How to Volunteer in Rural Kerala and Make an Impact
When most people think of Kerala, they imagine houseboats on backwaters or tea gardens on misty hills. But Kerala’s real charm lies in its villages — where culture, traditions, and warm hospitality create unforgettable experiences. Volunteering in rural Kerala not only enriches your trip but also makes a meaningful difference in local lives. This guide will help you make your Kerala itinerary memorable & meaningful for life. 1. Why to Choose Rural Kerala for Volunteering? Volunteering in Kerala’s rural areas gives visitors an opportunity to experience the state apart from experiencing populated tourist locations. The villages offer authentic culture & traditions, friendly hospitality by locals, and untold tales. Volunteering gives you authentic village experiences by immersing you in daily life, unlike traditional Kerala packages. There are multiple ways to contribute—teaching children, supporting women’s groups, or helping in eco-projects. The community is strengthened by each and every action, no matter how big or small it is. Pro Tip: Before you enroll, it is advised to better look for reputable Kerala tour companies or regional NGOs that run such volunteer events. 2. Top Volunteering Opportunities in Rural Kerala (Teaching, Farming, Healthcare & More) There are numerous volunteer opportunities available in Kerala. Amongst all, the most significant opportunities are as follows: Teaching Programs: To support educational initiatives, volunteering to teach computer skills, English or any other subjects in schools is one way to volunteer for the right cause. Sustainable Farming: Encourage organic & sustainable farming projects over inorganic farming in the hill stations of Kerala. Support for Healthcare: To volunteer for the healthcare department, reach out to remote clinics. Help out local medical staff . Eco-Tourism Projects: Support sustainable tourism activities. Encourage eco-friendly responsible travel & sustainable tourism in villages. These kinds of opportunities, which combine leisure and purpose, are trip-worthy to be included in your customized Kerala travel packages. Pro Tip: Select projects as per your preferred skills. There are a lot of activities to be indulged in like from Teaching, farming, to healthcare—choose where you can truly add real value. 3. Best Places to Volunteer in Kerala: Wayanad, Alleppey, Munnar & Kumarakom Your preferred interests will determine the location for volunteering. Each and every region has something special to offer: Wayanad: It is known for its sustainable farming initiatives and for tribal communities that support sustainability.. Alleppey: It defines the combination of ecotourism run by the locals and beautiful backwaters. Munnar: Volunteer on tea plantations and organic farms in the hills. Kumarakom: This area is home to eco-friendly initiatives and bird sanctuaries. Each destination adds depth to your Kerala travel guide, making it more meaningful than a typical Kerala road trip. It has something or the other to experience & learn while volunteering at the same time. Pro Tip: Speak with your Kerala tour planner to mix volunteering with sightseeing for a balanced experience. 4. How to Plan Your Volunteer Trip To ensure a rewarding volunteer experience ,careful examination & better planning is what you all need .Here are some of the key steps that will add value to your volunteer trip, if followed: Decide your duration—whether you want to go for short-term or long-term. To make travel plans to Kerala, get in touch with travel agencies. To combine volunteering with travel, pick trustworthy & informative Kerala tour companies. Mentally get ready for simple authentic living and cultural differences. A reputable Kerala planner can create a fulfilling itinerary that incorporates impact exploration. Pro Tip: Keep a journal when you travel. Writing down your experiences fosters reflection and strengthens bonds with others 5. Unique Experiences To Experience While Volunteering In Kerala, volunteering is more about the reward that is to gain than it is to give back. Anticipate more on following activities that will add value to your volunteering tour : Take part in customary celebrations. During homestays, discover Keralan cuisine. Learn about Ayurvedic methods in rural areas. Hike to undiscovered waterfalls accompanied by locals. These immersive experiences turn your trip into lifelong unforgettable memories, in contrast to generic Kerala family tours or vacation packages with no volunteering . Pro Tip: Carry a travel journal. Documenting your experiences will deepen your connection and help you reflect all the memories to re-live the moment. 