Kerala

Kerala

Kerala, situated on the southwestern coast of India, is renowned for its enchanting backwaters, palm-fringed beaches, and lush greenery. The state's backwaters, particularly in Alleppey and Kumarakom, offer a unique experience with houseboat cruises, showcasing Kerala's serene landscapes and traditional village life along the waterways. The hill stations of Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady captivate visitors with their cool climate, sprawling tea gardens, and opportunities for wildlife encounters. Kerala's rich biodiversity is evident in its wildlife sanctuaries like Periyar and Wayanad, home to a variety of flora and fauna. The state's coastline is dotted with pristine beaches such as Kovalam, Varkala, and Cherai, offering sun-soaked sands and azure waters for relaxation and water activities. Kerala's cultural heritage is vibrant, with traditional art forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, and the classical dance form, Bharatanatyam, captivating audiences. The state's cuisine is another highlight, featuring aromatic spices, coconut-infused dishes, and a variety of seafood delicacies.Additionally, Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments and wellness therapies, attracting visitors seeking rejuvenation and healing. Kerala's diverse attractions, coupled with its warm hospitality and scenic beauty, make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and culturally enriching experience.

Highly Recommended Places to Visit in Kerala 

Kerala offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations that cater to all kinds of travelers. Some of the highly recommended places to visit in Kerala include:

Munnar

Known for its tea plantations, lush greenery, and cool climate, Munnar is a popular hill station offering stunning views and opportunities for trekking and wildlife spotting .Tea Gardens Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy scenic views. Eravikulam National Park Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers a chance to see rare wildlife and enjoy trekking. Mattupetty Dam This dam is a popular picnic spot with boating facilities amidst serene surroundings. These are some major points that people are more attracted to visit Munnar. 

Alleppey (Alappuzha) 

Famous for its backwaters, Alleppey offers houseboat cruises along the tranquil waterways, providing a unique experience of Kerala's rural life. Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a beautiful destination in Kerala, India, known for its picturesque backwaters, serene beaches, and lush landscapes. It's famous for houseboat cruises along the backwaters, offering a unique experience of Kerala's rural life and scenic beauty. The Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, and Pathiramanal Island are popular attractions. The town is also known for its traditional boat races, especially the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held annually. Alleppey is a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and experience the rich culture of Kerala.

Kochi (Cochin)

 A vibrant city with a blend of modernity and tradition, Kochi is known for its historical sites, cultural diversity, and the picturesque Chinese fishing nets. Paragliding isn't as popular in Cochin as it is in some other parts of India, but the city offers plenty of other attractions and activities for tourists.  Some popular things to do in Cochin include Exploring the historic Fort Kochi area with its colonial architecture and famous Chinese fishing nets. Visiting the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, to see its Kerala murals and artifacts. Exploring the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, the Jewish Synagogue, with its exquisite Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Cochin. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or nature, Cochin has something for everyone.

Kumarakom 

Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a serene village known for its bird sanctuary, backwater cruises, and Ayurvedic resorts. Backwaters Experience the serene backwaters of Kumarakom by taking a houseboat cruise or a traditional 'kettuvallam' ride. Enjoy the scenic views of palm-fringed lakes, paddy fields, and local villages. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Explore this renowned bird sanctuary, home to a variety of bird species such as herons, egrets, darters, and kingfishers. The best time to visit is during the migratory season from November to February. Vembanad Lake Take a boat ride on the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings and stunning sunsets. Kumarakom offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Thekkady

Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering boat cruises, trekking, and bamboo rafting. Periyar National Park Famous for its wildlife sanctuary, offering a chance to spot elephants, tigers, and other animals in their natural habitat through boat cruises and jungle treks. Periyar Lake  A scenic artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam, where boat cruises are popular for wildlife viewing and enjoying the serene surroundings. Spice Plantations Thekkady is surrounded by spice plantations where you can take guided tours to learn about spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and clove. Nature Walks and Trekking The area around Thekkady offers several trekking trails and nature walks, allowing you to explore the rich flora and fauna of the region. Thekkady is a great destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation in the lap of nature.

Wayanad

Known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries, Wayanad offers a tranquil escape amidst nature, with attractions like Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagar Dam.  Chembra Peak The highest peak in Wayanad, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a popular trekking destination. Edakkal Caves These ancient caves contain petroglyphs, rock engravings dating back to the Neolithic age, and offer insights into the region's history. Soochipara Waterfalls A three-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense forests, offering a refreshing escape and an ideal spot for trekking and swimming. Wayanad is a perfect destination for nature lovers, offering a blend of adventure, wildlife, and tranquility amidst its scenic beauty.

