God’s own country, Kerala is adorned with beaches that draw the attention of many tourists. Out of the many popular beaches in Kerala, a beach that requires mention is the Alleppey Beach.
Not only does it offer the view of a majestic flora and fauna, but, it also presents to the entire world a confluence of many water bodies. The sea is met by the backwaters, lagoons and rivers because of which this place is unique and leaves the visitors in a trance of tranquillity.
While searching for the most popular backwater destinations in Kerala, Alleppey is one such destination that must not be missed in any ways! Located on the banks of the prismatic Vembanad Lake, this gorgeous city is the ‘Mecca’ for the backwater vacationers on a Kerala trip!
Fringed with lush coconut groves, adorned with endless lagoons, and embraced by the charm of silent backwaters, Alleppey is a paradise for the visitors! Owing to the swaying beauty and enchanting charm of this city, it is also often called the ‘Venice of the East’, and is one of the most popular backwaters destinations in Kerala. Whether leisure seekers, honeymooners, adventure seekers, or visitors from any walk of life, everyone can visit this wonderful destination and curate pleasant memories with their friends and families. And while visiting Alleppey, visitors should not miss out the houseboat cruises across the Vembanad Lake and enjoy the pristine beauty of the backwaters.
Said to be the 'Niagara of Kerala', the Athirapally waterfalls is a mind-boggling site, which will definitely make you relaxed and rejuvenated. The largest waterfall of Kerala, Athirappally forms over Chalakudy River in Vazhachal forests of the Western Ghats. A must visit place in Kerala, Athirappally always refreshes your mind making you forget all the busy schedules of your life. The splashing water, the soothing climate, the greenish nature, everything is fresh at Athirappally. Athirappally is the best spot for an adventurous trip. Trekking deep into the forest is something that will never fade away from your mind.
The 80 feet waterfall will be at its fullest during the months from July to September. This is the monsoon season of Kerala and the beauty of the waterfall during these months is above words to explain. The waterfalls from a height falls down and hits the rocks below, the droplets will splash upon your face. If you are planning to take snapshots of this beautiful falls, it will be somewhat a difficult task for you. The droplets will play with your lens...The roaring falls is wild and you must be careful while climbing over the rocks, as it may be slippery.
Dreamworld and WhiteWater World are home to more than 40 rides, slides & attractions! ABC Kids World is home to 8 rides and attractions, as well as opportunities to meet ABC Kids and Wiggles Characters.
The DreamWorks experience has 10 rides and attractions, plus the opportunity to meet some of your favorite Dreamworks heroes
Situated on the broad expanse of the Malabar coastline, Bekal beach is popular for its backwaters, forts and scenic beauty. It's a very small region on the shores of Arabian Sea, which is known for its unparalleled charm that holds various attractions and offers a perfect traditional Keralite hospitality to its visitors. A beautiful view of the sun, sand, sea, and swaying palm trees adjoining the beach add more charm to the outstanding landscape. Bekal is a perfect tourist spot, popular for its scenic beauty and this grabs the attention of visitors from different places. It's a fascinating place to visit during the vacation as you can take the pleasure of nature and rejuvenate yourself. x
Situated on the broad expanse of the Malabar coastline, Bekal beach is popular for its backwaters, forts and scenic beauty. It's a very small region on the shores of Arabian Sea, which is known for its unparalleled charm that holds various attractions and offers a perfect traditional Keralite hospitality to its visitors. A beautiful view of the sun, sand, sea, and swaying palm trees adjoining the beach add more charm to the outstanding landscape. Bekal is a perfect tourist spot, popular for its scenic beauty and this grabs the attention of visitors from different places. It's a fascinating place to visit during the vacation as you can take the pleasure of nature and rejuvenate yourself. A set of 45 caves known as the Nityanandashram caves, forts, temples, mosques, the aqua park, etc., are its major attractions. Apart from all such attractions and grand fort, Bekal is also far-famed for its striking beaches. During your visit to Bekal, don't miss the famous drink 'Payasam', offered by the Bekal people. Visiting this place in the month of January and March will bring lots of fun and enjoyment as you'll get a glance of 'Theyyam Performance', a ritual dance which is considered as a big affair in the towns of Northern Kerala. So, do plan for a Bekal trip, you'll have a wonderful experience exploring this beach with exciting attractions all around.
