7 Amazing Places to Visit in Kerala
places to visit in kerala
Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is a stunning state located in the southern part of India. With its lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Kerala offers a truly remarkable travel experience. In this blog, we’ll highlight seven amazing places that you should consider visiting during your trip to Kerala.
Summary
Kerala is a mesmerizing destination where the morning unveils misty landscapes and magical vistas. Affectionately known as the “God’s Own Country,” it captivates visitors with tranquil backwaters and serene surroundings. Renowned as the “Spice Capital of India,” evenings bid farewell with the melodious tunes of nature. Such is the captivating charm of Kerala!
Let your wanderlust roam free and embark on a journey to this diverse land. With a plethora of destinations to explore, Kerala promises to create unforgettable memories. If you’re struggling to decide where to go, here’s a curated list of tourist spots that guarantee a journey filled with adventure and joy.
7 Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is famous for its breathtaking backwaters and houseboat cruises. This picturesque town is crisscrossed by a network of canals, lakes, and rivers, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and peaceful vacation.
It is renowned for its stunning backwaters, which are a labyrinth of interconnected canals, lakes, and rivers. The backwaters offer a unique opportunity to experience the laid-back lifestyle of the region while cruising on traditional houseboats.
How to reach: Alleppey is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 83 kilometers away.
Nearby places: While in Alleppey, you can visit the Krishnapuram Palace, Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, and the Marari Beach.
What you can do: Take a houseboat cruise along the backwaters, visit traditional coir-making villages, explore the Punnamada Lake, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
Munnar
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a stunning hill station known for its vast tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool climate. It is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, tea estates, and the Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every 12 years.
How to reach: Munnar is accessible by road from major cities like Kochi and Madurai. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 110 kilometers away.
Nearby places: While in Munnar, you can visit the Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake, and the Tata Tea Museum.
What you can do: Explore the tea plantations, go for a trek in the Western Ghats, visit the Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and enjoy the mesmerizing waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
Kovalam
Kovalam is a famous beach destination known for its crescent-shaped beaches, swaying coconut palms, and laid-back atmosphere.
It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, which are divided into three sections: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach.
How to reach: Kovalam is well-connected by road and is approximately 16 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala.
Nearby places: While in Kovalam, you can visit the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, the Lighthouse Beach, and the Parasurama Temple.
What you can do: Relax on the beaches, indulge in water sports activities like surfing, swimming, and sunbathing, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and beach shacks.
Thekkady
Thekkady is a popular destination nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats and is home to the famous Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. It is famous for its rich biodiversity, particularly the Periyar National Park, which is home to various species of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and sambar deer.
How to reach: Thekkady is well-connected by road from major cities like Kochi and Madurai. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 190 kilometers away.
Nearby places: While in Thekkady, you can visit the Periyar National Park, Periyar Tiger Trail, Mullaperiyar Dam, and the Gavi Eco Tourism Center.
What you can do: Go for a boat safari in the Periyar Lake, take a guided nature walk through the national park, visit spice plantations, and indulge in bamboo rafting and other adventure activities.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a picturesque village situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, renowned for its beautiful backwaters and bird sanctuary. It is famous for its serene backwaters, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and the Vembanad Lake, which is one of the largest wetland ecosystems in India.
How to reach: Kumarakom is well-connected by road and is approximately 16 kilometers from Kottayam town. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 90 kilometers away.
Nearby places: While in Kumarakom, you can visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, the Vembanad Lake, and the Pathiramanal Island.
What you can do: Enjoy a houseboat cruise on the backwaters, go birdwatching in the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, visit the Pathiramanal Island, and indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and massages.
Kochi (Cochin)
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a cosmopolitan city with a rich historical past and a blend of cultural influences. It is famous for its colonial-era architecture, the Chinese fishing nets, the Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish synagogue, and the vibrant spice markets.
How to reach: Kochi is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Cochin International Airport is located within the city limits.
Nearby places: While in Kochi, you can visit Fort Kochi, the Mattancherry Palace, the Paradesi Synagogue, the Cherai Beach, and the Bolghatty Palace.
What you can do: Explore the historic Fort Kochi area, witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets, visit the Paradesi Synagogue and the Dutch Palace, indulge in a Kathakali dance performance, and shop for spices and handicrafts.
Wayanad
Wayanad is a stunning hill station located in the Western Ghats, known for its lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage. It is famous for its picturesque beauty, ancient caves, and rich tribal culture. It is also known for its wildlife sanctuaries, including the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary.
How to reach: Wayanad is well-connected by road from major cities like Kochi and Bangalore. The nearest airport is the Calicut International Airport, which is approximately 100 kilometers away.
Nearby places: While in Wayanad, you can visit the Edakkal Caves, the Kuruva Island, the Chembra Peak, and the Meenmutty Falls.
What you can do: Explore the ancient Edakkal Caves, go for a trek in the Western Ghats, visit the Kuruva Island for bamboo rafting, and indulge in cultural activities like watching traditional dance performances and handicraft making.
These seven places to visit in Kerala offer a diverse range of experiences, from serene backwaters and pristine beaches to lush green hills and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Kerala has something to offer everyone. So, plan your trip and get ready to explore the captivating beauty of “God’s Own Country.”
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is typically between September and March when the weather is pleasant and dry. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to August, can make travel challenging due to heavy rains and occasional flooding.
2. How can I get around Kerala?
Kerala has a well-developed transportation system. You can travel by air to reach major cities like Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, and then use trains, buses, taxis, or rental cars to explore different destinations within the state. Hiring a private car with a driver is also a convenient option for longer journeys.
3. Is it safe to travel to Kerala?
Yes, Kerala is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any travel, it’s advisable to exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and follow basic safety precautions.
4. What are some popular local dishes to try in Kerala?
Kerala is known for its delicious and flavorful cuisine. Some popular local dishes to try include Kerala fish curry, puttu (steamed rice cake), idli (steamed rice cake), dosa (fermented crepe), and various preparations with coconut and spices.
5. Can I go on a houseboat cruise in Kerala if I’m traveling alone?
Yes, you can definitely go on a houseboat cruise in Kerala even if you’re traveling alone. Many houseboat operators offer single occupancy options or allow you to join a shared cruise with other travelers.
Also Read:
A Journey Through the 7 Best Places to Visit in Pune
Explore the Best Places to Visit in India In 2024
References:
https://www.keralatourism.org/
https://www.incredibleindia.org/content/incredible-india-v2/en.html
