Kerala Tourism and Travel Guide
Then in our office, you will be given a brief idea about the itinerary. Humidity levels are low and so are the chances of rainfall. We make arrangements for your pick up. Hotel suggestions were great. But if it’s a heavy down pour, cruises will not take place. Hanging an ideal balance in between the unsmooth areas and therefore in the coastal region, Monsoon in Kerala square measure majorly of 2 varieties. Tourism has experienced continued growth and extensive diversification and competition on the last decades, becoming one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world and by consequence, one of the main income sources for many developing countries. You may also like: Places for Honeymooners in Kerala and Fort Bekal. The school also provides practical training in Electronic Booking System. Apart from this, Kerala almost falls in the tropical belt which experiences heavy rainfall throughout the year. Nestled amidst verdant hills and luxurious forests, Idukki tourist places allures ardent travellers, nature enthusiasts, and photography buffs with its stunning natural aura and attractions. Another city engulfed by the colonial charm, Trivandrum is adorned with stunning architecture, palaces and temples. Both the royal heads soon struck a chord of friendship which resulted in Elangallur king marrying the daughter of Manavikrama. On either side of the river is dense forest with scattered open spaces. It is one of the best places to visit in Kerala during monsoon.
Kovalam
🚉 Distances:From Coimbatore Railway Station: 104 km, From Cochin International Airport: 148 km, From Palakkad Town: 100 km. It’s a land of waterfalls, green meadows, hill stations, tea plantations and simple and friendly people. Kakkadam Poyil Adventure Sports. It’s the tourists love. However, homestay owners have raised concerns about the the stand of local self government bodies LSGDs which seem to be against homestays. After all, the place is famous keralatourismhotels for its richness in cultures, traditions, and tribal heritage. “GypZe is a flagship venture of StreetGooser and a one of a kind online travel companion and guide,” she explains. Getting to spend a family vacation in the amazing land of Kerala is a blessing. Kerala takes great pride in displaying a number of picturesque locations that are tourist attractions. Every year this temple organizes Mannarasala Aayilyam which is a festival in a grand way. Academy has a track record of 100% pass rate and placement. You can also understand the complex tea processing from the adjacent tea processing centre. Browse this full collection of kerala tourism images, including PNG images with transparent background, professional and easy to edit templates, HD stock photos, banner background, beautiful illustration images and creative design images. Lots of eateries, swimming, and beach activities are available here. Lucky are those people who enjoy the rain and Monsoon Tourism in Kerala – It’s a great and much more than just an ‘eye catching’ view. Alappuzhahouse boat rate.
Kerala Tourism Location Map
Morning, after breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Cochin airport for your flight back home, feeling contented about a wonderful holiday you spent in the “God’s Own Country”. Since it is not as popular with tourists, this place is the ideal destination for honeymooners to spend time alone in this natural paradise. Aveda Resorts and Spa KUMARAKOM. The place is known for its lush greenery, calm backwaters and thrilling water activities. It is not just tea esates, but through forests and arracknut, and other such plantations. It was at this point of Kerala Government, slowly started realizing the importance of tourism. This is was one of my best trips to Kerala. Choosing from among the various wild hill stations in Kerala, the beach and backwater experience can be challenging. Ooty Trekking and Camping Places.
