Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala Tourism: A Complete Guide
Known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is one of India’s most popular travel destinations, famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, tranquil backwaters, diverse wildlife, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
Tucked along India’s southwestern coastline, Kerala is an idyllic paradise for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
With a unique mix of serene beaches, misty hill stations, enchanting backwaters, and lush forests, Kerala offers something for everyone.
Here’s a detailed guide to Kerala, including the best time to visit, how to reach, must-see destinations, activities, and insights into its food and culture.
Kerala’s charm lies in its natural beauty, rich traditions, and welcoming people. Whether you are exploring its serene backwaters, relaxing on its beaches, or rejuvenating with an Ayurvedic spa, Kerala offers a fulfilling travel experience.
Overview
Kerala is renowned for its tropical charm, comprising backwaters, waterfalls, spice plantations, and verdant tea gardens. Its extensive coastline along the Arabian Sea is dotted with pristine beaches, while its interiors are filled with serene rivers, dense forests, and hill stations. Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, rooted in centuries-old traditions, is reflected in its classical art forms, Ayurveda treatments, and festival celebrations. Kerala’s tourism tagline, “God’s Own Country,” perfectly captures the essence of its natural splendor and warm hospitality.
Quick Facts:
Capital:
Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
Languages Spoken:
Malayalam, English
Best Known For:
Backwaters, beaches, Ayurvedic wellness, hill stations, festivals, and spice plantations.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kerala depends on the type of experience you’re looking for:
Winter (October to February):
This is the peak tourist season as the weather is cool, pleasant, and perfect for exploring beaches, backwaters, and hill stations. Temperatures range between 10°C and 25°C (50°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Summer (March to May):
Summer in Kerala can be hot and humid, with temperatures rising to around 35°C (95°F). However, the hill stations remain relatively cool, and this season is perfect for travelers looking to avoid crowds. It’s also an excellent time for Ayurveda treatments.
Monsoon (June to September):
Kerala experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. This is a beautiful time for nature lovers, as the landscape is lush and green. The monsoon is also considered the best time for Ayurvedic treatments as the body is said to be more receptive to healing.
How to Reach Kerala
Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from different parts of India and abroad.
By Air:
Kerala has four major airports—Cochin International Airport (COK) in Kochi, Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) in Thiruvananthapuram, Calicut International Airport (CCJ) in Kozhikode, and Kannur International Airport (KIAL) in Kannur. These airports connect Kerala to major Indian cities and international destinations.
By Train:
Kerala has a well-developed rail network, with major railway stations in cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode, and Alappuzha. Trains to Kerala are available from almost all major cities in India, making it a convenient mode of travel.
By Road:
Kerala has an extensive network of national and state highways that connect it to neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Regular state-run and private bus services make road travel to Kerala convenient.
Places to Visit in Kerala
Munnar:
Known as the “Kashmir of South India,” Munnar is a popular hill station in Kerala, famous for its tea gardens, misty mountains, and pleasant climate. Key attractions include Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, and Top Station.
Alleppey (Alappuzha):
Known for its picturesque backwaters, Alleppey offers houseboat cruises that glide through a network of serene canals, rivers, and lakes. Vembanad Lake and Alappuzha Beach are also must-visit spots.
Kochi (Cochin):
This port city, known for its historical sites and cultural diversity, is a unique blend of the old and new. Key attractions include Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and Marine Drive.
Kumarakom:
Located near Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is another famous backwater destination, known for its bird sanctuary, houseboat cruises, and tranquil environment. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is home to a variety of migratory birds.
Wayanad:
An ecotourism haven, Wayanad is known for its wildlife, waterfalls, caves, and spice plantations. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls, and Chembra Peak are popular attractions here.
Thekkady:
Famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady offers an excellent opportunity to experience Kerala’s wilderness. Boat rides on Periyar Lake offer sightings of elephants, tigers, and other wildlife.
Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum):
The capital city is known for its beaches, temples, and museums. The Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam Beach, and Napier Museum are highlights of this city.
Varkala:
Known for its unique cliffside beaches, Varkala is popular among beach lovers and spiritual seekers. Varkala Beach, Janardana Swamy Temple, and the Sivagiri Mutt are must-visit places here.
Athirappilly:
Known as the “Niagara of India,” Athirappilly Falls is Kerala’s largest waterfall. It is located in the Thrissur district and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts.
Bekal:
Located in the Kasaragod district, Bekal is known for the Bekal Fort, Kerala’s largest and best-preserved fort, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Things to Do in Kerala
Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey and Kumarakom:
Cruising on a houseboat through Kerala’s backwaters is a unique experience. Travelers can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lush landscape, dotted with coconut trees and paddy fields.
Tea Plantation Tour in Munnar:
Munnar’s lush tea plantations are perfect for a leisurely walk and learning about the tea-making process. The Tea Museum offers insights into the history and legacy of tea in the region.
Wildlife Safari in Periyar:
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady offers a chance to see elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on Periyar Lake for a unique view of the forest and its inhabitants.
Beach Activities in Kovalam and Varkala:
Kovalam’s beaches are famous for sunbathing, water sports, and Ayurvedic massages. Varkala offers unique cliffside views, and beach lovers can explore the coastal beauty here.
Kathakali and Kalaripayattu Performances:
Kerala is famous for its classical dance form Kathakali and martial art Kalaripayattu. Visitors can enjoy these performances in various cultural centers and theaters across Kerala, especially in Kochi.
Bird Watching in Kumarakom and Wayanad:
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary are ideal for birdwatching, with sightings of various migratory birds, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers.
Ayurvedic Spa and Wellness Treatments:
Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic heritage. Numerous resorts and wellness centers across the state offer traditional Ayurvedic therapies, which are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Trekking and Camping in Wayanad and Thekkady:
Kerala’s hilly terrains and forests make it an ideal destination for trekking. The Chembra Peak trek in Wayanad and Periyar Reserve trails in Thekkady offer adventurous experiences.
Food and Culture
Kerala’s cuisine and culture are a rich amalgamation of flavors, traditions, and festivals that are deeply rooted in its history and way of life.
Cuisine
Appam and Stew:
Appam, a rice pancake, is commonly served with a coconut-based vegetable or meat stew. It’s a popular breakfast dish across Kerala.
Puttu and Kadala Curry:
Puttu (steamed rice cake) served with kadala curry (black chickpeas) is another breakfast staple, enjoyed for its unique flavor and texture.
Sadya:
Sadya is a traditional vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf, typically during festivals and special occasions. It includes a variety of dishes like rice, sambar, avial, thoran, and payasam.
Malabar Biryani:
Hailing from the Malabar region, this flavorful biryani is a must-try, made with fragrant rice, spices, and either chicken, mutton, or fish.
Kerala Parotta and Beef Curry:
This popular combination includes flaky, layered flatbread (parotta) served with spicy beef curry.
Fish Curry:
Kerala’s coastal cuisine features a variety of fish curries, cooked in spicy and tangy coconut-based gravies, often accompanied by rice or kappa (tapioca).
Culture
Kerala’s culture is a blend of various influences, including Dravidian, Aryan, and foreign. The state is known for its traditional dance forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as the martial art Kalaripayattu. Festivals like Onam, Vishu, and Thrissur Pooram are celebrated with grandeur and reflect Kerala’s cultural depth. Onam, the harvest festival, is the most famous festival in Kerala, featuring elaborate feasts, cultural programs, and traditional games.
