Best of Kerala Tour Package 7 nights / 8 days by Sanguine Holidays

Intro: What to Expect from This Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Kerala’s diverse landscape and culture without the hassle of planning, this 8-day package from Sanguine Holidays might just be your perfect match. It offers a well-rounded taste of everything—rich history, lush mountains, tranquil backwaters, and pristine beaches—all with a focus on comfort and personalization.

What we love about this experience is its comprehensive itinerary, the personalized service of a private guide, and the inclusion of unique activities like staying on a houseboat. The value for money seems solid, considering all meals, accommodations, and private transport are included. A potential consideration? The tour is quite packed, so if you prefer slow-paced travel, some days might feel a tad rushed.

This tour is best suited for those who want to cover Kerala’s main highlights efficiently, enjoy quality accommodations, and appreciate guided insights along the way. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, couples, or families eager to see the best of “God’s Own Country” in comfort.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with accommodations, meals, and private transport
• Private guided tour provides tailored attention and local insights
• Diverse itinerary combining culture, nature, wildlife, and beaches
• Flexible and customizable itinerary with excellent reviews on responsiveness
• Value for money considering the comprehensive experiences included
• Expert guides and drivers praised for their knowledge and friendliness

A Complete Breakdown of the Itinerary and What It Means for You

Day 1: Kochi’s Heritage and Cultural Gems

Your journey begins in Kochi (Cochin), a city bursting with history and vibrant sights. The tour features visits to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which showcases Kerala murals, wood crafts, and royal artifacts. The architecture alone offers a glimpse into Kerala’s regal past, with reviewers highlighting the building’s elegant design.

Next, the Paradesi Synagogue stands out as the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth, constructed in 1568. Visitors often find the gold crowns, Belgian chandeliers, and 10th-century copper plates fascinating. The Chinese fishing nets provide a picturesque scene, with their stationary lift nets symbolizing Kochi’s fishing heritage.

The Kerala Folklore Museum adds depth, with over 6,000 artifacts representing traditional Kerala art and culture. Its architecture—wood, laterite stone, and clay tiles—is a highlight, making it more than just a display of artifacts but a cultural experience.

The day culminates at the Hill Palace Museum, Kerala’s largest archaeological museum set within a sprawling complex. Expect exhibits on the royal family, sculptures, coins, and weapons, all set amidst a lush environment with a deer park and prehistoric remains.

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Munnar with Waterfalls

Traveling into the hills, the drive to Munnar reveals some of Kerala’s most scenic waterfalls. The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are the perfect spots for photography and soaking in the natural beauty. Reviewers love their powerful cascades, especially post-monsoon, when they’re at their fullest.

These stops, although brief, showcase the lush greenery and vibrant biodiversity that make Munnar famous. Expect tranquil views of dense forests and cascading water, with many travelers noting that these waterfalls are a highlight of the journey.

Day 3: Exploring Munnar’s Mountain Magic

This day focuses on Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park’s rolling hills and rare wildlife promise a memorable experience, especially if you’re a nature enthusiast. Reviewers mention that the park closes during the calving season (February-March), so planning around that is key.

You’ll also visit the Mattupetty Dam, where boat rides are available—an excellent way to see the surrounding hills and wildlife up close. The Echo Point is renowned for its natural sound reflection, often drawing crowds eager to test their voices.

In the afternoon, Kundala Dam Lake offers options for boating and horse rides, while the Rose Gardens provide a fragrant, colorful finale. Tour reviews frequently mention the breathtaking mountain views and the sense of serenity in these mountain spots.

Day 4: Wildlife and Nature in Thekkady

The highlight of this day is Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Kerala’s most famous reserves. The sanctuary’s boating experience on the man-made lake is a favorite among visitors—many mention that spotting elephants and other wildlife from the boat is a major thrill.

This part of the tour emphasizes the importance of conservation and offers a chance to see Kerala’s rich biodiversity firsthand. Expect lush surroundings, birdwatching opportunities, and, if luck is on your side, elephant sightings.

Day 5: Backwater Bliss on a Houseboat

One of the most iconic Kerala experiences, the houseboat stay in Alleppey, is included here. The backwaters are often described as serene, enchanting, and uniquely peaceful. The boat provides an authentic glimpse into rural Kerala life, with lush greenery on either side and the gentle sound of water.

Meals are served on the houseboat—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—allowing you to savor local flavors while drifting through tranquil waters. Multiple reviews highlight how this overnight stay feels like a “floating hotel,” with many calling it a highlight of the trip.