2 Kumarakom
The owner of these guesthouses takes the guests out on a short and secret hike. A picturesque waterfall that captures the essence of Munnars breathtaking scenery. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport. During our Kerala family package tour, you can enjoy the beauty and hospitality of God’s own country. Alleppey Houseboat Tour>. Address: Plot No 52 , 3rd Floor,. Our Kerala Tourism Package tour exceeded our expectations. Species dwelling the sanctuary are Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, leopard, tiger, Indian bison, etc. The famous banana chips of Aluva are favourite snacks of many. By asking the world to boycott Kerala, they have already lost the respect of Keralites. Alleppey or Alappuzha. While being a hotspot among the beach lovers, Varkala is also known for the ancient Janardana Swami Temple that dates back to 2,000 years. Soojippara Waterfall. Countries that are small enough to see in a day. Hanging an ideal balance in between the unsmooth areas and therefore in the coastal region, Monsoon in Kerala square measure majorly of 2 varieties. The cool mountain air and the green grassy hills everywhere you look will no doubt mesmerize you. October to February Winter. Places To Stay: The Raviz Kovalam, Hilton Garden Inn, Hycinth HotelsThings To Do: Sightseeing, shopping, Click PicturesIdeal Duration: 1 Night/2 DaysPopular Tourist Attractions: Aruvikkara Dam, Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary, Poovar, Koyikkal Palace, Kowdiar Palace, Agasthyakoodam, Kanakakunnu Palace, Anchuthengu Fort, Peppara Dam and Wildlife SanctuaryBest Time To Visit: October to FebruaryNearest Airport: Trivandrum International AirportNearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Central Railway Station. Birds such as Egrets, Darters, Herons, Teals, Waterfowls, Cuckoos, Wild Duck and the Siberian Stork can be seen at the bird sanctuary located here. The coastal state of South India is currently on top of its game in the field of Kerala tourism. As an Indian, I really feel proud when anyone posts a blog related to India.
Popular Tourist Places in Kerala
Each and every moment you spend there can be cherished as you will never need to plan for anything there. Coimbatore International Airport Tamil Nadu 55km. Best Of Shopping In Kerala: What To Buy And Where. Colored decoration outside Kochin Catholic Church in Kerala Photo. Kerala In January: A Guide For A Memorable Vacation In This Southern State. Starting Price On Request. With the 2000 year old Janardhanaswamy Temple and Sivagori Mutt, this place is home for many religious activities. If you are looking for Kerala customized tour packages, we can help you to design the same.
Location
Guests can benefit direct or stopover flights till Calicut from various parts of Kerala and in addition rest of India, contingent on accessibility. Vythiri is known for blanketing charming antique cottages, gorgeous tree houses, and the magnificent log huts. Top 18 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala. 6 Tourist Places In Thodupuzha To Visit In 2023. Things to Do: Enjoy various rides at Lion’s Park, visit Mishkal Mosque, enjoy swimming at Kozhikode beach, witness the beauty of Thusharagiri Waterfalls. They can also go with Ayurveda spas and therapies. Kallar River and Meenmutty waterfalls are the nearby tourist attractions of Ponmudi, visitors have to trek some distance through the forest to reach the Meenmutty falls. Bekal Fort in Kasaragod is one of the most visited Kerala tourist places towards the North. Alapuzha beach, not only offers its visitors a stunning panorama of ivory sapphire landscapes but is home to the fascinating sand art festival that attracts international artists galore. Fish Molee is nothing but lightly fried fish made into a stew. According to your train/flight time back to Thiruvananthapuram airport / Kanyakumari railway station for your onward journey back home. This includes Top Station and Anamudi Peak in Munnar, Rajmalai or Eravikulam National Park, Ramakkalmedu, Thoovanam waterfalls, Dhoni Hills, Chimmini, and many more. The second edition of the virtual Kerala Travel Mart KTM has begun with State Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas highlighting the government’s steps to strengthen investments in infrastructure development, capacity building and marketing for the growth of the travel and hospitality industry. Indulging in this fun activity is a must. Helpdesk Contact Numbers: Please call at 14414 or 011 23042707 between 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM on working days for any assistance. Nearest Airport: Calicut International AirportNearest Railway Station: Kannur Main. Amid the picturesque island of Bolgatty is the beautiful Bolgatty Palace, the exclusive mansion with. Adorned by the charm of the emerald Vembanad Lake, the evergreen coconut grooves, breezy rice fields, and lot more, Kumarakom is popular among all the types of visitors. Kochi Darshan Packages. To cater to this huge influx of tourists, there are available heaps of comfortable hotels and resorts in Munnar. You will always find friendly people to talk to on your journey, both locals and outstation tourists. Best Time to Visit Coorg > Temperature and Climate in Coorg.
