Kerala
Kerala (India)
Kerala, a surreal destination where the morning brings in the mist and magic. Crafted by the hand of Gods, Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Fondly called the “God’s Own Country”, this is the place where the backwaters hold everyone captive with their alluring silence. Yes, it’s the ‘Spice Capital of India’ where the evening wishes adieu with some of the enchanting melodiesplayed by Mother Nature. Yes, such is the beauty and appeal of Kerala!Let loose the wanderlust in you and plan a trip to this prismatic land; there are an array of places to visit in Kerala.
Though every region of KERALA is full with attractions and beautiful scenery and all the places are counted as must to visit. Some of the best Places to Visit in Kerala are Kovalam, Kottayam, Pallivasal and Kundala. Located on the Malabar Coast, the Indian state of Kerala is blessed by Mother Nature. From enchanting beaches to sparkling backwaters, the paradise-like land houses rich flora and fauna. Besides, the state is popular for its timeless traditions and mouth-watering food.
Top 10 place of Kerala:-
1. Munnar
2. Alleppey
3. Kochi
4. Kumarakom
5. Kovalam
6. Thekkady
7. Bekal
8. Wayanad
9. Vagamon
10. Kozhikode
1. Munnar
Munnar is a popular hill-station of Kerala perched at an altitude of 1600 metres in the Western Ghats. Famous for its tea estates, various shades of green, blankets of mist and craggy peaks, Munnar is aptly known as the 'Kashmir of South India'. Located at the Western Ghats with an average elevation of 1700 meters above sea level, Munnar is a famous hill station in Kerala. The hill station enjoys a favorable and pleasant climate all year round and is famous for its lush green hills and tea plantations.
Munnar is a motley canvas of sloping lush green tea plantations, gushing streams by the hillsides, and winding undulating paths. And there are some absolutely delightful activities to absorb the overwhelming beauty of the largest tea growing region of peninsular India. Activities that everyone must try depending on the time and duration of the visit.
Best places of Munnar-
Top Station
Kundala Lake
Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dairy Farm
Echo Point
Tea Museum
Attukad Waterfalls
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Tea Plantations
Lakkom Water Falls
2. Alleppey
Alappuzha (Alleppey) is known as ‘the Venice of the East’. Offering the best tourist places in Alleppey, this charming place is the hub of Kerala’s backwaters and is home to a huge network of backwaters and more than thousand houseboats. The houseboats you find in the backwaters of Alappuzha are in fact a reworked version of the Kettuvallams of olden times. Kettuvallam is a Malayalam word, ‘Kettu’, means living structures and ‘Vallom’ means boat. In the olden days, kettuvallam or boat with a thatched roof that covers over wooden hulls was used to carry tons of rice and spices.
Emerald green backwaters flanked by paddy fields, long lazy houseboat rides, delicious Appams and Stew, and miles and miles of peace and solitude - say hello to Alleppey! Good news is that all this and much more doesn’t come at a big price. With these insider tips on budget travel and looking out for some exciting deals, you can enjoy a memorable holiday to Alleppey without breaking the bank.
3. Kochi
The city of Kochi, on the southwest coast of India, is an enchanting place that's had an eclectic influence. Known as the "Gateway to Kerala," Kochi's culture and architecture will take you back in time to when the Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese and British occupied the city. The architectural and historical sites in Fort Kochi are the biggest draws for most visitors.
Kochi has its own airport with regular flights connecting major cities. Trains are a cheap and easy mode of travel. Major South Indian cities have buses plying to Kochi. You can also drive to Kochi as the National Highways and connecting roads ensure a smooth drive.
Kochi merchants began trading in spices such as black pepper and cardamom with the Arabs, Dutch, Phoenicians, Portuguese, and Chinese more than 600 years ago. This helped Kochi to prosper and to become the gateway to old India. It was from Kochi that the colonization of India started. Portugal was first to establish its base in Kochi in 1500s, followed by the Dutch and English. The Anglo-Dutch treaty of 1814, compelled the Dutch to hand over Kochi to the British in exchange for Bangka Island in Indonesia. The British managed to establish their influence over Kochi, limiting their direct administration to a small enclave of Fort Kochi and British Ernakulam with their capital at Bolgatty Island.
