Kerala
Interesting Places to see around Kerala
Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari- the southern tip of Indian sun continent. Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial and evening witness the majestic sunset.
Trivandrum
Visit Suchindram Temple and visit Sri Padmanabha Temple. (For Ladies Saree and For Men’s Dhoti or Lungi is compulsory). Also visit Napier Museum.
Alleppey
Couple of hours motor boat cruise (optional- cost not included) through the the legendary backwaters of Kerala. On the way you will witness a full range of lifes and activities and some mind boggling sceneries. Evening at leisure.
Thekkady
Periyar lake around which the sanctuary is built, for boating (cost extra). This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing the wild life at close quarters from the safety of a boat.
Munnar
This beautiful hill station was once the summer capital of the British Government in India. The never ending vast expanse of tea plantations and round the year moderate climate makes it a little haven for visitors. Visit Blossom park and Flower garden. Echo point and Mattupetty Dam. Speed boating facilities are available here. The dam is flanked by forests and vast expanse of grass land on one side and the Kundala tea plantation on the other. Afternoon visit Rajamala- house of the highly endangered mountain goats – the Nilgiri Thars.
Cochin
City tour covering Jewish Synagogue, Santa Cruz Basilica, Chinese Fishing nets, Dutch Palace and Antique shops. Visit Museum of Kerala history and and Hills Palace. Spend the evening in Lulu mall for a bit of shopping.
Kovalam
The internationally renowned beach destination. Spend the rest of the day in the sandy beaches of Kovalam flanked by coconut groves on one side and Arabian sea on the other
Athirappilly Falls
Athirappilly Falls, is situated in Athirappilly Panchayat in Chalakudy Taluk of Thrissur District in Kerala, India on the Chalakudy River, which originates from the upper reaches of the Western Ghats at the entrance to the Sholayar ranges. It is the largest waterfall in Kerala.
Guruvayur
Guruvayur is a pilgrimage town in the southwest Indian state of Kerala. It’s known for centuries-old, red-roofed Guruvayur Temple, where Hindu devotees make offerings of fruit, spices or coins, often equivalent to their own weight. Nearby, Mammiyur Mahadeva Temple contains shrines to the deities Vishnu and Shiva. South of town
Thiruvananthapuram- City Of Lord Padmanabhaswamy
The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. Built on seven hills, the pleasant city offers interesting sights that are worth a look. It is a historic as well as the cultural hub of the state in addition to being a modern metropolis. There are many tourist attractions in the city, including temples, gardens, palaces, museums, beaches, backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries and many more.
Alleppey- India’s Own version of Venice
India’s Own Venice, the picturesque town of Alleppey is known for the unique natural spectacle of backwaters. The emerald landscape can be best enjoyed on a houseboat cruise. Experience a secluded holiday on your houseboat with natural bliss for company. Ayurveda, sightseeing and adventures adds to the pleasure of time spent here. Relax in the rejuvenating ambiance, it is one of the places in Kerala you must not miss on your holiday.
Munnar- Romance in the air
Munnar is a beautiful hill station in God’s Own Country. Situated at an altitude of 1600 m, on the confluence of Muthirapuzha, Kundala and Nallathanni Rivers. It is one of the best places for holiday in Kerala, favored by honeymoon couples from all over the globe. In fact Munnar is voted among the best romantic places in the world. Lush sprawling tea plantations, aromatic spice plantations, lovely lakes, mountain streams, rolling hills, etc. make it truly a wonderful destination.
Kumarakom- Haven of Backwaters and Birds
Set on the shores of the serene Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a picturesque town. The network of waters, the abode of birds, sleepy villages and the abundance of heritage resorts offering Ayurveda make it one of the top places to visit in Kerala. Go cruising on the houseboat, enjoy the Ayurvedic treatments and spot birds in their natural habitat. The tranquil ambiance is perfect for relaxing vacations. Kumarakom is one of the top reasons for holidays in Kerala being favored by travelers and honeymoon couples from around the world.
Wayanad- Nature’s Calling
Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Western Ghats, Wayanad is one of the popular travel destination for nature lovers. The district is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, therefore perfect to spend time with nature and indulge in adventures. The emerald beauty of the hills, the mists clouding the roads, thundering waterfalls, uninhibited wildlife, will welcome you to God’s Own Country. Trekking is the lure for adventure enthusiasts whereas honeymoon couples are enchanted by the charming treehouses.
Thekkady – Land of the Wild and Spices
Set in the midst of picturesque natural beauty, Thekkady in the Western Ghats of Kerala is known for the hub of wildlife adventure. The Periyar National Park in the area is a major tourist destination for wildlife lovers. Set in the captivating locales of Thekkady, nature has blessed the lands with abundant of flora, fauna and adventure. The Periyar Lake set in the national park is particularly of interest. Wildlife safaris on boats are only available here. Spot Elephants, Tigers, rare species of birds and other animals unique in the Western Ghats.
