Discovering the Charms Beyond God's Own Country: Best Places to Visit Near Kerala

Diverse Landscapes: Hill Stations, Backwaters, and Beaches Near Kerala

The geographical diversity surrounding Kerala provides a spectacular array of natural wonders. Whether you seek the cool embrace of mountains, the tranquil rhythm of backwaters, or the sun-kissed shores of the Arabian Sea, there's a perfect escape waiting just a short distance away.From mist-laden hill stations to historical strongholds and vibrant coastal towns, the regions surrounding Kerala offer a diverse tapestry of experiences that promise unforgettable memories. Join us as we journey through the Best Places to Visit Near Kerala, venturing into landscapes rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures.

Hill Station Havens: Munnar, Wayanad, and More

For those who yearn for cooler climes and breathtaking vistas, the hill stations adjacent to Kerala are ideal retreats. These elevated paradises are characterized by sprawling tea plantations, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls, offering a refreshing contrast to the coastal heat.

Munnar, nestled at the confluence of three mountain streams—Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala—stands at approximately 1600m above sea level. It is renowned for its undulating hills cloaked in emerald tea plantations, mist-kissed valleys, and crisp mountain air. Major attractions include the vast tea gardens, where visitors can learn about tea processing at the Kannan Devan Tea Museum. Other must-visit spots include:

• Top Station: Offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats, it's a popular lookout point.

• Mattupetty Dam: Known for its masonry dam and a beautiful lake with boating facilities.

• Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park also features Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.

Wayanad, a rural district in Kerala known for its exquisiteness and culture, offers a tranquil atmosphere with its lush greenery and mist-covered peaks. It's a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Key attractions include:

• Banasura Sagar Dam: India's largest earthen dam and the second largest in Asia, it provides a serene atmosphere and opportunities for water sports like speed boating and kayaking.

• Chembra Peak: The highest peak in Wayanad, offering stunning views and a heart-shaped lake en route for trekkers. Trekking here requires Forest Office permission and an authorized guide.

• Edakkal Caves: A fascinating historical site known for prehistoric rock art and ancient inscriptions.

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary): Here, visitors can spot elephants, leopards, tigers, and diverse bird species through jeep safaris or trekking.

• Lakkidi View Point: Often called the "Gateway to Wayanad," it offers grand views of green slopes and breathtaking sunsets.

Tranquil Backwaters & Coastal Gems: Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kovalam, and Varkala

The serene backwaters and captivating coastal towns near Kerala provide a different kind of charm, inviting us to unwind amidst shimmering waterways and golden sands.

Alleppey (Alappuzha), though an integral part of Kerala, is often the quintessential backwater experience that travelers seek. Its network of canals, lagoons, and lakes is best explored via traditional houseboats, offering a glimpse into local life along the waterways. We can spend days cruising through paddy fields, witnessing coir-making units, and enjoying fresh seafood.

Kumarakom, nestled along the serene backwaters of Kerala on the eastern banks of Lake Vembanad, is a picturesque village renowned for its emerald backwaters, lush coconut groves, and rich biodiversity. It offers a quieter, more intimate experience compared to other backwater destinations. Highlights include:

• Houseboat Cruises: Exploring the tranquil backwaters on houseboats, ranging from luxurious to budget-friendly, is a primary attraction.

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Located inside the bird sanctuary, this spot draws migratory birds from as far away as Siberia, including cormorants, egrets, darters, and herons.

• Lake Vembanad: One of India's largest freshwater lakes, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and recreational activities.

Along the coast, we discover stunning beaches that offer both relaxation and adventure.

Kovalam Beach, nestled on Kerala's pristine coastline, is famous for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and laid-back charm. It is divided into three crescent-shaped shores: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach. The iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse on Lighthouse Beach offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Kovalam is also a hub for thrilling water sports, including:

• Parasailing: Gliding across the turquoise water for panoramic coastal views.

• Surfing: Known for consistent waves and ideal conditions.

• Jet Skiing and Paragliding: Other popular adventure activities.

• Snorkelling and Scuba Diving: Exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life beneath the waves.

Varkala, a coastal retreat in Kerala, is famed for its remarkable stretch of red laterite cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea, a unique geological feature on the otherwise flat Kerala coast. Also known as Papanasam Beach, it's believed that a dip in its waters can cleanse one's soul. Varkala offers a peaceful retreat with:

• Adventure Sports: Including surfing, parasailing, paragliding, and stand-up paddle-boarding.

• Yoga and Meditation Centers: Providing a holistic experience near the beach.

• Janardhana Swamy Temple: A 2,000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, adding spiritual significance.

• Cliffside Walkway: Offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.

