Colorful customs, remarkable traditions, rich culture, exotic landscape, art and crafts, finger-licking food etc. are all important features of the popular Kerala state. One of the best destinations in India, it is termed as ‘God’s Own Country’. The state offers an ideal recipe of a memorable vacation, be it with your family or your partner.
Ancient temples, pristine beaches, placid backwaters, energetic festivals, mesmerizing hill stations, and therapeutic Ayurveda allure travelers from all across the globe. The state has to offer something to people with varied interests. On the West, state has the Arabian Sea and on the East, it has the Western Ghats. 44 rivers traverse through the land of Kerala. This tropical paradise is definitely worth a visit.
If you are planning a holiday in India, here is a comprehensive guide for your convenience:
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kerala depends on where you want to go and what to you want to do. The state has something to offer all through the year to its visitors. This tropical state is hot during most of the time of the year but two monsoon spots of rain with heavy rainfall make the place worthy of a visit anytime. However, the best time to visit Kerala is between the months of December and March, when the weather is cool and dry. This is the peak tourist season. You can indulge in a number of outdoor activities along with sightseeing.
In case you do not like sun and sweating avoid visiting Kerala in April and May as the weather is humid and hot. However, you might get good discounts on bookings. Planning a vacation between May and November during the monsoon rains would be ideal if you are planning a vacation filled with Ayurveda therapies. The effect is best at this time. The rains also make the place look even more lush and bountiful.
How to reach
Located in the south-western corner of India, Kerala state is easily accessible through all modes of transportation. Here is how to reach Kerala:
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By Air:
There are 2 international airports in Kerala- Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi. Kozhikode airport is the domestic airport with a strategic location. Both public and private airlines offer a connectivity between these airports and the other important destinations of India as well as abroad.
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By Train:
Cities and towns in Kerala enjoy good connectivity with other destinations of the country. There are around 200 railway stations in Kerala. There are direct trains from these stations to important cities of India such as Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata and so on.
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By Road:
The south Indian state of Kerala is well-connected to other parts of the country. Visitors can use National Highways 17, 47 and 49 to come to this state. Neighboring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are also connected to the state through a good network of roads.
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By Sea:
Regular ships are available from Lakshadweep Island to Kochi. Backwaters of Kerala is another means of transport in the state.
Accommodation
Kerala receives domestic as well as foreign travelers every year in huge numbers. There are family vacationers, animal enthusiasts, honeymooning couples, business guests, nature lovers and so on. The innumerable hotels in Kerala offer a memorable stay to all kinds of tourists as per their budget. There are 5-star hotels, deluxe hotels, economy hotels and homestays also.
Kerala hotels can be booked as per one’s interest such as backwater resorts, beach resorts, luxury hotels, wildlife lodges, Ayurveda and spa resorts. Treehouses and houseboats are two of the exotic accommodation options in Kerala offering an unforgettable stay amid modern comforts. Take a pick as per your liking and pocket size.
Choose your destination
The natural beauty of Kerala is quite enchanting. The state has backwaters, waterfalls, forests, backwaters and beaches, along with verdant ambiance. Some of the natural wonders of Kerala are:
Backwaters in Kerala: Truly Captivating
Internationally-renowned, backwaters of Kerala were originally a mode of transportation, but are now one of Kerala’s most popular attractions. Just hop into a houseboat, locally known as Ketuvallam, for cruising on these placid water channels. Houseboat tours including sightseeing, bird watching, fishing and other interesting activities. Here are some of the popular backwater destinations in Kerala:
- Alleppey backwaters: Termed as the ‘Venice of south’, Alleppey backwaters has abundant natural beauty. This wonderful backwater has narrow canals with palm grooves and lush landscape. Backwater in Alleppey or Alappuzha backwater is not to be missed due to its memorable experiences. It mostly is a part of Kerala tours.
- Kumarakom backwaters: The backwaters in Kumarakom are enveloped by copious vegetation and tall trees, making the place look dream-like. Coconut groves, thick forests, village, and verdant hills are some of the attractions of houseboat ride here. This journey is surely going to be a lifetime experience.
- Kollam Backwaters: Kollam backwaters are known to be one of the ancient trade centers of Kerala. This backwater leads you to the popular Ashthamudi Lake, enveloped by expansive vegetable. The vistas are wonderful here. The longest backwater cruise in Kerala is between Kollam to Alleppey, which is of around 8 hours. Savor wonderful views of riverbanks and exotic flora and fauna.
