Kerala, fondly known as “God’s Own Country,” is a mesmerising destination that captivates travellers with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual tranquillity 1 2. From the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey to the misty tea plantations of Munnar, Kerala offers diverse experiences that can be overwhelming to plan independently. This is where professional travel agents become invaluable partners in crafting your perfect Kerala journey.
Enjoy Holidays stands out as a premier domestic and international travel agency that specialises in providing luxury and comfortable trips to Kerala and beyond 3. With their expertise in curating exceptional travel experiences, they understand the nuances of Kerala tourism and can help you discover the state’s hidden gems while ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Understanding Kerala: The Destination
Kerala stretches for 550 kilometres along India’s southwest coast, nestled between the densely forested mountains of the Western Ghats and a lush coastal plain 1. This tropical paradise is blessed with the highest rainfall in peninsular India, creating an intensely green landscape that has enchanted visitors since ancient times when Sumerians and Greeks sailed to the Malabar Coast in search of spices 1.
Top Destinations to Include in Your Kerala Itinerary
The state offers numerous breathtaking destinations, each with its unique charm 5:
Hill Stations:
- Munnar: Famous for tea plantations, misty hills, and the Eravikulam National Park 6
- Wayanad: Known for spice plantations, Edakkal Caves, and wildlife sanctuaries 6
- Thekkady: Home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice plantations 6
Backwater Destinations:
- Alleppey (Alappuzha): The heart of Kerala’s backwater network with houseboat cruises 7
- Kumarakom: Perfect for bird watching and peaceful backwater experiences 7
Coastal Areas:
- Kochi (Cochin): Historic port city with colonial architecture and cultural attractions 1
- Varkala: Dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea 5
- Kovalam: Famous for Lighthouse Beach and Ayurvedic treatments 5
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Planning your Kerala trip requires understanding the state’s seasonal variations 8 9:
Winter Season (October to February)
- Temperature: 18°C to 29°C
- Weather: Cool and pleasant with low humidity
- Best for: Backwaters, houseboats, beaches, wildlife safaris, and Ayurvedic treatments
- Peak tourist season: Higher prices but ideal weather conditions
Summer Season (March to May)
- Temperature: 32°C to 36°C
- Weather: Hot and humid
- Best for: Hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad, wildlife sanctuaries
- Advantage: Lower tourist crowds and better accommodation deals
Monsoon Season (June to September)
- Temperature: 19°C to 30°C
- Weather: Heavy rainfall
- Best for: Ayurvedic treatments, experiencing lush green landscapes, and waterfalls
- Special appeal: Dramatic scenery and rejuvenated nature 10
Top Travel Agents for Kerala Trips
Based on extensive research and customer reviews, here are the most reputable travel agencies for Kerala trips 11 12:
