Kerala Tourism

Kerala

–God’s Own Country

With spectacular views, Kerala – “God’s Own Country”, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in India.

Lined with coconut trees, glistening backwaters and mystical coastal greenery, Kerala is an ultimate tourist destination to experience tropical bliss and serenity.

Kerala Tourism 1From the vast tea estates and the gushing waterfalls to the snake boat race, the art forms and ancient caves of Kerala, the list of experiences is so long, making it impractical to cover the best of Kerala in a single trip.

So, here we combine the finest experiences in Kerala for you to embrace in your next trip.

Exhale. It’s time to unleash Kerala.

Kerala is surrounded by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, blessing the land with beaches, hills and mountains.

History of Kerala

The legend has it that Kerala was underwater and was reclaimed by Parasurama, a human reincarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Formed in 1957, the ancestors struggled under the Colonial rule and still upholds the culture and heritage of Ayurveda, spices, art and lifestyle. 

Kerala Culture

Kerala Tourism 2Kerala’s culture is influenced by three major religions of the state – Hinduism, Islam and Christianity and all the dance, music, food, festivals and joy is shared beyond all barriers. 

Climate In Kerala

Being a tropical state, Kerala has a pleasant climate and is humid throughout the year. 

Popular Languages of Kerala

Malayalam is the official language of Kerala and moreover, English and Tamil also converse here.

Capital Of Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum, is the capital of Kerala.

Chief Minister (CM) of Kerela

Pinarayi Vijayan, the member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), is the current Chief Minister of Kerala, serving since 2016. 

Governor of Kerala

Arif Mohammad Khan is the current Governor of Kerala. 

Kerala High Court

The Kerala High Court is the apex court in Kerala and Lakshadweep and is located at Kochi.

Why Visit Kerala?

God’s own country will never cease to amaze you with its serene backwaters, green woods, pure waters, Ayurvedic rejuvenation, yoga, raving cuisine, forest trails, adventurous expedition and many more.

Relieve yourself from the hustle of life by sinking in the tranquillity rendered by this land.

Kerala on Map:

Kerala Tourism

Hills

Embrace the rush of the breeze, the rustle of the leaves and the view of the lush velvet green hills in God’s Own Country to discover Bliss.

Beaches

Stretch yourself in the golden grains and dive into the blue serene water. Have a coconut and enjoy Kerala’s stunning beaches.

Backwaters

Kerala has one of the most beautiful wonders of the world – The Great Backwaters. The green emerald waterways and floating along the liquid tranquillity will for sure be one of its kind.

Wildlife

Home to some of the rarest animal species on this planet including the Bengal Tiger, Lion-tailed Macaque, Indian Bison and Nilgiri Tahr, calm your senses with Kerala wildlife. 

Best Places To Visit in Kerala:

1. Alappuzha (Alleppey)

Kerala Tourism 3Known as ‘the Venice of the East’, this charming place is the hub of Kerala’s backwaters with enchanting houseboats tailored from the old pride –  Kettuvallams (living boat). 

Tourist Attractions:

Vembanad Lake, Alleppey Beach, Marari Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Pathiramanal, Kuttanad Backwaters, Arthunkal Church, Ambalapuzha Temple

2. Wayanad

The untouched woods, misty mountains, and long spread plantations, soothing temperature, numerous wildlife sanctuaries, Wayanad is the ultimate escape destination.

Tourist Attractions:

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam, Sentinel Rock Falls, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Kuruva Island, Pookode Lake, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Pakshipathalam Caves, Edakkal Caves, Sulthan Bathery

3. Kochi (Cochin)

The ‘Queen of Arabian Sea’, Kochi interlaces the diversity and beauty of the state and is a must-visit in Kerala. 

