Nestled in the enchanting southwestern region of India, Kerala earns its well-deserved moniker, “God’s Own Country.” This tropical haven is a symphony of natural beauty and cultural richness, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its diverse tapestry of experiences. From the lush, emerald-green landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see to the tranquil backwaters, pristine beaches, and a treasure trove of traditions, Kerala is a captivating destination.
Kerala’s allure extends across seasons, whether you’re exploring the idyllic backwaters on a houseboat, relaxing on palm-fringed beaches, or venturing into lush tea and spice plantations. The state also embraces a vibrant cultural scene, with classical dance forms, traditional music, and festivals that showcase its rich heritage. Delight your taste buds with Kerala’s delectable cuisine, known for its flavorsome curries, seafood specialties, and fresh coconut-infused dishes. As you traverse this tropical paradise, you’ll discover why Kerala’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Kerala offers a plethora of offbeat destinations that are perfect for travelers seeking unique and less crowded experiences. Here are some offbeat places to visit in Kerala:
- Vagamon: Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Vagamon is a serene hill station known for its rolling green meadows, pine forests, and misty landscapes. It’s an ideal destination for trekking, paragliding, and nature lovers.
- Munroe Island: Located in the backwaters of Kollam, Munroe Island is a hidden gem. Explore its tranquil waterways, lush coconut groves, and enjoy canoe rides to witness the local way of life.
- Nelliyampathy: This hill station in Palakkad offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and is known for its tea and coffee plantations. Go for a trek in the nearby forests or explore the orange and cardamom farms.
- Marari Beach: While Kerala has famous beaches, Marari Beach in Alappuzha remains relatively undiscovered. It offers a peaceful coastal experience with pristine sands and traditional fishing villages.
- Agasthyakoodam: This lesser-visited peak in the Western Ghats is perfect for trekking enthusiasts. It’s also home to rare medicinal herbs and diverse wildlife.
- Silent Valley National Park: Located in the Nilgiri Hills, this park is known for its pristine beauty and rich biodiversity. It’s an excellent place for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
- Gavi: A remote village in Pathanamthitta, Gavi is an ecotourism destination known for its dense forests, wildlife, and trekking trails. It’s an ideal place for a serene getaway.
- Idukki: While the district itself is well-known, there are offbeat spots within it, like Ramakkalmedu, which offers panoramic views and the opportunity to witness the wind farm.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: While Wayanad is gaining popularity, the wildlife sanctuary remains less crowded compared to some other national parks in India. It’s a great place for wildlife safaris and nature walks.
- Anchuruli Tunnel: This lesser-visited spot in Idukki offers a scenic tunnel view of the Idukki Reservoir, and it’s a peaceful place to unwind.
These offbeat destinations in Kerala provide a chance to explore the state’s hidden treasures, away from the usual tourist crowds. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or adventure, these places offer unique experiences that can make your Kerala trip truly memorable.
Kerala offers a wide range of activities for travelers, from exploring its natural beauty to immersing yourself in its rich culture. Here are some of the top things to do in Kerala:
- Houseboat Stay in Alleppey: Experience the iconic Kerala backwaters by staying in a traditional houseboat in Alleppey or Kumarakom. Enjoy the serene waterways, lush landscapes, and delicious Kerala cuisine prepared on board.
- Explore Munnar’s Tea Plantations: Visit Munnar’s tea estates, go for a tea factory tour, and enjoy panoramic views of rolling green hills. Trekking in the surrounding forests is also a popular activity.
- Kathakali and Kalaripayattu Performances: Witness traditional art forms like Kathakali (classical dance-drama) and Kalaripayattu (martial arts) in Kochi or other cultural centers in Kerala.
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Embark on a wildlife safari in Periyar to spot elephants, tigers, and various other species. Boat rides on Periyar Lake offer a unique perspective.
- Kochi Sightseeing: Explore Fort Kochi’s historic sites, including the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and the Mattancherry Palace. The Jewish Quarter and its synagogue are also worth a visit.
- Kerala Cuisine Tasting: Savor traditional Kerala dishes like appam, stew, Malabar biryani, and seafood specialties at local restaurants or through cooking classes.
- Ayurvedic Wellness Retreat: Experience rejuvenation and relaxation through Ayurvedic massages and wellness treatments at one of Kerala’s many Ayurvedic retreats.
