Kerala, often referred to as 'God’s Own Country', is a coastal state in southern India. It is renowned for its pristine backwaters, aromatic spices, lush greenery, and rich cultural traditions. Here are ten of the best places to visit in Kerala:
1. Kochi (Cochin) Famous For: Port city, colonial architecture. Overview: A blend of history and modernity, Kochi offers glimpses of the colonial past with its Dutch palaces, Portuguese homes, and the Jewish Synagogue. Fort Kochi and Mattancherry are must-visit regions, known for their cultural vibrancy and historical significance.
2. Munnar Famous For: Tea gardens, hill station. Overview: Located amidst the Western Ghats, Munnar boasts sprawling tea plantations, aromatic flora, and exotic fauna. The cool climate and breathtaking landscapes make it an ideal spot for honeymooners and trekkers.
3. Alleppey (Alappuzha) Famous For: Backwaters, houseboats. Overview: Often called the 'Venice of the East', Alleppey is best known for its mesmerizing backwaters. Tourists can hire houseboats and experience the serene beauty of the interconnected canals and lakes.
4. Wayanad Famous For: Wildlife, tribal heritage, caves. Overview: A pristine hill station, Wayanad is dotted with waterfalls, historic caves, and exotic wildlife. The Edakkal Caves, showcasing ancient carvings, are a significant attraction.
5. Kumarakom Famous For: Bird Sanctuary, backwater resort. Overview: Located near the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom offers a peaceful retreat with its luxury resorts. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a haven for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts.
6. Thekkady Famous For: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spices. Overview: Home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is a hotspot for spotting wild elephants, boars, and tigers. The aromatic spice gardens offer an interactive experience for visitors.
7. Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) Famous For: Temples, museums, beaches. Overview: The capital city, Thiruvananthapuram boasts historical landmarks like the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and rich cultural spaces like the Napier Museum. Kovalam Beach offers a picturesque sunset view.
8. Varkala Famous For: Cliffs, beaches, healing springs. Overview: Varkala is renowned for its unique geological feature: the Varkala Cliff. The pristine beach, the Janardhana Swamy Temple, and the natural springs believed to have curative properties make Varkala a sought-after destination.
9. Kozhikode (Calicut) Famous For: History, cuisine, Kappad Beach. Overview: Known as the landing spot of the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, Kozhikode is a mix of history and natural beauty. The city's culinary offerings, especially the Malabar biryani, are not to be missed.
10. Bekal Famous For: Bekal Fort, beaches. Overview: Bekal, in the Kasaragod district, is famed for its massive Bekal Fort, which offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The nearby Bekal Beach is ideal for relaxation and sunset views.
Quick Links About Best Places In Kerala
Kumbhalangi
Kumbalangi is a small and beautiful island village in Kochi in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is the first model tourism village in India. You will be surprised to come here and see how a fishing village has turned into a day tourism for fishing here. This undeveloped village can fail cities even today. You can experience the different houses here all of which are famous for the lavish coastal cuisine. Due to the abundance of natural resources, this village presents an ideal place for its visitors. You can visit many other places to enjoy here with the famous Chinese fishing net. Peoples old cultural heritage and simple livelihood gives you experience of indigenous fishing, The experience of cruising and crab farming on a country boat will fill you with a different spirit. The type of fishing cage culture played here is definitely an additional attraction for all tourists. If you are looking for some adventure, you can enjoy crab farming here as well as adopt the technique of "I catch, you fry" style of backwater cruise. You can enjoy walking along the lush green paddy fields of the village. Where the famous Pokki organic rice is cultivated. The nearest station from Kumbalangi is at Ernakulam, about 25 kilometers away. Cochin International Airport is about 46 kilometers away. Can adopt the technique of You can enjoy walking along the lush green paddy fields of the village. Where the famous Pokki organic rice is cultivated. The nearest station from Kumbalangi is at Ernakulam, about 25 kilometers away. Cochin International Airport is about 46 kilometers away. Can adopt the technique of You can enjoy walking along the lush green paddy fields of the village. Where the famous Pokki organic rice is cultivated. The nearest station from Kumbalangi is at Ernakulam, about 25 kilometers away. Cochin International Airport is about 46 kilometers away.
Palakkayam  ThatuÂ
Palakkayam Thattu is located in Kannur near the Western Ghats at an altitude of about 3350 feet above sea level. It is one of the most visited hill stations in the state of Kerala. Surrounded by dense forests and many hills, this hill station is very popular among trekking enthusiasts. Palakkayam Thattu is a natural paradise for nature lovers that offers astounding serenity. If you want to escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of your life, then this hill station is the perfect place for you.
