Making travel arrangements in India can be confusing enough without having to choose a reliable tour operator from the multitudes. So on your behalf, we've researched several of the top companies who are based in Kerala and eventually teamed up with Oriental Routes (who also operate in Delhi). Not only is this operator very familiar with all of i-escape's properties, it has unearthed some other lovely resorts for us.
Whether it's a heady but swift sample of Keralan delights, a trip through the backwaters on a traditional rice boat, or simply a private driver for a couple of weeks, Oriental Routes can tailormake your trip of a lifetime. They will suggest itineraries, book the accommodation and arrange private transfers for you. You just need to decide what you want to do, and book your international flights.
Why we chose this partner
- They're well established, with 10 years' experience and 70 staff, which includes a good mix of foreign and local management. They know about all the new openings and best things to do in and around Kerala
- They employ their own guides and personally train them, then monitor their ongoing performance through customer feedback. During our trip with their Rajasthani branch, we found the local guides excellent: informative and friendly
- Clean cars and friendly, careful drivers make for a very pleasant journey, no matter how rough the terrain
- Drivers and guides tend to shoo away any hawkers; you’ll be extremely grateful at times
- Being looked after. India is fabulous but overwhelming at times. Having someone to metaphorically hold your hand will help you relax into the experience
- They take their social responsibilities very seriously
Please be aware
- i-escape can only vouch for those properties which are featured and reviewed on our website. For other areas and accommodations, while we do trust our operator to provide the best options for your needs, you should make sure that you are happy with their suggestions before confirming
Best time to go
From a climatic point of view, by far the best time to go is from end November to March, when it is dry, clear and not too hot. April and May are normally quite dry, but getting rapidly hotter. From May through October there is first a southwest (June, July) and then a milder northeast monsoon (mid October/November), which bring rain and wind to the whole region, especially the coast. There is usually some respite from the monsoon in August/September.
But, if you are heading inland, visiting cities or taking a yoga or Ayurveda break, the monsoon season is still an option. Empty streets and beaches, fewer crowds and touts, and massive discounts on air travel and accommodation (sometimes as much as 50%) make it especially attractive. But some hotels and tourist attractions close during this time.
But, if you are heading inland, visiting cities or taking a yoga or Ayurveda break, the monsoon season is still an option. Empty streets and beaches, fewer crowds and touts, and massive discounts on air travel and accommodation (sometimes as much as 50%) make it especially attractive. But some hotels and tourist attractions close during this time.
Our top tips
Even if you book a private driver for your entire trip, consider taking a train journey at some point. The experience is fascinating and totally immersive - hectic, colourful and exciting.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 5 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Our two favourite stays were Windermere in Munnar and Coconut Lagoon. Munnar was unforgettable, the kindness of the staff (we were ill), the set food and mountain culture, the tea plantation tour, all wonderful. Coconut Lagoon was exquisite, loved the boat to and from, the sunset cruise, kayaking and nature. The food didn’t quite live up to the rest of the experience but would certainly go back. The driver we had was just brilliant, like a rock, he made the holiday in some respects. He also took time to meet us in Triv and return some lost property which was kind of him. The tour company were waiting at the wrong terminal when we arrived at Cochin so it was a bit stressful after a long flight. Wasn’t the best start. Also when Sheby’s van broke down our replacement driver took a while to settle with us and Oommen was not very present. That said it was a wonderful holiday, exceeded our already high expectations.
If you're going to Kerala I would 100% recommend Tailormade Tours. We travelled with kids and it made travelling off the beaten track an excellent experience. Oommen was responsive and helpful and brought our bespoke trip in on budget with good quality hotels and driver.
Very well organised tour. Made travelling and exploring Kerala easy even with two young children. Rooms were all family friendly and safe. Staff couldn't be more accommodating.
Dealing with Oomman at Tailormade Travel was a pleasure, he responded promptly to all my requests and, at very short notice, organised a superb trip across south India. I will not hesitate to use his services again.
We were initially cautious about using the Indian based travel agent recommended by i-escape to organise our tour of Kerala, but we needn’t have worried.
We stayed in eight different places and took four flights. We were looked after the entire time and the standard of accommodation was excellent. We have no hesitation in recommending Tailormade Tours - Kerala and will definitely use them again if we travel to that part of the world.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape