Kerala, a state situated in the southwestern region of India, is a popular destination for tourists all around the world. With its serene backwaters, lush green hills, and breathtaking beaches, Kerala is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 places to visit in Kerala that will make your trip to this beautiful state memorable.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Munnar
- Alleppey
- Thekkady
- Kovalam
- Kochi
- Wayanad
- Varkala
- Kumarakom
- Thrissur
- Conclusion
- FAQs
1. Introduction
Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is a state in India that is famous for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and traditional cuisine. Kerala is blessed with abundant natural resources, including serene backwaters, lush green forests, and stunning beaches. Kerala is also known for its Ayurvedic treatments and various cultural festivals. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 places to visit in Kerala that will provide you with a lifetime experience.
2. Munnar
Munnar is a picturesque hill station in Kerala and is known for its lush green tea plantations. The town is located at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level and is situated in the Western Ghats range of mountains. Munnar is also famous for its wildlife and bird sanctuaries, including the Eravikulam National Park. The park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and visitors can take a guided tour to explore the park and its wildlife.
3. Alleppey
Alleppey is a town situated in the Alappuzha district of Kerala and is known for its serene backwaters. The town is also known as the “Venice of the East” and is famous for its houseboat cruises. Visitors can take a houseboat tour and explore the beautiful backwaters, which are a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes.
4. Thekkady
Thekkady is a town located in the Idukki district of Kerala and is known for its wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and sambars. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and explore the wildlife and flora of the region. Thekkady is also known for its spice plantations, and visitors can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the various spices grown in the region.
5. Kovalam
Kovalam is a beautiful beach town located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. The town is famous for its three beaches – Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach. Visitors can enjoy water sports, sunbathing, and swimming at the beaches. The town is also known for its Ayurvedic treatments, and visitors can take a spa treatment and rejuvenate themselves.
6. Kochi
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a major port city in Kerala and is known for its historical significance. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to various historical monuments, including the Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, and the St. Francis Church. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the backwaters and explore the beautiful scenery of the region.
7. Wayanad
Wayanad is a beautiful hill station located in the northern part of Kerala. The town is known for its scenic beauty, lush green forests, and wildlife sanctuaries. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and bison. The town is also famous for its ancient temples, including the Thirunelli Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
8. Varkala
Varkala is a beautiful coastal town located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. The town is known for its stunning beaches, including the Varkala Beach and the Papanasam Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and surfing at the beaches. The town is also famous for its ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
9. Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a beautiful village situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in Kerala. The village is famous for its backwaters, and visitors can take a boat tour and explore the beautiful scenery of the region. The village is also known for its Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to various migratory birds, including Siberian storks, herons, and egrets.
10. Thrissur
Thrissur, also known as the “Cultural Capital of Kerala,” is a city located in the Thrissur district of Kerala. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to various temples, including the Vadakkumnathan Temple and the Paramekkavu Temple. The city is also famous for its Thrissur Pooram festival, which is celebrated in April and May every year and is known for its grandeur and spectacle.
Conclusion
Kerala is a state that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The top 10 places mentioned in this article are just a few of the many beautiful destinations that Kerala has to offer. Visitors to Kerala can explore the lush green forests, serene backwaters, and stunning beaches, and experience the traditional culture and cuisine of the region. Kerala is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Kerala? The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March.
- What are the must-try dishes in Kerala? Some must-try dishes in Kerala include appam, puttu, fish curry, and Kerala-style biryani.
- What are the popular water sports in Kerala? Some popular water sports in Kerala include kayaking, canoeing, and windsurfing.
- Is Kerala a safe destination for solo female travelers? Yes, Kerala is a safe destination for solo female travelers.
- What is the average cost of a houseboat tour in Kerala? The average cost of a houseboat tour in Kerala varies depending on the duration and the type of houseboat. It can range from INR 5,000 to INR 20,000 per night.