BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN KERALA

Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is a beautiful state in southern India that boasts a rich blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. There’s so much to explore here! Some top places to visit in Kerala include:

 

1. Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Known for its serene backwaters, houseboats, and picturesque landscapes, Alleppey is a popular destination for a backwater cruise. You can rent a houseboat and cruise through the narrow canals, surrounded by lush greenery.

2. Munnar

A hill station famous for its tea gardens, cool climate, and scenic landscapes. It's perfect for trekking, nature walks, and exploring places like the Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, and Eravikulam National Park.

3. Kochi (Cochin)

A vibrant city with a rich blend of colonial and modern architecture. Visit the Fort Kochi area, the historic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the famous Kochi-Muziris Biennale art exhibition.

 4. Thekkady

Home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is perfect for nature lovers. You can go on a boat safari in Periyar Lake and spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. Spice plantations and trekking trails are also popular here.

5. Varkala

A beautiful coastal town with stunning cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. Varkala Beach is known for its laid-back vibe, and the Papanasam Beach is believed to have sacred waters for a spiritual dip.

6. Kumarakom

Another scenic backwater destination, located near Vembanad Lake. You can enjoy houseboat cruises, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, or relax in the luxurious resorts by the lake.

7. Wayanad

A picturesque district in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Visit Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, and Soochipara Waterfalls. It's great for trekking, wildlife spotting, and exploring spice plantations.

8. Thrissur

Known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is famous for its vibrant festivals, especially the Thrissur Pooram, a grand temple festival with elephant processions, fireworks, and music. The town also has ancient temples and historical monuments.

9. Sabarimala

One of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, located in the Western Ghats. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and attracts millions of devotees each year.

10. Kovalam

A beach town with a laid-back atmosphere, Kovalam has beautiful sandy beaches like Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and Ayurvedic treatments.

11. Bekal

 Known for the Bekal Fort, one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala, and the beautiful Bekal Beach nearby. The fort offers stunning views of the sea and is perfect for a peaceful getaway.

12. Athirappilly

Known as the "Niagara of India," Athirappilly is a stunning waterfall located in the Thrissur district. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.

 

 

13. Nanda Devi

If you're into trekking and adventure, Nanda Devi in the northern part of Kerala offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to trek through dense forests and hills.

14. Munroe Island

Located at the confluence of the Vembanadu Lake and the Ashtamudi Lake, Munroe Island is known for its tranquil atmosphere, backwater cruises, and unique culture that blends Keralite and Tamil influences.

Beaches and mountains

v Kerala offers a wonderful blend of stunning beaches and picturesque mountains, perfect for anyone looking to explore both. Here's a mix of beach and mountain destinations you should check out:

 

Beaches in Kerala

1. Varkala Beach

Known for its unique cliffs that rise majestically above the Arabian Sea, Varkala offers a serene atmosphere and is perfect for relaxing or watching the sunset. The beach also has spiritual significance, with the Papanasam Beach believed to have holy waters.

 

2. Kovalam Beach

A popular beach resort destination near Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam is famous for its crescent-shaped beaches. The Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach are all great spots for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in Ayurvedic spa treatments.

3. Bekal Beach

Located near the Bekal Fort, this beach is less crowded and ideal for those seeking peace and solitude. The view from the Bekal Fort overlooking the beach is stunning, and the fort is also great for a bit of history.

4. Cherai Beach

Near Kochi, Cherai Beach is perfect for swimming and water sports. It offers a lovely combination of both backwaters and the sea, giving visitors a unique experience of Kerala’s coastal beauty.

5. Munambam Beach

A quieter and more isolated spot, Munambam Beach near Kochi is known for its peaceful atmosphere and lovely view of the sea. It's perfect for a peaceful evening walk.

 

 

 

Mountains and Hill Stations in Kerala

6. Munnar

Munnar is the most famous hill station in Kerala. Famous for its sprawling tea plantations, cool climate, and breathtaking landscapes, Munnar is perfect for nature walks, trekking, and visits to places like Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, and Mattupetty Dam.

7. Wayanad

A beautiful district in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is filled with lush greenery, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and trekking spots. Popular attractions include Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Soochipara Waterfalls, and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

8. Thekkady

Thekkady is known for its Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and picturesque landscapes. You can enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, which offers views of the surrounding hills and wildlife. The area is also known for spice plantations and trekking trails.

9. Vythiri

Vythiri, located in Wayanad, is a serene hill station surrounded by forests and spice plantations. It's perfect for trekking, and places like Lakkidi View Point and Pookode Lake make it a peaceful retreat.

10. Idukki

Idukki, with its mountains, valleys, and waterfalls, is a beautiful destination for nature lovers. It's home to the Idukki Dam and several scenic spots like the Painavu Dam, and it's also a great place for wildlife spotting.

11. Agasthyakoodam

This is the second-highest peak in Kerala, located in the Western Ghats. It's a haven for trekkers and nature lovers, offering an incredible variety of flora and fauna. The trek is quite challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the surrounding forests.

12. Parunthumpara

Located in the Idukki district, Parunthumpara is known for its beautiful green landscapes and high hills. The spot offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and is less crowded compared to other hill stations, making it ideal for peaceful retreats.

13. Nelliampathi

Known for its misty mountains, Nelliampathi is often called the "Ooty of Kerala." The scenic drive through dense forests and plantations, along with views from the peak, make it an excellent getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

 

Combining Both: Beaches and Mountains

For those looking to experience both the mountains and the sea, some areas in Kerala offer a mix of both:

1.Kovalam:

It’s a great base to explore both beaches and hill stations nearby. You can enjoy the beaches, then take a day trip to the hills of Agasthyakoodam or Nelliyampathi.

2.Wayanad:

This region is surrounded by mountains, and though not directly on the coast, it’s close enough for a combination of mountain experiences and a coastal trip to Varkala or Kovalam.

 

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