South INDIA
🗓️27th September 2026
South India – Kerala
🗓️27th September 2026
- 11 Days
- Kochi - Kochi
- Open to All Ages
Join us on an unforgettable South India group tour, where vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and meaningful experiences come together. From the tranquil backwaters of Kerala to historic temples, bustling spice markets, and golden beaches, this small-group adventure is designed for curious travellers seeking a deeper connection with India.
Perfect for solo travellers and backpackers who want the freedom of independent travel without the stress of planning, our Kerala group trip offers a safe, social, and expertly guided way to explore one of India’s most beautiful regions.
If you’re searching for a carefully curated Kerala group tour, this is your chance to experience India with community, authenticity, and confidence.
Unsure? Book a video call with the team!
£199 Payment Deposit Option Available
What’s Included?
Your trip will last 10 nights 11 days
bucket-list activities included
Handpicked amazing accommodations
17 meals included
immersion in local activities
Local guide and Tour leader that will like family
24/7 help and support
Discover South India in a Safe, Social & Immersive Way
Throughout your Kerala group tour in South India, every detail is designed to give you an authentic and completely stress-free travel experience. You’ll explore alongside knowledgeable local guides who bring each destination to life – from ancient temples and colourful markets to places many travellers never discover.
Cruise through Kerala’s world-famous backwaters on a traditional houseboat, watch golden sunsets from palm-lined beaches, and soak up the contrast between vibrant Indian cities and peaceful tropical landscapes. This journey blends culture, nature, and connection in a way that feels immersive but never overwhelming.
Food is a huge part of the experience. From freshly made dosas and rich South Indian curries to traditional home-cooked meals, you’ll discover the true flavours of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. With accommodation, transport, and key activities included, this fully organised Kerala group trip allows you to simply arrive, relax, and embrace the adventure with like-minded travellers.
Day 1

Welcome to Kerala!
Welcome to Kerala - also known as ‘God’s Own Country’ - famous for its palm-fringed beaches, lush landscapes, peaceful backwaters and rich cultural heritage. We will pick you up from the airport, and bring you to our first hotel in Fort Kochi. Depending on your flight time, you may have time to explore the area before our group welcome dinner. We are so excited to begin!
Day 2

TukTuks, Temples & Tea
We will start the morning with a TukTuk tour around Fort Kochi. We will make 2-3 stops within the area to learn about the history, arts and religions. Expect to see rare antiques, bustling markets, delicate jewellery and be followed by the smell of incense wherever you go. Afterwards, we will begin the journey to Munnar, our first stop of the trip. Watch as the busy city scenes turn into mountainous, rolling landscapes, and listen as the chorus of car horns fade into silence. One word to describe Munnar? Peaceful (& beautiful, but that was 2).
Day 3

From Leaf to Cup
If you like tea - you’ll love today! If you don’t like tea, then we guarantee you’ll still be fascinated as we embark on a farm to cup adventure. We will begin by exploring the tea plantations of Munnar and trust us, there’s a lot of them! Munnar is home to the world’s highest tea plantations, with an incredibly successful business here due to the altitude and rich soils. There will be many opportunities to capture pictures, before heading to an operating tea factory. You will learn how the leaves become the drink that is internationally consumed, complete with tea tasting at the end. Now, how does a sunset cup of chai sound?
Day 4

Spice Stories & Local Life
We visited Munnar for the landscapes, but Thekkady made its way onto our itinerary for the wildlife! This morning we will travel to Thekkady, aiming to be there around midday so you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon. This evening, we will be immersed into local life with a tour around a family spice garden. We mainly see spices in glass containers back at home, so being able to smell ‘all spice’ from a single leaf is mind-boggling! (Who knew it wasn’t just all the spices mixed together?!) Following our tour, we will put our aprons on and learn to make some traditional Indian dishes in the family home. Expect chaos, laughter, and really delicious food!
Day 5

Quiet Trails & Wild Encounters
Wakey wakey, it’s time to take-y a walk into Periyar National Park! A moderately-easy walk around a flat area of the park, leading us to a lake. Keep your eyes peeled for Elephants, Tigers, Bison and more! When we reach the lake, we will hop on a Bamboo Raft in the hopes of spotting more wildlife. After an exhilarating yet peaceful morning in nature, you will have the afternoon to do what you please. Perhaps another activity in the National Park, a book by the pool or an optional yoga class.
Day 6

Into the Backwaters
Today, we leave the winding, mountain roads behind and head back towards the coast. The vibe of the trip has completely slowed down by this point, offering more chances to be present, mindful and make some incredible connections on the famous backwaters of Alleppey - our next stop. Our favourite memories when travelling include meeting local families, which is exactly what we will do during our homestay. We will check in, and go for a walk around the villages with the family. It is so interesting and important to see local life amongst the canals, and we know that this immersion will be a truly memorable part of the trip.
Day 7

Sunsets & Slow Days
After a lovely night in the homestay, you will now get to experience the backwaters the bucket-list way: on a houseboat! We will spend today cruising the canals, with a new understanding of what’s going on beyond them thanks to yesterday’s discoveries! Listen to the water lapping against the boat, download a podcast to listen to, or simply watch the world go by on this day dedicated to relaxation and slow-living. We will then return back to the homestay for a delicious home-cooked meal.
Day 8

