Kerala
About Kerala
Famously known as ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is a state located on the Malabar coast of Southern India. Home to a vast network of brackish lagoons called backwaters, ayurvedic massages, wildlife sanctuaries, sprawling tea gardens, hill-stations, palm tree-lined beaches and colourful dance forms, Kerala has everything on offer to take your pick from! .
Kochi
Situated on the south-west coast of India, Kochi or Cochin is a bustling commercial port city with a trading history that dates back to at least 600 years. Called as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, the city is the financial, commercial and industrial capital of Kerala. A gaggle of islands interconnected by ferries, this cosmopolitan town has upmarket stores, art galleries and some of the finest heritage accommodations. In a true vintage-meets-future fashion, pubs, restaurants, shopping hubs and futuristic stores crowd Ernakulum, Jew Town and Fort Kochi while palaces, beaches, temples and heritage sites marking their presence too. Kochi is also an important place to see Kathakali and Kalarippayattu performances and annual Biennale Festival.
Things to Do
Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is a seaside town in the south-western part of Main Kochi which is known for its old-world colonial charm. The place still holds on to every single cultural change it has gone through over the centuries. We can see the remnants of British rule all over the country. The tourists’ flock hear all around the year to have a glimpse of how Portuguese or Dutch colonialism affected parts of our country. This quaint city is dotted with European structures and has an overall ambience that keeps reminding you of the colonial powers that once ruled over the place. Till date, it has the vibe of an ancient colonial city with its toy-town like streets, colourful and charming buildings and a picturesque view out at the beach – much like the small towns of southern Europe.
Jewish Synagogue
Also known as Paradesi Synagogue or Mattancherry Synagogue, Cochin Jewish Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue, not just in Kochi but in the Commonwealth of Nations. Located in the Jew Town area of Kochi, the synagogue was constructed in 1567 and is one of the seven synagogues of the Malabar Yehudan or Yehudan Mappila.
The synagogue shares its walls with the Mattancherry Palace and was built by Spanish- speaking Jews; therefore, it is also known as ‘Paradesi’ meaning ‘foreigners’. Boasting of rare antiques including beautiful chandeliers, clock tower, brass railed pulpit, Chinese hand-painted tiles etc. and striking architecture, the synagogue has four buildings of its own. In 1662, the synagogue was ruined by the Portuguese but was later renovated by the Dutch after 2 years.
Chinese Fishing Nets
Popularly known as Cheenavala, the Chinese Fishing Nets are the most iconic and popular attractions of Kerala peculiar to Kochi located next to Fort Kochi. One of the significant cultural symbols of Kerala, the spot is also one of the most photographed places in all of the town, attracting hordes of tourists and photographers on an everyday basis.
The Chinese Fishing Nets are basically vast fishing nets which are fixed on bamboo and teak poles. They are then let down into the sea through unique mechanisms and by weighing them down with large stones tied to ropes. These nets are left in the sea before they are pulled back again by tugging the ropes after collecting a significant amount of catch. Considered to be the ingenious way of fishing, these majestic Chinese fishing nets are operated by four to six fishermen and watching this spectacular process is in itself a spellbinding experience.
Santa Cruz Basilica
The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is located at Fort Kochi and is one of the eight Basilicas in India. Located on K.B. Jacob Road in Fort Kochi, this beautiful roman catholic church serves as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Kochi. The church is the second cathedral built by the Portuguese. The columns are decorated with frescoes, and there are seven large canvas paintings along with the beautiful stained glass windows. The ceiling holds some beautifully painted images depicting the images of Via Crucis of Christ. This Cathedral holds a special significance for the Christians residing in the city of Kochi as it celebrates the dawn of their religion in the land of India.
Kerala Kathakali Centre
Kerala Kathakali Centre at Fort Cochin has seen many dance performances! The amount of effort put in by the dancers is commendable. It is usually rife with locals and foreign tourists who come to enjoy the dance show. It also has morning meditation shows which one can take part in. The architecture of the Kerala Kathakali Centre is something special. The centre’s interiors follow the Malabar style of architecture and are mostly made up of beautiful wood carvings which gives the place a very traditional, yet appealing look.
Apart from Kathakali, the centre is also known to for its short-term as well as long-term courses in dance styles such as Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi and Mohinattam. It also has courses in Kalaripayattu, Classical music (both Carnatic as well as Hindustani), Percussion instruments such as Drums, Tabla, Madalam, String instruments such as Violin, Veena and Sitar and the flute.