Built almost 300 years ago, Bekal Fort is considered as one of the largest and most preserved forts in Kerala. Nestled in the lap of nature, Bekal Fort is a historic fort surrounded by a beautiful beach offering an enchanting view of Arabian Sea from its high observation tower where once the cannons were placed. The beautiful walkway,
illuminated beach and the grand architecture of the Bekal Fort make this place a favourite among the masses. The fort was featured in the popular A R Rahman song ' Tu hi re'. Located at 65 kms away from Mangalore, Bekal Fort is a keyhole-shaped lofty structure that stands still against the rocky shores of sea amusing its visitors with its finesse. The whole purpose of erecting this structure by Shivappa Nayaka of Bednore in the year 1650 was pure of defence.
Chinese fishing nets, also known as Cheena wala are seen quite frequently in Kochi. These are stationary lift nets fixed at a particular place operated from the shore using mechanical contrivances to fishing nets almost 20m across.
This unique way of fishing was introduced by the Chinese traders in the 14th century extending its relevance to “Ko-chi”, meaning China like. Sunsets across the backwaters, rivers or sea offer a panoramic splendour of the skyline with silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets in the backdrop.
Marine drive is a quaint destination amongst the many Cochin tourist places the Kerala takes pride in. Exclusively built facing the backwaters, it offers a charming and a picturesque image especially during the evening hours attracting the locals and tourists alike.
Along with the Rainbow bridge, which is a major draw for tourists, the Marine drive is lined with Shopping malls, fast food joints and other important landmark buildings of Kochi. Be ready to be allured by the gentle breeze while enjoying a walk down the promenade enjoying the company of your loved ones.
This Portuguese palace, also known as the Dutch Palace is one of the prime places to visit in Kochi due to its historic relevance. This quadrangular palace built in typical Kerala Nalukettu style has a courtyard in the centre where is seated the Pazhayannur Bhagavati' the goddess of Kochi royal family.
The flooring of the palace is a sight to behold, as because it looks like polished black marble, but has been made the traditional Kerala way using burnt coconut shells, lime, charcoal, egg white etc giving a lasting finish. The reputation of the Palace is in the various murals painted in warm and rich colours the tempura style.
This is one of the largest amusement parks in Kochi having water rides, land rides, 3D rides and several other fun rides to keep the visitors entertained. This is one of those places to visit in Kochi if you are accompanied by a kid or an adventure seeker by nature.
Caterpillar village, adventures of Chikku, Dashin cars, Fire Brigade, Sky wheel, Windmill and wonder splash are a few of its major attraction. Weekends are filled with locals having a ball of a time with friends and family. The Wonderla Pass gives access to special discount packages with added enjoyment.
Located 16 km away from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), Kovalam is awesomely beautiful and a haven of serenity. It's a pleasant tourist spot in 'God's Own Country'. It's a magnificent beach supported by sharply mounting headlands and enclosed by fertile coconut palms. Placed snugly in the southern part of Kerala,Kovalam has created its presence fingered on the worldwide tourist map, due to its clean and bizarre beaches lined with glittering sand and tall light houses.
The privy coves, sun kissed beaches, and the coastal towns of Kovalam enliven with its freshening up nature and the pristine atmosphere. It's divided into two main beaches namely the Eve's beach and the Lighthouse beach. It offers the best facilities to its beach lovers like swimming, Ayurvedic massages, sunbathing, and many other options.
In the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city lies the great Napier Museum and the Natural History Museum in the Museum compound, close to the Zoological park. Built in the 19th century, it has its own natural air-conditioning system. It contains a host of historical artefacts including bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. People are especially impressed by the Japanese shadow-play leather that is used to depict the epics of the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
Kerala's rich cultural heritage is in full display here. The museum was named after the former Madras Governor General, John Napier. Also known as Government Art Museum, the architectural style of museum is a mix of Indian, Chinese, Kerala and Mughal Schools of Architecture.
The Padmanabhaswamy temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu situated in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, is considered to be world’s richest temple, due to donations that it has been receiving over the ages. But there is more to this temple than its sheer wealth. Its architecture has a unique blend of both Kerala and Dravidian styles of neighbouring states.
