Kerala

Title: Exploring Enchanting Kerala: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Welcome to the land of serene backwaters, lush green hill stations, and vibrant festivals – Kerala! Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your trip.

Where to Visit in Kerala

  1. Alappuzha (Alleppey): Known for its enchanting backwaters, houseboat stays, and scenic beauty. Don’t miss the Alappuzha Beach and the Vembanad Lake.

  2. Kochi (Cochin): With a rich history, Kochi offers Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, Jewish synagogue, and the bustling spice markets of Mattancherry.

  3. Munnar: Nestled among the Western Ghats, Munnar is a haven for tea lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Visit Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.

  4. Thekkady: Home to the Periyar National Park, Thekkady offers wildlife sightseeing and spice plantation tours.

  5. Wayanad: This hill station is known for its rich biodiversity, Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, and Banasura Sagar Dam.

  6. Kumarakom: A peaceful village on the Vembanad Lake, famous for bird watching and traditional Kuttanadan food.

Where to Eat in Kerala

  1. Sadya: A traditional vegetarian feast, typically served on a banana leaf. Don’t miss out on the coconut-based curries and payasam (dessert).

  2. Appam with Stew: A popular breakfast dish made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, served with spicy vegetable or meat stew.

  3. Ittukkappam: A delicacy from Kochi, it’s a fried snack made from rice flour and grated coconut.

  4. Kerala Porotta: Thin layered flatbread served with mutton or chicken curry.

Where to Stay in Kerala

  1. Luxury Resorts: For a comfortable stay, opt for luxury resorts like The Leela Kovalam, Coconut Lagoon, or Tea County Resort & Spa Munnar.

  2. Homestays: Experience local life by staying at homestays in villages like Kumarakom, Varkala, or Wayanad.

  3. Houseboats: For a unique experience, stay in houseboats while cruising through the backwaters of Alappuzha.

Activities and Tips

  1. Ayurveda Massages: Rejuvenate your body with traditional Ayurvedic massages at any of the numerous spas in Kerala.

  2. Backwater Cruises: Explore the scenic backwaters on a houseboat or motorboat ride.

  3. Wildlife Spotting: Visit national parks and sanctuaries for elephant, tiger, and bird sightings.

  4. Festival Celebrations: Time your visit to coincide with local festivals like Onam (August-September), Vishu (April), or Thrissur Pooram (April/May).

  5. Spice Market Shopping: Indulge in the aromatic spices, handloom textiles, and traditional artifacts from Kerala’s vibrant markets.

  6. Kathakali Performances: Witness this traditional dance form at cultural centers in Kochi or Thrissur.

  7. Food Tours: Join food tours to sample local cuisine and understand the cooking techniques behind it.

  8. Lake, River, and Beach Cleanups: Contribute towards preserving Kerala’s natural beauty by participating in cleanup drives organized by local NGOs.

Getting Around

Kerala has a well-connected road network, making self-drive or hired cars the easiest option. Trains are also affordable and scenic, while flights can be taken to reach major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Calicut.