Alleppey
Officially called Alappuzha, Alleppey is a city in the South Indian state of Kerala. Bordering the Laccadive Sea, it is known for its wide network of interlinking, palm-fringed canals called backwaters and rejuvenating Ayurvedic resorts. Allepey is also popular for its Houseboat cruises that pass through the serene backwaters, where you can catch glimpses of green paddy fields, choir making activities, beautiful avifauna and witness the life of locals in Kerala.
Towards the shore lies the Alleppey beach in the Arabian Sea, a beautiful example of the gems you’d find along the Malabar Coast. The appeal of this beach is only amplified by the history attached to it, and a walk down the 137-year old pier is a must. Be sure to catch a traditional snake boat race in the months of August and September and try out some toddy (palm wine) at a local toddy shop for adding a touch of authenticity to your travel experience in Allepey.
Houseboats
Popularly known as the Venice of the east, Alleppey or Allapuzha is famous for its serene backwaters and their exceptionally scenic setting. Cruising on houseboats in Alleppey is the latest and probably the best addition to the list of ways you can enjoy the mesmerizing natural beauty of this quaint little town.
Alleppey is gifted with a unique crisscrossing network of canals that runs throughout the town which allows you to access and explore the entire area while you’re relaxing on your houseboat. These 120-foot-long abodes of luxury glide along the placid backwaters of Alleppey and provide you with a stunning view. The houseboat will always be manned by at least 3 people- a cook, a guide and an oarsman. Delicious meals are provided on the houseboats by the in-house cook which are a local favourite. The guide keeps you posted of all the important landmarks you pass and the oarsman makes sure you have a wonderful time cruising along the calm backwaters
Backwaters
The Alleppey backwaters was earlier used as a mode of transportation, fishing and agriculture and have evolved over time as a tourism hotspot. The main attraction of the Alleppey backwaters is the overnight journey in the famous Kerala houseboats. These houseboats are as comfortable as any hotel room – sometimes even more luxurious, and as a bonus, you get the open deck.Sunset viewing, bird watching, village visits, stargazing, witnessing the everyday life of the farmers and fishermen along with visiting the various regions that specialise in the manufacture of certain products like toddy, coir, handicraft. Alleppey is a handful of an experience to have. Alleppey is rightfully called the Venice of the East. With its labyrinth of brackish lagoons and interconnected lakes, Alleppey or Alappuzha is no less than the famous European city – neither in beauty nor in history and culture. Hire your boat and get started along the flow of the stream to soak in its beauty.
Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake is a lagoon located in the district of Alleppey in the South-Indian state of Kerala. This expansive lake/ lagoon is longest lake in the country and the largest Lake in Kerala, accessible from Kottayam, Kuttanad and Kochi. Vembanad Lake is known by different names in different regions of Kerala. It is called the Kochi Lake in Kochi, the Punnamada Lake in Kuttanad and as Vembanad in Kottayam. Locals also call it Vembanad Kol or Vembanad Kayal.
Thekkady/Periyar
Home to the country’s largest Tiger Reserve- Periyar, Thekkady is a great way to enjoy a jungle vacation. Periyar National Park, being a major attraction, is one place where you can enjoy bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam, hiking, and in the midst of the wilderness, shopping! Popular for its good eating joints, you can also enjoy its vast stretches of spice gardens and various adventure sports. You can also enjoy a night trek in the wilderness of Periyar. The early morning ride in the boat within the sanctuary is an extremely awesome experience and you might be able to spot wild elephants, bisons, wild boars, various kinds of birds, etc.
Periyar National Park
The Periyar National Park in Thekkady, Kerala, is one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world and the best-protected reserve area that one can lay eyes on in India. Famous for its gorgeousness, greenery and stillness, the park is the dwelling place of abundant significant species, including the royal tigers and majestic elephants apart from other reptiles, fishes and birds. This National Park is an amazing coming together of nature, adventure and beauty. A place which allows you the peace and serenity you so desire, an opportunity to be one with nature and just a normal sighting of a Tiger or two, Periyar National Park is full of beautiful sights and sounds. The Periyar National Park is spread over 257 square miles and the rivers Pamba and Periyar flow through it. These rivers help the plants and animals to nurture and flourish. This site attracts thousands of tourists to it every year, who come from all parts of the world to take pleasure in the boat cruises, jungle safaris in the form of jeep safaris and elephant safaris, and prominent eco-tourism activities, that are the speciality of this national park.
