Included in the National Geographic Travelers list of “one of the 50 must see destinations of a lifetime”, Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India as well as Asia. There are numerous admirable places and things to do in Kerala. From palm fringed backwaters, romantic hill stations to sun kissed beaches, extensive wildlife and rich cultural heritage, Kerala offers myriad options for tourists. Here are the top 15 things to do in Kerala ‘God’s Own Country’
Cruise the Backwaters on a Houseboat
Kettuvalam are traditional houseboats that skim in the Kerala Backwater. It got its name from two Malayallam words; Kettu (To tie) and Vallam (Boat). Earlier they were used for trading, but later it proved to be a strong aspect in the tourism scenario. The houseboats are mainly made up of bamboo, and have exquisite interiors. Most upgraded houseboats have three bedrooms, balconies and a living room. What else could be a better way to unearth the treasures of Kerala?
[Embark on 5 Days Kerala Houseboat Tour]
Get closer to nature in Munnar
Stark tranquility enfolds the curves of Munnar’s hillocks. Munnar is located in the Idukki district of Kerala, near the confluence of three rivers (Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly). Neelakurinji is exotic flower specie that is grown here; this paints the hills blue once it blooms, in every twelve years. Also, the highest peak of South India, Anamudi (2695 m), is located in Munnar.
[You may also read Top 10 Hill Stations in Kerala]
Wash the sins away in Varkala Beach
People come to Varkala Beach to wash their sins away. It is also known as Papanasam Beach which means killing the sins. Different spiritual tales bind people’s faith. Besides its religious significance, Varkala beach is known for its charm and its proximity to lively markets, spas for Ayurveda treatments and massages. So when you are not sunbathing or swimming in the beach, a lot of other activities await you.
Sit back and enjoy Kathakali
Kathakali is one of the most expressive, graceful, colorful and traditional dance forms in the world. The performer wears heavy makeup, an ornate headgear and stunning costume. This Indian Classical Dance form requires years of training and precision in gestures, posture and facial expression. Witnessing a Kathalkali performance must be in your list if you are a culture-vulture.
Let Ayurveda do the rejuvenation
India is the birth place of Ayurveda and Kerala is a top-dog when it comes to Ayurveda. Kerala is known for Ayurveda massages and treatments. Best things about Ayurveda are that it does not have any side effects and it is born from the nature. Whether you are looking for treatment for diseases or just rejuvenation, Kerala has the best to offer.
[Check-out the Top 5 Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala]
Take a stroll in Kerala’s Spice Plantations
Kerala has sprawling fields of spice plantations like nutmeg, pepper, clove, cinnamon and cardamom. Fresh aroma of these spices is refreshing and adds to the greenery. Kumily is located on the outskirts of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and is known as The Plantation Town. Taking a nature walk in spice plantation feels great, you can get an insight of growing, harvesting and other processes.
Celebrate Onam in Kerala
This is an important festival of Kerala. Onam is a harvest festival and is celebrated in remembrance of Vamana and King Mahabali. It spans for ten days, starting off with grand parade in Thrikkara Temple and is concluded with special dishes, boat races, dance, music and folk art.
[Also read the 7 Most Famous Festivals in Kerala]
Savor Kerala’s Cuisine
Served on banana leaves with coconut chutney, Kerala’s food is spicy and hot. People in this Land of Spice love to eat rice and cassava.
[You may also like to read the 11 Best Foods to try in Kerala]
Visit Athirappilly falls
One of the best things about Kerala is off course, Athirappilly Waterfall. This 24 meter tall waterfall is often termed as Niagara of India. Three cascades of milky water falling off the cliff is a sight to behold.
Stay in a tree house of Vythiri Resort
This is a one-of-a-kind accommodation: tree houses circled with haze of clouds, mist and fresh aroma of coffee and cardamom. A house on a tree top with warm hospitality is something you get in few places, and Kerala happens to be one of those few.
[You may also read the Top 5 Tree House Resorts in Kerala]
Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Thekkady, beside Periyar Lake. You can go for elephant safari, boating in the lake or trek to the ruins of Mangaladevi Temple. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 950 km sq. There are about 140 species of orchid, 35 species of mammal, 24 Bengal tigers, 265 species of bird, 45 species of reptile and 40 species of fish, living in this national park.
[Also read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala]
Go for bird watching in Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Located in the Kerala Backwaters, on the banks of Kavaranar River, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a hub of migratory birds. This obviously is a paradise for bird watchers. It is spread over 14 acres and can be explored in a boat; what a serene and ideal experience!
Lose yourself in Bekal Fort
Bekal Fort is the largest fort of Kerala spread over 40 acres. Best part is the observation area led by flights of stairs. You can spend some time here and enjoy best view of the vicinity. This fort, unlike others was not used as a mansion, but for defense purpose and Observation Area was used to keep an eye on the slightest movements of surroundings. As the waves hit the shores of Bekal Beach you will find your paradise around.
Cheer in Snake boat race
Chundan Vallam (Snake boat race) takes place in Nehru Trophy Boat Race and this is its most popular competition. The race takes place in Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha. An 83-feet-long, beaked boat with many performers on board is pulled in synchronization. The boats are treated like gods and each boat represents a different village. Only men are allowed to touch it, that too barefoot. This boat race takes you to a trip to spirituality and enthusiasm.
Trek to Chembra Peak
Festooned with fog and grasslands, Chembra Peak is the highest point of Wayanad (With a height of 2100 m). En route Chembra Peak, trekkers will find a roughly heart shaped lake that is believed to have never dried up. In order to trek to this peak, you need to seek permission from the forest office. All the hardships of this trek are going to be worth it.
Here are some tastefully crafted Kerala tour packages:
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