St. Angelos Fort
One of the most historic sites in Kannur, the St. Angelo Fort was constructed by the first Portuguese Viceroy of India. The fort is triangular in shape and appears as a huge huge grand structure, which stands on the edge of the sea. Laterite walls made of stone serve to make it even more airy. This fort is a must visit destination for architecture students. The sea wall separating the fort from the sea provides breathtaking views of Mopila Bay.
Kannur Lighthouse
Kannur Lighthouse, situated at a height of 75 feet, is the first lighthouse to be built in Kerala. First constructed in 1903, this place has history as well as cultural significance. This lighthouse offers splendid and awe-inspiring views of the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea, Baby Beach and the entire district of Kannur. Here tourists can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the water fountain show in the evening.
Eczema
Situated at an altitude of 286 metres, Ezhimala hill is one of the most attractive Kannur tourist places. Ezhimala is a part of a separate group of hills and offers natural beauty from all around. This place also has cultural and historical importance. This place was a battlefield during the Chola-Chera wars. Buddhists consider this place sacred as it is believed that Lord Buddha visited Ezhimala.
Kuttanad Backwaters
Kuttanad is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Kerala. This whole area is surrounded by sea and hills. Kuttanad is called the backwater paradise of India. This place is also known as the rice bowl. This place is famous for rice cultivation as well as natural beauty. Here you can enjoy the breathtaking views while taking a boat ride. You can spend a memorable time with your family and friends in Kuttanad.
Krishnapuram Palace
Krishnapuram Palace is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist places in Alleppey. By coming here, you get a chance to see and understand the art-culture, life and lifestyle of South India. Krishnapuram is a museum and palace in South India, whose history dates back to the 18th century. This palace was built by Anijham Thirunal Marthanda Varma. You will experience peace and joy by coming here.
alleppey beach
The sparkling sands and clear waters of Alleppey Beach make it one of the most prominent places in Kerala. Alleppey Beach is very popular among nature lovers and tourists. The breathtaking view of sunrise and sunset from here makes your trip memorable. You can spend memorable moments with your family and friends on the banks of Alleppey Beach. There are many special places around Alleppey Beach which make your travel experience even more enjoyable.
Marari Beach
Marari Beach is counted among the most prominent beaches of Kerala. If you are fond of spending time amidst nature then Marari Beach is the ideal tourist destination for you. There is also a small village from the middle which attracts a lot of tourists who come here. Here you can understand the art, culture and living style of South India very well. The sunrise and sunset viewing experience from Marari Beach is extremely pleasant and enjoyable. Marari Beach is very popular among travelers and nature lovers. Here you can spend a memorable time with your family and friends by the beach.
Alleppey Church
The Church of Alleppey is situated on the banks of the Pampa River in Kerala. This church was built in the year 1810 and even today this church stands as it is. This church is a major tourist attraction in Alleppey. This church is also known as Edthua Church and St. George Foreign Church. This church is a fine example of medieval European architecture. If you want to spend time in some beautiful and peaceful place while strolling by the river, then definitely visit Alleppey Church.
Attukad Waterfalls
Situated 2 km from Munnar, amidst beautiful hills and lush green forests, this pristine waterfall is known for romantic escapades and picnic spots. However, the road at Attukkad is a bit rough and requires a lot of experience to drive on it.
Pothamedu View Point
Pothamedu View Point, located 5 km from Munnar, is adorned with stretching hills and lush green mountains. One can enjoy stunning views of the area for tea, coffee and cardamom. It is an ideal place to watch beautiful sunrise and sunset.
Photo point
The point is known to be an excellent photographic spot, as the name suggests. Not many people choose to stay at this place as there is not much to see here, but once you get off the car and take a look at the surroundings, its lavish ambiance is bound to charm you. Photo Point is the ideal place to experience the charm of the indigenous flora of the region. Glowing with gently rolling hills, babbling bushes and silver oars, the beauty of this place adds to its simplicity. The turquoise sky against the emerald tea plantations is a breathtaking sight.
Tata Tea or KDHP Museum
Located at Tata Teas Nalthanni Estate, about 2 km from Munnar, the KDHP Museum displays a variety of antiques.
Anamudi Peak
Anamudi hill near the National Park is also worth a visit. It is the highest peak in South India. Its altitude is about 2700 meters. However, to go to this peak, you will have to take permission from the Wildlife Authority. By going up the hill, you can capture the beautiful view of the lush green Munnar in your camera.
Mattupetty
Mattupetty is 1700 m above sea level. situated at an altitude. Tourists come here for picnics on the Mattupetty lake and dam built here. From here you can get a beautiful view of the tea gardens. Tourists can also enjoy boating here. Mattupetty is famous for its highly specialized dairy farm.
