Kerala, an Indian state along the southwestern Malabar Coast, is a magnet for tourists. This part of India is highly acclaimed by National Geographic Traveler as one of the world’s ten paradises. Beyond its bustling trading centres, Kerala’s coastline is a mosaic of rice paddies, coconut palms, mangroves, marshes, and the intricate backwaters that connect them, providing a stunning backdrop for Kerala holidays. The state has brilliantly built its reputation on ecotourism and the allure of its backwaters. With a distinct history, culture, and traditions shaping everyday life, Kerala has many travel stories to tell its visitors.
Kerala’s beauty goes far beyond its famous beaches, making holidays to Kerala a truly diverse experience. As you move inland, the flat coast rises into the cool Western Ghats mountains, a range older than the Himalayas. Here, you’ll find Munnar, a beautiful hill station famous for its wide tea gardens. Sitting around 1,600 metres above sea level, Munnar offers cool weather and some of the best hiking trails in South India — a peaceful escape from the warmer coastal plains.
Nature lovers will also enjoy Kerala’s protected forests. Periyar National Park is a major highlight of any Kerala India holiday. According to the Kerala Tourism Department, this wildlife sanctuary covers over 900 square kilometres, home to wild elephants, rare birds, and Bengal tigers. Visitors can take safe boat rides on the lake to spot these animals in their natural habitat.
Kerala is also famous for its rich living culture. If you visit between August and September, you can experience Onam, the state’s biggest festival, featuring traditional snake boat races where dozens of rowers move in perfect rhythm. You can also watch Kathakali dance performances, which tell ancient stories through colourful costumes and expressive face paint.
Planning your Kerala holiday is easy, as the state is highly accessible from the UK. Most travellers fly into Cochin International Airport, which connects Kerala to the rest of the world. Booking a tailor-made trip with a Kerala specialist means you can experience all of these sights seamlessly. Whether you want to relax on a houseboat or explore a misty mountain, Indian Odyssey offers the perfect mix of relaxation and real adventure.
Kerala rewards travellers who mix regions rather than picking just one. A well-balanced Kerala holiday typically combines:
Kochi (Cochin) — Kerala’s cultural gateway, known for its spice markets, Chinese fishing nets, and a mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial history along the waterfront.
Munnar — rolling tea plantations and cool mountain air, ideal for walking and slowing down after time on the coast.
Alleppey & Kumarakom — the heart of the backwaters, best explored by traditional houseboat.
Kovalam & Marari — Kerala’s most popular beach towns, perfect for a relaxed finish to your trip.
Most of our Kerala holidays combine three or four of these regions into one seamless, tailor-made route.
October to March is the most popular time for a Kerala holiday — dry, warm, and comfortable for sightseeing, backwaters and beach time.
April to May is hotter and quieter, with fewer tourists around.
June to September is monsoon season — landscapes turn lush and green, and it’s a popular time for Ayurveda retreats, though expect heavy rainfall, especially on the coast.
Most of our clients spend 7–12 days in Kerala, which is enough time to comfortably combine the backwaters, a hill station like Munnar, and a beach stay. If you’re adding Kerala onto a wider India tour (such as the Golden Triangle or Tamil Nadu), 3–5 days works well as a relaxing finish to your trip.
All our trips can be tailored to suit your specific interests, budget or style
All our tailor-made holidays can include international flights from UK and depart from your choice of airport or include your preferred airlines
Our expert team ensures every aspect is seamlessly planned, while our local support team keeps your journey smooth from start to finish.
Contact our destination expert who have extensively travelled the region on 01224023535 or request a call back from us
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