Kerala, often dubbed “God’s Own Country,” is a tapestry woven with vibrant hues of emerald green, sapphire blue, and golden sand. This southern state offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and heartwarming hospitality, making it an irresistible destination for travelers worldwide. Let’s delve into 10 of Kerala’s most enchanting locations:
1. Munnar – The Verdant Valley
Where: Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Munnar is a picturesque hill station renowned for its sprawling tea plantations, rolling hills, and misty valleys. The air is crisp and cool, making it a perfect escape from the summer heat.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located approximately 110 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Aluva, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Aluva, you can take a taxi or bus to Munnar.
- By Road: Munnar is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. State-run and private buses are available from various locations.
Food Options:
Munnar offers a delightful blend of local and international cuisines. Indulge in:
- Appam and Idiyappam: Traditional Kerala breakfast dishes made from rice flour.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cake served with a lentil curry.
- Kerala Parotta: A flaky flatbread often served with beef or chicken curry.
- Munnar Tea: Don’t miss the chance to savor the world-famous Munnar tea at local cafes.
Hotel Options:
- The Tea County: Luxurious resort with stunning views of tea plantations. (Rating: 4.5/5)
- Blanket Hotel & Spa: Boutique hotel with a focus on wellness and relaxation. (Rating: 4.2/5)
- Mountain Club: Budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. (Rating: 3.8/5)
2. Alleppey: The Venice of the East
Where: Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a charming town famous for its extensive network of canals, lagoons, and lakes. A houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters is a must-do experience, offering breathtaking views of the countryside and local life.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, located about 75 km away.
- By Train: Alleppey has its own railway station, well-connected to major cities in India.
- By Road: Regular buses connect Alleppey to major cities in Kerala.
Food Options:
Alleppey offers a variety of seafood delicacies, including:
- Karimeen Pollichathu: A popular dish of pearl spot fish cooked in banana leaves.
- Appam with Ishtu: A delicious combination of rice pancakes and a vegetable stew.
- Meen Pollichathu: Fish cooked in banana leaves with spices.
- Seafood Curry: A spicy and flavorful curry made with a variety of seafood.
Hotel Options:
- Lake Palace Resort: Luxurious resort with stunning views of the backwaters. (Rating: 4.8/5)
- Alappuzha Beach Resort: Family-friendly resort with a private beach. (Rating: 4.4/5)
- Coconut Lagoon: Eco-friendly resort with traditional Kerala architecture. (Rating: 4.6/5)
3. Thekkady: Where Nature Reigns Supreme
Where: Home to the Periyar National Park, Thekkady is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Embark on a boat safari on the Periyar Lake to spot elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species. Thekkady also offers spice plantations and cultural performances.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, located about 165 km away.
- By Train: Kottayam railway station is the nearest, located about 114 km away.
- By Road: Regular buses connect Thekkady to major cities in Kerala.
Food Options:
Thekkady offers a variety of South Indian dishes, including:
- Appam and Stew: A classic Kerala breakfast dish.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cake served with a lentil curry.
- Kerala Parotta: A flaky flatbread often served with beef or chicken curry.
- Idiyappam: Steamed rice noodles served with curry.
Hotel Options:
- The Cardamom County: Luxurious resort with stunning views of the Periyar Lake. (Rating: 4.7/5)
- Spice Village: Eco-friendly resort with traditional Kerala architecture. (Rating: 4.5/5)
- Jungle Nest: Budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. (Rating: 3.9/5)
4. Kochi: A Blend of History and Modernity
Where: Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant port city with a rich history. Explore Fort Kochi, a historic area with Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences. Visit the Chinese fishing nets, the Mattancherry Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) serves Kochi directly.
- By Train: Ernakulam Junction railway station is the main railway station in Kochi.
- By Road: Kochi is well-connected to major cities in Kerala by road.
Food Options:
Kochi offers a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional Kerala dishes to international cuisines.
- Karimeen Pollichathu: A popular dish of pearl spot fish cooked in banana leaves.
