Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Kerala

1. Munnar: Known for its lush tea plantations, Munnar offers breathtaking landscapes, cool climate, and opportunities for trekking and wildlife spotting.

Accommodation: Look for tea estate stays or boutique resorts like Windermere Estate or Devonshire Greens.

Tours/Activities: Explore the tea gardens, visit Eravikulam National Park, and take a spice plantation tour.

Dining: Try local Kerala cuisine at Saravana Bhavan or Rapsy Restaurant.

2.Alleppey (Alappuzha): Famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises, Alleppey provides a serene and unique experience of Kerala's waterways.

Accommodation: Stay on a traditional houseboat or opt for a lakeside resort like Punnamada Resort.

Tours/Activities: Enjoy a backwater cruise, visit Alappuzha Beach, and explore the Alappuzha Lighthouse.

Dining: Sample seafood at restaurants like Cassia or Thaff Delicacy.

3.Kochi (Cochin): A historic port city with a blend of cultures, Kochi boasts colonial architecture, cultural festivals, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets.

Accommodation: Choose heritage hotels like Forte Kochi or boutique accommodations in the Fort Kochi area.

Tours/Activities: Explore Mattancherry Palace, the Indo-Portuguese Museum, and take a Kathakali dance performance.

Dining: Try local seafood at Oceanos Restaurant or enjoy a coffee at Kashi Art Cafe.

4.Thekkady: Home to Periyar National Park, Thekkady offers wildlife safaris, spice plantations, and a chance to see elephants and other animals.

Accommodation: Consider stays near Periyar National Park like Spice Village or Cardamom County.

Tours/Activities: Take a wildlife safari in Periyar National Park and enjoy bamboo rafting on Periyar Lake.

Dining: Enjoy Kerala cuisine at Periyar Café or Bar-B-Que.

5.Kovalam: Known for its beautiful beaches, Kovalam is a popular spot for relaxation, water sports, and Ayurvedic treatments.

Accommodation: Opt for beachfront resorts like Vivanta by Taj or The Leela Kovalam Beach.

Tours/Activities: Relax on Kovalam Beach, indulge in water sports, and explore Vellayani Lake.

Dining: Try seafood at Bait or enjoy Indian cuisine at Curry Leaf.

6.Wayanad: A nature lover's paradise, Wayanad features lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries, perfect for trekking and nature exploration.

Accommodation: Consider staying at resorts like Vythiri Resort or Wayanad Wild. Homestays and treehouses are also popular options.

Tours/Activities: Explore Chembra Peak, visit Edakkal Caves, and take a bamboo rafting experience on Kuruva Island.

Dining: Try traditional Kerala meals at Jubilee Restaurant or enjoy organic dishes at ClayHut Village Restaurant.

7.Varkala: With its stunning cliffside views and beaches, Varkala is a laid-back coastal town known for its spiritual and wellness retreats.

Accommodation: Choose beachfront resorts like The Gateway Hotel or Akhil Beach Resort for stunning views.

Tours/Activities: Relax on Varkala Beach, explore the Janardanaswamy Temple, and take a boat ride on Kappil Lake.

Dining: Enjoy seafood at Café del Mar or try international cuisine at Abba Restaurant.

8.Fort Kochi: This historic area in Kochi is filled with charming streets, Dutch and Portuguese architecture, art galleries, and local markets.

Accommodation: Consider heritage stays like Forte Kochi or boutique hotels in the Fort Kochi area.

Tours/Activities: Visit St. Francis Church, explore the Dutch Palace, and take a stroll along the Fort Kochi Beach.

Dining: Try fusion dishes at Tibetan Chefs Restaurant or savor local flavors at Kashi Art Café.

9.Poovar: A tranquil escape, Poovar offers backwater cruises, golden beaches, and a chance to explore its pristine natural beauty.

Accommodation: Opt for beach resorts like Estuary Island Resort or Poovar Island Resort for a serene experience.

Tours/Activities: Explore the Poovar Backwaters, visit the Poovar Beach, and take a boat ride through the mangroves

Dining: Enjoy seafood at Floating Restaurant or try traditional Kerala cuisine at River Restaurant.

10.Kumarakom: Set around the beautiful Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is another backwater destination known for its bird sanctuary and relaxing ambiance.

Accommodation: Stay at backwater resorts like Kumarakom Lake Resort or Coconut Lagoon for an immersive experience.

Tours/Activities: Explore Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, take a backwater cruise, and enjoy a houseboat stay on Vembanad Lake.

Dining: Savor Kerala cuisine at the Ettukettu Restaurant or indulge in a lakeside meal at Taj Kumarakom.