6. Balancing Travel and Volunteering altogether Many tourists are curious about how to combine volunteering and leisure time for a better trip. Integration is crucial. By combining volunteer work with touring Kerala’s hill stations, backwaters, and cultural sites ,you can make a significant contribution without missing out on famous locations. Volunteering days can be added to Kerala vacation packages. This guarantees that your Kerala vacation package combines enjoyment and purpose along with a lot of learning thoroughly. Pro Tip: Take advantage of the weekends to explore the destination. For the ideal balance, commit to volunteering during the week days. FAQs Q1. Does volunteering in Kerala require any prior experience? No. Beginners are welcome in many projects. More important than skill is enthusiasm and transparency. Q2. Is it possible to combine volunteering with a honeymoon tour package to Kerala? Indeed. It is definitely possible to add personalized volunteering along with a honeymoon tour package. Q3. How do I find reliable travel agents for Kerala trips for volunteering? Seek out authorized Kerala tour companies that collaborate with neighborhood associations or non-profits communities. Q4. Is volunteering in rural Kerala safe for solo travelers? Yes. Villages in Kerala are known for their hospitality and safety. Just stay connected with your Kerala tour guide. Q5. Can a quick Kerala vacation package include volunteering? Indeed. Volunteering for even two or three days can make your Kerala vacation impactful & memorable. Final Thoughts Your journey becomes more than just a vacation when you volunteer in rural Kerala. It’s a worthwhile opportunity to change lives, embrace customs, and come back with meaningful tales. Whether you are traveling by road, taking a family vacation, or using a Kerala tour operator, volunteering adds value to your trip that will last. If you want your Kerala volunteer journey filled
Planning a Trip to Manali this Summer? Here’s What You Need to Know About the Weather
Tucked away in the Himalayas, Manali is one of the most popular summer getaways for Indians. When the plains heat up, this hill town is cool relief and a mix of scenic beauty and adventure. During the summer, you should expect anything from sunny mornings to misty rains to thunderstorms at any given moment.With a bit of planning, you can still get the most out of your Manali trip. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about Manali weather, including temperatures, rainfall amounts, what to pack, things to do in Manali by season, and the best time to visit Manali so that you can enjoy your holiday rain or shine. You can also plan your trip to Manali with The Tarzan Way. What’s in this blog Manali Weather: An Overview Manali in Summer (April–June) Manali in Monsoon (July–September) Manali in Winter (December–February) Manali in Spring (March–April) Best Time to Visit Manali What to Pack for Your Trip Things to Do in Manali by Season Suggested Itinerary for Manali FAQs Final Thoughts Manali Weather: An Overview At an altitude of nearly 2,050 meters, the weather in Manali can be dramatically different from season to season. Summertime may bring comfortable temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, but the high altitude makes the sun feel stronger. The monsoon usually starts at the end of June, with sudden showers. This unpredictable Manali weather means travelers must pack efficiently during the summer—they should carry light clothes for hot sunny days, a jacket for breezy evenings, and an umbrella for unexpected showers. Manali in Summer (April–June) Visiting Manali in summer is the most popular choice. Daytime temperatures are pleasant (15–25°C), perfect for an outdoor getaway. Humidity starts creeping in by May, but monsoon hasn’t fully arrived. Pros: Clear skies and mountain views. Ideal for trekking, paragliding, rafting, and camping. Cafes and markets are lively for food and shopping. Cons: Rain may arrive by late June. Rohtang Pass might still be closed in early April. Planning a road trip? Read: How to Plan the Perfect Delhi to Manali Road Trip. Manali in Monsoon (July–September) The monsoon season creates a verdant green paradise in Manali, but it also brings heavy rainfall that influences travel accessibility. Humidity will be high at levels between 75%–80% and landslides may occur frequently. Pros: Fewer travellers and hotel prices are discounted. Rivers and waterfalls could be flowing at their most spectacular. Great time for budget travelers. Cons: The roads may be prone to landslides and blockages. Outdoor adventure activities will be limited. Fog could obscure views. Want more? Check out our Manali Travel Guide for some safety tips during the monsoon season. Manali in Winter (December–February) In winter, Manali becomes an enchanting snow-laden land. The temperature fluctuates from -5°C during the night to 10°C in the day. Pros: Skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling at the Solang Valley. Fewer tourists, and appealing hotel offers. Charming sceneries with snow-clad mountains. Cons: Heavy snow can make the roads impassable. Limited connectivity to remote areas. Very cold and necessitate heavy