Wish to book boathouse for family
Day 3 Thekkady : After breakfast travel to Thekkady85 KM, 3 Hours. Cruising down the Kumarakom backwaters in cozy houseboats equipped with a living room, bedrooms, bath, and private sit out, along with a chef to offer local culinary delicacies, will prove to be a lifetime experience to the visitors. Kollam is considered one of the oldest ports on the Malabar coast and has long been a centre of attraction for international countries. This sleepy little town is thus an emerging tourist hotspot. This multicultural district used to be the most important trading port in Kerala, where business flourished for more than 1,000 years before it was severely damaged by a flood. 7 Days Kerala Tour Packages. On entering the cave you can get a surreal experience. Angelo, Pallikunnu, Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Places
There are various places in Kerala but temples of here depict a lot about the history and culture of this place. Kerala offers a range of experiences for travelers, from relaxing on sandy beaches and exploring backwaters on houseboats, to trekking in the Western Ghats and experiencing the region’s rich art and culture. Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station, which is 110 km away from Munnar. There are Jungle resource, farmhouse, houseboat, and hotel. In a small coastal village, there are motor boat cruises, Shikara Boat cruises, special honeymoon cruises, sunrise sunset cruises, lunch and dinner cruises, bird watching cruises and island round cruises. The major attractions include the Pathiramanal island and Kumarakom bird sanctuary. The nearest railway station to Kumarakom is the Kottayam Railway Station, located 16 km 32 min away via Kottayam Kumarakom Rd. Kovalam is very popular for its stunning beaches. If you have any queries or need further information about the top places to visit in Kerala, feel free to leave your questions in the comments section. The pleasure this place offers to its visitors is inspiring and precious. Nestled with Green Mountains, Tea Gardens, Waterfalls, a Banquet of Vibrant Flower and Spiced Scented Valley, Munnar is Heaven. So, wait no longer and plan your Kerala tour for a complete vacation. They cannot be abusive or personal. Regional Agricultural Research Station, KumarakomThe Coconut Research Station, Kumarakom was established in the year 1947 to cater the research needs of coconut in the reclaimed alluvial soils of Kuttanad. Kerala Tourism bags PATA Gold Award for its marketing campaign. 2 Days in Trivandrum Places to Visit. Known for being home to the country’s largest Tiger Reserve, Thekkady is one of the most sought after jungle vacation destinations in Kerala. The sanctuary covers 345 square kilometres and is blessed with moist deciduous forests with different plantations, including bamboo, teak, oak, and eucalyptus. Species dwelling the sanctuary are Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, leopard, tiger, Indian bison, etc. Conservationists have been working tirelessly to protect this unique habitat, ensuring the continued survival of these stunning creatures. Calicut International Airport 154km. Nearest Railway Station: Kasaragod Railway Station is just 12 km from Bekal.
Deer at Parambikulam National Park
Be it a sightseeing tour across the beaches of Kerala, a tour in the lush green spice plantations, a wildlife tour in the untouched forests of Thekkady or a romantic getaway Kerala tour package for the newly wed. Accommodation is provided for the dormitory. Thiruvananthapuram varkkala entekeralam keralaphotography traditional of kerala culture beautifulnature beautifulkerala bharatheeyam keralam monsoon keralasea amazingnature attractive greenery കേരളം. Morning 07:30 AM starts cruise through the backwaters and check out 9. The sanctuary also offers opportunities for trekking, camping and bamboo rafting. The unmatched beauty of the beach is at its prime during sunsets. Pre historical archaeological findings suggest the existence of the Neolithic, Mesolithic, Megalithic, and Palaeolithic periods, along with the glorious Indus Valley Civilization. Do visit Muthanga Wildlife sanctuary where you can find Bison, Cheetah, Spotted Deer, and Bears. Alleppey and Kumarakom are perfect destination for houseboat tour packages. Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750. The trek to Palaruvi through dense tropical forests is an awe inspiring experience. One can taste some authentic black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and the exotic vanilla and meanwhile also explore the farms on a nature walk. Book Kerala honeymoon packages from the best tour operator in Kerala with Houseboat, Pool Villa, Treehouses, Hill Station Resorts, backwater resorts. Surrounded by aromatic tea and spice plantations, Idukki is undeniably one of the famous tourist spots in Kerala perfect for treks, nature walks, and bird watching. This picturesque destination is one of the most beautiful places in Kerala. You can drive all the way along its vast stretch of sand. Wayanad invites you to lose yourself in the heart of nature. If you like tea, a visit to Munnar is a must. Visiting Kerala is like visiting a tropical paradise. Kovalam is famous for its beaches, among the most pristine in India. The state is home to lovely cities, each with its own charm and special purpose. What is special about the town of Kollam. The hill station appears to look like a sparkling green emerald sprawled all over the Western Ghats. Look for tour packages for groups or couples in Kerala based on your set budget. Kadakampally Surendran – January 2018.
