Kerala Tour Packages from Bhubaneswar

Best Time to Visit Kerala from Bhubaneswar

Kerala offers year-round experiences, but timing your trip from Bhubaneswar helps you make the most of weather and festivals.

• November–February (Winter): Pleasant, dry weather. Best for Munnar tea hills, Thekkady wildlife, houseboats in Alleppey/Kumarakom, and beaches at Kovalam/Varkala.
• March–May (Summer): Warm and humid on the coast; cooler in the hills. Ideal for hill-station stays (Munnar, Wayanad) and shorter backwater cruises.
• June–September (Monsoon): Lush landscapes and dramatic waterfalls. Great for Ayurvedic therapies, misty hill walks, Athirappilly falls, and photography. Expect rain spells and occasional travel delays in highlands.
• Festival Highlights: Thrissur Pooram (Apr–May), Onam (Aug–Sep), Theyyam (Nov–Apr in North Kerala), Kochi-Muziris Biennale (Dec–Apr, biennial). Book transport and stays well in advance during festivals.

How to Reach Kerala from Bhubaneswar

By Air (Fastest)

• Primary Kerala Gateways: Kochi (COK), Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), Kozhikode (CCJ), Kannur (CNN).
• Typical Routes from Bhubaneswar (BBI): One-stop via Bengaluru (BLR), Chennai (MAA), or Hyderabad (HYD); occasional seasonal/direct options may appear.
• Approx Door-to-Door Durations: 4.5–7 hours including a layover; add 1–3 hours for airport transfers depending on your Kerala arrival city and first-night destination.

By Train

• Key Trains: Bhubaneswar–Ernakulam/Thiruvananthapuram/Kozhikode services (check availability on IRCTC). Travel time typically 30–40 hours depending on route.
• Tip: Choose Ernakulam Jn. (ERS) for Kochi/backwaters circuits; Thiruvananthapuram Central (TVC) for Kovalam/Varkala; Kozhikode (CLT) for Malabar/Wayanad connections.

By Road

• Distance: Approximately 1,800–2,000 km from Bhubaneswar to Central Kerala (via NH16–NH544/66). Driving time 30–36 hours (multi-day journey).
• Best for: Overlanders or travelers combining stops along the East/West coasts; otherwise, fly into Kerala and use a local cab/coach.

Smart Entry Points

• Backwaters + Hills: Arrive Kochi (COK).
• Beach + Capital Heritage: Arrive Thiruvananthapuram (TRV).
• North Kerala + Wayanad/Malabar: Arrive Kozhikode (CCJ) or Kannur (CNN).

Top Places to Cover

• Kochi (Fort Kochi, Mattancherry): Colonial streets, Chinese fishing nets, Jewish Synagogue, Kathakali/Kalaripayattu shows.
• Munnar: Tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park (Nilgiri tahr), Kolukkumalai sunrise jeep, Top Station viewpoints.
• Thekkady (Periyar): Periyar Lake boat safari, spice plantations, bamboo rafting, evening cultural shows.
• Alleppey & Kumarakom: Backwater cruises, village canals, houseboats, canoe rides, birdlife.
• Kovalam & Varkala: Crescent beaches, lighthouse views, surfing, cliffside cafes (Varkala).
• Thiruvananthapuram: Padmanabhaswamy Temple (dress code), Napier Museum, Kuthiramalika Palace.
• Athirappilly & Vazhachal: Kerala’s iconic waterfalls near Kochi and Thrissur.
• Wayanad: Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar, wildlife sanctuaries, treks, coffee estates.
• Marari: Serene beach retreat near Alleppey.
• Guruvayur: Renowned Krishna temple and cultural heritage.
• Kozhikode (Calicut): Malabar cuisine, Kappad Beach, Beypore.
• Bekal: Coastal fort vistas and tranquil beaches in North Kerala.

Suggested Itineraries (3–8 Days)

3 Days: Kochi & Backwaters Taster

• Day 1: Arrive Kochi; Fort Kochi walking tour; evening performance.
• Day 2: Alleppey/Kumarakom day cruise or overnight houseboat.
• Day 3: Athirappilly waterfalls (time-permitting) and depart.
• Ideal from Bhubaneswar: Fly BBI–COK with one stop; compact weekend escape.

