Alleppey, a must-visit in Kerala, offers serene backwaters flanked by coconut trees and paddy fields, perfect for a relaxing cruise on a 'Shikara' or houseboat. Best time: November to February. Duration: 2 days. Expense: ₹2433/day/person. Places: Vembanad Lake, Marari Beach, St. Mary's Forane Church. Activities: Houseboat cruises, kayaking, beach sunset, snake boat race, spa. Transport: Road: Cab from Kochi or Kerala Tourism Buses. Train: Alappuzha Railway Station. Air: Kochi International Airport.
Ernakulam, Kochi, or Port Cochin, serves as Kerala's gateway, inviting history buffs and beach lovers. Explore the colonial tales in Kochi's lanes, adorned with French, Dutch, and British remnants. Best time: October to March. Duration: 2 days. Expense: ₹1200-₹1500/person. Places: Vasco Da Gama Square, Jewish Synagogue, Chinese Fishing Nets, Andhakaranzi Beach. Activities: Visit old churches, Vasco Da Gama's tomb, explore Jewish Synagogues, enjoy local delicacies. Transport: Road: National highways, Train: Ernakulam Railway station, Air: Cochin International Airport.
Thekkady, known as the Spice capital of India, beckons nature enthusiasts with Periyar Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary. Discover diverse fauna and flora, indulge in unique coffee and spice varieties. Best time: October to February. Duration: 2-3 days. Expense: ₹7,525/person (2 Nights/3 Days). Places: Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, Pandikuzhi, Periyar National Park, Periyar Tiger Trail. Activities: Explore spice markets, wildlife sanctuary, elephant ride, village discovery, jungle safari. Transport: Road: Buses from other states. Train: Kottayam Railway. Air: Madurai Domestic Airport.
Nestled amidst lush tea gardens, Munnar in Kerala promises an unforgettable experience with picturesque scenery. Savor hot masala chai amidst green hills, or indulge in trekking, camping, and boating. Best time: November to February. Duration: 3-4 days. Expense: ₹1,959/person/day. Places: Chokramudi Peak, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, Echo Point, Pothamedu Viewpoint. Activities: Explore Keralian cuisine, visit tea estates, wildlife photography. Transport: Road: Cab from Kochi or state buses. Train: Eranakulam Junction. Air: Cochin International Airport.
Once known as Trichur, Thrissur is Kerala's cultural hub, rich in historical and religious significance. Home to Neolithic relics, it boasts the oldest human settlements. The vibrant Pooram festival lures tourists worldwide. Best time: December to February. Duration: 1-2 days. Expense: ₹18,000 (6 Nights/7 Days). Places: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Chavakkad Beach, Kerala Kalamandalam, Lourdes Cathedral, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple. Activities: Temple visits, witness Kerala's dance forms, beach activities, explore churches, cathedrals, palaces, and ruins. Transport: Road: Cabs from Kochi, Mallapuram, Pallakad. Train: Thrissur Railway Station. Air: Cochin International Airport.
Kovalam, a gem of Kerala, offers a vibrant blend of sand, sea, and coconut trees along its rocky coastline. With crescent beaches and warm sands, it's a haven for beach lovers. Best time: November to February. Duration: 2 days. Expense: ₹14,999 (5 Nights/6 Days). Places: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, Padmanabhaswami Temple, Samudra Beach. Activities: Sunset from the lighthouse, water sports, seafood, spa, sightseeing. Transport: Road: Inter-state buses, Train: Trivandrum station, Air: Trivandrum International Airport.
Wayanad, dubbed the "land of paddy fields," charms visitors with its cool weather and plethora of waterfalls, spice gardens, caves, and lakes. Adventure sports enthusiasts find ample opportunities here. The region boasts the rare Neelakurinji flower, blooming once every 12 years. Best time: October to February. Duration: 2-3 days. Expense: ₹7,500 (2 Nights/3 Days). Places: Pookode Lake, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam. Activities: Boating, plantation tours, cave treks, wildlife spotting. Transport: Road: Cab from Calicut, Train: Nilambur Station, Air: Calicut International Airport.