winter wear. Manali in Spring (March–April) Spring brings moderate weather with highs of 18°C to 25°C, but evenings can still be chilly. Expect light showers and even snow at higher altitudes. Pros: Blooming orchards and colorful valleys. Off-season discounts on hotels. Ideal time for temple visits and easy treks. Cons: Sudden rain or snow at higher points. Some activities remain closed until summer. Best Time to Visit Manali The “best” time depends on your travel style: Summer (April–June): Adventure activities, family trips. Monsoon (July–September): Budget-friendly, lush scenery. Winter (December–February): Snow sports and cozy retreats. Spring (March–April): Flowering orchards, festivals, and fewer crowds. Planning a romantic escape? Check out our Manali Honeymoon Guide. What to Pack for Your Trip Summer: Light cottons, hats, sunscreen, trekking shoes, and a light jacket for evenings. Monsoon: Raincoat, umbrella, waterproof boots, quick-dry clothing. Winter: Heavy woolens, thermals, snow boots, gloves, moisturizers. Spring: Layered clothing, compact umbrella, light sweaters for evenings. Tip: Always carry a basic medical kit and reusable water bottles. Things to Do in Manali by Season Summer (April–June): Paragliding at Solang Valley, rafting in the Beas River, trekking (Hampta Pass, Bhrigu Lake), riverside camping. Monsoon (July–September): Temple visits (Hadimba, Vashisht), cozy cafes, local food, indoor relaxation. Winter (December–February): Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, zorbing, trekking (Chadar trek for experts). Spring (March–April): Nature walks, birdwatching, apple orchards, temple visits, cultural festivals. These activities highlight some of the best things to do in Manali no matter when you visit. Suggested Itinerary for Manali (4 Days) Day 1: Explore Mall Road and Hadimba Temple. Day 2: Adventure sports in Solang Valley. Day 3: Visit Naggar Castle, Vashisht hot springs, and Old Manali cafes. Day 4: Optional trip to Rohtang Pass (if open) or explore Kullu. This plan covers top places to visit in Manali, giving you a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. FAQs Q. Is Manali hot in summer? No, summers are cool with 15°C–25°C temperatures, perfect for sightseeing. Q. Does it rain in Manali in June? Yes, occasional showers start by late June as monsoon approaches. Q. Which month is best for Manali? April–June for adventure, December–February for snow. Q. Is May good for Manali? Yes, sunny days, pleasant evenings, and open adventure activities. Q. Does Manali get snow in summer? Not in town, but higher passes may still have snow till May. Q. Is Manali crowded in June? Yes, June sees peak tourist crowds before monsoon starts. Q. What to wear in Manali in May? Light cottons by day, a jacket for cool evenings. Q. Is Manali safe in July? July is monsoon season; heavy rains can disrupt travel. Q. Does it snow in Manali in December? Yes, December usually brings snowfall, especially after mid-month. Q. Is January a good time for Manali? Yes, but pack heavy woolens; expect snow and sub-zero nights. Q. How many days are enough for Manali? 3–4 days are enough for sightseeing, cafes, and adventure. Q. Is Rohtang open in June? Yes, Rohtang Pass usually
How to Travel Comfortably on a Budget in 2022
India is a country that is full of magic no matter what time of the year you get here! There is something in every corner that can amaze you even if the place you visit will be off-season. Everyone wants to travel in a luxurious manner but sometimes, we’ve got a limited budget. You need to remember that everyone’s definition of budget vacation will differ. A luxury trip might mean different things to different people, too. However, these pointers ought to be applicable whatever your spending limit and anticipated degree of luxury may be. Image by Taryn Elliott Here are a few things you can do when you travel to India to help you comfortably enjoy your time here while on a budget: Stay at an Airbnb or Homestay Plan a trip during the off-season Eat out less frequently Bargain! Bargain! Bargain! Hire, don’t buy Go to offbeat destinations Consult online travel experts 1. Stay at an Airbnb or Homestay Image by Business Traveller Staying in Airbnbs, homestays, or guesthouses run by locals in India is a great way to obtain the sense of a luxury vacation when you’re on a budget. These are comparatively cheaper than hotels but you’ll get to experience a similar stay. Plus, these places give a far more real experience, and you’ll probably have your own bathroom that isn’t shared with the owner and their family! Your host will also be able to teach you about the local way of life. 2. Plan a trip during the off-season It might be expensive to plan a luxury trip during public holidays and vacations. On the other side, traveling to places when they are off-season can save you a lot of cash. Choose a period of the year when there are fewer tourists if you want to have a luxurious holiday. It’s important to keep in mind that many tourists come to visit around the time of Indian holidays or festivities. So, try to get to these places at other times if possible. You’ll be able to take a more peaceful vacation and save money for a few frills. 