Lucknow to Kerala Tour Packages

Best Time to Visit Kerala from Lucknow

Kerala is a year-round destination with distinct experiences by season:

• October–February (Peak sightseeing): Pleasant, dry weather for hills (Munnar, Wayanad), backwaters (Alleppey, Kumarakom) and beaches (Kovalam, Varkala). Ideal for first-time visitors from Lucknow.
• March–May (Summer): Warm and humid on the coast; hills remain comfortable. Great for tea-garden walks, wildlife safaris at Thekkady, and waterfalls with good flow early summer.
• June–September (Monsoon): Lush landscapes, dramatic skies, fewer crowds. Superb for Ayurveda therapies and photography. Expect intermittent heavy showers; keep flexible plans. Onam festivities usually in Aug/Sept add cultural charm.

Festival windows (Onam, Christmas–New Year, local temple festivals) are vibrant but busy—secure flights and stays early.

How to Reach Kerala from Lucknow

By Air (Fastest)

• Primary Kerala gateways: Kochi (COK), Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), Kozhikode (CCJ), Kannur (CNN).
• From Lucknow (LKO): Frequent 1-stop connections via Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, or Hyderabad to COK/TRV/CCJ.
• Tip: Choose arrival airport near your first halt—COK for Munnar/Thekkady/Alleppey; TRV for Kovalam/Varkala; CCJ/CNN for Wayanad/North Kerala.

By Train

• Long-haul trains connect Lucknow to Ernakulam Jn, Thiruvananthapuram Central, Kochuveli, and Kozhikode, often with limited direct options and 2-night journeys.
• Common route changes: Bhopal/Nagpur, Chennai, Mumbai, Bengaluru. Check IRCTC for latest schedules and waitlist trends.
• Reserve well in advance for peak season and opt for 2A/3A for comfort.

By Road

• Approx 2,500–2,700 km via NH 44. Requires multi-day drive with night halts. Practical only for road-trip enthusiasts.

Arrival Logistics

• Pre-book a private cab for hill/backwater circuits or use reliable app cabs in cities.
• Houseboat boarding points: Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom—arrive by 12–1 pm for smooth check-in.

Top Places to Cover

• Kochi (Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, Chinese Fishing Nets, Kerala Kathakali shows)
• Munnar (Tea gardens, Eravikulam NP, Top Station, waterfalls)
• Thekkady (Periyar Tiger Reserve boat safari, spice plantations, bamboo rafting)
• Alleppey & Kumarakom (Backwaters, houseboats, canoe rides, village life)
• Kovalam & Varkala (Sunset beaches, lighthouses, surf-friendly bays)
• Wayanad (Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar, Soochipara Falls, plantations)
• Athirappilly & Vazhachal (Iconic waterfalls near Kochi)
• Marari & Cherai (Quiet beaches close to Kochi/Alleppey)
• Kozhikode & Bekal (Malabar cuisine, Bekal Fort, serene coastline)
• Thrissur (Cultural hub, temples, festivals)

Suggested Itineraries (3–8 Days)

3 Days: Kochi + Backwaters

• Day 1: Arrive Kochi; Fort Kochi heritage walk, sunset at Chinese Nets.
• Day 2: Transfer to Alleppey; houseboat day-cruise or overnight; village canoe in the evening.
• Day 3: Return to Kochi; spice/handicraft shopping; depart.
• From Lucknow: Fly LKO–COK (1-stop); keep return post-2 pm if disembarking houseboat same day.

4 Days: Munnar + Backwaters

• Day 1: Kochi to Munnar (4–5 hrs); tea gardens, Attukad Falls.
• Day 2: Eravikulam NP, Top Station, Tea Museum.
• Day 3: Munnar to Alleppey/Kumarakom; backwater cruise.
• Day 4: Kochi city highlights; fly out.

5 Days: Munnar, Thekkady & Alleppey

• Day 1–2: Munnar sightseeing.
• Day 3: To Thekkady (3–4 hrs); boat safari, spice plantation tour, Kalaripayattu show.
• Day 4: To Alleppey (4 hrs); houseboat or lakeside resort.
• Day 5: Kochi departure.

6 Days: Signature South Kerala

• Day 1: Kochi; Fort Kochi & Kathakali.
• Day 2–3: Munnar.
• Day 4: Thekkady.
• Day 5: Alleppey/Kumarakom.
• Day 6: Kochi or continue to Kovalam (if adding beach nights).

7 Days: Wayanad + Kochi/Backwaters

• Day 1: Fly to Kozhikode (CCJ) or Kannur (CNN); transfer to Wayanad.
• Day 2–3: Wayanad sights and soft treks.
• Day 4: Drive/fly to Kochi.
• Day 5–6: Munnar or Alleppey.
• Day 7: Depart Kochi.