Breakfast and Dinner
Kannur is one of the best tourist places in Kerala enriched with its naturistic cultural activities and old traditions. Check out from Houseboat at 10 AM and proceed to Cochin. It is a forested village and ecotourism destination in Kerala. The Tourism Club, part of the Department of Tourism, is dedicated to creating platforms to showcase your skills. Kochi 6 Nights and 7 Days Packages. During the ancient period, Kerala’s rich spice trade attracted the Babylonians, Assyrians, and Egyptians. It is believed that the warm water has mystical properties that wash away all sins. This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Kerala trip is definitely incomplete without a backwater cruise on a houseboat. Travel and Tourism agency trifold brochure.
Hotels Near Airport
Quick getaways to stunning destinations. Our exclusive Cochin tour package will give you a unique experience of fun and entertainment in your days. It welcomes guests into a beautiful world of charm and vivacity. Its food consists of natural produce and distinctive flavours of the state. Appellate Authority : Joint Director. The pier was built by Hugh Crawford in 1862. A favorite range of migratory birds, the bird sanctuary is a dwelling and breeding ground of many aboriginal species. The gentle breeze of the water and the calm environment would be the best way to calm the restless mind. Every beach, especially the ones in Kovalam, Marari, and Varkala, offers you a one of a kind experience that will last a lifetime, from the local fishermen to the foreign tourists. Rajkot to Kerala tour packages. You will discover that Varkala is the only place in southern Kerala to have hills lying adjacent to the sea. A photo posted by بدر الشامسي – بونايف @bader alshamsi on Jul 29, 2016 at 10:53pm PDT. You will be picking from Cochin Airport / Ernakulam railway station and take to the hotel.
Leejeya Joseph TCI, Cochin
George Scaria, Managing Director, Keralavoyages India Pvt Ltd, said, “The month of December kindled hopes of buoyancy in the tourism sector with occupancy in hotels in popular destinations reaching 100%. Engaging in fishing activities along with the villagers will be an incredible experience for the tourists. If you are planning for a visit to the stunning Parambikulam Tiger Reserve during your Kerala trip, you must make it before 04:00PM to the main gate of the reserve. Summer March May, Winter November February, Monsoon June October. The reserve offers a large number of accommodation options, which are basic. Kannur Railway Station. How much this package cost / Person : Package cost is absolutely based on the hotel section, car preference, how many of you travel and of course what season you are travelling. Although the backwaters of Alleppey are humungous, most tourists choose to explore the main canal areas and it’s also here where you should visit to make the most of your time. In addition to guiding you through how to reach Kerala, our tour planners also help you to book the most convenient trains or flights from your home destination at the lowest possible fare. Department of Tourism,Kannur. The Chalakudy River that is generally calm gets more tumultuous as it nears Athirapilly. Beaches, Backwaters, Spas, and More. Letter to Minister of Finance and Minister of Tourism – January 2009. The houseboats, meandering over the waters, have earned Alleppey the sobriquet ‘Venice of the East’. With a band of fearless guerrilla warriors, often armed only with swords and bows and arrows, the Raja waged war against the much better supplied Company armies, inflicting havoc on their supply chains and scout patrols. One of the most sought out resorts in Munnar with a great ambiance and service. These hills are at a varying height of 467 meters to 1572 meters. Guests booked in 2023. January 12, 2023 10:31 pm Updated 10:45 pm IST Thiruvananthapuram. And if there is any other place in India that can be equally compared with Goa, it has to be Kerala. Kumarakom also offers you countless other attractions. Muziris extends to Kodungallur where the astonishing and rather gory Kodungallur Bhagavathy temple festival takes place in late March or early April each year and Paravoor. Top Tourist Spots in Alleppey. We can go through the months and what you should experience. Kumarakom is particularly renowned for its exceptional bird watching opportunities, primarily centered around the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Kerala, situated in the southern part of Peninsular India, is widely known for its salubrious climate, backwaters, Ayurveda, splendid beaches as well as its rich history and heritage. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a noted bird sanctuary in Kerala where many species of migrating birds visit.
