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- 13 Nights / 14 days
Exploration South Kerala
Overview
Embark on a captivating 14-day, 13-night journey through South Kerala, where vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences await. This thoughtfully curated tour takes you through Kerala's diverse highlights, offering a perfect blend of heritage, natural beauty, and relaxation.
Begin in the historic port town of Cochin, a lively hub of colonial-era charm, bustling markets, and scenic waterfronts. Venture into the serene tea hills, where lush plantations and misty valleys create breathtaking vistas. In Madurai, immerse yourself in the spiritual grandeur of ancient temples and sacred rituals. Discover the wild beauty of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, trekking through jungles and spotting exotic wildlife, while the spice plantations nearby enchant you with their aromatic allure. Relax at a backwater resort, soaking in the tranquility of Kerala’s famed waterways, then embark on a houseboat cruise through serene canals and picturesque villages. Conclude your journey at a beach resort, where golden sands and gentle waves provide the perfect finale.
This tour seamlessly combines cultural exploration, natural splendor, and serene moments, ensuring an unforgettable experience of Kerala’s timeless charm.
Read full itinerary
Average temperature and rainfall
29
Temperature
150
Rainfall
Tour Highlights
- Visit the Jewish Quarter in Cochin.
- Explore a scenic tea trail in Munnar.
- Discover the historic temple city of Madurai.
- Embark on a jungle trek in Periyar.
- Stay at a tranquil backwater resort.
- Enjoy an overnight cruise on a houseboat.
- Relax at a stunning beach resort in Kovalam.
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.
2Munnar
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Munnar is a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, known for its stunning landscapes, tea plantations, and cool climate. Nestled at an altitude of around 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level, Munnar is characterized by rolling hills, lush greenery, and mist-covered valleys.
The region is famous for its sprawling tea gardens, which produce some of the finest tea in India. Visitors can explore tea estates, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea cultivation, and enjoy tea-tasting sessions. Munnar is also home to several natural attractions, such as the Eravikulam National Park, which is known for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Anamudi Peak (the highest peak in South India), and picturesque waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam.
3Madurai
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Madurai is a historic city located in the southern part of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Known for its rich cultural and religious heritage, Madurai is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in India. The city is renowned for the Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural marvel and a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi and her consort, Lord Shiva. The temple complex is famous for its intricately carved gopurams (gateway towers), vibrant sculptures, and the sacred golden lotus tank.
Madurai is also known for its bustling markets, vibrant street life, and traditional crafts, including handwoven textiles and jewelry.
4Thekkady
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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.
5Kumarakom
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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
6Alappuzha
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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.
7Kovalam
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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.
Detailed Itinerary
- DAY 01: Arrival Cochin
Welcomed by a Globe Travel Centre representative at the airport and transferred 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, and in the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise. Overnight at the Fragrant Nature.
- DAY 02: Cochin
Go for a sightseeing tour to explore the many fascinating highlights of Cochin; including, the Jewish Synagogue; St. Francis Church, the oldest European Church in India; the Santa Cruz Basilica, which was built in 1557 by the Portuguese; the Dutch Palace; the Spice Market; and the 15th century Chinese fishing nets believed to have been brought by Chinese traders. In the evening, visit an auditorium to watch the famous, traditional dance drama of Kerala, the Kathakali. This dance is characterised by intricate story telling, amazing costumes and extensive make-up. Overnight at the Fragrant Nature.
- DAY 03: Cochin - Munnar (135 km / 4 hrs)
Drive to Munnar, a hill station located 1,600 metres above sea level. Once the summer resort of the British administration in South India, it still retains its colonial charm and is famous for its tea plantations, most of which are privately owned. With its sprawling estates, rolling hills, sparkling waterfalls, picture postcard hamlets and undulating valleys, Munnar is an ideal getaway destination. Check into your hotel and unwind. Overnight at the Fragrant Nature.
- DAY 04: Munnar
Get ready to be enchanted by stunning views and serene landscapes today. Start your day with a memorable Lockhart Tea Trail experience. The Lockhart Estate is just 15 km from the hotel and a 30-minute drive away. Stroll through the tea estate with a private guide who will provide fascinating insights into the area. As you meander through the verdant tea plantations, you will enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and may even have the opportunity to interact with the women expertly plucking tea leaves. Later, visit the Lockhart Tea Factory to witness the fascinating process of transforming fresh tea leaves into fine blends. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, or opt for a visit to Munnar town and its vibrant markets, which can be arranged upon request. Overnight at the Fragrant Nature.
- DAY 05: Munnar - Madurai (170 Km/ 4.5 HRS)
Travel to Madurai in Tamil Nadu, one of South India's most iconic temple towns. With a history spanning over 2,500 years, Madurai boasts a rich cultural heritage rooted in the great Tamil era. In the evening, visit the renowned Meenakshi Temple to witness the captivating evening ceremony, where the deity Shiva is carried in a palanquin. Overnight at the Grand Madurai.
- DAY 06: Madurai
Embark on a sightseeing tour of Madurai to discover the city’s remarkable temples and architectural wonders. Explore the renowned Meenakshi Temple, home to the stunning 1,000-pillared hall adorned with intricate sculptures depicting stories from ancient Hindu epics. Another must-visit is the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, an architectural gem built in 1636 in the magnificent Indo-Saracenic style. Overnight at the Grand Madurai.
- DAY 07: Madurai - Periyar (148 Km / 4 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 08: 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 09: Periyar - Kumarakom (125 Km / 4 Hrs)
Drive to Kumarakom, the enchanting backwater region of Kerala, and check into your hotel. The labyrinthine network of rivers, canals, streams and lagoons which form the famed backwaters offer stunning views and is an ideal place to relax. Have a day of leisure. Overnight at the Rhythm Kumarakom.
- DAY 10: 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. Overnight at the Rhythm Kumarakom.
- DAY 11: Kumarakom - Houseboat (35 km / 1 hrs)
Drive to Alleppey. 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 12: Houseboat - Kovalam (165 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 13: Kovalam
Spend your final day unwinding on the beach. Overnight at The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel.
- DAY 14: 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 14-day Exploration 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- Exploration South Kerala
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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