Kerala tours

Time magazine has chosen Kerala among 50 ‘extraordinary destinations’ across the globe to explore in 2022. Kerala is ranked ninth in the ‘World’s Greatest Places 2022’ list as an ‘eco-tourism hot spot’. “With spectacular beaches and lush backwaters, temples and palaces, it’s known as ‘God’s own country for good reason.”

Tucked in South India, between the lush Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Kerala is one among the best travel experiences India has to offer. Nicknamed “God’s Own Country”, the land is blessed with hill stations, backwaters, beaches, tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, quaint villages and multi-ethnic towns. The blissful experiences offered by Kerala tours is cherished by families, couples on honeymoon, adventure enthusiasts, solo backpackers, spiritual seekers and everyone seeking a vacation to cherish.

So, what does the land have, that is believed to be a heaven on earth? Here’s why this is one haven that is perfect for holidays in India. The land has abundance of natural beauty that includes lush hills dotted with waterfalls, tea gardens and spice plantations, azure backwaters, scenic shores and verdant jungles. Besides, there is the mouth-watering cuisine, adventure sports, relaxing Ayurveda breaks and spiritual quests that make Kerala tour packages worthwhile. While you are planning the ultimate post-COVID vacation in Kerala, here are the best places to cover.

Alleppey
Home to scenic backwater tours, Alleppey is one of the best tourist places in Kerala. The picturesque network of lakes, rivers, and lagoons is described as the Venice of the East. Exploring the backwaters is best enjoyed on houseboats. Cruise on the traditional houseboat of the romantic backwaters making it a memorable experience. Houseboats in Kerala offer overnight journeys while enjoying amenities like lavish rooms, attached washrooms, on-board food and more.
Must-visit places: St. Andrews Church, Chettikulangara Bhagawathy Temple and Punnamada Lake. The annual Snake Boat Races are the popular attraction of Alleppey.

Cochin
Cochin is without doubt one of the most popular tourist destinations to visit in Kerala. Known as the “Queen of Arabian Sea”, the port city is a well-known for its heritage and multi-ethnic culture. The gateway to Kerala, the city has many ancient forts, palaces, churches, museums, restaurants, heritage walks and so much more. The charming sites, the colourful culture, cuisine, and experiences make every visit incredible.
Must-visit places: Santa Cruz Basilica, Hill Palace, Mattancherry Palace, Fort Kochi and Marine Drive

Munnar
Nestled in the lap of the Western Ghats, Munnar is among the most beautiful hill towns in India. Hills covered in mist, roaring waterfalls, lush green tea estates, dense forests, rare wildlife, natural bliss as far as the eye can see, Munnar is the retreat to rest your weary souls. Be it adventure or relaxation, the hill town is an epitome of wanderlust.
Must-visit places: Anamudi Peak, Kuthumkal Waterfalls, Echo Point, Observatory Hills and Power House Waterfalls

Kovalam
One of the most popular beach destinations in India, Kovalam lies close to Kerala's capital. The meaning of Kovalam is the ‘grove of coconut trees’. Blessed with palm-fringed shores, the town is home to a number of beach resorts and spa therapy centers. A popular tourist destination, Kovalam is a haven for beach lovers, watersport-enthusiasts, honeymoon couples and everyone seeking respite from daily lives.

Must-visit places: Hawah Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Samudra Beach, Vellayani Lake, Halcyon Castle and Kovalam Art Gallery

Kumarakom
Home to the famous backwaters of Kerala, Kumarakom is a pleasant town nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake. This stretch of the backwaters are a haven for birds’ especially migratory ones. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s paradise where one can spot birds in their natural habitat. The soothing weather, swaying palms, mangrove trees, paddy farms and lagoons. Savor houseboat tours and pampering Ayurveda massages along with activities like sightseeing, canoeing and fishing.
Must-visit places: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Pathiramanal, Bay Island Driftwood Museum and Chavara Bhavan

Thekkady

Last but definitely not the least, Thekkady is one of the best tourist destinations in Kerala to be included in your itinerary. The Periyar National Park is the star attraction along with tea, coffee and spice plantations. Explore the lush greenery, stay at the jungle resorts of Periyar. Wildlife safaris in Periyar include exploring herds of elephants, tigers, langurs and the species of the animal. Thekkady also offers the chance to enjoy an array of rare Indian spices.
Must-visit places: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Periyar Lake.

Time magazine has chosen Kerala among 50 ‘extraordinary destinations’ across the globe to explore in 2022. Kerala is ranked ninth in the ‘World’s Greatest Places 2022’ list as an ‘eco-tourism hot spot’. “With spectacular beaches and lush backwaters, temples and palaces, it’s known as ‘God’s own country for good reason.”

Tucked in the Southern frontiers of India, between the lush Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Kerala has some of the best travel experiences India has to offer. Nicknamed “God’s Own Country”, the land is blessed with hill stations, backwaters, beaches, tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, quaint villages and multi-ethnic towns. The blissful experiences offered by Kerala tours are cherished by families, couples on honeymoon, adventure enthusiasts, solo backpackers, spiritual seekers and everyone seeking a vacation to cherish.