4. Kumarakom
The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, Darters, Herons, Teals, Waterfowls, Cuckoo, Wild Duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and fascinate all visitors.
Kumarakom,situated 13 Kms away from Kottayam is a sleepy little village on VembanadLake in Kerala. It offers wide variety of flora, exotic sightseeing, boating and fishing experience. The bird sanctuary spread across 14 acres is safe home for many migratory birds like Siberian stork, wild duck etc. They live with other birds in flocks such as darters, herons, egret, waterfowls and cuckoos are fascinating sight for the visitors.
Surrounded by large gardens and swimming pools, the rooms feature wooden ceilings and Asian-style furnishings. Each air-conditioned room has cable TV, a safety deposit box, and tea/coffee making facilities.
5. Kovalam
Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.
Kovalam first received attention when the Regent Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi of Travancore constructed her beach resort, Halcyon Castle, here towards the end of the 1920s. Thereafter the place was brought to the public eye by her nephew the Maharaja of Travancore. The European guests of the then Travancore kingdom discovered the potentiality of Kovalam beach as a tourist destination in the 1930s. However, Kovalam shot into limelight in the early seventies with arrivals of the masses of hippies on their way to Ceylon in the Hippie Trail. This exodus started the transformation of a casual fishing village of Kerala into one of the most important tourist destinations in all India.
Literally meaning “a grove of coconut trees”, Kovalam is barely 10 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Three small beaches comprise the town of Kovalam. Among them, the southernmost beach, Lighthouse Beach, is the most visited one. Once, this beach was an angler’s ecstasy. It still is home to some small villages, just a few kilometers away, which belong to the fishing neighborhood. With time, it has been converted into a happening tourist spot.
6. Thekkady
Thekkady in Kerala State, India's largest wildlife sanctuary is a dream destination for any tourist visiting India . The 120 years old 'Surki' dam built across Peryiar, Poorna in Vedic parlance, is a major tourist attraction. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 Sq.Kms, surrounded by an artificial lake over an area of 25 Sq.Kms.The Country's sole Tiger reserve, Thekkady, with its bountiful treasures of tropical flora and fauna is the ultimate reservoir of many an endangered species and a rich tribal culture. Thekkady is a pleasant heaven on earth for those who love nature in its wild manifestations.
Periyar National Park, being a major attraction, is one place where you can enjoy bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam, hiking, and in the midst of the wilderness, shopping! Popular for its good eating joints, you can also enjoy its vast stretches of spice gardens and various adventure sports. You can also enjoy a night trek in the wilderness of Periyar. The early morning ride in the boat within the sanctuary is an extremely awesome experience and you might be able to spot wild elephants, bisons, wild boars, various kinds of birds, etc.
Periyar National Park, being a major attraction, is one place where you can enjoy bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam, hiking, and in the midst of the wilderness, shopping! Popular for its good eating joints, you can also enjoy its vast stretches of spice gardens and various adventure sports. You can also enjoy a night trek in the wilderness of Periyar. The early morning ride in the boat within the sanctuary is an extremely awesome experience and you might be able to spot wild elephants, bisons, wild boars, various kinds of birds, etc.
7. Bekal
The unique Bekal Fort stands amidst the roaming but heartening music of the seas along with the eternal note of the unending waves, carrying the thrilling memories of a bygone era. This foremost souvenir of the 'Gods own Country' remains undeterred over the ages as a silent witness to centuries of eventful yester years. The Bekal Fort has been a source of attraction for historians, tourists and nature - lovers for centuries since it embodies memories of a glorious past.