3. Eat out less frequently Image by Alex Green It is possible to have a full meal for even 300 INR if you make your own meals. However, if you don’t plan it carefully, it could severely cut into your budget. Instead of eating out every night, it is worthwhile to prepare meals for yourself whenever you can in order to cut costs and take care of your health too. Additionally, you should stay away from tourist spots where items are overpriced owing to high demand; instead, stick to consuming street food meals near markets, which are typically less expensive overall. 4. Bargain! Bargain! Bargain! In India, practically every set price that is provided to a visitor is significantly higher than the going rate, which is arguably the most overdone travel advice. You can choose the wiser approach and begin negotiating at half price and proceed from that. Indians adore a good negotiator more than anything else! Real jewelry and gemstones should only be purchased if you don’t worry too much about their value since they are not certified. 5. Hire, don’t buy To get around town, hiring a car, a cycle, or a scooter can be more cost-effective than purchasing them. To have an enjoyable, and comfortable budget trip, make sure to return them to the sellers at the end of the trip in good condition. If you want to save even more money, you can also rent an apartment, a house, or a bed and breakfast rather than make a hotel reservation. When traveling with others, a villa may provide all the pleasures while staying within your means. 6. Go to offbeat destinations Image by Tour My India Look for new or offbeat destinations because the more well-known tourist destinations are often the most expensive to visit. The living expenses will be cheaper, there won’t be as many people there, and Airbnbs/homestays will be less expensive. In certain cases, you can have a more genuine experience in a place that receives fewer tourists since the locals are friendlier there. 7. Consult online travel experts A travel agency arranges everything for you, including hotel reservations and sightseeing stops, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday in luxury without worrying about accidents. In the end, everything is handled within a predetermined budget. Although many people believe that booking a trip online is a scam, a travel agency actually benefits customers in more ways than one. You’ll be shocked to find out how much money you can save with their help. Additionally, you can also try using some of the mobile apps for budgeting & handling money. Using mobile apps can be a great way to keep track of all your expenses & help you better manage your money. On a related note, you should definitely remember us the next time you plan a trip! Conclusion Irrespective of where you go, a magnificent travel adventure is really about the moments you remember. This is regardless of whether you like exploring new locations every day or prefer to take a peaceful getaway and take in the local beauty. There are some really cool budget destinations in India that you must visit! Make the best of not just the worldly delights a place has to offer, but also the soul of the place. You should always learn more about it from locals whether you travel solo, with your partner, or with your mates. For more such information stay tuned to www.thetarzanway.com
Perfect 7-Day Goa Itinerary Blissful North & South (2025)
Goa is justly famous for its beaches, but this former Portuguese colony is characterized by much more. It is also home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in India, Indo-Portuguese architecture, ancient temples, and a delightful multicultural heritage. Goa is also the only part of India with a significant European influence, a portion of Konkan soul, and a unique, rich, cultural tapestry. “The Perfect 7-Day Goa Itinerary” For first time Goa visitors differentiating between the party atmosphere of North Goa and the calm, lush, and lovely landscapes of South Goa can be a challenge. Why not get the best of both? Too lazy to plan your Goa trip? Try The Tarzan Way – it’s like having your own AI trip buddy that plans everything around your vibe. Their 7-day Goa plan is the perfect mix of chill beaches + cultural feels. This Goa week-long trip is intended to be a pack itinerary to sample the active culture of the region. The 7-day Goa itinerary is designed to be a time balance between relaxation pants and culture boots. For Day 1, Discover the Buzzing Beaches of North Goa On the first day in Goa, you should visit the beautiful beaches. The North Goa beaches are filled with activity. You may spend the holiday in the busy, tourist-loved beaches such as Vagator