Tourist Attractions:

Andhakaranzhi Beach, Marine Drive, Bolgatty Palace, Willington Island, Jewish Synagogue, Cochin Cultural Centre, Malayattoor, Kodanad Elephant Training Centre, Hill Palace Museum, Edappally Museum, Princess Street, Kerala Kathakali Centre, Vasco Da Gama Square

4. Munnar

A picturesque town in the Western Ghats of Kerala, with lush forests, pristine lakes, stunning valleys, mountains and exotic beings, Munnar is a popular destination. 

Tourist Attractions:

Eravikulam National Park, Pothamedu View Point, Anamudi, Blossom Park, Pallivasal, TATA Tea Museum, Vattavada, Attukal Waterfalls, Cheeyapara Waterfalls, Kundala Lake, Nyayamakad, Kolukkumalai, Lock-Hart Gap, Chithirapuram, Rajamala, Top Station, Life of Pi Church, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

5. Kumarakom

An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom is a cluster of beautiful little islands on the Vembanad Lake. 

Tourist Attractions: 

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall, Vembanad Lake,  Kumarakom Beach, Bay Island, Driftwood Museum, Thanneermukkom Bund, Vagamon, Kumarakom Craft Museum, Jatayu Rock, St Mary’s Church, Cheriapally, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

6. Kovalam

Kerala Tourism 4Located along the coastlines of the charismatic Arabian Sea, nothing can beat the charm and allurement of this beach town.

Indulge in fun activities, stroll across the golden sandy stretches, and lie in the pristine waters.

Tourist Attractions:

Vellayani Lake, Lighthouse Beach, Chowara Beach, Kovalam Beach, Hawah Beach, Samudra Beach, Shangumkham Beach, Neyyar Dam, Aruvikkara Dam, Edakallu, Karamana River, Halcyon Castle, Kovalam Art Gallery, Valiyathura Pier, Veli Tourist Village, Artificial Coral Reef, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Temple, Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, Naiper Art Museum

7. Thekkady

The evergreen abode of God’s Own Country, Thekkady, is the place that always wears the green colour of Mother Nature! With exotic wildlife species, plants and natural wonders it is a destination you can’t afford to miss in Kerala.

Tourist Attractions:

The Spice Farm – Plantation for Spices & Herbs, Thekkady Rose Park, Saj’s Elephant Safari Thekkady, Murikkady, Kadathanadan Kalari Center, Vandanmedu, Pandikuzhi, Chellarkovil Viewpoint, Kumily

8. Kollam

A quaint port-city in God’s Own Country, with a rich history and unique culture credited with the magic of nature, Kollam has a calm seashore adorned with coconut palms, lush cashew plantations, and traditional villages. 

Tourist Attractions:

Dutch Quilon, Thirumullavaram Beach, Kollam Beach, Paravoor, Punalur, Mayyanad, Deer Park, Thevalli Palace, British Residency, Chavara, Jatayupara, Thangasseri, Rameshwara Temple, Sasthamkotta, Ochira, Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum, Karunagapally, Aryankavu

9. Vagamon

For an offbeat, yet captivating holiday experience in Kerala, Vagamon with its scenic hill stations, pleasant climate and adventure activities is the one for you.

Tourist Attractions:

Murinjupuzha WaterFalls, Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary, Elaveezha Poonchira, Idukki Arch Dam, Parumthumpara Point, Kurisumala, Pattumalai Church, Vagamon Pine Forest, Pine Hill, Marmala Waterfall, Thangal Para, Barren Hills Meadows

10. Kozhikode

One of the most beautiful tourist places in Kerala with rich history and culture, it was the place where Vasco-da-Gama first landed in India.

Famous for picturesque beaches and authentic food, it is a must-visit place for you to cherish some laid back time in the realm of nature.

Tourist Attractions:

Kappad Beach, Kozhikode Beach, Beypore Beach, Kozhippara Falls, Thusharagiri Falls, Thikkoti Lighthouse, Kadalundi, Tali Temple, Lion’s Park, Kalipoyika, Mananchira Square, Krishna Menon Museum, Peruvannamuzhi Dam, Dolphins Point, Pazhassi Raja Museum And Art Gallery, Calicut Planetarium, Mishkal Mosque

11. Bekal

A small town located in Kasaragod district of Kerala, Bekal is all about pristine beaches, backwaters, and historical forts. Exploring its natural beauty and numerous caves is sure a stress buster and adventurous one.