Bekal is also far-famed for its striking beaches. During your visit to Bekal, don't miss the famous drink 'Payasam', offered by the Bekal people. Visiting this place in the month of January and March will bring lots of fun and enjoyment as you'll get a glance of 'Theyyam Performance', a ritual dance which is considered as a big affair in the towns of Northern Kerala.
Bekal Fort happens to be the biggest fort of Kerala spreading over forty acres. The important features of this fort are the tank with its flight of steps, the opening of the tunnel towards the South, the magazine for keeping ammunition and the broad and wide steps leading to the Observation Tower is a rarity. From there one has ample view of all the important places in the vicinity like Kanhangad, Pallikare, Bekal, Kottikulam Uduma etc. This observation centre has strategic significance in finding out even the smallest movements of the enemy and ascertaining the safety of the Fort.
8. Wayanad
Wayanad, the green paradise is nestled among the mountains of the Western Ghats, forming the border world of the greener part of Kerala. Clean and pristine, enchanting and hypnotizing, this land is filled with history and culture. Located at a distance of 76 km. from the sea shores of Kozhikode, this verdant hill station is full of plantations, forests and wildlife. Wayanad hills are contiguous to Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandhipur in Karnataka, thus forming a vast land mass for the wild life to move about in their most natural abode.
Wayanad is best known for the wildlife reserves - Wayanad wildlife reserve which is home to an exquisite variety of flora and fauna. Wayanad wildlife reserve is an integral part of the Nilgiri biosphere reserve peacefully located amidst the serene hills of Western Ghats. Wayanad homes a wide variety of wildlife like elephants, leopards, and bears. Wayanad is a perfect weekend idea from the cities of South India. If taking a road trip from Bangalore, you will drive through three national parks: Nagarhole, Bandipur and Mudumalai.
This place doesn’t only offer its cool temperature but along with that, it has untouched woods, misty mountains, and long spread plantations. Often called the spice garden of India, Wayanad is laid with many tourist places and vast orchards of various spices like cardamom, Black pepper, Star Anise, Fenugreek, Black cumin and more. These green orchards of distinct spices give this place a different fragrance which is further enriched with the aroma of coffee plantation, nutrition of organic fruits and vegetables and waving paddy fields.
9. Vagamon
Vagamon is a hill station located in Kottayam- Idukki border of Kerala. It has a cool climate with the temperature between 10-23°C during a summer midday. It is situated 1,100 metres above sea level. Visitors can avail many activities including trekking, paragliding, mountaineering and rock climbing. People love travelling across a chain of three famous hills: Thangal, Murugan and Kurisumala. These are important to Hindus, Muslims and Christians, respectively, and are a perfect example of the communal harmony prevalent in the place. The Kurisumala monks have an enchanting dairy farm nearby that is an absolute delight to visit.
Grass covered hills, velvet lawns and the cool mountain air make Vagamon a perfect holiday retreat. A curious blend of religious mysticism and European legacies, this hillside village is a haven of equanimity. The chain of three hills - Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala - is a mark of religious harmony. The dairy farm managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth a visit. The breeding centre of the Kerala Live Stock Board is also located here.
10. Kozhikode
Nearest railway station: Kozhikode, about 3 km
Kozhikode will always have a special place in the history of Kerala as it is here that Vasco-da-Gama first landed and the legendarySpice Route came into existence. This region still has a historic charm to it. Kozhikode Beach is the personification of the numerous characteristics that make Kozhikode so unique.
Kozhikode District found a place in the World History with the discovery of Sea Route to India in 1498 by the Portuguese Navigator Vasco Da Gama. Vasco Da Gama landed at the Kappad sea shore with three vessels and 170 men. A monument is constucted here to commemorate the historical landing.
Kozhikode was ruled by the Zamorin Royal Family from 12th to 18th century till the British ruler control over it. Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama reached at Kozhikode on 20th May 1498 for trade at Calicut with the consent of Zamorin ruler. After a short period of trading, Portuguese engaged in a clash with Zamorins and it was continued for a long terms till 1588 ad.