4 Days: Munnar Tea Hills Break

• Day 1: Arrive Kochi; drive to Munnar (4–5 hrs).
• Day 2: Eravikulam NP, Tea Museum, tea garden walks.
• Day 3: Kolukkumalai sunrise jeep, Top Station; leisure.
• Day 4: Return to Kochi; shopping/harbor cruise; depart.
• Reaching: BBI–COK flight; private cab to Munnar.

5 Days: Hills + Backwaters Classic

• Day 1–2: Munnar sightseeing.
• Day 3: Thekkady spice tour; optional Periyar boat safari.
• Day 4: Alleppey houseboat (lunch–dinner–breakfast onboard).
• Day 5: Kochi city tour; depart.
• Reaching: BBI–COK; smooth loop Kochi–Munnar–Thekkady–Alleppey–Kochi.

6 Days: Beaches to Backwaters via Capital

• Day 1: Arrive TRV; Kovalam beach sunset.
• Day 2: Trivandrum city tour; Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
• Day 3: Varkala cliffs, cafes, beach time.
• Day 4: Drive to Alleppey; village canoe/sunset.
• Day 5: Houseboat or lakeside resort in Kumarakom.
• Day 6: Depart from Kochi or TRV depending on flight.
• Reaching: BBI–TRV in; COK/TRV out for best connections.

7 Days: Kerala Highlights Circuit

• Day 1–2: Kochi + Munnar arrival and sightseeing.
• Day 3: Thekkady wildlife and spice plantations.
• Day 4: Houseboat cruise in Alleppey.
• Day 5: Marari beach leisure.
• Day 6: Trivandrum/Kovalam transfer and beach time.
• Day 7: Temple visit, shopping; depart TRV.
• Reaching: BBI–COK in; TRV out to minimize backtracking.

8 Days: North Kerala & Wayanad

• Day 1: Arrive Kozhikode; Malabar cuisine trail.
• Day 2–3: Wayanad caves, waterfalls, wildlife; coffee estate stay.
• Day 4: Kannur forts and Theyyam (seasonal).
• Day 5–6: Bekal fort and beach relaxation.
• Day 7: Back to Kozhikode; local markets.
• Day 8: Depart CCJ.
• Reaching: BBI–CCJ or BBI–COK with onward train/cab to North Kerala.

What’s Included vs Excluded

Typically Included

• Accommodation with breakfast (CP) at chosen category hotels/resorts.
• Private AC cab with professional driver for transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary (toll, parking, driver allowance).
• Houseboat stay with onboard meals (for itineraries featuring Alleppey/Kumarakom).
• Applicable intercity transfers within Kerala plan.
• Assistance with check-ins, activity suggestions, and local guidance.

Typically Excluded

• Flights/train tickets between Bhubaneswar and Kerala (can be added on request).
• Lunch/dinner unless specified (e.g., houseboat includes meals).
• Entry tickets, safaris, rides (jeep/boat), and guides not mentioned in inclusions.
• Personal expenses, laundry, tips, extra activities not in the plan.
• Festival/event special arrangements unless pre-confirmed.

Local Transport Rules & Extras

• Seat belts are mandatory; helmets compulsory for two-wheelers. Speed cameras are common on highways.
• Houseboats: Check-in typically ~12–1 pm; cruising pauses by sunset; overnight at dock; check-out ~9 am. Quiet hours apply in villages.
• Temple dress codes: Modest attire; in some temples (e.g., Padmanabhaswamy, Guruvayur), men may need dhoti (no shirts), women saree/salwar. Footwear not allowed inside sanctums.
• Plastic restrictions in many forest/hill zones; use refillable bottles and carry back all waste.
• Drones: Require permissions; restricted near wildlife areas and heritage sites.
• Self-drive rentals: Carry original driving license; follow parking norms in Fort Kochi, Munnar town, and beach zones.
• Intercity options: Private cabs, reliable KSRTC buses, and trains connect major hubs; book early around festivals/long weekends.

Connectivity, Safety & Travel Tips

• Mobile & Data: Strong coverage in cities (Jio/Airtel/Vi); patchy in deep forests and high-altitude routes. Prepaid SIMs available at airports with ID.
• Payments: UPI and cards widely accepted; carry some cash in hills/villages.
• Health: Stay hydrated; motion-sickness pills for ghat roads; leech socks in monsoon treks; choose licensed Ayurveda centers.
• Beach & Water Safety: Heed lifeguard flags; watch rip currents (Varkala/Kovalam); life jackets on boats.
• Monsoon Caution: Landslide/road closure advisories can affect Munnar/Wayanad; keep buffer time.
• Power & Plugs: 230V; sockets typically Type C/D/M. Carry a universal adapter and power bank.
• Emergency: 112 (all-in-one), 100 (police), 108 (medical/ambulance), 1091 (women’s helpline).

