10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Kerala: A Complete Guide to God’s Own Country
Kerala, also known as God’s Own Country, is a vibrant state located on the Malabar Coast of southwestern India. With its palm-lined beaches, lush green landscapes, tranquil backwaters, and a rich cultural heritage, Kerala is a traveler’s paradise. The state’s rich history, diverse wildlife, and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for everyone. From the majestic Western Ghats to the serene backwaters, Kerala is a land of wonders, with something for everyone. In this article, we have compiled a list of 10 must-visit tourist attractions in Kerala that will leave you spellbound.
List of 10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Kerala:
- Backwaters of Alleppey
- Munnar
- Thekkady
- Fort Kochi
- Kovalam
- Wayanad
- Athirappilly Waterfalls
- Varkala Beach
- Bekal Fort
- Thrissur
1) Backwaters of Alleppey:
![Backwaters of Alleppey - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Backwaters of Alleppey - Tourist Attractions in Kerala](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Backwaters_of_Alleppey_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
Known as the “Venice of the East,” the backwaters of Alleppey are a unique network of canals, lagoons, and lakes that stretch over 900 kilometers. A houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that must not be missed.
2) Munnar:
![Munnar - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Munnar - Tourist Attractions in Kerala](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Munnar_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
A hill station located in the Western Ghats, Munnar is famous for its tea plantations, misty hills, and breathtaking scenery. Take a walk through the tea gardens, and enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed tea, and bask in the lush greenery.
3) Thekkady:
![Thekkady - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Thekkady - Tourist Attractions in Kerala](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Thekkady_Periyar_Wildlife_Sanctuary_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady is home to tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. The sanctuary is set in a picturesque location surrounded by hills, and you can enjoy a boat ride through the sanctuary’s artificial lake.
4) Fort Kochi:
![Fort Kochi - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Fort Kochi - Tourist Attractions in Kerala](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Fort_Kochi_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
The historic town of Fort Kochi is a charming mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture. The town has a rich history, and it is also famous for its Chinese fishing nets.
5) Kovalam:
![Kovalam - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Kovalam - Tourist Attractions in Kerala](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Kovalam_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
Kovalam is one of the most popular beaches in Kerala, known for its pristine sandy shores, blue waters, and peaceful ambiance. You can indulge in water sports like surfing and parasailing, or simply relax on the beach.
6) Wayanad:
![Wayanad - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Wayanad](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wayanad_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
Wayanad is a scenic hill station in Kerala, known for its lush green forests, coffee plantations, and tea gardens. Visit the Soochipara waterfalls, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
7) Athirappilly Waterfalls:
![Athirappilly Waterfalls - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Athirappilly Waterfalls - Tourist Attractions in Kerala](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Athirappilly_Waterfalls_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
Located near the entrance of the Sholayar ranges, the Athirappilly waterfalls are a sight to behold. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 80 feet and is surrounded by dense forests.
8) Varkala Beach:
![Varkala Beach - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Varkala Beach](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Varkala_Beach_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala-scaled.jpg)
Varkala beach is a stunning seaside location, famous for its striking cliffs and golden sand. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and a unique rock formation, which adds to its beauty.
9) Bekal Fort:
![Bekal Fort - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Bekal Fort](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bekal_Fort_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
Bekal Fort is a 17th-century fortress, located on the shores of the Arabian Sea. The fort is known for its striking architecture, and it offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding sea.
10) Thrissur:
![Thrissur - Tourist Attractions in Kerala Thrissur](https://traveldestinationclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Thrissur_Tourist_Attractions_Kerala.jpg)
Thrissur is famous for its cultural heritage and the Thrissur Pooram festival, which is held annually. The festival is a grand spectacle of elephants, drummers, and fireworks.
Travel Tips
- If you’re interested in exploring Fort Kochi, make sure to take a guided walking tour to learn more about its history and architecture.
- For the best views in Munnar, head to Top Station or Echo Point, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations and valleys.
- If you’re planning to take a houseboat cruise in Alleppey, make sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.
- The best time to visit Thekkady is from September to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
- Wayanad is a great place for trekking, so make sure to pack appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Kovalam is a popular destination for water sports, so make sure to book in advance and check weather conditions before you go.
- Varkala is a great place for yoga and meditation, so consider booking a yoga retreat or class while you’re there.
- If you’re planning to take a houseboat cruise in Kumarakom, consider booking a longer tour to fully experience the tranquility of the backwaters.
- Thrissur Pooram is a must-see festival for those interested in Kerala’s culture and traditions, but be prepared for large crowds and noise.
Kerala is a destination that should not be missed by any traveler seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxation. The state boasts a diverse range of attractions that cater to every type of traveler, from the adventurous to the serene. From the tranquil backwaters to the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, Kerala is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler. With a rich cultural heritage, exotic cuisine, and friendly locals, Kerala is truly a paradise on earth. Plan your trip to Kerala and experience the magic of this beautiful state for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A. Kerala is a state located on the Malabar Coast of southwestern India, known for its palm-lined beaches, lush green landscapes, tranquil backwaters, and rich cultural heritage.
A. Some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Kerala include the backwaters of Alleppey, Munnar, Thekkady, Fort Kochi, Kovalam, Wayanad, Athirappilly waterfalls, Varkala beach, Bekal Fort, and Thrissur.
A. In Alleppey, you can take a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that must not be missed.
A. Munnar is known for its tea plantations, misty hills, and breathtaking scenery. Take a walk through the tea gardens, enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed tea, and bask in the lush greenery.
A. In Thekkady, you can visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. The sanctuary is set in a picturesque location surrounded by hills, and you can enjoy a boat ride through the sanctuary’s artificial lake.
FAQs
A. Fort Kochi is famous for its charming mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture, as well as its rich history and Chinese fishing nets.
A. In Kovalam, you can indulge in water sports like surfing and parasailing, or simply relax on the beach.
A. Wayanad is known for its scenic beauty, lush green forests, coffee plantations, and tea gardens, as well as the Soochipara waterfalls, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
A. The best time to visit Thekkady is from September to March when the weather is mild and pleasant.
A. Thrissur is famous for its cultural heritage and the Thrissur Pooram festival, which is held annually and is a grand spectacle of elephants, drummers, and fireworks.
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