Kerala, a surreal destination where the morning brings in the mist and magic. Crafted by the hand of Gods, Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Fondly called the “God’s Own Country”, this is the place where the backwaters hold everyone captive with their alluring silence. Yes, it’s the ‘Spice Capital of India’ where the evening wishes adieu with some of the enchanting melodiesplayed by Mother Nature. Yes, such is the beauty and appeal of Kerala!Let loose the wanderlust in you and plan a trip to this prismatic land; there are an array of places to visit in Kerala.
Though every region of KERALA is full with attractions and beautiful scenery and all the places are counted as must to visit. Some of the best Places to Visit in Kerala are Kovalam, Kottayam, Pallivasal and Kundala. Located on the Malabar Coast, the Indian state of Kerala is blessed by Mother Nature. From enchanting beaches to sparkling backwaters, the paradise-like land houses rich flora and fauna. Besides, the state is popular for its timeless traditions and mouth-watering food.
Top 10 place of Kerala:-
1. Munnar
2. Alleppey
3. Kochi
4. Kumarakom
5. Kovalam
6. Thekkady
7. Bekal
8. Wayanad
9. Vagamon
10. Kozhikode
1. Munnar
Munnar is a popular hill-station of Kerala perched at an altitude of 1600 metres in the Western Ghats. Famous for its tea estates, various shades of green, blankets of mist and craggy peaks, Munnar is aptly known as the 'Kashmir of South India'. Located at the Western Ghats with an average elevation of 1700 meters above sea level, Munnar is a famous hill station in Kerala. The hill station enjoys a favorable and pleasant climate all year round and is famous for its lush green hills and tea plantations.
Munnar is a motley canvas of sloping lush green tea plantations, gushing streams by the hillsides, and winding undulating paths. And there are some absolutely delightful activities to absorb the overwhelming beauty of the largest tea growing region of peninsular India. Activities that everyone must try depending on the time and duration of the visit.
Best places of Munnar-
Top Station
Kundala Lake
Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dairy Farm
Echo Point
Tea Museum
Attukad Waterfalls
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Tea Plantations
Lakkom Water Falls
2. Alleppey
Alappuzha (Alleppey) is known as ‘the Venice of the East’. Offering the best tourist places in Alleppey, this charming place is the hub of Kerala’s backwaters and is home to a huge network of backwaters and more than thousand houseboats. The houseboats you find in the backwaters of Alappuzha are in fact a reworked version of the Kettuvallams of olden times. Kettuvallam is a Malayalam word, ‘Kettu’, means living structures and ‘Vallom’ means boat. In the olden days, kettuvallam or boat with a thatched roof that covers over wooden hulls was used to carry tons of rice and spices.
Emerald green backwaters flanked by paddy fields, long lazy houseboat rides, delicious Appams and Stew, and miles and miles of peace and solitude - say hello to Alleppey! Good news is that all this and much more doesn’t come at a big price. With these insider tips on budget travel and looking out for some exciting deals, you can enjoy a memorable holiday to Alleppey without breaking the bank.
3. Kochi
The city of Kochi, on the southwest coast of India, is an enchanting place that's had an eclectic influence. Known as the "Gateway to Kerala," Kochi's culture and architecture will take you back in time to when the Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese and British occupied the city. The architectural and historical sites in Fort Kochi are the biggest draws for most visitors.
Kochi has its own airport with regular flights connecting major cities. Trains are a cheap and easy mode of travel. Major South Indian cities have buses plying to Kochi. You can also drive to Kochi as the National Highways and connecting roads ensure a smooth drive.
Kochi merchants began trading in spices such as black pepper and cardamom with the Arabs, Dutch, Phoenicians, Portuguese, and Chinese more than 600 years ago. This helped Kochi to prosper and to become the gateway to old India. It was from Kochi that the colonization of India started. Portugal was first to establish its base in Kochi in 1500s, followed by the Dutch and English. The Anglo-Dutch treaty of 1814, compelled the Dutch to hand over Kochi to the British in exchange for Bangka Island in Indonesia. The British managed to establish their influence over Kochi, limiting their direct administration to a small enclave of Fort Kochi and British Ernakulam with their capital at Bolgatty Island.
