Kerala Tour Packages from Chennai
Best Time to Visit Kerala from Chennai
Kerala is a year-round destination, and your ideal window depends on what you want to experience:
- November to February (Cool & Pleasant): Best overall weather for hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad), backwaters (Alleppey/Kumarakom), and beaches (Kovalam/Varkala). Comfortable for seniors and families with kids.
- March to May (Warm Summer): Coastal areas get humid; hill stations remain cool and green. Great for tea garden walks, waterfalls (with decent flow), and wildlife in Thekkady before monsoon sets in.
- June to September (Monsoon Magic): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies traditionally recommended during rains. Expect intermittent showers; carry rain gear. Ideal for those who love dramatic scenery and cozy indoor stays.
- October (Post-Monsoon Transition): Clearer skies return, rivers full, waterfalls strong—excellent for photography and outdoor sightseeing.
Festivals to consider: Thrissur Pooram (Apr–May), Onam (Aug–Sep), Theyyam (Dec–Apr in North Kerala)—each adds unique cultural color to your trip.
How to Reach Kerala from Chennai
- By Air: Nonstop flights from Chennai (MAA) to Kochi (COK), Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), and Kozhikode (CCJ). Flight time is about 1 hr 10–30 min. Kochi is ideal for Munnar/Thekkady/Backwaters; Thiruvananthapuram suits Kovalam/Varkala/Poovar; Kozhikode suits Wayanad/North Kerala.
- By Train: Daily trains from Chennai Central/Egmore to Ernakulam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Thrissur, and Thiruvananthapuram. Overnight options are comfortable; book early for preferred classes (2A/3A/SL).
- By Bus: TNSTC/KSRTC and private Volvo/sleeper services to Kochi, Thrissur, Alappuzha, and Thiruvananthapuram. Overnight journey, usually 10–14 hours depending on route and traffic.
- Self-Drive/Rental Car: Scenic routes via NH32–NH44–NH544 to Kochi, or NH32–NH45–NH66 for Thiruvananthapuram. Plan breaks, carry toll cash/FASTag, and start early to avoid city congestion.
Tip: For short trips (3–4 days), fly in and out. For week-long loops, trains in + flights out can balance comfort and time.
Top Places to Cover
- Kochi (Cochin): Fort Kochi’s colonial streets, Chinese fishing nets, Mattancherry Palace, spice markets, lively cafes.
- Munnar: Endless tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park, Top Station views, tea museum, cool climate.
- Thekkady (Periyar): Wildlife boat cruise, bamboo rafting, spice plantations, nature walks, Kathakali/Kalaripayattu shows.
- Alleppey & Kumarakom: Houseboat cruises, village canals, birdlife, serene backwaters.
- Kovalam & Varkala: Golden beaches, cliffside cafes, water sports (seasonal), lighthouse views, Ayurveda.
- Wayanad: Forests, waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, homestays—best for nature and adventure.
- Athirappilly & Vazhachal: Iconic waterfalls amidst rainforest; great as a day trip from Kochi.
- Thrissur: Cultural heartland, temples, festivals, traditional arts.
- Marari: Quiet beach near Alleppey; perfect for relaxation after a houseboat stay.
Suggested Itineraries (3–8 Days)
3 Days: Kochi + Alleppey Backwaters
Day 1: Arrive Kochi; Fort Kochi and Mattancherry sightseeing; sunset at Marine Drive.
Day 2: Transfer to Alleppey; day cruise or overnight houseboat through canals, paddy fields, and village life.
Day 3: Morning back to Kochi; shopping/spice markets; depart.
Highlights: Heritage walk, houseboat experience, seafood.
Start from Chennai: Fly MAA–COK (about 1 hr 20 min) or overnight train to Ernakulam/Alappuzha.
4 Days: Munnar Tea Country + Thekkady Wildlife
Day 1: Arrive Kochi; drive to Munnar via waterfalls and tea vistas.
Day 2: Munnar full-day: Eravikulam NP, tea museum, Top Station.
Day 3: Drive to Thekkady; spice plantation tour; cultural show.
Day 4: Periyar boat safari/nature walk; depart via Kochi.
Highlights: Tea gardens, wildlife, spices, cooler climate.
Start from Chennai: Fly to Kochi; private cab to hills.
5 Days: Classic Kochi–Munnar–Alleppey
Day 1: Kochi city/heritage tour.
Day 2–3: Munnar sightseeing and leisure.
Day 4: Alleppey houseboat or backwater resort.
Day 5: Return to Kochi and fly/train out.
Highlights: Balanced hills + backwaters with heritage flavor.
Start from Chennai: Morning flight to Kochi for maximum time.
6 Days: Munnar–Thekkady–Kumarakom + Kochi
Day 1–2: Munnar tea landscapes, Eravikulam, viewpoints.