or Baga. If you want to relax, you can spend the holiday at Morjim beach. You can spend the day at the beach and enjoy swimming, sunbathing and water sports such as parasailing or banana rides. Pro Tip: You should get a scooter. You can visit Calangute, Baga, Anjuna and other North Goa beaches with your scooter. It is the most popular method of transport. Day 2: Check Out the Unique Attractions in Panjim The capital of Goa is Panjim or Panaji and the heart of the state. It offers a perfect blend of culture, shopping, and history. Spend the morning in the Fontainhas Latin Quarter and then visit the narrow streets and enjoy the beautiful, colorful Portuguese houses. In the evening, the tourists can enjoy the street market filled with local and unique merchandise, live music andstreet performances. Be sure not to overlook the various street food vendors situated in Panjim. To gain a true understanding of the area, you should sample some of the local Goan treats, particularly the chorizo pav and the fish cutlets. Day 3: Discover Goa’s Historical Landmarks Leave the third day for the history of Goa. Go to Old Goa (Velha Goa), a location that is a UNESCO World Heritage site and used to be the capital of the Portuguese Indies, and the most magnificent Old Goa. Go to the awe inspiring Basilica of Bom Jesus, where the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier rest, and to the imposing Sé Cathedral. Then, in the afternoon, you go back in the direction of Panjim in order to see historic forts, either Reis Magos or Fort Aguada, to appreciate their history and spectacular views of the sea. Pro Tip: In Old Goa, you should hire a licensed guide. The history of the monumental churches and colonial buildings is enhanced for a reasonable price by their narratives and knowledge. Day 4: Southern Voyage to Relax and Camp at Cola Beach Leaving behind the South’s bustle, Cola Beach is in the South Goa region. South Goa is cleaner, more fully, and more peaceful. Head to Cola Beach, for it is one of the understated marvels of Goa, famous for its lagoon. For the rest of the day, bask in the glory of nature, and at night, experience the wonder that is camping on the beach. Relax, the locals have improvised huts as well as deluxe tents for you to choose from. Pro Tip: Cola Beach. Camp on the beach. Relax, the locals have improvised huts as well as deluxe tents for you to choose from. Day 5: Gaze at the Horizon from Cabo De Rama Fort The route to Cabo De Rama is one of the oldest in Goa, and the most dramatic. It sits on a cliff above the beach, at the middle of Agonda and Cavelossim. It has one of the best views of the Arabian Sea. It is said that Lord Rama and Sita spent some of their exile in the fort, making it a rewarding route to the excellent views and rich history. Pro Tip: Make sure you wear proper shoes as you explore the rocky paths in the fort. There isn’t much in the way of shops, so bring your own water and snacks. Day 6: Scavenge the Streets of Palolem If you find the solitude of the South a little too much, you can head to Palolem beach. It is much livelier, and one of the most beautiful beaches in the South. It is well known for its crescent shape, and calm waters. The beach is lined with shops that sell clothes, souvenirs, and trinkets. It is a great place to practice your bargaining skills. Pro Tip: If you are looking for a unique Goa’s nightlife, you can check for a Silent Noise party at Palolem, or the nearby Patnem beach. You are given wireless headsets and can choose different DJs to listen to, making for a surreal party experience. Day 7: The Final Day of Leisure Your final day is to be spent doing anything you wish, be it revisiting your favorite beach, attending a Goan cooking class, getting an Ayurvedic massage, or simply hanging out at a beach shack with a book and a drink, enjoying all the final moments of your Goan paradise before heading to the airport. Pro Tip: For an authentic Goan meal, you may want to finish your trip at a local restaurant and enjoy some fish curry and rice or prawn vindaloo. Still Have Some Doubts in Your Mind “FAQs”: Q. What are the things to do if I have 1 day in Goa? A: Hit the buzzing beaches of North Goa —
How to reach Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