Wilderness Retreats & Majestic Waterfalls: Periyar, Athirappilly, and Eravikulam

For those drawn to the wild heart of nature, these destinations offer encounters with diverse wildlife and the awe-inspiring power of waterfalls.

Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Thekkady district, is one of India's most visited protected areas and a renowned elephant and tiger reserve. Spanning 925 km², it's a repository of rare, endemic, and endangered flora and fauna.

• Wildlife: We can spot Indian elephants, sambar deer, Nilgiri langurs, Malabar giant squirrels, wild pigs, and various bird species like the Malabar grey hornbill. Tiger sightings are relatively rare but evidence like pugmarks are found throughout the reserve.

• Activities: Game viewing is primarily done on boat safaris on Periyar Lake, offering opportunities to observe mammals at close range. Guided jungle treks and bamboo rafting are also popular.

• Biodiversity: The park boasts 62 species of mammals, 320 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles, 27 species of amphibians, and 38 species of fish.

Athirappilly Waterfalls, often dubbed the “Niagara of India,” is Kerala's largest waterfall, plunging from a height of 80 feet on the Chalakudy River. Located at the entrance to the Sholayar forest ranges, it's a treat for any nature lover.

• Spectacular Views: The thunderous spectacle of water surrounded by dense tropical greenery is mesmerizing.

• Biodiversity Hotspot: Part of the Sholayar rainforest range, it's home to endangered species like the Great Hornbill and Asian elephants. The Athirappilly-Vazhachal Forest Division shelters elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 250 bird species.

• Nearby Attractions: Just 5 km downstream, Vazhachal Waterfalls offers a quieter ambiance, and the Thumboormuzhi Dam and Butterfly Garden are also worth visiting.

• Adventure Activities: River safaris on the Chalakudy River and nature trails through rainforests are available.

Eravikulam National Park, a pristine sanctuary near Munnar, is Kerala's first national park and a crown jewel of the Western Ghats. It is primarily known for its conservation of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat species.

• Key Highlights: The park's high altitude (around 2,000 meters above sea level) offers panoramic views of rolling grasslands, rocky peaks, and mist-covered valleys. It is also home to Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India at 2,695 meters.

• Trekking: Visitors can undertake the Kurinji Trail, a soft trekking package through grasslands and Nilgiri Tahr habitats. Other trails lead to peaks like Raja Mala and Umaya Mala. Trekking in certain areas requires permits.

• Flora and Fauna: Beyond the Nilgiri Tahr, the park boasts diverse flora, including the Neelakurinji blooms that carpet the hills once every twelve years.

A Journey Through History and Culture: Forts, Palaces, and Heritage Sites

Beyond its natural splendor, the region near Kerala is steeped in history, bearing the imprints of various civilizations and colonial powers. Exploring these historical sites offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.

Colonial Echoes & Ancient Fortifications: Fort Kochi, Bekal, and Beyond

The strategic coastal location of Kerala and its neighboring areas made them crucial points on ancient trade routes, leading to a rich confluence of cultures and the construction of impressive fortifications.

Fort Kochi, unlike its name suggests, is not a typical colonial fort but a historic neighborhood in Kochi. It served as a very important and strategic harbor, holding powerful economic and political standing in the medieval era. The area has a rich amalgamation of Portuguese, Dutch, and British cultures due to colonial rule, and also shares a strong connection with China, whose traders introduced the iconic Chinese fishing nets in the 14th century.

• Portuguese Influence: The Portuguese arrived in the early 16th century and built landmarks like the St. Francis Church (1503), the oldest European church in India, where Vasco da Gama was initially buried.

• Dutch Legacy: The Dutch captured Fort Kochi in 1663, leaving behind colonial architecture, including the Mattancherry Palace (also known as the Dutch Palace), which is a fascinating museum of royal artifacts.

• British Era: The British took control in 1795, further shaping the town's architecture and making Kochi an important harbor and trade center.

• Key Attractions: Other significant sites include the Paradesi Synagogue (built in 1567), the Dutch Cemetery, and various colonial-era bungalows. Strolling through its old roads with tree-lined avenues and along the seashore, where Chinese fishing nets sketch a spectacular skyline, is a quintessential experience.

Bekal Fort, located in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in the state. This imposing structure, perched on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, is a magnificent example of coastal fort architecture.

• Historical Significance: Built by Shivappa Nayaka of the Keladi Nayaka dynasty in the mid-17th century to defend against invaders and protect the spice trade, it later came under the control of the Mysore Sultanate (Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan) before being captured by the British East India Company.

• Architectural Splendor: The fort spans over 40 acres and features a unique keyhole shape, designed to optimize defense capabilities. Its massive laterite stone walls rise up to 12 meters high, reinforced by strategically placed bastions that offer panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscape. The largest bastion houses a small observation tower, providing a commanding view of the Arabian Sea.

