Top sights in Kerala

 

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is renowned for its lush landscapes, tranquil backwaters, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Here is a comprehensive list of must-visit tourist places in Kerala:

Hill Stations

1. Munnar:

   • Famous for tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool climate.
   • Key attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, Mattupetty Dam, and Tea Museum.

2. Wayanad:

   • Known for its wildlife, waterfalls, and spice plantations.
   • Key attractions: Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

3. Thekkady:

   • Famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice gardens.
   • Key attractions: Periyar Lake, Murikkady, and Kadathanadan Kalari Centre.

4. Vagamon:

   • Known for its lush greenery, meadows, and pine forests.
   • Key attractions: Vagamon Meadows, Pine Hill, and Thangalpara.

Backwaters

5. Alleppey (Alappuzha):

   • Renowned for houseboat cruises and backwater canals.
   • Key attractions: Alleppey Beach, Vembanad Lake, and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

6. Kumarakom:

   • Famous for bird watching and serene backwaters.
   • Key attractions: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, and Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall.

Beaches

7. Kovalam:

   • Popular for its crescent-shaped beaches and lighthouses.
   • Key attractions: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.

8. Varkala:

   • Known for its cliffs, natural springs, and Papanasam Beach.
   • Key attractions: Varkala Beach, Sivagiri Mutt, and Janardanaswamy Temple.

9. Cherai Beach:

   • Famous for its long sandy beach and shallow waters.
   • Located near Kochi, it's ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Cultural and Historical Sites

10. Fort Kochi:

    • Known for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and vibrant culture.
    • Key attractions: St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Mattancherry Palace, and Jew Town.

11. Thrissur:

    • Cultural capital of Kerala, famous for temples and festivals.
    • Key attractions: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur Zoo, and Kerala Kalamandalam.

12. Palakkad:

    • Known for its forts, temples, and wildlife.
    • Key attractions: Palakkad Fort, Silent Valley National Park, and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks

13. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady):

    • Famous for elephants, tigers, and scenic boat rides.
    • Activities: Wildlife safaris, bamboo rafting, and trekking.

14. Silent Valley National Park:

    • Known for its rich biodiversity and pristine rainforest.
    • Key attractions: Kunthi River, unique flora and fauna, and nature trails.

15. Eravikulam National Park:

    • Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the Anamudi Peak.
    • Best time to visit: During the blooming season of Neelakurinji flowers (once every 12 years).

Waterfalls

16. Athirappilly Falls:

    • Known as the "Niagara of India," it's the largest waterfall in Kerala.
    • Located near Thrissur, it's a popular spot for nature lovers and film shootings.

17. Vazhachal Falls:

    • Located close to Athirappilly, it's surrounded by lush greenery.
    • Ideal for picnics and nature walks.

18. Meenmutty Falls:

    • A three-tiered waterfall located in Wayanad.
    • Accessible through a challenging hike, offering breathtaking views.

19. Soochipara Falls:

    • Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, located in Wayanad.
    • A popular spot for trekking, rock climbing, and swimming.

Pilgrimage Sites

20. Sabarimala:

    • One of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage centers, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
    • Located in the Western Ghats, attracting millions of devotees annually.

21. Guruvayur Temple:

    • An important pilgrimage site for Hindus, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
    • Known for its unique rituals and elephant sanctuary.

22. Padmanabhaswamy Temple:

    • Located in Thiruvananthapuram, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
    • Renowned for its rich history, architecture, and treasure troves.

Ayurveda and Wellness

23. Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala:

    • A renowned Ayurvedic treatment center located in Malappuram.
    • Offers traditional treatments and therapies.

24. Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort:

    • Located in Kovalam, offering rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments.
    • Combines wellness with beachside relaxation.

Unique Experiences

25. Bekal Fort:

    • The largest fort in Kerala, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
    • Located in Kasaragod, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.

26. Munroe Island:

    • Situated at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River.
    • Famous for canal cruises, coir retting, and traditional village life.

27. Veli Tourist Village:

    • A picturesque spot near Thiruvananthapuram, known for its backwaters and parks.
    • Offers boating, horse riding, and picnic facilities.

Each of these destinations showcases the diverse beauty and cultural richness of Kerala, making it a perfect place for a memorable vacation.