If you are planning to travel to Kerala, you will definitely be impressed by its diverse landscape and natural beauty. Located on the Malabar Coast of India, Kerala has 600 km of coastline along the Arabian Sea and palm-lined beaches. However, Kerala is not only famous for its palm-lined beaches and backwaters, but it is also surrounded by the Western Ghats mountains, which are home to plantations of coffee, tea, and spices. You can also witness the wild life, like tigers, elephants, and langur monkeys, at the Eravikulam National Park and Periyar National Park.
1. Alleppey
While visiting Kerala, you may want to visit Alleppey. The city is home to many beautiful attractions. If you are visiting from outside the state, you should plan your trip around this region during the rainy season to avoid crowds. During the wet season, you can enjoy the water sports such as scuba diving and snorkeling. If you are staying in the city, you should stay in a guesthouse or hotel.
Visiting the temples in Alleppey will give you a deeper insight into the culture of Kerala. During the week, temples are open from five in the morning until 12 pm and from 5:30 pm until 7:30 pm on Sundays. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the local culture and beliefs. After visiting the temples, you can spend time on the beach or enjoy the water activities.
While in Alleppey, make sure to visit the Alappuzha Lighthouse. Once one of the busiest trade centers in the state, this lighthouse is now a historic monument. It displays sculpted, carved, and polished driftwood, including beautiful pictures of birds, animals, and insects. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Kerala.
2. Kochi
When it comes to sightseeing in Kerala, there are many things to see and do. From the seaside to hill stations, the city offers a diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy. The city’s marine drive is the perfect place for an evening stroll. You can also sample authentic quick bites while you take in the sights. In addition, the Hill Palace Museum is an age-old relic and a place to soak in some culture.
If you are looking for the best tourist spots in Kerala, you can start your trip from Kochi. The city is known as the gateway to the state of Kerala, and its eclectic influences include Arab, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese cultures. There are historic sites in Fort Kochi, and the town also has an amusement park, Wonderla. You can find accommodations in Kochi to suit your budget and your taste.
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3. Thekkady
The beautiful view of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary can be seen from Chellarkovil Viewpoint, a picturesque hamlet in the outskirts of Thekkady. A picturesque waterfall and lush green forests are some of the main attractions here. If you are looking for a serene getaway, you can also visit the spice plantations, ayurvedic garden, and the watch tower. Climbing the tower will give you a bird’s eye view of the entire location. You can even watch the sunrise and sunset from this vantage point.
Wildlife lovers will love the wildlife sanctuary in Thekkady. Here, you can observe animals such as tigers, Asian elephants, lion-tailed macaques, sambar deer, and Nilgiri langurs. It is also home to various types of deer, such as spotted deer, barking deer, and civet.
4. Munnar
While visiting Munnar, you should pay a visit to the national park in the nearby town of Thekkady. It spans an area of 97 square kilometers and is home to rare species of animals, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years, are also a popular attraction in the park.
The Eravikulam National Park is located 7.5 km from the Suryanelli car parking lot and is a world-renowned conservation area for the endangered Nilgiri tar. It was declared a national park in 1978. It is one of the best places to visit in Munnar for those interested in exploring the endemic fauna of the region. Here you’ll find up to 130 species of birds, including the famous tiger-eating parrots.
While in Munnar, you can visit the Tata Tea Museum. The museum contains various photographs and curios that tell the history of Munnar’s tea plantations. It also pays homage to the early planters. Admission to the museum costs Rs. 75 per person, and it includes a free cup of cardamom tea. Tea lovers will appreciate this museum. The Tata Tea Museum is a must-visit place in Munnar.
5. Thrissur
Thrissur is the cultural center of Kerala and was formerly the capital of the Kingdom of Kochin. The town has a rich history and has been influenced by both religion and spirituality. Thrissur is known for its beautiful churches and temples, and is a popular tourist destination during the festive season. Thrissur is a bustling town, and is a good choice for those who are interested in local culture, cuisine, and festivities.