Barely two km from the city’s main railway station, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple dominates the capital of Kerala. In fact, it has also given its name to the city of Thiruvananthapuram, which translates into the abode of Lord Vishnu. Historians remain divided about its origins, though some say that the Padmanabhaswamy temple dates back to 8th century. But the present structure was built in the 18th century by the Travancore Maharaja Marthanda Varma. Since then, the temple has been run by a trust controlled by the descendants of the Travancore royal family. Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple is one of 108 Divya Desams (holy abodes of Lord Vishnu). Here the Lord reposes in “Anantha Shayana” posture, a reclined posture of eternal yoga, on Adi Shesha upon five kinds of serpents. Lord Vishnu statute, along with three Abhisheka murties is in gold find place in the centre, lord Vishnu’s idol rests its right hand over a Shiva Lingam while surrounded by goddesses, Lord Brahma emerges on a lotus from the idol’s naval.
As you step past the gates of the Zoological Park in Thiruvananthapuram,an immediate hush falls as all the visitors collectively draw in their breath in awe. There is a furry Macaque staring right back at you while a little ahead the exotic Nilgiri Langur playfully teases you. In a few more steps it dawns on you; you are in a literal jungle, right in the heart of the city. Said to be among the oldest of its kind in all of Asia, the zoo was built under the reign of the former ruler of Travancore, Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma. Dated to about 1857, one can still see some of the older structures that have been renovated over time.
The finest avian species, brought here from around the world, dazzle your senses with an exorbitant display of colours. Throughout your walkyou are under a canopy of massive trees like mahogany, teak and fig. There is a pond at the heart of the zoo where one can view nesting Pelicans, Storks and Herons in their natural habitat. Further on, you find a pride of Lions lazily napping in the middle of their lush enclosure with Bengal Tigers, White Tigers and Leopards giving it company nearby. Towards the exit is the famous reptile house where people can view turtles, pythons, vipers, cobras and the main attraction, the gigantic Green Anaconda. You make your exit with a magnificent peacock saluting you on completing the journey, with thoughts and plans of your next visit already firmly in mind. This park needs to be experienced a number of times to truly realise its sheer magnificence and magnitude.
Varkala, a calm and quiet hamlet, lies on the outskirts of the Thiruvananthapuram district. It has several tourist attractions that include a beautiful beach, a 2000-year-old Vishnu Temple, and the Ashramam - Sivagiri Mutt a little distance from the beach. The Papanasam Beach (also called Varkala Beach), which is ten kilometers away from Varkala, is renowned for its natural spring. Which is considered to have medicinal and curative properties. A dip in the holy waters at this beach is believed to purge the body of impurities and the soul of all sins; hence the name 'Papanasam Beach'.
A two-thousand-year-old shrine the Janardhanaswamy Temple stands on the cliffs overlooking the beach, a short distance away. The Sivagiri Mutt, founded by the great religious reformer and philosopher Sree Narayana Guru (1856 - 1928) is also close by. The Samadhi (the final resting place) of the Guru here attracts thousands of devotees every year during the Sivagiri Pilgrimage days - 30th December to 1st January. Sree Narayana Guru propagated the ideology: "one caste, one religion, and one God", in a society torn by the taboos of the caste system. Varkala offers excellent accommodation facilities for tourists and is fast becoming a popular health resort with many Ayurvedic massage centres.
The 14 acre bird sanctuary is the favorite spot for migratory birds from all parts of the world. It is situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake. The bird sanctuary houses a wide range of birds including cuckoo, water duck, owl, kingfishers, woodpeckers and egret.
The migratory birds that attract attention include Siberian cranes, teal, wood beetle and many more. It is a birdwatchers’ paradise and you could make best use of your visit to this place by hiring houseboats and motorboats.
Marari is a beach in the Mararikulam village of the Alappuzha district in Kerala. Even though Alleppey is well known for backwaters, this quaint beach near backwaters was voted as one of the world’s top five hammock beaches in a survey by National Geographic, and the best time to visit Marari Beach will be winter with cool temperatures.
Situated in the heart of Kerala, Mararikulam Beach with its untouched beauty entices beach lovers from all over the globe. Marari Beach is among the best tourist destinations in Kerala where you can relax in the most obvious way –by doing nothing. With its vast coastal line fringed with coconut trees, white sand, and clean water this uncrowded beach is the perfect place to bask in the sun in your bikini and get the perfect tan.
Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala. It is India’s longest lake too as the vast expanse of water runs from Kochi in the north to Alleppey in the south. It is otherwise known as Vembanad Kayal. It invites migratory birds from all parts of the world. It is a confluence of three rivers.
To explore Kumarakom, you could hire a houseboat and sail the stretch of water. The small islands around and the serene atmosphere will be heavenly. The lake is rich in marine creatures with over 150 different kinds of fish in the waters.
