Kerala Escorted Tours
From mountains to spice plantations, from rice boats to diamond factories: Kerala is such a rich and vibrant part of India with so much for UK visitors to discover. Our Escorted Tour of Kerala will take you to the best this state of India has to offer, from the historic cities of Kochi (centre of India's spice trade) and Trivandrum to the peaceful lagoons and rivers of Kerala's famed backwaters.
Your tour of Kerala is just a phone call away
Call our Travel Specialists today on 0800 408 0506
Where possible we have secured a limited number of places without a single Supplement on each escorted tour. These are strictly subject to availability and once they are all booked a supplement will apply.
All of our English speaking local guides are passionate about their country and will accompany you from the moment you arrive in your destination, throughout your escorted tour and right until your departing flight home.
All the hotels chosen for these escorted tours have been personally sourced and inspected by us. We pride ourselves on offering you comfortable, handpicked accommodation in some of the best locations around the world.
Once you have booked, we will send you a comprehensive dossier with all your accommodation details, flight and airport information, country advice and other useful tips such as what to pack and luggage allowance.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Your guide to visiting Kerala
Popular Destinations in Kerala
Kerala is India’s serene southern jewel, where palm-fringed backwaters meet misty hills, and ancient traditions blend with lush tropical beauty. From spice-scented towns to tranquil beaches, our escorted tours take you through the state’s most iconic highlights.
Kochi (Cochin)
A historic port city with a rich colonial past, Kochi is a vibrant mix of cultures. Explore the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and St. Francis Church, then stroll through Fort Kochi with its art galleries, spice markets, and iconic Chinese fishing nets. The city’s layered history and coastal charm make it a perfect introduction to Kerala.
Munnar
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a hill station blanketed in tea plantations and cool mountain air. Visit a working tea estate, walk through fragrant spice gardens, and enjoy panoramic views from Top Station. The region’s green slopes and quiet trails offer a refreshing contrast to the coast.
The Backwaters
Kerala’s backwaters are a network of canals, lakes, and rivers lined with coconut palms and village life. Cruise through Alleppey or Kumarakom aboard a traditional houseboat, watching daily life unfold along the water’s edge. It’s a peaceful, slow-paced experience that captures the essence of Kerala.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located near Thekkady, Periyar is one of India’s most scenic wildlife reserves. Take a boat ride on the lake, spot elephants and birds in the forest, and explore spice plantations nearby. The sanctuary offers a gentle introduction to India’s natural diversity.
Kovalam & the Coast
Kerala’s coastline is dotted with golden beaches and fishing villages. Kovalam is a favourite, with its crescent-shaped shores and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy Ayurvedic treatments, fresh seafood, and sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Kerala has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and seasonal rains. The most pleasant times to visit are October to March, when the weather is cooler, dry, and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Winter (October – February)
This is Kerala at its finest! The air is crisp, the skies are clear, and the scenery is vibrant after the monsoon. Whether you're gliding through the backwaters on a houseboat, spotting wildlife in Periyar, or wandering through the spice-scented hills of Munnar, winter is ideal for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
Summer (March – May)
Though the days can be warm and humid, summer brings its own charm. It’s a great time to escape to the cool hill stations, enjoy fewer crowds, and witness colorful festivals like Vishu. Early mornings are perfect for sightseeing, and the evenings come alive with local flavours and traditions.
Food & Drink in Kerala
Kerala’s cuisine is fragrant, spicy, and deeply tied to the land and sea. Meals often feature coconut, curry leaves, and fresh seafood, served on banana leaves and shared with warmth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sadya – A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, with rice, pickles, curries, and sweet payasam. Meen Curry – Spicy fish curry made with tamarind and coconut, a coastal staple. Appam & Stew – Soft rice pancakes paired with a mild coconut-based vegetable or meat stew. Puttu & Kadala – Steamed rice cakes with black chickpea curry, a popular breakfast. Banana Chips – Thin, crispy slices fried in coconut oil—perfect for snacking.
Sip on fresh coconut water, spiced chai, or filter coffee. Try toddy, a mildly alcoholic palm sap drink found in village taverns, or enjoy a cooling lime soda on a warm day.
Tips for Planning Your Kerala Tour
When planning your tour of Kerala, think about the kind of experience you’re after—whether it’s cruising the backwaters, walking through tea-scented hills, or relaxing on the coast. Our itineraries are designed to showcase the state’s most iconic highlights, combining nature, culture, and comfort.
The most popular travel season—October to March—offers pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes, making it ideal for sightseeing, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Booking in advance is recommended.
Our escorted tours offer a smooth and enriching way to explore Kerala’s diverse regions. With local expertise, thoughtful planning, and seamless logistics, you’ll enjoy a deeper connection to the state’s traditions, flavours, and natural beauty.
