Travelers dreaming of exploring India’s most enchanting southern state—Kerala—may find this 6-day private tour by car to be a captivating way to see the highlights. Organized by Five Senses Tours, this journey promises a blend of culture, wildlife encounters, and relaxing backwater cruises, all while supporting local communities.
What we love about this tour is the thoughtfully curated itinerary, the chance to see Kerala’s iconic sights like the Mattancherry Palace and Chinese fishing nets, plus unique experiences like staying on a houseboat in the backwaters. The inclusion of local performances such as Kathakali dance and Kalarippayattu martial arts adds depth to the trip, making it more than just sightseeing.
One potential consideration is the pace—while six days cover a lot, travelers should be prepared for some long days, especially during travel between locations. The tour’s overall value comes from its detailed, authentic encounters and the chance to support local livelihoods.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet personalized experience of Kerala, with an interest in culture, wildlife, and traditional arts. If you’re looking for a well-organized, immersive trip with a local touch, this could be an excellent choice.
Good To Know
- Authentic local experiences are woven into the itinerary, supporting community livelihood.
- You’ll explore cultural highlights like Kathakali dance, martial arts, and historic sites.
- The houseboat stay on Kerala’s backwaters provides a memorable, relaxing experience.
- The trip is well-paced, with detailed visits to wildlife reserves and spice plantations.
- The tour is organized by a reputable company, ensuring attention to detail and safety.
- Some travelers, like Margaret, found communication issues, so clear pre-trip info is key.
The Itinerary in Detail
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Day 1: Exploring Kochi’s Cultural Heart
The journey kicks off in Kochi with visits to Mattancherry Palace, built in 1557 by the Portuguese and renovated by the Dutch in 1663. It’s a striking example of colonial architecture, with beautifully preserved murals and a shrine for Bhagavathi Temple in the central courtyard. Expect around 45 minutes here, with admission included.
Next, the Paradesi Synagogue in Jew Town offers a glimpse into Kerala’s Jewish history. It’s the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth, and the free entry makes it an accessible highlight. Expect about 45 minutes for this stop.
The Kerala Folklore Museum offers an ethnographic treasure trove—stone sculptures, tribal artifacts, traditional jewelry, and musical instruments. This museum provides context for Kerala’s diverse cultures, and an hour is well spent here, with included admission.
The iconic Chinese fishing nets are a must-see in Kochi. You’ll see these giant contraptions in action—perfect for photos and soaking in the lively seafront atmosphere. About 45 minutes here.
Finally, Fort Kochi is a hub of arts and history. You might catch a traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts demonstration, showcasing Kerala’s ancient combat techniques. This hour-long stop is free, and you’ll likely enjoy the vibrant street scenes.
The day wraps up at the Kerala Kathakali Center, where you’ll see a mesmerizing dance performance depicting stories from the Ramayana. Expect bright costumes and elaborate makeup—an unforgettable cultural experience.
Day 2: Village Life and Backwater Charm
A full morning in Kumbalangi allows you to connect with traditional fishing village life. Riding a country boat through the backwaters, you’ll witness local fishing and crab farming, gaining insights into Kerala’s coastal livelihood. The experience lasts four hours and is free—perfect for those craving authentic, hands-on encounters.
Day 3: Journey to Thekkady
The scenic drive from Kochi to Thekkady takes around four hours. The town is renowned for its spice plantations and proximity to wildlife reserves, offering a peaceful reprieve after busy city explorations.
Day 4: Wildlife and Spices
Periyar National Park is the highlight, covering 777 square kilometers of lush forest. Taking a boat safari here, you may glimpse elephants and tiger reserves—something wildlife lovers will appreciate. The park’s diverse ecosystem makes this a compelling visit for about two hours, with an included ticket.
Following this, Abraham’s Spice Garden gives you an aromatic immersion into Kerala’s spice trade. Walking through the plantations, you’ll learn about cardamom, pepper, ginger, and more—two hours that deepen your understanding of Kerala’s agriculture and culinary traditions.