Kovalam

Famous for its pristine beaches and clear waters, Kovalam is a popular beach destination offering water sports, Ayurvedic treatments, and vibrant local markets.

Varkala 

Known for its cliffside views and sandy beaches, Varkala is a laid-back destination offering a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for beach lovers and spiritual seekers.

These are just a few of the many incredible destinations Kerala has to offer, each offering a unique experience and a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of "God's Own Country."

Things to Do in Kerala for a Lifetime Experience

Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," offers a range of experiences that can create lifetime memories. Here are some must-do activities:

Backwater Cruise

 Explore the tranquil backwaters of Kerala on a houseboat cruise in Alleppey or Kumarakom. Experience the serene beauty of Kerala's countryside, lush greenery, and local life along the waterways.

Stay in a Treehouse

Enjoy a unique stay in a treehouse nestled in the midst of a dense forest. Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy stunning views of the surroundings.

Ayurvedic Massage and Spa:

Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage and spa treatment, which Kerala is famous for. Experience traditional healing therapies that relax both body and mind.

Visit Tea Gardens

 Explore the picturesque tea plantations of Munnar or Wayanad. Take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy the scenic beauty of the rolling hills.

Experience Kathakali

 Witness a traditional Kathakali dance performance, a classical dance form of Kerala known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and expressive movements.

Elephant Interaction

 Visit an elephant sanctuary or take an elephant ride through the jungle. Interact with these gentle giants and learn about their care and conservation efforts.

Explore Wildlife Sanctuaries

 Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Stay in a Homestay

Experience the warm hospitality of Kerala by staying with a local family in a homestay. Enjoy home-cooked meals and immerse yourself in the local culture. 

Culinary Tour

Take a culinary tour to sample authentic Kerala cuisine, known for its use of fresh spices and coconut. Learn to cook traditional dishes in a cooking class.

Beach Activities

 Relax on the beautiful beaches of Kerala, such as Kovalam or Varkala. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or trying local seafood delicacies at beachside shacks.

What is the Best Time to Visit Kerala ?

The best time to visit Kerala depends on the type of experience you're looking for:

• Peak Season (September to March): This is considered the best time to visit Kerala. The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C. This is ideal for exploring the backwaters, beaches, and hill stations of Kerala.
• Monsoon Season (June to August): Kerala experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. While this may not be the best time for outdoor activities, it is a great time to witness the lush greenery and enjoy the Ayurvedic treatments that are believed to be most effective during this season.
• Off-peak Season (April to May): This is the hottest time of the year in Kerala, with temperatures reaching up to 36°C. While it may not be ideal for outdoor activities, this is a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds and get better deals on accommodations and tours.

Overall, the best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months from September to March when the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy all the activities Kerala has to offer.

How do I Reach Kerala ?

Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible from various parts of India and abroad. Here are the different ways to reach Kerala:

• By Air: The major international airport in Kerala is the Cochin International Airport (COK), which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. Other airports in Kerala include Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) and Calicut International Airport (CCJ).
• By Train: Kerala has a well-developed railway network with several major railway stations. The main railway stations in Kerala are in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode. Kerala is connected to major cities in India through regular trains.
• By Road: Kerala is well-connected by road to neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. National Highways NH 66, NH 544, and NH 766 pass through Kerala, making it accessible by road from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Coimbatore.

How Many Days Are Enough to Explore Kerala ? 

To explore Kerala thoroughly, including its backwaters, hill stations, beaches, and cultural attractions, you would ideally need around 7 to 10 days. This allows you to visit major destinations like Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey, Thekkady, and Kovalam, while also having some leisure time to enjoy the local experiences. However, if you have less time, a minimum of 4 to 5 days can give you a taste of Kerala's beauty and culture, focusing on a few key locations. 

In a Nutshell

Well, the best way of reaching and exploring the cities of Kerala is to book a travel agency that could make your traveling experience more easy interesting, and you need not worry about safety, convenience, panning, etc. Our company Xenium Holidays is here for your comfort, you just need to book your package with us and the rest is on us. We provide our best service to customer and do our best to make our customer travel easy.