Tourist Attractions:

Bekal Fort, Pallikere Beach, Bekal Fort Beach, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Kappil Beach, Hosdurg Beach, Nileswaram Cultural Centre, Nityananda Ashram Caves, TulurVanam, Mallikarjuna Temple, Malik Deena Mosque, Ananthapura Temple, Nileswaram

12. Idukki

Kerala Tourism 5To the man lost in the concrete jungle, Idukki creates a trail of full of cliffs, lush greenery, lagoons, tranquil rivers, cascading waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna Wildlife Sanctuaries, dams, and historical places to hypnotize and leave you with everlasting memories.

Tourist Attractions:

Idukki Arch Dam, Nandukani, Painavu, Murikkady, Kulamavu Dam, Anakkara, Hill View Park, Thommankuthu Falls, Keezharkuthu Falls

13. Thrissur

Famous for the festivals, Thrissur is the official cultural capital of Kerala. With spectacular architecture and arts, the best way to explore Thrissur is by witnessing the magic of the festivals celebrated here like Thrissur Pooram festival, Onam etc.

Tourist Attractions:

Parthasarathy Temple, Chamundeshwary Temple, Vadakkumnathan Kshetram Temple, Tomb of Shakthan Thampuran, Athirapally Falls, Archeology Museum and the Thrissur Zoo, Vazhachal Falls, Chavakkad Beach, Vilangankunnu, Kerala Kalamandalam

14. Varkala

Varkala is a small city with high, red cliffs making it a unique place. 

Adorned with numerous beaches, forts and historical monuments, the clear blue waters with the black sand shores, Varkala attracts hundreds of people every year from all over the country.

Tourist Attractions:

Varkala Cliff, Varkala Beach, Janardana Swami Temple, Kappil Beach and Lake,  Anchuthengu Anjengo Fort, Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala Tunnel, Ponnumthuruthu Island, Saint Sebastian’s Pilgrim Church, Varkala Aquarium, Thiruvambadi Beach, Odayam Beach, Balimandapam

15. Kasargod

A quaint town that showcases diverse biodiversity, dotted with an array of tourist attractions with a glorious past, a range of loft peaks, stunning beaches, historic marvels, natural treasure, and much more.

Tourist Attractions:

Chandragiri Fort, Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary, Malom Wildlife Sanctuary, Ananthapura Lake Temple, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Madhur, Cheruvathur, Rock Point, Manjeshwar, Trikkanad and PandayanKallu, Nileshwar, Kottancheri Hills, Kumbala, Bela Church, Maipady Palace

16. Kuttanad

Fondly called as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala’, Kuttanad is truly the tranquil, evergreen and magnificent tourist destination with captivating views.

Tourist Attractions:

Champakulam, Chengannur, Pamba River, Meenachil River, Achankovil River, Manimala River, Punnamada Lake, Backwaters, Paddy Fields, Traditional Water Turbines, Houseboat cruise, Karumadi Kuttan

17. Malampuzha

Kerala Tourism 6Located in the Palakkad district, you can feel the true essence of Kerala and its bountiful nature through the evergreen vegetation, undulating beauty of unending green stretches and co-exist with Mother Nature in Malampuzha. 

Tourist Attractions:

Malampuzha Dam, Malampuzha Garden, Kava, Palakkad Fort, Dhoni Hills and Waterfalls, Thread Garden, Rock Garden, Snake Park, Udan Khatola, Fantasy Park, Thenkurussi

18. Fort Kochi

located towards the South-West part of the city of Kochi, Fort Kochi- the first European township in India, is one of the finest places to visit in Kerala. 

