Kerala 6 Day Tour Munnar Thekkady Alleppey Kovalam Beaches

Kerala 6 Day Tour Munnar Thekkady Alleppey Kovalam Beaches Review

Traveling through Kerala in six days promises an adventure packed with lush landscapes, wildlife encounters, tranquil backwaters, and pristine beaches. This private tour, priced at $499 per person, has earned a perfect 5.0-star rating from three reviews, which speaks volumes about its value and appeal. While it’s not a budget trip, the inclusion of personalized service, private transportation, and authentic experiences make it a compelling choice for those craving a well-rounded taste of Kerala.

What we love about this tour are its scenic drives through waterfalls and spice plantations, the opportunity to see Nilgiri Tahr in Eravikulam National Park, and the unique experience of staying on a private houseboat along Kerala’s backwaters. The cultural shows and beach relaxation also add a vibrant touch.

However, a possible consideration is that the tour is quite packed, with multiple destinations in a short span, which might limit some leisurely exploration. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy seeing a variety of sights without extensive in-depth exploration at each stop. If you’re after a curated, hassle-free introduction to Kerala’s highlights, this tour is a great fit.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covering key Kerala attractions in just 6 days
• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility
• Authentic cultural experiences like Kerala dance and martial arts shows
• Includes a night on a private houseboat, which is a highlight for many travelers
• Ideal for those who want a balanced mix of nature, wildlife, culture, and beaches
• Potentially busy schedule that encourages efficient sightseeing

Discovering Kerala’s Natural Beauty

This tour begins with a pickup from Cochin International Airport or Ernakulam Railway Station, setting the stage for an engaging journey through some of Kerala’s most stunning landscapes. The first day’s drive to Munnar is nothing short of scenic, passing waterfalls such as Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls. These are perfect spots for quick photo stops and to marvel at Kerala’s lush, tropical scenery. The drive, approximately four hours, offers a relaxed start, especially if you opt to enjoy the views and take your time.

In Munnar, the tour includes a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, renowned for its population of Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat native to the Western Ghats. The park’s cool, misty atmosphere and rolling hills are a treat for nature lovers. Reviewers mention that the park is a highlight, with one noting the “famous for Nilgiri Tahr” aspect, which adds an element of wildlife spotting that’s both exciting and educational.

The Tea Museum and factory provide insight into Kerala’s historic tea industry, with opportunities to taste fresh brews and learn about tea production. We loved the way the tour combines these informative stops with scenic vistas, making every moment visually and culturally enriching.

Exploring Munnar’s Charms

On day two, the itinerary continues with more in-depth exploration of Munnar. Highlights include Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake. These spots are known for their calm waters and stunning surroundings, perfect for photos or a relaxing boat ride if you choose. Echo Point, in particular, is fun—shouts echo back, making it a playful experience for travelers of all ages.

The tour spends around four hours here, giving ample time for sightseeing and shopping in Munnar town. Reviewers highlight the value of the free admission tickets, which allow us to enjoy these attractions without additional costs. The town itself is known for spice markets and local handicrafts, making it a great place for some authentic shopping.

Wildlife, Culture & Spice in Thekkady

Day three takes us from tea gardens to spice plantations and wildlife. The drive to Thekkady is straightforward, and the highlight here is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. While the boat ride is optional, many travelers find it worthwhile, especially if you’re keen to spot elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Reviewers mention that the sanctuary offers a “great opportunity to see animals,” adding a real sense of adventure.

The spice plantation tour is another favorite, providing immersive insights into Kerala’s spice trade. It’s fascinating to see how spices like cardamom, pepper, and vanilla are cultivated, and it’s a sensory experience, with plenty of smells and textures to enjoy.

In the evening, the tour includes a Kerala cultural performance—either Kathakali or Kalaripayattu—an authentic display of local art forms. Travelers often praise these shows for their vibrancy and storytelling, offering a window into Kerala’s cultural soul.

A Unique Stay on the Backwaters

Day four shifts gears to one of Kerala’s most iconic experiences: staying on a private houseboat in Alleppey. The cruise through palm-fringed canals and village scenes offers a peaceful, immersive look at rural life. The onboard meals—lunch, snacks, dinner, breakfast—are included, and reviewers often describe the experience as “absolutely magical.” The gentle sway of the boat and the views of coconut groves make for memorable moments.

This houseboat stay, lasting around four hours, is often singled out as a highlight, combining luxury with authentic backwater scenery. It’s an excellent way to unwind after days of sightseeing.

Relaxing on Kerala’s Beaches

The journey concludes in Kovalam, a beach lover’s paradise with three main beaches: Lighthouse, Hawah, and Samudra. The tour allows about four hours here to relax, swim, or stroll along the sands. Many travelers appreciate the optional Ayurvedic massage, which provides a soothing end to their busy trip.

If time permits, a quick visit to Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the Napier Museum in Trivandrum offers a cultural fix before departure. While the reviews note that the temple visit depends on timing, most agree that the beaches alone are worth the trip.

Practical Aspects & Value

This tour includes five nights of hotel accommodation with double or twin sharing rooms, and a night on the houseboat, all meals on the boat, private air-conditioned vehicle with driver, and airport/railway station transfers. The price of $499 seems quite reasonable given the inclusions, especially considering the private transportation and custom experiences.

The flexibility of a private tour allows for a more tailored experience, and the small-group or private nature means you won’t be lost in a crowd. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with mentions of responsive guides like Prasanna Kumar, who consistently went above and beyond, whether answering questions or managing small hiccups like vehicle issues.

The tour’s schedule, however, is quite tight, and some may find the pace a little rushed. But for those eager to see a broad swath of Kerala’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, this package offers a great mix of structured sightseeing and culture.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you value convenience, personalized service, and a thoughtfully curated list of Kerala’s top sights, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for travelers who want an efficient, well-organized introduction to Kerala’s diverse landscapes and culture.

Families, first-time visitors, or groups who prefer to relax rather than drive and plan every stop will find this package particularly appealing. On the flip side, those seeking deep dives into specific areas or more leisure time may find the schedule a bit brisk.

Overall, for a price of $499, it offers a memorable snapshot of Kerala’s best—combining scenic beauty, wildlife, culture, and beaches into a seamless six-day adventure.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides pickup from Cochin International Airport or Ernakulam Railway Station, ensuring a smooth start to your trip.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in hotels for five nights in double or twin rooms, plus a night on a private houseboat with all meals included.

Are all the attractions included in the price?
Most sightseeing as per the itinerary is included, and admission to sites like waterfalls and parks is free. The boat ride at Periyar Sanctuary is optional.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can likely discuss preferences with the provider, but the itinerary is designed to offer a balanced overview of Kerala’s highlights.

What are the transportation arrangements?
A private air-conditioned vehicle with a driver handles all transfers, offering comfort and flexibility.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before the start are not eligible for a refund, so plan accordingly.

This Kerala 6 Day Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience for those eager to explore its natural and cultural riches with comfort and ease. Perfect for first-time visitors or travelers wanting a hassle-free yet immersive taste of Kerala’s diverse charms.