“EXPLORING DOMESTIC SITES”
Misty mornings, fresh air, smiling faces, friendly locals, picturesque nature, and the essence of rich culture all constitute the splendour delight of Kerala. According to ancient Hindu mythology, Lord Parasurama – an incarnation of Lord Vishnu created Kerala. Therefore, Kerala is literally known as the “God’s Own Country”.
Kerala has never failed to amaze tourists across the globe with its breathtaking hill stations, backwaters, astounding beaches, wildlife, hamlets, and so on. Even the tradition there leaves a unique mark of appreciation such as the tradition of Keralites to eat meals during special occasions in the banana leaves or using coconut milk in most of the dishes and the list goes on.
Once you reach this ravishing spot of cloud, everything would just seem inconsequential in comparison. Planning a solo trip, honeymoon tour, family trips, romantic getaways, or a tour with your gang, this place won’t disappoint you at all in any terms.
Here we list the 32 most admired places of Kerala in brief. For more detailed information, you could always check the websites given below each destination. Or else you are free to access the official website of Kerala tourism, that is, https://www.keralatourism.gov.in
MUNNAR
The romantic journey you could take for one of the popular hill stations in Kerala is none other than Munnar. Munnar is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala. Munnar has an expanding land of tea plantations with a chilled atmosphere. This place is best suitable for all age groups. For more in – depth information visit this website link : https://www.munnar.com
- The right time to visit this destination is between the months of October and March.
ALLEPPEY :
One of the top backwater spots in Kerala is Alleppey. Houseboat stays with serene beauty makes it a wonderful place to travel. This region was termed as “Venice of the East” by Lord Curzon. Quaint chapels, paddy fields, lakes filled with lilies, fishing activities make it an appealing place to visit. For detailed information please visit this website link:https://alappuzhatourism.com
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of September to mid – May.
WAYANAD :
Wayanad in Malayalam means ‘land of paddy fields’. Beautiful trails, enriched with its culture and lush green environment induces one to come here over and over again. Haphazard spots of waterfalls give this place more attractive to visit and explore. For more information check the website link : https://wayanadtourism.org
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of October to May.
THEKKADY :
If you are into jungle adventures, come visit Thekkady which is rich for wild vegetation and thick forests. A place where almost endangered species like tigers, lion-tailed macaques, gaurs reside makes it much more thrilling to visit. There are several other animals who are inhabitants of this place. Such as elephants, bears, deer, lions, Great Indian tigers, and the list goes on. The exotic wildlife attracts several tourists every year. This place is also known for trekking and water sports. Therefore, it can be an adventurous destination to add to your list. For more detailed information please do check this website link :https://www.thekkady.com
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of November to early May.
KOVALAM :
One of the best and top beaches in India is Kovalam beach. All the facilities this place provides make it a tourist’s favorite spot. The crescent-shaped coastline is occupied with numerous activities to get involved in for fun. Water sports like parasailing, scuba diving, sea surfing, ayurvedic treatments, and sunbathing fests all make it up as the best features of this place. For a detailed research head forward to this website link : https://www.kovalam.com
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of September to May.
BEKAL :
Movie ‘Rang de Basanti’ has one of the best-rated tourist spots of Kerala and that is Bekal Fort. Bekal Fort was built in 1650 AD by Shivappa Nayaka of Keladi. It was built in polygonal shapes and laterite slabs which are impeccably maintained to date. For further information proceed with this website link : https://bekaltourism.com
- Best time to visit this destination is between the months of September to May.
VARKALA :
Another mesmerizing beach spot Kerala has to offer is Varkala beach. The enticing coastline on the cliff top is uncommercialized yet and worth it. Surfing, horse riding, boat riding, jetting, etc which falls under the ‘life of the beach’ are all available here. The surreal atmosphere and unmatched beauty make it a perfect trip. For some detailed information click this website link : https://www.varkkala.com
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of August to mid – May.
