Nicknamed “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is one of India’s most beautiful states. With lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine, Kerala has something to offer every traveller.
This comprehensive guide will take you through the top tourist destinations in Kerala and provide tips to plan the perfect holiday in this southern paradise.
Mesmerising Natural Beauty
Kerala has incredible natural beauty, from the Western Ghats mountains to the Arabian Sea beaches.
- Munnar: The winding roads surrounded by vast tea estates, with mist-covered hills in the background, make Munnar one of Kerala’s most popular hill stations. Visit the Eravikulam National Park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, or take a tea factory tour—don’t miss the lush green Tea Museum, which traces the history of tea plantations in the region.
- Wayanad: With lush green forests, spice plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife, Wayanad is an excellent option for nature lovers. Go trekking to the Chembra Peak or take a jeep safari at Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary to spot herds of elephants and other wildlife.
- Varkala: Known for its striking red cliffs contrasting against the blue sea, Varkala is fast emerging as a hotspot for beach tourism. Relax on the quiet beaches, enjoy water sports, or watch the stunning sunset views.
- Athirapally Falls: Often referred to as the Niagara Falls of India, Athirapally is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the country. Hearing the gushing waters amidst the tranquillity of the forest is an unforgettable experience.
In addition to the above key destinations, Bekal, Nelliyampathy, Silent Valley National Park, Periyar National Park, Thenmala, and many more places offer breathtaking natural vistas for tourists in Kerala.
Serene Backwaters
The interconnected rivers, lakes, canals, and lagoons known as backwaters are an iconic feature of Kerala. A backwater cruise allows visitors to experience rural life along the peaceful waterways.
- Alappuzha: Cruise through the lush green paddy fields and coconut groves in a traditional houseboat in Alleppey or Alappuzha, known as the “Venice of the East.” Take advantage of the famous Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race every year.
- Kumarakom: Regarded as one of the best backwater destinations, Kumarakom offers boating, fishing, birdwatching, and Ayurvedic spa options, in addition to houseboat cruises. Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and the bay to watch spectacular sunsets.
- Kollam: For a more offbeat backwater experience, visit Kollam. Cruise through the serene Ashtamudi Lake, observe Chinese fishing nets and visit lush cashew plantations.
- Kozhikode: Take a day cruise in Beypore, Kozhikode, to float along the Chaliyar River and immerse yourself in village life. Watch skilled workers build the famous Beypore Uru wooden ships.
Exploring this serene beauty is often part of well-curated Kerala tour packages, which provide seamless experiences, including houseboat stays, village tours, and sunset cruises.
Rejuvenating Ayurveda
Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicinal practice. The best Ayurvedic centres offer rejuvenating treatments.
Abhyangam Massage, using herbal oils, boosts blood circulation and relieves muscle pain. The synchronised four-hand massage is especially popular.
Shirodhara involves gently pouring medicated oil over the forehead to calm the mind and relieve headaches, insomnia, anxiety, etc.
Panchakarma is an intensive detox therapy using a combination of oil massages, heat treatments, and other methods to remove toxins from the body.
Some renowned Ayurvedic centres are Kottakal Arya Vaidya Sala, Aura Ayurveda & Spa Resort, and Nattika Beach Ayurvedic Resort.
Yoga Retreats
Kerala offers some spectacular yoga retreats that combine yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda to relax the body and calm the mind.
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Retreat on the Neyyar Dam offers intensive yoga teacher training programs and drop-in classes for all levels. Its serene ambience and vegetarian diet make it an ideal spiritual getaway.
Other leading yoga ashrams and retreats include Amritapuri Ashram, Yogamaya Yoga Ashram, Ananda Lakshmi Ayurveda Retreat, and more.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
With varied landscapes, Kerala has rich and diverse flora and fauna.
Explore the forests and wildlife sanctuaries to spot some exotic species.
- Periyar National Park: Take a guided walking tour or bamboo rafting inside the park to observe herds of elephants, Indian bison, tigers, and other animals in their natural habitat amidst splendid scenery.
