12 Must-Know Tips Before Booking Kerala Tour Packages for Family

Kerala is that destination that offers something for everyone. The lush tea estates of Munnar, the calm backwater regions of Alleppey, the splendid beaches of Kovalam, or the dense forests of Wayanad - South India's own Kerala is an experience in itself. There's a reason why Kerala family tour packages are a hot travel destination in India each year.

But do you know what? When it comes to Kerala tour packages for family, it is not just like a bare-backpacking trip. You have to consider the needs of your children, the health of your aging parents, your budget, the best time to visit and so on and on. So before you select the package and click "Book Now", here are some important tips to save you time, money and stress.

1. Know What's in a Kerala Tour Package for Families

Firstly, check the package details. Families often expect a Kerala tour package to be "all-inclusive" but this is not true. The typical Kerala family tour packages include:

• Accommodation (hotel or houseboat)

• Transfers and transportation

• Breakfast or select meals

• Tourist sites as specified

But they tend to not include park fees, adventure activities, lunch and dinners, tips and miscellaneous expenses. Make sure you get an inclusions and exclusions list from your travel operator before you book. This will avoid unnecessary costs.

Also Read: Best Honeymoon Destinations in Kerala

2. Pick the Right Length of Trip

One of the biggest mistakes a family may make is to pack more into a trip. Kerala is a place of many wonders and dashing from one place to the next will leave everyone - particularly young kids and the elderly - weary.

Here is a quick guide:

• 3-4 Days: Cochin + Alleppey (short break)

• 5-6 days: Cochin + Munnar + Allepey

• 7-8 Days: Cochin + Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kovalam

• 10+ Days: The complete circuit of Kerala including Wayanad and Kannur

Families can enjoy visiting a range of places in 6-7 days, which is ideal. And having extra days allows you to savour your time.

3. Choose the Right Time to visit Kerala

The timing of your trip for Kerala tour packages for family is crucial. There are three seasons in Kerala:

• October to February - Ideal Time

No doubt this is the best season. It's cool but not cold. Hardly any rain falls and all attractions are open. Also, this is perfect for families with children having winter breaks from school.

• March to May - Summer

It's warm, especially on the coast. But hill stations such as Munnar and Wayanad are cool. It's the ideal time for families seeking relief from hot weather during their summer holidays.

• June to September - Monsoons

The monsoon brings to Kerala a magical green view. It's also the most affordable time. However, some backwater routes and treks may be inaccessible because of the rain. This period shouldn't be booked by those with small kids or elderly people, unless you specifically want to do a monsoon trek.

4. Decide on your Budget before You Book

A well-planned budget is the key to a hassle-free family trip. Kerala tour packages for families come in a plethora of price ranges - ranging from the most affordable below ₹15,000 per person to the highest-end above ₹60,000 per person.

Before shopping for a package, determine:

• Total family budget (not per person)

• Accommodation type (budget, 3 star, 4 star, luxury)

• Level of comfort (economy, comfort, or luxury)

• Number of people (children may get different pricing)

Finally, make sure to leave a buffer of at least 10-15% of the total trip value for unexpected costs, local souvenirs or activities.

5. Check the Accommodation Standards for Families

Not all hotels in Kerala tour packages are family-oriented. Therefore, always check:

• Room size: A double room might not be large enough for a family of four.

• Additional bed or connecting rooms: Double check!

• Children's facilities: Consider swimming pools, playrooms and child-friendly surroundings.

• Elderly travellers: When elderly parents travel, look for a floor accessible by lift or have ground-floor rooms.

Houseboats are very popular with families in Alleppey. But check the types of houseboats (1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, deluxe) and meal arrangements and safety arrangements (if you have young children travelling with you!).

6. Learn About the Places You Will Visit

Too often, families book Kerala tour packages for family without doing research on what their destinations have to offer. As a result, they may feel disillusioned or be ill-prepared.

