Kerala is often referred to as “God’s Own Country.” Nestled between the Arabian Sea on the west and the lush Western Ghats on the east, famous for its scenic beauty, tranquil backwaters, rich cultural heritage, and an abundance of wildlife, Kerala is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. From sun-kissed beaches to misty hill stations and enchanting wildlife sanctuaries, Kerala offers something for every traveler.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top reasons why Kerala should be on your travel list, the best places to visit, and tips for an unforgettable experience.
Why Visit Kerala?
Kerala’s appeal lies in its diverse landscape and rich culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or someone looking to relax, Kerala provides a range of experiences. Here are some of the key reasons why Kerala is a top tourist destination:
- Natural Beauty: Kerala is blessed with an array of natural landscapes, from serene beaches to vibrant hill stations and sprawling tea plantations.
- Backwaters: The tranquil backwaters of Kerala are a hallmark of the state’s tourism, offering houseboat experiences like no other.
- Wildlife: Kerala is home to a variety of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, making it a haven for animal lovers and bird watchers.
- Cuisine: Known for its unique spices and coconut-infused flavors, Kerala’s cuisine is a must-try for food enthusiasts.
- Cultural Heritage: With a history of ancient art forms like Kathakali and temple architecture, Kerala is a treasure trove of cultural experiences.
- Ayurveda: Kerala is famous for its age-old Ayurveda practices, offering rejuvenation therapies and wellness retreats.
Top Places to Visit in Kerala
1. Munnar
Munnar is a beautiful hill station located in the Western Ghats, known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool climate. At an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level, Munnar offers breathtaking views, lush greenery, and opportunities for trekking.
- Must-Visit Attractions in Munnar:
- Eravikulam National Park: Famous for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park also offers panoramic views of tea plantations.
- Tea Gardens: Take a guided tour through the sprawling tea estates and learn about tea cultivation.
- Mattupetty Dam: A picturesque dam surrounded by lush hills and an ideal spot for boating.
2. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East,” is famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. The serene backwaters of Alleppey offer a peaceful escape, where you can enjoy the beauty of Kerala while floating on traditional houseboats.
- Must-Visit Attractions in Alleppey:
- Alleppey Beach: A perfect spot to watch the sunset and relax.
- Houseboat Cruise: Experience the backwaters by staying on a houseboat. You’ll pass through lush landscapes, quaint villages, and vibrant flora.
- Krishnapuram Palace: A historical palace showcasing Kerala’s architectural elegance and murals.
3. Kochi (Cochin)
Kochi is a bustling port city that perfectly blends history, modernity, and natural beauty. Known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” Kochi has a rich colonial past influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule.
- Must-Visit Attractions in Kochi:
- Fort Kochi: Explore the historical streets lined with colonial architecture, churches, and art galleries.
- Chinese Fishing Nets: A unique attraction of Kochi, these fishing nets have become synonymous with the city’s identity.
- Mattancherry Palace: Also known as the Dutch Palace, this museum houses murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
4. Thekkady
Thekkady is home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a significant attraction for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This sanctuary is known for its elephant herds, tigers, and rich flora.
- Must-Visit Attractions in Thekkady:
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants, deer, and various birds.
- Spice Plantations: Thekkady is famous for its spices like pepper, cardamom, and cloves. Take a tour of a plantation to learn about spice cultivation.
- Bamboo Rafting: For the adventurous, bamboo rafting on the Periyar River offers a unique way to experience the wilderness.
5. Kumarakom
Another famous backwater destination, Kumarakom is located on the banks of Vembanad Lake. This tranquil destination is perfect for a peaceful retreat, offering serene landscapes and opportunities to observe birdlife.
- Must-Visit Attractions in Kumarakom:
- Vembanad Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Kerala, ideal for boating and houseboat cruises.
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A bird watcher’s paradise, home to migratory birds like Siberian cranes and various local species.
- Pathiramanal Island: A small, beautiful island on Vembanad Lake, ideal for picnics and nature walks.
6. Wayanad
Wayanad, located in the northeastern part of Kerala, is known for its green forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. This region is ideal for trekking, camping, and exploring caves.
- Must-Visit Attractions in Wayanad:
- Edakkal Caves: These ancient caves feature Neolithic engravings that are thousands of years old.
- Banasura Sagar Dam: The largest earthen dam in India, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Soochipara Waterfalls: A three-tiered waterfall perfect for swimming and photography.
7. Varkala
Varkala is a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and cliffs. It offers a unique combination of beach and hill experiences, with towering cliffs that run alongside the Arabian Sea.
- Must-Visit Attractions in Varkala:
- Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach): This beach is not only known for its beauty but also considered sacred, where pilgrims come to cleanse themselves.
- Varkala Cliff: Offering spectacular views of the ocean, the cliff is lined with cafes and shops.
- Janardanaswamy Temple: A 2000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, situated close to the beach.
Kerala’s Cultural Heritage
Kerala’s culture is as diverse as its landscape. From traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam to the age-old martial art of Kalaripayattu, Kerala’s rich cultural heritage adds depth to your travel experience.
1. Kathakali
Kathakali is a classical dance-drama form that originated in Kerala. Known for its elaborate costumes and makeup, Kathakali performances often depict stories from Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
2. Ayurveda
Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that focuses on natural healing. Kerala is home to numerous Ayurvedic centers offering treatments and therapies that promote wellness and rejuvenation.
3. Onam Festival
Onam is Kerala’s most celebrated festival, usually falling between August and September. The festival marks the return of the mythical King Mahabali and is celebrated with grand feasts (Onasadya), boat races, and traditional art forms.
4. Boat Races
Boat races, especially the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alleppey, are a significant part of Kerala’s cultural identity. These races, involving long snake boats (chundan vallams), attract crowds from across the world.
Kerala Cuisine
Kerala’s cuisine is an essential part of the travel experience, offering a wide range of flavors, from spicy curries to sweet delicacies. The state’s food culture is heavily influenced by its abundant spices and coconut-based ingredients.
- Sadhya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, usually consisting of rice, curries, pickles, and payasam (sweet dish).
- Appam and Stew: A rice pancake paired with coconut-based stew, often served with chicken, lamb, or vegetables.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: A breakfast favorite made from steamed rice flour and coconut, served with spicy black chickpea curry.
- Seafood: Kerala’s coastal location means it’s a seafood lover’s paradise. Dishes like fish curry, prawns fry, and Kerala-style crab are popular.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Kerala is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit largely depends on your preferences:
- Winter (October to February): This is the peak tourist season, with pleasant weather perfect for exploring the beaches, backwaters, and hill stations.
- Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon brings heavy rainfall, making it an ideal time for Ayurvedic treatments and witnessing the lush greenery.
- Summer (March to May): While the plains can get hot, hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad remain cool and are excellent for summer retreats.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kerala
- Houseboat Bookings: If you plan to experience the backwaters on a houseboat, book in advance, especially during the peak season.
- Respect Local Customs: Kerala is a culturally rich state, and it’s essential to respect local customs, especially when visiting temples.
- Sustainable Travel: Kerala is known for its natural beauty, so it’s important to follow eco-friendly practices during your stay.
- Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying the local delicacies, especially the traditional Sadhya during festivals.
- Pack Smart: Kerala’s weather can vary, so pack light cotton clothes for the coastal areas and warm clothes for hill stations.
Conclusion
Kerala offers an unparalleled travel experience, combining the best of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you want to relax on a houseboat, explore ancient temples, trek through tea plantations, or simply soak in the beauty of its landscapes, Kerala has something for every traveler. Make sure to add Kerala to your travel bucket list and experience the charm of “God’s Own Country.”
