Kerala is blessed with diverse landscape and due to its enchanting beauty it is dubbed as “God’s Own Country.” Located in the south-west coast of India, Kerala is known for its enchanting backwaters, serene and peaceful beaches, remote villages, misty hills, and rich culture and tradition. Whether you are nature lover, history buff, adventure seeker or culture lover, Tours India makes sure that you are going to have the best experience in Kerala.
Here is a short guide to know about the top places to visit and activities to experience in Kerala, which you must definitely include in your India Tour Packages.
1. Alleppey: For the best backwater experience
For the best backwater experience, Alleppey tops the list in Kerala. Due to its enchanting beauty it is referred to as “Venice of the East.” When you take the houseboat cruise ride in Alleppey, you will be welcomed by coconut palms and remote villages.
Top Activities to do in Alleppey:
- Houseboat Cruise: Take a houseboat cruise: Glide through serene and peaceful Vembanad Lake in a traditional houseboat, known as Kettuvallam. In the past these boats were used as a means of transportation to carry goods, now they have been converted into well-equipped modern facilities, perfect for stay.
- Canoe Tours: For a more immersive experience, you can take a canoe tour in the smaller canals; know the daily lifestyle of the people.
- Ayurvedic Spa Treatments: For relaxation, choose Ayurvedic spa treatment (get a massage using herbal oils)
2. Munnar: Known for its breathtaking Tea Gardens and Misty Hills
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is not only the top hill-station of Kerala, but in India due to its lush greenery, misty hills, tea plantations and cool climate.
Top Activities to do in Munnar:
- Explore the tea gardens: Take tour of the tea estates, see how the tea is plucked, processed, and brewed. Visit the tea museum and engage in tea tasting sessions as well.
- Trek to Anamudi Peak: Trekking to Anamudi Peak: Take a thrilling trek to the highest peak of South India (2,695 m), from the top enjoy panoramic views of the landscape.
- Eravikulam National Park: If you want to get close to wildlife, head this national park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the famous Neelakurinji flowers which blooms every 12 years.
3. Thekkady: Wildlife exploration in Periyar
Thekkady is a heaven for nature and wildlife lovers have a wonderful time getting close to nature. It is in fact home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, navigate through the dense forests and watch the wild animals up close. Don’t miss to include Thekkady India Tour Packages, if you want to have the best wildlife exploration.
Top Activities to do in Thekkady:
- Boat Safari on Periyar Lake: One of the interesting highlight of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is that you can take a cruise along the Periyar Lake to explore wildlife. Have a close encounter with the elephants, bison, and possibly tigers.
- Trek through the Jungle: In Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, you can take local guided treks to explore deep into the jungle.
- Bamboo Rafting: The only wildlife sanctuary where you can enjoy thrilling bamboo rafting, glide through the waterways of the jungle.
Agra lets you have a taste of the artistic, romantic, and imperial legacies of India’s Mughal era, offering travelers one of the most enriching experiences.
4. Kochi: Explore the coastal region and know about the culture
You can say that Kochi is the melting point of different cultures in Kerala. Here the region is influence of Portuguese, Dutch, Arab, and British.
Top Activities to do in Kochi:
- Fort Kochi: Explore the colonial fort in Kochi, and in its coasts are the Chinese fishing nets, offering a breathtaking scene.
- Head to Mattancherry Palace and Jewish Synagogue: Visit these places and know about its rich history and culture.
- Watch Kathakali Performance: To know about the culture and tradition of the region, watch the traditional Kathakali Performance. In this dance form, it involves expressive storytelling through makeup, costumes, and gestures.
5. Wayanad: Green paradise and know about the Tribal Culture
Tours India makes sure that you visit some of the offbeat places as well. Visit Wayanad, known for its rich ecosystem is a district in northern Kerala that offers a unique experience. It is dense forests (comprising of varied species of flora), stunning waterfalls, and spice plantations creates a captivating atmosphere.
Top Activities to do in Wayanad:
- Trek to Chembra Peak: Take a thrilling trek to Chembra Peak, which is famous for its heart shaped lake on the route.
- Explore Edakkal Caves: Be stunned to see the prehistoric petroglyphs, letting you know that mankind lived in this area thousands of years back.
- Stay in Tree Houses: Those craving for some unique stay experience and breathtaking views don’t miss a stay in these eco-friendly tree houses.
6. Varkala: The dramatic Cliffside experience
Varkala is known for its dramatic Cliff that drops into the Arabian Sea. From the cliff enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding.
Top Activities to do in Varkala:
- Varkala Beach: Relax on the beach
- Paragliding from Cliffs: Thrill seekers can opt for paragliding; from the sky enjoy aerial views of the coastline.
- Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple: Offer your prayers in this temple, it is a 2,000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
7. Kovalam: Tranquil beaches and Ayurveda retreat
Another famous beach destination is Kovalam, here you can enjoy beach activities and engage in wellness retreats.
Top Activities to do in Kovalam:
- Lighthouse Beach: Explore the beach near the lighthouse
- Enjoy surfing, swimming and sunbathing
- Enjoy Sunset at Vizhinjam Lighthouse
- For rejuvenation, choose for Ayurveda Retreats at luxury spas or authentic ashrams
8. Kumarakom: Quiet backwater experience and bird watching
Kumarakom is another backwater destination in Kerala, situated at the banks of Vembanad Lake and is home to more than hundred species of birds.
Top Activities to do in Kumarakom:
- Head Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Engage in bird watching, spot migratory birds like kingfishers, Siberian cranes, and egrets.
- Take a Shikara Ride on the Lake: Have an enthralling time, enjoying a shikara ride on the Lake through the narrow canals.
- Stay at Lake Resorts: Stay at a luxury resort near the riverside, choose lake-facing cottages, so that you are able to enjoy the mesmerizing views of the landscape.
9. Thrissur: Land of vibrant festivals
For having an immersive cultural experience, head to the cultural capital of Kerala, it hosts some of the liveliest festivals.
Top Activities to do in Thrissur:
- Attend Thrissur Pooram: This is one of the grand temple festivals, where the elephants are decorated, accompanied with fireworks, and traditional music.
- Visit Vadakkunnathan Temple: This is an ancient temple, due to its amazing architectural design it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Kerala Kalamandalam: To watch the classical dance forms and listening to the classical music visit here.
10. Bekal: Quiet beaches and fascinating Forts
If you wish to escape to a peaceful beach, visit Bekal, which also houses the historic Bekal fort.
Top Activities to do in Bekal:
- Explore Bekal Fort: A 17th-century seaside fort offering panoramic views.
- This is a 17th century colonial fort, known for its incredible views.
- Watch the sunset at the Bekal Beach.
Are you ready to visit Kerala? With Tours India have a wonderful time exploring the best of Kerala.
