Alappuzha
PC: Abhishek Prasad
Munnar Tea Garden
PC: Bhupesh Talwar
Varkala
PC: Firoz Ghori
Vagamon
PC: Avin
Alappuzha
PC: Abhishek Prasad
Munnar Tea Garden
PC: Bhupesh Talwar
Varkala
PC: Firoz Ghori
Vagamon
PC: Avin
Kerala is renowned as "God's Own Country," a title it truly deserves. The state is characterized by coconut trees swaying in the breeze,
lush green meadows, serene backwaters, diverse wildlife, cascading waterfalls, the ancient martial art of Kalari Pattu, majestic herds of elephants, exhilarating boat races,
picturesque beaches, vibrant Onam festivities, and iconic houseboats floating on tranquil waters—all representing the essence of Kerala. However, the most captivating experience
lies in immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of South Indian culture.
Some of Kerala's top tourist destinations include the enchanting hill station of Munnar, the awe-inspiring Periyar Tiger Reserve, the picturesque Kovalam Beach,
the historic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and the verdant landscapes of Wayanad. Additionally, Kerala is dotted with numerous milky waterfalls that captivate with their
natural beauty. Many of Kerala's destinations retain their traditional charm, untouched by modernization, which adds to the blissful experience of exploring this enchanting
state.
Munnar is situated in the Western Ghats mountain range in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is Known for its sprawling tea plantations,
mist-covered hills, and cool climate, Munnar is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The Eravikulam National Park, home
to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, is a major attraction here. Visitors can also explore waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam, visit tea museums,
and indulge in activities like trekking and boating.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Munnar is from September to March when the weather is pleasant, and the tea gardens are
lush green.
Wayanad is located in the northeastern part of Kerala, bordering Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Wayanad is known for its lush green forests,
picturesque landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and spice plantations. Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Pookode Lake are
popular attractions. Trekking, wildlife safaris, and exploring tribal culture are popular activities here.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
Vagamon is located in the Idukki district of Kerala. Vagamon is a serene hill station known for its lush meadows, pine forests, and
rolling hills. It offers opportunities for trekking, paragliding, and enjoying the scenic beauty of places like Vagamon Pine Forest,
Kurisumala Ashram, and Vagamon Lake.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Vagamon is from September to March when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor
activities.
Ponmudi is situated near the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. It is characterized by its misty hills, winding roads,
tea gardens, and diverse flora and fauna. It is a popular destination for trekking, birdwatching, and enjoying panoramic views from
viewpoints like Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary and Golden Valley.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ponmudi is from November to March for pleasant weather and clear views.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala.The temple's origins date back to ancient times,
with significant renovations and additions made during the 16th century.
One of the most prominent features of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is the idol of Lord Padmanabha (Vishnu) in a reclining posture on the
serpent Ananta Shesha. The temple's architecture showcases Dravidian and Kerala styles, with intricate carvings, gopurams (tower gateways),
and a massive tank known as Padma Theertham. It is also known for its strict dress code and rituals.
The temple is not just a religious center but also a significant cultural and historical landmark of Kerala.
Sabarimala Temple is located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, amidst the Western Ghats. The exact period of construction
is not clearly documented, but the temple's significance dates back centuries.
Sabarimala Temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is famous for its pilgrimage season (Mandalam-Makaravilakku season) from November to
January, attracting millions of devotees. The temple is situated atop a hill surrounded by dense forests, and devotees undertake a rigorous
41-day vratham (fasting and spiritual observances) before visiting the temple. The Makaravilakku festival, celebrated during January, is a
major event at Sabarimala.
Sabarimala Temple holds great religious significance for devotees of Lord Ayyappa and is known for its unique rituals and traditions.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Thekkady, in the Idukki district of Kerala.The sanctuary is nestled in the Western Ghats
and is known for its scenic beauty, dense forests, and picturesque Periyar Lake. It offers a tranquil and natural ambiance.
Flora and Fauna: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora including evergreen forests, grasslands,
and marshy areas. The sanctuary is renowned for its wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, sambar deer, Indian bison (gaur),
and a variety of bird species.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is from September to March, during the cooler and drier
months when wildlife sightings are more frequent.
Eravikulam National Park is located near Munnar in the Idukki district of Kerala.The park is known for its scenic beauty, rolling hills,
grasslands, and the famous Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain goat species.
Flora and Fauna: Eravikulam National Park is home to the Nilgiri Tahr along with other wildlife such as Nilgiri langurs,
Indian bison (gaur), leopards, and a variety of birds and butterflies. The park also features unique flora including the Neelakurinji flowers
that bloom once in twelve years.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Eravikulam National Park is from September to March when the weather is cool and conducive
for wildlife sightings.
Kovalam Beach is located in Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala, about 16 kilometers from the city center. Kovalam is renowned for
its crescent-shaped sandy beaches and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
The beach is divided into three parts: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach. Lighthouse Beach is the most popular,
offering activities like sunbathing, swimming, and beachside dining.
Things to Do: Apart from sunbathing and swimming, visitors can enjoy water sports such as surfing, parasailing, and jet skiing.
There are also beachside shacks and restaurants serving traditional Kerala cuisine.
Varkala Beach is located in the Varkala town of Thiruvananthapuram district. Varkala is known for its stunning cliffs overlooking
the Arabian Sea, creating a picturesque setting. The beach is also famous for its mineral springs and natural healing properties.
The nearby Janardanaswamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt are popular tourist attractions.
Things to Do: Visitors can relax on the beach, take Ayurvedic treatments at the nearby wellness centers, explore the
cliffside shops and restaurants, and witness mesmerizing sunsets from the cliff top.