Looking for a perfect holiday destination in India? Come visit Kerala, the land of beaches, lagoons, fishing villages, wildlife sanctuaries, mountains ranges and a rich cultural heritage. Located on the Malabar coast at the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, the state of Kerala has so much to offer making it one of the most sought after destinations. A journey into this holiday kingdom will leave you with a riveting experience, making you want to come back for more.
Varkala Beach:
The most popular beach in Kerala is the Varkala beach, a haven for swimming and sun-bathing. Also known as Papanasam beach, its beauty is manifested through cliffs that encircle the Arabian Sea. Atop the cliffs are a splendid array of restaurants, resorts and a long stretch of shops that span over a kilometre. During the day you can soak up the sun on the beach while the evening view from the cliffs will leave you lingering over the setting sun.
Munnar Hill Station:
Nestled in the mountain range of the Western Ghats is the popular hill station, Munnar. At 1600 metres above sea level, Munnar in Kerala is a divine abode complete with tea and coffee plantations on the plush green mountainside, a scattering of waterfalls and even trekking paths for the adventurous few. Once a summer resort of the bygone British Government, Munnar provides a perfect setting for holiday goers looking to take in the blissful sights and cool misty air of the beautiful mountain region.
Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary:
The Periyar National Park in Thekkady is the place to be if you want to observe nature and wildlife at its very best. This wildlife sanctuary is home to the great Indian tiger, boars, Nilgiri langurs, sambar, deer, bisons, and herds of wild elephants which hold the greatest attraction when they come down to drink in the lake. The Tourism Department of Kerala provides trekking deep into the forests that can be traversed on foot or atop elephants.
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Silent Valley National Park:
Silent Valley located in the Nilgiri hills in the Palakkad district of Kerala is the abode of natural rainforests covering an extensive area of 236.74 square km. The valley is a natural habitat for various species of birds, animals, plants and insects, most notably the endangered lion-tailed Macaque. The valley greets you with a stillness and calm that is true to its name.
Backwaters of Alleppey:
A trip to Kerala will not be complete without visiting its famed backwaters in Alappuzha, more commonly known as Alleppey. A houseboat cruise on the tranquil backwaters at this famous tourist destination will fill you with a calm and serenity that can only be experienced in ‘God’s own Country’.
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Kumarakom Lake Resort:
Kumarakom located in the Kottayam district of Kerala is a place where beauty meets splendor. Coined as the Venice of the East, it is a relaxing getaway with its mangrove covered lagoons and a luxurious resort on the backwaters of Kerala that offers a unique experience in outdoor and water activities ranging from fishing and boating to a visit in the countryside that houses a small bird sanctuary where exclusive species of birds can be observed.
Kerala’s Marine Drive:
If you’re visiting Kochi then Marine Drive should be at the top of your list. Built facing the backwaters, it is a local and tourist hub with shopping malls and fast food joints aligning its walkway. The walkway itself is the centre of attraction where an awe-inspiring view of the rising and setting sun in the distance can be viewed from under the Rainbow Bridge and Chinese Fishing Net Bridge (pictured below)
Thrissur – The Cultural Capital of Kerala:
Thrissur abounds in spiritual and cultural heritage making it the cultural capital of Kerala. It is famous for its Vadakkumnathan Temple and the biggest festival of all, Thrissur Pooram. A sight to behold on this festive day is the hundred adorned elephants on either sides of the temple.
Mattupatti Dam:
The surrounding area of Mattupatti Dam in Munnar’s Idukki District is a popular picnic spot that’s situated in the mountains of Kerala. It offers boating and horse riding activities apart from a breathtaking view of the soothing atmosphere.