KAVVAYI BACKWATERS :
The intriguing charm of Kerala lies in Kavvayi’s backwater island. This place is locally known as “Kavvayi Kayal”. Kavvayi is considered to be the third-largest backwaters in Kerala and has an amazing capacity to attract people to travel here more than once. Cruising in the houseboats around the island is one good choice to make. For more details follow up this website link : https://www.kannurtourism.com
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of October to March.
PALAKKAD :
One of the beautiful districts of Kerala to explore is the Palakkad district. Mesmerizing lakes, lush green forests, beautiful dam, majestic forts and temples, pleasing weather, sprawling paddy estates all contribute to one refreshing tour to board for. Palakkad is also known to be the “Granary of Kerala”. For more details check this website link : https://www.palakkadtourism.in
- The Best time to visit this destination is between the months of November to March.
PONMUDI :
One of the tallest mountains in Kerala is Ponmudi. If you are an adventure freak and hold an interest in trekking and hiking, Ponmudi is one such destination Kerala offers. The magnificent landscape of Poovar is surreal to watch.
- Meenmutty falls, Ponmudi rocks, Mankayam waterfalls are the best attractions you will come across.
- The best time to visit this destination is throughout the year.
GURUVAYUR :
Guruvayur is one of the beautiful pilgrimages of Kerala. This is an ideal spiritual destination for those who embrace the essence of divine experiences. This less-crowded zone will help you gain more insight into the local culture of Kerala. For further information please check the website link :https://guruvayurdevaswom.nic.in
- Best time to visit this destination is between the months of October to March.
SABARIMALA :
Sabarimala witnessed the highest number of pilgrims visiting the divine place every year makes it the second-largest pilgrimage of Asia. Therefore, it is also known as the “Mecca of India”. It is the largest temple town in the country. This place nestles in the heart of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This Ayappan temple evokes the entire spiritual atmosphere from the moment you set the foot here. For further details follow up this website link:https://www.sabarimala.kerala.gov.in
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of September to April.
PEERUMEDU :
Peerumedu is a hill station to escape from the chaos. The exotic natural beauty this land offers, for instance, mystical hills, gushing waterfalls, grasslands makes it an ideal place to visit. It is also a land of existing tribals like Orali, Malayarayan, and Malapandaram. This destination offers a mixed transition of present and ancient culture. This destination attracts a plethora of tourists from different ranges.
- Best time to visit this destination is between the months of April to June and September to November.
THENMALA :
Thenmala is among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and keeps on attracting a number of travelers. The tea and rubber plantation of this place is an amazement to gaze at. Thenmala when literally translated means “Honey Hill” and it is aptly named because this land is one of the highest suppliers of honey (medicinal) throughout the regions. This place also has several activities to experience such as mountain biking, trekking, rock climbing, and so on. For further details click the following website link :https://www.thenmalaecotourism.com
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of December to February.
PATHANAMTHITTA :
Pathanamthitta is a famous pilgrim town of the state. The undisputed natural land with forest, rivers, mountain ranges, coconuts that groove at the peak, and beautiful architectural temple buildings adds up to the excitement of this place. For more details click the following website link : https://pathanamthittatourism.com
- Major attractions include Konni forest reserve, Kaviyoor rock temple, Perunthenaruvi waterfall, and so on.
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of September to February.
THOLPETTY :
Tholpetty is known to be the exotic habitat of wildlife. This place is actually a part of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary which is known for its flora and fauna. Watchtower located here helps us witness the animal kingdom in its own daily routine. Silver oak, Eucalyptus, and Teak trees cover a major portion of this land. For more detailed information check this website link : https://keralaforestecotourism.com
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of October to March.