• Things to Do: Visitors can explore the fort's massive walls and gates, visit its water tank, magazine, and mosque, and learn about its history at the on-site museum. The adjacent Bekal Beach is known for its clean sands and clear waters.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Places Near Kerala

Planning a trip often involves many questions. Here, we address some common queries to help you make the most of your exploration beyond Kerala's immediate attractions.

What is the best time to explore destinations near Kerala?

The ideal time to explore the Best Places to Visit Near Kerala largely depends on the type of destination you prioritize:

• Hill Stations (Munnar, Wayanad): The winter months, from October to February, are exceedingly pleasant, with comfortable weather perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) brings lush greenery and mist, which can be beautiful, but some activities might be restricted due to heavy rains.

• Backwaters (Alleppey, Kumarakom): Similar to hill stations, the winter months (October to February/March) are best for enjoying houseboat cruises and birdwatching, offering moderate temperatures and breezy days.

• Beaches (Kovalam, Varkala): The winter season, from late October to early February, is excellent for visiting coastal areas, with moderate temperatures and breezy daytime conditions ideal for beach activities and water sports. The summer months (April to early June) can be very hot. Monsoons (July to September) enhance the beauty but may limit beach activities.

• Wilderness Retreats (Periyar, Athirappilly, Eravikulam): Periyar National Park is open all year, but the winter months (October to February) are considered the best time to visit due to pleasant weather. Summer (March to May) can be hot but is great for wildlife sightings. For Athirappilly Waterfalls, the monsoon season (June to October) showcases the falls in their full grandeur, while winter (October to February) offers a gentler flow and good opportunities for wildlife sightings. Eravikulam National Park is best visited from September to January and April to January, as it remains closed in February and March for the Nilgiri Tahr breeding season.

Are there suitable options for adventure tourism close to Kerala?

Absolutely! The regions surrounding Kerala are brimming with opportunities for adventure tourism. We can find a wide range of activities to get our adrenaline pumping:

• Trekking and Hiking:

  • Wayanad: Cheengeri Hills offer excellent trekking opportunities with wonderful sights of sunrise and sunset. Chembra Peak is a popular trekking destination, requiring permits and guides.

  • Munnar: Offers various trekking options like the Munnar Tea Trek, Letchmi Hills Trekking, and half-day hikes with waterfalls.

  • Eravikulam National Park: Provides trekking routes, including the Kurinji Trail, allowing us to explore grasslands and spot Nilgiri Tahrs. Trails to peaks like Anamudi and Raja Mala are also available.

  • Periyar National Park: Guided jungle treks are possible almost all day, and even late at night. Tiger trailing is also an exciting activity.

• Water Sports:

  • Kovalam Beach: Famous for thrilling water sports such as parasailing, surfing, jet skiing, paragliding, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

  • Varkala Beach: Offers surfing, parasailing, paragliding, and banana boat rides.

  • Banasura Sagar Dam (Wayanad): Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in water sports like speed boating, kayaking, and rowing.

• Wildlife Safaris:

  • Periyar National Park: Best known for boat safaris on Periyar Lake to observe elephants and other mammals.

  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga & Tholpetty): Offers jeep safaris to spot elephants, deer, gaur, and diverse birdlife.

  • Athirappilly Waterfalls: The surrounding Sholayar rainforest range offers nature trails and river safaris on the Chalakudy River to spot wildlife.

• Other Adventures:

  • Bamboo Rafting: Available in Periyar National Park.

  • Zip-lining: Can be found at places like Thumboormuzhi Dam near Athirappilly.

Conclusion: Unforgettable Experiences Await Beyond Kerala's Borders

As we have explored, the regions surrounding Kerala offer an extraordinary array of experiences that extend far beyond the conventional image of "God's Own Country." From the serene, mist-covered tea gardens of Munnar and the lush wilderness of Wayanad to the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom and the vibrant cliffside beaches of Varkala, each destination presents a unique charm. We've delved into the rich history embedded in the colonial echoes of Fort Kochi and the majestic ramparts of Bekal Fort, and encountered the raw beauty of nature at Periyar National Park, Athirappilly Waterfalls, and Eravikulam National Park.

These Best Places to Visit Near Kerala promise diverse landscapes, cultural immersion, and thrilling adventures, catering to every traveler's desire. Whether you seek peaceful introspection amidst nature, a deep dive into historical narratives, or an adrenaline-fueled escapade, the areas adjacent to Kerala are brimming with possibilities. We encourage you to venture forth and discover these hidden gems, creating your own unforgettable memories in this captivating corner of India.