1. Srees Tour and Travels
- Specialisation: Honeymoon packages, houseboat packages, hill station tours
- Reputation: Leading travel agency in Kerala with years of good service
- Contact: +91 81294 97390
- Location: Kumarakom, Kerala
- Strengths: Superfast services and customised packages 11
2. Kerala Holidays Pvt. Ltd.
- Scale: Serves over 50,000 tourists annually
- Expertise: No.1 tour company in Kerala with comprehensive holiday experiences
- Certifications: Member of TAAI, IATO, TAFI
- Special Features: 24×7 customer support and tie-ups with major hotel chains 13
3. Thrillophilia
- Package Range: ₹10,500 to ₹47,200
- Duration Options: 3 to 8 days
- Customer Rating: 4.6 stars with 12,036+ reviews
- Strengths: Handpicked itineraries and expert curation 14
4. Thomas Cook India
- Package Range: Starting from ₹12,400 for 4 days
- Special Offers: Buy 1 Get 1 Free deals
- Coverage: Comprehensive tour packages for all traveller types 15
International Tour Operators
For travellers from abroad, these global operators offer excellent Kerala packages 12:
1. Exodus Adventure Travels
- Rating: 4.7 average for Kerala trips
- Reviews: 19,463 reviews
- Speciality: Group tours and expedition cruises
2. Intrepid Travel
- Rating: 4.5 average for Kerala trips
- Reviews: 4,887 reviews
- Speciality: Small group adventures and family tours
Types of Kerala Tour Packages
Honeymoon Packages
Kerala is one of India’s top honeymoon destinations, offering romantic experiences amidst pristine natural beauty 16 17:
Popular Honeymoon Packages:
- Romantic Getaway to Munnar: 4 days/3 nights – ₹14,680 16
- Kerala Weekend Getaway: 4 days/3 nights – ₹18,500 16
- Luxurious Escape to Kerala: 6 days/5 nights – ₹43,760 16
- Honeymoon Special Kerala: 6 days – ₹37,000 17
Key Features:
- Private houseboat cruises
- Candlelit dinners
- Ayurvedic spa treatments for couples
- Tea plantation visits
- Secluded beach experiences
Family Tour Packages
Family tours in Kerala are designed to cater to all age groups, ensuring memorable experiences for everyone 18 19:
Sample Family Itinerary (6 Days/5 Nights):
- Day 1: Arrival in Kochi, local sightseeing
- Day 2: Transfer to Munnar, tea plantation visits
- Day 3: Munnar sightseeing, Eravikulam National Park
- Day 4: Transfer to Thekkady, wildlife safari
- Day 5: Day trip to Alleppey backwaters
- Day 6: Departure from Kochi
Family Package Prices:
Adventure and Wildlife Packages
Kerala offers numerous adventure activities for thrill-seekers 21 22:
Top Adventure Activities:
- Parasailing: Available at coastal areas like Varkala
- Paragliding: Popular in Vagamon with aerial views
- Trekking: Munnar offers trails like Meesapulimala and Anamudi Peak
- Wildlife Safaris: Periyar, Wayanad, and other sanctuaries
- Backwater Kayaking: Explore narrow canals and local village life
- Bamboo Rafting: Unique water sport experience
Kerala’s Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks
Kerala boasts 18 wildlife sanctuaries covering 2,156.21 square kilometres 23:
1. Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve
- Area: 777 sq km
- Established: 1950
- Famous for: Elephants, tigers, boat safaris on Periyar Lake 24
2. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Area: 344.44 sq km
- Established: 1973
- Highlights: Dense forests, elephant herds, trekking opportunities 23
3. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Speciality: Migratory birds from Siberia
- Best time: Winter months for bird watching
- Species: Kingfishers, parrots, cuckoos, egrets, cranes 24
Accommodation Options in Kerala
Luxury Resorts and Hotels
Kerala offers diverse accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious 25 26:
Top Luxury Resorts:
- Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa, Kumarakom: Backwater luxury with spa facilities
- The Grand Cliff Resort: Hill station luxury with tea plantation views
- Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kochi: Waterfront luxury in the commercial capital
Unique Accommodation Experiences
Houseboats (Kettuvallams):
- Traditional boats converted into floating hotels
- Range from basic to ultra-luxurious with spas and swimming pools
- Sizes vary from 1-bedroom to 10-bedroom houseboats 27
Tree Houses:
- Available in Wayanad and other forest areas
- Perfect for nature lovers and unique experiences 28
Heritage Hotels:
- Converted palaces and colonial buildings
- Offer cultural immersion with modern amenities
Transportation in Kerala
Kerala has excellent connectivity with four international airports 29 30:
International Airports:
- Cochin International Airport: Highest connectivity to international destinations
- Trivandrum International Airport: Southern gateway
- Calicut International Airport: Northern Kerala access
- Kannur International Airport: Latest addition