Tourist Attractions:

Jew Town, Kerala Folklore Theater and Museum, Princess Street, Mattancherry, Fort Kochi Beach, Kerala Kathakali Centre, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, St Francis Church, Pallipuram Fort, Paradesi Synagogue, Chinese Fishing Nets, Dutch Cemetery, Bolgatty Palace, Vypeen Island

19. Nelliyampathy

While Kerala is called the ‘God’s Own Country’, Nelliyampathy is fondly called the ‘God’s Own Village’! With lofty peaks, rugged trails, and hairpin bends, it’s the ideal getaway to India’s Backwater Capital.

Tourist Attractions:

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Nenmara, Palagapandi Estate, Seetharkundu Viewpoint, Padagiri, Raja’s Cliff, Pothundi Reservoir, Malampuzha Gardens, Nelliyampathy Gardens, Pothundi Reservoir 

20. Poovar

A small rustic town, 27 km from Thiruvananthapuram with beaches, mangrove forest, and a quintessential display of exotic flora and fauna. 

Tourist Attractions:

Poovar Beach, Thiruparappu Falls, Fishing Village, Kalipoika, Kozhipara, Thikkoti Light House, Vizhinjam, Crocodile-Watching Expeditions

21. Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala Tourism 7The capital city of God’s Own Country, Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum, is the perfect mix of traditional Kerala life with contemporary living. 

Tourist Attractions:

Padmanabhapuram Palace, Napier Museum, Kanakakunnu Palace, Priyadarshini Space Planetarium, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple, Shanghumukham Beach, Veli Tourist Village, Aruvi Waterfalls, Akkulam Tourist Village, Aruvikkara Dam, Neyyar, Peppara Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary, Kowdiar Palace

22. Ponmudi

Lose yourself  amidst lush mist-laden hills and hike trails across the  narrow winding roads.

Tourist attractions: 

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Koyikkal Palace, Agasthyakoodam, Varayattumotta, Golden Valley, Kallar, Sri Krishna Swami Temple, Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary, Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve

23. Sabarimala

The largest temple town in the entire country, the essence of spirituality is spread all across this region.

Tourist attractions: 

Ayyappa Temple, Makaravilakku, Vavar Shrine, Erumeli, Malikappuram Devi Temple, Pampa Ganapathi Temple

24. Thalassery

Exhibiting deeply-rooted history and rich culture along with lip-smacking delicacies, you’ll love the time you spent here.

Tourist attractions: 

Mahe, Dharmadan, Thalassery Fort, Overbury’s Folly, Gundert Bungalow, Tellicherry Pier, Jagannath Temple

25. Nilambur

‘Land of Teak Plantations’, Nilambur blends in culture and art, offering awe-inspiring views of exotic wilderness. 

Tourist attractions:

Teak Museum, Kannimara Teak, Nedumkayam, Elembala Hill, Adyanpara Waterfalls, Valamthode Waterfalls, Aruvacode

26.  Kalpetta

Kerala Tourism 8This town boasts of mighty forest-clad hills, lush vegetation, refreshing aura, and the charming scenic views.

Tourist attractions: 

Karapuzha Dam, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Vaduvanchal, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Thirunelli Temple, Neelimala View Point

27. Peerumedu

With velvety grasslands, mystical hills and the gushing waterfalls this destination is perfect for those seeking solitude in their lives.

Tourist attractions: 

Grampi, Thrissanku Hills, Payyumala, Wagamon, Peeru Hills, Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre

28. Mannarkkad

If you are seeking to get closer to nature and wildlife this fairytale town with enchanting rivers flowing through the forest-clad valley is the one for you.

Tourist attractions: 

Ooty, Wayanad, Munnar, Palakkad, Nilambur, Coonoor, Malampuzha

29.  Vythiri

Blanket yourself in the old-world charm of Vythiri with antique cottages, gorgeous tree houses, and the magnificent log huts. 