Cliffs, Coasts & Colour
Did you know that the best way to end a trip is at the beach? Today, we travel to our penultimate destination - Varkala! This beach town is found on a cliff - unique right? Upon arrival, we will visit a beautiful, colourful temple on a walking tour to get our bearings. Our recommendation for the evening is to watch the sunset from a restaurant on the cliff, eating delicious food in a magical place.
Day 9

Varkala, Your Way
There are so many ways to spend a day in Varkala, so we are leaving it up to you! You can stroll the cliffs for some shopping, attend a yoga class, book in for relaxing spa therapies, go cafe-hopping, spend time on the beach or even do a surf lesson! In the cooler afternoon, we will organise a group yoga session, to relax, breathe and reflect in the original birth country of yoga practices. We hope you’re feeling really chilled after all of the adventure we have had so far.
Day 10

Rails, Reflections & Farewells
You’ve not visited a country if you haven’t used public transport, some may say. We will travel by train back up north to Fort Kochi. Trains in India are an experience in itself - be prepared to drink some incredible cups of tea for only 10 Rupee! Arriving back in Fort Kochi, you will have the afternoon to return to anywhere you loved from the Day 2 TukTuk tour - perhaps something caught your eye at the market? In the evening, we will come together one last time for a group farewell dinner. Time flies when you’re travelling Kerala, and we are so grateful that you trusted us with this once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Day 11

Goodbye for Now
Goodbye friends! Until next time - but remember, we’re here to support you and your travels for as long as you need us. That being said, if you need some help with onward travel planning following any of our Group Trips - please just book a call with us, or if you’re a Type B traveller, speak to us on the trip! Safe journey!
What's Included?
- 10-nights accommodation
- Welcome and Farewell Group Dinners
- All Internal transport
- Fort Kochi TukTuk Tour
- Bamboo Rafting
- Periyar Tiger Reserve
- Tea Leaf to Cup Experience
- Backwaters Houseboat Cruise
- Traditional Indian Cooking Class
- Sunset Yoga Class
- Spice Garden Tour
- 17 Meals included
- AIRPORT Transfers
- GROUP LEADER
- Professional and trusted local guide
What's Not Included?
- International flights to/from India
- Your personal travel insurance is not included
- Spending money
- Activities, food and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel visa if required
Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!
Still not 100% sure? No stress.
Booking a group trip with people you’ve never met is a big deal – we get it.
If you’ve got questions, want to check the vibe, or just make sure it’s right for you…
jump on a quick video call with us.
Don't take our word for it.
The Team behind Onda Adventures and The Backpacker Hub
Our Promise to Wildlife
Wildlife deserves respect. We’ve seen first-hand the damage tourism can cause. That’s why we only work with ethical sanctuaries and support hands-off animal experiences.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I join this group trip if I’m travelling alone?
Yes – most travellers on our Kerala group tour will join solo. These trips are designed for travellers who want the experience of travelling independently while being part of a small, social group. You’ll meet your group at the start of the trip and travel together throughout Kerala, from the backwaters to the beaches.
What age range is this Kerala group trip for?
Our Kerala group tour is designed primarily for young adults aged 18–39, with some flexibility. The atmosphere is social, relaxed and adventure-focused – perfect for first-time solo travellers or anyone wanting to explore India with like-minded people. Other ages are very much welcome, if wanting to join!
Is Kerala India safe for solo travellers?
Yes – Kerala is considered one of the safest and most relaxed regions in India. It’s known for its welcoming locals, peaceful backwaters and laid-back coastal towns. Travelling as part of a small group also adds an extra layer of comfort and support, especially if it’s your first time in India.
What is included in the price of the Kerala tour?
Your Kerala group tour includes:
Accommodation throughout the trip
All in-country transport
Selected activities and experiences
A dedicated Tour guide and tour leader
Support before and after departure
- Some meals stated in the Itinerary
International flights, personal medical insurance, and personal spending money are not included, giving you flexibility when booking flights.
Are flights included in the Kerala group tour?
No – international flights are not included. This allows you to fly from your nearest airport and gives you flexibility to use points or choose your preferred airline.
We’re happy to provide guidance on the best airports, routes, and timing so you can arrive ready to start your Kerala adventure.
How much spending money will I need in Kerala?
Kerala is very affordable compared to many destinations. Most travellers budget around £200–£300 for additional meals, optional activities and personal expenses, depending on their travel style.
Do I need a visa for India?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the country you’re visiting. It’s your responsibility to check the latest entry and visa rules for your destination.
We can’t apply for visas on your behalf, so we strongly recommend checking with the official embassy or consulate website well before you travel. some countries require visas to be arranged in advance, and requirements can change at any time.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Yes. Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. You’ll need to send proof of your policy to us before the trip start date. If you are unsure on how to do this contact us and we can help.
How physically demanding is this Kerala trip?
This trip is moderate and suitable all fitness levels. Expect light walking, cultural exploration, boat trips through the backwaters and relaxed beach time – no extreme hiking or intense physical activity required.
How many people will be in my group?
Group sizes are kept small so everyone gets the most out of the experience. We run trips with a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 16 people, so you’ll get to know your group without feeling crowded.
How can I get in touch with my group and tour leader?
We’ll create a WhatsApp group chat for everyone on the trip so you can get to know each other, ask questions, and make any plans before departure.
Your tour leader will be introduced around two weeks before the trip, and they’ll also join the chat so you can connect with them and the rest of the group ahead of time.
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