The attractions at the national park are perfect places for enjoying boating at the magnificent lake, trekking through the dense forests, or simply sitting back to spot an animal or two. It is no uncertainty that this place is the ideal holiday destination, which offers adventure and nature beautifully rolled into one. The wide range of activities, decent and affordable accommodation, as well as easy accessibility, makes Periyar National Park a must-visit tourist spot in Kerala.
Thekkady or Periyar Lake
Tucked in the heart of the jungle, Thekkady or Periyar Lake is famous for its wide varieties of wildlife. You can also take a boat ride in the reservoir that provides water to the forest.
Green Park Ayurvedic & Spices Plantation
Green Park Ayurvedic & Spices Plantation is an ecological park founded to grow medicinal herbs and spices and disseminate the knowledge of growing them with the help of advanced agricultural techniques. The park expands over an area of five acres and has a Spice Garden and an Organic Farm that one can explore along with the stunning landscape.
Periyar Tiger Trail
Tourists trek along the Tiger Trail and thick vegetation of the reserve along with guides and Forest Department officials is an experience worth remembering. Tourists can also spot elephants, sambhars, and tigers there.
Munnar
Munnar is a popular hill-station of Kerala perched at an altitude of 1600 metres in the Western Ghats. Famous for its tea estates, various shades of green, blankets of mist and craggy peaks, Munnar is aptly known as the ‘Kashmir of South India’. Situated on the banks of three rivers- Madupetti, Nallathanni and Periavaru, Munnar is also blessed with natural view-points apart from the tea-plantations. Munnar is divided into Old Munnar, where the tourist information office is, and Munnar, where the bus station and most guest houses are located. The Eravikulam National Park, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and tea plantations are its major attractions.
Tata Tea or KDHP Museum
Located in the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea around 2 km from Munnar, the KDHP Museum showcases a variety of antiquities, the most famous being the burial urn excavated from the vicinity of Periakanal Estate, dating back to 2nd century AD. A 30 minute documentary feature by the museum will take you through a historical sojourn of the place. Visitors then proceed to the factory to understand how tea is processed.
Photo Point
Photo Point is this picturesque site perched atop the low rolling slopes and undulating plains of Nilgiris in Munnar. In the backdrop of the stretches of tea gardens typical to this region of the country, this point serves as an excellent photographic opportunity; as it is clear from the name itself.
Apart from its scenic beauty and lush green tea gardens, it is also known for aromatic spices. The route up to the spot is quite spectacular as well and makes the entire journey worth it. Photo Point is a famous sightseeing, a picnic spot and a filming destination, and rightfully so. When in Munnar, make sure that you do not miss this stunning beauty!
Eravikulam National Park
Located a 45 – minute drive away from Munnar, the Eravikulam National Park houses a rich and diverse variety of flora and fauna and is a UNESCO world heritage site. Also known as Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, this place was managed as a game reserve by the Kanan Devan Hills Produce Company before 1971. The control was taken over by the Karnataka Government in 1971, and it was declared a national park in 1978. Elephant, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri marten, Atlas moth (largest in the world), lion-tailed macaque, small-clawed otter and a rare tiger or leopard are some of the main animal species that can be spotted here.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats and is a part of the Idukki District. Spread over an area of 90.44 km², This region is richly populated with a wide array of indigenous flora and fauna which makes it a popular tourist destination. Chinnar houses a myriad variety of medicinal plants, and as the home to start tortoise. Its animal population includes species such as grizzled giant squirrel, gaur, spotted deer, tufted grey langur, slender loris, crocodile, wild elephant, tiger, leopard and many birds. Since it is a government-protected enclosure, you can experience flora and fauna in its natural habitat, uninterrupted by the clamour of the city. The mixed deciduous forests found here are ideal for some rudimentary trekking as well.
Kumarakom
Located at a distance of 16km from Kottayam in Kerala and located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kerala’s largest lake, Kumarakom is a cluster of many small man-made islands reclaimed from the lake. Known for paddy fields, fishing, a network of backwaters, delicious local cuisine, traditional Kettuvalloms (rice barges) houseboats and luxury and budget resorts. The Kumarakom bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist’s paradise. Take a two-hour canoeing trip during the sunrise or sunset to experience the beauty of this place. Kumarkom is the first destination to implement responsible tourism
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, also popularly known as the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, is a breathtaking and beautiful bird sanctuary that is located at Kumarakom in the Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala. Situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in the Kerala Backwaters, this bird sanctuary is a favourite destination for many native as well as migratory birds, which makes the place a dreamland full of ecstasy and delight for bird watchers and nature lovers.
