Take your mind off and think of being rocked to sleep in a houseboat and the smell of freshly brewed cardamom tea mixed all around. Out here, palms tell tales to wind while kingfishers court deep and azure fringes for a swim. This is not a dream – this is Kerala.
Have you ever wanted to meander on picture-perfect backwaters, enjoy the cool climate that comes with the smell of having tea plantations early morning, or stroll through the streets that tell stories dating back to colonial times? Kerala also known as ‘God’s own Country’ offers this and much more. If I were to build it, the tour would take you through the historic city of Cochin, the tea estates in Munnar, and finally the Houseboats of Alleppey.
A Gateway to Heritage: Cochin
The Kerala tour starts right from Cochin International Airport. The city is also called Kochi and it can indeed be referred to as the land of the historical blend with the contemporary. From the historical region enjoying Chinese fishing net views for that perfect photo with the perfect golden sunshine of the day Fort Kochi is welcoming you.
Visit the Jewish Synagogue and the spice bazaars which used to lure merchants from all parts of the world. You should not miss Dutch Palace with the captivating murals, and Kathakali show in the evening, if you get the chance. The restaurants by the sea will offer you an opportunity to have your first meal in Kerala, which is famous for its great culinary expertise.
Misty Mountains Calling: Munnar
Four hours drive from Ernakulam you get to Munnar, where you can find yourself surrounded by green hills full of tea gardens. The moment you get to the Western Ghats you will realise that the heat is much cooler and that there is fresh air. Experience a foggy morning in the mountains while you are on a trip in one of the many mountain resorts available and watch the tea gardens for as far as the eye can see.
Tea lovers can visit the Tea Museum to know why the tea from Munnar is so popular or take a guided tour of a plantation or two. Tourists can visit the top station for sightseeing or take a look at the endangered Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park. Local markets include fresh spices, homemade chocolates, and various aromatic oils and it is insightful to purchase them to use at home.
Backwater Bliss: Alleppey
The journey still goes on to Alleppey, the smallest city in India known as Venice of the East. Here is information on the famous Kerala houseboats popularly known as kettuvallams that are ready to embark on a backwater tour. These amazing float homes were originally rice barges and still provide the luxury and sophistication of air conditioning while preserving the country's feel.
Cruise through the serene, narrow, unwinding waterways of ‘Kettu’, where a glimpse of the village life of Keralan people is seen on the banks. Your chef will cook exotic Keralite meals on board – including freshly caught karimeen (pearl spot fish), layered rice, and fruit. The sunset over the backwaters as seen from your deck is one spectacle that will warm anyone’s heart, forever.
Useful advice to help you to get to the next step.
Airfare Insights:
- Currently, many local airlines have a fixed schedule for travel to Cochin from other parts of India.
- Suppose international connection can easily be made through Middle Eastern connecting stations
- Reserve your accommodation 2-3 months early as it will attract lower prices, especially during the high season.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March provides an average climate and a moderate amount of rainfall is another thing to add here.
- Main tourist visits are recorded during December and January; hence it is highly encouraged to make a booking
- Due to the rainy season from June to September, do not plan your trip to this area if you don’t like traveling in the rainy season
Accommodation Options:
- Cochin: Earlier heritage hotels located in the Fort Kochi region
- Munnar: Tea plantation views in some of the mountain resort
- Alleppey: Luxury floating homes or some good standard quality waterfront hotels.
Package Inclusions to Look For:
- Transport to, from, and between airports and other cities
- Rooms in 3-star or 4-star hotels
- Breakfast and houseboat food and drink
- The activity of going sightseeing with experienced guides
- Every fee to visit a monument
Just remember, if you are packing clothes for the journey make sure it is light clothing for Cochin and Alleppyy and a jacket for the cooler climate of Munnar. Do not neglect to bring your camera to make sure Kerala’s sceneries get captured appropriately.
Last Step of the Planning
This is more than a gorgeous island destination with scenic views it is a sensory experience for the soul. Quick descriptions of the site start with smelling the spice plantations and end with the flavors of Keralan cuisine, the sounds of temple bells, and the touch of ayurvedic massages. Plan your trip to God’s Own Country now so that you too can be a part of this series of lovely travel experiences. If you want to be relaxed about the planning, safety, and hospitality you have to take a tour package that is perfectly fits for you. GoGeo Holidays is a popular travel agency in Kerala, that offers customizable tour packages. Choose the best Kerala tour package and get the maximum out of your Kerala trip.