IRCTC Kerala Tour Packages

IRCTC offers the option of IRCTC Kerala tour packages that cater to a wide range of travel preferences while highlighting the spectacular beauty and rich culture of this fascinating region. Each program is designed to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience, from the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey to Munnar's thriving tea estates. Travellers can indulge in houseboat cruises, explore hill stations, and visit iconic landmarks such as historic forts, temples, and national parks.

The culinary delights of Kerala, known for its spicy and aromatic dishes, also form a vital part of the journey, allowing visitors to savour the authentic local cuisine. Guided tours ensure that guests receive insightful information about the local history and traditions, while the carefully curated itineraries offer seamless transportation, comfortable accommodation, and opportunities for adventure activities like trekking and wildlife safaris. 

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous exploration, IRCTC Kerala tour packages promise an unforgettable experience in God's Own Country. Embrace the warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes as you immerse yourself in the essence of Kerala.

Best places to visit in Kerala

Alleppey (Alappuzha): Famous for its picturesque backwaters and houseboat cruises, Alleppey is a must-visit. The serene waters bordered by lush green coconut groves make it a perfect getaway.

Munnar: Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool climate. Popular attractions include the Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, and Anamudi Peak.

Kochi (Cochin): A vibrant city that blends history and modernity, Kochi is famous for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and the historic Fort Kochi area. Don’t miss the local seafood and Kathakali performances.

Kumarakom: Situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is renowned for its tranquil backwaters, bird sanctuary, and houseboat experiences. It's ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Wayanad: Famous for its lush greenery and wildlife, Wayanad offers trekking opportunities, waterfalls, and spice plantations. Popular spots include Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Thekkady: Home to the Periyar National Park, Thekkady is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. You can enjoy jeep safaris, and boat rides, and explore spice plantations in this scenic area.

Varkala: A coastal town known for its stunning cliffs and beaches, Varkala offers a more laid-back atmosphere. The Papanasam Beach and the Varkala Sivagiri Mutt are popular attractions.

Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram): The capital city of Kerala features beautiful beaches like Kovalam, the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and museums showcasing Kerala’s heritage.

Bekal: Known for the Bekal Fort, which offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, this coastal town is a great place to relax and explore the nearby beaches.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A haven for migratory birds, this sanctuary is perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the backwaters. 

Top Things To Do In Kerala

Backwater Cruise: Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom on a houseboat. The lush landscapes and tranquil waters are a must-see.

Visit Munnar: Explore the picturesque hill station of Munnar, famous for its tea plantations, cool climate, and scenic views. Don’t miss the Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri Tahr.

Ayurveda Treatments: Kerala is known for its ancient Ayurvedic practices. Enjoy soothing therapies at one of the many wellness resorts throughout the state.

Explore Fort Kochi: Delve into the historical charm of Fort Kochi, with its colonial architecture, art galleries, and iconic Chinese fishing nets.

Wildlife Sanctuaries: Visit Periyar National Park, where you can go on a boat ride or a nature walk and spot elephants, particularly in their natural habitat.

Beaches: Relax on the stunning beaches of Varkala and Kovalam. Varkala’s cliffs and Kovalam’s beach resorts are perfect for unwinding.

Local Cuisine: Taste the delicious Keralite cuisine, famous for its seafood, spicy curries, and traditional dishes like dosa, idli, and payasam.

Attend a Kathakali Performance: Experience the traditional dance-drama form of Kathakali, known for its elaborate costumes and storytelling.

Visit Wayanad: Explore the lush greenery of Wayanad, with its waterfalls, caves, and scenic viewpoints. The Edakkal Caves are particularly famous for their prehistoric carvings.

Cultural Festivals: If you can, attend one of Kerala’s vibrant festivals, such as Onam or Vishu, to experience the local customs and traditions.

Famous food in Kerala

Sadhya: A traditional feast served on a banana leaf, Sadhya consists of a variety of vegetarian dishes, including rice, curries, pickles, and payasam (a sweet dessert). It is typically enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.

