Best Places to visit in Kerala

Kochi, Kerala

Kerala, also known as "God's Own Country," is a state located in the southern part of India. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, serene backwaters, palm-lined beaches, picturesque hill stations, and unique culture.

One of the main attractions of Kerala is the backwaters, a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes that stretch along the coast. The backwaters are a popular destination for houseboat cruises, where visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings while floating on a traditional Kerala houseboat.

Kerala is also known for its lush green hills, with popular hill stations such as Munnar and Wayanad offering stunning views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and valleys. The Western Ghats mountain range in Kerala is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr and Lion-tailed Macaque.

Kerala's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its traditional art forms such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Theyyam. The state is also famous for its cuisine, which is known for its use of coconut, spices, and seafood. Some of the popular dishes include Appam, Puttu, Fish curry, and Avial.

Kerala also has a number of popular beaches, including Kovalam, Varkala, and Cherai, which offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The state is also home to a number of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Silent Valley National Park, which offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature walks.

Overall, Kerala is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a range of experiences for travelers. Whether you're interested in cultural heritage, natural beauty, or just relaxing on the beach, Kerala has something to offer.

Here are some of the top places to visit in Kerala:

1. Munnar - A picturesque hill station famous for its tea gardens, waterfalls, and lush green valleys.
   
   Explore the hidden treasures of Munnar, Kerala.
   
   
2. Alleppey - Known for its backwaters, Alleppey offers a unique experience of cruising through the tranquil backwaters on a houseboat.
   
   Alleppey, Kerala – Best Travelling Destination
   
   
3. Wayanad - A popular hill station, Wayanad is known for its biodiversity, wildlife, and scenic beauty.
   
   Beautiful Wayanad Kerala - A Place Where The Soul Can Rest
   
   
4. Kochi - A historical city with a blend of European and Indian cultures, Kochi is known for its ancient churches, synagogues, and palaces.
   
   
5. Thekkady - Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
   
   
6. Kovalam - A popular beach destination, Kovalam is known for its pristine beaches, lighthouses, and beach resorts.
   
   
7. Varkala - A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, cliff views, and yoga centers.
   
   
8. Thrissur - Known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is famous for its temples, festivals, and art forms.
   
   
9. Bekal - A scenic coastal town with a majestic fort and tranquil beaches.
   
   
10. Kumarakom - A small village known for its bird sanctuary, Kumarakom is another popular backwater destination.

These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Kerala, each with its own unique charm and beauty. Kerala's natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and serene environment make it a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Best time to visit Kerala

The best time to visit Kerala is between the months of September to March, which is the winter season. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with moderate temperatures, and little to no rainfall. This makes it an ideal time for sightseeing, beach activities, and outdoor adventures.

The winter season: in Kerala is also when the state celebrates many festivals, such as Onam, which is the state festival of Kerala. During this festival, you can witness colorful cultural performances, traditional cuisine, and other festivities.

The summer season: from April to June, can be hot and humid in Kerala, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. However, the hill stations of Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady offer a respite from the heat, with cool and pleasant temperatures.

The monsoon season: from July to September, brings heavy rainfall to Kerala, making it difficult to engage in outdoor activities. However, this is a good time to witness the lush greenery of Kerala, with the state's waterfalls and backwaters at their most beautiful.

Overall, the best time to visit Kerala depends on your interests and preferences. However, if you want to experience the best of Kerala's weather, culture, and attractions, the winter season is the ideal time to visit.

Budget required to visit Kerala.

The budget required to visit Kerala depends on your travel style, the type of accommodation, transportation, and the duration of your stay. Here is a rough estimate of the expenses for a 5-day trip to Kerala:

Accommodation: Budget hotels and homestays start at around INR 800-1000 per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts cost around INR 2000-3000 per night. Luxury resorts and villas can cost INR 5000 and above per night.

Transportation: Hiring a taxi for local sightseeing and travel can cost around INR 1500-2000 per day. Alternatively, you can also rent a car or bike starting at INR 800-1000 per day.

Food: Kerala is known for its delicious food, and you can expect to pay around INR 300-500 per meal at local restaurants. Homestays and budget hotels also offer affordable meals starting at around INR 100-150 per meal.

Activities: Kerala offers a variety of activities, including exploring backwaters, visiting hill stations, and wildlife safaris. The cost of activities varies depending on the type of experience you want to have. Entry fees to popular tourist spots like Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Palace cost around INR 50-100 per person. Boat rides in the backwaters can cost between INR 500-1500 per person.

Overall, a 5-day trip to Kerala can cost around INR 20,000-30,000 per person for a budget trip, while mid-range and luxury trips can cost upwards of INR 50,000 per person. These estimates are exclusive of airfare or railway expenses to reach Kerala.