Day 3: Thekkady; boat safari; spice shopping.
Day 4: Kumarakom backwaters; canoeing/bird sanctuary.
Day 5: Kochi old town and harbor cruise.
Day 6: Departure.
Highlights: Birding, village life, heritage sunsets.
Start from Chennai: Fly to Kochi; return from Kochi.
7 Days: Backwaters + Hills + Beaches
Day 1: Kochi arrival and sightseeing.
Day 2–3: Munnar exploration and leisure.
Day 4: Alleppey houseboat cruise.
Day 5–6: Kovalam beach and Thiruvananthapuram city tour (Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum).
Day 7: Departure from Thiruvananthapuram.
Highlights: Kerala’s signature trio—hills, backwaters, beaches.
Start from Chennai: Fly into Kochi; fly out of Thiruvananthapuram.
8 Days: Wayanad + Central Kerala Circuit
Day 1: Kozhikode arrival; drive to Wayanad.
Day 2–3: Wayanad caves, waterfalls, Chembra Peak/tea estates.
Day 4: Drive to Thrissur; cultural tour; Guruvayur (optional).
Day 5: Athirappilly waterfalls; head to Kochi.
Day 6: Munnar scenic drive; tea experiences.
Day 7: Alleppey/Kumarakom backwaters.
Day 8: Fly out of Kochi.
Highlights: North and Central Kerala blend with nature and culture.
Start from Chennai: Fly to Kozhikode; return from Kochi for a smooth loop.
What’s Included vs Excluded
Common Inclusions
- Accommodation in hotels/resorts/houseboats as per itinerary and category chosen.
- Daily breakfast at hotels; all meals on overnight houseboats (fixed menu).
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver for transfers and sightseeing, including tolls and parking.
- Driver allowance and inter-state permits where applicable.
- Sightseeing as per itinerary (time-bound) and assistance during check-ins.
Common Exclusions
- Flights/trains between Chennai and Kerala unless specifically added.
- Entry tickets, safari fees, camera permits, activities, and guide charges not specified.
- Meals not mentioned, room service, minibar, and personal expenses.
- Early check-in/late check-out, peak-season supplements, and festival surcharges if applicable.
- Travel insurance and medical expenses.
Local Transport Rules & Extras
- Seatbelts & Helmets: Mandatory. Ensure all passengers belt up; helmets for two-wheelers.
- Speed Limits: Typically 60–80 km/h on highways; slower on ghats/backroads. Watch for speed cameras.
- Alcohol & Driving: Zero tolerance for drink-and-drive. Plan a designated driver.
- Houseboats: Standard check-in ~12–1 pm; cruising till evening; stationary at night; check-out by ~9 am. AC hours vary by boat/category.
- Forest/Protected Areas: Follow entry timing, keep noise low, avoid plastic littering. Some treks require local permits/guides.
- Parking & Tolls: Abundant across tourist circuits; FASTag works widely.
- Last-Mile Access: In heritage zones and some backwater islands, walking/auto-rickshaws may be required.
Connectivity, Safety & Travel Tips
- Mobile/Data: Jio, Airtel, and BSNL have good coverage in cities and highways; expect patchy signal in deep forests, remote backwaters, and some hill sections.
- Payments: UPI and cards work widely; keep some cash for rural shops, ferries, and small eateries.
- Monsoon Safety: Use non-slip footwear; carry rain jacket; watch for leeches on forest trails; avoid unsafe cliff edges or flooded paths.
- Health: Pack motion-sickness tablets for ghat roads; stay hydrated; use sunscreen at beaches; carry personal medicines with prescriptions.
- Women & Family Travel: Tourist zones are generally safe. Prefer licensed transport and well-reviewed stays.
- Language: Malayalam is local; English/Hindi widely understood in tourist areas; basic Tamil works in many markets.
Permits & ID Requirements
- Indian Nationals: Carry government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License) for hotel check-in and houseboats.
- Foreign Nationals: Passport, valid Indian visa/e-visa, and copies of ID for hotel registration. Keep soft copies handy.
- Special Zones: Certain wildlife treks, boating, or heritage monuments may need local permits/tickets—available on-site or via official portals.
- Temple Visits: Dress modestly; some temples restrict non-Hindus; ID may be requested at select shrines.
- Drones: Recreational drone use requires adherence to DGCA rules and local permissions; avoid flying near wildlife and crowds.
What to Pack (Season-wise)
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Light layers for hills, shawl/jacket for evenings, closed shoes, sunscreen, hat, and casual beachwear.
- Summer (Mar–May): Breathable cottons/linens, sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, reusable water bottle, sandals, and light scarf.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Quick-dry clothes, rain jacket/poncho, umbrella, anti-slip footwear, waterproof phone pouch, insect repellent, and a small towel.
