Kerala is a surreal destination where mornings bring mist and magic. Affectionately known as “God's own country,” this is a place where backwaters imprison people with their seductive silence. Yes, it is the “Spice Capital of India”, where the evening is bid farewell to the enchanting melodies gifted by Mother Nature. Yes, that is the beauty and charm of Kerala! Unleash your wanderlust and plan a trip to this prismatic land. There are many places to visit in Kerala. Make sure you visit all these destinations and make some of the most enjoyable memories of your trip. And in case you are having trouble deciding which destination to visit, here is a curated list of travel destinations that will fill your travel stories with joy, fun, and excitement:
Kerala is situated on the Malabar Coast of India, and most of its area is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west. It is known for its lush green landscapes, backwaters, and tropical forests. Kerala has a rich historical heritage, with a history dating back to ancient times. It was a prominent center for trade and commerce, attracting merchants from different parts of the world. It was also home to several ancient kingdoms, including the Chera dynasty.
Capital and Major Cities: Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala, while other major cities include Kochi (Cochin), Kozhikode (Calicut), and Thrissur.
Language: Malayalam is the official language of Kerala. English is also widely spoken and understood, especially in urban areas and among the educated population.
Culture: Kerala has a rich cultural heritage with a blend of various influences, including Dravidian, Aryan, and European. It is known for its classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as traditional music and art. The state is also famous for its vibrant festivals, including Onam, which is the most important and widely celebrated.
Cuisine: Kerala cuisine is diverse and known for its use of spices and flavors. Rice is a staple food, and seafood is widely consumed due to the state's long coastline. Some popular dishes include dosa, idli, appam, and various types of curries, including the famous Kerala Sadya.
Tourism: Kerala is a popular tourist destination, often referred to as "God's Own Country." The state is famous for its scenic backwaters, houseboat cruises, tea and spice plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, and beautiful hill stations like Munnar. The state also boasts a number of pristine beaches, including Kovalam and Varkala.
Healthcare and Education: Kerala has one of the highest literacy rates and Human Development Index (HDI) in India. The state's healthcare system is well-developed, and it has a high life expectancy compared to the national average.
Economy: The economy of Kerala is diverse, with a strong focus on agriculture, tourism, and services. Remittances from Keralites working abroad, particularly in the Middle East, play a significant role in the state's economy.
Environment: Kerala is known for its efforts in environmental conservation and sustainable development. It has a range of protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries, as well as initiatives to promote organic farming and eco-tourism.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
The best time to visit Kerala depends on your preferences and the type of experience you want to have. Kerala has a tropical climate, and it experiences three primary seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. If you prefer pleasant weather and outdoor activities, winter is the ideal season. However, if you want to experience Kerala in its full green glory and don't mind occasional rains, the monsoon season can provide a unique and refreshing experience. Summer is suitable for hill station visits, but if you are planning a backwater tour, that may not be the best choice for coastal and backwater areas due to the heat and humidity.Here's a breakdown of the different seasons in Kerala and the best times to visit:
Winter (October to February)
This is the most popular time to visit Kerala, as the weather is pleasant and relatively dry. The temperature during winter ranges from 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 89°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It's an excellent time for beach vacations, backwater cruises, and exploring hill stations like Munnar. Many festivals and cultural events occur during this time, including the grand celebration of Onam in September or October.
Summer (March to May)
The summer season in Kerala can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 36°C (89°F to 97°F). While the coastal areas can be quite warm, the hill stations remain cooler and are a good choice for a summer retreat. This season is suitable for exploring wildlife sanctuaries and tea plantations in places like Thekkady and Wayanad.
Monsoon (June to September)
Kerala experiences heavy monsoon rains during this period, which can be quite intense and continuous. While it's not the ideal time for outdoor activities, it's a great time to experience the lush green landscapes and rejuvenate at Ayurvedic wellness centers. The monsoon season is perfect for travelers seeking an off-season experience and a quieter, more authentic feel in Kerala. It's important to note that some tourist activities and outdoor excursions may be limited during the monsoon.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Munnar: Munnar is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, lush green landscapes, and cool climate. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers and offers opportunities for trekking, bird watching, and visiting tea factories.