Day 5: Backwater Bliss
A four-hour drive brings you to Alleppey, where you’ll board a houseboat for an overnight cruise along the backwaters. This experience is the tour’s crown jewel—gliding past rice paddies, fishing villages, and historic churches. The houseboat stay lasts approximately 18 hours, offering both relaxation and scenic beauty.
On the cruise, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and a glimpse into everyday life along the water. The overnight stay is a chance to unwind, watch sunsets, and listen to the gentle lapping of water.
Day 6: Farewell in Kochi
Returning to Kochi, a 90-minute drive takes you to Fort Kochi. After lunch, you’ll explore local spice bazaars before being dropped off at the airport. This final day wraps up your Kerala adventure with a taste of bustling markets and vibrant street life.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
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The thoroughness of the itinerary ensures you don’t miss key cultural and natural sights. From historic palaces to lively markets and tranquil backwaters, each stop offers a meaningful experience. The inclusion of local performances and artisan visits enriches the journey, providing cultural context often missing in typical tours.
Support for local communities is woven into the experience, with employment of local guides and partnerships with small businesses. This ethical approach elevates the tour from mere sightseeing to responsible travel.
The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility and personalized attention, which is especially valuable when navigating busy sites or adjusting pace based on your interests.
The houseboat experience is particularly praised for its scenic views and authentic ambiance, although it does mean a long night afloat. Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the stunning vistas as key positives.
Pricing at $1,190 per person, considering the accommodation, activities, and transportation, provides good value, especially given the comprehensive itinerary. However, travelers should be aware of the potential for communication hiccups, as some guests noted.
Practical Aspects and Tips
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Transportation is by private car, ensuring comfort and ease of travel between sites. The tour starts at 8:00 am, giving a full day of sightseeing. Though mostly suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues might need to consider the walking involved, especially at markets and museums.
The tour accommodates group discounts and includes mobile tickets, making it easy to organize and manage.
While the itinerary is packed, the pace allows for ample photography and soaking up the atmosphere—ideal for travelers who want a rundown without feeling rushed.
Final Thoughts
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This private Kerala tour offers a well-structured, authentic glimpse into the state’s culture, wildlife, and scenic beauty. Its careful combination of historical sights, lively markets, traditional performances, and tranquil backwaters makes it a compelling choice for curious travelers eager to experience Kerala’s true essence.
It’s particularly suited for those who value local interactions and cultural depth. The support for local communities adds a meaningful dimension that many travelers appreciate. While communication issues have been noted by some, overall, the tour’s organization and guides’ knowledge are highly praised.
For travelers wanting a thoughtfully curated, immersive experience that balances sightseeing with authentic encounters and responsible tourism, this tour hits the mark.
FAQ
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- What is included in the tour price? The tour covers private transportation, guide services, entrance fees for major sites, and accommodation on the houseboat. Some activities like market visits are free.
- How long is the houseboat stay? You will stay on the houseboat for approximately 18 hours, cruising Kerala’s backwaters overnight.
- Are meals included during the tour? The provided details focus on activities and accommodation; meals are not explicitly included but may be available on the houseboat or at local stops.
- Is this tour suitable for all ages? Generally, yes, but consider the walking involved at markets and cultural sites, and the long days.
- Can the tour be customized? As a private tour, there might be some flexibility, but specific customization options aren’t detailed.
- What is the best time to take this tour? The tour details don’t specify seasons, but generally, Kerala’s dry season from October to March is ideal.
- How many people usually join the tour? It’s a private experience, so the group size is limited to your party.
- Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup is offered; confirm your location when booking.
- Are there options for group discounts? Yes, group discounts are available, making it more affordable for families or small groups.
- What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, camera, and any personal essentials for a multi-day trip.
To sum it up, this Kerala tour is a robust way for travelers to see the best of God’s Own Country with knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences. It offers a balance of history, culture, wildlife, and relaxation—perfect for those wanting a deep, meaningful journey through southern India.