Here's a family travel guide:

• Kochi (Cochin): Fort Kochi's Chinese fishing nets, Mattancherry Dutch Palace, Kerala Folklore Museum and Kathakali shows.

• Munnar: Tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park and Top Station view. Children love the wide open green fields.

• Alappuzha (Alleppey): Houseboat rides in the coconut trees. A must for families.

• Thekkady: Boating in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Spice plantation tours. Wonderful for "nature" families.

• Kovalam: Beach time, lighthouses and Ayurveda massages. A good choice as the last leg.

7. Inquire about Activities for Kids and Safety

While inquiring about Kerala tour packages for family, be sure to ask the tour operator about child-friendly activities. It may not always mention this but it's important.

Popular family interesting activities are as follows:

• Playing with elephants at Guruvayur or Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary

• Bamboo rafting at Athirappilly forests

• Cooking lessons for foodie children

• Performing arts like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu martial arts

• Boat and canoe rides in backwaters

Alongside the activities, ask them about the safety measures such as use of life jackets in boats, pool barriers for kids in resorts and all transport vehicles having seat belts for safety.

8. Book a Tour Package from At Least 3-5 Operators

Don't just book any Kerala holiday or tour package. Rather, narrow down at least three to five travel agencies and check:

• What's included in the price

• Staff quality and ratings for the hotels listed

• Type of transfer vehicle (AC, comfortable, clean)

• Guide language and its availability

• Results on Google or TripAdvisor

• Cancellation and refund policy

Check reviews of the last few weeks by families to see what to expect. And ensure that the tour operator is licensed with the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) or the Ministry of Tourism.

9. Know what to do in Case of Cancellation

We all know life can be unpredictable, with flights being late, health sickness, and other personal issues. So, make sure to check the cancellation policy of Kerala tour packages before making any advance payment.

Questions to ask:

• How much do you get back if you cancel 30 days in advance?

• What happens in the case of cancellations from the operator?

• Is travel insurance included or an option?

Travel insurance should be purchased for family travel. This will cover accidents, cancellation, lost luggage and more. Not purchasing it to save a few dollars can be painful.

10. Travelling to Kerala with the kids?

Planning well is not enough - pack well too. Kerala has a tropical climate, so be aware of:

• Cotton clothes for seaside locations

• Warm jacket or sweater for Munnar and Wayanad

• Walking shoes for touring and treks

• Sun creams and mosquito repellent

• Medicines for children and First Aid kit

• Water bottles to keep you refreshed

And a printed copy of your travel plan, hotel information and emergency phone numbers You may need to rely on an old-fashioned map in some remote areas.

11. Book in Advance During Peak Season

If you are travelling from October to February, make sure to book your family Kerala tour packages at least 2-3 months in advance. During the peak months, there is an increase in tourism and the tightly booked houseboats and hill retreats.

You may also get early-bird discount offers of 10-20%. Likewise, book your travel arrangements in writing or via e-mail so you have a record in case of conflict.

12. Respect Local Culture and Customs

Kerala is a state steeped in culture and tradition. Involving your children in the learning of respect in culture is an enriching part of the family trip.

• Wear culturally-appropriate attire to temples and churches

• Take off shoes in temples and churches

• Always ask permission to take pictures

• Refrain from loud noises in natural and animal areas

Being a mindful traveller not only enhances your travel experience - it's good for the community you're visiting too.

Conclusion

There is more to a trip to Kerala than eyeing a colourful package offered by a tour operator. Budget planning, deciding the right travel date, confirmation of lodging and fine details such as reading the terms and conditions are important while planning a trip for your family.

For a stress-free Kerala family tour, contact Paradise Yatra, which offers carefully planned Kerala family travel packages - customised to your family's size, budget and preferences. Thanks to knowledgeable guides, quality accommodations, and no hidden costs, Paradise Yatra ensures you every little thing is in place so your family can live the dream.

Plan well, enjoy your trip, and have fun in Kerala with your family and friends.