Is it time to swap the grey city haze for a veil of cardamom mist, where the only thing breaking the silence is the soft leap of a Malabar giant squirrel? If so, you're probably planning a trip to Gavi.

Hidden deep within the Western Ghats, Gavi is the kind of place that gently pulls you out of your routine and back into nature’s rhythm. For many travellers from Chennai and Bangalore, this forest retreat feels worlds away from traffic-clogged mornings and screen-filled nights.

That said, planning a trip here isn’t as simple as booking a hotel and showing up. Gavi is a protected forest area, which means access is regulated, experiences are curated, and what’s included in your package really matters.

In this guide, we'll break down what you get and what you don’t when you book a Gavi package from Chennai and Bangalore.

The Journey from the City to the Wild

When you book a package from Chennai or Bangalore, the first thing to understand is the logistics. Gavi is about 500 km from Bangalore and roughly 607 km from Chennai.

Most organized tours from Bangalore head down via Salem and Dindigul, entering Kerala through the scenic Kumily check-post. Chennai travellers often take the overnight train to Kottayam or Madurai before hopping into a vehicle. As Gavi is an eco-sensitive zone, private vehicles are often restricted.

Booking Gavi Package With Exoticamp

Before we dive into the deets, let’s walk you through the Gavi-based trips Exoticamp offers. Our offerings are versatile, covering multiple durations from day trips to multiday experiences.

On Exoticamp, you’ll see a mix of camping, guided walks, jungle safaris, and activities that showcase Gavi’s best bits. These are often bundled with travel from major cities like Chennai and Bangalore (especially in multiday trips).

Here’s a snapshot of the kinds of trips you’ll find on the Exoticamp Explore page:

• 0N/1D -This Gavi package is a quick nature dash for those on tight schedules. This usually involves an early morning Jeep safari through the forest, a visit to the Gavi Lake, and a return by sunset.
• 1N/2D -It's a classic overnight forest escape. This Gavi package is the "sweet spot" for many city dwellers. You get to experience the forest at night and wake up to the sound of birds rather than car horns.
• 2N/3D- This Gavi package deep dives into camping, jeep safaris, trekking, and more. This duration allows you to explore the fringes of Gavi, including hidden waterfalls and viewpoints that day-trippers never see.

Packages vary seasonally, and some include combinational trips with Thekkady and Vagamon if you want an even richer Kerala experience.

Ready to swap your screen for some greenery? Click here to browse Exoticamp’s latest Gavi packages and lock in your spot before the seats fill up!

What’s Included in Gavi Packages

Most Gavi packages from Chennai and Bangalore are designed to be semi-inclusive. As Gavi is an eco-tourism zone managed largely by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC), the focus is on sustainability rather than glitz. However, that doesn't mean you'll be roughing it!

When you book a Gavi package, you’re essentially buying peace of mind. Here is a friendly breakdown of the typical inclusions:

Forest Entry Permits

This is perhaps the most valuable inclusion. The KFDC manages Gavi, so there is a strict cap on the number of vehicles allowed inside each day. 

Most packages include the necessary entry fees and the coordination of permits, saving you from the headache of morning queues or being turned away at the gate.

Local Transport (The Safari Experience)

Standard cars are often not allowed deep into certain zones of Gavi due to the rugged terrain. Most packages provide 4x4 jeep safaris from Kumily or Thekkady. 

These rugged vehicles are perfect for navigating the forest roads, and the drivers are often local experts who know exactly where a leopard might be lounging or which trees are currently hosting rare birds.

Tented Accommodation

The stay is usually in high-quality weather-proof tents. These aren't your basic pitch-it-yourself tents. They are set up for you, often with comfortable bedding, allowing you to sleep under the stars while still feeling snug and secure.

Guided Activities

You aren't just left to wander (which would be quite dangerous!). A comprehensive Gavi package typically includes:

• Trekking: Soft treks through cardamom plantations and shola forests guided by local naturalists.
• Boating: A serene paddle in the Gavi Lake, surrounded by towering trees.
• Visit to the Sabarimala Viewpoint: A spot that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the deep valleys and the famous shrine in the distance.
• Visit the Cardamom Factory: You can see how the world’s finest spices are processed.

Meals with a Local Flavour

Most Gavi eco-tourism packages include a traditional Kerala lunch. Expect a delicious spread served on a banana leaf—simple, organic, and incredibly satisfying after a morning of trekking. Breakfast and evening tea are also frequently part of the deal.

What's Not Included in Gavi Packages?

To keep things transparent and friendly, it’s important to know what you’ll need to handle yourself.

Long-Distance Travel to the Starting Point

While many people search for "Gavi packages from Bangalore," most tour operators actually start their services from Thekkady or Kumily. 

You will likely need to arrange your own transport (bus, train, or private car) from Chennai or Bangalore to the Thekkady area. Once you reach the base camp, the package logistics kick in.

Personal Expenses and Snacks

The forest doesn't have convenience stores. If you want specific snacks, energy drinks, or personal hygiene items, you must bring them with you. Packages cover the main meals, but anything extra is on you.

Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation

While the guides are highly trained in safety, Gavi is a remote wilderness. Most standard packages do not include comprehensive travel insurance. It is always a good idea to have your own policy that covers outdoor activities.

A Few Things You Need to Know Before You Go

Since you're heading into a tropical forest, a little preparation goes a long way:

• Bright reds and yellows are great for Instagram, but they can startle wildlife. Opt for greens, browns, and greys.
• Especially if you visit during or after the monsoons, Gavi’s leeches will want to get to know you. Make sure to carry leech socks. Even salt or eucalyptus oil can protect against them. 
• Be prepared for a very patchy (or zero) mobile network. Let your family know you’ll be off the grid for a couple of days.  

Ready to Trade the Concrete Jungle for the Real One?

Gavi is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve returned to your office desk. It’s the memory of the mist rolling over the lake, the taste of a hot tea in the middle of a forest, and the thrill of seeing a wild elephant in its natural home.

Take the guesswork out of your trip. Pick the right Gavi package so you can stop planning and start experiencing.

Experience the magic of the wild for yourself! Explore Gavi Packages on Exoticamp and book your escape from the city today.