Anamudi, the 2,695-m high mountain which stands tall in the Eravikulam National Park is the pride of Kerala. It is the highest point in India outside the Himalayan Mountain Ranges. Anamudi, together with the Eravikulam Park, is home to one of the largest surviving populations of Asian elephants, Gaurs and the Nilgiri Tahrs.
The mountain, covered with evergreen forests and inhabited by endemic flora and fauna and a vibrant avian life, is a paradise in the wild. The green forest is also the source of some large and scenic rivers in Kerala and the nearby State of Tamil Nadu.
The Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls are among the best trekking locations in Idukki district. Many people come across these waterfalls on the way to Munnar and it is slowly turning into a tourist hotbed.
There is a dense growth of trees all around and several rare species of plants and animals can be seen in the vicinity. The Cheeyappara Waterfalls gush down in seven tiers and area truly spectacular sight to behold. Valara Waterfalls are known for the lush greenery surrounding it and is a lovely picnic location.
The Idukki Dam, located in Kerala, India, is a 168.91 m (554 ft) tall arch dam. The dam stands between the two mountains – Kuravanmala (839)m and Kurathimala (925)m. It was constructed and is owned by the Kerala State Electricity Board. It supports a 780 MW hydroelectric power station.It is built on the Periyar River, in the ravine between the Kuravan and Kurathi Hills in Kerala, India.
At 167.68 metres, it is one of the highest arch dams in Asia and third tallest arch dam. It started generating power on 4 October 1975.Technically, the dam type is a concrete double curvature parabolic, thin arc dam. This dam was constructed along with two other dams at Cheruthoni and Kulamavu. Together, the three dams have created an artificial lake that is 60 km² in area. The stored water is used to produce electricity at the Moolamattom Power house, which is located inside nearby rocky caves. The Government of Canada aided in the building of the dam with long term loans and grants
Mattupetty is among the most visited destinations in the tourist hotbed of Munnar. It is a beautiful picnic spot that regularly attracts visitors. People love visiting the dam and lake here and families can regularly be seen enjoying a fine afternoon in the area. The view of the valley from here is breathtaking and one gets to simply relax and enjoy the beautiful weather.
The lush green tea plantations and forests in and around Mattupetty are ideal for trekking and host a large number of unique bird species. The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), Idukki provides boating facilities at Mattupetty Dam that is loved by all our visitors. The drive up the location itself is cherished by all who embark upon it, as the mist-covered valleys rising to meet you are a truly awe-inspiring sight.
The resplendent tea plantations in Munnar are like a slice of haven plucked from the skies above. Perched at several feet over the sea level and boasting of misty skies above and green carpeted fields below, these splendid Tea gardens in Munnar are a must-visit for every traveller.
Sprawling over vast acres of lands, the umpteen tea plantations are sure to lure you with their bewitching beauty and charm. If not, they also, always have a steaming cup of tea to offer while you stay and stare at the paradise-like setting in front of you.
Hidden in the amazing green valleys of Munnar, this stunning destination is one of Kerala's most beautiful hill towns, yet to be explored by many tourists. This place is among many attractive destinations in Munnar, which draws a large number of tourists every day, to explore the unseen beauty of the town and to feel its exquisiteness in absolute peace.
Top Station is located around 32 km away from Munnar, on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road, at a height of 1700 meters above sea level. This place falls on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and so it offers a clear view of the panoramic Western Ghats and the valley of the Theni District in Tamil Nadu.
Gavi is an Eco-Tourism a project of the Kerala Forest Development Corporation located in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala. Gavi, located in Pathanamthitta district offers its visitors activities like trekking, wildlife watching, outdoor camping in specially built tents, and night safaris. Distance from Pathanamthitta To Gavi is 109 km 428 mtrs & Travel Time is 2 hour 5 mins By Road. Gavi is 14 km south west of Vandiperiyar, 28 km from Kumily, near Thekkady. Gavi is inside the Ranni reserve forest. Gavi is a part of Seethathode Panchayath in Ranni Taluk. Gavi is part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, and the route can be covered by car from Vandiperiyar. The entrance fee is 25 rupees per person and 50 rupees per vehicle. Cameras are 25 rupees and video cameras are charged 100 rupees. Both day and night stays are available.
