Kerala is titled ‘God’s Own Country’ and that is not without reason. Blessed by nature in every form, it is truly one of the known paradise on Earth. Imagine lush greenery, endless blues, golden beaches, roaring waterfalls, navigable network of waters, wildlife inhabited jungles and bliss of every kind. When the Gods themselves have favoured this land, then it is not quite easy to make a list of the most beautiful places in Kerala, as every corner of the state is blessed in its own way.
Here is our take on the most beautiful places to visit in Kerala.
Alleppey
Water as far as the eye can see, blue skies and lush coconut palms welcome to Alleppey. The backwaters of Alleppey is a heavenly beauty. The most well-known backwaters of Kerala, is named as the ‘Venice of the East’. Cruising along the serene backwaters is an absolutely divine experience and you actually feel like being ‘one with nature’.
Get aboard a traditional houseboat for the best experience of the backwaters. The view of the paddy fields, coconut groves, villages, lush greenery and distant coir factories is amazing. Bird watching and well-known Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race are the other attractions of the favoured tourist attraction in Kerala.
Wayanad
Wayanad fondly known as “Land of Paddy Fields” is one of the nature blessed destinations in Kerala. Perched at an altitude of 2100 m in the lush expanse of Western Ghats, the picturesque hill station appeals to nature lovers, adventure aficionados, wildlife enthusiasts and people in love with the mountains. Spot waterfalls like Soochippara and Lakkidi. The ancient Edakkal caves dating to pre-historic era are perfect for trekking and mountain expeditions. Escape the cities and soak in the bliss of aromatic spice plantations, eco-friendly resorts and natural bliss.
Munnar
One of the most beautiful places on Earth, Munnar is blessed by the Gods themselves. The landscape of rolling hills is dotted with lush tea gardens. Mists and clouds descend on the mountain peaks and sometimes on the roads. The waterfalls are truly spectacular like the lakes are. Just like a beautiful melody, Munnar makes its places into the hearts of all those who visit.
Pay a visit to the Tata Tea Museum, Naimakkadu, Lakkam and Atukkad Waterfalls, Theni valley, Devikulam to fall in love with its beauty. Munnar is your absolute favourite when planning a honeymoon tour in Kerala.
Athirappilly Waterfalls Area
Inspiring awe among all those who have been in its presence, Athirapally waterfalls are a proof of nature’s magnificence. Do not miss to visit Athirappilly when you plan your tour to Kerala. The largest waterfall in Kerala, standing at 80 feet formed by the Chalakudy River originating in Anamudi Peak is also named as the ‘Niagara of India’.
In a 10-15 minutes light trek get to the bottom of waterfall. Enjoy the spray of water, spot rainbows, or take a dip. The area surrounding the waterfalls is a bio-diverse hotspot with 85 species of fresh water fish, lion-tailed macaque, Malabar pied and grey hornbill, tiger, Asiatic elephant, sambar, etc.
Vagamon Forests
Untouched by humans, Vagamon forests is one of the most beautiful places in Kerala. Set at a height of 1100 m, the forests of Vagamon are a spread of lofty pine trees that overlook the edge of a cliff. Free of crowds, the forests are really out of the world. Winds blowing through the trees, call of birds and the green world is pleasing to all your senses. The tourist spots to check out include Ayyampara, Five Rocks, Poonjar Palace, Murugan Mala, Thangal Para and the Illikal Peak. Do not miss to give Tandem paragliding a try.
Kovalam Beach View
Kovalam in Malayalam means ‘Grove of Coconuts’. Located on the golden shores along the Arabian Sea, it is one of the most beautiful beach locales in India. One of the most picturesque places in Kerala, the quaint town is one of the must visit places for holiday. Golden silky sands invite people. The Lighthouse guides the seafarers. Waves crashing the rocks create a soothing melody. You can dine or have a drink right on the beach. Get a pampering Ayurveda massage while watching the cerulean waters.
Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National Park is one of most the popular destinations in Kerala visited. The beautiful reserve for wildlife is home to the largest population of Nilgiri Tahr, including several species of rare animals, birds and butterflies. Most importantly, the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once in 12 years are found in Eravikulam. The endemic species of mountain flowers of the Western Ghats bloom nowhere else in the world. Witness the spectacle of nature for only 4 months which will occur in 2018 from August to October.
Calicut a.k.a. Kozhikode
Kozhikode is a scenic beach town in Kerala. It is known for the place where Vasco Da Gama first arrived to India, the town has a significant place in the history of not just Kerala but also India. The town on the Malabar Coast is known for its wealth of spices. Equally of note are its lesser known beautiful beaches. Walk on the sandy shoreline watching the beauty of the Arabian Sea, soak in the charming view at sunset, watch the busy fishermen’s’ lives, snack on the fresh supply of seafood, or have a relaxing vacation.
Bekal
Bounded by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Bekal is a natural haven. If you want to take a break from crowds, sightseeing and want a relaxing holiday in Kerala, then this is where you should be. The most important landmarks to not miss are Bekal beach and the Bekal Fort. The eye-pleasing views are truly a beauty that make it worth visiting. Family vacations, honeymoon or a solo escapade, Bekal is one of the best places for vacation in Kerala.
Silent Valley
A true spectacle on nature untouched by humans next on our list of naturally blessed destinations in Kerala bring us to Silent Valley, reserve of tropical rainforests. Located in Palakkad, it is a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, an integral part of the Western Ghats. It was named a National Park only in 1984 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.
The ecosystem of Silent Valley is one that dates back to the very beginning of time. Spot over 1000 species of flowering plants, 110 species of orchids, over 400 species of moths, 200 species of butterflies and 50 species of wildlife. The 128 species of beetles deserve a special mention.