The houseboats and motorboats that are available on rent to watch birds further enhance this enrichening experience. A trip to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is thus a must while in Kerala, to explore and unravel the hidden treasures and gifts of the Earth.
Backwaters
The Backwaters of Kumarakom, formed by the beautiful Vembanad Lake, is located about 17 kilometres from Kottayam in God’s Own Country, the South Indian state of Kerala. Vembanad Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the state and is known worldwide for its famous backwater tourism. The Backwaters of Kumarakom offer a picturesque location that proves to be a perfect backwater destination for travellers who are persistently searching for one. The Vembanad Lake of Kumarakom is the starting point for backwater cruises in Kerala, along with Allepey. Formerly known as the Baker Estate and now developed as a Rubber Estate, Kumarakom is home to a diversity of flora and fauna. The lush green surroundings with tall grass, shrubs and countless coconut trees that line the horizon of the pristine lake are a treat to the eyes.
Wayamad
Replete with waterfalls, historical caves, comfortable resorts and homestays, Wayanad in Kerala is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. Walking through the sprawling spice plantations, trekking to the pre-historic caves and experiencing a resort holiday are one of the many things you can do to get a taste of Wayanad. Wayanad is best known for the wildlife reserves – Wayanad wildlife reserve which is home to an exquisite variety of flora and fauna. Wayanad wildlife reserve is an integral part of the Nilgiri biosphere reserve peacefully located amidst the serene hills of Western Ghats. Wayanad homes a wide variety of wildlife like elephants, leopards, and bears. Wayanad is a perfect weekend idea from the cities of South India. If taking a road trip from Bangalore, you will drive through three national parks: Nagarhole, Bandipur and Mudumalai.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala and comprises of rare as well as endangered species of both flora and fauna. It is surrounded by the protected areas of Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu as well as Nagarhole and Bandipur in Karnataka. Founded in the year 1973, the wildlife sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve which was the first biosphere out of the 14 present in India. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 345 square km and comprises of two parts namely Upper Wayanad and Lower Wayanad. Eucalyptus, as well as bamboo trees, are grown in the region.
Edakkal Caves
Famous for its exquisite rock and wall carvings, the pre-historic Edakkal Caves are two naturally occurring alcoves located in the Wayanad district of Kerala. The caves measure at a massive length and width of 96 and 22 feet respectively and lie 1200 metres above the sea level. Owing to its precarious location, one needs to trek for one and half hour (around 4000 ft) to hit the cave entrance, and another 45 minutes to reach the mouth of the cave. The Edakkal caves are of historical and archaeological significance as it has carvings that date back to the Neolithic era, the late Stone Age. The stonework in the interior of the cave is estimated to be as old as 5000 BC to 1000 BC. Edikkal literally means ‘a stone in between’ and aptly describes its formation. A smaller rock has wedged in between 2 bigger ones to form a natural cave. In the truest sense of the word, it is not a cave but a natural fissure in the rock which has a heavy boulder on top.
Kovalam
Kovalam is an idyllic coastal town located around 13 km from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Famous for its three adjacent crescent-shaped shallow water and low tidal beaches, Kovalam is dotted with resorts and ayurvedic massage centres. Earlier a fishing village, Kovalam started attracting tourists in the 1930s and shot to fame in the hippie epoch of 1970s. It still sees the influx of tourists from Israel and Europe. Ayurvedic treatments and massages are one of its most popular indulgences along with yoga, meditation as well as other cultural activities. Kovalam perhaps comes full circle as it is also a shopping destination given the rich spices, wooden statues and handicrafts that can make popular takeaways.
Kovalam Tourism
Kovalam has a beautiful beach surrounded by rows of green palm groves. It is one of the most picturesque beaches of India with a wide variety of water sports activities. The beach can be divided into three parts. Lighthouse beach, which lies to the South, the northernmost part is known as Samudra and Hawah which is located in the centre.
All three parts are frequented by travellers and have a wide offering of restaurants and beach resorts. The water activities which are offered by the sports clubs include parasailing, snorkelling, windsurfing and backwater cruise.
Lighthouse Beach
Located in Kovalam (Southern Kerala), the Lighthouse Beach is known for the 35 metres tall Vizhinjam Lighthouse, located on the top of the Kurumkal hillock. The lighthouse is entirely made of stones and coloured in red and white bands. Visitors love to reach the top of this tall structure by using a spiral staircase to click some memorable photographs. Lighthouse beach is a perfect spot to enjoy water activities and sports, such as surfing, parasailing and paragliding. Travellers also like to play volleyball on the beach. The beach is also well known for its lush palm plantations and trees that dot the entire area. Easy accessibility, lip-smacking food and affordable lodging add to the charm of this place.
