Kerala, also known as “God’s Own Country,” is a true jewel thanks to its verdant landscapes, tranquil backwaters, breathtaking coastlines, and rich cultural heritage. Kerala offers a varied and captivating array of experiences that cater to every traveller’s desires. You can experience peaceful houseboat rides through the intricate network of backwaters, to the therapeutic Ayurvedic treatments. 🚣
8 Things to Do in Kerala 🌴
Kerala is a beautiful and fascinating place to visit, and every traveller is here to enjoy something or the other. There are many places to visit, and below are some of the things to do in Kerala:
1. Watch Nature’s Paradise at Munnar
If you have heard about the Neelakurinji flower, you will know what a true nature’s paradise the place can be where it grows. Munnar’s most unique feature, the rare Neelakurinji flower, blooms once every twelve years, turning the hills a vibrant blue. The next bloom is expected in 2030.
Munnar is a beautiful hill station, located 1,600 meters above sea level, where three mountain streams-Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala-meet. The town is known for its vast tea plantations, scenic landscapes, winding roads, and excellent holiday amenities. Munnar is also home to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India at 2,695 meters.
A major attraction near Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park, renowned for being home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
- Entry – For adults, the entry fee is Rs. 125; for children, the entry fee is Rs. 95.
- Timings – The national park is open between 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. every day.
2. Enjoy Rafting in One of the Rivers
If you want a unique and adventurous experience, go to Wayanad for river rafting. You can enjoy the attractiveness of the calm river on a bamboo raft that the locals traditionally craft. The bamboo used is also grown in the forests behind this place. Besides Wayanad, there are other places where you can go for river rafting, such as the Kabini River or the Periyar River.
The Periyar River is one of the best places to experience bamboo rafting. If you and your partner are seeking adventure, this is the perfect activity. Picture yourselves gliding along the river, surrounded by diverse wildlife and lush vegetation-it’s a wonderful way to enjoy each other’s company amidst nature. If you are an adventure lover, you can go for whitewater river rafting at Kannur or Chalipuzha.
- Entry – The cost of the bamboo rafting varies depending on the location. The cost of the half-day bamboo-rafting trip on Periyar River is INR 2000 per person and INR 2800 per person for full-day experience.
- Timings – It is preferable to go rafting early in the morning or afternoon.
3. Go for a Tea Estate Walk 🚶♂️
Munnar is famous for its unmatched beauty and tea plantations. It is a hill station in Kerala known for its beautiful landscapes and numerous tea estates. Enjoying a nature walk in one of the magnificent tea gardens in Munnar is an experience.
You can even enjoy the tea cultivation process by plucking and tasting the tea, just like the experts. There is also a tea museum that is a must-visit place to learn everything about the famous beverage, tea. However, do remember to take ample time to enjoy this activity, as it may take 3-4 hours to complete the tour.
4. Enjoy a Houseboat Stay in the Backwaters
It is one of the most famous things to do in Kerala – houseboats stay in the backwaters. You cannot plan a better way of enjoying your holiday than spending at least one night on the houseboats. It is a lifetime experience of taking a tour of some of the famous areas of Kerala while enjoying a beautiful stay at one of the houseboats.
You can find houseboats at Alleppey backwaters that are known for giving a relaxing experience to their travellers. You can enjoy the beautiful backwaters and sunset, all while staying on the river.
- Entry – The cost of a houseboat will depend on the company that you choose.
- Timings – If you go for a night stay, it starts from 12:00 p.m. – 09:00 a.m. However, if you only plan to book it for a day tour, the timings will be from 11:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m.
5. Take a Stroll in the Woods
Kerala is a beautiful place with natural beauty in abundance. You can stroll in the woods if you do not feel like doing anything. There are many national parks, peaks, and mountains where you can enjoy the breathtaking view on your stroll.
You can explore Silent Valley National Park, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Shendurney, Eravikulam National Park, Nilambur – Nedumkayam, and Chembra Peak, to name a few. You can even enrol in one of the programs offered by the Kerala Forest Department .
- Entry – It may depend on which national park you plan to visit.
- Timings – The timings will also depend on where you intend to visit.
6. Relax with Yoga and Meditation 🧘♀️
If there is one thing that Kerala is known for besides the backwaters, it is the emphasis on yoga and meditation facilities. Due to its breathtaking location, Kerala is a famous place for indulging in Ayurvedic healing, meditation, and yoga by travellers.
In Kerala, you can still experience yoga in its classical form, where the focus goes beyond physical fitness to encompass spiritual awakening. Yoga is often paired with Ayurveda, the ancient healing system, offering a holistic experience that cleanses both the body and the mind.
At the same time, many yoga centres in Kerala also embrace modern styles of yoga popular across the globe, particularly emphasising “asanas” or postures that strengthen and improve flexibility, especially for the spine. Tourists visiting Kerala can enjoy learning these techniques, combining tradition with modern wellness in a truly unique way.
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7. Go for a Picnic at the Veli Tourist Village
Veli Tourist Village is located on the River Veli and is one of the things to do in Kerala. This place offers many activities to its travellers, such as pedal and speedboats, horse riding, a children’s park, and a swimming pool. It is a perfect place to spend the entire day with your family.
You can even book boat rides or buy souvenirs from the shopping complex in the tourist village. You can even spot various birds, fish, swans, and tortoises on the banks of the River Veli. There is also a floating cafe, run by the Kerala Department of Corporation, which will give you an experience.
- Entry – There is an entry fee of Rs. 5 per person.
- Timings – It is open daily from 08:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m.
8. Go for Kayaking in Kannur
Kayaking is an excellent water sport to enjoy the rivers and the scenic beauty. You can go kayaking in Dharmadam in Kannur, where you can find salty but clean water. Also, you can enjoy the boat ride through the mangrove forest, which is a breathtaking experience in itself. Travellers also enjoy the experience more with some spectacular views of the backwaters at the adjacent.
Plan your Kerala Trip now! 🚂
Kerala is an experience that stays in the heart and soul long after the travels. You can experience the essence of this fantastic land, whether you indulge in the delectable flavours of Kerala cuisine, revel in the serene backwaters, or immerse yourself in the rich traditions and art forms. Kerala is a treasure trove of memories just waiting to be gathered by everyone who visits, with its wonderful blend of nature, culture, and friendliness.
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