Plan Your Perfect Trip with PickupTrails!
Kerala, fondly called God’s Own Country, is one of India’s most loved travel destinations, famous for its backwaters, beaches, hill stations, and wildlife sanctuaries. For first-time visitors, planning a trip to Kerala can feel overwhelming with so many places and experiences to choose from.
This Kerala travel guide by PickupTrails, widely recognized as the best travel company in Kerala, will help you plan your journey with accurate information, itineraries, budget tips, and must-visit attractions.
Why Visit Kerala?
Kerala is a complete holiday destination offering:
Scenic Landscapes: Munnar’s tea gardens, Alleppey’s backwaters, Kovalam’s beaches.
Unique Culture: Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and authentic Kerala cuisine.
Adventure & Wildlife: Periyar Tiger Reserve, Wayanad treks, bamboo rafting.
Ayurveda & Wellness: World-renowned Ayurvedic spas and yoga retreats.
PickupTrails – the best travel company in Kerala – ensures your first trip covers the best experiences within your time and budget.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
October to March (Peak Season): Pleasant weather; ideal for sightseeing and beaches.
June to September (Monsoon): Lush greenery, fewer crowds; perfect for Ayurvedic treatments.
April to May (Summer): Best for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.
(PickupTrails offers packages year-round with seasonal discounts.)
Top Destinations for First-Time Visitors
1. Kochi (Cochin)
Gateway to Kerala; heritage sites like Chinese fishing nets, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace.
Great for art cafés, spice markets, and cultural festivals.
2. Munnar
Hill station known for tea plantations, Eravikulam National Park, and Anamudi Peak.
Perfect for honeymooners and nature lovers.
3. Thekkady
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – boat safaris, bamboo rafting, spice plantations.
Eco-tourism and jungle lodges available.
4. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Famous for houseboat cruises on Kerala’s backwaters.
Authentic village life experiences and paddy fields.
5. Kovalam & Varkala
Beaches with golden sands, Ayurvedic spas, and cliffside cafes.
Ideal for relaxation and yoga retreats.
6. Wayanad (Optional Extension)
Waterfalls, caves, and treehouse stays; perfect for road trips from Bangalore.
Ideal Duration for a Kerala Trip
3–4 days: Kochi + Munnar OR Alleppey
5–6 days: Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey
7–8 days: Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kovalam
9+ days: Add Wayanad or North Kerala (Bekal, Kannur) for an extended trip
How to Reach Kerala
By Air: Airports at Kochi, Trivandrum, Kozhikode, Kannur.
By Train: Well-connected to major Indian cities including Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai.
By Road: NH 44 and NH 66 for scenic drives from nearby states.
(PickupTrails arranges private cabs, flights, and train bookings as part of its packages.)
Where to Stay in Kerala
Luxury Stays: 5-star resorts, premium houseboats, boutique hotels.
Mid-range Stays: 3-star hotels, budget resorts, serviced apartments.
Eco Stays: Treehouses, homestays, and jungle lodges for authentic local experiences.
PickupTrails – the best travel company in Kerala – handpicks accommodations suited to your budget and travel style.
Must-Do Experiences for First-Time Visitors
Houseboat cruise in Alleppey – Overnight stay on backwaters with Kerala meals.
Tea plantation tour in Munnar – Visit tea factories and scenic viewpoints.
Spice plantation visit in Thekkady – Learn about Kerala’s aromatic spices.
Kathakali and Kalaripayattu shows – Witness Kerala’s classical dance and martial arts.
Ayurvedic massage therapy – Relax and rejuvenate naturally.
Sunset at Kovalam Beach – Iconic lighthouse views.
Sample 6-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Day 1 – Arrival in Kochi
Fort Kochi sightseeing, Mattancherry Palace, evening Kathakali show.
Day 2 – Kochi to Munnar
Visit waterfalls en route; check into a hill resort.
Day 3 – Munnar Exploration
Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, Echo Point.
Day 4 – Munnar to Thekkady
Spice plantation tour, Periyar boat safari.
Day 5 – Thekkady to Alleppey
Houseboat cruise on backwaters with traditional meals.
Day 6 – Alleppey to Kovalam / Departure
Beach relaxation; proceed to Trivandrum for departure.
Budget for a First-Time Kerala Trip
PickupTrails offers packages for every budget:
Budget Trip (5–6 days): ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 per person
Mid-range Trip: ₹25,000 – ₹35,000 per person
Luxury Trip: ₹45,000+ per person (premium resorts, private cabs, exclusive experiences)
Why PickupTrails is the Best Travel Company in Kerala
Local expertise in Kerala’s top and hidden destinations.
Customizable itineraries for honeymooners, families, and groups.
Handpicked houseboats, eco-resorts, and boutique hotels.
Transparent pricing with 24/7 travel assistance.
Recognized by travelers as the best travel company in Kerala for personalized service.
Tips for First-Time Kerala Travelers
Carry light cotton clothes and sunscreen (tropical climate).
Book houseboats and resorts 2–3 months in advance (especially Dec–Jan).
Respect local culture – remove footwear in temples, dress modestly.
Combine backwaters, hills, and beaches for a complete Kerala experience.
Plan Your First Kerala Trip with PickupTrails
From houseboats in Alleppey to tea gardens in Munnar and beaches in Kovalam, Kerala promises an unforgettable experience. Let PickupTrails – the best travel company in Kerala – plan your journey with customized packages, seamless logistics, and authentic local experiences.
[Contact PickupTrails for Kerala Tour Packages] 9207348054, 8547903187