Kerala Small Group Tours
Wondering about exploring Kerala with a small group? Sleeping on houseboats cruising backwaters, wandering Munnar's tea plantations, spotting tigers in Periyar, watching Kathakali dance. Kerala's called "God's Own Country" for good reason - it's gorgeous, relaxed and the food's mouthwatering. Small groups let you experience Kerala's culture properly whilst keeping things intimate and personal.
10 best Kerala small group tours
Compiled by
MelissaKerala travel expert at TourRadar
- Relaxing kerala tour ( Cochin Munnar Alleppy Cochin)
- South India Kerala Tour – 9 Days Backwaters, Tea Hills, Wildlife & Houseboat Experience
- Private Kerala Tour from Cochin to Kovalam: Backwaters, Hills & Beaches
- Magical Kerala with Mumbai and Goa
- Backwaters of Kerala - An authentic tour of Kerala
- Highlights of Kerala
- Complete South India Tour
- 7 Days Tour to Kerala
- Kerala at Glance - 06 Days Private Tour
- South India 16 Days Tour
Relaxing kerala tour ( Cochin Munnar Alleppy Cochin)
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The experience was simply breathtaking. From the moment we arrived in Cochin, we were welcomed with warm hospitality.”
Harolin, traveled in September
Groups of 8-12 visitors uncover Kerala's treasures together. The intimate size guarantees personal attention during Munnar tea plantation visits, relaxed houseboat experiences in Alleppey's backwaters, and immersive cultural shows at Kathakali centres.
Duration 4 days Destinations Munnar, Alleppey, Kochi (Cochin) Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type Group Operator Real viaggi india From $800
50% Off- US$400You save $400
South India Kerala Tour – 9 Days Backwaters, Tea Hills, Wildlife & Houseboat Experience
16 Reviews by TourRadar travelers
Groups of 1-5 people share Kerala's highlights, perfect for immersive experiences. Private guides lead tours at Eravikulam National Park, exclusive spice plantation visits in Thekkady, and intimate houseboat cruises through Alleppey's backwaters with fellow travelers averaging 32 years.
Duration 8 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Eravikulam National Park, Thekkady, Periyar National Park, Alleppey Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator Volunteering With India From $1,199
50% Off- US$600You save $600
Private Kerala Tour from Cochin to Kovalam: Backwaters, Hills & Beaches
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The itinerary was well planned, allowing us to comfortably cover all the major highlights.”
Ankit, traveled in December
Duration 8 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Periyar National Park, Alleppey, Kovalam Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, French, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator Brahmlaxmi Tours and Travel From $2,096
50% Off- US$1,048You save $1,048
Intimate groups allow for detailed exploration of Kerala's treasures, from Fort Kochi's historic sites to Munnar's tea plantations. Small numbers ensure personalized attention during houseboat cruises in Alleppey and wildlife viewing at Periyar Sanctuary.
Duration 11 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Periyar National Park, Alleppey, Mumbai, Goa Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator GeTS Holidays From $3,458
70% Off- US$1,037You save $2,421
Backwaters of Kerala - An authentic tour of Kerala
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This journey through Kerala offered a beautifully curated experience, blending nature, culture, and comfort.”
Oliver, traveled in October
Small groups of 2-8 companions share an immersive Kerala experience. Visitors enjoy exclusive access to Munnar's tea estates, private spice plantation tours in Periyar, and intimate houseboat cruises through Alleppey's backwaters with local guides.
Duration 7 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Periyar National Park, Alleppey, Kumarakom Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 20 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator MTA Destination Management Company From $1,444
30% Off- US$1,011You save $433
Highlights of Kerala
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“An excellent,varied itinerary, the highlights being the Houseboat and the Turtle beach. Overall excellent value for money.”
Peter, traveled in October
Groups of 2-10 people connect deeply while cruising Kumarakom's backwaters or observing wildlife at Periyar Sanctuary. Intimate numbers allow extended visits at each destination, from Munnar's tea estates to Marari's pristine beaches.
Duration 13 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Eravikulam National Park, Periyar National Park, Thekkady, Kumily, Kumarakom, Alleppey, Mararikulam Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Golden Triangle India Tours From $3,019
60% Off- US$1,208You save $1,811
Complete South India Tour
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The hotels were good quality with a well stocked buffet breakfast to get you started. Book this tour, you'll not be disappointed.”
John, traveled in January
Duration 24 days Destinations Mumbai, Elephanta Island, Goa, Anjuna, Hampi, Mysuru, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kochi (Cochin), Alleppey, VarkalaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Golden Triangle India Tours From $7,350
65% Off- US$2,573You save $4,778
7 Days Tour to Kerala
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The backwaters tour was a great experience. Definitely value for money.”
Natalie, traveled in March
Duration 7 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Periyar National Park, Thekkady, Alleppey, Thiruvananthapuram, Kanyakumari Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Golden Triangle India Tours From $2,082
65% Off- US$729You save $1,353
Duration 6 days Destinations Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Periyar National Park, Alleppey, Kumarakom Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish Group Size Max Group Size 12 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator SafeHands Travels From
65% Off- US$799
South India 16 Days Tour
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had a wonderful trip, we felt we were in good hands. The hotels were of a very good standard and all the inclusions were as advertised.”