CHERAI :
Cherai beach is again a well-known beach in Kerala to visit. It is situated in a quaint town on the Northern end of Vypin Island which is recommended for a private vacation. Sunbathing or building sandcastles and witnessing the dolphin around makes it a thrilling and peaceful atmosphere to choose. For more information check the website link : https://ernakulum.nic.in
- Famous tourist spots nearby include Vasco da Gama beach, Mangalavanam bird sanctuary, Mahatma Gandhi beach, and so on.
- The best time to visit this destination is all around the year.
MARAYOOR :
Marayoor is one amazing town surrounded by sandalwood forests throughout the land. It is shadowed by Sahyadri mountain ranges as well. The hills, jungles, and forests barge the bridge of a historical peak. The best are the historical rock paintings and ancient dolmens. The pristine beauty makes it worth the visit. For more in – depth information follow up this website link: https://www.munnar.com
- The major attractions here are as follows: sandalwood forest, Chinnar wildlife sanctuary, Kanthalloor waterfalls, and so on.
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of December to February.
KATTAPPANA :
If you are planning on a road trip, this is the best place for you. Kattappana has fairly good weather to wander and to seek peace. Curvy roads and mesmerizing views make it an amazing tour to head forward. This compact town will help you escape the daily hustles and attain blissful memories.
- Erattayar dam and Anchuruli waterfalls are major attractions.
- The best time to visit this destination is all around the year.
KUMARAKOM :
This place is located near one of the famous lakes of Kerala, that is, Vembanad Lake. It is one of the tranquil places of Kerala and is rich in exotic flora and fauna, alluring landscapes and inspiring weather. Kumarakom offers houseboat, cruising, boating, etc activities at this place. For more information check the website link : https://www.kumarakom.com
- Best time to visit this destination is between the months of September to May.
IDUKKI :
One of the rejuvenating places to visit in Kerala is the Idukki district. It lies between the luxurious forests and verdant hills. Nature enthusiasts and photography buffs would find solace here. All the aromatic tea plantations and spice plantations prove the undeniable beauty Idukki district holds. Nature walks, bird watching and treks are the types of activities you could engage with. For more information check the website link : https://www.dtcpidukki.com
- Major attractions here include Salim bird sanctuary and Thattekkad bird sanctuary.
- The best time to visit this destination is between the months of June to August and November to January.
MUNROE ISLAND :
This is a popular canal cruise destination at the confluence of River Kallada and Ashtamudi Lake. The scenic pleasure of the landscape with narrow canals, thatched houses, mangrove forests, and lagoons showcases the uniqueness of this place. This place is very well known for the Kallada Boat Race which held annually.
- Best time to visit this destination is throughout the year.
THRISSUR :
Well, the known festival of Kerala has its roots from this land, that is, “Thrissur Pooram” making it the cultural capital of Kerala. The picturesque scenery, beautiful waterfalls, and peaceful beaches add on to the charm of this place. The most famous waterfall of Kerala, that is, “Athirappilly waterfalls” is situated here and therefore is a must-visit. For more in – depth information please check the following website link :https://www.thrissurdtpc.com
- Other major attractions include Snehatheeram Beach which literally translates to ‘love shore’, Vadakkunnathan temple, Vazhachal waterfalls, and Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of October to March. Yet to experience the grandeur of the temple festival Thrissur Pooram, head over here in April – May.
POOVAR :
Are you looking for a tropical staycation? Poovar is the best destination for you. Poovar is situated in the Trivandrum district, Kerala. The amazing scenic beauty this destination provides with classy resorts occupying the shores of the beaches makes it an ideal destination to travel with your family or loved one.
- Tourist spots here are as follows : Arjuna backwaters, Poovar beach and Aazhimala Siva temple.
- Best time to visit this place is between the months of October to February.
MARARI :
One of the best beaches India has to offer is Marari Beach which also was categorized under the top 5 ‘Hammock Beaches’ by National Geographic. The white sand beach which looks like a paradise to the beach lovers is an extremely admirable destination to visit. There are several beach activities you can engage with.