Domestic Connectivity:
- Direct flights from major Indian cities
- Airlines: IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express
Local Transportation
Public Transport:
- KSRTC Buses: Extensive network with ordinary, fast passenger, and luxury options
- Railways: Southern Railway network connecting major destinations
- Local Trains: Frequent and affordable for short distances 29
Private Options:
- Taxi services and ride-sharing apps
- Car rentals with a driver
- Auto-rickshaws for short distances
Kerala Cuisine and Food Experiences
Kerala’s cuisine is a delightful blend of spices, coconut, and fresh ingredients 31 32:
Must-Try Kerala Dishes
Breakfast Specialities:
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cylinders with chickpea curry
- Appam with Stew: Fermented rice pancakes with coconut-based stew
- Idiyappam: Rice noodle strings served with curry
Main Course Delights:
- Kerala Prawn Curry: Succulent prawns in coconut milk and spices
- Thalassery Biryani: Fragrant rice dish with meat and aromatic spices
- Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish wrapped and grilled
- Naadan Beef Fry: Traditional Kerala-style spicy beef preparation
Desserts:
- Palada Payasam: Rice flakes cooked in milk with jaggery
- Ada Pradhaman: Traditional dessert with rice flakes and coconut milk
Ayurvedic Wellness in Kerala
Kerala is globally recognised as the centre for authentic Ayurvedic treatments 34:
Popular Ayurvedic Treatments
Panchakarma: Five-step detoxification program
Abhyangam: Traditional full-body oil massage
Shirodhara: Therapeutic oil pouring on the forehead
Kizhi: Herbal poultice treatments
Benefits of Kerala Ayurveda
- Detoxifies the body and removes toxins
- Boosts immunity through natural therapies
- Relieves stress and promotes mental clarity
- Improves digestion and joint health
- Balances hormones and supports overall wellness 33
Cultural Experiences and Festivals
Kerala’s rich cultural heritage is showcased through its vibrant festivals and art forms 35 36:
Major Festivals
Onam (August-September):
- Kerala’s most important festival honouring King Mahabali
- Features flower carpets, traditional feast (Sadhya), and boat races
- Perfect time to experience authentic Kerala culture 35
Thrissur Pooram:
- Spectacular temple festival with elephant processions
- Features traditional percussion orchestras and fireworks 35
Vishu (April-May):
- Kerala New Year celebration with traditional rituals
- Auspicious viewing ceremony and special feasts 35
Traditional Art Forms
- Kathakali: Classical dance-drama with elaborate costumes
- Mohiniyattam: Graceful classical dance form
- Kalaripayattu: Ancient martial art form
Shopping in Kerala
Kerala offers excellent shopping opportunities for authentic local products 37 38:
Must-Buy Items
Spices:
- Cardamom, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon
- Available at Thekkady spice plantations and Mattancherry Spice Market 37
Handicrafts:
- Coconut shell crafts and coir items
- Wood carvings in teak, rosewood, and sandalwood
- Kathakali masks and traditional artefacts 38
Textiles:
- Traditional Kerala sarees and fabrics
- Handloom products and ethnic wear
Tea and Coffee:
- Fresh tea from Munnar plantations
- Aromatic coffee beans from hill stations
Budget Planning for Kerala Trip
Cost Breakdown (2025)
Average Daily Cost for 2 People:
- Accommodation (3-star): ₹2,862+ (including breakfast)
- Meals: ₹780 (excluding breakfast)
- Local transportation (private car): ₹1,700+ for 100 km
- Total per day: ₹2,676 per person 39
7-Day Trip Costs:
- Solo traveller: ₹15,701
- Two people: ₹31,701
- Family discounts available for longer stays 39
Budget-Saving Tips
Off-Season Travel:
- Visit during monsoon (June-September) for lower prices
- Shoulder seasons (April-May) offer moderate savings 40
Accommodation Choices:
- Homestays for an authentic experience and lower costs
- Budget hotels starting from ₹900 per night
- Hostels for solo travellers and groups 40
How to Choose the Right Travel Agent
Key Selection Criteria
Research and Verification:
- Check online reviews and ratings on multiple platforms
- Verify certifications from tourism organisations (IATO, TAFI, TAAI)
- Look for government recognition and approvals 41
Service Quality Indicators:
- 24/7 customer support availability
- Transparent pricing with clear inclusions/exclusions
- Customisation flexibility for itineraries
- Emergency assistance and crisis management 41
Experience and Expertise:
- Years of operation in Kerala tourism
- Local knowledge and insider access
- Multilingual guides and support staff
- Own fleet of vehicles and hotel partnerships 41
Red Flags to Avoid
- Extremely low prices without clear explanations
- No physical office address or contact details
- Poor customer reviews and ratings
