🧾 Cost Factors?

Planning a trip to South India? Whether you're exploring the backwaters of Kerala, the temples of Tamil Nadu, or the hills of Karnataka, understanding the key cost factors can help you choose the best tour package. Here's what influences the price of South India tour packages, especially when booking online.

⭐ 1. Hotel Category (3-Star, 4-Star, 5-Star Luxury)

Accommodation is one of the most significant contributors to your tour cost. South India offers a wide range of hotel options—from budget hotels to premium resorts and heritage stays. A 3-star hotel offers basic comfort and is ideal for solo travelers and budget-conscious families. A 4-star hotel provides better amenities like pools, spa services, scenic locations, and multi-cuisine restaurants. Luxury 5-star hotels and Ayurvedic resorts deliver premium hospitality, breathtaking views, and exclusive experiences, especially in destinations like Munnar, Thekkady, or Varkala.

🚗 2. Type of Vehicle for Transfers and Sightseeing

Your mode of travel affects both comfort and total tour cost. For couples or small groups, a sedan is usually sufficient. Larger groups prefer SUVs or Tempo Travellers for more legroom and smoother hill station travel. The choice of vehicle also determines parking, tolls, fuel consumption, and driver charges. For destinations like Wayanad, Kodaikanal, or Ooty, a higher vehicle class may be recommended for hilly terrain and longer drives.

🧗 3. Adventure & Nature Activities (Add-ons)

Many South India tours include optional adventure activities such as bamboo rafting in Thekkady, night safaris in Wayanad, ziplining in Vagamon, or tea plantation treks in Munnar. These experiences require additional bookings, permits, and guided services. While not always included in standard packages, they enhance your tour with thrill and exclusivity. Customizing your itinerary to include such activities may slightly increase your package cost.

📆 4. Season and Travel Timing

The season you travel in plays a huge role in determining costs. The peak season (November to February) attracts tourists from all over the world, especially to Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Prices are higher due to increased demand for hotels, transport, and attractions. Monsoon season (June to August) offers off-season discounts, ideal for wellness and Ayurveda retreats. Summer vacations (March to May) bring families to hill stations like Ooty and Kodaikanal, resulting in mid-range prices and crowded spots.

🎭 5. Local Shows, Temple Tours & Cultural Additions

Kerala and Tamil Nadu are cultural hotspots. Your tour package may or may not include classical dance performances (like Kathakali or Bharatnatyam), martial arts shows (Kalaripayattu), temple darshan arrangements, or spiritual sessions. These experiences, while optional, enrich your journey and create unforgettable memories. They also require local coordination, ticketing, and often advance booking.

🌏 Bonus: Customizations, Group Size & Inclusions

Every tour can be tailored. Adding special requests like private guides, honeymoon setups, heritage walks, or vegetarian-only meals will affect pricing. Group size also influences per-person costs—larger groups enjoy better cost efficiency. Finally, review what's included: breakfast only vs all meals, entry tickets, or even travel insurance.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“India always calls me back and this time, Kerala welcomed us like an old friend. My wife and I enjoyed every bit of the slow, peaceful journey. The tea gardens, the amazing houeboat, the kind people... it was just what we needed in our retirement years. Maroon Holidays planned it all with such care no rush, no fuss, just ease and beauty. A trip to remember.”

Idris Elamin

Muscat, Oman

“Still daydreaming about our 5 days in Kerala! Misty hills, lazy houseboat cruises, and zero stress, thanks to Maroon Tours! They took care of everything so we could just show up and soak in the magic. Total win!”

Olivia Wilson

Toronto, Canada

★ ★ ★ ★

"Kerala was stunning, no question about that. The stay were lovely, the houseboat was heavenly, and the itinerary seemed nicely paced. That being said… I did think it was a tad overpriced for what was offered. I was hoping for just a little more refinement, particularly on the niceties. But the staff was responsive, and we created some gorgeous memories..worth it!"

Pallavi Mehra

Hyderabad, India

"The pace was just right for a family trip, with thoughtful stops, beautiful stays, and safe travel throughout. My daughters loved the wildlife, houseboat cruise, and nature walks. Highly recommended to any family looking for a well-paced, personalized vacation!"

Marc Dubois

Paris, France

“Our 12 days in Kerala were an absolute joy! From bustling spice markets to peaceful houseboat, every moment was packed with wonder and laughter. My wife and I loved exploring the culture, nature, and amazing food. Big thanks to Maroon Holidays for making everything smooth and fun we’re already dreaming about our next adventure!”

Hans Müller

Zurich, Switzerland

“We have very happy time in Kerala with Maroon Tours. The trip for 12 days was very nice and good for family. We see many beautiful places and feel calm and peace. The hotels and food was good. Our son love jeep safari and animals very much! Thank you for making easy and good plan for us. We remember this trip always with smile.”

Anna Ivanova

Moscow, Russia

“As someone who barely finds time to breathe, planning a honeymoon felt impossible. We booked at the very last minute and I still can’t believe how perfectly it all came together. From Alleppey houseboat to the beach resort, and We even got to visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Highly recommend, especially if you're juggling a hectic schedule like me!”

Rhea Menon

Bangalore, India

“After 18 years in Australia, coming back to Kerala for our 25th anniversary felt like reconnecting with our roots in the most meaningful way. We wanted our kids to not just hear about Kerala but feel it. Maroon Holidays curated the perfect vacation, calm houseboat nights, thrilling off-road jeep safaris, serene kayaking, and even a visit to a tiger reserve that left us speechless. A seamless, soulful trip and a beautiful tribute to Kerala.”

Rajiv Nair

Sydney, Australia

“I usually don’t trust online travel people easily. But Maroon Holidays gave me confidence from day one. They shared everything clearly. The hotels were nice, food was simple and good, and the houseboat stay was something we’ll never forget. My kids loved the pool and nature walks. It was a peaceful and happy trip. Thank you for taking care of us.”

Vishal Patil

Maharashtra, India

“I must say, I approached this trip with rather measured expectations, after all, I’ve seen my fair share of five-star experiences across the globe. But Kerala, through the lens of Maroon Holidays, was something quite remarkable. The arrangements were impeccable Private transfers, elegant accommodations, even the elephant ride tour, all perfectly curated. Quite frankly, it exceeded my expectations. A splendid affair, truly. Well done.”

John Ashford

London, UK

“I was quite nervous planning this trip for my father’s 65th birthday and wanted everything to be perfect and smooth. Thankfully, Maroon Holidays took all the stress off my shoulders. The slow-paced vacation was exactly what Dad needed, peaceful mornings in Munnar, slow jeep safari, calm evenings on the houseboat, and gentle nature walks. My wife and kids loved it too, and Dad felt truly special. Big thanks to the team for handling all details, so I could just relax and enjoy with my family.”

Arjun Kumar

Chennai, India

“My colleague from office, she recommend me Maroon Holidays, she say, ‘Sabine, you must go!’ And really, from airport pick-up to the last day, everything was very well taken care of. My children, they enjoy so much! But for me, the nature trail walk. it was the most beautiful. So calm, so green, I feel very connected to nature. Stay were nice, people were friendly… we feel safe and relaxed the whole time. Thank you, Maroon team, we will remember this always.”

Sabine Keller

Berlin, Germany

"We celebrated my daughter Kiara’s 3rd birthday with both sets of parents on a 10-day trip through Kerala’s hills and Varkala beach. Everything was smooth, scenic, and well-managed. The team was prompt, thoughtful, and gave us exactly the family comfort we needed. Truly memorable!”

Ritika Sharma

New Delhi, India