- Kochi Backwaters: Lovingly known as the ‘Queen of Arabian Sea’, Kochi is known to be owning some of the most wonderful backwaters sights in Kerala. Known to be as tranquil and charming as the backwaters of Alleppey and Trivandrum, the backwaters of Kochi mainly lie within the city and spread over places like Bolgatty Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry, Fort Kochi etc.
- Trivandrum Backwaters: A wonderful combination of close-knit canals and picturesque rivers, Trivandrum backwaters are quite eye-catching. These backwaters also hold a lot of importance for the state. One of its most popular highlights is the placid Vembanad Lake, covering an area of 200 square km. It finally flows into the Arabian Sea at the Cochin port. Try your hand at canoeing at the confluence of River Killi and River Karamana.
Beaches in Kerala: Interesting assortment of shorelines
Enveloped by attractive shops, coconut palms and beach shacks, the sun-kissed beaches of Kerala have all that takes to mesmerize its visitors. The peaceful seashores of Kerala run along the Arabian Sea, extending along the cliffs. It is enclosed by guesthouses, shops, shacks, restaurants, hotels and vegetation. Kerala beaches can be visited all around the year. You can opt for a stay in beach resorts. These are some of the popular beaches of Kerala:
- Marari Beach: Around 60 km from Kochi, and just 11 km from the popular Alleppey backwaters, Marari beach is one of the most popular beaches in Kerala. The beach has immense natural beauty and lies close to the fishing village of Mararikulam. Visit the place any time during the day and see the locals out here catching a fish. Unwind yourself and visit the nearby village.
- Varkala beach: Located at a distance of just 50 km Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala’s capital, Varkala beach is an ideal beach for those who wish to stay away from the regular hustle-bustle. One of the highlights of this beach is the long cliff running along the seashore, making a stunning sight. The beach offers memorable sunset views. Do visit the 2000-year-old temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Bekal Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in Kerala, Bekal beach is an exotic seashore. It borders the very popular Bekal fort- one of the oldest and the most well-preserved forts in Kerala. Take a leisure walk on this lovely beach, blessed with untouched scenic beauty. The views from the top of the fort are enchanting.
- Kovalam beach: Famed for being one of the best attractions in Kerala, Kovalam beach is a crescent-shaped beach, comprising of three beaches. This is an internationally popular seashore that is visited by foreign tourists in huge numbers. Just lie down and enjoy sunbathing. If you love waters, the sea is ideal for swimming. There are a number of Ayurveda resorts near the beach.
- Payyambalam Beach: Boasting of tranquil landscape and stunning sights, Payyambalam beach in Kannur town is another beautiful beach. A huge statue of mother and child catches your attention. Take a walk in the landscaped garden near the beach. The tranquil atmosphere is ideal for relaxing.
Ayurveda in Kerala: Invigorate amid Mother Nature
Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, the science of holistic wellness, founded over 5000 years ago. This makes it one of the most popular destinations for Ayurveda therapies around the world. There are a number of Ayurveda therapy centers and Ayurveda resorts in Kerala, offering a vast array of therapies, treatments and massages. Expert masseurs and trained therapists offer the best therapies for bringing harmony between mind, body and soul.
The best time to avail the maximum benefits of an Ayurveda treatment in Kerala is during the monsoon season. During the humid climate, there is an abundance of herbs and medicinal plants. It is also the ideal time for rejuvenating all the senses and getting rid of several ailments. Therapies and treatments are available for weight management, skin problems, heart ailments, sickness related to hair, nervous system, obesity, leukemia, and much more.
Following are some of the top-most Kerala Ayurveda Resorts:
Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort: The first Ayurveda resort in the world, Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort is placed on the top of a hill. The resort is positioned close to the popular Kovalam beach and lies amid lush green patches.
Traditional Ayurveda therapies are often clubbed with Yoga and Meditation sessions. The beach setting becomes an added bonus and adds to the charm of the place. A nutritional diet is served to the guests as per their needs.
Kairali Ayurvedic Health Village: Covering a lush space of 50 acres in the Palakkad district, Kairali Ayurvedic Health Village is a wonderland of Ayurveda wholesome wellness. Admire the sight of streams flowing along with the resort’s cottages, equipped with facilities. The property also has an organic resort whose produce is used in the preparation of vegetarian meals.