Permits & ID Requirements

• Hotel Check-in: Carry original government-issued photo ID for all adults (Aadhaar/Passport/Driving License). Provide child age proof if asked.
• Forests & Parks: Limited daily entries at Eravikulam, Periyar, Wayanad; book official slots early, carry ID at gates.
• Temple Visits: Some sanctums restrict non-Hindus; follow local rules and dress codes.
• Drones/Photography: Special permits may be required in protected zones and heritage sites.
• Self-Drive: Valid driving license; foreigners should carry passport and international driving permit as applicable.

What to Pack (Season-wise)

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Light layers, a light jacket for Munnar/Wayanad nights, closed shoes for plantations, sunscreen, hat.
• Summer (Mar–May): Breathable cottons/linens, sun cap, sunglasses, electrolyte sachets, sandals, swimwear for beaches/pools.
• Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Quick-dry clothes, rain jacket/poncho, waterproof footwear, backpack cover, leech socks for treks.
• Essentials: Personal meds, mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, travel adapter, modest wear for temples, small daypack.

Food to Try & Shopping

Must-Try Kerala Dishes

• Traditional Sadhya (banana leaf feast) with payasam (dessert).
• Appam with stew, puttu with kadala curry, Kerala porotta with curry.
• Seafood specialties: Meen (fish) pollichathu, prawn roast, karimeen delicacies in backwaters.
• Malabar favorites: Thalassery biryani, pathiri (rice bread), kallummakkaya (mussels) fry.

Shopping Picks

• Tea and spices from Munnar/Thekkady; authentic pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, clove.
• Banana chips, halwa (Kozhikode), cashews.
• Coir mats, handloom kasavu sarees and mundu, Nettur boxes, Aranmula mirrors (heritage craft).
• Ayurvedic wellness products from reputed brands/centers.

Tip: Buy from government emporiums or reputed cooperatives for authenticity; request bills for high-value crafts.

Approx Travel Times

From Bhubaneswar to Kerala

• Flight BBI–COK/TRV/CCJ: 3.5–5 hours in air with one stop; 4.5–7 hours door-to-door.
• Train BBS–ERS/TVC/CLT: 30–40 hours, depending on service/route.
• Road: 30–36 hours driving, typically split over 2–3 days.

Within Kerala (by road, normal traffic)

• Kochi–Munnar: 4–5 hours (130 km).
• Munnar–Thekkady: 3–4 hours (90–110 km).
• Thekkady–Alleppey: 4–5 hours (140–160 km).
• Kochi–Alleppey/Kumarakom: 1.5–2 hours (55–70 km).
• Alleppey–Kovalam: 4–5 hours (160–180 km).
• Kochi–Athirappilly: 2–2.5 hours (75–85 km).
• Kozhikode–Wayanad (Kalpetta): 3–4 hours (85–110 km).

Booking Tips for Bhubaneswar Travellers

• Choose the right arrival airport: COK for Munnar/Thekkady/Alleppey; TRV for Kovalam/Varkala; CCJ/CNN for Wayanad/Malabar.
• Split arrivals/departures (open-jaw): Fly into Kochi and out of Trivandrum (or vice versa) to avoid backtracking on 6–8 day plans.
• Houseboat specifics: Opt for private 1BR–4BR boats for families/couples; confirm AC hours and cruise route; book early for weekends and festivals.
• Driver–guide value: A dedicated cab with local driver enhances flexibility on hill roads and scenic stops.
• Activity windows: Eravikulam NP is often closed during calving (around Feb–Mar); check dates. Periyar boat tickets are limited—pre-book slots.
• Season timing: For winter dates, lock flights and stays early due to high demand. Monsoon deals often include value-adds; hills are scenic with mist.
• Name matching: Ensure passenger names on flights/trains and hotel bookings match your IDs.
• IRCTC seats: Book trains well ahead if you prefer overnight rail into Kerala; keep a buffer day in case of delays.
• Special interests: Birders should target Kumarakom/Thattekad; wellness seekers plan 3–7 day Ayurveda programs during monsoon.
• Local experiences: Add spice plantation tour, village canoe, cultural show in Fort Kochi or Thekkady for deeper immersion.