- Beach Time in Kovalam or Varkala: Relax on the sandy shores of Kovalam or Varkala beaches, indulge in water sports, and watch stunning sunsets.
- Trekking and Wildlife in Wayanad: Explore the lush landscapes of Wayanad, go trekking in Chembra Peak, and visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Explore Thekkady: Apart from wildlife, Thekkady offers opportunities for spice plantation tours, bamboo rafting, and nature walks.
- Visit the Artistic Village of Kalamandalam: Learn about Kerala’s traditional arts and crafts at Kalamandalam in Cheruthuruthi.
- Boat Race in Alappuzha: If you’re visiting during the boat race season (usually August to September), don’t miss the thrilling snake boat races in Alappuzha.
- Bamboo Rafting in Periyar: Explore the Periyar Tiger Reserve on a bamboo raft, a unique way to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Visit a Spice Plantation: Learn about the spices that make Kerala’s cuisine so flavorful by visiting a spice plantation in Thekkady or Wayanad.
- Stay in a Treehouse: Experience a unique stay in a treehouse in the forests of Kerala, offering a blend of adventure and tranquility.
Kerala’s diverse attractions and experiences make it a versatile destination catering to various interests, from nature and wildlife enthusiasts to cultural explorers and those seeking relaxation and wellness.
The best time to visit Kerala is during its two primary tourist seasons, which correspond to the state’s weather patterns:
- Winter (October to February): This is considered the peak tourist season in Kerala. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and beach vacations. The temperature ranges from 18°C to 32°C (64°F to 89°F), and there is minimal rainfall. It’s the best time for exploring hill stations like Munnar and Thekkady and enjoying the backwaters.
- Monsoon (June to September): Kerala experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. While this might deter some travelers, it’s a unique time to visit if you enjoy lush green landscapes and want to experience Kerala’s rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments. The rain usually falls in short bursts, creating a refreshing atmosphere. The backwaters are at their most scenic, and the landscape is vibrant and verdant.
- Summer (March to May): Kerala’s summer can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F) or higher. While it’s not the most comfortable time for outdoor activities, hill stations like Munnar offer respite from the heat, and you can still enjoy the backwaters and coastal areas.
The choice of when to visit Kerala depends on your preferences. If you prefer pleasant weather and a wide range of outdoor activities, consider visiting during the winter season. If you’re interested in Ayurvedic treatments, enjoy the monsoon’s lush landscapes, or want to experience Kerala’s unique culture and festivals, then the monsoon season can be an intriguing option.
Kerala, located in the southwestern part of India, is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here’s how to reach Kerala:
By Air:
Cochin International Airport (COK): Located in Kochi (Cochin), this is the busiest airport in Kerala and one of the major international gateways. It has regular flights from major Indian cities and several international destinations.
Trivandrum International Airport (TRV): This airport in Thiruvananthapuram is another major international airport in Kerala with domestic and international flights.
By Train:
Kerala has an extensive railway network with several major railway stations, including Ernakulam Junction (Kochi), Thiruvananthapuram Central, Kozhikode, and Thrissur. Indian Railways operates numerous trains connecting Kerala to major cities across India.
By Road:
Kerala is well-connected by a network of national and state highways. You can reach Kerala by road from neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Major highways like NH 66 and NH 544 pass through the state.
Luxury buses, as well as state-run and private bus services, operate intercity and interstate routes to Kerala.
By Sea:
Kerala has several ports, including Kochi, Kozhikode, and Vizhinjam (near Thiruvananthapuram), which receive cargo and passenger ships. Some cruise lines also offer sailings to Kerala, particularly to Kochi.
By Domestic Flights:
You can reach Kerala by taking a domestic flight to either Cochin International Airport or Trivandrum International Airport from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore.
By Train and Road Combination:
If you’re traveling from a nearby state or city, you can take a train to the nearest major railway station in Kerala and then continue your journey by road.
By Bus:
Long-distance buses, including sleeper and semi-sleeper options, are available from major cities in neighboring states to various cities in Kerala.
Kerala is well-connected and accessible by different modes of transportation, allowing you to choose the most convenient and suitable option based on your starting point and travel preferences. Be sure to check the latest travel information, routes, and transportation options before planning your trip.
