Top sights in Kerala

Top sights in Kerala

 

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is renowned for its lush landscapes, tranquil backwaters, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Here is a comprehensive list of must-visit tourist places in Kerala:

Hill Stations

1. Munnar:

   • Famous for tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool climate.
   • Key attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, Mattupetty Dam, and Tea Museum.

2. Wayanad:

   • Known for its wildlife, waterfalls, and spice plantations.
   • Key attractions: Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

3. Thekkady:

   • Famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice gardens.
   • Key attractions: Periyar Lake, Murikkady, and Kadathanadan Kalari Centre.

4. Vagamon:

   • Known for its lush greenery, meadows, and pine forests.
   • Key attractions: Vagamon Meadows, Pine Hill, and Thangalpara.

Backwaters

5. Alleppey (Alappuzha):

   • Renowned for houseboat cruises and backwater canals.
   • Key attractions: Alleppey Beach, Vembanad Lake, and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

6. Kumarakom:

   • Famous for bird watching and serene backwaters.
   • Key attractions: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, and Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall.

Beaches

7. Kovalam:

   • Popular for its crescent-shaped beaches and lighthouses.
   • Key attractions: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.

8. Varkala:

   • Known for its cliffs, natural springs, and Papanasam Beach.
   • Key attractions: Varkala Beach, Sivagiri Mutt, and Janardanaswamy Temple.

9. Cherai Beach:

   • Famous for its long sandy beach and shallow waters.
   • Located near Kochi, it's ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Cultural and Historical Sites

10. Fort Kochi:

    • Known for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and vibrant culture.
    • Key attractions: St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Mattancherry Palace, and Jew Town.

11. Thrissur:

    • Cultural capital of Kerala, famous for temples and festivals.
    • Key attractions: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur Zoo, and Kerala Kalamandalam.

12. Palakkad:

    • Known for its forts, temples, and wildlife.
    • Key attractions: Palakkad Fort, Silent Valley National Park, and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks

13. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady):

    • Famous for elephants, tigers, and scenic boat rides.
    • Activities: Wildlife safaris, bamboo rafting, and trekking.

14. Silent Valley National Park:

    • Known for its rich biodiversity and pristine rainforest.
    • Key attractions: Kunthi River, unique flora and fauna, and nature trails.

15. Eravikulam National Park:

    • Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the Anamudi Peak.
    • Best time to visit: During the blooming season of Neelakurinji flowers (once every 12 years).

Waterfalls

16. Athirappilly Falls:

    • Known as the "Niagara of India," it's the largest waterfall in Kerala.
    • Located near Thrissur, it's a popular spot for nature lovers and film shootings.

17. Vazhachal Falls:

    • Located close to Athirappilly, it's surrounded by lush greenery.
    • Ideal for picnics and nature walks.

18. Meenmutty Falls:

    • A three-tiered waterfall located in Wayanad.
    • Accessible through a challenging hike, offering breathtaking views.

19. Soochipara Falls:

    • Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, located in Wayanad.
    • A popular spot for trekking, rock climbing, and swimming.

Pilgrimage Sites

20. Sabarimala:

    • One of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage centers, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
    • Located in the Western Ghats, attracting millions of devotees annually.

21. Guruvayur Temple:

    • An important pilgrimage site for Hindus, dedicated to Lord Krishna.
    • Known for its unique rituals and elephant sanctuary.

22. Padmanabhaswamy Temple:

    • Located in Thiruvananthapuram, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
    • Renowned for its rich history, architecture, and treasure troves.

Ayurveda and Wellness

23. Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala:

    • A renowned Ayurvedic treatment center located in Malappuram.
    • Offers traditional treatments and therapies.

24. Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort:

    • Located in Kovalam, offering rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments.
    • Combines wellness with beachside relaxation.

Unique Experiences

25. Bekal Fort:

    • The largest fort in Kerala, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
    • Located in Kasaragod, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.

26. Munroe Island:

    • Situated at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River.
    • Famous for canal cruises, coir retting, and traditional village life.

27. Veli Tourist Village:

    • A picturesque spot near Thiruvananthapuram, known for its backwaters and parks.
    • Offers boating, horse riding, and picnic facilities.

Each of these destinations showcases the diverse beauty and cultural richness of Kerala, making it a perfect place for a memorable vacation.