I still remember the first time I set foot in Kerala—the fresh air, the soothing sound of nature, and the warm hospitality of the locals instantly made me feel at home. If you’re looking for a place where lush greenery meets serene backwaters, misty hill stations, and golden beaches, then Kerala should be on your travel bucket list. Let me take you on a virtual tour of some of the most breathtaking places I visited in Kerala.
1. Munnar – A Paradise in the Hills
The moment I reached Munnar, I was greeted by endless tea plantations spread like a green carpet across rolling hills. The air was crisp, carrying the fragrance of fresh tea leaves. I took a walk through the tea gardens, and it felt like stepping into a dream. Don’t miss Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and the stunning Attukal Waterfalls that cascade down rocky cliffs. The sunrise at Top Station was one of the most magical moments of my trip.
2. Alleppey – The Venice of the East
Kerala’s backwaters are famous worldwide, and Alleppey is the perfect place to experience them. I boarded a houseboat, and as we cruised through the serene waters, I felt an unparalleled sense of peace. The sight of coconut trees reflecting on the calm backwaters, local fishermen rowing their tiny boats, and birds flying overhead made it an unforgettable experience. The Alappuzha Beach and Marari Beach were perfect for a relaxing sunset stroll.
3. Kumarakom – A Tranquil Escape
Another backwater destination, but with a more peaceful vibe, Kumarakom stole my heart. I visited the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where I saw flocks of migratory birds like Siberian cranes and herons. The houseboat ride here was slower and more intimate, allowing me to soak in the beauty of the endless lagoons, lush paddy fields, and quaint village life. If you want to truly unwind, this is the place.
4. Thekkady – A Wildlife Lover’s Delight
If you’re a nature enthusiast, Thekkady should be on your list. I took a boat ride on Periyar Lake, surrounded by dense forests. Watching elephants, deer, and even a few wild boars along the shore was thrilling! The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers jungle safaris and trekking experiences. One of the most adventurous things I did here was the Bamboo Rafting, where we rowed through the silent waters of the forest.
5. Kovalam – The Beach Lover’s Paradise
I have always been a fan of beaches, and Kovalam exceeded my expectations. The crescent-shaped Lighthouse Beach was stunning, with soft golden sand and towering palm trees. I climbed the Vizhinjam Lighthouse, and the panoramic view of the Arabian Sea left me speechless. For those who love adventure, there are plenty of water sports like surfing and parasailing.
6. Wayanad – The Land of Waterfalls and Caves
Wayanad felt like stepping into an untouched paradise. The Edakkal Caves, with their ancient rock carvings, transported me to a different era. The cascading Meenmutty Waterfalls and Soochipara Waterfalls were pure natural wonders. Wayanad is also a great place for trekking, and I hiked up Chembra Peak, where the heart-shaped lake was a sight to behold.
7. Varkala – A Cliffside Retreat
If you want a mix of beaches, cliffs, and spiritual vibes, Varkala is the place to be. I spent hours sitting on the cliffs, watching the waves crash against the rocks. The Varkala Beach was less crowded, making it perfect for a quiet swim. The Janardanaswamy Temple, an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site, added to the spiritual charm of the place. The little cafes on the cliffs served delicious seafood with breathtaking views.
8. Kochi – The Queen of the Arabian Sea
Kochi is a beautiful blend of history and modernity. Walking through the Fort Kochi streets, I saw remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. The famous Chinese Fishing Nets at sunset were a mesmerizing sight. I also visited the Mattancherry Palace, which houses fascinating murals and artifacts. The food scene in Kochi is unbeatable—don’t leave without trying the local delicacies like appam with stew and Kerala-style seafood.
9. Ponmudi – The Hidden Gem of Kerala
Ponmudi is a lesser-known hill station, but it quickly became one of my favorite places. The winding roads leading up to Ponmudi were a thrilling ride. The mist-covered hills, lush tea plantations, and cool climate made it an ideal escape from the heat. I also explored Meenmutty Falls and had a refreshing dip in the natural pools.
10. Bekal – The Fort by the Sea
Bekal is famous for its stunning seaside fort, and I was awestruck by its beauty. Bekal Fort, with its massive walls and strategic location overlooking the Arabian Sea, felt like a scene straight out of a historical epic. The beach surrounding the fort was pristine, and I enjoyed a peaceful sunset walk there. If you love history and nature, Bekal is a must-visit.
Final Thoughts: Why Kerala Should Be on Your Travel List
Every place I visited in Kerala had a unique charm, whether it was the misty hills of Munnar, the serene backwaters of Alleppey, or the sun-kissed beaches of Kovalam. The food, the people, and the overall experience made it a trip to remember. Kerala is not just a destination; it’s a feeling—a feeling of being close to nature, of slowing down, and of experiencing pure bliss.
If you’re planning a trip, make sure to visit during the cooler months from September to March. But even in summer, the hill stations and backwaters offer a refreshing retreat. Trust me, once you visit Kerala, you’ll leave a piece of your heart behind, just like I did.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore God’s Own Country!