10 Best Places to Visit in Kerala

Introduction

Kerala, also considered as ‘God’s Own Country,’ is a popular tourist destination for those looking to relax away from the concrete jungle. Lush green tea plantations, serene winding backwaters, and spice plantations are just a few of the features that distinguish Kerala as one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. Kerala has topography ranging from cool hills to balmy sea beaches. Here is a list of must-see attractions for anyone visiting this tropical paradise.

The Following are Top 10 places to visit in Karnataka:

1. Alleppey

Alleppey, known as Alappuzha, is best known for its world-famous Kerala backwaters. The backwaters are also a network of brackish canals, rivers, and lakes that span half of Kerala. Cruise down the backwaters while enjoying the distinct feel of the “Kettuvallams,” or houseboats, which offer amenities such as a taste of traditional Kerala cuisine. Other curious visitors will find several unique temples and churches that add to Alleppey’s picturesque beauty.

• How to Get There: The nearest airport to Alleppey is Cochin International Airport, which is 75 kilometers away. The airport is well-connected to major Indian and international cities.

• Where to stay: For a luxurious experience, rent a houseboat such as The Tharangini House Boat, JCT House Boat, or Cosy Houseboats, which start at 6,500 INR/Per night* and go up from there. If you’d rather stay close to the home, The Ramada Alleppey, Citrus Retreats, and Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Hotel are excellent choices, with rates ranging from 3000-7000 INR per night*.

2. Kochi

Kochi is Kerala’s cultural and economic center. It is a tourist hotspot that draws visitors from all over the world. This city is an amalgamation of various cultures that still strive to survive. In Kochi, you can see everything from Chinese fishing nets to exotic spice cultivations. Every corner of Kochi hides a surprise waiting to be discovered.

• How to Get There: Direct flights to Kochi are available from major cities throughout India and the world. The main city center is about 29 kilometers from the airport.

• Where to stay: The Trident, Le Colonial Neemrana, and Neemrana’s Tower house have rates ranging from 3000 to 10,000 INR per night*.

3. Thekkady

The famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Thekkady. Periyar is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking to rejuvenate in the misty mountains of the Nilgiris. You can observe the elephants that roam the sanctuary, explore the lush green forests, take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, or go on an elephant safari into the wilderness.

• How to Get There: Thekkady/Periyar is about 165 kilometers from Kochi (Cochin). Periyar Tiger Reserve is easily accessible from Kochi via roads and railways. The best way to get to Thekkady/Periyar from Kochi is by car, which takes about 4 hours.

• Where to stay: Aranya Nivas, Springdale Heritage Resort, or Michael’s Inn, all of which are available for 1500-3500 INR/Per night* and ensure a comfortable stay.

4. Munnar

Munnar is regarded as one of Kerala’s most beautiful tourist destinations. Munnar, located on the Western Ghats, is one of the highest tea producers on the Indian subcontinent. In Munnar, the view of undulating hills touching the clouds refreshes your mind and soul. The Arabian Sea surrounds Munnar on one side and the Western Ghats on the other, making it a unique escape from city life. Munnar has it all: palm-fringed backwaters, scenic waterfalls, sunny beaches, misty mountains, and gushing streams.

• How to get there: The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is 110 kilometers away by road. You can take a cab from Cochin to Munnar. The finest way to get to Munnar by road is to take a state-run or private bus from various towns in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

• Where to stay: Misty mountain resorts, Munnar Terrace Greens, and Fort Munnar provide rooms at 3000-5000 INR/Per night*.

5. Thrissur

Thrissur was previously the capital of the Kingdom of Kochin, but it is now regarded as Kerala’s cultural capital due to its spiritual, cultural, and religious inclinations throughout history. During the festive season, various beautiful temples and churches become a hub of activity in the city. When visiting Thrissur, you must try the delectable Vellayappam, a type of rice hopper that is a local specialty.

