Kerala Tour Packages: A Journey through God’s Own Country

                              Kerala Tour Packages: A Journey through God’s Own Country

Kerala, often called "God's Own Country," is a land of diverse landscapes, from serene backwaters and lush hill stations to golden beaches and vibrant cultural experiences. Numerous tour packages cater to various interests and durations. Here's a comprehensive overview of what you can expect from Kerala tour packages:

Common Themes and Inclusions:

Most Kerala tour packages, regardless of duration, often include:

• Accommodation: Options range from budget-friendly hotels and cozy homestays to luxurious resorts and unique houseboat stays. The type of accommodation depends on the package's price point and focus.
• Transportation: This typically covers intercity transfers and local sightseeing. Depending on the package, this might be in a private car, tourist bus, or even involve train journeys for longer distances.
• Meals: Many packages include breakfast, and some might also include lunch and dinner, especially in houseboat stays or more inclusive resort packages.
• Sightseeing: The itinerary will cover visits to popular tourist attractions based on the chosen destinations.
• Assistance: Some packages offer the services of a tour guide or assistance from local representatives.

Popular Kerala Destinations Covered in Tour Packages:

• Munnar: Famous for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and scenic viewpoints like Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Eravikulam National Park (home to the Nilgiri Tahr). Packages often include tea factory visits and spice plantation tours.
• Alleppey (Alappuzha): Known as the "Venice of the East," Alleppey is renowned for its tranquil backwaters and houseboat cruises. Packages often feature overnight stays in houseboats, offering a unique experience of Kerala's rural life.
• Kochi (Cochin): A city blending historical charm with modern vibrancy. Key attractions include Fort Kochi with its Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), and the Jewish Synagogue. Cultural experiences like Kathakali dance performances are often included.
• Thekkady (Periyar): Home to the Periyar National Park, offering opportunities for wildlife safaris (boat safaris are popular), spice plantation visits, and trekking.
• Wayanad: A hill district with lush forests, waterfalls (like Sochipura Falls and Meenmutty Falls), historical caves (Edakkal Caves), and viewpoints (like Lakkidi View Point and Chembra Peak). Ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
• Kovalam and Varkala: Famous for their beautiful beaches, cliffside views, and Ayurvedic wellness centers. Packages might include beach time, water sports (in some cases), and opportunities for Ayurvedic massages.
• Kumarakom: Known for its serene backwaters, bird sanctuary, and Vembanad Lake. Often combined with Alleppey for backwater experiences.
• Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram): The capital city with attractions like the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, and Shanghumukham Beach. Often serves as an arrival or departure point.

Types of Kerala Tour Packages:

• Honeymoon Packages: These often focus on romantic destinations like Munnar, Alleppey (houseboats), and secluded beach resorts, with added inclusions like candlelit dinners and flower decorations.
• Family Packages: Designed to cater to families, these might include visits to wildlife parks, amusement parks (if available), and comfortable family-friendly accommodations.
• Adventure Packages: Focusing on activities like trekking, wildlife safaris, water sports, and exploring less-trodden paths in destinations like Wayanad and Thekkady.
• Cultural and Heritage Packages: Emphasizing visits to historical sites, temples, churches, and opportunities to witness Kerala's art forms and traditions.
• Ayurveda and Wellness Packages: Centered around traditional Ayurvedic treatments, yoga retreats, and wellness resorts for rejuvenation.
• Backwater-focused Packages: Primarily covering Alleppey and Kumarakom, with an emphasis on houseboat stays and exploring the backwater network.
• Hill Station Packages: Concentrating on the misty hills of Munnar, Wayanad, and sometimes Vagamon, offering scenic beauty and pleasant climates.
• Short Getaway Packages: Typically 2-3 nights, focusing on one or two key destinations like a quick trip to Munnar or a backwater experience in Alleppey.
• Longer Duration Packages: Ranging from a week to ten days or more, covering multiple destinations and offering a more comprehensive experience of Kerala.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Package:

• Duration: Decide how many days you want to spend in Kerala.
• Interests: Identify your priorities – are you interested in nature, culture, relaxation, adventure, or a mix?
• Budget: Tour packages vary significantly in price based on accommodation, transportation, and inclusions.
• Destinations: Choose the places in Kerala that you wish to visit. Many packages offer combinations of popular destinations.
• Travel Style: Do you prefer independent travel with a pre-booked itinerary or guided tours with a group?
• Inclusions: Carefully check what is included in the package (accommodation type, meals, sightseeing, transfers, guide services).
• Customization: Many tour operators offer the flexibility to customize packages based on your preferences.

Finding Tour Packages:

Numerous online travel portals, local tour operators in Kerala and other major Indian cities (like Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi), and even the official Kerala Tourism website offer a wide range of tour packages. It's advisable to compare different packages based on inclusions, price, and reviews before making a booking.

In conclusion, Kerala tour packages provide a convenient way to explore the diverse beauty and culture of this captivating state.