As a travel enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the beauty of India. Being a diverse country, it has so much to offer in terms of culture, traditions, and natural beauty. One such place that has always caught my attention is Kerala- a state situated in the southern part of India. Kerala is known for its serene beauty, diverse landscape, unique culture, and adventure activities. In this article, I will share my experience of exploring Kerala and why it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Introduction to Kerala, India
Kerala is a state situated in the southwestern part of India, also known as God’s Own Country. It is known for its palm-lined beaches, backwaters, network of canals, and lagoons. Kerala’s natural beauty, diverse landscape, unique culture, and adventure activities make it one of the most sought-after destinations in India. The state is also known for its Ayurvedic spa treatments, which attracts tourists from all over the world.
Kerala’s Natural Beauty and Diverse Landscape
Kerala is endowed with natural beauty and diverse landscape. The state is blessed with a long coastline, palm-lined beaches, serene backwaters, and lush green hills. The Western Ghats mountain range runs through the state, which is home to several national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and forest reserves. The state is also blessed with several rivers, waterfalls, and lakes. Kerala’s natural beauty and diverse landscape make it a paradise for nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the state is lush green. The monsoon season in Kerala is from June to August, which is also a good time to visit if you enjoy rainfall and greenery. The weather during this time is pleasant, and there is little to no rain, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The monsoon season starts in June and lasts until August, making it difficult to explore the state due to heavy rains and floods.
How to Go Kerala
Kerala is well-connected by air, road, and rail. You can choose to travel by air to Cochin International Airport, the largest airport in Kerala, or by rail to one of the many railway stations in the state. The state is also well-connected by a network of national highways and state highways, making it easy to travel by road.
By Air
Cochin International Airport is the largest airport in Kerala and is well-connected to major cities across the world. You can also choose to fly to other airports in Kerala, such as Trivandrum International Airport and Calicut International Airport. There are several airlines that operate flights from Delhi to Kerala. Some of the popular ones are Air India, Indigo, SpiceJet, Vistara, and GoAir. The flight duration is approximately 3-4 hours depending on the destination city in Kerala. There are three major airports in Kerala – Cochin International Airport in Kochi, Trivandrum International Airport in Thiruvananthapuram, and Calicut International Airport in Kozhikode. Depending on your destination, you can book your flight to the nearest airport. The cost of air travel varies depending on the airline, season, and how early you book. The average price of a one-way ticket from Delhi to Kerala can range from INR 3000-6000.
By Train
Kerala has a well-developed railway network, and you can easily travel to the state by train. Some of the major railway stations in Kerala include Thiruvananthapuram Central, Ernakulam Junction, and Kozhikode Railway Station. There are several trains that run from Delhi to major cities in Kerala, such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode. Some of the popular trains are Kerala Express, Mangala Lakshadweep Express, and Thiruvananthapuram Rajdhani Express.
You can book your train tickets online through the Indian Railways official website or third-party booking portals such as MakeMyTrip, ClearTrip, or Yatra. It is advisable to book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, to get confirmed reservations. The cost of train travel varies depending on the class of travel and the type of train you choose. The average price of a one-way ticket from Delhi to Kerala can range from INR 600-3000, depending on the class and type of train.
By Bus
Kerala has an extensive network of buses that connect all major cities and towns in the state. You can choose from regular, deluxe, and luxury buses depending on your budget and comfort requirements.
Delhi to Kerala Bus Route: There are no direct buses from Delhi to Kerala. You will have to take a bus from Delhi to Bangalore, which is approximately 2,100 km away. From Bangalore, you can take a bus to Kerala. The total distance between Delhi and Kerala is around 2,800 km, and it can take approximately 2-3 days to complete the journey, depending on the route and the mode of transportation. The cost of the journey varies depending on the type of bus you choose and the season. It can range from INR 2000-5000 per person.
Popular Tourist Places in Kerala to Visit
Kerala is home to several tourist places that attract tourists from all over the world. Some of the popular tourist places in Kerala are Munnar, Alleppey, Wayanad, Thekkady, Kovalam, and Varkala. Munnar is a hill station known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic beauty. Alleppey is known for its backwaters, houseboats, and boat races. Wayanad is known for its scenic beauty, wildlife, and adventure activities.