Appam: A soft and fluffy rice pancake, Appam is often paired with Stew, which is a flavorful coconut milk-based curry made with vegetables or meat.

Fish Curry: Kerala is famous for its spicy fish curry, made with fresh catch from the Arabian Sea, coconut milk, and an array of spices. Variations include the famous Meen Moilly (a mild fish curry) and Meen Curry (hot and spicy).

Karimeen Pollichathu: This is a grilled fish dish where the Karimeen (Pearl Spot fish) is marinated with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfection.

Puttu and Kadala: For breakfast, Puttu, a steamed rice cake, is usually served with Kadala (black chickpea curry). This combination is wholesome and nutritious.

Dosa and Sambar: While dosa is popular across India, the version served in Kerala often comes with coconut chutney and sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew) that features local flavours.

Chicken and Mutton Biriyani: Kerala’s biriyani, especially from Malabar, is fragrant and flavorful, cooked with spices and layered with fragrant rice, meat, and herbs.

Thoran: A dry vegetable dish made with finely chopped vegetables, grated coconut, and spices, Thoran is a staple side dish in many meals.

Payasam: This traditional dessert made from rice or vermicelli cooked in milk and sweetened with jaggery is a must-try. Variants include Ada Pradhaman and Pal Payasam.

Kappa and Fish Curry: Kappa (tapioca) is a popular staple in Kerala, often served with spicy fish curry for a fulfilling meal.

Best Time To Visit Kerala

The best time to visit Kerala is from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it best for exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of the state. 

Here's a breakdown of what to expect during different times of the year:

October to March (Winter): 

This is considered the peak tourist season. The temperatures range from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F) and the humidity is relatively low, creating a comfortable environment for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It’s a great time for backwater cruises, hill station explorations, and enjoying the beaches. 

April to June (Summer): 

The summer months can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F). While this is still a good time to visit the hill stations like Munnar, it’s advisable to avoid coastal areas during the peak afternoon heat. 

July to September (Monsoon): 

The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, especially in July and August. This season is characterized by lush greenery and rejuvenated landscapes, making it a beautiful time to experience Kerala’s natural beauty. However, the rain can disrupt travel plans, so it’s best for those who enjoy the romance of rain and quieter tourist spots. It's also a time for Ayurveda treatments as the weather is considered perfect for detoxifying therapies. 

How To Reach Kerala

Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is well-connected by various modes of transportation, making it easily accessible for travellers.

By Air:

Airports**: Kerala has four international airports:

Trivandrum International Airport (Thiruvananthapuram)** - serves as the main gateway to South Kerala.

Cochin International Airport (Kochi)** - the largest and busiest airport in Kerala, located in Nedumbassery.

Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode)** - caters to Northern Kerala.

Kannur International Airport - serves the northernmost districts of the state.

Domestic Flights**: Several domestic airlines operate flights to Kerala from major cities in India.

By Train:

Rail Network: Kerala is well-connected by a network of trains that link major cities such as Trivandrum, Kochi, Kozhikode, and Thrissur.

Railway Stations: Some of the prominent railway stations include Trivandrum Central, Ernakulam Junction, and Kozhikode, allowing easy access to different parts of the state.

By Road:

Bus Services: Kerala has an extensive network of state-run and private buses that connect it to neighbouring states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

National Highways: Major highways such as NH 66 and NH 544 run through the state, making road travel convenient.

Car Rentals: Renting a car is also a great option for exploring the scenic beauty of Kerala at your own pace.

By Water:

Ferry Services: Kerala’s backwaters provide opportunities for reaching certain destinations via ferries. Services run between various towns and islands like Alleppey and Kumarakom.

Local Transportation:

Once in Kerala, you can use a variety of local transport options such as:

Auto-rickshaws

Taxis and cab services (like Uber and Ola)

Local buses

Bicycle rentals in certain areas