- Eravikulam National Park: Located in Munnar, this park has the largest population of endangered Nilgiri Tahr, or mountain goats, 130 species of birds, and rare flora.
- Silent Valley National Park: Considered one of the best rainforests with over 1000 flowering plant species and rare wildlife, Silent Valley offers trekking and jeep safari tours.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, and Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary are other reserves protecting Kerala’s rich biodiversity.
Adventure Activities
Kerala offers plenty of options for adventure enthusiasts as well.
- Trekking: Go on guided treks to rugged mountain ranges like Chembra Peak, Agastyakoodam Peak, and Meesapulimala Peak, as well as easy treks suitable for beginners.
- Paragliding: Soar high above the tea estates and valleys of Munnar and Vagamon with experienced pilots.
- Mountain Biking: Ride through scenic trails in Munnar and Wayanad on mountain bikes or bicycles that are available for rent.
- Houseboat Cruising: Sail through the mesmerising backwaters and lakes overnight on a traditional houseboat, enjoying delicious Keralite cuisine.
Rich Cultural Heritage
With a history of thousands of years, Kerala has a distinct culture, evident in its art forms, festivals, and cuisine.
- Kathakali: This traditional dance drama, with elaborate costumes, masks, and makeup, brings Hindu epics and myths to life. Watch live performances at cultural centres in Kochi, Munnar, and Thekkady to admire this unique art form.
- Theyyam: From October to May, witness the vibrant and spectacular theyyam ritual dances typically held at Hindu temples in Northern Kerala.
- Onam Festivities: Experience the carnival atmosphere during Onam, Kerala’s biggest festival, which is celebrated for 10 days in August/September. Folk performances, elephant processions, flower carpets, and feasts make it unforgettable.
- Fort Kochi: Take a walking tour around Fort Kochi to explore remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture and soak in the multicultural vibe.
- Temple Festivals: Kerala has many prominent temples that wildly celebrate annual festivals. Witness caparisoned elephants, fireworks, and elaborate rituals during the Thrissur Pooram, Chettikulangara Bharani, and Guruvayoor festivals.
Mouthwatering Cuisine
Foodies will surely enjoy Kerala’s diverse culinary offerings, including flavorful curries, sweet delicacies, and seafood specialities.
- Sadhya: An elaborate vegetarian feast on a banana leaf is a must-try. Typically eaten with hands, the multi-course meal includes various curries and condiments.
- Appam with Stew: The soft bowl-shaped rice pancake perfectly complements the tasty vegetable or lamb stew.
- Filter Coffee: This strong decoction coffee sweetened with jaggery and milk is the perfect finish to any meal.
Best Time To Visit
Kerala enjoys a moderate equatorial climate, but the best time to visit differs across destinations.
Munnar and Northern Kerala are pleasant from August to May, while the coasts and backwaters of Kochi and Kovalam are better from October to February.
The monsoons from June to August bring Intense rainfall, and the potential for landslides in hilly areas, but greenery and Ayurveda packages are abundant.
Summers are hot and humid. Avoid visiting inland during April-May unless necessary.
Plan your itinerary wisely, accounting for regional weather patterns, festivals, and specific interests when deciding when to visit.
Getting There
Here’s how you can conveniently reach Kerala by air, train, or road, ensuring a smooth start to your journey in God’s Own Country.
- By Air: Kochi International Airport, Kozhikode Airport, and Thiruvananthapuram Airport are well connected to major Indian cities and abroad. You can pre-book cabs or take trains to your destination.
- By Train: Ernakulam Junction, Thiruvananthapuram Central, and Kozhikode Railway Station are major railway stations connected across India.
- By Road: A network of national and state highways connects Kerala’s major tourist spots.
Conclusion
With its natural beauty, rejuvenating wellness treatments, rich cultural history, and warm hospitality, Kerala is a must-visit destination in India that promises an unforgettable holiday.
From serene backwaters to spice and tea plantations, Kerala has something to delight your senses. Experience the tranquil magic of God’s Own Country for yourself.
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