- All Seasons: Personal medicines, motion-sickness tablets, power bank, universal charging adapter, copies of IDs, and modest attire for temples.
Food to Try & Shopping
Must-Try Dishes
- Appam with vegetable or chicken stew
- Puttu with kadala (black chickpea curry)
- Malabar parotta with spicy curries
- Karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish, coastal specialty)
- Kerala Sadya (traditional vegetarian feast on a banana leaf)
- Malabar biryani, beef ularthiyathu (where available), prawn roast
- Banana chips, halwa (Kozhikode), toddy shop fare (local rustic cuisine)
Shopping Picks
- Spices, tea, and coffee from local markets (Broadway, Kochi; Connemara Market, Thiruvananthapuram).
- Kasavu sarees and handlooms (Kuthampully, Thrissur; SM Street, Kozhikode).
- Coir crafts, wooden souvenirs, nettipattam (caparison) replicas, Kathakali masks.
- Ayurvedic wellness products from reputable brands/clinics.
Tip: Ask for bills and authenticity certificates for premium spices, handlooms, and Ayurveda products.
Approx Travel Times
- Chennai to Kochi by flight: ~1 hr 20 min (plus airport time)
- Chennai to Thiruvananthapuram by flight: ~1 hr 15–30 min
- Chennai to Kochi by overnight train: ~12–14 hrs (service dependent)
- Kochi Airport to Munnar: ~4–4.5 hrs
- Munnar to Thekkady: ~3–3.5 hrs
- Thekkady to Alleppey/Kumarakom: ~4 hrs
- Alleppey to Kochi city/airport: ~1.5–2.5 hrs (traffic dependent)
- Kochi to Athirappilly: ~2–2.5 hrs
- Kochi to Varkala: ~4.5–5.5 hrs; Kochi to Kovalam: ~5–6 hrs
- Thiruvananthapuram to Kovalam: ~30–45 min
- Kozhikode to Wayanad (Kalpetta): ~3–4 hrs
Booking Tips for Chennai Travellers
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- Match route to season: Hills in summer, backwaters and Ayurveda in monsoon, beaches and festivals in winter.
- Fly in/out smart: For Kochi–Munnar–Alleppey, use Kochi (COK). For Kovalam/Varkala, arrive/depart Thiruvananthapuram (TRV). For Wayanad, consider Kozhikode (CCJ).
- Reserve early for weekends/festivals: Houseboats and hill resorts fill up fast around long weekends and Onam/New Year.
- Clarify houseboat details: AC timing, meal plan, route, and private vs shared before confirming.
- Right vehicle choice: Sedan for 1–3 pax; SUV/MPV for 4–6; tempo traveller for groups—especially on ghat roads.
- Add down-time: Keep buffer hours between intercity drives and flights/trains to avoid rush.
- Activity slots: Pre-book Eravikulam NP, Periyar boat safari, and Kathakali shows in peak seasons.
- Payment & vouchers: Keep digital copies of confirmations, IDs, and permits accessible on your phone.
For tailored Chennai–Kerala trips, flexible sightseeing, and dependable on-ground support, coordinate your plan through etourismkerala.com.
Ready-Made Package Ideas
Backwaters & Forts Escape (4D/3N)
Route: Kochi (1N) – Alleppey Houseboat/Resort (1N) – Kochi (1N)
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive Kochi; Fort Kochi heritage walk, Chinese nets, Jew Town, Kathakali show.
- Day 2: Drive to Alleppey; board houseboat for cruise, village stopovers; overnight onboard or at a backwater resort.
- Day 3: Morning disembark; return to Kochi; harbor cruise or Lulu/market shopping.
- Day 4: Departure from Kochi.
Highlights: Heritage streets, sunset harbor, tranquil canals, homely Kerala meals.
Inclusions: Hotels/houseboat, breakfast (all meals on houseboat), private AC car, sightseeing as per plan.
Exclusions: Air/rail between Chennai and Kerala, monument entries, optional activities, guide charges, personal expenses.
Start from Chennai: Morning flight to Kochi or overnight train to Ernakulam; private pickup arranged.
Munnar Mist & Wildlife (5D/4N)
Route: Munnar (2N) – Thekkady (2N)
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Kochi to Munnar via Valara/Cheeyappara waterfalls; evening leisure.
- Day 2: Eravikulam NP, tea museum, Photo Point, Top Station.
- Day 3: Munnar to Thekkady; spice garden; Kalari/Kathakali show at night.
- Day 4: Periyar boat safari or bamboo rafting; optional jeep ride.
- Day 5: Drive back to Kochi and depart.
Highlights: Tea valleys, Nilgiri tahr, spice aromas, wildlife reservoir views.
Inclusions: Breakfasts, private transport, select activities assistance, driver allowances.
Exclusions: Safari tickets, camera fees, lunch/dinner except where specified.