Alleppey
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is known for its serene backwaters and beautiful beaches. You can enjoy a houseboat ride through the backwaters, explore the beaches, and indulge in some of the best seafood in the state. It is known for its backwaters, beaches, and canals that attract a large number of tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Alleppey:
- Backwater Cruises: The backwaters of Alleppey are the most famous tourist attraction. You can take a houseboat or shikara ride and enjoy the serene beauty of the backwaters while passing through the lush green landscape.
- Beaches: Alleppey has some beautiful beaches such as Marari Beach and Alappuzha Beach. These beaches are a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or sunbathing.
- Canals: Alleppey is known for its intricate network of canals that are used for transportation and fishing. You can take a canoe ride through the canals to explore the rural life and natural beauty of the place.
- Coir Industry: Alleppey is also known for its coir industry. You can visit coir factories to see how coir products such as ropes, mats, and carpets are made.
- Ayurvedic Spa: Alleppey offers several Ayurvedic spa centers that provide rejuvenating massages and other therapies that use natural ingredients and techniques.
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers. It is home to several rare and exotic species of birds, including egrets, darters, herons, and kingfishers.
- Snake Boat Races: The famous Snake Boat Races of Alleppey are a major attraction for tourists. The races are held during the Onam festival in August/September and are a sight to behold
Munnar
Munnar is a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. It is known for its tea estates, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate, and attracts tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Munnar:
- Tea Plantations: Munnar is famous for its tea plantations, which produce some of the finest tea in the world. You can take a tour of the tea factories and learn about the tea-making process.
- Eravikulam National Park: The Eravikulam National Park is home to several rare and endangered species of animals and birds, including the Nilgiri Tahr. You can take a guided tour of the park and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- Mattupetty Dam: The Mattupetty Dam is a popular tourist spot in Munnar. You can take a boat ride on the dam and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place.
- Top Station: Top Station is the highest point in Munnar, located at an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Anamudi Peak: The Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in South India, located near Munnar. It is a popular trekking spot and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Kundala Lake: Kundala Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by lush green hills. You can enjoy a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the serene beauty of the place.
- Adventure Sports: Munnar offers several adventure sports such as trekking, rock climbing, paragliding, and rappelling. You can indulge in these activities and enjoy the thrill of adventure
Kochi
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a bustling port city located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful backwaters. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Kochi:
- Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is a historic neighborhood that reflects the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influence on the city. It is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, narrow streets, and spice markets.
- Chinese Fishing Nets: The Chinese Fishing Nets are a popular tourist attraction in Kochi. These fishing nets are operated by a system of weights and levers and are a sight to behold during sunset.
- Mattancherry Palace: The Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a beautiful palace that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It is known for its stunning mural paintings and architecture.
- St. Francis Church: St. Francis Church is the oldest European church in India and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
- Kerala Folklore Museum: The Kerala Folklore Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, costumes, and art pieces.
- Backwater Cruises: Kochi is located on the banks of the backwaters and offers several backwater cruises. You can take a houseboat or shikara ride and enjoy the serene beauty of the backwaters.
- Kathakali Dance Performance: Kochi is famous for its Kathakali dance performances, which showcase the traditional dance form of Kerala. You can watch a Kathakali performance and experience the rich culture of the state.
Wayanad
Wayanad is a beautiful district located in the northeastern part of Kerala and is known for its pristine forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. You can explore the Edakkal Caves, hike to Chembra Peak, and visit Kuruva Island, natural beauty, wildlife, and coffee and spice plantations. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Wayanad:
- Chembra Peak: Chembra Peak is the highest peak in Wayanad and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a popular trekking spot and is known for its heart-shaped lake.
- Banasura Sagar Dam: The Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earth dam in India and is a popular tourist spot in Wayanad. You can enjoy a boat ride on the dam and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place.
- Edakkal Caves: The Edakkal Caves are ancient caves that are believed to date back to the Neolithic era. They are known for their rock paintings and carvings and are a popular tourist attraction.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered species of animals and birds, including the Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, and Indian bison. You can take a safari tour of the sanctuary and enjoy the wildlife.
- Pookode Lake: Pookode Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by lush green hills. You can enjoy a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the serene beauty of the place.
- Soochipara Waterfalls: Soochipara Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall that cascades down from a height of 200 meters. It is a popular picnic spot and is known for its natural beauty.