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's capital, is a paradise for beach enthusiasts, blending rural and urban charm. With its exotic beaches, resorts, and cozy cafes, it's ideal for solo or honeymoon getaways. Best time: October to March. Duration: 3-4 days. Expense: ₹2,799/person/day. Places: Kanakakkunu Palace, Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam Beach, Arruvy Waterfalls, Anchuthengu Fort. Activities: Beach relaxation, water sports, seafood indulgence, temple visits, fort exploration. Transport: Road: Connected via national highways, Train: Trivandrum Railway station, Air: Trivandrum International Airport.
Formerly known as Calicut, Kozhikode is a haven for nature and history aficionados. It marks Vasco Da Gama's historic landing spot, opening trade routes to India. Nestled near the Malabar coast, it offers pristine beaches, historic landmarks, waterfalls, temples, and churches. Best time: June to September. Duration: 3 days. Expense: ₹11,000 (6 Nights/7 Days). Places: Kakkayam Dam, Vayalada, Kozhikode Beach, Kariyathumpara, Payyoli Dam. Activities: Beach fun, city walks, backwater experiences, culinary delights. Transport: Road: Buses, Train: Quilandi Railway, Air: Calicut International Airport.
Nestled off the Malabar coast, Kannur, dubbed the Crown of Kerala, offers a picturesque getaway with echoes of Dutch, French, and English colonial history. Besides beach relaxation, tourists can explore monuments and cashew plantations. Best time: October to March. Duration: 1-2 days. Expense: ₹1,500/person/day. Places: Muzhapilangad Beach, St. Angelo Fort, Payyambalam Beach, Baby Beach, Kannur Lighthouse. Activities: Banana boat rides, trekking, bike tours, exploring forts, and beach relaxation. Transport: Road: State-run buses or cabs. Train: Kannur Railway Station. Air: Kannur International Airport.
Kumarakom, nestled near Vembanad beach, is a serene gem in Kerala, attracting travelers for its scenic backwaters and local biodiversity. From Ayurvedic massages to birdwatching, the options are diverse. Best time: September to March. Duration: 3 days. Expense: ₹9,900 (2 Nights/3 Days). Places: Thazhathangadi Valiapalli, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Bay Island Driftwood, Jatayu Rock, Kottayam. Activities: Snorkeling, birdwatching, spas, houseboat rides, water polo. Transport: Road: State buses to Kottayam. Train: Kottayam Railway station. Air: Kochi Airport.
Vagamon, a serene hill station near Munnar, entices with misty valleys, tea plantations, and a pleasant climate. Thrill-seekers can enjoy trekking and sports, while others can relax in its enchanting ambiance. Best Time: Throughout the year. Duration: 1-2 days. Expense: ₹8,500 (2 Nights/3 Days). Places: Vagamon Falls, Kursimala, Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary, Pine Hill. Activities: Off-road hiking, paragliding, trekking, spice garden visits, local shopping. Transport: Road: Bus from Kottayam or cabs from Kochi. Train: Kottayam Railway Station. Air: Kochi International Airport, then cabs to Vagamon.
Kumily, nestled on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, offers diverse attractions like recreational activities, plantations, Kalari centers, and wildlife sanctuaries. It serves as a gateway to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, with accommodations available. Nearby, explore Peermede hill station and Tribal Heritage Museum. Best Time: September to April. Duration: 1-2 days. Places: Periyar National Park, Thekkady Lake, Kadathanadan Kalari Center, Abraham Spice Garden. Activities: Kalari demonstrations, plantation walks, spice garden visits, trekking, elephant rides. Transport: Road: Cab from Kerala cities, Train: Kottayam Railway Station, Air: Kochi International Airport, then cab to Kumily.
Idukki, nestled in the Western Ghats, offers tranquility amidst rocky terrain and lush vegetation. Rivers like Periyar, Thalaya, and Thodupuzhayar enhance its greenery. Lagoons, waterfalls, and serene rivers adorn the landscape. Best time: November to February. Duration: 2-3 days. Expense: ₹6,000 (2 Nights/3 Days). Places: Anamudi Hills, Marayur, Idukki Arch Dam, Anchuruli Waterfalls, Vagamon. Activities: Sandalwood forest visits, hill drives, viewpoint experiences, plantation explorations, local cuisine. Transport: Road: Cab from Kochi (3 hours 26 minutes), Train: Ernakulam Railway Station, Air: Cochin International Airport.