• How to get there: Thrissur needs an airport. There is no airport in Thrissur. Kochi Airport, located 95 kilometers from Thrissur, is the nearest airport. Trains to Thrissur are easily accessible from other major cities in the country. There are also tourist buses to Thrissur from major cities throughout the country. Trains to Thrissur are easily accessible from other major cities in the country. There are also tourist buses to Thrissur from major cities throughout the country.

• Where to stay: As a major city in Kerala, Thrissur has many options for lodging, including Dass Continental, Lulu International Convention, and Hotel Peninsula, which charge between 1500 and 3000 INR per night.

6. Kovalam

Sink your toes into Kovalam’s warm sandy beaches. There are coconut trees as far as the eye can see here, and when you combine that with prime resorts surrounded by lush green vegetation, you’ve got yourself a popular tourist destination. In recent years, Kovalam has grown in popularity as an Ayurvedic healing center. So, if you need to recharge your power units, Kovalam is the place to go.

• How to get there: The closest airport and railhead is Trivandrum which is 20 km from Kovalam. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are excellent modes of transportation in Kerala.

• Where to stay: Beach Hotel De Tour Neelakantha, Hotel Samudra KTDC, and Vivanta by Taj Green Cove, all of which have rooms ranging from 1500 to 7000 INR per night*.

7. Wayanad

Wayanad, one of the best hill stations in the south, produces tea, coffee, cardamom, pepper, and other spices. The region is rich in natural wonders such as waterfalls, caves, lakes, and dams, and you will surely enjoy Wayanad’s cool weather. Visit Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary to see wildlife such as Spotted Deer, Bison, Cheetah, and Bears.

• How to get there: The closest airport is the Calicut International airport, which is 87 km away from Wayanad. Buses to Wayanad are easily accessible from all major cities in the country. The nearest railhead to Wayanad is Nilambur Road, 53 kilometers away.

• Where to stay: Vyithiri Village, Upavan Resort, The Woods Wayanad, and Wayanad Silver Woods Resort are hotels that provide a comfortable stay for 2500-6500 INR/Per night*.

8. Thiruvananthapuram

This city, also known as Trivandrum, is the state’s capital and, presumably, the most culturally affluent region. Trivandrum has seen several rulers, each of whom has left their mark on the city. Rapid development has kept the city’s unique heritage intact in the form of architecture and culture, which it still embodies. The Kowdiar Palace, formerly the official residence of the Travancore royal family, is a must-see in the city.

• How to get there: Trivandrum is easily accessible by air, trains, and national highways.

• Where to stay: Fortune Hotel The South Park, Classic Sarovar Portico, Hotel Galaxy Inn, and Vivanta by Taj have nightly rates ranging from 500 to 6000 INR*. These hotels provide access to all facilities as well as excellent service.

9. Kozhikode

Kozhikode, like Trivandrum, has been home to numerous dynasties, each of which has left its mark on the city. That may be why Kozhikode is dubbed the ‘City of Sculptures.’ Kozhikode is also known as the “City of Spices” because it is an important trading port for eastern spices. Vadakkan Pattukal is a folk song or ballad popular in the district. The sweet-meat street is a popular tourist destination and a marketing hub for many regionally produced products.

• How to Get There: Kozhikode is served by all major international airports. Kozhikode’s railway station is well-connected to other cities in India.

• Where to stay: Renai Kappad Beach Resort, The Taviz Resort and Spa, and Park Residency at Ramanattukara all cost between 1400 and 4000 INR per night*.

10. Kannur

Kannur was once a major British trading center in the south, so much of the city still has a Colonial feel to it that is mixed in with the local flavor of Kannur. Explore St. Angelo Fort, take a walk along Payyamabalam Beach, see wildlife at Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, or take a ferry ride across the Laccadive Sea. Kannur is a place for everyone.

• How to get there: Kannur international airport is still under construction; instead, you could take a train. Trains run from all major cities in the country to Kannur, and there are six daily trains connecting Kannur to the capital, Trivandrum.

• Where to stay: Hotel Sky Pearl, Kaula Inn, Aroma Ayur Heritage Resort, and Hotel The Sky Park Mattanur offer rooms ranging from 1400 to 3000 INR per night*.