Thrissur’s state museum features artifacts and antiques from the area. You’ll be able to see big statues of famous personalities and marvel at the state museum’s collections. There are many other places to explore in Thrissur, including an ancient Hindu temple and a Mural Art Museum. If you love history, you’ll want to check out the Thrissur Museum.
There are many other attractions to enjoy in Thrissur, including the Peechi Dam, which stands across the Manali River. This natural formation sits amidst lush forests and is close to the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. You’ll also find a number of handicraft shops here, and some of these will give you a chance to purchase some of the finest pieces of Kerala artifacts.
6. Kovalam
South of Thiruvananthapuram, the small coastal town of Kovalam has plenty to offer tourists. The striped lighthouse with a viewing platform overlooks Hawa Beach, Samudra Beach and Lighthouse Beach. A mosque overlooks the bustling fishing harbour, while the Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium is a good place to learn about pearl production. There are a few hotels in Kovalam and the town itself is a good place for a relaxing vacation.
Lighthouse Beach is the main beach in Kovalam and is one of the best places to visit in this town. Located on a hill called Kurumakal, the lighthouse offers a beautiful panoramic view of the bay and the Lighthouse. The beach is open to the public for viewing, so you can take in the sights on a romantic evening. There are several other beaches, including Samudra, which is less commercial. Eve’s Beach, which was favored by European tourists in the past, is a great place for quiet evenings.
Another popular tourist spot in Kovalam is the Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium. This museum features different marine species, including shark surgeonfish and triggerfish. The aquarium is unique among other museums in Kerala and one of the best places to visit in Kovalam. You can also learn about pearl production at this museum. The Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium is a great place to visit if you want to learn about pearls.
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7. Wayanad
Wayanad is a district in the rural state of Kerala, India. This enchanting rural area is home to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, a lush forested area with tigers, leopards, egrets, and Asiatic elephants. It is also home to a cave complex with ancient petroglyphs. Whether you’re an animal lover or just enjoy the great outdoors, Wayanad is sure to impress.
In the north of Wayanad, there is the Pazhassi Raja Resort, a popular picnic spot for tourists. This beautiful resort has an aquarium, boating facilities, and brooding trees and shrubs. It is also the cremation point of the infamous pazhassi raja, the Lion of Kerala, who fought against the East India Company and was cremated here in 1805.
Another popular tourist spot in Wayanad is the Chain Tree, a striking Ficus with many myths attached to it. Legend has it that the ghost of a British engineer killed Karthinadan, and his spirit remains stuck in the Chain Tree. Moreover, the Mahout of Wayanad, an Adivasi, helped the British when they first came to the region. The Mahout took the British to the top of the mountains to witness the magnificent view. However, to trek up the peak, you must first get authorization from the Forest Office at Meppad.
8. Thiruvanthapuram
The capital of Kerala, Thiruvanthapuram is a charming destination that offers tourists an array of activities. Known for its British colonial architecture, it features museums and art galleries showcasing collections related to the Travancore royal family. It was the capital of Travancore for much of the 18th to 20th century. You can also enjoy a day at the beach, and take in the spectacular views from the backwaters.
The city is easily accessible by train and air. If you are traveling by plane, the nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport. The CBD of the city is served by several train stations. You can choose your mode of transport according to your convenience and budget. Whether you prefer taking a taxi or hiring a car, there are plenty of options available. A city day tour bus is one of the best ways to see the sights of this bustling metropolis. A trip to the Agasthyakoodam, the sacred ashram of Hindu sage Agastya, is a must-see destination. This hill, which is the second highest in Kerala, is home to rare plants and medicinal herbs. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the diversity of the flora and fauna in the area. It’s also the source of the river Karamana, which fulfills the water needs of the city.
If you are planning to travel to Kerala, you will definitely be impressed by its diverse landscape and natural beauty. Located on the Malabar Coast of India, Kerala has 600 km of coastline along the Arabian Sea and palm-lined beaches. However, Kerala is not only famous for its palm-lined beaches and backwaters, but it is also surrounded by the Western Ghats mountains, which are home to plantations of coffee, tea, and spices. You can also witness the wild life, like tigers, elephants, and langur monkeys, at the Eravikulam National Park and Periyar National Park.
