Kerala is gifted with a mystical beauty that is yet undiscovered and unexplored. Exploring Kerala, which is located in the southernmost part of India, would be exciting and interesting in every manner. When visiting Kerala, make sure not to miss the backwaters, the Arabian Sea, the deep, emerald-green forests, the delicious seafood, and the houseboats. But the traveller in you wants to experience much more than the typical tourist attractions when you visit a new location, thus the aforementioned types of things are insufficient. You constantly have high expectations for bigger, better, fantastical, and amazing things.
Kerala is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in India because of its lush green tea plantations, tranquil meandering backwaters, and spice farms, to name a few characteristics. Kerala, often known as “God’s Own Country,” is a paradise for tourists who want to relax in a natural setting far from the concrete jungle. Kerala is a sight to behold in a state where the landscape varies from cold highlands to warm sea beaches. The following locations are a “must-see” for anybody travelling to this tropical haven.
- Houseboat
To explore the lovely areas nearby, you might take a houseboat ride in the backwaters. The natural beauty that surrounds you is palpable. You may have the experience of staying on a houseboat that leisurely navigates the canals and rivers. As you are out of the city, the journey will be tranquil and pleasant. Kerala’s rural life may be observed by taking a cruise around the state. If you go on a trip with family or friends, it will be more thrilling. Delicious regional cuisine prepared by a chef who is aboard the boat will be given to you during your stay.
- Padmanabha Swamy Temple
This temple is regarded as one of the most cherished in the nation and is among the most well-known temples in Kerala with a rich history. It is quite well-liked because of its classic architectural design. The Lord Vishnu appears in this temple as Padmanabha (the Lord who lies on the serpent Anantha or Adiseshan in the form of Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Padmanabha). We must ascend 18 holy golden stairs to get to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. In the temple’s hall, there are 100 pillars. This temple is regarded as one of Kerala’s top 108 Divya Desams, or sacred residences of Vishnu.
- Kolukkumalai Trekking
A genuine delight for travellers, hikers, and adventurers, Kolukkumalai trekking is one of India’s most challenging treks. The area is near Munnar and is well-known for its tea farms. The highest tea-producing region in the world is where these plantations are located. This area is rich in the fresh air, lush vegetation, and stunning vistas, so you will love to discover its splendour. Due to its challenging terrain—steep paths and high altitudes—Kolukkumalai hiking is significantly more difficult than other locations. Around 150 kilometres from Munnar, in the Idukki district, one may start this trip. The monsoon season is the finest time to go hiking since it is more exciting.
- Kovalam
One of the most well-known vacation spots in the nation is the beach resort of Kovalam in southern India. As its name suggests, Kovalam is a grove of coconut trees, and the town lives up to its name by displaying a wide variety of these plants. Kovalam was made well-known to the public by the Maharaja of Travancore. European visitors to the former Travancore kingdom learned that Kovalam Beach might be a popular tourist destination around the beginning of the 1930s. Kovalam became a major worldwide tourism destination over time. Kovalam is a popular vacation destination for travellers from throughout the globe. The “Paradise of the South” is called Kovalam, and it is also one of India’s leading centres for wellness (Ayurveda, Yoga Meditation). A special location for wellness tourism in Kerala is Kovalam.
- Bamboo Rafting Thekkady
The nature reserve and Periyar Lake in the Kerala border town of Thekkady are well-known. The Periyar river, which flows out of the Western Ghats, gave the location its name. It’s an exciting sport that also allows you to take in the splendour of nature when you go bamboo rafting on the Periyar river. To get here, you must first go 2 kilometres to Panchalimedu from Thekkady. Along with these activities, you may go on nature hikes, zip line treks, and trips on bamboo rafts.
- Punnathoor Kotta
The Elephant Palace is another name for Punnathoor Kotta. Many elephants live in this palace, and they are very well cared for and groomed. Visitors to the palace get the chance to feed, pet, and bathe the elephants. All enthusiasts of elephants should visit this location. This place is near Thrissur, Kerala has stunning views of the natural world. It was erected by the Vadakkancherry Kings. Punnathoor Kotta is being maintained by the Guruvayur Devaswom Trust in Kerala.
- Theyyam
One of the most well-known ceremonial arts in Kerala is called Theyyam. The “dance of gods” or “dance with god” is a ritual that takes place at the temples of North Malabar. This is something, which translates to “god,” and refers to a style of devotion practised by followers of a deity who think they are possessed by the spirit of that deity. This can be compared to the Hindu Kaliyattam dancing style. Drums, cymbals, and other instruments are used by the dancers as they perform traditional music while donning ornate costumes. The faces of the dancers are painted in various hues to resemble their deities.
It is an essential component of daily life in northern Kerala and has been passed down through generations. Visitors swarm to attend the performances, which take place during each village’s unique Theyyam season.
- Cochin
In God’s Own Country, Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a special location that flawlessly combines traditional traditions and cutting-edge concepts. This majestic port city, affectionately known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” has traditionally been a major tourist destination since antiquity. This is a crossroads of several cultures and customs and has embraced the contemporary worldview to become one of India’s most advanced metropolises. Cochin will undoubtedly make you fall in love all over again, whether it’s with the spirit of the Dutch establishments, British heritage, Chinese nets, or the old spice markets.
- Vagamon
You must schedule your vacation at Vagamon if you’re seeking an unusual but enchanting getaway in Kerala. This refuge in Kerala’s Idukki district, one of the most picturesque hill stations and least visited tourist destinations, is renowned for its wholesome beauty, agreeable climate, and a variety of other attributes. Along with tourists, it attracts a sizable number of thrill- and adventure-seekers. It is a year-round destination and is regarded as the best location for adventure sports including paragliding, mountaineering, rock climbing, hiking, and many more.
- Malappuram
Malappuram, often known as the “City of Hills” or the “Soccer City of Kerala,” was formerly a military base and may be one of the nicest things to ever happen to you! Simply schedule a trip to this stunning hilltop city, and you’ll undoubtedly become engrossed in its alluring atmosphere. This picturesque city, which is located in Kerala’s southernmost region and has year-round foggy weather, attracts a lot of visitors from all over the nation. There are plenty of things to keep you entertained while in Malappuram, whether it is the city’s natural beauty, its historical significance, its tourist attractions, or even just relaxing.