Pallivasal
Pallaivasal is three km away from Chitrapuram area of ​​Munnar. This is the place which is known for the first hydro electric project of Kerala. This place is quite beautiful and is also a favorite picnic spot of tourists.
Tea Museum
This museum is operated by Tata Tea. Signs related to the beginning of tea production in Munnar in 1880 have been kept in this museum. Many historical photographs are also attached here. The entire process of tea making can be seen and understood closely in the Tea Processing Unit located nearby.
Eravikulam National Park, Munnar
Eravikulam National Park is a national park located in the Idukki district of the state of Kerala, which is also famous worldwide for the Nilgiri Tahr. This national park is located at a distance of about 15 km from Munnar. Situated at an altitude of about 7,000 feet above sea level, this national park is also the first national park in Kerala. In this national park, you not only get an opportunity to see wildlife up close, but you can also get a wonderful and beautiful view of nature.
Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dam in Idukki district is one of the most favorite tourist destination, which is situated at a distance of about 12 km from Munnar. It is a beautiful picnic spot, which regularly attracts tourists. Tourists like to visit the dam and lake here. This place also has the facility of boating, which makes this place even more special. The serene surroundings and panoramic view here attracts tourists.
Lakkom Waterfall
This beautiful waterfall is situated at a distance of about 25 km from Munnar. Surrounded by hills, this waterfall provides a beautiful view of nature, which is no less than a paradise for nature loving people. Tourists come here because of the dense vegetation as well as the serene environment.
Kundala Dam
Kundala Lake is a beautiful lake situated on the way to the top station, which is situated at a distance of about 26 km from Munnar. Surrounded by lush green hills, this lake is also famous for its Kundala Dam. Apart from boating in this lake, you can feel the calm atmosphere here.
Marayoor Dolmens
Marayoor Dolmens (Burial Room) is one of the hidden places around Munnar that you must visit. It is located on SH-17 road at a distance of about 42 kms from Munnar. Which is about 10,000 BC old. There are dozens of dolmens around the Thenkasinathan temple near the Pambar river. Some dolmens are believed to be as old as the Iron Age. Apart from these burial chambers, there are also ancient rock paintings in this area. Some very interesting paintings can be seen at Vikdavu which is located at a distance of about 5 kms from Marayoor. It is one of the most important sites for rock art in Kerala.
Munnar tea garden
One thing that warmly welcomes every tourist who comes here is the tea gardens here. Some of the popular tea gardens in Munnar are Kolukkumalai, Tata Tea, Sevenmalai, Pallivasal and Photo Point. Located at Tata Teas Nallathanni Estate, about 2 km from Munnar, the KDHP Museum displays a variety of antiques. At the same time, 35 km from Munnar is Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, which is situated at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level. This plantation is the tallest in the world, which is also famous for delicious tea. It takes about 52 minutes to reach here by jeep from Munnar. Even if you have come to Munnar for a short time, you must definitely visit the tea gardens here.
Devikulam
Devikulam, a small hill station located at a distance of 7 km from Munnar, has many rare trees and animals. There is Sita Devi lake here, it is said that Sitaji took a dip in this lake, hence it is considered holy. There is also a Sita temple nearby.
Payyambalam Beach
Adorned with a sheet of golden sand, this beach is a major attraction of Kannur. Payyambalam Beach is one of the most popular places in India. It is one of the beautiful beaches in Kerala and has a unique aura. You can come here to relax and spend some time with nature. To reach the beach, you have to cross a small bridge which is built over a narrow canal. On the right side of the bridge you can see many important monuments of political figures. The shore side is adorned with palm trees, which not only add to the natural element here but also make it look even more pristine. You can also enjoy adventurous activities like swimming and boating at this beach. There is a one kilometer long walkway which has been built recently along this beach. You can use it to take a walk on the beach and feel the cool breeze and the sound of the waves.
Eravikulam National Park
This park is 15 km from Munnar. This place falls in Devikulam Taluk. Anamudi peak is in the southern region of the park. Originally this park was created to protect the Nilgiri wild goats. It was declared a sanctuary in 1975. In view of its importance in the environmental world of flora and fauna, it was declared a national park in 1978. Spread over 97 sq km, this park is famous for its natural beauty. Rare Nilgiri goats can be seen here. Along with this, the facility of tracking is also available here.
Echo Point
At an altitude of 600 feet and at a distance of about 15 kms from Munnar, Echo Point is surrounded by lush green trees in the lap of a beautiful lake and misty hills. As the name suggests, if you say or shout something here, your voice resonates which attracts a lot of people. Here you can take a peaceful walk around the gentle slopes of the hills, or go boat riding in the calm waters of the lake. Echo Point is a birdwatchers paradise, as many native birds can be seen here.
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