Kerala, South India
Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is a tropical paradise in southern India celebrated for its lush landscapes, serene backwaters, vibrant culture, and Ayurvedic traditions. The state offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and modern comforts, making it one of India’s top tourist destinations.
Tourist Attractions in Kerala
Alleppey (Alappuzha) Backwaters
- Highlights: Houseboat cruises, palm-fringed waterways, and picturesque villages.
- How to Get There: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (83 km). Trains and buses connect Alleppey to major cities.
- Entrance Fee: Houseboat charges start at ₹5,000 per day.
- Opening Hours: Open all day, houseboats operate 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Munnar
- Highlights: Tea plantations, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, and Anamudi Peak.
- How to Get There: 110 km from Cochin; accessible by road.
- Entrance Fee:
- Eravikulam National Park: ₹200 for Indians, ₹400 for foreigners.
- Tea Museum: ₹125 for adults.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)
- Highlights: Jungle safaris, bamboo rafting, and elephant rides.
- How to Get There: Nearest airport is Madurai (140 km). Accessible by road from Munnar or Kottayam.
- Entrance Fee: ₹45 for Indians, ₹500 for foreigners; additional charges for activities.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Kochi (Cochin)
- Highlights: Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, Mattancherry Palace, and St. Francis Church.
- How to Get There: Cochin International Airport and Kochi railway station.
- Entrance Fee: Free for most sites; Mattancherry Palace: ₹5 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners.
- Opening Hours: Varies by attraction, generally 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Wayanad
- Highlights: Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Soochipara Waterfalls, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
- How to Get There: 90 km from Calicut International Airport; accessible by road.
- Entrance Fee:
- Wildlife Sanctuary: ₹110 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners.
- Edakkal Caves: ₹30 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Varkala Beach
- Highlights: Cliffside views, Ayurvedic spas, and water sports.
- How to Get There: Trivandrum International Airport (50 km) or Varkala railway station.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: Open all day.
Athirappilly Waterfalls
- Highlights: Largest waterfall in Kerala; scenic trekking and photography.
- How to Get There: 55 km from Cochin; accessible by road.
- Entrance Fee: ₹30 for adults.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Kumarakom
- Highlights: Bird sanctuary, houseboat cruises, and serene backwaters.
- How to Get There: 16 km from Kottayam railway station; 80 km from Cochin airport.
- Entrance Fee:
- Bird Sanctuary: ₹50 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners.
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
How to Get Around
- Public Transport: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses are economical and connect cities and towns.
- Auto-rickshaws: Widely available in cities and towns.
- Taxis and Car Rentals: App-based services like Ola and Uber are available in cities. Self-drive car rentals are popular for exploring hill stations.
- Houseboats: Used for exploring backwaters.
- Trains: Convenient for intercity travel.
Popular Local Food
- Appam and Stew: Rice pancakes with coconut milk-based curry.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cakes served with black chickpea curry.
- Malabar Biryani: Aromatic rice and meat dish.
- Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish cooked in banana leaves.
- Banana Chips: A famous snack made from locally grown bananas.
- Kerala Sadya: A traditional vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf.
Top Nightlife Spots
Kochi
- Sky Grill Lounge & Bar (Cochin Marriott Hotel): Known for its rooftop ambiance and cocktails.
- How to Get There: Located near Lulu Mall.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry; food and drinks à la carte.
- Happy Hours: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
- Mattancherry Bar (Taj Malabar): Offers a vintage charm with stunning waterfront views.
- How to Get There: On Willingdon Island.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry; cover charges during events.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
- Sky Grill Lounge & Bar (Cochin Marriott Hotel): Known for its rooftop ambiance and cocktails.
Trivandrum
- Le Club: Popular for its lively ambiance and live music.
- How to Get There: Located near Kovalam Beach.
- Entrance Fee: ₹500–₹1,000 cover charge.
- Happy Hours: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
- Le Club: Popular for its lively ambiance and live music.
Kumarakom
- Coconut Lagoon Bar: Known for serene backwater views and traditional toddy.
- How to Get There: Accessible via a short boat ride.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry; food and drinks à la carte.
- Coconut Lagoon Bar: Known for serene backwater views and traditional toddy.
Varkala
- Darjeeling Cafe: A cliffside bar offering drinks and live music.
- How to Get There: On Varkala cliff.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry.
- Happy Hours: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
- Darjeeling Cafe: A cliffside bar offering drinks and live music.
Kerala’s stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality make it a perfect destination for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion.