At one end Kerala lies serenely between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats—a land of backwaters, green and lush, adorned with a rich cultural heritage. Often considered God’s Own Country, Kerala, enchanting southern India, has something to offer everyone—adventure seekers, nature lovers, or simply those wanting absolute tranquility! Now let’s explore the top ten things that you can do in Kerala, which will give you an amazing visit.
Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey
Often called the “Venice of the East,” the place is well-known for its backwaters. Cruising these slow-paced waterways in a houseboat is among the must-do activities in Kerala. Let the lush paddy fields, rustic countryside, and gentle swaying coconut trees pass by as you savour some exquisite Kerala fare on board. A tranquil vacation that will leave you rejuvenated.
Munnar Tea Gardens
Spread far and wide, the Munnar tea gardens shall surprise you. Its refreshing weather and misty hills make this hill station just perfect for taking a walk amidst its expanses of tea plantations. Get first-hand knowledge of how tea is processed with the help of a guided tour inside a tea factory or just enjoy some panoramic views of the sprawling tea plantation from Echo Point and Top Station. The smell of tea leaves and the cool mountain breeze will make your trip worthwhile.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary is situated in Thekkady and offers a lovely retreat for nature lovers. Take a thrilling boat ride around Periyar Lake and catch a glimpse of all the elephants, sambar deer, and, if you are lucky, tigers too! Apart from these, there are also several kinds of birds along with rich flora in the sanctuary. Those who have a certain sense of adventure in them, can venture into the wild with a guided jungle trek and even bamboo rafting.
Be an Onlooker of the Beautiful Sunset at Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach is famous for its crescent-shaped coast and white sands. Come dusk, and the beach transforms into a fairyland as orange and pink hues paint the sky. Relax on the soft sands, take a dip in the warm waters, or indulge in some fresh seafood at the nearby shacks. Kovalam, then, is where the world turns by to relax.
Kathakali Cultural Extravaganza
In this, the rich cultural heritage of Kerala comes to life through Kathakali, which is a classical dance drama that narrates stories of ancient epics through elaborate costumes, highly detailed facial expressions, and good skills in the use of the body to communicate with gestures. Catch one of these performances at the Kerala Kathakali Centre in Kochi or at other cultural venues throughout the state for the hypnotizing experience of gaining deep insights into Kerala’s artistic traditions.
Unwind with an Ayurvedic Spa
Kerala is the home of Ayurveda, and a visit to the state is incomplete without experiencing traditional Ayurvedic spa therapy. The healing therapies are based on ancient practices and have natural oils and herbs that cure your body, mind, and soul. You will walk out fresh and completely energized after that massage, herbal steam bath, or detoxifying treatment for your entire body.
Spice Plantations in Wayanad
Standing in the greenness of the dense forest and rolling hills, Wayanad harbors some finest spice plantations in the country. Visit these plantations and learn from the manual how to grow cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and many more capturing the heady aroma. Do not forget to get your bags filled with some freshly ground aromatic spices!
Marvel at the Athirappilly Waterfalls
Often referred to as the “Niagara of India,” this water body is a spectacular sight, particularly in the monsoon months when it is so powerful. The waterfall comes down from a height of 80 feet, thus causing mists in and around the place. Have a picnic near the falls, or trek along a forest path to be able to see this wonder of nature up close.
Visit the Historic Fort Kochi
Visit Fort Kochi to enjoy a cultural concoction of modern and historic relics. You can stroll down its narrow streets, bordered by colonial buildings; visit the famous Chinese fishing nets; and view St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. The streets are full of vibrant street art, bustling markets, and cozy cafes. Fort Kochi is full of history and shows a flavor of multi-culture; therefore, it is very engaging for tourists.
Trek to Chembra Peak
For adventure enthusiasts, trekking to Chembra Peak in Wayanad is an exhilarating experience. The path goes by some tea plantations and through the forests, rewarding you with some panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. At the peak is a heart-shaped lake—a popular spot for photos. It is an adrenaline-packed yet rewarding experience that shows another side of Kerala’s beauty in its natural state.
From tranquil backwaters to majestic hills, Kerala is waiting for you with a treasure trove of experiences. Be it cruising through the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey, wading through the expansive tea gardens of Munnar, or trekking to the peaks of Chembra; every moment spent in Kerala is one of uniqueness and beauty. So pack your bags, come set on this journey, and get experiences of a lifetime in God’s Own Country.