Quick link
Kovalam, a small town located 16 km from the capital city Thiruvananthapuram is Kerala’s most famous tourist attraction and most popular beach in India. ♦ Kerala State Tourism Award for ‘Most Innovative use of Information Technology’. Starting Price ₹ 9370 / Person. One state, many emotions; yes, that’s the charm and allurement visitors get to unravel while in Kerala. We wanted our honeymoon to be comforting and relaxing. Kochi 2 Nights and 3 Days Packages. Kochi International Airport 67km. Read on to learn more. The district is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, therefore perfect for spending time with nature and indulging in adventures. Contact Us Enquiry Kerala Tour Honeymoon Site Map Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions. Whether you are a nature lover, beach goer, history buff, culture fan, thrill seeker, or a casual backpacker, you would surely fall in love with the untouched beauty of Kannur. The town served as the leading spice market in medieval and modern. After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Munnar 5 hours drive on arrival check into the hotel. K Jose IAS, Secretary LSGD – October 2016. Because of this, it is also known as Crescent Beach. Rooms in Wayanad remain booked between the months of February and April due to several festivals in temples and churches. This is my first trip w. Summer March May, Winter December February, Monsoon June September. Locations: Alleppey, Kumarakom, KasargodBest Time: June to MarchOperators: ATDC Alleppey, The Houseboat Kerala, Alappuzha HouseboatsCost: For Houseboats, prices depend on the size of the houseboats and vary from INR 7000 sharing basis to 10,000 individual basis and onwards. However, the temperature often plummets to 10 degree Celsius in the highland regions like Munnar, Wayanad, Thekkady, and the likes. The Malabar restaurant is featured in this Wayanad travel guide owing to the authentic Malabar flavours it dishes out at affordable rates. Information on Tourist Visas, Foreign Exchange, Tourist Visa Extension, and other Kerala Tourism queries can be obtained from Official Website of Kerala Tourism or from the Government Website of Department of Tourism, Kerala. With a Kerala honeymoon package, you can choose from various accommodation options like floating cottages, treehouses, safari tents, houseboats, luxury resorts, etc. Yes, houseboats in Kerala are designed to provide a comfortable and romantic experience for honeymooners. This version of a chicken fry is something that is served on a banana leaf, the chicken is fried with onion, garlic, chilli, vinegar and coriander.
Toll Free
It has many great getaway locations for nature lovers. 9 Hotels Near Trivandrum That Offers You Great Experience In Kerala. Following are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala. Munnar is the most loved place in Kerala and we got to experience it in real. For Integration to state dashboard from Govt. Day 3 Munnar : After breakfast, proceed for Munnar full day sightseeing. Gold Award 2008 for Culture Utsavam, Kerala Arts Festival. Can I book only taxi services for my package. Visit this place for elephant rides in the lush greenery. The temple is also known as Kaltrikkovil in Malayalam language and is a beautiful rock cut temple. The campaign, which was also conducted in metros like Kolkata, Delhi and Bengaluru, requests people to not select Kerala as their tourist destination till the government rescinds its decision to kill stray dogs. The National Adventure Foundation conducts a course on paragliding in Munnar.