Forest tent camping is available from November through March.[citation needed]. It has been said that most enjoyable route to Gavi is the way from Pathanamthitta. The rough journey to Gavi may better be made on a sturdy vehicle like a jeep. Entry passes must be obtained from the Forest Check Post en route at Vallakkadavu. Advance booking with the Kerala Forest Development Corporation Ltd. is highly appreciable wherein such formalities will be taken care of by the company itself.
Spread over 357 square miles, the Periyar National Park is a tourist hotbed with diverse flora and fauna. The park is famous for its elephants and tiger reserve. Tucked away between lush green hills covered by cardamom plantations, the unique location offers picturesque vistas with awe-inspiring environs.
The adventure seekers among you can also indulge in safari, rafting and trekking. Two rivers – Pamba and Periyar run through the park and lend it a tranquil ambience.
Vagamon’s climate is the most pleasing thing to visit Vagamon in Kerala. Every destination of Vagamon is a blissful sight to behold. Vagamon meadows is a fairytale-like destination in Vagamon. It is one of the must-visit places in Vagamon. It’s cool weather, lush green tea plantations, varieties of flowers and picturesque hills of Vagamon will soothe your soul and seduce your senses. It is one of the best picnic spots in Vagamon for family vacation. In Vagamon meadows you will get the blissful views of nature.
Nature which is so lush and green, calm and full of vibrant colors. Every mile of Vagamon meadows reveals bliss. Birds fly high in the sky, trees flutter and dance in the wind and hills will gaze at you blissfully. The aura of Vagamon meadows is divinely fascinating. For solace seekers and nature lovers Vagamon meadows is a tranquil paradise.
At a distance of 1 km from Vagamon Bus Stop, Vagamon Lake is a tranquil water body tucked in the fold of greenery in the quaint hill town of Vagamon. It is one of the beautiful lakes in the Idukki district and among the most prominent places to visit in Vagamon. The Vagamon Lake is a picturesque place amidst three green hills and lush green tea estates in the valley of Vagamon. Boasting picturesque surroundings, it is a famous tourist place that draws a lot of tourists as part of Vagamon holiday packages. Besides, the hills surrounding it boast of glossy green grass carpet which is always blooming with vibrant flowers.
The lake is popular for picnics and leisure outings. It is also an ideal place for photography enthusiasts and solitude seekers as the region around the lake offers peace and calm like no place else. The lake is not a huge one, yet attracts tourists in huge numbers due to its picturesque surroundings, tranquil environment, and activities like boating, sailing. Both Pedal Boats and rowing boats are available at very marginal ticket rates. The view from the boat is mesmerizing, and it is an ideal place to shed some calories and not feel exhausted at all. In addition to that, Vagamon Lake has been used for shooting purposes and if you are lucky, you might also spot your favorite actors here.
If you are an admirer of soothing natural beauty and if you love to have an adventure trip, then Chembra Peak in Wayanad, will be a perfect stop for you. Eight kilometer south of Kalpetta, near to the town of Meppady,
lays the highest peak in Wayanad, the Chembra Peak (2,100 m). Chembra peak adjoins Nilgiri hills in Tamil Nadu and Vallarimala in Kozhikode.
Edakkal is the only known place in India with Stone Age carvings. You can see here carvings belonging to the Neolithic and Mesolithic ages. The human figures of these caves have raised hair and some have masks.
They all have archeological significance and are interesting too. Along with these pictorial carvings, you can also watch Tamil and Brahmi Script in Edakkal caves.
Lakkidi Viewpoint is a high altitude offering a bird's eye view of the city. Located 32 kilometers from Wayanad, at an elevation of 700 mts, the region mostly stays misty and offers a beautiful view of the hairpin turns down the hill.
The thrill of driving up to the point is an experience in itself. One should visit Lakkidi View Point for sunrise and sunset to get the best views. The viewpoint is also a popular picnic spot which is often referred to as the 'Gateway to Wayanad'.
Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, Soochipara Falls is a three-tiered waterfall situated in Vellarimala, Wayanad. Surrounded by deciduous, evergreen and montane forests, this waterfall is regarded as one of the best waterfalls. The drive from Meppadi to Sentinel Rock Waterfalls provides visitors with scenic views of some of the best tea estates in Wayanad.
This enchanting waterfall is 200 meters high that also offer a cliff face, ideal for rock climbing. Also, since the water falling from the waterfall forms a large pool, one can enjoy swimming and bathing in it. The water falling from Soochipara later joins Chulika River aka Chaliyar River after hills from Kerela and Tamil Nadu.