Alleppey (Alappuzha): Alleppey is famous for its backwaters, houseboat cruises, and serene lakes. A houseboat journey through the backwaters is a must-do experience. The town is also known for its beautiful beaches.
Kochi (Cochin): Kochi is a vibrant city with a rich history and a blend of various cultures. Visit Fort Kochi for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and a spice market. The city also hosts cultural festivals and events.
Kovalam: Kovalam is a popular beach destination known for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach are among the main attractions. Kovalam also offers water sports and opportunities for rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments.
Thekkady: Thekkady is home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants and tigers. The region is also known for its spice plantations and offers trekking and boating opportunities.
Wayanad: Wayanad is a beautiful hilly district with lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. Explore Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, and the Banasura Sagar Dam. It's an ideal destination for trekking and nature enthusiasts.
Kumarakom: Kumarakom is another serene backwater destination known for its bird sanctuary and beautiful Vembanad Lake. It's an excellent place to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the backwaters.
Varkala: Varkala is a beach town with stunning cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. Papanasam Beach is known for its natural spring and religious significance. Varkala is also famous for yoga and Ayurvedic treatments.
Poovar: Poovar is a lesser-known gem with a tranquil estuary, golden sand beaches, and lush greenery. You can explore Poovar Island and relax in its serene surroundings.
Palakkad: Palakkad is known for its lush landscapes, serene lakes, and historic sites like the Palakkad Fort. The area is also known for its traditional music and dance forms.
Bekal: Bekal is famous for its historic Bekal Fort, which is set against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea. It's a scenic place to explore, relax on the beaches, and take in the coastal beauty.
Thrissur: Thrissur is known for its cultural heritage, including the Thrissur Pooram festival, which is one of the most famous temple festivals in Kerala. The city also boasts several temples, museums, and art galleries.
Popular Tour Packages of Kerala
Kerala offers a wide range of popular tour packages to cater to the different interests and preferences of travelers. These tour packages are designed to showcase the diverse attractions and experiences that Kerala has to offer. Here are some of the popular tour packages you can consider when planning your visit to Kerala:
Backwater Houseboat Tours:
Explore the tranquil backwaters of Kerala on a houseboat tour. These packages typically include a stay on a traditional houseboat, where you can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Kerala Hill Station Tours:
Experience the lush greenery and cool climate of Kerala's hill stations. Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady are often included in these packages, with opportunities for trekking, wildlife encounters, and exploring tea and spice plantations.
Cultural and Heritage Tours:
Immerse yourself in Kerala's rich culture and heritage with tours that cover historical sites, ancient temples, and traditional art forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. Kochi, Thrissur, and Palakkad are popular destinations for cultural tours.
Kerala Ayurveda Tour and Wellness Retreats:
Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments and wellness centers. These packages offer rejuvenating experiences with Ayurvedic massages, yoga, and meditation in serene surroundings.
Kerala Wildlife and Adventure Tours:
Explore the biodiversity of Kerala's wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary are often included in these packages, providing opportunities for safaris and trekking.
Kerala Beach Holidays:
Kerala's beautiful beaches, such as Kovalam, Varkala, and Alleppey, are perfect for a relaxing beach vacation. Beach holiday packages offer beachfront accommodations and water sports activities.
Kerala Tea and Spice Plantation Tours:
Kerala is known for its tea and spice plantations. Tour packages allow you to explore these plantations, learn about the cultivation process, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills.
Kerala Adventure Tours and Water Sports Packages:
If you're an adventure enthusiast, Kerala offers activities like trekking, river rafting, kayaking, and paragliding. You can find packages that cater to these activities, especially in adventure hubs like Wayanad.
Kerala Religious and Pilgrimage Tours:
Kerala has several temples, churches, and mosques of historical and religious significance. Pilgrimage tours take you to these sacred places, including the Guruvayur Temple, Sabarimala, and more.
Kerala Honeymoon Tour Packages:
Kerala is popularly known for its honeymoon destination, and on many of our tours, we offer special packages for newlywed couples and for gateway weekends. These packages typically include romantic stays in secluded resorts, houseboat cruises, and leisurely beach visits.
Customized Tours:
We also offer customizable Kerala tour packages, allowing you to tailor your itinerary to match your specific interests and preferences.