8 Days: Coast, Hills & Wildlife

• Day 1–2: Kochi + Athirappilly Falls.
• Day 3–4: Munnar.
• Day 5: Thekkady.
• Day 6: Alleppey houseboat.
• Day 7–8: Kovalam/Varkala; depart from TRV.
• From Lucknow: Open-jaw flights LKO–COK in, TRV–LKO out save time.

What’s Included vs Excluded

Common Inclusions

• Accommodation with daily breakfast (houseboats include meals as per plan).
• Private AC vehicle for transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary.
• Driver allowance, tolls, parking.
• Pickup/drop from airport/railway station.

Common Exclusions

• Flights/train tickets from Lucknow unless specifically added.
• Monuments/park entry tickets, safaris, boating unless noted.
• Lunches, dinners (except on houseboats or if specified), personal expenses.
• Early check-in/late check-out, optional experiences, tips.
• Travel insurance and medical expenses.

Local Transport Rules & Extras

• Seatbelts mandatory; helmets for two-wheelers.
• Hill-road speeds are controlled; plan buffer time for Munnar/Wayanad ghats.
• Houseboats typically board 12–1 pm and cruise till evening; quiet hours at night; disembark by 9 am.
• Alcohol sale is regulated; carry valid ID for bars. Consumption on houseboats depends on operator policy.
• Forest/wildlife activities have fixed slots and daily caps—book early.
• UPI and cards widely accepted; carry some cash for village purchases and tips.

Connectivity, Safety & Travel Tips

• Mobile networks: Jio/Airtel strong in cities; patchy in deep valleys/forests.
• Internet: Most hotels/boats offer Wi‑Fi; speeds vary in backwaters.
• Monsoon safety: Wear non-slip footwear, carry rain gear, and keep flexible plans.
• Sea safety: Observe red flags; strong currents at certain beaches.
• Wildlife: Maintain distance; dawn/late afternoon are best for sightings.
• Language: Malayalam local; English and Hindi work well in tourist zones.
• Cashless: UPI widespread; keep small notes for local ferries and snacks.

Permits & ID Requirements

• Carry a government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar/Passport/Driving License). One ID often needed at hotel and houseboat check-in.
• Wildlife sanctuaries/trekking areas issue separate entry tickets; carry soft copies of IDs.
• Drone flying requires prior permission where applicable; many parks are no-fly zones.
• Temple dress codes may apply; modest attire recommended.

What to Pack (Season-wise)

October–February

• Light layers for hills, full-sleeve for evenings, comfortable walking shoes.
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+.

March–May

• Breathable cottons/linens, reusable water bottle, electrolyte sachets.
• Anti-chafing and anti-tan care; insect repellent.

June–September

• Quick-dry clothes, compact umbrella/rain jacket, waterproof phone pouch.
• Anti-slip sandals, light towel, zip-locks for documents.

Always

• Basic medicines, motion-sickness tabs for ghats, ID copies, power bank, universal charger.
• Temple-appropriate attire; swimwear/cover-ups for beaches and pools.

Food to Try & Shopping

Must-Try Dishes

• Appam with stew, Puttu–Kadala curry, Kerala Sadya (banana-leaf feast), Malabar biryani.
• Meen (fish) curry/pollichathu, prawns roast, Kerala porotta with curries.
• Vegetarian delights: Avial, Thoran, Olan; desserts: Ada Pradhaman, Palada Payasam.
• Filter coffee, fresh toddy (where permitted), cardamom tea.

Shopping Picks

• Spices (pepper, cardamom, cloves), tea/coffee, banana chips, cashews.
• Kasavu sarees, coir products, Nettipattam décor, Aranmula mirrors (authenticity matters).
• Where: Fort Kochi/MG Road (Kochi), Thekkady spice markets, Govt emporia like “Kairali”.

Approx Travel Times

Lucknow to Kerala (typical)

• Flights: LKO–COK 4.5–6.5 hrs (1-stop); LKO–TRV 5–7.5 hrs; LKO–CCJ 5–8 hrs (depending on layover).
• Trains: 42–48 hrs with limited direct options; check IRCTC for current routes.
• Road: 40–45 hrs driving time (excluding halts).

Within Kerala

• Kochi–Munnar: 4–5 hrs; Munnar–Thekkady: 3–4 hrs; Thekkady–Alleppey: 4 hrs.
• Alleppey–Kovalam: 4.5–5 hrs; Kovalam–Thiruvananthapuram: 30–45 mins.
• Kochi–Athirappilly: 2–2.5 hrs; Kochi–Kumarakom: 1.5–2 hrs.
• Kochi–Wayanad: 8–9 hrs; Kozhikode–Wayanad: 3–4 hrs.

Note: Monsoon and holiday traffic can extend travel times—keep buffers.

