Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is a beautiful destination in the southwest of India. It’s famous for its peaceful backwaters, lush green landscapes, and rich culture. Whether you love relaxing on quiet beaches, hiking through nature, or trying Ayurvedic treatments, Kerala has it all. Let’s discover some of the best places to visit in Kerala, such as Varkala Beach, Poovar Island, Athirapally Waterfalls, Kovalam Beach, Wayanad, and a few hidden gems.
1. Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach is found in the town of Varkala by the Arabian Sea, famous for its cliffs. It’s known for its spiritual importance and natural beauty, with a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu on top of one cliff. Visitors can relax on the sandy beach, enjoy beautiful sunsets, and try delicious local seafood at the nearby beach shacks.
2. Poovar Island
Poovar Island, near Thiruvananthapuram, is a peaceful escape where the Arabian Sea meets the backwaters. You can only reach Poovar Island by boat. It’s famous for its calm beaches, coconut trees, and vibrant plants. Visitors can take boat trips along the Neyyar River, explore mangrove forests, and spot many birds in their natural homes.
3. Athirapally Waterfalls
Athirapally Waterfalls, known as the “Niagara of India,” is a beautiful waterfall found in Thrissur district. It looks most spectacular during the rainy season when it’s at its fullest, surrounded by thick forests and lush greenery. Nature lovers and photographers enjoy hiking trails around Athirapally, which offer panoramic views of the scenery and the waterfall. It’s a perfect spot for anyone who enjoys being in awe of nature’s beauty.
4. Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach is a favorite spot in Kerala, not far from Thiruvananthapuram. It’s famous for its curved coastline and clear blue waters, drawing tourists who love sunbathing and swimming. The beach has three parts: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach. Each part has its own attractions, like swimming, sunbathing, and eating by the shore.
5. Wayanad
Wayanad is a beautiful hill station tucked away in the Western Ghats. It’s famous for its green forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and spice farms. You can go trekking here, spot animals at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and visit old caves like Edakkal Caves. Chembra Peak, the highest point in Wayanad, gives stunning views of the valleys around it and is a top spot for trekking.
6. Munnar
Munnar is a peaceful hill station known for its misty valleys, vast tea gardens, and pleasant weather. You can spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat, at Eravikulam National Park. Don’t miss hiking to Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, for stunning views. Explore the tea estates scattered across the hills, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy scenic walks amidst lush greenery.
7. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey, also called Alappuzha, is well-known for its extensive network of backwaters. It’s famous for houseboat cruises where you can stay overnight. These houseboats let you cruise through peaceful waterways surrounded by coconut trees. You’ll get to see rural life in Kerala up close as you pass by villages and local people going about their daily activities. Besides houseboats, Alleppey hosts lively boat races that are a big attraction for visitors. These races showcase traditional boats competing in thrilling events that draw crowds from all over.
8. Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi, found in Kochi city, is a historic area famous for its old buildings from colonial times, art galleries, and markets selling spices. Tourists can visit places like the Mattancherry Palace, known for its historical artworks, and St. Francis Church, which is the oldest European church in India. Along the shore, you can see the famous Chinese fishing nets, a unique sight used by local fishermen.
9. Thekkady
Thekkady is well-known for its Periyar National Park, which is renowned for its elephant sightings and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Tourists can see animals drinking water along the shore of Periyar Lake while on boat cruises around the lake. You can get up close and personal with the park’s natural beauty by hiking through its dense forests. Bamboo rafting is available in the picturesque surroundings for an exhilarating ride along the mild river currents. For those who want to experience Kerala’s untamed side and take in its serene scenery, this place is ideal.
10. Kozhikode (Calicut)
Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a city by the coast famous for its rich history, cultural heritage, and delicious food. One of its notable attractions is Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama first set foot in India back in 1498. The city is dotted with ancient temples and museums that offer insights into its past. Visitors can explore these historical sites to learn about the region’s vibrant history. Kozhikode is famous not only for its history but also for its mouthwatering Malabar cuisine. The local food here is known for its unique flavors and spicy blends. You can enjoy a variety of dishes, from fragrant seafood to spicy biryanis.
Kerala is a great place to visit if you want an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re cruising through the calm backwaters of Alleppey, trekking in the misty hills of Munnar, or relaxing on the gorgeous beaches of Kovalam, Kerala has something for everyone. Its stunning scenery, rich history, and welcoming people truly justify its nickname, “God’s Own Country.” Plan your visit to these top spots in Kerala and experience the beauty and culture of this amazing state in southern India.
In the end, eh? You can book a trip to your favorite Hill Station via TripCapsule as we have some nice budget-friendly plans including a variety of services. For Itineraries, bookings, queries, or tour details, reach out to us at TripCapsule!
Plan your trip with Trip Capsule for better safety and Hassle-Free Tour
Thank You for reading this article!