10 Tourist Attractions in Kerala that You Must Visit
India’s southern province, Kerala is among the world’s topmost tourist destinations. Thanks to its location in the Western Ghats, backwaters, and natural heritage, it is known as God’s Own Country. From virgin beaches to opulent jungles and from amazing cultural beauty to picturesque waterfalls, Kerala boasts of everything to fascinate visitors of all types.
Let’s have a look at some of the popular tourist attractions of Kerala that you must visit.
Munnar
The queen of the Western Ghats, Munnar is a hill station that is known for its tea plantations. Spending a few days in the midst of the verdant tea gardens of Munnar mesmerizes your heart and soul. The city is a major tourist spot and holiday destination. People from all over India come here to witness the breathtaking natural beauty at its best. Do not miss Attukad Waterfalls and Kundala Lake while you explore the town of Munnar.
Alleppey
Undoubtedly one of the favorites among globetrotters, Alleppey is famous for its picturesque backwaters and Vembanad Lake. The oldest planned city of Kerala holds an astonishing image in the eyes of nature lovers. Travel through the incredible natural delight with a houseboat cruise in the backwaters. One of the most popular temples of Kerala, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is also located in the Venice of the east.
Kollam
On the extremity of Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam offers tremendous beauty and fascination. The South Kerala town is an astonishing incarnation of Mother Nature with multiple lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, and, beaches. Soak the Sun’s warmth on the Kollam beach after getting plunged into the Palaruvi Falls. Munroe Island’s rich vegetation welcomes you to the land of enormous experiences.
Thrissur
Get engrossed by the unique and amazing culture of Thrissur. Located approx. 270 km to the North of the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur is also known for various historical monuments such as Sakthan Thampuran Palace, Our Lady of Dolours Basilica, Thrissur Town Hall, etc. Thrissur Pooram, an annual Hindu festival at the Vadakkunnathan Temple and Pulikali, a Malayali folk art are two of the must-not-miss type of celebrations in Kerala’s cultural capital.
Thekkady
Thekkady is a small town near the Tamil Nadu border. It is home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and is a popular holiday hub. Become a witness to multiple species of wildlife such as the Indian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Nilgiri Langur, etc. The deciduous forest’s splendid beauty is multiplied by the magnificent lake on Periyar River. You can also enjoy boating in Thekkady Lake and experience the opulence of nature in Kerala.
Kochi
Let your soul bathe in the intriguing beauty of the Queen of the Arabian Sea- Kochi. The picturesque esplanade of Marine Drive, Fort Kochi, glorious beaches, etc. makes Kochi the first-ranked city by the total number of tourist’s arrival in Kerala. The city is known for its diversity with a large number of North Indians living in Kochi.
Bekal
Witness the historic Bekal Fort and appreciate its key-shaped architectural design when you visit in the coastal town of Bekal in North Kerala. You will also get to see the golden beauty of the beach surrounding the fort. Ornate backwaters and majestic hilly vegetation beautify the city. From the top of Bekal fort, you can have a glimpse of the breathtaking Arabian Sea’s endless water.
Thiruvananthapuram
The capital of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram is known for its low coastal hills that spellbind the soul of every visitor. The city is also important as the seat of Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kerala’s most popular temple. Mahatma Gandhi named it the Evergreen city of India, thanks to the lush vegetation of the Western Ghats, Vellayani Lake, and beautiful beaches. Veli lake and tourist village, Edayar Island, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, etc. are some of the popular places to visit in the city.
Wayanad
Set in the Western Ghats at a height of more than 1500 m, Wayanad is a beautiful place to relax in. Explore the thrill of Edakkal Caves, take a plunge in Soochipara Waterfalls, and spellbind your heart and soul by the dense vegetation of Kuruvadweep Island here in Wayanad. Do not miss the splendid gratification of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Varkala
Varkala is a major tourist spot and Yoga hub in Kerala. The small town is located approx 40 km north of Thiruvananthapuram. Popular for its outstanding beaches and cliffs, Varkala is a center of Ayurvedic treatment in South India. Thanks to the 2018 years old Janardana Swami Temple and many more shrines, the coastal town is often credited as the Kashi of South India. Paravur Kayal, Anjengo Fort, Kappil Lake, etc. are some of the other places to visit in Varkala.
Author Bio:
Manmohan Singh is a passionate Yogi, Yoga Teacher and a Traveller in India. He organizes 200 hour yoga teacher training in Kerala. Manmohan Singh conducts Yoga Teacher Training in India in different cities. He loves writing and reading books related to yoga, health, nature, Himalayas. and Trekking in India.