Amidst the mighty waters of the Bay of Bengal lies a gem covered in several beautiful islands. The enthralling and captivating beauty of the beaches and lagoons captures the attention of every tourist. Andaman in itself is a package for every fellow traveler, be it in nature or the activities it offers. Given the remote nature of the island, if you are wondering how to reach Andaman & Nicobar Islands, then we’ve got you covered. While flights are the most common means to reach the islands, there are various ships that ply from various port cities in India for a few days of the month. How to reach Andaman & Nicobar Islands Listed below are a number of ways how to reach the Andaman and Nicobar islands. How to reach Andaman by flight How to reach Andaman by sea How to reach Andaman by train How to reach Andaman by road 1. How to reach Andaman & Nicobar islands by air Image Source: Kevin Woblick via Unsplash The best mode of transportation to travel to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is by flight. Andaman has a very popular airport called Veer Savarkar named after a renowned freedom fighter. It is the only commercial airport located in Andaman. If you are traveling by air you will have to get down at the Veer Savarkar Airport in Port Blair. You can board a plane straight to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata, New Delhi, Bhubaneshwar, Bengaluru, and Visakhapatnam. These are the straight routes, in case you are boarding from elsewhere, you will have to take a hopping flight and reach Andaman. Most domestic flights like Indigo Airlines, Air India, Vistara, spice jet, and Go air are available to Andaman. A flight from Chennai will be the fastest route from India. The Flight might take around 2- 3 hours to reach your dream city. The Delhi route is the longest with 5 hours of travel. 2. How to reach Andaman & Nicobar by sea Image Source: Zhang via Unsplash Passenger ships from all the port cities of India sail to the beautiful islands of Andaman daily. Traveling by sea you can get down at Haddo wharf port in Andaman. Since it takes 3-4 days to reach the destination it is not a very suggested mode of transport to reach Andaman. The main ships that connect to Port Blair are MV Nancowry, MV Nicobar, MV Harshvardhana, MV Swaraj Dweep, and MV Akbar. The rates of tickets vary depending on the ships and class your board. The passengers can book their tickets from the respective ports in advance. 3. How to reach Andaman by train One cannot reach Andaman by rail since it is an island. However, the nearest railway station to Andaman is Chennai Central in Tamil Nadu. After reaching Chennai Central you can take a flight, or a ship to reach Andaman. 4. How to reach Andaman by road There are no roadways connecting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to other parts of India. You can opt for a flight or ship. However, you can travel around the Island by car. But still, a boat is a very common means of transport here. Intrastate travel in Andaman Image Source: Jeremy Bezanger via Unsplash Commuting within the islands comes with various options. On landing in Port Blair via flight or ship, there are various ways to get around the islands. These are some of the methods to ply within the state: By Ferry: Moving in and around the islands requires one to hop on a boat or ferry. It is also the most common method of hopping from one island to the other. There are both government and private ferries available. However, it is always wise to book your ferries in advance since the rush for ticket bookings is high especially during the peak tourist season. By Cabs: You can hire a cab/taxi and move from place to place. Though this is a convenient way of moving about, it is more expensive than other modes of transport. By autos: You can find plenty of tuk-tuks/autos plying around the islands. Hiring an auto is cheaper than cabs but it is not the most comfortable. The roads are not as smooth and make for a bumpy ride. By two-wheelers: One of the cheapest means of traveling within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is hiring two-wheelers like scooters or bikes. A certain level of expertise is required to drive around in two-wheelers since the roads are not well maintained. FAQs 1. How can I go to Andaman and Nicobar from Mumbai? You can take a flight or train from Mumbai to Chennai. Here, you can board a direct flight from Chennai International Airport to Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. 2. How we can go to Andaman and Nicobar islands? You can reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by either boarding a direct flight from Kolkatta or Chennai. Or you can reach the islands by boarding a ship from any one of the port cities in India. 3. How many airports are there in Andaman and Nicobar Islands? There are four airports in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The main airport is the Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. This is also the only International airport on the island. The other three airports are military airports. 4. Can we go to Andaman by ship? Yes, one can reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by ship. The waterways are connected to some port cities in India like Kolkatta, Chennai, and Vishakhapatnam. You can board a ship from one of these ports and reach the Haddo Wharf in Port Blair. 5. Do Andaman and Nicobar have railway stations? No, there is no railway station in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. However, the Indian Government approved the first railway line to be built on the island last year to connect Port Blair and
