In South India, Kerala is often known as “God’s Own Country”. This is a coastal state which is rich in culture and distinctive traditions, plus lush and unspoiled tropical beauty. Even more important, Kerala is well-known for its elaborate temple festivals, elephants and the peaceful backwaters. There is a slow pace of life here, which makes Kerala the perfect place for a vacation of leisure.
Kerala Tourist Places
1. Athirapally
This is the largest waterfall in Kerala, and is an important destination for tourists. It started as a sliver streak from high ranges, crashing through gorges that were lined with trees and wild bushes, this waterfall gains its strength and size as it barrels down at its final spot before it joins with the downstream rivers. It is one of the greatest places in India to enjoy the serene charm of nature. During the monsoon is the best time to explore Athirapally. It is easily accessible and an ideal spot for a retreat in nature’s lap.
2. Wynad
With its unique and strange geographical position, Wynad is blessed with sylvan Valleys and mountains clad in mist. It is found in an elevated picturesque mountains plateau in the Western Ghats. Rich in history, natural wonders and tradition, it has a vast expanse of spice scented breezes, greenery, hypnotizing scenic beauty and mist capped mountains. The Kabini river system of Wynad is the perennial source of water to Cauvery and the district enjoys the beauty of this delightful landscape which is covered with thick forests.
3. Thiruvananthapuram
The capital of Kerala state, this ancient city was the spiritual center of Travancore kings back to the eleventh century and then became their capital in 1750. The most conspicuous landmark of the city is the 16th century Padmanabhaswamy. It is found near KSRTC Busstabd at East Fort, and no one is allowed into the temple except Hindus. The Palace Museum, Kuthiramalika, is found near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma built the temple and it is used to highlight his artistic ideas and thoughts. On exhibit here you can find the invaluable and rare collection of Travancore’s royal family.
4. Bekal Beach
In the northernmost part of Kerala Kasargod, you can find the long and lovely Bekal Bach. The Bekal Fort found in the middle gives a feeling of enchantment. You can view the sea from the ramparts of the fort, or you can swim, walk or picnic. This is a declared spot for tourism, so any of the amenities are given for all budgets and the roads are kept in good condition and the beach clean. From the town of Kasargod, it lies at a distance of 16km.
5. Muzhuppilangad Beach
This beach lies 5km north of Thalassery and 15km from Kannur. A winding and unpaved road leads you through coconut groves to the beach. The beach itself is 5km long and it curves in a wide stretch. You can even see the Kannur beach situated to the north. Green Island is around two hundred meters away but the biggest attraction is the five acre Dharmadam Island because of its beauty. In a time of low tide, you can walk to the island if you have gotten permission from the owners. The rocky shores there are amazingly beautiful.
6. Cochin (Kochi)
This is the most modern and cosmopolitan city, plus the commercial hub of Kerala. It is also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. The main tourist attractions you’ll find here are the St. Francis Church which is the oldest European church in India, the Jewish Synagogue, the Hill Palace, Mattancherry Palace, Bolgatty Palace, Fort Kochi, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Willingdon Island, the Vasco house and the Chinese Fishing Nets. Other sites that allure visitors are the Fort Kochi Beach, the international marina and the splendors of Backwaters of Kochi.
7. Thrissur
This is the festival of the city of Pooram, and it is held in the month of April. It has become renowned over the world amongst tourists, and even though it is a Hindu religious festival, it has become secular and a huge attraction for domestic and foreign tourists. It is a festival of colors, sounds and different traditional and modern art forms. The large number of caparisoned elephants is a great sight for everyone, and it is located around 300 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
8. Alappuzha Backwaters
Meandering inland lagoons and lakes which are networked by canals that lie parallel to the sea coast are the backwaters. These prominent backwaters stretches of Kerala are Kumarakom, Alapuzha, Kollam, Kochi and Thiruvallam. The longest backwater cruise in Kerala is the one that runs between Kollam and Alappuzha, taking almost eight hours. During August and September, the Snake Boat races are held, attracting thousands of people from abroad and India. There are several famous boat races and the mesmerizing and enchanting Houseboat ride in the backwaters is an experience you won’t soon forget.
9. Munnar
A trip to Munnar is a must if you like tea, as this region is known for its sprawling tea plantations. You can watch tea being picked and processed, and try it fresh straight from the gardens. There is even a museum on tea. The area boasts beautiful, natural and winding lanes, forests teeming with wildlife and exotic plans as well as misty hills. People seeking adventure can trek to Anamudi, which is the highest peak in south India, go rock climbing and para gliding or explore the Eravikulam National Park.
10. Periyar National Park
Located in the Thekkady district, Kerala’s Periyar National Park is one of the most popular nation parks in all of southern India. One of the best things about the park is that it stays open all year long, even during the monsoonseason. The park is known for its elephants, and they offer thirty minute elephant rides through the jungle. Safaris are taken by boat, with the lake being especially beautiful during sunset. There are also many eco-tourism activities that tourists can partake in.
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