- Coffee and Spice Plantations: Wayanad is known for its coffee and spice plantations. You can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the cultivation process.
Thekkady
Thekkady is a beautiful town in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, wildlife sanctuaries, and spice plantations. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Thekkady:
- Periyar National Park: The Periyar National Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thekkady. It is home to several rare and endangered species of animals and birds, including elephants, tigers, and the Nilgiri langur. You can enjoy a guided jungle safari, nature walk or boat ride to explore the park.
- Spice Plantations: Thekkady is known for its spice plantations, where you can see and learn about different types of spices such as cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. You can also take a guided tour of the plantations and even buy some fresh spices.
- Elephant Rides: Thekkady offers elephant rides through the forest and spice plantations. You can also interact with elephants and watch them bathe in the river.
- Trekking: The town offers various trekking options that allow you to explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys. Some popular treks include the Green walk, Cloud walk, and Jungle walk.
- Boat Ride: A boat ride on the Periyar Lake is a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the place. You can also spot various animals and birds that come to the lake to drink water.
- Martial Arts: You can also watch traditional martial arts like Kalaripayattu, which is an ancient Indian martial art form that originated in Kerala.
- Ayurvedic Spa: Thekkady offers several Ayurvedic spa centers that provide rejuvenating massages and other therapies that use natural ingredients and techniques.
Kerala’s Unique Culture and Traditions
Kerala has a unique culture and traditions that make it stand apart from other states in India. The state is known for its classical dance forms- Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. Kerala is also known for its traditional art forms like Theyyam, Kalaripayattu, and Chakyar Koothu. The state is also known for its festivals like Onam, Vishu, and Thrissur Pooram. Kerala’s unique culture and traditions are something that every traveler should experience.
Kerala’s Delicious Cuisine and Local Delicacies
Kerala is known for its delicious cuisine and local delicacies. The state is known for its seafood, coconut-based curries, and vegetarian dishes. Some of the popular dishes in Kerala are Appam and Stew, Fish Curry, Puttu, and Kadala Curry. Kerala’s cuisine is a blend of flavors, spices, and cooking techniques that are unique to the state.
Appam and Stew:
Appam is a pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk and is served with a flavorful vegetable stew.
Puttu and Kadala Curry
Puttu is a steamed rice cake served with a spicy chickpea curry.
Meen Curry
Meen Curry is a spicy fish curry made with coconut milk and a variety of spices.
Accommodation Options in Kerala
Kerala offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers- hotels, homestays, and resorts. The state has several luxury hotels and resorts that offer world-class amenities and services. Homestays are also popular in Kerala, which offers travelers a chance to experience the local culture and hospitality. Homestays are usually run by families who offer comfortable accommodation and home-cooked meals.
Adventure Activities in Kerala
Kerala is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. The state offers several adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, rafting, and rock climbing. Trekking in the Western Ghats is a popular activity among travelers. Paragliding and rock climbing are popular in Vagamon and Wayanad. Rafting is popular in the Periyar River in Thekkady.
Kerala’s Wildlife and National Parks
Kerala is home to several national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and forest reserves. The state is known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife. Some of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala are Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Silent Valley National Park. These parks are home to several endangered species like elephants, tigers, and lion-tailed macaques.
Planning Your Kerala Itinerary
Planning a trip to Kerala can be overwhelming due to the numerous options available. It is best to plan your itinerary based on your interests and preferences. If you are interested in nature and wildlife, you can plan your itinerary around national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. If you are interested in beaches and water sports, you can plan your itinerary around popular beach destinations like Kovalam and Varkala.
Kerala Tourism and Travel Resources
Kerala Tourism is the official tourism website of the state, which provides information on tourist places, accommodation, and travel resources. There are several travel agencies and tour operators that offer customized tour packages to Kerala. It is best to research and compare different packages before booking one.
Conclusion – Why Kerala is a Must-Visit Destination for Nature Lovers and Adventure Enthusiasts
Kerala is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The state’s natural beauty, diverse landscape, unique culture, and adventure activities make it a paradise for travelers. Whether you are interested in trekking in the Western Ghats or relaxing on a houseboat in Alleppey, Kerala has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Kerala for an unforgettable experience.
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