In Kerala’s backwaters, time slows down,
Wearing peace like a golden crown.
A haven where hearts find their beat,
In the quiet flow, where heaven and earth meet.
Dive into this blog if you wish to explore the best of Kerala tourist attractions!
The southwestern region of the Indian subcontinent, the Malabar Coast, hosts some of the most breathtaking cities including one that has been dubbed “God’s own country” for its natural beauty and hospitable environment. From lush green forests that hold stunning flora and fauna, the emerald green Backwaters, stunning beaches littered along the Arabian Coast, awe-inspiring wildlife, vibrant festivals, a rich history and cultural milieu to the hospitable locals, it has everything.
Top Kerala Tourist Spots | Places To Visit in 2024 For Your Next Trip
Some interesting facts that go beyond just Kerala tourist attractions
- One of the cleanest states in India, along with Sikkim (NSSO)
- The state values Ayurvedic Treatment and hosts Somatheeram, the world’s first Ayurvedic Resort. It also has a vast network of natural medicinal herbs.
- It is the biggest consumer of gold in India.
- In its 1999 edition, National Geographic Traveler Magazine listed Kerala among the Ten Paradises of the world.
- The Muzhappilangad Beach in Kerala runs parallel to NH 66 and holds the distinction of being the longest drive-in beach in Asia.
- The Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi, Kerala, is the oldest functioning synagogue. It also has the first-ever mosque in India, Cheraman Juma Mosque (629 A.D.) Both of these should make it to your Bucket List for the kerala tour destinations to explore.
- In the entire country, Kerala receives the first monsoon rains.
- Locals enjoy some amazing delights: highest literacy rate in the country, lowest mortality rate, digital access in every village, almost equal sex ratio, media coverage and more- which you can experience as you interact with locals from the state. Hop on to Explurger, a travel social app and check out “Explore Your City” and connect with locals as well as fellow travelers.
Now that we know about the state a bit, it’s time to delve into the best Kerala trip places that offer breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences.
BEACHES
Kerala flaunts a 600 km long coastline along the Arabian Sea, showcasing some of India’s most idyllic and peaceful beaches, which often make it a beautiful Kerala tourist attraction. Whether you crave lively fishing vibes or crave secluded stretches of golden sand embraced by coconut palms, Kerala’s beaches promise a delightful spectrum of experiences for all kinds of travelers that account for one of the most sought Kerala tourist attractions.
- Kovalam: famous for its Ayurvedic delights
- Varkala: adorned by high cliffs
- Marari: off-beat destination for solace seekers
- Bekal: set against a major historical fort
- Cherai: longest beach in Kerala
- Thottada: an offbeat gem for explorers
- Muzhappilangad: the longest drive-in beach in Asia
- Poovar: where the sea meets the famous backwaters
- Payyambalam: don’t miss out on the delectable seafood
- Kizhunna: pristine and secluded set against sturdy rock formations
HISTORY
Kerala, perched on India’s southwestern coast, flaunts a history as rich as its spices. A melting pot of ancient Dravidian roots and colonial past from Portuguese, Dutch, and British suitors, this region turned trade routes into treasure hunts. Iconic landmarks stand as grand storytellers, narrating tales of bygone eras. These forts and landmarks are Kerala’s way of winking at its past, blending architectural brilliance with a dash of historical drama, making the state a living museum where tradition and history waltz together.
Bekal Fort: largest fort in Kerela
St. Angelo Fort: recognized in The Great Siege of Malta, one of the best attractions in kerala
Pallippuram Fort: oldest surviving European fort in India
Thalassery Fort: one of the most important European trading centers
Explore the secret tunnels, nearby churches, and the pristine locations that the forts are famous for, which make incredible Kerala tourist attractions. Do not miss out on the adjoining museums and underground passages as you explore the kerala tour destinations.
Edakkal Caves: interesting geographical phenomenon (cleft)
Kottukal Cave Temple: rock-cut; built between 6-8 century CE
Muniyara Dolmens: Neolithic era burial sites
Punnathur Kotta: elephant sanctuary
Thirunelli Temple: sacred to Lord Vishnu, one of the best kerala tourist spot for spirituality seekers and religious travelers
Kaviyoor Rock Cut Temple: One of the oldest rock-cut temples in Kerala.
Anjengo Fort: hidden-gem; crucial role in a colonial trade network
Idukki Caves: unexplored; potential pre-historic significance
Pandavan Rock: Connection to the epic Mahabharata.
As you explore these ancient clefts, caves and temples- some with easy routes, others that require more adventurous treks, you will be greeted with the glimmering seaside, the tranquil forests, the ancient marvels and much more. Truly, these historical markers make some of the best kerala tourist places to visit.
BACKWATERS
While Alleppey and Kumarakom are the most famous backwater destinations, truly one of the most sought-after Kerala tourist attractions, several hidden and offbeat backwaters offer equally mesmerizing experiences. The backwaters of Kerala are a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets, known for their serene beauty and tranquil ambiance. These waters form an intricate labyrinth that offers a unique way to explore the heart of Kerala’s lush landscapes and vibrant culture.
Alleppey, or Alappuzha: known as Venice of EAST, famous for houseboats (Kettuvallams) and Nehru Trophy Boat race.
Kumarakom: birdwatching, eco-tourism and serene village. Perfect for tranquility seekers.
Kuttanad: often called as “Rice bowl of Kerala” is famous for its Below Sea Level of Farming
Ashtamudi Lake: The Gateway to the Backwaters, is the second largest lake in Kerala. A must-visit Kerala tourist attraction.
Thiruvallam: The confluence of Karamana and Killi rivers is famous for kayaking and canoeing.
Valiyaparamba: A Hidden backwater gem dotted with fishing villages. One of the best travel destinations in Kerala for offbeat travelers who want to experience the local life.
Poovar: A combination of backwaters, beaches, mangrove forests and estuaries.
Kavvayi: One of the largest backwaters and yet a hidden gem. A must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Chithari: a secluded island, perfect for experiencing authentic Kerala life.
Alumkadavu: famous for houseboats and cashews
The backwaters are among the best Kerala tourist places, offering a unique ecosystem formed by the confluence of seawater and freshwater from rivers. Vibrant villages dot the landscape, where life revolves around fishing, coir-making, and agriculture. Houseboats and resorts provide traditional Ayurvedic treatments, making it a wellness haven. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary attracts bird watchers, while toddy shops offer a taste of traditional coconut palm sap beverages. Historic trade routes, traditional snake boat races, rich biodiversity, and cultural festivals further enhance the allure of these tranquil waters, promising an unforgettable experience, and making it to almost everyone’s Explurger Bucket List under the amazing Kerala tourist attraction.
Kerala’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a top contender among the best travel destinations in India. From the serene backwaters of Alleppey and the tranquil beaches of Kovalam to the historical forts of Bekal and the lush hills of Munnar, Kerala offers a myriad of experiences for every kind of traveler. Pick your choice and add these Kerala tourist attractions to your Explurger bucket list without fail!
Embrace the tranquility, explore the heritage, and immerse yourself in the essence of God’s Own Country.