Kerala Tourism | How to Plan a Trip to Kerala

Kerala in South India is so beautiful that it is titled ‘God’s Own Country.’ Flaunting exotic flora and fauna, the experience of bliss is what lures travelers from far ends of the world. From elegant houseboats, backwaters, and misty hills to spice, tea, and coffee plantations, pristine seashores, and Ayurvedic treatments, Kerala tourism is worth enjoying. While some travelers spend time at the tranquil beaches of Kovalam or Kozhikode, others prefer to walk around the beautiful hill stations like Munnar and Thekkady.

The capital of Kerala, Cochin (now Kochi), is soaked in ancient history and vibrant culture. Its colonial landmarks draw a lot of attention from tourists, and so do the bustling markets of Cochin. The backwaters of Kumarakom, Alappuzha, and Cochin witness a flow of visitors throughout the year. The houseboats on the palm-fringed backwaters offer solitude to honeymoon couples. Families with kids have a great time at the most famous attractions in Kerala. Moreover, you can get complete information about famous attractions, activities, and other important information with this comprehensive Kerala travel guide.

Apart from the typical tourist delights, Kerala is home to some of the most religious places in India. For example, the Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple in Kerala sees many devotees worldwide yearly. So, whatever your purpose might be - family vacation, honeymoon, adventure, or backpacking, tourism of Kerala has everything you are looking for!

Kerala Tourism

Tourism in Kerala gives you countless opportunities to connect with nature, culture, spirituality, thrill, and unique experiences. This state has plenty of tourist places that give you a delightful holiday experience. From lush green hill stations to endless views of oceans, Kerala tourism offers numerous things to see and experience that will stay in your heart forever. However, backwater tours, tea planations, hill stations, and culture are major aspects of tourism in Kerala.

Languages Spoken in Kerala

Malayalam is the official language of Kerala. Tamil, Tulu, Kannada, Hindi, and English are other spoken languages.

Where is Kerala located?

Kerala is located on the southwestern Malabar coast of India. It is located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats (Sahyadris). The neighboring states of Kerala are Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Why visit Kerala?

Kerala is a beautiful state with a network of lagoons and lakes interconnected by canals, rivers, and bays. The peaceful stretch of the backwaters of Kerala makes it worth a visit. You can explore Kerala's abundant wildlife, delectable cuisine, serene beaches, and quaint hill stations and enjoy its rich culture.

If you're a nature enthusiast, there are some of the best national parks in Kerala. The most famous is the Periyar National Park. The fact of the matter is the region’s pleasant monsoon and winter weather, scenic beauty, rolling valleys, and serene backwaters make Kerala one of the most popular destinations in India. Visit Kerala during monsoons to rejuvenate your mind and soul with Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala.

Facts About Kerala -

Here are some facts about Kerala that would inspire you to book your tickets to this state immediately!

• Kerala is called ‘God’s Own Country’ as it is a paradise. With hills, beaches, tea plantations, backwaters, greenery, and more, Kerala is blessed with abundant natural beauty and has something for everyone.
• You must have heard about the cleanest cities, but Kerala is India’s cleanest state, as per a survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO).
• The state is renowned worldwide for its Ayurvedic therapies, but did you know that “Somatheeram” is the world’s first Ayurvedic resort? Offering Ayurvedic treatments to all, it is located at Chowara Beach in Kovalam.
• Kerala has a lot of firsts. Along with Ayurvedic resorts, the state has India's first-ever church, mosque, and synagogue.
• While India is the world’s 4th largest rubber-producing country, Kerala is responsible for the production of 90% of India’s rubber.
• Kerala backwaters cover nearly half of the state’s length.
• The cuisine of Kerala is full of flavors and aromas, thanks to its spice production. That is why it is also called the ‘Spice Coast of India’.

Must Visit Places and Experiences In Kerala -

Beaches in Kerala

Popular beaches in Kerala are Varkala Beach, Marari Beach, Poovar Beach, Kovalam Beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, Kanwatheertha Beach, Ezhimala Beach, Cherai Beach, Beypore Beach, Bekal Beach, Kappad Beach, Kappil Beach, Tanur Beach, Thangassery Beach, Vallikunnu Beach. 

Hill Stations

Munnar, Idukki, Attappady, Pakshipathalam, Peerumedu, Palakkad, Silent Valley, Vagamon, Nelliyampathy, Ponmudi, Malampuzha, Devikulam, Wayanad are the famous hill stations. 

Backwaters of Kerala

Alleppey Backwaters, Kuttanad Backwater, Kumarakom Backwaters, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Kasargod Backwater, Kochi Backwaters, Kollam Backwaters, Kottayam Backwaters, Kozhikode Backwaters, Thiruvallam Backwaters are among the must-visit Kerala backwaters.

Wildlife in Kerala

Eravikulam National Park, Silent Valley National Park, Periyar National Park, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Periyar Tiger Reserve are recommended wildlife sites. 

Ayurveda in Kerala

Visit Kovalam, Kollam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Alappuzha, Kozhikode, Cochin, Malappuram, Thekkady, Varkala to experience the best of Ayurveda in Kerala. 

Pilgrimage in Kerala

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, and Cheraman Juma Masjid are renowned pilgrimage sites of Kerala. 

Waterfalls in Kerala

Adyanpara Waterfalls, Attukad Waterfalls, Kalakkayam Waterfalls, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls, Aruvikuzhy Waterfalls are the most visited waterfalls in Kerala. 

Historical Places

Mattancherry Palace, Bekal Fort, Jewish Synagogue, Krishnapuram Palace, Bolgatty Palace, Hill Palace Museum.

Adventure in Kerala

Trekking, Camping, Paragliding, Cycling & Biking, Rafting, and other water sports.

