A list of the 10 most popular tourist places in Kerala will tell you about the best locations to visit in this beautiful state.
The Indian State of Kerala represents the centuries-old Malayalam culture and surreal beauty of nature. Vast sea beaches, misty mountains, serene backwaters, diverse wildlife, and dense green forests- all these elements justify why Kerala is called God's own country. Besides the mesmerizing natural beauty, Kerala is home to warm and welcoming Keralan citizens whose hospitality will make you go back to this state again and again.
There is no shortage of picturesque travel destinations in Kerala, and it is often overwhelming to choose the right ones. So, the following list of the 10 most popular tourist places in Kerala will tell you about the best locations to visit in this beautiful state.
#1 Kochi or Cochin
Kerala's capital city Kochi takes pride in its glorious past and contemporary culture of trading. The serene sea beaches of Kochi are ideal for indulging in picture-perfect sunsets or taking a long stroll along the Marine Drive Promenade.
The Queen of Arabian Sea, Kochi is an excellent location for couples to spend their honeymoon due to its peaceful setting. Apart from the romantic beaches like Veeranpuzha Beach and Cherai Beach, you can visit the famous Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), and Santa Cruz Basilica to get a glimpse of the colonial culture and history of Kerala.
Kochi remains at its best during the rainy season as the lush green surroundings are not occupied by too many tourists. Usually, travelers prefer coming to Kerala between October and February.
#2 Alleppey
As British Governor Lord Curzon rightly described Alleppey as the "Venice of the East," this picturesque place in Kerala is surrounded by tranquil backwaters and large canals. If you wish to feel the rustic and leisurely flavor of country life, then there cannot be a better place than Alleppey in the packages of Kerala tourism.
Due to the presence of palm trees and tropical forests, Alleppey looks more vibrant during the monsoon months. One of the main cultural festivals that attract travelers here in August is the Alleppey Snake Boat Race. Taking a houseboat ride is the most suitable way of transport to explore the backwaters of Alleppey.
You can also visit other significant places like Krishnapuram Palace, Alappuzha Beach, Arthunkal Church, and Marari Beach, etc., to have a wholesome experience.
#3 Munnar
Being one of the most famous hill stations in Kerala, Munnar is all about gorgeous views of the Western Ghats, lush green tea plantations, and a peaceful vibe. Located far away from the bustling cities, Munnar is a hidden paradise for nature lovers. Either winter or Monsoon is the ideal time to visit this quaint hill station.
For the experience of thrilling adventure and rich wildlife, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park are some great travel destinations. Besides those, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Mattupetty Dam, Blossom Park, and Top Stations should be on your Munnar itinerary.
#4 Wayanad
Another famous hill station in Kerala, Wayanad welcomes you with its misty mountain ranges and shades of green. Wayanad is covered by vast plantations of tea, coffee, spice, and paddy, and you cannot but fall in love with all the greeneries. This hilly paradise can be best enjoyed from October to March. Also, several adventure activities like trekking, camping, and rafting have increased the popularity of Wayanad among young travelers.
Places like Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Neelimala View Point, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves should be at the top of your list during a trip to Wayanad.
#5 Varkala
A not so touristy yet spectacular beach town in Kerala, Varkala is situated along the shores of the great Arabian sea. So, if you want to remain away from the crowds, then this is the exact place for you. This beach town is quite famous among the pilgrims. According to popular belief, taking a bath in Papanasam Beach can purify the souls and make people free from their sins.
There is also a hot spring which many believe holds medicinal and curative properties. The Janardan Swami Temple is another tourist attraction which is popularly known as 'Dakshin Kashi' or 'Banaras of the South'. You can also get a relaxing massage in the Ayurvedic beach centers.
The other tourist attractions are Anchengu Fort and Lighthouse, Sivagiri Mutt, and many seafood restaurants. Try to visit Varkala between October and March for the utmost experience.
#6 Kovalam
Kovalam is one of the most favorite holiday places in Kerala. If you want to cherish the beauty of nature and also have some fun, then Kovalam holds a plethora of options for you. The town has many luxurious hotels and even a few Ayurveda massage centers to relieve you from all the stress.
The beach town is brimming with various art galleries and temples that are great to explore. You can have a nice walk along the beach during sunrise or sunset. The beach is quite popular among adventure sport lovers as it holds a surfing facility. If you are looking for introspection and want to unwind yourself, then you must pay a visit to Kovalam.
The other tourist attractions are Hawa Beach, Samudra Beach, Kovalam Beach, Valiyathura Pier, Karamana River, etc. The best time to visit the beautiful town is between November and February. Kovalam is well connected to other locations through Trivandrum International Airport and Trivandrum railway station.
#7 Thiruvananthapuram
The name "Evergreen City Of India" was given to Thiruvandapuram owing to innumerable verdant parks that are located here. Wide sandy beaches, pristine backwaters, and tiny ponds complete the green landscape of this small town.
If you want to experience the enriched diverse cultural and religious tradition of Thiruvananthapuram, then locations like Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Attukal Temple, Kowdiar Palace, Palkulangara Devi Temple, and Malankara Church must be visited.
A visit to the Vellayani Lake, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, and Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium will also be great for a complete trip.
#8 Kumarakom
Located besides the peaceful Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a quaint town straight out of those picture books. The place is filled with natural wonders and wilderness like Kumarakom beach, Kumarakom bird sanctuary, and Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls.
The Ayurvedic centers and heritage resorts make this an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday. During the winter and spring season, several migratory birds fly to the nearby Pathiramanal Island. Kumarakom is especially recommended to those travelers who want to experience the laid back village lifestyle, bird watching, and pristine nature.
#9 Kannur
Kannur was formerly an important trade center of the South during the British. Therefore, you can experience an amalgamation of local Malayalam traditions and colonial culture if you make a trip to Kannur. St. Angelo Fort is a fantastic place to explore for history lovers.
Watching the sunrise or taking a stroll along the Payyambalam Beach, a boat ride in the Laccadive Sea, and indulging in the natural beauty of Aralam wildlife sanctuary are some of the most recommended activities to enjoy in Kannur. The most convenient mode of traveling to Kannur is via train.
#10 Thekkady
Want to spend some time among the wildlife of India? Then Thekkady in the western ghats of Kerala should be on your list. The main tourist attraction is the Periyar National park to experience adventure activities. Mother nature has blessed this place with all kinds of natural beauty. You can spot tigers, elephants, and migrant birds while taking a safari ride. You can have a boat ride in the lake inside the national park.
The other major attractions are nature walks, jungle patrolling, and the spice plantations. Eco-friendly resorts are the most suitable places for overnight stays. To reach Thekkady, you can get down at Kochi International Airport, which is 160 km away from this place.
If you are traveling by train Kottayam am is the nearest railway station, which is 114 km away from Thekkady. The weather remains pleasant for the whole year to visit the national park. You can visit Thekkady at any time of the year.
While planning your trip to these ten popular places in Kerala, you can take the help of the circuit planner tool of Adotrip to know about the suitable time, medium of transport, and other essential aspects of the trip. Kerala tourism has much more to offer than just the so-called touristy things. So, explore the vastness of the natural and cultural beauty of Kerala.
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