Tourist attractions: 

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Pookot Lake, Soochipara Falls, Banasura Dam, Chembra Peak

30. Silent valley

Located in the Northeast corner of Palakkad district, Silent Valley was named a National Park in 1984. A voyage through this dreamy strip of land makes one wonder of the beautiful earth we live in.

Tourist attractions: 

Trekking, camping, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Kanjirapuzha Dam, Virgin Valley

31. Kottayam

Travel back in time, with one of the most serene places in Kerala, called the ‘City of Letters’, Kottayam.

Tourist attractions: 

Kottathavalam, Nadukani, Island of Pathiramanal, Illikkal Kallu, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple

32. Kuttikkanam

Kerala Tourism 9Be prepared to get blown by the alluring charm of misty winds, snow showers and wide span of hills and forest in Kuttikkanam.

Tourist attractions: 

Ammachi Kottaram, Thrissanku Hills, Valanjamkanam WaterFalls, Mottakunnu Hill View Point, Pine Forest, Kuttikkanam uruli waterfalls, Parunthumpara Hill View Point, Panchalimedu View Point

33. Ponnani

Ponnani is a beach town tagged as the Mecca of South India and looks right out of a storybook.

Tourist attractions: 

Jama Masjid, Thrikkavu Temple, Human Ath Mosque, Padinharekara Beach, Navamukunda Temple

34. Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta is a small town that reeks of the essence of spirituality, adorned with ancient architecture, divine rivers, forest-clad mountain ranges, makes it a refreshing destination. 

Tourist attractions:

Perunthenaruvi Waterfall, Thriveni Sangamam, Konni Forest Reserve, Kaviyoor Rock Temple, Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Manjinikkara Church, Aranmula, Maramon Convention

35. Palakkad

Palakkad is known as the ‘Gateway to Kerala’ and ‘Granary of Kerala’ is a paradise for nature lovers.

Tourist Attractions:

Palakkad Fort, Mayiladumpara Peacock Sanctuary, Attappadi, Kava ViewPoint, Siruvani Reservoir, Kanjirapuzha Reservoir, Dhoni Forest (Trekking), Kalpathy Heritage Village and Temple Complex, Pothundi Dam and Reservoir, Mangalam Dam, Tipu’s Fort

35.  Tholpetty

Home to the most exotic and diverse wildlife, Tholpetty is a destination that is a small part of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary with a myriad of stunning flora and fauna.

Tourist attractions: 

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Papanashini, Kuruva Dweep, Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, Panchatirtha

36. Malappuram

Malappuram, the ‘City of Hills’ or ‘Soccer City of Kerala’ with its natural appeal and historic significance, will keep you soaked with fun-frolic.

Tourist Attractions:

Keralamkundu Waterfalls, Koottayi Beach, Padinharekara Beach, BiyyamKayal, Up & Down Hill, Kottakkunnu, Panakkad, Shanthitheeram, Arimbra Hills, Teak Museum, Anakkayam, Melmuri, Malappuram Juma Masjid, Thiruppuranthaka Temple, Mannoor Shiva Temple

37. Kannur

Known as ‘The Crown of Kerala’, this beach town in the Malabar Coast will make you fall in love with her. 

Tourist Attractions:

Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Payyambalam Beach, Meenkunnu Beach, Thottada Beach, Baby Beach, Mopila Bay, Dharmadam Island, Parassinikkadavu, Arakkal Museum, Sundareswara Temple, Fort St. Angelo, Pallikunnu

38.Periyar

With serene surroundings and greenery, this is the zone for travellers to chill out from life.

Tourist Attractions:

Periyar National Park, Periyar river, Pullumedu,  Mangla Devi Temple

39. Devikulam

A quaint little town in Kerala, famed for its lake with a legend, home to painted sceneries, magical waterfalls, and a plethora of tea plantations to embrace mother nature. 

