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- Classic South Kerala Tour
- 9 Nights / 10 days
Classic South Kerala Tour
Overview
Experience Kerala through one of our Classic Tours highlighting a broad selection of the main attractions of Kerala. This journey features the vibrant port town of Cochin, the wildlife-rich landscapes of Periyar, and the serene backwaters of Kumarakom. Enjoy a tranquil houseboat cruise and conclude your journey with a relaxing stay at the picturesque beaches of Kovalam.
Read full itinerary
Average temperature and rainfall
29
Temperature
150
Rainfall
Tour Highlights
- Enjoy a sunset cruise around Cochin harbour.
- Visit the fragrant spice plantations in Periyar.
- Stay overnight on a private houseboat.
- Explore village life in Kumarakom.
- Unwind at a tranquil beach resort.
Tour Route - Where you'll visit
1Cochin
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Cochin, or Kochi as it is now called, is divided into Old Cochin (comprising Fort Cochin and Mattanchery) and Ernakulam, which is a bustling metropolis and is considered the commercial capital of Kerala. It is the only district in Kerala where you can experience urban comforts on a par with other major cities in India and also the history of many centuries bygone.
2Thekkady
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Thekkady is a picturesque town located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India, renowned for its lush landscapes, wildlife, and serene environment. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a range of activities in the heart of the Western Ghats.Periyar National Park: The most prominent attraction in Thekkady, this wildlife sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. The park features a picturesque lake and offers boat safaris that provide opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding forest.
3Kumarakom
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Kumarakom is home to the backwaters,a splendid area full of canals, lakes and coves. An overnight cruise is the best way to naviage through the breathtaking canals of Kumarakom
4Alappuzha
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Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a picturesque town in of Kerala, renowned for its intricate network of canals, backwaters, and lagoons. Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," Alappuzha is famous for its houseboat cruises that offer a tranquil journey through lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages. The town hosts the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, a vibrant and competitive event featuring traditional snake boats. Alappuzha's scenic beaches, historic lighthouse, and charming colonial-era architecture add to its appeal, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
5Kovalam
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Kovalam is a popular beach destination located in the southern part of Kerala, known for its stunning coastline and relaxed atmosphere. The area is famous for its three crescent-shaped beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach. Lighthouse Beach, named after the old Vizhinjam Lighthouse, is the most well-known and features a picturesque setting with golden sands and a lively promenade.
Kovalam offers a range of activities, including sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, as well as wellness experiences like Ayurvedic treatments and yoga. The town is also home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing visitors with diverse dining and shopping options. Kovalam's blend of natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and wellness offerings make it a sought-after destination for both relaxation and adventure.
6Trivandrum
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Trivandrum, officially known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital city of Kerala, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. Located on the southwestern coast of India, Trivandrum is a major center for arts, education, and politics in Kerala.Padmanabhaswamy Temple, A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, renowned for its intricate architecture and ancient rituals. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site and a symbol of the city's cultural heritage.
Detailed Itinerary
- DAY 01- Arrive in Cochin
Welcomed by a Globe Travel Centre representative at the airport and transported to your hotel. A port town since early centuries, Cochin, also known as the spice coast of India, attracted traders and invaders from the world over. Needless to say, Cochin offers you some fascinating snippets of history and culture. Relax and unwind at the hotel. In the evening go for a relaxing sunset cruise.
Overnight at the Fragrant Nature.
- DAY 02 - Cochin
On your first day, you will go on a sightseeing tour to explore the many fascinating highlights of Cochin. Including the Jewish Synagogue, in what is locally called the Jew Town, St. Francis Church, the oldest European Church in India, the Santa Cruz Basilica, built in 1557 by the Portuguese, the Dutch Palace, and the Spice market, where you will see the 15th century Chinese fishing nets believed to have been brought by Chinese traders. In the evening, immerse yourself in the captivating traditional dance drama of Kerala, Kathakali. This art form is renowned for its compelling storytelling, vibrant costumes, and elaborate makeup. Overnight at the Fragrant Nature.