- Lack of proper documentation and licenses
- Pressure tactics for immediate booking
Safety Tips for Kerala Travel
Health Precautions:
- Carry mosquito repellent for a tropical climate
- Drink only bottled or filtered water
- Get necessary vaccinations (Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid)
- Pack a basic first-aid kit 42
Personal Security:
- Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items
- Use reputable transportation services
- Book tours through verified agencies only
- Be cautious of common tourist scams 42
Weather Awareness:
- Check monsoon forecasts during the rainy season
- Avoid flood-prone areas during heavy rains
- Pack appropriate clothing for climate variations 42
Photography Opportunities in Kerala
Kerala offers stunning photography opportunities across diverse landscapes 28 43:
Best Photography Spots
Landscape Photography:
- Munnar: Rolling tea plantations and misty valleys
- Alleppey Backwaters: Serene waterways and village life
- Varkala Cliffs: Dramatic red cliffs against blue sea 28
Wildlife Photography:
- Periyar National Park: Elephants and tigers in their natural habitat
- Silent Valley National Park: Rich biodiversity and forest views
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Migratory birds and aquatic life 43
Cultural Photography:
- Fort Kochi: Colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets
- Festival celebrations: Colourful processions and traditional performances
- Local village life: Authentic scenes from backwater communities 28
Monsoon Travel in Kerala
Travelling during the monsoon season offers unique experiences 10 44:
Advantages of Monsoon Travel
Natural Beauty:
- Lush green landscapes at their peak
- Spectacular waterfalls and rejuvenated rivers
- Cooler temperatures and fresh air
- Fewer tourist crowds 10
Special Experiences:
- Ayurvedic treatments are most effective during monsoons
- Dramatic photography opportunities
- Romantic houseboat cruises in the rain
- Authentic local life experiences 10
Monsoon Travel Tips
- Pack waterproof clothing and footwear
- Carry extra masks and dry clothes
- Monitor weather forecasts and road conditions
- Avoid risky adventure activities unless with experienced guides 44
Working with Enjoy Holidays for Your Kerala Trip
Enjoy Holidays specialises in creating luxury and comfortable travel experiences for both domestic and international destinations. Their expertise in Kerala tourism ensures:
Services Offered
- Customised Itineraries: Tailored to your preferences and budget
- Luxury Accommodations: Premium resorts and heritage properties
- Expert Guides: Local knowledge and cultural insights
- 24×7 Support: Assistance throughout your journey
- Comfortable Transportation: Modern vehicles with experienced drivers
Why Choose Enjoy Holidays
- Established reputation in the travel industry
- Comprehensive travel services including flights, hotels, and activities
- Competitive pricing with transparent inclusions
- Customer satisfaction focuses on personalised attention
- Emergency support and crisis management capabilities
Conclusion
Kerala truly lives up to its name as “God’s Own Country,” offering an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual experiences. Whether you’re seeking a romantic honeymoon, an adventurous family vacation, or a peaceful wellness retreat, Kerala has something extraordinary to offer every traveller.
Choosing the right travel agent is crucial for maximising your Kerala experience. Look for agencies with proven track records, proper certifications, and local expertise. Enjoy Holidays stands out as a premium choice for travellers seeking luxury and comfort in their Kerala adventures.
Remember to plan according to the season, budget adequately for your preferences, and remain open to the magical experiences that Kerala offers. From floating through tranquil backwaters on traditional houseboats to trekking through misty tea plantations, from savouring authentic Kerala cuisine to experiencing rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments, your Kerala journey promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
Start planning your Kerala trip today, and prepare to fall in love with one of India’s most enchanting destinations. Let the skilled travel professionals guide you through this tropical paradise, ensuring every moment of your journey is filled with wonder, comfort, and authentic experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime.
Source Links
- Thomas Cook Kerala Packages
- Top 10 Travel Agencies in Kerala
- Thrillophilia Kerala Tours
- Best Kerala Tour Companies
- Kerala Travel Guide – Rough Guides
- Kerala Holidays About Us
- Top-Rated Tour Agencies Kerala
- eKerala Tourism
- Kerala Tourism Ultimate Guide
- Kerala Travels Reviews