Tourist Attractions:

Sita Devi Lake, Thoovanam Falls, Pallivasal Lake, Tea and Spice Plantations

40. Guruvayur

Kerala Tourism 10A cultural hotspot in Thrissur, this place is thronged by spiritual seekers during festivals like Janmashtami, Kumbham Utsavam and Ekadasi. 

Tourist Attractions:

Guruvayur Temple, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Palace, Guruvayur Elephant Camp Sanctuary, Mammiyur Mahadevan Temple, Chamundeshwary Temple, Devaswom Institute of Mural Paintings 

41.  Gavi

Feel the fresh air of the forest , the cool water tralis, monkeys and bisons across you and be awed by nature’s beauty in Gavi.

Tourist Attractions:

Gavi Forest Trek, Outdoor Camping, Jeep Safari, Night Safari, Sabarimala Viewpoint, Boating, Cardamom Factory and Ninnumulli Waterfalls

42. Thenmala

Thenmala, which means ‘Honey Hill’ is India’s first planned eco-tourism destination, UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to visit in Kerala. 

Tourist Attractions:

Thenmala Eco-Tourism Centre, Thenmala Dam, Metre Gauge Railway, Pathimoonnu Kannara Palam Bridge, Ambanad Hills, Deer Rehabilitation Centre and Punalur Suspension Bridge

43. Marayoor

Marayoor is a scenic place in Kerala with natural sandalwood forests, rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once in every 12 years and ancient rock paintings. 

Tourist Attractions:

Attala, Ezhuthu Guha, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thoovanam Waterfalls, Amaravathi Dam  

44. Aranmula

Famous for its snake boat race – Aranmula Vallamkali and the famed Aranmula Kannadi ( metal mirror), this is a tiny beautiful hamlet in Pathanamthitta, is with rich culture and heritage. 

Tourist Attractions:

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, Aruvikuzhi Waterfalls, Pampa Ganapathi Temple, Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls, Bhoothakkuzhy Para

45. Madayipara

Kerala Tourism 11Madayipara is a flat-topped hillock in Kannur district of Kerala. Stunning butterflies that charm and cheerful bird species greet you here.

Tourist Attractions:

Madayi Kavu Pooram festival, Pazhi Kotta fort, Vadukunda Shiva Temple

46. Ranipuram

Ranipuram is a hill station of Kerala in Kasaragod district with beautiful mountain terrain and grasslands with a panoramic view as to trail along.

Tourist Attractions:

Madiyam Kovilakam Temple, Palakkunnu Bhagavathy Temple, Bharani Maholsavam, Anandashram, Nityanandashram, Kottancheri Hill 

47. Meesapulimala

Recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site, this high Peak is for all ardent trekkers and adventure lovers.

Tourist Attractions:

Rhodo Valley, Kolukkumalai Sunrise View Point, Kundala Dam, Mattupetti Indo-Swiss Farm, Mattupetty Dam

48. Pakshipathalam

Pakshipathalam is an eco-tourist spot in the Brahmagiri hills of Wayanad district. It is an ornithologist’s paradise and the love of trekkers.

Tourist Attractions:

Varambetta Mosque, Koottamundu glass temple, Puliyarmala Jain temple, Pakshipathalam bird sanctuary

49. Ottappalam

Ottapalam in Palakkad district, is on the banks of River Bharathapuzha, with a distinct culture and heritage different from rest of the region. 

Tourist Attractions:

Killikkurussimangalam, Varikkassery Mana in Manissery, Bharathappuzha, Chinakathoor Temple, Musical Dancing Fountain Manissery, Ottapalam, Ananganmala EcoTourism, Ananganadi Hills

50. Lakkidi

Kerala Tourism 12The gateway to Wayanad, this hilly district has lots of viewpoints, and the experience of Wayanad starts from here.

Tourist Attractions:

Vellarimala, Pookat lake, Chain Tree

10 Best & Famous Beaches in Kerala:

Being a coastline State Kerala bordered with the Arabian Sea, the beaches in Kerala are unique and  

1. Bekal Beach

Sprawled around the Bekal Fort, this beach  is perfect for the sunrise or sunset and walks, swim and picnics with loved ones.

