Situated between the Arabian Sea in the west and the Western Ghats in the east, Kerala is a perfect blend of natural beauty. It is blessed with abundant geographic as well as cultural diversity. So, if you plan a trip here, make sure to visit its famous places like:
1. Alleppey
It is the Venice of the East and a hub of the state's backwater. In addition, Alleppey is the best weekend spot to spend time boating in its water. Further, the picture-perfect lagoons, calm breeze and the mirror still backwaters offer an overall memorable experience. Moreover, what makes it more amazing is the intricate grid of canals and how deep the connection between the waterways and their marine life is.
2. Kochi
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is Kerala's economic and cultural capital, attracting worldwide tourists. What attracts people the most is the perfect amalgamation of Portuguese, Chinese, and British influences. Moreover, if you visit the place, explore the historical towns of Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. It will let you relish the undeniable remnants of colonial time.
3. Thekkady
Thekkady is the home to the country's largest Tiger Reserve and thus one of the top jungle vacation spots in Kerala. Further, the sanctuary sprawls over an area of 777 kilometres square and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Apart from that, here you can explore the verdant green forest, observe elephants around the sanctuary or ride on a cruise boat over Periyar Lake.
4. Munnar
Munnar is another place that Kerala is famous for. Situated at 1600 metres above sea level, Munnar is heaven on earth. The site contains beautiful winding narrow lanes, endless tea gardens, spice-scented fresh air and mountains covered with mist. Other things worth exploring include Mattupetty Dam, tea estates, Eravikulam National Park, etc.
5. Thrissur
Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala and is rich in archaeological wealth. The political, historical and religious learning is evident through its museums and monuments. Moreover, you can also find an array of beautiful churches and temples here that turns into a hub of activity during the festive period. However, if you visit Thrissur, try the delectable Vellayappam, i.e., a rice hopper.
6. Kovalam
Kovalam appears in the top suggestion when searching for some of the famous places in Kerala. r. The things that make it popular include Vellayani Lake, Karamana River, Light House, Kovalam art gallery, and Valiyathura pier. What more? Its stunning azure waters, falcate-shaped beach and white sandy shore, adds a cherry on top. Lastly, you can also try a few activities here, like parasailing, wind-surfing, etc.
7. Wayanad
Wayanad is a picturesque plateau perching at 700 to 2100 m above sea level. Nestled among the mountains of Western Ghats, it makes Kerala popular by offering scenery that is a sight to sore eyes. The Chembra peak, Meenmutty waterfalls, Neelimala, Banasuragar dam, Kuruva Islands, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Pakshipathalam, and Edakkal caves are only a few picturesque spots to mention.
8. Thiruvananthapuram
The largest city in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum, is another major tourist attraction of the state. There are tons of things famous about this place, like its beaches, backwaters, lagoons and socio-cultural diversity. Moreover, it is also home to the world's richest temple, i.e., Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple. Other places to visit include, Kanakakunnu palace, Neyyar Dam, etc.
9. Kozhikode
Kozhikode, now known as a commercial centre, was once the capital of the Zamorin kingdom. It is a city of historical and cultural significance and welcomes tourists from all parts with open arms. Top things worth exploring here include Thusharagiri waterfalls, Kuttiyadi Dam, Kappad Beach, Regional Science Centre and Mananchira Square. Lastly, you will also find lip-smacking delicacies here.
10. Padmanabha Swamy Temple
Padmanabha Swamy Temple is undoubtedly one of the most famous places in Kerala to explore. What makes it special is that people discovered a treasure worth 1 trillion dollars on its premises a few years back. However, apart from being the richest shrine, this temple was also mentioned in the Hindu religious book, the epic Mahabharata.