Varkala stands out among Kerala's gems for its breathtaking views. Pilgrimage sites, forts, and natural wonders adorn this coastal haven. Varkala Beach, a highlight, offers mesmerizing sunsets and serene moments. Best time: October to February. Duration: 3 days. Expense: ₹11,000 (2 Nights/3 Days). Places: Kappil Beach, Janardhan Swami Temple, Ponnumthuruthu Island, Odayam Beach. Activities: Local cuisine, Kilimannor Palace exploration, lighthouse ascent, temple visits, watersports. Transport: Road: Kerala Tourism buses. Train: Trivandrum Railway Station. Air: Trivandrum International Airport.
Poovar, a romantic haven in Kerala, features the idyllic Golden Sand Beach, nestled between the Arabian Sea and serene backwaters. Rent a motorboat to cruise through mangrove-laden waters to reach this tranquil spot. Experience the azure waves of the Arabian Sea and consider booking a floating cottage for a romantic retreat. Best time: October to February. Duration: 2-3 days. Expense: ₹6,599 (2 Nights/3 Days). Places: Golden Sand Beach, Thikotti Lighthouse, Thiruparappu Falls, Kozhipara, Poovar Backwaters. Activities: Backwater cruises, birdwatching, resort relaxation, shopping, Ayurvedic massages. Transport: Road: Cabs or state buses, Train: Trivandrum Railway Station, Air: Trivandrum Airport.
Tranquility seekers must explore Monroe Island, a cluster of 8 interconnected islands with turquoise canals. Coconut plantations offer a serene ambiance. Don't miss the Kallada boat race during Onam. Best time: November to February. Duration: 1-2 days. Expense: ₹500 (entry fee). Places: Kakathuruthu, Munroe Island Canal, Kallada River, Santa Cruz Basilica, Ashtamudi Lake. Activities: Island hopping, birdwatching, amusement park visits, snake boat races, Kathakali performances. Transport: Road: Taxi from Kollam Railway Station. Train: Munroeturuttu from Kollam. Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
Known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala, Kuttanad retains its rustic charm amidst coconut groves and backwaters. It's a haven for those seeking an authentic Kerala experience. Best time: August to March. Duration: 1-2 days. Expense: ₹1,500 per adult per day. Places: Bhagawathi Temple, Backwaters, Chavara Bhawan, Achankovil River, Meenachil Rivers. Activities: Backwater cruises, temple visits, walking tours, culinary delights. Transport: Road: Car or bus from Alleppey. Train: Nearest stations at Alleppey and Changanacherry. Air: Closest airport is in Kochi.
Ponnani, known as the 'Mecca of India', showcases cultural harmony with its mosques and beaches along the Arabian Sea. The historic Jumma Masjid stands as a testament to its rich heritage. Birdwatchers flock here for the diverse avian population. Best time: October to March. Duration: 1 day. Places: Juma Masjid, Ponnani Lighthouse, Padinjarekkara Beach, Navamukumda Temple. Activities: Birdwatching, town exploration, nature appreciation. Transport: Road: Taxi from neighboring cities. Train: Chennagur Railway Station. Air: Trivandrum Airport.
Known as "The lake where Goddess bathe," Devikulam holds deep religious significance for Hindus. With its cascading waterfalls, tea plantations, and serene lakes, it's a must-visit in Kerala. Best time: November to May. Duration: 1-2 days. Places: Devi lake, Hill View Park, Meesapulimala, Anayiranakal Lake, Attala Rock Shelter. Activities: Meadow walks, plantation tours, lake exploration. Transport: Road: State buses from Kottayam, Munnar, Kochi. Train: Kottayam Railway Station. Air: Kochi Airport. Kerala's rich culture and scenic beauty ensure an unforgettable experience. Don't miss the authentic Kerala cuisine for a complete journey.