Kerala Tour Packages for Outsiders and Foreign Visitors: Do’s and Don’ts

Kerala, often referred to as God's Own Country, is a tropical paradise that welcomes travelers with open arms. From its serene backwaters to lush hill stations and vibrant festivals, Kerala offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and tradition. 

But for foreign tourists, understanding the local culture and safety norms is key to having a smooth, respectful, and memorable journey.

How to reach Kerala:

Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Major airports, such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Calicut, offer flights from across India and abroad.

Trains from major Indian cities connect to key stations in Kerala. National highways and state buses also make road travel convenient and scenic.

If you are from Chhattisgarh, there are multiple flight options from Raipur to Kochi, either direct or with stopovers in cities like Hyderabad or Delhi.

Although there may not be a direct train from Chhattisgarh to Kerala, you can still reach Kerala by changing trains at major junctions, such as Visakhapatnam, Chennai, or Bangalore.

Once you arrive, you can easily connect with reputable tour operators in Kerala, who offer a variety of travel packages to explore its natural beauty, culture, and backwaters.

The Do’s: Smart Tips for a Smooth Trip:

1. Get reliable information about the state from YouTube travel channels, trusted travel blogs, or reputable magazines.
2. Do Drink Bottled Water. Always opt for sealed bottled water. Kerala is humid, and staying hydrated is key. Avoid tap water, even in restaurants.
3. Do Respect Local Customs: Remove shoes before entering someone's home or religious places. A slight head bow and a smile go a long way in gaining local goodwill.
4. Use Trusted Travel Agencies For a Hassle-Free Trip, Book with Licensed Travel Operators. Troper Tours and TroperTour.com are highly rated options that offer custom tour packages for foreign travelers.
5. Do Try the Local Cuisine (with Caution) Kerala cuisine is rich in spices. Start mild and work your way up. Don’t miss dishes like Kerala Sadya, Karimeen Pollichathu, and Puttu with Kadala curry.

The Don’ts: Avoid These Common Mistakes:

1. Don’t Display Affection Publicly. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Even holding hands may attract attention in rural areas.
2. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English. While English is widely spoken in cities, many locals prefer Malayalam. Learning a few local phrases helps in building rapport.
3. Don’t Enter Temples if You're Not Allowed. Some temples restrict entry for non-Hindus. Always ask permission or check signage.
4. Don’t Litter or Disrespect Nature. Kerala is proud of its cleanliness and ecological awareness. Always use bins, especially in protected areas like national parks and beaches.
5. Don’t Rely Solely on Cash. Digital payments via UPI and cards are common. But keep some cash handy for small vendors and auto-rickshaws.

Local Insights: What Makes Kerala Unique?

Cultural Etiquette: Avoid touching others with your feet, and don’t point fingers directly at people. Respect elders and participate in local festivals if invited.

Transportation Tips: Use prepaid taxis or reliable ride apps like Uber in cities. In villages, auto-rickshaws and local buses are affordable options.

Internet Access: Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafes, but for seamless connectivity, buy a local SIM card (Airtel or Jio).

Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal for sightseeing. June to September is monsoon season — lush, but wet.

Emergency Numbers:

Tourist Police: 1800-425-3939
Ambulance: 102
Fire: 101
Women Helpline: 1091

Conclusion:

Kerala offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. From serene backwaters to lush hill stations and vibrant festivals, it’s a must-visit destination for every traveler. Whether you're a nature lover or culture explorer, Kerala promises a memorable experience.