Start from Chennai: Fly to Kochi; road transfer to Munnar.
Classic Kerala Triangle (6D/5N)
Route: Kochi (1N) – Munnar (2N) – Alleppey/Kumarakom (1N) – Kochi (1N)
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Kochi city tour.
- Day 2–3: Munnar major sights + leisure time for plantation strolls.
- Day 4: Backwaters stay (houseboat or lakeside resort).
- Day 5: Return to Kochi; evening harbor cruise/markets.
- Day 6: Departure.
Highlights: Balanced city, hills, and backwaters with easy logistics.
Inclusions: Accommodation with breakfast, AC vehicle, tolls/parking, assistance.
Exclusions: Flights/trains, entry tickets, personal expenses, optional add-ons.
Start from Chennai: Arrive/depart Kochi for shortest transfers.
Romance & Beaches (7D/6N)
Route: Munnar (2N) – Alleppey Houseboat (1N) – Kovalam (2N) – Thiruvananthapuram (1N)
Itinerary:
- Day 1–2: Munnar viewpoints, tea trails, leisurely evenings.
- Day 3: Houseboat with candlelight-style dinner setting (on request).
- Day 4–5: Kovalam beach time; lighthouse; Ayurveda session (optional).
- Day 6: Thiruvananthapuram city and heritage; shopping.
- Day 7: Departure from TRV.
Highlights: Cozy hill stays, private backwater moments, relaxing beach sunsets.
Inclusions: Stays with breakfast, AC transport, houseboat meals, basic assistance.
Exclusions: Spa/Ayurveda sessions, water sports, museum/temple entries.
Start from Chennai: Fly to Kochi and return from Thiruvananthapuram.
Western Ghats & Wayanad Loop (8D/7N)
Route: Kozhikode (1N) – Wayanad (2N) – Thrissur (1N) – Athirappilly (day) – Munnar (2N) – Kochi (1N)
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive Kozhikode; evening on the beach/SM Street food trail.
- Day 2–3: Wayanad caves, waterfalls, viewpoint treks.
- Day 4: Drive to Thrissur; cultural circuit, Guruvayur (optional).
- Day 5: Athirappilly waterfalls; continue to Kochi or overnight near the falls.
- Day 6–7: Munnar highlights and leisure.
- Day 8: Kochi markets and departure.
Highlights: North–Central Kerala diversity: forests, heritage, waterfalls, tea hills.
Inclusions: Breakfasts, private vehicle with driver, parking/tolls, on-ground support.
Exclusions: Long-ride meals, entries/activities not listed, personal purchases.
Start from Chennai: Fly to Kozhikode; fly back from Kochi.
Documents & Insurance
- Carry: Government photo ID for all adult guests; birth certificate/school ID for minors if available.
- Digital backups: Store scans of IDs, tickets, and vouchers on your phone and cloud.
- Travel Insurance: Choose a plan covering medical emergencies, baggage delay/loss, trip interruption, and adventure add-ons if doing treks/boating.
- Medical: Keep prescriptions for any controlled medicines; note allergies in a wallet card.
- Vehicle Documents (Self-drive): Valid license, RC, insurance, PUC, and FASTag; ensure inter-state permit if required.
FAQs
A: November to February offers the most pleasant weather overall. For lush green scenery and Ayurveda, June to September monsoon is rewarding.
A: A nonstop flight from Chennai to Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram is the quickest, taking roughly 1–1.5 hours of flying time.
A: Yes, with precautions. Expect showers and occasional delays. Wear non-slip footwear, carry rain gear, and follow local advisories on treks and waterfalls.
A: Many overnight houseboats offer AC during nighttime or full-time depending on the category. Confirm AC timings and meal plans before booking.
A: Absolutely. Kerala has excellent vegetarian options—Sadya, appam–stew, puttu–kadala—alongside a wide variety of non-vegetarian dishes.
A: Not mandatory for regular sightseeing. Guided walks are recommended for tea estates, nature trails, and certain forest activities for deeper insights and safety.
A: Tipping is discretionary. Many guests offer a modest tip to drivers, porters, and guides for good service; small change helps for daily assistance.
A: Yes. Choose shorter daily drives, select hotels with lifts/ground-floor rooms, and add rest days. Hills and backwaters are family-friendly with proper planning.
A: Yes. Start early, keep documents (DL/RC/insurance/PUC), ensure FASTag, and plan fuel/food stops. Mountain roads require confident hill driving skills.
A: Jio and Airtel are decent across towns and major backwaters; expect patchy coverage in remote canals, forests, and parts of high ranges.
A: It’s not ideal. Cruising hours end by evening; late arrivals reduce cruising time. If delayed, consider a backwater resort stay instead of the boat that night.
A: Yes, modest attire is expected. Some temples have specific rules (e.g., men without shirts in inner sanctums). Check local guidelines beforehand.
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