4. Kumarakom
The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, Darters, Herons, Teals, Waterfowls, Cuckoo, Wild Duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and fascinate all visitors.
Kumarakom,situated 13 Kms away from Kottayam is a sleepy little village on VembanadLake in Kerala. It offers wide variety of flora, exotic sightseeing, boating and fishing experience. The bird sanctuary spread across 14 acres is safe home for many migratory birds like Siberian stork, wild duck etc. They live with other birds in flocks such as darters, herons, egret, waterfowls and cuckoos are fascinating sight for the visitors.
Surrounded by large gardens and swimming pools, the rooms feature wooden ceilings and Asian-style furnishings. Each air-conditioned room has cable TV, a safety deposit box, and tea/coffee making facilities.
5. Kovalam
Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.
Kovalam first received attention when the Regent Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi of Travancore constructed her beach resort, Halcyon Castle, here towards the end of the 1920s. Thereafter the place was brought to the public eye by her nephew the Maharaja of Travancore. The European guests of the then Travancore kingdom discovered the potentiality of Kovalam beach as a tourist destination in the 1930s. However, Kovalam shot into limelight in the early seventies with arrivals of the masses of hippies on their way to Ceylon in the Hippie Trail. This exodus started the transformation of a casual fishing village of Kerala into one of the most important tourist destinations in all India.
Literally meaning “a grove of coconut trees”, Kovalam is barely 10 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Three small beaches comprise the town of Kovalam. Among them, the southernmost beach, Lighthouse Beach, is the most visited one. Once, this beach was an angler’s ecstasy. It still is home to some small villages, just a few kilometers away, which belong to the fishing neighborhood. With time, it has been converted into a happening tourist spot.
6. Thekkady
Thekkady in Kerala State, India's largest wildlife sanctuary is a dream destination for any tourist visiting India . The 120 years old 'Surki' dam built across Peryiar, Poorna in Vedic parlance, is a major tourist attraction. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 Sq.Kms, surrounded by an artificial lake over an area of 25 Sq.Kms.The Country's sole Tiger reserve, Thekkady, with its bountiful treasures of tropical flora and fauna is the ultimate reservoir of many an endangered species and a rich tribal culture. Thekkady is a pleasant heaven on earth for those who love nature in its wild manifestations.
Periyar National Park, being a major attraction, is one place where you can enjoy bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam, hiking, and in the midst of the wilderness, shopping! Popular for its good eating joints, you can also enjoy its vast stretches of spice gardens and various adventure sports. You can also enjoy a night trek in the wilderness of Periyar. The early morning ride in the boat within the sanctuary is an extremely awesome experience and you might be able to spot wild elephants, bisons, wild boars, various kinds of birds, etc.
Periyar National Park, being a major attraction, is one place where you can enjoy bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam, hiking, and in the midst of the wilderness, shopping! Popular for its good eating joints, you can also enjoy its vast stretches of spice gardens and various adventure sports. You can also enjoy a night trek in the wilderness of Periyar. The early morning ride in the boat within the sanctuary is an extremely awesome experience and you might be able to spot wild elephants, bisons, wild boars, various kinds of birds, etc.
7. Bekal
The unique Bekal Fort stands amidst the roaming but heartening music of the seas along with the eternal note of the unending waves, carrying the thrilling memories of a bygone era. This foremost souvenir of the 'Gods own Country' remains undeterred over the ages as a silent witness to centuries of eventful yester years. The Bekal Fort has been a source of attraction for historians, tourists and nature - lovers for centuries since it embodies memories of a glorious past.