2. Muzhuppilangad Beach

This 5 km long beach in the north of Thalassery with coconut groves and the rocky shores are a remarkably beautiful picture to its visitors. 

3. Kovalam Beach

One of India’s most well-known beaches, this place has everything you need – comfy cottages, high-end hotels, pools, yoga centres and the tranquil vibe all around.

4. Kizhunna Beach

One the coastal town of Kannur is one of Kerala’s offbeat beaches-Kizhunna Beach, with picturesque and promising beauty visited by all beach lovers. 

5. Varkala Beach

Kerala Tourism 13Also known as Papanasam (washing away sins), this beach, 32 miles north-west of Trivandrum, is unique for the presence of cliffs and a strange sight on the flat coast. 

6. Marari Beach

A calm and tranquil beach, this  white sand beach is located 11 km away from Alleppey town and is the favorite bed for all the tourists.

7. Cherai Beach

25 km from Kochi, on the western coast of Vypin Island this beach is very enticing and Goshree bridges connect the island to the mainland. 

8. Shankumugham Beach

Located very close to Trivandrum City, It is one of the evening hideouts to unwind and relax.

9. Calicut Beach

With lots of ice cream shops close by lick a cone and stroll across the sandy stretches. 

10. Kappad Beach

A historically important beach in Kerala, where Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer landed in 1498, this beach is adorned with beautiful sandy beach stretches.

7 Must See Waterfalls in Kerala:

Home to some beautiful waterfalls, here are few worth a visit in Kerala. 

1. Athirapally waterfalls

This waterfall is located in Thrissur district on the Chalakudy River that flows through forests and ranges, making Athirapally the prominent tourist place in Kerala.

2. Vazhachal Falls

5 km from the entrance to Athirapally are the cascading waters that seep down on all its onlookers. 

3. Palaruvi Falls

Located in Kollam district, It is a single drop (299 ft) horsetail type waterfall across the Kallada River with herbal groves that give a healing property to the water.

4. Valara Waterfalls

Kerala Tourism 14The beauty of this scenic and gushing waterfall, Located in Idukki, is a  magical one, enough to make anyone fall in love with it.

5. Thusharagiri Falls

Formed by the Chalipuzha River that diverges into 3 Falls, which envelopes the area with misty spray, this place is amenable to hardy trekkers and rock climbers if they are equipped for it. 

6. Thommankuthu

A seven-step waterfall, 20 km from Thodupuzha, this is a lovely picnic spot in the greenery with a number of caves to explore.

7. Meenmutty Waterfalls

Enjoy the 2-kilometre wild trek and cherish one of the gorgeous waterfalls in the state located in Wayanad.

Important Bird Sanctuaries in Kerala

1. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

First to be set up in Kerala, the  “Cuckoo Paradise”, diverse butterflies and the fine green earth makes this one of the best in the country. Also the Edamalayar forest nearby with rarely seen Mountain Hawk eagles makes it more visit-worthy. 

2. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

With local as well as migratory birds, amidst the backwaters this bird paradise is ideal for bird watching.

3. Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

Famous for the avian visitors like terns, sandpipers and Siberian Cranes this Sanctuary is made up of a cluster of estuarine islands. 

4. Mangalavanam Sanctuary

Kerala Tourism 15Adjoining the sea and the backwaters, a lake in the middle as a watering place for the birds and animals and a home to some rare fishes is the Mangalavanam Sanctuary.

5. Pathiramanal Bird Sanctuary

A small island in the Vembanad Lake, visit this place during your cruise in the water.

Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala:

There are numerous wildlife sanctuaries In Kerala. 

1. Parambikulam Sanctuary

With dense forest, tree houses, trekking trails and boating joy this protected area of 285 km sq, in Palakkad district is famous with the tourists. 

2. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or Thekkady

Covered with rainforest, with mind-blowing biodiversity and trees all around you, remember this reserve is for elephants and tigers. 

3. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

Lying between 2 rivers, Periyar and Cheruthoni in this tropical evergreen paradise you can trek, hike and boat to your heart’s content.

4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Home to tigers, leopards, elephants, a variety of birds and many others,  this sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri biosphere reserve. 

5. Aralam Sanctuary

This sanctuary is 35 km from Thalassery in north Kerala, it has an elevation from 50m to 1145 m. Diverse flora and fauna along with widespread Teak and Eucalyptus plantations are found here.

Kerala Is Famous For:

Dance

Kerala Tourism 16Kerala has around 50 forms of dances of which two classical dance forms ‘Kathakali’ and ‘Mohiniyattam,’ are most famed.

Also, Theyyam, Thiruvathirakali, Chakyar Koothu Koodiyattam, and Ottamthullal are some of the prominent dances of Kerala.

Dress

In Kerala, the traditional dress is Lungi, locally known as Kaili or Kalli Mundu, worn by both men and women and nowadays contemporary fashion is also followed.

Food

Well, all the people across Kerala are foodies, so wherever you go, your taste buds will love it!

The staple food revolves coconut, rice, tapioca, fish and spices like black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger and a variety of seafood.

Top Fairs and Festivals in Kerala:

The festival season, the pride and joy of Kerala, is epitomised by the ferocious beats of the chenda (drums), the Elephant march and the long snake boats along with a plethora of lights and merriment across the state. 

1. Onam

Kerala Tourism 17Onam is the largest or the traditional ten-day harvest festival of Kerala noted with flower decorations, elephant processions, Kathakali dances, Vallamkali – the famous snake boat race, superb feast called OnaSadya and much more to enthral you.

2. Vishu

Vishu is the astrological New Year of Kerala celebrated in the month of April. With the blooming of beautiful yellow Konna flowers, and the delicious Sadhya, Summers are a wonderful time in Kerala. 

3. Ramzan

Ramzan is one of the biggest celebrations in Kerala enjoyed with family and friends, with feasts and exquisite delicacies.

4. Christmas Celebrations

Take a stroll around Kerala during Christmas to see the beautifully designed cribs and delicious Christmas cakes and treats, the Christmas bands and many Santa Claus Pappas! 

5. Thrissur Pooram

Beyond all the barriers, this festival is loved by all Keralites. The elephant processions and melody of the drums is breathtakingly spectacular; this pride of Kerala is a must-do in the bucket list.

6. Aranmula Snake Boat Race

With thousands of onlookers on the banks of the Pampa River, the Aranmula Boat Race is one of the divine religious festivals held annually, at Aranmula.

7. Nehru Trophy Boat Race

Noted as the largest snake boat race in the world, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is held at Punnamada Lake near Alleppey. With traditional rituals, the melody of Vanchipattu the decorated boats soar away in the waters.

How To Reach Kerala?

kerala tourismKerala is the southwestern part of India with the Arabian Sea on its west and Western Ghats mountain range on its east. Along with an extensive inland water transport, air and railways travel has flourished to top heights in the state. 

By Air

Kerala can be easily accessed by air. The state has three main airports located at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi have an international airport while Kozhikode focuses on domestic flights.

By Trains

Kerala has an effective train services link that connects to all the major cities of India including New-Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. There are around 200 railway stations in Kerala along with the Kochi metro that aid the travellers with safe and sound travel. 

By Road

Kerala is directly connected by road to some of its neighbouring states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. With 11 National Highways and services like buses, taxis and autos the roads in kerala make sure we reach our destination.

By Water

There are ships from Cochin (Kochi) to Lakshadweep Islands. moreover, there is a well kept inland water transport system that serves as a tourist attraction all by itself. 

Well, the journey through the article was great right? Feel like coming to Kerala? So, why wait, pack your bags and come straight to this heaven for your own unique experience in Kerala!

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Kerala Tourism 18