Day 6: Relaxing on Kovalam Beach

After days of sightseeing, the tour offers some relaxation at Kovalam Beach. Known for its golden sands and calm waters, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. Reviewers appreciate the cleanliness and natural beauty of the beach, as well as the chance to experience local beach culture.

You might find local vendors selling souvenirs or fresh seafood, adding to the authentic seaside vibe. It’s a laid-back day designed to balance the busy sightseeing days.

Day 7: Cultural and Historical Highlights in Thiruvananthapuram

The final full day includes visits to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an architectural marvel and spiritual center, and the Napier Museum, showcasing Kerala’s artistic and cultural heritage. The museum’s air-conditioned comfort is a welcome break during the heat, and its artifacts—bronze idols, ancient ornaments—are often described as fascinating.

The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is another highlight, noted as one of the oldest in India. Visitors often appreciate how these attractions offer a well-rounded perspective on Kerala’s history, religion, and natural world.

Day 8: Departure with Ease

The tour concludes with a transfer to Thiruvananthapuram Airport, making the end of your trip smooth and hassle-free. The transfer is typically quick, and the tour ends without the need for additional planning.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

When you consider the price of $553.71 per person, it’s clear that this package offers significant value. It bundles accommodations, meals, private transport, and expert guides into one seamless experience, saving you the hassle and expense of planning each part separately.

Several reviews highlight the quality of the guides and drivers, often praising their knowledge and friendliness. The inclusion of meals on the houseboat and at hotels makes the overall experience even more convenient, allowing you to indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine without worrying about extra costs.

The accommodation quality—deluxe hotels and a houseboat—adds to the comfort, making the trip suitable even for those accustomed to higher standards of travel. Many travelers mention that the hotels were well-chosen, often in prime locations, and that the food was delicious.

Practical Aspects to Keep in Mind

The tour operates with private AC transportation, which is a huge plus in Kerala’s often humid climate and busy roads. The timings are set for optimal sightseeing, and the private guides offer personalized insights, making the experience more enriching.

The reviews also reflect high satisfaction with the responsiveness of the tour provider, especially Nimisha, who helped customize the trip and handled any changes smoothly. There is no guide included in the tour, but the private driver and guides are praised for their local knowledge.

Note that entrance fees for attractions like Mattancherry Palace, the Synagogue, and the museums are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to visit all sites. Also, airfare or train fares are not part of the package, so plan those separately.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Best of Kerala tour offers a solid, well-balanced experience for travelers who want to see Kerala’s most famous sights without the stress of logistics. The all-inclusive approach, combined with highly-rated guides and accommodations, makes it ideal for first-timers or busy travelers looking to maximize their time.

If you value authentic experiences, cultural insights, and scenic beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes. The private nature and flexible itinerary make it adaptable to your preferences, while the variety of stops ensures you won’t get bored.

However, if you prefer slow, unplanned travel or off-the-beaten-path adventures, this package might feel a bit structured. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Kerala’s highlights with good value for your money.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this a group tour or private?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for personalized attention and flexibility.

Are meals included?
Yes, you get all breakfasts, plus lunch and dinner on the houseboat. Additional meals outside of the specified ones are not included.

What about entrance fees?
Entrance fees to attractions like Mattancherry Palace, the Synagogue, and museums are not included, so plan to pay those separately if you wish to visit.

How is transportation arranged?
A private air-conditioned car is provided for transfers and sightseeing, operated by an experienced driver. Reviewers consistently praise the driver’s friendliness and knowledge.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the package is set, the tour provider has a reputation for responding promptly and helping with any needed adjustments, especially through Nimisha’s support.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the trip. The pace is generally comfortable, with options for sightseeing, relaxing, and enjoying nature.

How fit do I need to be?
Most activities involve walking and some stairs, such as at temples and museums. Reviewers note that guides are helpful with explanations to make transitions smoother.

What’s the best time to book?
On average, travelers book about 43 days in advance, likely due to the popularity during peak seasons. The tour is suitable year-round, but consider avoiding monsoon months if you prefer dry weather.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are explicitly mentioned, but expect to pay for entrance fees, optional activities, and personal expenses separately.

Final Words

If you’re craving an all-in-one Kerala experience without the stress, this tour does a commendable job balancing sightseeing, comfort, and culture. Reviewers rave about the guides, the food, and the scenic highlights, all at a price that feels fair for what’s included.

This trip suits travelers who want a guided, worry-free journey that captures Kerala’s essence—from storied cities and spice mountains to backwaters and beaches. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off major sights with the help of friendly local experts.

For those seeking a thoughtful, well-organized introduction to Kerala, complemented by authentic experiences and comfortable accommodations, this tour package may just be your best choice.