Kerala, the lush green land tucked away in the South West Malabar coast of India, the state lodged between the Western Ghats and Arabian Sea is the mark of eternal bliss. Enchanting seashores, golden beaches bordered with numerous coconut palms, captivating backwaters, vast green straggling paddy fields, cool mountain terrains, romantic hill stations, picturesque villages, zigzag rocks, rivers, lagoons, rich flora and fauna. To date, age-old state preserves its tradition and culture with its heavenly attractions. National Geographic Magazine mentioned, Kerala as one of the “ten paradises of the world” and “50 places of a lifetime”, what a proud tagline for the mesmerizing state. Here are the places you shouldn’t miss with Kerala.
Picturesque Backwaters – Heavenly Ecstasy
Kerala is famous for its tranquil backwaters, one of the major tourist attractions. Vembanad, the largest backwater, stretches up to 200km between Alappuzha and Kochi. The labyrinthine backwater network covers more than 900km of Kerala landscape. Kumarakom (an island of Vembanad backwater) is one of the coolest serene holiday spot drawing droves of tourists every season. At Kumarakom, besides the backwaters, is the adjoining bird sanctuary, where different breeds find shelter in the calm environment. On houseboats or canoes, you can cruise along the peaceful backwaters and enjoy delightful sights like fishing, villagers washing clothes by the water side, birds waiting for prey, colourful flora spread beneath the water bodies, historic resorts and Ayurvedic centres.
Silent Valley National Park – The Soul of Western Ghats
Adorned with the greenery, Silent Valley National Park is idyllic and must visit tourist spot. Silent Valley, located in Palakkad district is the core biosphere of Nilgiri hills and the den of the highest population of lion-tailed Macaque. Added to the pristine glory of the nature, Kunthipuzha, the crystal clear river flows from the Nilgiri hills, passes through the stretch of the valley, down to the thick forest – an alluring sight for anyone.
Thekkady – The Call Of The Wild
Thekkady is the famous for the wildlife ecosystem and enhanced natural beauty. The tourist spot has Indian elephants, boars, bison, tiger, leopard and other wild animals. Thekkady, located in the Periyar National Park, is famous for spice plantations, trekking spots, hills and long stretch of wildlife reserves along the Periyar forest. Adding to the attraction of the Periyar Tiger Reserve Park is the lake, you can enjoy an adventurous boat ride watching the wildlife at a closer view – elephants, water birds, are the usual sight.
Cochin – The Queen Of Arabian Sea
Kochi, the commercial hub and metropolitan city of Kerala is the Queen of Arabian Sea. Decked with many interesting attractions, is the easiest gateway for visitors. The word Kochi conjures the smell of waterscapes, images of backwaters merging with Arabian Sea, lagoons edged with Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church at Fort Kochi (Cochin mainland), Jewish synagogue, Hill palace, Bolgatty Palace and many more down the list. Kochi being the metro-city offers you all convenience to connect to other destinations via rail, air, bus or waterways.
Munnar – The Serene Hill station
It was the summer resort of British Government while they ruled India. It is situated 1600m above sea level. Munnar, the sound itself reminds us of the enduring chill atmosphere, tea and coffee plantations, hills, eucalyptus scent, botanical gardens, resorts, etc. Three rivers of Western Ghats; Mudrapuzha, Nallathani and Kundala confluence down the three mountains and flows through Munnar town. Visiting Munnar is like a paradise, misty clouds surrounding you and the verdant landscapes, cozy climate, unending sights of the greenery – a romantic hub for newlyweds. Adventurous travellers can go trekking along the terrain. Waterfalls, Indo Swiss dairy farm, dam, lakes are other spectacular sightings.