Booking Tips for Lucknow Travellers

• Flights: Compare LKO–COK vs LKO–TRV based on your route. Open-jaw (into COK, out of TRV) reduces backtracking.
• Houseboats: Choose Deluxe/Premium/ Luxury by comfort expectations; confirm AC hours, meal plan, and private vs shared boat.
• Hill stays: Book early for weekends and holidays; ask for rooms with views and easy parking access.
• Activity slots: Pre-book Periyar boat safari, Kathakali/Kalaripayattu shows, and Wayanad treks to secure preferred times.
• Transfers: Private cab for hills/backwaters is most efficient for families and senior travellers.
• Timing: Aim for midday arrivals for houseboats; morning arrivals help cover Kochi/Athirappilly before heading to Munnar.
• Flex days: Keep one flexible day in monsoon for weather-dependent sights.
• Payments: Use UPI/card; keep small cash for local ferries and tips.

Ready-Made Package Ideas

1) Classic Kerala from Kochi (5D/4N)

Highlights: Fort Kochi heritage, tea gardens of Munnar, Periyar wildlife touch, backwater cruise.

Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive Kochi; Fort Kochi & Mattancherry; Kathakali show.
• Day 2: Kochi–Munnar; Tea Museum, Photo Point, evening at leisure.
• Day 3: Munnar full day—Eravikulam NP, Top Station, waterfalls.
• Day 4: Munnar–Alleppey; houseboat check-in by noon; village canals and sunset.
• Day 5: Disembark; Kochi airport drop.

Inclusions: Breakfasts; private AC cab; houseboat with meals; driver allowances; toll/parking.

Exclusions: Flights/train; entry tickets; lunches/dinners (except houseboat); optional shows; insurance.

Reaching Kerala from Lucknow: Fly LKO–COK (1-stop). Return from COK after 2 pm on Day 5.

2) Backwaters & Beach from Thiruvananthapuram (4D/3N)

Highlights: Alleppey backwaters, Kovalam beach sunsets, lighthouse view, Padmanabhaswamy Temple (outer visit as per dress code).

Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive TRV; visit city highlights; transfer to Kovalam.
• Day 2: Kovalam—beach time, lighthouse, evening at Hawa/Light House Beach.
• Day 3: Kovalam–Alleppey; houseboat or lakeside resort stay.
• Day 4: Return to TRV; depart.

Inclusions: Stays with breakfast; private transfers; houseboat meals (if chosen).

Exclusions: Flights/train; entries; personal expenses; optional spa/ayurveda.

Reaching Kerala from Lucknow: Fly LKO–TRV via major hubs; consider arriving TRV and departing COK if extending to Kochi.

3) Highlands & Wilderness (6D/5N)

Highlights: Munnar vistas, Thekkady wildlife vibe, bamboo rafting/spice gardens, serene Kumarakom.

Itinerary:

• Day 1–2: Kochi–Munnar; tea valleys and park visit.
• Day 3: Munnar–Thekkady; evening Kalaripayattu or Kathakali.
• Day 4: Periyar lake boat safari; spice plantation; transfer to Kumarakom.
• Day 5: Vembanad Lake cruise/canoe; birdwatching.
• Day 6: Kochi drop.

Inclusions: Breakfasts; AC cab; guided plantation tour; chosen activities as added.

Exclusions: Long safaris/boat tickets unless specified; meals other than breakfast; flights/train.

Reaching Kerala from Lucknow: LKO–COK flight; return from COK.

4) North Kerala Explorer (5D/4N)

Highlights: Wayanad caves and waterfalls, Kozhikode heritage and Malabar cuisine, Bekal Fort add-on option.

Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive CCJ/CNN; transfer to Wayanad.
• Day 2: Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Falls, plantation walk.
• Day 3: Banasura Sagar, Pookode Lake; evening folk arts (subject to schedule).
• Day 4: Drive to Kozhikode; beach promenade, Mittai Theruvu (SM Street).
• Day 5: Kozhikode airport drop; optional Bekal overnight with 1-day extension.

Inclusions: Stays with breakfast; transfers; sightseeing as per plan.

Exclusions: Entries; meals not mentioned; personal expenses; rail/airfare.

Reaching Kerala from Lucknow: LKO–CCJ/CNN via Bengaluru/Hyderabad; open-jaw possible if adding Bekal via Kannur (CNN).

Documents & Insurance

• Carry original government ID and a few photocopies/soft scans (Aadhaar/Passport/Driving License).
• Houseboat and hotel check-ins require all adult IDs; couples/families should keep all IDs handy.
• Travel insurance recommended: medical cover, trip interruption, baggage loss, and weather delays.
• Emergency contacts: local police (100), medical helpline (108). Save hotel and driver numbers.
• Keep prescriptions for any regular medication; pack an extra set in cabin baggage.

FAQs