Samudra beach
Samudra beach is a clean and isolated beach in Kovalam. A large promontory separates this northern beach from the southern side. This beach is also an excellent place to visit during one’s honeymoon. November to February would be a great time to visit Samudra beach. Samudra beach is where you can enjoy the sight of shoreline fishing and watch local fishermen ply their trade. There is also a mosque on this beach. There are a couple of food stalls on the beach as well. Although the beach has its own high season, it is still quite untouched by large scale tourism, thus preserving its serenity.
Hawah beach
Hawah is a stretch of isolated beach famous for its enchanting sunset views. Renowned as the second largest beach, it is also known as Eve’s Beach for it being the first topless beach in India. However, topless bathing is banned now.
Trivandrum
The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum is an appealing blend of a strongly rooted heritage and a nostalgic colonial legacy. Built upon seven hills, this city has long since left the days when it was only used by seafaring explorers behind – today, Trivandrum is a swanky metropolis with quaint urban charm and plenty of scenic places to visit. Proudly retaining its age-old cultural charm, Trivandrum offers a huge variety of sights including incredible museums, beautifully designed palaces, sacred temples and mesmerizing beaches, making the city one of the best tourist spots in South India. The city is home to a few museums such as the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum and the Napier Museum. The Kuthiramalika Palace Museum is situated close-by to the Padmanabhaswamy temple. Renowned for its Travancore styled architectural features and its structural elegance, this museum houses priceless paintings, traditional furniture, and other collections of the royal family.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
One of the 108 Divya Desams, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. Embellished in gold-plated covering, the temple is opened only to Hindu followers. Dedicated to Lord Padmanabha; one of the avatars of Lord Vishnu, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the principal centres of Vaishnava worship in the dharma of Vaishnavism. Built as a replica of the Adikesavaperumal Temple in Thiruvattar, the Padmanabhaswamy temple is well-preserved antiquity. Although the origin of this temple still remains a mystery, devotees believe it to have existed since the first day of the Kali Yuga, which was 5000 years ago. The Padmanabhaswamy temple also has a mention in the Bhagwad Gita. The scripture states that Balarama, the older brother of Lord Krishna frequented the temple, bathed in the Padmatheertham and also made several offerings the deity here.
Poovar Island
The most beguiling Poovar Island, located just 30 km away from Trivandrum, Kerala or the God’s own country, is the abode of natural beauty. Known for its pristine charm, the island is flocked by peace-lovers. Also known as the fishing village, the tranquil island lies between the Arabian Sea and the Neyyar River. The point where the sea, river and the land meets is a rare find in Kerala and a natural wonder. Poovar Island is truly a window into paradise. A visit to this heaven makes one feel that the clock has stopped ticking. The sheer beauty of this place goes well with the crashing sound of waves and chirping of birds. If you really want a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, head out to Poovar Island which is the best place to reinvent the finest moments of your life. You can come to have your ‘me-time’ or bring that special person on a romantic getaway, Poovar Island bets to make your vacation a happening one!
Observatory
Situated on a hill at an elevation of about 60 metres above sea level (the highest point in the city), this astronomical observatory offers exquisite views of the surroundings and the city as a whole. Beautiful roses can be found in the garden in front. It was built in 1837 and is part of the Department of Physics, University of Kerala today. It is fast developing as one of India’s most important astronomical centres with modern facilities like an 11-inch telescope, CCD camera, sun workstations, image processing facility and partnership with national programs. The observatory was a brainchild of Sri Swathi Tirunal, the Maharaja of Travancore who was an ardent follower of astronomy. He took a particular interest in equipping it with the best instruments available in Europe at that time. Along with astronomical equipment, meteorological observations were also paid attention. The instruments initially procured for the Observatory include a transit telescope with five feet focal length and four inches aperture, a transit clock, an altitude and azimuth instrument having 18 and 15-inch circles and powerful telescopes. Today, computational facilities, a library and audio-video facilities are available for students of the University. Sky-watching programs for students, teachers and the general public are organised in the evenings.
Kanakakunnu Palace
Close to the Napier Museum, the Kanakakunnu Palace was built under the rule of Travancore King. Today, the palace is host to plethora of cultural programs that are held on its premises.
Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary
Famous for its Lion and Deer Safari, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a treat for nature enthusiasts. The park houses a crocodile farm and elephant rehabilitation centre. Ask for a guided tour of the sanctuary which is quite informative.