While primarily known as a destination for those who want to indulge in luxury houseboat cruises through its backwater canals, Kerala is also home to a number of must-see land-based attractions. After all, the region is widely regarded for its stunning beaches that range from action-packed to calm and serene. As such, those taking extended tours in India with a custom tour provider may want to ask about extending their journeys to include stops at area beaches.

One of the region's hidden gems is Varkala Beach, which offers stunning views from a nearby cliff as well as relative seclusion when compared to Asia's other top beach and resort destinations. Varkala – while relatively quiet by the standards of many visitors – comes alive at certain times of the day and year. For example, it's renowned for its sunsets ripe with dramatic hues.

Marari Beach is another staple of the Kerala region. Once a relatively quiet fishing village, the beach still retains much of its early charm. The beaches do present their share of excitement, from occasional snake boat races to nearby attractions such as bird sanctuaries and of course access to the nearby canals.

Due to the influx of tourists to the region in recent years, travellers now have a wider variety of options than ever when it comes to choosing how they spend their time in Kerala and other nearby cities. For example, boutique hotels, as well as fashion and antique stores are common, meaning that after visitors enjoy their luxury rides through the backwaters of Kerala, they can relax with some much-needed retail shopping.

However, since beach vacations to Asia largely depend on the weather, interested travellers may want to consult with a custom tour provider on the best time to plan their excursion.

While taking a cruise closer to home can pass as a vacation for many, for a truly once-in-a-lifetime journey, travellers may want to think about broadening their horizons on more adventurous tours in India. For instance, Kerala may be a top option for those looking to embark on longer vacations to Asia that are sure to get their friends and family talking.

Known as one of the top travel destinations in the country, Kerala has been widely lauded by the world's top travel publications for its scenic beauty and vicinity to other must-see Indian attractions. National Geographic Traveler, for instance, named the destination as one of its "10 Earthly Paradises" and one of its "100 Great Trips for the 21st Century."

Lying between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea in southwestern India, Kerala's main attraction may be its famous network of rivers and canals, which weave through majestic coconut groves, under waving palm trees and past hidden enclaves of sandy beach. All the while, visitors can take comfort in the modern amenities provided by some of the more exclusive travel options in the area – a luxury houseboat.

These vessels often come equipped with top-notch services such as complimentary drinks and dining that can be enjoyed from a relaxing sundeck, decorative benches or from the comfort of a five-star room. Travel experts recommend that visitors indulge in the Toddy – a soft liquor made from coconut that is one of the region's culinary delights. On the way, travellers have a chance to spot India's wildlife in its natural habitat, watch as villagers fish or paddle small canoes and even take journeys off of the boat on nearby land. 

In addition to stopping at Kerala, visitors can also spend some time in nearby Fort Cochin, where they can learn about India's unique cultural past. To take a backwater cruise on a luxury houseboat, individuals who are interested in a first-class vacation should talk to a custom travel provider about the best available travel packages.

While most of the country is known for its bustling city streets and crowds of locals, Cochin offers visitors on vacations in India a chance to take a step back and relax while seeing sights they wouldn't find elsewhere. Known for its authentic monuments, dizzying array of museums, unique history and natural attractions, Cochin may be the one city in India that truly has it all.

Cochin – which was also known as Kochi – borders the Arabian Sea on India's west coast. Once predominantly a fishing village, Cochin retains much of the trappings of its past. The locals can be seen fishing with great nets, a skill they learned from Chinese merchants centuries ago and that continues to this day.

Other cultural influences can also be observed. For example, traditional churches stand beside mosques and synagogues, and Portuguese and British houses built by traders can be seen alongside more traditional constructions.

For those who want to visit the religious sites in Cochin, St. Francis Church – which is located in the city's famed Fort Kochi district – offers visitors the ability to see this synthesis of the Western and Eastern worlds. Like the mosques and synagogues nearby, individuals who want to enter this religious site need to first remove their shoes, even though it's currently an Anglican Church.

Santa Cruz Basilica is also a must-see according to many travellers. Frommer's says that the interiors are worth a look for their ornate stained glass pictures, while it notes that the Paradesi Synagogue may offer travellers of the Jewish faith a reminder of home.

As a result, individuals looking for extended vacations to Asia may want to speak to a custom tour provider about the best routes around India. By planning accordingly, travellers can choose the best route for visiting Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Cochin and all the other destinations that intrigue them without wasting precious travel time.