- Appam and Idiyappam: Traditional Kerala breakfast dishes.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cake served with a lentil curry.
- Seafood Curry: A spicy and flavorful curry made with a variety of seafood.
Hotel Options:
- The Brunton Boatyard: Luxury hotel with a colonial-era charm. (Rating: 4.9/5)
- The Malabar House: Boutique hotel with a focus on art and culture. (Rating: 4.7/5)
- Sea Shore Hotel: Budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a central location. (Rating: 4.1/5)
5. Kovalam: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
Where: Kovalam is a coastal town famous for its crescent-shaped beaches, shallow waters, and the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse. Relax on the beach, indulge in Ayurvedic massages, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is the nearest airport, located about 14 km away.
- By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station is the nearest railway station, located about 13 km away.
- By Road: Kovalam is well-connected to major cities in Kerala by road.
Food Options:
Kovalam offers a variety of seafood options, including:
- Karimeen Pollichathu: A popular dish of pearl spot fish cooked in banana leaves.
- Appam and Idiyappam: Traditional Kerala breakfast dishes.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cake served with a lentil curry.
- Seafood Curry: A spicy and flavorful curry made with a variety of seafood.
Hotel Options:
- The Leela Kovalam: Luxury beach resort with stunning ocean views. (Rating: 4.8/5)
- Hyatt Regency Kovalam: Upscale resort with a focus on relaxation and rejuvenation. (Rating: 4.6/5)
- Beachside Cottages: Budget-friendly option with comfortable cottages close to the beach. (Rating: 4.2/5)
6. Varkala: Cliffs, Beaches, and Ayurveda
Where: Varkala is a coastal town known for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, Papanasam Beach, and Ayurvedic resorts. Relax on the beach, go for a swim, and rejuvenate with Ayurvedic treatments.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is the nearest airport, located about 50 km away.
- By Train: Varkala has its own railway station, well-connected to major cities in India.
- By Road: Varkala is well-connected to major cities in Kerala by road.
Food Options:
Varkala offers a variety of seafood options, including:
- Karimeen Pollichathu: A popular dish of pearl spot fish cooked in banana leaves.
- Appam and Idiyappam: Traditional Kerala breakfast dishes.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cake served with a lentil curry.
- Seafood Curry: A spicy and flavorful curry made with a variety of seafood.
Hotel Options:
- The Cliff Resort & Spa: Luxury resort with stunning clifftop views. (Rating: 4.7/5)
7. Kumarakom: Backwaters and Bird Sanctuary
Where: Kumarakom is a serene village nestled on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, renowned for its tranquil backwaters, the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and rejuvenating Ayurvedic resorts. It’s a perfect escape for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is the closest airport, situated approximately 85 km away. Taxis and pre-booked transfers are readily available.
- By Train: Kottayam railway station, about 16 km away, is the nearest railhead. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Kottayam to reach Kumarakom.
- By Road: Kumarakom is well-connected by road to major towns and cities in Kerala. Buses and taxis operate regularly.
Food Options:
Kumarakom’s cuisine is predominantly fresh seafood and traditional Kerala fare. Expect:
- Freshwater Fish Preparations: Indulge in locally caught fish cooked in various styles, often with coconut milk and aromatic spices.
- Karimeen Pollichathu: A signature dish of pearl spot fish marinated in spices and grilled in banana leaves.
- Appam and Stew: Soft, lacy-edged pancakes served with a creamy vegetable or meat stew.
- Thoran: A dry vegetable dish often made with coconut and lentils.
Hotel Options:
- Kumarakom Lake Resort: A luxurious heritage resort offering private villas and backwater views. (Rating: 4.8/5)
- The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa: An upscale resort with modern amenities and a focus on wellness. (Rating: 4.6/5)
- Coconut Lagoon – CGH Earth: An eco-friendly resort built amidst coconut groves, offering a unique backwater experience. (Rating: 4.7/5)
8. Wayanad: Nature’s Emerald Embrace
Where: Wayanad, located in the Western Ghats, is a picturesque district characterized by its lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, historical caves, and spice plantations. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Calicut International Airport (CCJ), approximately 87 km away, is the nearest airport. Taxis and buses are available for onward travel.