- DAY 03 - Cochin - Periyar (161 KM / 5 HRS)
Drive to Periyar an area known for its undulating hills, spice plantations, and elephant sightings. One of the 27 tiger reserves in India, the Periyar valley in Thekkady is the oldest. Check into your hotel. There are over 320 species of birds in Periyar, including Nilgiri Wood Pigeons, Blue-winged Parakeets; White-bellied Tree Pies, Laughing Thrushes and Fly Catchers. Go on a spice garden visit in the afternoon where you will be enticed by not only the aroma of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, pepper and nutmeg but will also get to know how they are grown, harvested and processed before they reach the supermarkets. Overnight at the Cardamom County.
- DAY 04 - Periyar
This morning proceed for a dawn to afternoon range hiking and rafting program in Periyar. This is a conservation-oriented hiking and rafting trail taking up half a day, starting at 07:30 am and ending at 12:30 pm, covering an approximate distance of 05 Miles. The route passes through undulating terrains. Altitudinal ranges of 900 meters to 1300 meters will be covered and trekkers obtain glimpses of the lofty escarpments bordering the park watershed and the vast plains down below. Gaur sloth bear, elephant etc. are often sighted along this route apart from birds and butterflies. The trekkers will go with an English speaking guide and an armed guard. Spend the afternoon at leisure or explore the spice markets and shops on your own. Overnight at the Cardamom County.
- DAY 05- Periyar - Kumarakom (135 Km / 4 HRS)
Drive to Kumarakom, Kerala's enchanting backwater region, and check into your hotel. This intricate network of rivers, canals, streams, and lagoons, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, is the perfect spot to unwind. En route, visit the Connemara Tea Factory, where you can explore and witness the fascinating process of tea making. Overnight at the Coconut Lagoon.
- DAY 06 - Kumarakom
Experience authentic village life on today’s half-day Village Life Tour, showcasing community-based tourism. Glide through narrow canals on a country boat operated by locals, observing everyday activities like fishing, paddy farming, and weaving. Try traditional fishing methods, stroll through village paths to visit an Anganwadi school, and watch artisans at work on crafts like screw pine weaving and snake boat models. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating full-body Ayurveda massage.
Overnight at the Coconut Lagoon.
- DAY 07- Kumarakom - Houseboat
Spend the morning at leisure. By lunchtime, board your private houseboat directly from the resort and set off to explore the stunning backwaters, a network of canals, lakes, and coves. Your houseboat, or Kettuvallom, offers luxury with well-appointed bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms. Relax on the deck, soak up the sun, or enjoy views of the palm-lined landscape from your cabin. Beyond the scenic beauty, the local way of life adds to the charm—witness canoes navigating the waters, vegetable sellers, fishermen, and traders bringing goods door-to-door in small wooden boats. Feel free to ask your captain to stop at villages, paddy fields, and other scenic spots along the way. Overnight stay on board with full-board.
- DAY 08 - Houseboat - Kovalam (170 KM / 4.5 HRS)
Disembark from your houseboat at Alleppey and drive to Kovalam, one of Kerala’s top beach destinations. Kovalam features three crescent-shaped beaches separated by rock headlands, with the southernmost, Lighthouse Beach, being the most famous. The crystal-clear waters and pleasant climate make it a popular choice for beach lovers throughout the year. Spend the afternoon exploring the beaches.
Overnight at The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel.
- DAY 09 - Kovalam
Spend your final day unwinding on the beach.
Overnight at The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel.
- DAY 10 - Kovalam - Trivandrum - Departure (15 KM / 45 Min)
In good time you will be transferred to Trivandrum airport to board your onward flight.
When Should I go?
Being a coastal state surrounded by the Arabian Sea and because of its proximity to the equator, Kerala has a more or less consistent temperature pattern in the summers and the monsoons alike. The temperature hovers around 29°C throughout the year with varying levels of humidity.