Kovalam- Sand, Surf and Sea
Kovalam is one of the beautiful, fun and relaxing beach destinations in India. The popular tourist destination in Kerala is home to a number of luxury accommodations and many Ayurveda massage centers. Spend time walking along the sandy shores, indulge in watersports, get a luxurious massage, and relish delicious sea food. The serene ambiance of the beach is just perfect for a long relaxed day. The pleasant weather add more charm to this little piece of paradise. The beach lures families, honeymoon couples and even solo backpackers seeking to enjoy the sand, sea and surf.
Cochin – Queen of Arabian Sea
The Queen of Arabian Sea, Cochin is one of the top places to see in Kerala. The coastal city has a legacy of history that traces back to the first colonialists who landed on the shores. Beaches, Museums, Churches, modern tourist delights, there is so much for travelers to explore. The multi-ethnic heritage of the city is reflected in its tourist sights, food, shopping and every aspect of the town.
Kozhikode – Charming Beauty with Ancient Legacy
Originally known as Calicut, Kozhikode is famous for its inherent natural beauty, culture, historical sites, educational institutions, and culinary experiences. The town has played a very important role in shaping up the colonial era of India. The Dutch and the British colonial era have left strong influence on the city. Named among the best places to visit in Kerala, Kozhikode is known for its authentic Malabar food. The cuisines are definitely mouthwatering and must be given a try. Kozhikode has everything what one requires to make it a perfect holiday.
Varkala – Quaint Hamlet by the Sea
When it comes to the unrivalled bliss of Kerala, it’s not fair to not talk about Varkala, one of of the best beach destinations in India. Set along the shores of Arabian Sea, the beauty takes your breath away. The quietude of the beach is noteworthy. Soft sands are lined by lush palm groves and playful waves. Varkala is quite away from the throngs of tourists and is one of the serene locales. Get an Ayurvedic massage on one of the beach centres and you will be revitalized.
Kadalivanam Caves
At a distance of 22 Kms from Srisailam and 12 Kms from Akka Mahadevi Caves, Kadalivanam Caves are natural caves with lot of history attached to it. After reaching Akka Mahadevi Caves on Motor Boat from Srisailam, trekking through multiple mountains for a distance of 12 Kms will take you to this place. This is a huge cave like natural rock shelter which can accommodate nearly 500 persons comfortably. Near the rock shelter flows a stream and evidences of stone age man in the form of stone tools were discovered. Akkal Maharaj, who is a famous saint in Maharashtra did penance at this place for several years before heading to Maharashtra.
Wayanad
Wayanad’s rich history stretches back to the Neolithic Age, with the Edakkal Caves being one of the oldest signs of human settlement to be discovered. The caves seem to have been inhabited by several human settlersover the course of time. Even though very little is known about these ancient settlers, the cave paintings at Edakkal, the burial sites discovered around the caves, and the ancient earthenware found within are proof of their existence. The region is home to some of the oldest temples in India and also played a pivotal role in the worldwide spice trade. In fact it was the legendary spice gardens of Wayanad that prompted the European powers to establish direct sea routes to India. Many a war has been fought for the dominion of this lucrative trade. Even now the best pepper in the world comes from Wayanad’s green slopes.
Bekal Fort
Built almost 300 years ago, Bekal Fort is considered as one of the largest and most preserved forts in Kerala. Nestled in the lap of nature, Bekal Fort is a historic fort surrounded by a beautiful beach offering an enchanting view of Arabian Sea from its high observation tower where once the cannons were placed. The beautiful walkway, illuminated beach and the grand architecture of the Bekal Fort make this place a favourite among the masses. The fort was featured in the popular A R Rahman song ‘ Tu hi re’.
Bekal Beach
Bekal Fort Beach is a splendid seashore in the district of Kasaragod in God’s Own Country, Kerala, India. The beach expands over an area of 36 acres and is well known for being the location of Bekal Fort and for being maintained well. The dense palm trees, the splendid sea, the golden sand and the grand walls of the fort together form the picturesque location. Tourists from all over the world visit the beach for its beauty and serenity. One may take a nice long relaxing stroll across the beach or just enjoy the sunset in the sand. Bekal beach is a perfect destination for a day-long picnic. Tourists can enter the Bekal Fort and explore the interiors of the fort. The view of the beach from the top of the fort is a breathtaking view. Other than the fort, tourists can also explore the rock garden which is situated only a kilometre away from the beach.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a village on Vembanad Lake in the backwaters of Kerala, southern India. It’s laced with canals, where houseboats ply the waters. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is home to many species including cuckoos and Siberian storks. Nearby, the Bay Island Driftwood Museum displays wooden sculptures. In the lake, Pathiramanal Island is a haven for rare migratory birds. Ancient Thazhathangady Mosque is east of Kumarakom.