Shopping in Kerala

Spice Market, Connemara Market, Asparagus, Hindustan Spices and Herbals, Pulickatti Handicrafts, LuLu Mall, Center Square Mall are your go-to shopping places in Kerala.

Must-Try Foods in Kerala

Avial, Erissery, Kaalan, Koottu Curry, Olan, Parippu, Chiratta Puttu & CheruPayar, Kappa Puttu or Tapioca Puttu, Lamb with Tapioca Ularthiyathu.

How to Reach Kerala

Kerala has three airports, Trivandrum International Airport, Cochin International Airport, and Calicut International Airport. You can easily reach them from major parts of India and hire local transport to reach the desired location. Also, Kerala has 178 railway stations and is well-connected with major destinations like New Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai.

If you are coming by road, Kerala is well-connected via national highways such as NH 17, NH 47, and NH 49. These highways unite Kerala with other central states of India and are directly connected with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. In addition, you can hire KRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) bus service to reach Kerala.

How to get around Kerala

You can use taxis, cabs, state buses, motorbikes, cycles, and trains to travel to places in Kerala. Many trains operate between Kochi and Kozhikode, with beautiful coast views. Also, there are over 6,000 buses that move tourists throughout the state with many schedules and stopping points.

Best time to visit Kerala

Summers in Kerala are pretty hot and humid. However, the evenings are pleasant, and one can think of visiting Kerala in the summer. It is an excellent time to enjoy the beach and attend Thrissur Pooram Festival, which is also celebrated in late April or early May every year. Kerala receives heavy rainfall in the monsoon, enhancing the beauty of the whole state. It is also an excellent time for Ayurvedic treatments. It is advisable to visit Idukki, Kovalam, and Wayanad to experience lush greenery. Winter is the peak season in Kerala. It is ideal for planning a vacation, enjoying beautiful hill stations, and riding a houseboat on Kerala backwaters. The weather remains pleasant and allows you to enjoy tourist places in Kerala better.

Places to Visit in Kerala

The serene beaches, quaint hill stations, ayurvedic treatments, adventure activities, abundant flora and fauna, backwaters, and pilgrimage sites are great attributes of Kerala tourism. You can find plenty of tourist places in Kerala that you can enjoy with any vacation theme. Whether planning a honeymoon, family trip, or tour with friends, Kerala tourism has it all for you. There are a lot of places to visit in Kerala that we have listed below;

• Wayanad
• Munnar
• Alleppey
• Kovalam
• Cochin
• Thekkady
• Kumarakom
• Idukki
• Thrissur

Things to do in Kerala

Lush green slopes with unbeatable appeal lure travelers from near and far, as Kerala offers unending opportunities for adventure and relaxation. This beautiful state has no shortage of eventful things to do in Kerala. You will find whatever you want - relaxation, adventure, solace, and unique experiences in Kerala. Here is the list of must do activities in Kerala that will grace your holiday. 

• Visiting pilgrimage spots
• Relaxing at the beaches
• Indulging in water sports
• Rejuvenating mind and soul with yoga and meditation
• Witnessing rich wildlife
• Partaking in Kerala festivals

Accommodations in Kerala

There are numerous hotels and resorts in different categories and tariff plans. From luxury to cost-effective accommodation, you can get a place to stay in Kerala according to your preference. The amenities and delectable meals offered at hotels here are worth your stay.

What to Eat in Kerala

Foreign influence on Kerala’s cuisine can be seen through its variety of lip-smacking dishes. When in Kerala, here are some things to eat in Kerala - Puttu and kadala curry, Sadhya (served on Onam), Appam with stew, Karimeen pollichathu, Malabar Parotta with Kerala beef curry, and Palada payasam.

Festivals and Fairs in Kerala

The festivals and fairs of Kerala unite the state, removing all barriers and celebrating every moment with vigor and enthusiasm. Some of the famous festivals are Onam (Aug/Sep), Vishu (the first day of the Malayalam Calendar), Thrissur Pooram (April/May), Eid-ul-Fitr (Month of Shawwal - Muslim Calendar), Theyyam (Dec/Apr), Boat Race Festival (June/Sep).

Nightlife in Kerala

From luxury to cost-effective ones, Kerala has a lot of bars and lounges to chill till the wee hours of the night. Some of the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Kerala are Rex Bar in Hotel Aida, Hi-Spirits, Velocity Bar and Restaurant, Ava Lounge, and Oakwood Bar.

Is it safe to visit Kerala?

Yes, it is entirely safe for tourists to visit Kerala. Moreover, it is one of the safest destinations in India to travel to with family, friends, beloved ones, or as a group. So pack your bags and travel to Kerala to refresh your mind and soothe your eyes.

How to save money on a Kerala trip?

• Plan a visit to Kerala during the low season.
• Book your flights in advance and take an early or late flight.
• Travel through local buses and trains.
• Stay at budget places like hostels and eat in small restaurants.
• Explore off-the-beaten-track to save some pennies.
• Go on a backpacking tour.
• Avoid unnecessary shopping.
• Visit sites like museums, temples, etc., that are free of cost.

Kerala Travel Tips

• Be prepared for unpleasant beaches and flooding during the rainy season.
• Refrain from getting confused between similar sounding names. Most places have two names, like Alappuzha, also called Alleppey.
• You can ask the locals for help, and they are very friendly.
• To avoid traveling long hours after departure, pick your arrival airports wisely.
• If any important document gets stolen or lost, inform local police stations immediately. Your documents can be misused.
• Don’t wear revealing clothing in Kerala, especially at pilgrimage sites. Take off your shoes before entering the temples.
• English is spoken widely, and people only speak local languages in smaller areas. Learn local phrases.
• Go with a registered tour guide if needed. Local guides can charge you extra for inauthentic information.