Cruise Through the Backwaters

No trip to Kerala is complete without experiencing the magical backwaters. The backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, rivers, and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea. The best way to explore this tranquil landscape is by embarking on a houseboat cruise. The most popular backwater destinations include Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom. As you glide through the still waters, you'll pass lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional villages.

Visit Munnar: The Land of Tea Gardens

Perched in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a hill station that captivates with its rolling tea plantations, misty hills, and cool climate. A visit to Munnar offers travelers a refreshing break from the tropical heat of Kerala. Explore the vast tea estates, visit the Tea Museum, and learn about the history and process of tea production in the region.

Things to Do in Munnar:

• Hike to the top of Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.
• Explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
• Take a boat ride on Mattupetty Dam and enjoy panoramic views.
• Stroll through the aromatic spice plantations.

Explore the Wildlife in Periyar National Park

For wildlife enthusiasts, Periyar National Park is a must-visit destination in Kerala. Located in Thekkady, this protected area is home to diverse flora and fauna. The park is best known for its elephant population, but you'll also find tigers, deer, langurs, and a variety of bird species.

Things to Do in Periyar:

• Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to spot animals near the water's edge.
• Go on a guided jungle safari for a chance to see elephants and tigers.
• Opt for a bamboo rafting experience in the heart of the forest.
• Visit the spice plantations around Thekkady and learn about Kerala’s rich spice trade.

Relax on the Beaches of Kovalam and Varkala

Kerala boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in India, and Kovalam and Varkala are two of the best. Kovalam, with its crescent-shaped coastline, is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in Ayurvedic treatments. On the other hand, Varkala offers dramatic cliffs that overlook the Arabian Sea and a laid-back vibe ideal for yoga and meditation retreats.

Things to Do in Kovalam and Varkala:

• Try surfing and other water sports in Kovalam.
• Explore the lighthouses and enjoy seafood at beachfront restaurants.
• Visit Varkala's Janardana Swami Temple, a pilgrimage site with beautiful sea views.
• Indulge in yoga and wellness programs at one of the many Ayurvedic resorts.

Experience Kerala's Rich Culture and Traditions

Kerala is a state deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. From classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam to traditional martial arts like Kalaripayattu, Kerala’s art forms are a window into its soul. Visitors can attend live performances and workshops to get a taste of the vibrant local culture.

Cultural Experiences to Try:

• Watch a Kathakali performance, where dancers in elaborate costumes enact stories from Hindu epics.
• Witness a Kalaripayattu martial arts show, an ancient form of combat training.
• Explore the temples and churches of Kerala, including the famous Guruvayur Temple and St. Francis Church in Kochi.
• Participate in the Onam festival if you're visiting in August or September, when Kerala comes alive with floral decorations, feasts, and traditional games.

Explore Fort Kochi: A Blend of History and Modernity

Kochi (Cochin), one of Kerala’s major cities, is a melting pot of cultures. Its rich colonial past is reflected in the architecture and attractions of Fort Kochi. Walk through the quaint streets, lined with buildings that tell the stories of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influence.

Things to Do in Fort Kochi:

• Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a hallmark of Kerala’s coastal history.
• Explore the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, which houses murals and artifacts from Kerala's royal past.
• Take a stroll through Jew Town and visit the Paradesi Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth.
• Explore art galleries and cafes in the area, which has become a hub for creative expression.

Get Adventurous in Wayanad

If you're looking for a dose of adventure, Wayanad in the northern part of Kerala offers thrilling experiences amidst nature. This hilly district is known for its spice plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. It's also a haven for trekking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Adventurous Things to Do in Wayanad:

• Trek to the Edakkal Caves to see ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years.
• Climb to the top of Chembra Peak, which offers a heart-shaped lake along the way.
• Visit the stunning Meenmutty and Soochipara waterfalls.
• Explore Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to elephants, tigers, and other wildlife.

Indulge in Authentic Kerala Cuisine

Kerala’s cuisine is as diverse and rich as its culture. The state is known for its use of spices, coconuts, and seafood, creating a cuisine that is both flavorful and unique. From the world-famous Kerala Sadya (a traditional vegetarian feast) to delicious seafood curries, there’s no shortage of culinary delights to explore.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Appam with Stew: A soft pancake made from fermented rice batter, served with a coconut-based vegetable or meat stew.
• Kerala Sadya: A grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, typically enjoyed during festivals.
• Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish marinated in spices and wrapped in a banana leaf before being grilled.
• Puttu and Kadala Curry: A traditional breakfast dish made from steamed rice flour and served with black chickpea curry.

Ayurvedic Wellness Retreats

Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, an ancient system of natural healing that has been practiced in India for over 5,000 years. The state is dotted with Ayurvedic wellness centers and resorts where visitors can indulge in rejuvenating treatments. Whether you're seeking relief from stress, or specific health treatments, or simply want to detoxify, Kerala's Ayurvedic retreats offer a range of therapies tailored to individual needs.

Popular Ayurvedic Treatments:

• Abhyanga (full-body massage with herbal oils)
• Shirodhara (pouring of warm oil on the forehead to promote mental clarity)
• Panchakarma (a detoxifying treatment that includes massage, steam baths, and herbal remedies)

Attend Kerala's Famous Festivals

Kerala's festivals are vibrant and colorful, offering visitors a chance to experience the state’s lively spirit. Onam, the harvest festival, is the most popular celebration in Kerala. It includes grand feasts, traditional games, flower carpets, and boat races. Another famous event is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, where long snake boats compete in a thrilling race on the Punnamada Lake in Alleppey.

Top Festivals in Kerala:

• Onam: A 10-day harvest festival celebrated with feasts, floral decorations, and traditional dances.
• Thrissur Pooram: Known as the festival of festivals, it’s a grand celebration involving parades of decorated elephants, drum performances, and fireworks.
• Vishu: The traditional New Year celebration in Kerala, marked by rituals, feasts, and fireworks.

Conclusion

Kerala is a destination that offers a diverse range of experiences, from its serene backwaters to its majestic hills, rich culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into India's cultural and historical past, Kerala has something for every type of traveler. As you explore the wonders of God's Own Country, you’ll find that Kerala’s beauty lies not just in its landscapes, but also in its traditions, people, and way of life.

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