Andrew, traveled in May
Duration 16 days Destinations Bangalore, Srirangapatna, Mysuru, Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park, Ooty, Munnar, Eravikulam National Park, Periyar National Park, KumilySee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Golden Triangle India Tours From $5,980
65% Off- US$2,093You save $3,887
Reviews of Small Group tours to Kerala
- Relaxing kerala tour ( Cochin Munnar Alleppy Cochin)
The pleasure of taking a relaxing Kerala tour, visiting the beautiful cities of Cochin, Munnar, Alleppey and returning to Cochin. It was a truly rejuvenating experience that left me feeling refreshed and renewed. The tour began in Cochin, a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage. I was amazed by the beautiful blend of old and new, as I explored the city's iconic landmarks such as the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church and the Mattancherry Palace. The streets were filled with vibrant colors, delicious aromas and friendly locals, making it a perfect introduction to Kerala. Next on the itinerary was Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. The scenic drive to Munnar was a treat in itself, with lush greenery, serene waterfalls and misty mountains. I stayed at a beautiful resort surrounded by tea plantations, which was the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The cool climate and tranquil atmosphere of Munnar were perfect for unwinding and taking in the breathtaking views. One of the highlights of the tour was the houseboat ride in Alleppey. Cruising along the backwaters, surrounded by coconut trees and traditional villages, was a truly enchanting experience. I also got to taste some delicious local cuisine cooked on board by the friendly staff. It was the perfect way to relax and soak in the beauty of Kerala. The tour ended back in Cochin, where I spent my last day exploring the city's markets and indulging in some shopping. I also had the opportunity to witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance, which was a mesmerizing experience. Overall, my relaxing Kerala tour was a perfect blend of culture, nature, and rejuvenation. The accommodations were comfortable, the food was delicious, and the people were warm and welcoming. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating holiday. I cannot wait to go back and explore more of this beautiful state.
- South India Kerala Tour – 9 Days Backwaters, Tea Hills, Wildlife & Houseboat Experience
Our South India 7-night tour was a dream come true. From the moment we were picked up at the airport, everything was perfectly organized. Our guide, Ashok, was exceptional, providing us with deep insights and ensuring we had a great time. The accommodations were luxurious, with excellent service and stunning views. We visited beautiful temples, serene backwaters, and vibrant markets. This tour exceeded our expectations in every way. Highly recommended!
- Highlights of Kerala
South India was amazing destination. Hotels were comfortable with good service, especially in Munnar, where the views were stunning. The local culture, especially in Thekkady and Kumarakom, felt authentic. Loved cruising the backwaters in Alleppey, very amazing. The beachside stay at Mararikulam was perfect for unwinding. Overall, a great trip to South India.
What our customers ask about Kerala Small Group Tours
What is the ideal group size for exploring Kerala's wildlife sanctuaries and backwaters?
Small groups of 6-8 travelers provide the most rewarding experience when visiting Kerala's natural attractions. These numbers work particularly well for quiet observation at places like Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and the peaceful backwaters of Alleppey. The limited size ensures better wildlife spotting at Eravikulam National Park where the rare Nilgiri Tahr roams and creates a quieter environment at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary for bird watching. A TourRadar traveler noted "the small group size made wildlife viewing much more intimate and allowed for better interaction with our naturalist guide at the spice plantations."
How does accommodation differ in small group tours versus larger tours in Kerala?
Boutique properties and heritage stays characterize the small group tour experience in Kerala. These include distinctive properties like the Elephant Court in Periyar and Lake Song Resort in Kumarakom. Traditional houseboats in Alleppey feature 2-3 bedrooms designed for intimate groups while properties like the Devonshire Green in Munnar focus on individualized attention. A TourRadar traveler remarked: "staying at smaller character-filled properties gave us a much more authentic experience of Kerala's hospitality."
What unique experiences are available specifically for small group tours in Kerala?
Small groups can access experiences that larger tours simply cannot manage. These include visits to family-run spice plantations in Periyar cooking classes in Fort Kochi homes and private tea tastings at the Munnar Tea Museum. Groups can get up close to the Chinese fishing nets with local fishermen and enjoy Kathakali performances in private settings. A TourRadar traveler noted: "our small group size allowed us to visit a local family's home in Kumarakom for a traditional Kerala meal something impossible with larger groups."
How does transportation work for small group tours in Kerala?
Transportation centers on nimble AC vehicles like Toyota Innovas that seat 4-6 people. These vehicles can navigate narrow village roads and access tea plantation paths that coaches cannot reach. Stops at places like Valara waterfalls or local markets become easy spontaneous additions. A TourRadar review states: "having a smaller vehicle meant we could explore hidden corners of Kerala's backwaters and stop at authentic local restaurants that larger groups simply couldn't access."
What is the typical duration of small group tours in Kerala?
Most small group itineraries span 6-8 days covering Kerala's essential experiences. The common schedule includes 2 nights exploring Munnar's tea regions 2 nights discovering Periyar's wildlife and 1-2 nights experiencing Alleppey's backwaters. Many tours conclude at the Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Resort in Kovalam. A TourRadar traveler shared: "our 7-day small group tour provided the perfect balance of activities and relaxation time."
How does dining work on small group tours in Kerala?
Small groups enjoy greater dining flexibility from home-cooked meals in local houses to special menus at places like the Radisson Blu Kochi. Groups can easily visit family restaurants and experience meals in traditional Syrian Christian homes. Local cuisine becomes more accessible with the ability to visit small authentic eateries. One TourRadar traveler noted: "our small group size allowed us to dine at family-run restaurants in Thekkady and learn about local spices directly from the chef."
What is the best season for small group tours in Kerala?
The period from October to March offers optimal conditions for Kerala's activities. These months bring clear weather for wildlife viewing at Periyar Tiger Reserve and comfortable temperatures for backwater cruises in Alleppey. Properties like Lake Song resort in Kumarakom see peak bird activity during this time. A TourRadar review confirms: "traveling in a small group during December allowed us to enjoy perfect weather while avoiding the crowds at popular spots like Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point."