Ready-Made Package Ideas

1) Romantic Backwaters & Tea Hills (5 Days)

• Ideal For: Couples and honeymooners; Nov–Feb and Jun–Sep are especially scenic.
• Route: Kochi – Munnar – Alleppey – Kochi.
• Day-wise:
  • Day 1: Kochi arrival, sunset harbor cruise.
  • Day 2: Drive to Munnar; tea gardens, Tea Museum.
  • Day 3: Eravikulam NP; evening private candlelight dinner (on request).
  • Day 4: Alleppey private houseboat with onboard meals.
  • Day 5: Kochi heritage lanes and departure.
• Highlights: Private houseboat, tea estate walks, cozy hill stays.
• Inclusions: Stays with breakfast, private AC cab, houseboat with meals, sightseeing as per plan.
• Exclusions: Flights/train, entrance tickets, personal expenses.
• Reaching from Bhubaneswar: Fly BBI–COK via BLR/MAA/HYD.

2) Family Kerala Easy Pace (6 Days)

• Route: Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Kumarakom – Kochi.
• Day-wise:
  • Day 1–2: Munnar viewpoints, short tea walks, soft trek (optional).
  • Day 3: Thekkady spice plantation tour; evening cultural show.
  • Day 4: Periyar boating/bamboo rafting; drive to Kumarakom.
  • Day 5: Vembanad lakeside resort; canoe village visit.
  • Day 6: Kochi shopping and depart.
• Highlights: Kid-friendly experiences, wildlife, lakeside leisure.
• Inclusions/Exclusions: As per section “What’s Included vs Excluded.”
• Reaching from Bhubaneswar: BBI–COK; private cab for the loop.

3) Beaches & Capital Heritage (5 Days)

• Route: Thiruvananthapuram – Kovalam – Varkala – Thiruvananthapuram.
• Day-wise:
  • Day 1: TRV arrival; Kovalam lighthouse beach.
  • Day 2: Trivandrum city tour; temple, museum, palace.
  • Day 3: Varkala cliff beach; yoga/surf lesson (optional).
  • Day 4: Back to Kovalam; Ayurvedic massage/relax.
  • Day 5: Souvenir shopping; depart TRV.
• Highlights: Iconic beaches, heritage, wellness add-ons.
• Inclusions: Stays with breakfast, private transfers, sightseeing as per plan.
• Reaching from Bhubaneswar: BBI–TRV flight via BLR/MAA.

4) North Kerala & Wayanad Explorer (7 Days)

• Route: Kozhikode – Wayanad – Kannur – Bekal – Kozhikode.
• Day-wise:
  • Day 1: Kozhikode culinary trail and beach sunset.
  • Day 2–3: Wayanad caves, dam, wildlife safari.
  • Day 4–5: Kannur forts, Theyyam (seasonal), Bekal fort & beach.
  • Day 6: Leisure by the Arabian Sea.
  • Day 7: Return to Kozhikode; depart.
• Highlights: Malabar culture, Theyyam rituals, coffee and coastal stays.
• Inclusions/Exclusions: Refer to standard list; add guided safari on request.
• Reaching from Bhubaneswar: BBI–CCJ (Kozhikode) flight via BLR.

5) Kerala Grand Circuit (8 Days)

• Route: Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Marari – Thiruvananthapuram/Kovalam.
• Day-wise:
  • Day 1–2: Kochi & Munnar highlights.
  • Day 3: Thekkady forests, spice tour.
  • Day 4: Alleppey houseboat.
  • Day 5: Marari beach stay.
  • Day 6–7: Kovalam beaches + Trivandrum heritage.
  • Day 8: Departure from TRV.
• Highlights: Full-spectrum Kerala—hills, wildlife, backwaters, beaches, and heritage.
• Inclusions: Hotels with breakfast, private cab, houseboat meals, planned sightseeing.
• Reaching from Bhubaneswar: Fly into COK; fly out of TRV for efficiency.

Documents & Insurance

• IDs: Carry original photo IDs for all travelers (Aadhaar/Passport/Driving License). Keep digital copies as backup.
• For Minors: School ID/birth certificate if requested; authorization letter if traveling without one parent/guardian.
• Insurance: Recommended for medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and baggage issues—especially in monsoon or if trekking.
• Vehicle Papers (if self-driving): Registration, insurance, PUC, and valid driving license.
• International Travelers: Valid passport, visa/e-Visa; carry copies of bio/visa pages and local contact details.

FAQs