Average temperatures and rainfall
Monsoon Months in Kerala
June and July are monsoon months in Kerala, the showers being heavy at first and then easing off gradually. Whilst these are not the best months for tours, interestingly, this happens to the best time for travellers seeking the therapeutic Ayurveda treatment which is said to be most effective in these months.
Best months for travel to Kerala
The months of October through to March are considered to be the most favourable months to travel to Kerala when the weather is sunny and pleasant. The months of April and May are also favourable for travel but the humidity tends to be comparatively higher. August and September are also good months for travel.
Pricing Information
The indicative price for this 10-day Classic South Kerala Tour is
From £ in low season (May – September)
From £ in high season (October – April)
The prices do not include flights.
The above mentioned price is per person based on double/twin sharing. The price includes accommodation, meals, transportation as well as sightseeing and activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
The above mentioned high season rates may not be applicable during some of the peak dates in December, January and February.
This is a private tour, which can be customized to suit your specific needs, whether you wish to adjust the accommodation options, add a different destination, or make any other changes. Prices may vary based on factors such as group size, tour duration, accommodation preferences, and the season.
Kindly share your preferred travel dates, and we will be happy to provide a personalized itinerary and an accurate quote
From £ in low season (May – September)
From £ in high season (October – April)
The prices do not include flights.
The above mentioned price is per person based on double/twin sharing. The price includes accommodation, meals, transportation as well as sightseeing and activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
The above mentioned high season rates may not be applicable during some of the peak dates in December, January and February.
This is a private tour, which can be customized to suit your specific needs, whether you wish to adjust the accommodation options, add a different destination, or make any other changes. Prices may vary based on factors such as group size, tour duration, accommodation preferences, and the season.
Kindly share your preferred travel dates, and we will be happy to provide a personalized itinerary and an accurate quote
Tour Image Gallery
Activity Tour- Classic South Kerala Tour
Image Gallery
Activity Tour- Biking - 09 Nights 11
Activity Tour- Biking - 09 Nights 21
Activity Tour- Biking - 09 Nights 31
Classic Tour-All Kerala - 13 Nights 8
Classic Tour-North Kerala - 09 Nights 3
Travel Brochures
KERALA BROCHURE
With 230 pages our Kerala brochure is the largest of its kind globally and features;
Extensive regional information
20+ itinerary ideas
More than 100 hotels
Maps and images
Travel Brochures
With 230 pages our Kerala brochure is the largest of its kind globally and features;
Extensive regional information
20+ itinerary ideas
More than 100 hotels
Maps and images
Community Projects
Every time you book a holiday with us, we donate to a tangible cause at the destination - from our profits. Not only that, at the time of booking a holiday, we give you a choice of projects that we support and you can choose one that's closest to your hearts.
Ask our local experts to tailor-make this tour
Call Freephone 020 3924 2880 to speak with one of our regional experts based at the destination. Our specialists will share their expertise and also understand, in-depth, what you like on your holidays so as to be able to offer a tailor made itinerary that best meet your requirements and budget.
Get in touch with us
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Speak with our specialist team of local experts
When you are a 100% satisfied with an itinerary that our expert has tailored for you and are ready to book, we will request a booking deposit of £250.00 per person.
(If your booking involves International flights, we request flight charges at the time of booking). Your balance becomes payable 8 weeks before departure.
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Choose the community project you’d like to support
Globe Travel Centre’s business ethos is centred around benefitting communities- which is why every time you book, we donate to a cause from our profits.
At the time of booking, we will give you options of various causes we support at the destination. You can let us know which cause you want us to donate to against your booking.
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Receive your travel documentation
8 weeks before you travel, you will be sent a detailed and customised jute travel pack in our award winning recycled tyre tube bag which also includes other travel essentials.
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Relax, you’re in safe hands
We will be in touch with you on an on-going basis, both before you travel (to check if you have any last minute questions) and also while you are at the destination, where our local offices ensure you have no problems during the holiday.
What’s more, you’ll receive a complimentary mobile phone for the duration of your visit so you can contact us wherever you are.
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