Alcohol is not served on the resort’s premises so that the patients or the guests can get treated with natural and organic procedures. The resort plays host to a huge number of foreign visitors also.
Kalari Kovilakom Ayurveda Resort: A wonderful combination of ancient heritage and Ayurveda facilities, Kalari Kovilakom Ayurvedic resort was originally the palace of the ancient Vengunad Kingdom in Kerala. It was converted into an Ayurveda retreat by CGH Group.
This is an ideal place to get completely rejuvenated away from the hustle-bustle of city life. There is no television here. Leather, alcohol, footwear and meat are not allowed inside this serene resort. The therapists here aim to offer holistic wellness with Ayurveda treatment combining them with yoga and meditation, personalized therapies and other healing procedures. Get rid of your stress here.
Ayurveda Yoga Villa: Offering a peaceful ambiance and verdant surroundings, Ayurveda Yoga Villa is located in the Wayanad district, blessed by abundant scenery. This resort is an amazing combination of Yoga session, meditation practice, Ayurvedic therapies, personalized care as per one’s need and proper training in Kalari marital arts. The property has its own herbal garden as well as a souvenir shop.
Hill Stations in Kerala – The charming Munnar
Hill stations of Kerala, primarily Munnar is the other highlight of the Kerala tour. Placed in the eastern terrain of the state, Munnar lies at an altitude of 1600 m above sea level. The place has several allures for its visitors. Some of the must-visit places in Munnar are Tea Museum, Chinnakanal waterfalls, Mattupetty Dam and Lake, Eravikulam National Park, and the Anamudi Peak.
Do not miss taking a leisure walk in the tea plantations of Munnar. Along with leisure vacationers, the place also offers opportunities for adventure lovers. Trekking enthusiasts can trek up the Anamudi peak, the highest peak in South India. Paragliding and rock climbing are other popular activities here.
Waterfalls in Kerala: A spectacular sight
Athirapally waterfalls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Kerala with picturesque surroundings, exotic wildlife and mesmerizing shrubbery. The fall originates from the Chalakudy River in Thrissur district where it gushes in 3 streams running together covering the mountainous region for 1 kilometer. This waterfall can be visited at any time of the year.
Other wonderful waterfalls in Kerala are Vazhachal waterfalls 5 km from Athirapally, Meenmutty waterfalls in Wayanad, Thusharagiri waterfalls 50 km away from Kozhikode Station, and Thommankuthu waterfall 20 km from Thodupuzha.
Temples in Kerala: Seeking the Lord’s blessings
- Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple: Kerala has been home to people of various religions to Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism etc. Thus, it has various temples, mosques and churches. These religious sites are visited by a decent number of devotees in huge numbers. One such very popular temple of Kerala is Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple, located amid Trivandrum city. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu whose idol is in reclining form.
- Sri Krishna Temple, Guruvayoor: Quite popular amid followers of Hinduism, Sri Krishna temple in Guruvayoor is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple also plays host to a number of weddings also. One of the highlights here is the Dwaja Sthambham or Lord’s statue. This 33.5 m high status is gold plated. During the evening Pooja ceremony, it is decorated with multi-tiered oil lamps.
- Sabarimala Sastha: Lying amid the Western Ghats, Sabarimala Sastha temple is in Pathanamthitta district. It receives as many as 50 million devotees each year. The temple is open only during some days. Devotees in crazy numbers visit Sabarimala at the time of the 41- day of Mandala Pooja and Makara Sankranthi.
Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala: Eco-tourism Activities in Periyar
Kerala has been blessed with thick jungles and plantation, and thus it is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna. Visit Thekkady, home to Periyar National Park, one of the most popular national parks in south India. This lush park is open all throughout the year bringing in nature lovers and animal enthusiasts from all across the globe. The park is also known for offering opportunities for a number of eco-tourism activities. Visitors can enjoy wildlife safaris through elephant rides and boat safaris.
Some of the other popular wildlife reserves in Kerala are Aralam Sanctuary Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Parambikulam Sanctuary, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
So you are interested in planning a tour to Kerala? Check-out our tastefully crafted Kerala tour packages for a trip of a lifetime.