So, what does the land have, that is believed to be a heaven on earth? Here’s why this is one haven that is perfect for holidays in India with friends, family and for honeymoon. The land has an abundance of natural beauty that includes lush hills dotted with waterfalls, tea gardens and spice plantations, azure backwaters, scenic shores and verdant jungles. Besides, there is the mouth-watering cuisine, adventure sports, relaxing Ayurveda breaks and spiritual quests that make Kerala tour packages worthwhile.

Among travellers visiting India for a beach holiday, both Goa and Kerala have earned a reputation. People flock to these destinations when a relaxing vacation on the beach is on their minds. But when you have to choose either of the two, it becomes a tough decision to take. Goa has its charms while Kerala offers other pleasures. You can choose to visit any one or both of them together creating a memorable vacation to cherish a lifetime.

Goa vs. Kerala

Goa is much smaller in size than Kerala, but not for beaches and water fun. Its landscapes are equally scenic. Palm-fringed beaches and coastal laterite headlands add to its glamor. Its paddy hinterlands and coconut groves, along with thickly forested mountains, make Goa a vacationer’s dream come true. Even north and south Goa landscapes differ, presenting a chance to choose from which one you want to head first. North Goa is known for its party vibes while South Goa is famous for its secluded beaches.

Kerala, fondly addressed – God’s Own Country, Kerala allures nature lovers. It has attractions that fascinate tourists to the core, both in rural and urban tastes. Its festivals, temples, churches, backwaters, picturesque landscapes, traditional art forms, and Ayurvedic sessions are major aspects that highlight the charm of Kerala. Its mountains are higher and have a climate different from the coastal belt. The higher slopes are carpeted by tea, coffee, and spice plantations.

Goa and Kerala – Best Time to Visit

Both the destinations are tropical. Thus, experience a coastal climate. However, there are specific differences in month wise weather. Different months have something unique to offer. Also, there are certain festivals and events celebrated in different months.

November to February is the peak tourist season in Goa, and prices are high. The weather remains pleasant and great for sightseeing and indulging in various activities. During these months, you can delight in hip and happening festivals that include Christmas Eve, Sunburn festival, Grape escapade, VH1 Supersonic, Goa food and cultural festival, and Goa Carnival. The famous religious events of Goa include Shantadurga (January), Shigmotsav (Shigmo) and Carnival (March), and Feast of St Francis Xavier (December). To explore the freshly washed and emerald countryside with pristine beaches, visit Goa from June to October. These are the months of monsoon in Goa and present the hidden sides of this coastal place. However, the monsoon can hinder your watersports plans in Goa.

The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March. This is the peak tourist season in Kerala, thanks to the pleasant weather. You can also enjoy beaches and backwaters the most during these months. Additionally, you can indulge in various activities such as camping, trekking, wildlife safari, etc. Different festivals during these months add to your charm of visiting Kerala. These festivals include Onam, Kerala Boat Festival, Christmas, Muharram, Navratri, Mahashivratri, Guruvayur, Chittur Konganpada, and The Bharani Utsavam.

Those who love rain can explore Kerala from June to August. Apart from enjoying the lush greenery and rain-washed surroundings, the monsoon season is the best for Ayurvedic Treatments in Kerala.

Goa vs Kerala – Accommodation

Goa is a much-loved destination that is splashed by many accommodation options to suit travelers of every budget. However, beachside accommodation in Goa is expensive due to the international tourist influx. There are several beach shacks, beach huts, and beach villas to impart you a beachy vibe during your vacay. Luxurious hotels and resorts are also generously found all over.

Kerala, just like Goa, provides accommodation options at beaches as beach resorts or beach villas but at a little lesser cost as compared to Goa. Other than its beaches, tourists can stay in the middle of lush green tea plantations in Kerala. There are many guest houses and hotels as well to choose from. There are many budgets, luxurious, and mid-range accommodation options to cater to the requirements of its vacationers. You can also enjoy unique stay accommodations like treehouses and houseboats. To savor the traditional Keral-ite essence, you can also opt for a homestay.

Goa vs Kerala- Trip Duration and Budget

To explore the best of Goa and Kerala, you have to keep maple time in hand, considering your requirements and attractions to explore. Also, Kerala is much bigger than Goa, so much more days are required to get to Kerala. It is noteworthy that Goa is relatively less expensive than Kerala.

When it comes to accommodation costs, you can stay comfortably in homestays and beach shacks of Goa. Also, other affordable accommodation options could be found easily in Goa due to its backpacker’s image. Whereas in Kerala, you have options to choose from resorts, hotels, treehouses, houseboats.

You can have your fill at beach shacks in Goa at low rates, whereas in Kerala, several high-end restaurants serve you food with few cheap eateries.

Among things to do, Goa entertains you at cheap rates. Enjoy dolphin spotting, parasailing, snorkeling, and surfing without shelling out much. The best of adventure in Kerala comes at a good expenditure. Cruising in houseboats, spa sessions, and the like charge you a considerable amount.

Conclusion: If a shorter trip is on your cards, Goa is the best bet. However, if you have a good time in hand, Kerala will not disappoint you. When it comes to budget, for Kerala, you have to be more spendthrift. Goa keeps you delighted at a comparatively low budget.