Kerala Homestay

Kerala Homestay

10 Days / 09 Nights

Staying in homestay accommodation is a great way to experience Kerala.

You’ll be staying mostly in large, ancestral family mansions on plantations and estates, with all the homely hospitality of being with friends but a lot of space to yourselves as well. We work only with families who we know are excellent hosts, who enjoy the company of visitors and whose sumptuous cooking will leave you wanting to stay much longer

Detailed Itineary

  • Day 1 : Cochin Arrival - Palakkad

    Arrive at Cochin airport where you will be met and introduced to your driver. If you arrive in the evening you can begin your trip with an overnight stay near Cochin airport (in a hotel, rather than a homestay) and proceed with the tour the next day. Depart for Palakkad and stay at Kandath Tharavad, the ancestral home of the Bhagwaldas family. After a traditional welcome by the host and a tour of the property, spend the remainder of the day relaxing or taking a walk around the nearby agriculture areas and villages. Overnight at Kandath Tharavad.

  • Day 2 : Palakkad

    Today’s options include bird-watching nearby, a full-day excursion to Parambikulam National Park, visiting the local village by bullock cart, a bicycle tour and more; overnight at Kandath Tharavad.

  • Day 3 : Palakkad

    Another day at this most bucolic location with further options including visiting the traditional potters and weavers colony, Ayurvedic massage treatment, cooking classes and more. But of course, if you just want to relax and enjoy the gentle pace of life here, that is absolutely fine! Overnight at Kandath Tharavad.

  • Day 4 : Palakkad - Cochin

    After breakfast leave Palakkad and drive to the lovely heritage area of Fort Cochin (not to be confused with Cochin/Ernakulam across the harbour which is an interesting but very busy modern Indian city). Your accommodation here is at Gramam Homestay, just 15km south of Fort Cochin itself, and alongside one of the myriad waterways of this region of Kerala. Overnight at Gramam Homestay.

  • Day 5 : Cochin

    Staying just outside of busy Fort Cochin will give you a completely different impression of this area. You’re still close enough for an easy day’s sightseeing covering all the normal places around Fort Cochin including the synagogue, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica and the Chinese Fishing Nets but before and after your time in the hub of the town you’ll feel that you’re a thousand miles away. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show including traditional Kerala art forms- Kathakali dance and Kalarippayattu martial arts. Overnight at Gramam Homestay.

  • Day 6 : Cochin - Kothamangalam

    After breakfast drive to another lovely homestays located in Kothamangalam, Mundakkal Homestay. On reaching Kothamangalam, check into the plantation homestay and relax. You will be shown around the plantations and served with delicious homely meals. Overnight stay at Mundakkal Homestay.

  • Day 7 : Kothamangalam - Pala

    Early morning visit to Thettakad bird sanctuary where around 270 species of migratory and local birds can be found. Your guide will attract these birds making different sound and explain each of them clearly to you. After completing the visit return back to the homestay and have a late breakfast. Then drive to Pala and on arrival, check into Nazarani Tharavad homestay. Later visit the vanilla farm and the rubber estate of the host to watch the tapping of rubber and processing of latex. You can also try your hand at fishing in the pond using traditional method. Overnight stay at Nazarani Tharavad Homestay.

  • Day 8 : Pala

    Day around Pala with visits to local artisans- traditional Kavani (cloth) weavers, bell metal workers and potters. Later visit Poonjar Palace, millennium old temples, churches, and enjoy a cooking class back at your homestay, followed by yet another delicious meal. Overnight at Nazarani Tharavad.

  • Day 9 : Pala - Alleppey

    Depart at your leisure and head to Alleppey, where you’ll stay at a traditional home right next to the backwaters. Places of interest around here include churches and temples, but it’s also an excellent area for walking, cycling or kayaking. Overnight at Thevercad Homestay.

  • Day 10 : Alleppey - Cochin Departure

    Further time around the backwaters before driving up to Cochin airport for your outbound flight, either heading home or to another part of India.

FAQ

Kerala homestay experiences are unique because they offer personalized hospitality, authentic local cuisine, and opportunities to connect with local families. Unlike hotels, homestays provide a more intimate and immersive experience of Kerala’s culture and lifestyle.

Yes, many Kerala homestays are child-friendly and provide a safe environment for families. Hosts often welcome children and may offer activities tailored to younger guests, ensuring a fun and educational experience.

Kerala homestays vary in comfort levels, but most provide cosy rooms, clean bathrooms, and essential amenities such as Wi-Fi and hot water. Some homestays may offer additional features like gardens, swimming pools, or access to local activities.

Absolutely! Staying in homestays in Kerala is generally very safe. Most homestays are run by families who prioritize guest safety and comfort. We take care to provide our guests with only the best and most reputable homestays.

Most Kerala homestay packages include meals, particularly breakfast and dinner, featuring local cuisine prepared by the host family. Some homestays also offer cooking classes, allowing guests to learn how to prepare traditional dishes.

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