- The popular destinations to visit here are Alappuzha beach, The Dutch Palace, Mararikulam Shiva temple, St. Andres Church, Thumpoly beach, and so on.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of September to May.
COCHIN :
One of the important port cities of Kerala is Cochin. It is also generously called the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. Every traveler who visits Kerala makes it a point to add Cochin to their list of hotspots. The perfect blend of modern ideas and local flavors is the highlight of this city. Head over to the famous corner of Cochin city, traditional spice market followed by backwaters and beaches. For more information check the website link : https://www.cochin.org
- Vypin beach, Fort Kochi, Marine Drive, St. Francis Church, Basilica of Santa Cruz, Chinese fishing nets, Bolgatty island, etc are a few of the beautiful places to pay a visit.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of July to April.
MALAMPUZHA :
Malampuzha is located in the Palakkad district of Kerala. Malampuzha is known as “India’s Spice” capital. The soothing atmosphere of this place makes every tourist comfortable. For more detailed information check this website link : https://www.malampuzhadam.com
- The best attractions are the Malampuzha dam, Thread garden, snake park, Palakkad fort, Malampuzha garden, Udankhatola, and so on.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of August to April.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM :
Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city of Kerala. It is the largest city of the place and therefore has a lot of tourist spots to visit. It is one of the finest and extravagant cities to live and thus is aptly called as the economic capital of the state as well. For more information check the following website link : https://www.trivandrum.nic.in
- The best attractions to visit here are as follows: Peppara dam and wildlife sanctuary, Kanakakunnu Palace, Kowdiar Palace, Aruvikkara dam, Anchuthengu fort, Neyyar dam and wildlife sanctuary and so on.
- Best time to visit this beautiful city is between the months of October to February.
KOLLAM :
Kollam is a treasure land of natural marvels. This land embraces the peace and tranquility for escaping the daily robotic scheduled life. Kollam is also known as the gateway to the backwaters providing a breathtaking picturesque. There are a number of ports which in the earlier phase was popular among the missionaries, merchants, and explorers. There are numerous lists of activities available; such as houseboats, paddlesport, ATV rides, bike tours, and canoeing, etc. For further details check the website link :https://www.dtpckollam.com
- Popular attractions to note here are Mahatma Gandhi beach, Trevally Palace, Jatay Earth’s Centre, Palaruvi waterfalls, Amritapuri, and the list goes on.
- The right time to visit this place is between the months of September to February.
NILAMBUR :
This unblemished nature of the place gives a throwback experience of colonial rule in the country. Blanketing a transition of art and culture, this land has beautiful memories to offer. Nilambur is also known as the “Land of the Teak Plantations”. The place is covered with Vanteak, rosewood, and mahogany woods all around. Extravagant rainforests, ancient tribal communities, royal mansions, enchanting waterfalls sum up Nilambur in short.
- The popular spots to visit here include : Aruvacode, Teak museum, Elembala hill, Valamthode waterfalls, and so on.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of October to March.
MANNARKKAD :
If you are a wildlife enthusiast make it a point to visit Mannarkkad (also known as a silent valley) located in the capital city of Kerala. This place is blessed with beautiful natural marvels including the enchanting rivers, forest-clad valley, cinnamon, pepper, and rubber plantations. Mannarkkad is known as the largest agricultural market in Kerala.
- The attractions nearby are Ooty, Palakkad, Wayanad and so on.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of May to September.
VYTHIRI :
If you want to spend a simple and ancient lifestyle Vythiri is the best place to visit. This destination is sure to bring an old charm with antique cottages, magnificent log huts, gorgeous tree houses, and so on.
- The best choice of spots to visit here are Chembra peak, Pookot lake, Soochipara falls, Banasura dam and so on.
- The best time to visit this place is between the months of October to April.
So, now what are you waiting for ?
You have enough information and reasons to explore Kerala. Head over to these places to experience the best days of your life. Utilize the most Kerala tourism has to offer you.