Kerala, fondly known as “God’s Own Country,” is a traveler’s paradise. Nestled on the southwestern coast of India, it offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a variety of unique experiences. From the lush green hill stations and serene backwaters to pristine beaches and wildlife sanctuaries, Kerala is a land of diverse landscapes and activities. If you're planning a trip to Kerala, this guide will provide you with essential tips and a detailed overview of the top things to do to make the most out of your journey.
The backwaters of Kerala are one of the most iconic experiences this state has to offer. A cruise through the serene network of lakes, rivers, and lagoons allows you to soak in the peaceful surroundings while enjoying Kerala's rustic beauty. Popular areas for backwater tours include Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom.
Tips:
Best Time: The best time to explore the backwaters is between November and February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Houseboat Stay: Opt for a night stay on a houseboat for a more immersive experience. Many houseboats come equipped with modern amenities while providing a taste of traditional Kerala hospitality.
Booking: Book your houseboat experience in advance through reliable platforms like EaseOtrip.com to avoid last-minute hassle.
Kerala is home to some of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady offer a cool escape from the tropical heat, and each has its own unique charm.
Munnar: Known for its sprawling tea gardens, Munnar is ideal for tea lovers and those seeking some quiet time amidst nature. You can visit tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints here.
Thekkady: Famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts. You can take boat safaris to spot animals, trek through the jungle, or even try bamboo rafting.
Wayanad: A more offbeat destination, Wayanad offers stunning waterfalls, caves, and trekking opportunities. The lush green landscape makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tips:
Trekking: Carry comfortable shoes and warm clothing if you’re visiting hill stations as temperatures can dip, especially in the evenings.
Booking: For popular hill stations like Munnar, book accommodation in advance through EaseOtrip.com, especially during peak season.
Sightseeing: Plan your sightseeing trips early in the day to avoid the mist that often covers the viewpoints in the afternoons.
Kerala is famous for its ancient Ayurvedic traditions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing massage or an intensive detox program, you’ll find many Ayurvedic centers across Kerala offering authentic treatments.
Tips:
Choosing a Center: Look for Ayurvedic centers that are government-approved or certified to ensure authenticity and safety.
Consultation: It’s recommended to start with a consultation with an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine the treatments best suited for your needs.
Book in Advance: Some treatments take a few days, so plan accordingly and book your wellness program in advance.
Kerala’s coastline offers some of the most beautiful and less crowded beaches in India. Kovalam and Varkala are among the top destinations for beach lovers. While Kovalam is known for its resorts and lighthouses, Varkala has a more relaxed, cliff-top vibe with yoga retreats and scenic views.
Tips:
Beach Activities: Kovalam offers more water activities like surfing and parasailing, while Varkala is ideal for a more laid-back experience.
Local Cuisine: Don't miss out on fresh seafood dishes available at the beachside shacks.
Sunset Views: Both Kovalam and Varkala offer stunning sunset views over the Arabian Sea, making for a perfect end to the day.
Kerala has a vibrant cultural history that visitors can experience through its traditional art forms, temples, and festivals. One of the best ways to dive into the local culture is by attending a Kathakali or Mohiniyattam dance performance. These classical dance forms tell ancient stories through elaborate facial expressions, hand gestures, and intricate costumes.
Tips:
Kochi (Cochin) is a city steeped in history and is one of the most important cultural and commercial hubs of Kerala. It’s a perfect blend of traditional and modern Kerala, with its colonial architecture, ancient churches, and vibrant arts scene.
Tips:
For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to Periyar National Park is a must. Located in Thekkady, this wildlife sanctuary is known for its elephants and rich biodiversity.
Tips:
Kerala is known for its flavorful and diverse cuisine, heavily influenced by its spices, coconut, and seafood. From vegetarian feasts like Sadya to spicy fish curries, there's something for every palate.
Tips:
Try a Sadya Meal: If you get the chance, try Sadya, a traditional vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf, especially during festivals. It includes a variety of dishes like rice, sambar, avial, and payasam (dessert).
Seafood Lovers: Don't miss Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish), a local delicacy.
Street Food: Kerala is also famous for its street food, such as banana chips, puttu with kadala curry, and parotta with beef fry.
Kerala’s snake boat races are thrilling and spectacular events, particularly during the monsoon season. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race held in Alleppey is one of the most famous, where teams row long snake boats in perfect synchronization.
Tips:
Book Early: If you're planning to witness a boat race, book your tickets early as they tend to sell out quickly.
Best Time: The races are usually held during the monsoon season (June to September), so plan your trip accordingly.
Where to Watch: Alleppey and nearby towns host most of the famous boat races.
Kerala is known for its colorful festivals, the most famous being Onam and Thrissur Pooram. Festivals offer a deep insight into the local culture, with traditional music, dance, and grand processions.
Tips:
Onam: If you’re visiting during Onam (August/September), you can enjoy the grand feast called Onam Sadya and witness traditional games and boat races.
Thrissur Pooram: Known as the “mother of all festivals,” Thrissur Pooram is held in May and features a grand parade of decorated elephants and a magnificent display of fireworks.
Local Interaction: Festivals are an excellent opportunity to interact with locals and understand Kerala’s cultural heritage.
Kerala offers an unparalleled travel experience, with its rich landscapes, diverse activities, and cultural richness. Whether you’re cruising through its famous backwaters, exploring wildlife in Periyar, or relaxing on the sandy beaches of Kovalam, there is something for everyone in this incredible state.
Planning a trip to Kerala? Let EaseOtrip.com help you tailor your dream vacation. With customized itineraries, accommodation options, and hassle-free bookings, your journey to Kerala is sure to be as smooth as it is unforgettable.