Bekal is also far-famed for its striking beaches. During your visit to Bekal, don't miss the famous drink 'Payasam', offered by the Bekal people. Visiting this place in the month of January and March will bring lots of fun and enjoyment as you'll get a glance of 'Theyyam Performance', a ritual dance which is considered as a big affair in the towns of Northern Kerala.
Bekal Fort happens to be the biggest fort of Kerala spreading over forty acres. The important features of this fort are the tank with its flight of steps, the opening of the tunnel towards the South, the magazine for keeping ammunition and the broad and wide steps leading to the Observation Tower is a rarity. From there one has ample view of all the important places in the vicinity like Kanhangad, Pallikare, Bekal, Kottikulam Uduma etc. This observation centre has strategic significance in finding out even the smallest movements of the enemy and ascertaining the safety of the Fort.
8. Wayanad
Wayanad, the green paradise is nestled among the mountains of the Western Ghats, forming the border world of the greener part of Kerala. Clean and pristine, enchanting and hypnotizing, this land is filled with history and culture. Located at a distance of 76 km. from the sea shores of Kozhikode, this verdant hill station is full of plantations, forests and wildlife. Wayanad hills are contiguous to Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandhipur in Karnataka, thus forming a vast land mass for the wild life to move about in their most natural abode.
Wayanad is best known for the wildlife reserves - Wayanad wildlife reserve which is home to an exquisite variety of flora and fauna. Wayanad wildlife reserve is an integral part of the Nilgiri biosphere reserve peacefully located amidst the serene hills of Western Ghats. Wayanad homes a wide variety of wildlife like elephants, leopards, and bears. Wayanad is a perfect weekend idea from the cities of South India. If taking a road trip from Bangalore, you will drive through three national parks: Nagarhole, Bandipur and Mudumalai.
This place doesn’t only offer its cool temperature but along with that, it has untouched woods, misty mountains, and long spread plantations. Often called the spice garden of India, Wayanad is laid with many tourist places and vast orchards of various spices like cardamom, Black pepper, Star Anise, Fenugreek, Black cumin and more. These green orchards of distinct spices give this place a different fragrance which is further enriched with the aroma of coffee plantation, nutrition of organic fruits and vegetables and waving paddy fields.
9. Vagamon
Vagamon is a hill station located in Kottayam- Idukki border of Kerala. It has a cool climate with the temperature between 10-23°C during a summer midday. It is situated 1,100 metres above sea level. Visitors can avail many activities including trekking, paragliding, mountaineering and rock climbing. People love travelling across a chain of three famous hills: Thangal, Murugan and Kurisumala. These are important to Hindus, Muslims and Christians, respectively, and are a perfect example of the communal harmony prevalent in the place. The Kurisumala monks have an enchanting dairy farm nearby that is an absolute delight to visit.
Grass covered hills, velvet lawns and the cool mountain air make Vagamon a perfect holiday retreat. A curious blend of religious mysticism and European legacies, this hillside village is a haven of equanimity. The chain of three hills - Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala - is a mark of religious harmony. The dairy farm managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth a visit. The breeding centre of the Kerala Live Stock Board is also located here.
10. Kozhikode
Nearest railway station: Kozhikode, about 3 km
Kozhikode will always have a special place in the history of Kerala as it is here that Vasco-da-Gama first landed and the legendarySpice Route came into existence. This region still has a historic charm to it. Kozhikode Beach is the personification of the numerous characteristics that make Kozhikode so unique.
Kozhikode District found a place in the World History with the discovery of Sea Route to India in 1498 by the Portuguese Navigator Vasco Da Gama. Vasco Da Gama landed at the Kappad sea shore with three vessels and 170 men. A monument is constucted here to commemorate the historical landing.
Kozhikode was ruled by the Zamorin Royal Family from 12th to 18th century till the British ruler control over it. Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama reached at Kozhikode on 20th May 1498 for trade at Calicut with the consent of Zamorin ruler. After a short period of trading, Portuguese engaged in a clash with Zamorins and it was continued for a long terms till 1588 ad.
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