- By Train: Kozhikode (Calicut) railway station, about 72 km away, is the major railhead. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Wayanad.
- By Road: Wayanad has a good road network connecting it to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. Buses and taxis are readily available.
Food Options:
Wayanad’s cuisine features local Kerala dishes with a touch of tribal influence. Savor:
- Traditional Kerala Meals: Enjoy rice served with an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries.
- Bamboo Rice Payasam: A sweet dessert made from bamboo rice, milk, and jaggery.
- Spiced Tea and Coffee: Relish the flavors of locally grown spices in your beverages.
- Pathiri: A thin rice flatbread often served with curries.
Hotel Options:
- Vythiri Village: A luxurious resort nestled amidst lush greenery, offering treehouse accommodations. (Rating: 4.6/5)
- Windflower Resorts and Spa, Wayanad: A serene resort with stunning views and excellent spa facilities. (Rating: 4.5/5)
- Thejas Resorts: A comfortable and budget-friendly option with good amenities. (Rating: 4.0/5)
9. Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum): The Capital’s Charm
Where: Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is a vibrant hub that seamlessly blends historical significance with modern urban life. It’s home to ancient temples, museums, art galleries, and beautiful beaches nearby.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) serves the city directly, with domestic and international flights.
- By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central is a major railway station with excellent connectivity to all parts of India.
- By Road: The city has a well-developed road network, with regular bus services connecting it to other cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Food Options:
Thiruvananthapuram offers a wide range of culinary delights, including:
- Sadhya: A traditional vegetarian feast served during festivals and special occasions.
- Seafood Specialties: Being a coastal city, fresh seafood preparations are a must-try.
- Pazham Pori: Sweet banana fritters, a popular snack.
- Kappa and Meen Curry: Tapioca cooked with spices, served with fish curry.
Hotel Options:
- The Leela Kovalam: While technically in Kovalam, it’s easily accessible from Trivandrum and offers luxurious beachfront stays. (Rating: 4.8/5)
- Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram: A contemporary hotel with excellent amenities and service. (Rating: 4.5/5)
- Hotel Residency Tower: A centrally located hotel offering comfortable accommodation at a reasonable price. (Rating: 4.2/5)
10. Thrissur: The Cultural Heartbeat of Kerala
Where: Thrissur, known as the cultural capital of Kerala, is famous for its vibrant festivals, especially the spectacular Thrissur Pooram. The city is steeped in history and home to numerous ancient temples and cultural institutions.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK), about 58 km away, is the nearest airport.
- By Train: Thrissur has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India.
- By Road: Thrissur has a good road network, and regular bus services are available from various locations.
Food Options:
Thrissur’s cuisine is rich in traditional Kerala flavors. Don’t miss:
- Thrissur Pooram Sadhya: A special vegetarian feast associated with the Thrissur Pooram festival.
- Unnakkaya: Sweet banana fritters filled with coconut and nuts.
- Pazhampuri: Ripe banana slices dipped in batter and fried.
Hotel Options:
- Radisson Blu Hotel Thrissur: A modern hotel with excellent amenities and a central location. (Rating: 4.4/5)
- The Garuda Hotel: A comfortable hotel known for its hospitality and good service. (Rating: 4.1/5)
- Hotel Elite International: A budget-friendly option offering clean and comfortable rooms. (Rating: 3.8/5)
Kerala, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, promises an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you seek the tranquility of backwaters, the thrill of wildlife encounters, the serenity of hill stations, or the vibrancy of cultural hubs, “God’s Own Country” has something special to offer every traveler. Plan your journey, immerse yourself in its beauty, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this nationalwala.com blog regarding travel details, food options, hotel information, and review ratings is for general informational purposes only. Availability, pricing, and ratings are subject to change. It is recommended to verify the latest information directly with the respective service providers before making any travel arrangements or decisions.
