India is an over-the-top experience for all the senses, bright colours, constant noise, strong flavours, heat and cold. The cycle routes provided a wonderful opportunity to explore a wide variety of landscapes and lifestyles — farmland, plantations, villages and small cities. We experienced the busyness of the traffic and the quiet of the beaches. Shibu was a wonderful guide who answered all our questions and explained the economic activities of the backwaters of Kerala. The challenges of this route include the heat and humidity combined with the long distances in the coastal section of the trip, and the demands of intense traffic conditions and poor roads on some days. The climb up Ooti is challenging, but accounts for only 90 minutes of one day. I used an e-bike for the first time on this trip and it would have been helpful except that it was so poorly fitted.
Kerala Holidays
Top 5 Experiences on our Kerala Holidays
Kerala Tours
You could spend a lifetime exploring the nuances that make each place – and each day – distinctly different from the last in India. Each is marked by its own food, festivals and traditions. And there’s an ever-changing landscape too. On our Kerala holidays and the languid south, you’ll find the pace much slower than in the frenetic north. Tranquil rural villages, deserted white-sand beaches and wildlife-rich rainforest make Kerala the perfect haven. Beautiful countryside, rolling plains and lush valleys are home to elephants, monkeys and other flora and fauna.
On Exodus’ Kerala tours you’ll have the opportunity to stay on a traditional houseboat and explore the sleepy backwaters. The barges are open on both sides, encouraging a natural breeze and allowing stunning views of both banks of the river. Throughout the journey watch local life pass by, and in the evenings visit villages to experience the cultural heritage first hand.
Cycling along the scenic coast of Kerala lets you witness the azure waters of the Arabian Sea, picturesque beaches and charming fishing villages, while the rural, rolling hills inland are strewn with lush spice and tea plantations, providing a sensory paradise with fragrant aromas and verdant tea leaves.
Immerse yourself in the local culture to gain a deeper understanding of Kerala’s deep traditions, from mesmerising dance performances to lip-smacking cuisine bursting with vibrant flavours. The warm hospitality of the locals adds a personal touch to your experience and makes you feel right at home in this tropical paradise.
Kerala Holidays
Nancy Arbogast Cycle Kerala & Tropical India
Trev Jones The Tropical SouthEvery single day was a new exciting experience. A fantastic insight to the culture and history of the region, made easy by an excellent well planned itinery.
jean almeida Cycle Kerala & Tropical IndiaI loved every minute of the trip it was exactly what I hoped for
When is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months of October to February. This period sees pleasant weather with mild temperatures and low humidity, making it perfect for exploring the serene backwaters and beautiful beaches that Kerala is most famous for. The post-monsoon season from September to November is also a great time to visit, as the landscape is vibrant and refreshed from the rains. Avoiding the summer months of March to May is advisable due to the high temperatures and humidity, which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.
What is Kerala’s cuisine like?
Keralan cuisine originates from the southern state of Kerala in India and is an exciting fusion of flavours that tantalises the taste buds. Known for its diverse range of dishes, the food here is characterised by the generous use of coconut, curry leaves and spices like black pepper, cardamom and cloves. One of the most popular dishes is the traditional fish curry made with fresh catch of the day, coconut milk and lots of aromatic spices. Another favourite is appam, a soft and fluffy pancake-like bread made from fermented rice batter.
FAQs on Kerala Tours
Kerala is known as ‘God’s Own Country’ and plays host to many incredible places. In Cochin, the historic port city, explore the beautiful colonial architecture and wander through vibrant local markets. Munnar is most famous for its tea plantations and captivates you with its mist-shrouded hills and lush landscapes. And if you’re a nature lover, head to Periyar National Park to discover the rich biodiversity and enjoy thrilling wildlife encounters with the likes of elephants, gaurs and colourful birds. Just across the border in Tamil Nadu, a trip to Madurai promises a memorable cultural experience with its bustling markets and ancient temples, including the ornately carved Sri Meenakshi Temple.
Kerala is a wonderful destination blessed with beautiful scenery, tranquil backwaters and stunning hill stations. You’ll find a wide a variety of enriching activities to do here, such as a houseboat cruise through the backwaters, savouring traditional Kerala cuisine prepared on board. Alternatively, explore the vibrant culture and history of Fort Kochi, home to ancient churches and striking street art, trek through the picturesque tea estates of Munnar or witness breathtaking views from one of the tropical beaches. For a spot of relaxation, immerse yourself in Ayurvedic treatments which rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.
Kerala’s backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, lakes, rivers and inlets that stretch along the coast. This picturesque region is known for its tranquility, natural beauty and unique ecosystem. The backwaters serve as a vital mode of transportation for locals, with traditional houseboats known as “kettuvallams” gliding through the waters. If you want to experience the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Kerala, it’s definitely worth exploring the backwaters on a houseboat. The region’s exotic birdlife, lush paddy fields and charming villages give you an insight into the nature and traditional way of life.
Kerala is a family-friendly destination with a diverse combination of natural beauty, rich culture and unique experiences. Home to meandering backwaters, fertile landscapes and exotic beaches, Kerala provides the perfect setting for families to explore and discover new places and culture. The state is also home to numerous attractions such as wildlife sanctuaries, tea plantations and traditional Kathakali performances, which families can enjoy together. It’s also a great destination for introducing children to different cuisine as the flavoursome food and spices cater to all kinds of palates.
Kerala offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Hiking through the Western Ghats provides you with magnificent views of tea plantations and waterfalls while cycling along the dramatic coastline lets you explore traditional fishing villages and heavenly beaches. If you’re looking for something with more of an adrenaline rush, why not try your hand at parasailing over the sparkling waters of the Arabian Sea? At many of Kerala’s beaches, there are plenty of water sports available, from sea kayaking to jet skiing.
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