Kerala is a state in South India that is known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity and rich heritage. Kerala is often called “God’s Own Country” because of its scenic landscapes, serene backwaters, lush forests and exotic wildlife. Kerala is also famous for its ayurvedic treatments, spicy cuisine, classical art forms and colorful festivals. Kerala is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors every year from India and abroad. Here are some of the things you can do and see in Kerala:
- Explore the backwaters: The backwaters are a network of canals, lagoons, lakes and rivers that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. The backwaters offer a unique way to experience the rural life and culture of Kerala. You can cruise along the backwaters on a traditional houseboat or a motorboat and enjoy the views of coconut groves, paddy fields, fishing villages and temples. Some of the best places to visit the backwaters are Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam and Kochi.
- Visit the beaches: Kerala has some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in India. The beaches are ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, swimming and surfing. You can also witness the sunset and sunrise over the sea and enjoy the fresh seafood and coconut water. Some of the most popular beaches in Kerala are Kovalam, Varkala, Marari, Cherai and Bekal.
- Experience the hill stations: Kerala has some of the most picturesque and cool hill stations in India. The hill stations are famous for their tea, coffee and spice plantations, misty valleys, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries. You can also indulge in trekking, camping, boating and birdwatching in the hill stations. Some of the best hill stations in Kerala are Munnar, Wayanad, Thekkady, Vagamon and Ponmudi.
- Witness the festivals: Kerala is a land of festivals that celebrate the religious, cultural and seasonal diversity of the state. The festivals are marked by colorful processions, rituals, dances, music and fireworks. Some of the most famous festivals in Kerala are Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, Theyyam, Makaravilakku and Attukal Pongala.
- Enjoy the art forms: Kerala has a rich tradition of classical and folk art forms that showcase the history, mythology and spirituality of the state. The art forms are performed by skilled artists who wear elaborate costumes, makeup and ornaments. Some of the most renowned art forms in Kerala are Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, Thiruvathira and Ottamthullal.
- Here are some of the best places to visit in Kerala:
- Munnar: Munnar is a hill station in the Western Ghats that is famous for its tea plantations, misty valleys, waterfalls and wildlife. You can enjoy trekking, camping, boating and birdwatching in Munnar. You can also visit the Eravikulam National Park, the Mattupetty Dam, the Echo Point and the Tea Museum.
- Alleppey: Alleppey is the hub of the backwaters, a network of canals, lagoons, lakes and rivers that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. The backwaters offer a unique way to experience the rural life and culture of Kerala. You can cruise along the backwaters on a traditional houseboat or a motorboat and enjoy the views of coconut groves, paddy fields, fishing villages and temples.
- Kochi: Kochi is a port city that is a blend of history, culture and modernity. Kochi has many attractions such as the Fort Kochi area, where you can see the Chinese fishing nets, the St Francis Church, the Santa Cruz Basilica and the Jewish Synagogue. You can also visit the Mattancherry Palace, the Hill Palace Museum, the Bolgatty Palace and the Marine Drive.
- Thekkady: Thekkady is home to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the largest and most popular wildlife sanctuaries in India. The reserve has a variety of animals such as elephants, tigers, gaurs, sambars, langurs and more. You can take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake or go for a jungle safari or a bamboo rafting adventure.
- Varkala: Varkala is a coastal town that has a stunning beach with cliffs and mineral springs. Varkala is also a pilgrimage center for Hindus, as it has the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt. You can relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, indulge in ayurvedic massages or visit the nearby Anjengo Fort and Lighthouse.
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