Things To Do
You Can Book This Package from Delhi Mumbai Kolkata Pune Bangalore Chennai and Other Cities in India and Abroad. Kochi International Airport 67km. Com Travel Division, Cochin, Kerala, India. Your request for new password has been accepted. This coastal state has a destination for everyone— whether it’s the beach, mountains, adventure, wildlife, heritage or culture you’re interested in. Over all the North India tour packages arranged by Kerala Season was above our expectations. Kakkadam Poyil Adventure Sports. Whether you are beach goer or seeking to rejuvenate yourself with Ayurvedic massages and spa therapies, planning for a romantic getaway amidst the misty mountains or simply let loose the shutterbug in you, our hand picked Kerala tour packages assures you a dream come true experience in God’s Own Country. By 6 in the evening all the activities end in the sanctuary. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kerala during the monsoon, so you can kick off your Kerala bucket list. You may get in touch with the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation website directly for details specifically about them. I was made to feel at home. This area has been a tourist favourite over the years. Backwaters of Alleppey has a lot more in its storehouse which extends ultimate fun to the visitors; the houseboat running on the stagnant green water is a dream space for honeymoon couples. It is usually served with Kadala Curry, which are essentially black chickpeas. Varkala is quite away from the crowds and is one of the serene locales. We are extremely happy with our Kerala Tourism package tour. Tamarind Hotel Alappuzha is a KTDC budget hotel located in Alleppey Alappuzha town in Kerala near Nehru Trophy boat race venue. Thissmall town in Kerala has earned a good name because of its numerous religiousplaces including temples, mosques, and church which attracts lots of devoteesfrom over the country all year round. The drive is undoubtedly picturesque. Though they extended support to their dear king to win back Madurai, Manavikrama had scant interest. Summer March May, Winter October February, Monsoon June August.
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Webinar on Sensitization of members and Board of Directors of FPOs on business plan. A short ride in the traditional boat – Kettuvallam is a wonderful idea too. I was made to feel at home. This kaleidoscopic city is much more than a tourist destination. The green beauty and the transparent water life are really appealing to everyone. NB: You should not submit anything else other than addition / correction of page content. This is one of the Ecotourism Spots in Kerala. Madurai Airport 140km, Kochi International Airport 265km. Decide on the mode of transportation – whether you’ll be flying to Kerala or taking a train or road trip. The town, which still retains its colonial charm, has a large number of hotels to greet travellers. We’re long term subscribers to WARC and it’s a tool we use extensively. Ministry of TourismGovt. Though their original title was Perumal, they adopted the title Raja for male members and Thampuratty for female members. Varkala is quite away from the crowds and is one of the serene locales. Hill View Peak, Nandukani, Painavu, and Keezharkuthu Falls are major attractions in this region. Cochin Munnar Ooty Mysore Hassan. The Tourism Department will intensify its marketing activities to further capitalise on the momentum created in the post pandemic phase so as to enhance the footfall of both domestic and foreign visitors in the upcoming tourism season, he said on Tuesday while inaugurating the four day event of KTM Society, the State’s tourism apex forum. Nearest Airport: Kochi Airport. December to February Winter. Alhind Academy is an IATA Authorized Training Centre ATC for International Travel and Tourism, Aviation, Cargo and GDS courses. Arabian Sea on the western side of the state forms the stunning beaches of Kerala and backwaters adds the beauty of this charming place. Places To Stay: Hotel Hill View Tower, Ritzy Malabar The Retreat Hotel, KTDC TamarindThings To Do: Shopping, relax amidst serenityIdeal Duration: 1 Night/2 DaysPopular Tourist Attractions: Ooty, Wayanad, Munnar, Palakkad, Nilambur, Coonoor, MalampuzhaBest Time To Visit: May to SeptemberNearest Airport: Calicut airport is the nearest at 73 kmNearest Railway Station: Palakkad Railway Station is the nearest at 32 km.
Inclusions:
Unravel the Mesmerising Beauty of the Silent Backwaters with a Houseboat Cruise. The scenes of Kerala can unleash the nature lover in you. The Panchayat members meet at least once a month to discuss administrative and developmental issues. Cochin Kumarakom Alleppey. Exchange a coin and you make no difference but exchange a thought and you can change the world. We have both luxury and budget accommodation as per your need. With a wide geography and so many mesmerising honeymoon destinations in Kerala, the verdant state has many things to offer. This is a must visit place in Kerala and is a great attraction for tourists. The monsoon winds blowing from the sea first arrive in Kerala before moving northwards. Bekal is the ideal place for the holiday. Ranking first in the total number of international and domestic tourist arrivals in Kerala, it is a land of an amazing blend of Chinese, Portuguese and British influences. We have created this guide to introduce you to the various Kerala Honeymoon Packages. Today these are a familiar sight on the backwaters and in Alappuzha alone, there are as many as 500 houseboats.