Some places draw us for their natural beauty, while others have rich history and heritage as a tourist lure. And then there are places like Kerala where you not only witness nature in a sublime form, but also meet an eventful past and some of the most enticing traditions you’ve ever come across. And this is not it! Sumptuous cuisines, healing Ayurvedic treatments, friendly people and salubrious weather are other elements a holiday in Kerala is made of.
No wonder, the Indian state is billed as the God’s Own Country, and see millions of tourists landing on its tropical soul every year.
Want to know more about Kerala? We bet you’ll love it, more so when digging it dipper.
Well, Kerala is India’s southernmost state, and perhaps the most serenely beautiful place across the subcontinent.
From an almost 600km of glorious Arabian Sea coast boasting captivating beaches to a languid network of glistening backwaters , the spice- and tea-covered hills of the Western Ghats to wildlife-rich national parks- this slender coastal strip can be well defined by its layered landscape. The historical cities like Cochin and Trivandrum will impress you to the core with their architectural grandeur and warm hospitality.
Now with so much to explore, you may wonder where and how to go to see the best of this beautiful Indian state. How much time is enough for a perfect Kerala holiday?
To help you there, we bring this mini travel guide you can follow.
It can accommodate anyone- be it families, couples, friends’ group, and solo traveler – looking to enjoy the best of Kerala in 8 days.
Day: 1 Cochin
Known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”, Cochin is one of Asia’s finest natural harbours. Its cosmopolitan culture with a secular and varied community is just mind-boggling, especially for the first-timers. And so is serene scenery and ecological richness the surrounding region harbours.
As it enjoys easy connectivity to all major tourist destinations in Kerala, Cochin remains a key gateway to the state. It is in the district of Ernakulam, roughly 220 kilometers north of the Thiruvananthapuram.
Top Tourist Attractions in Cochin- St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Net, Spice Plantations & Markets, Kathakali Dance Shows, and Jewish Synagogue
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Day: 2-3 Munnar
About 130 km from Kochi is this breathtakingly beautiful hill station, popular mong honeymooners and nature lovers alike. With sprawling tea plantations, pristine valleys, and lush mountains as far as your eyes can see, you’ll be left bewildered about what to capture as your memories of a Munnar trip.
Today, start your day early to drive to Munnar from Cochin.
The confluence of the three mountain river systems mudrapuzha, Nallathani, Kundala power Munnar and its neighbourhood with sparkling lakes, mountainous streams, wooded valleys and wavy green hills – everything for a sight to behold. Don’t rush to cover all the attractions. Rather enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility this place oozes every inch. Spend at least 2 days here.
Top Attractions in Munnar: Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake, Echo Station & Point, Kanan Devan Tea Museum
Must-read for You- Kerala Holiday: How to Explore The Best of God’s Own Country!
Day: 4 Kumarakom
From palm-fringed backwaters and murky hills to lush green forests and inimitable wildlife, Kumarakom is nature’s most favourite playground. A cluster of small islands on the Vembanad Lake, it is benevolently blessed with natural bounties. Guests will have a whale of a time exploring its backwaters through a traditional boathouse.
Kayaking the surrounding lakes and wheeling the wildlife sanctuaries will add to your memories in this marvellous location. The locals are really warm, and will help you learn a thing or two about their intriguing culture.
Top Tourist Attractions in Kumarakom- Kumarakom Backwaters, Vembanad Lake, and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Day: 5 Wayanad
Wayanad is loved for its ecologicaly diversity and rich cultural heritage. The land of paddy fields- that’s what Wayanad literally means- has blossoming nature and enthralling ambiance, enriched by a huge variety of flora & fauna. Nature lovers can admire plantation crops including coffee, tea, pepper, cardamom and rubber, characterizing the region’s high altitude, or choose to trek through the nearby jungles to enjoy the region’s rich biodiversity.
Top Tourist Attractions in Wayanad- Ambukuthy Hills, Edakkal Caves, Thirunelly Temple, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nagarhole and Bandipur National Park.
Day: 6 Kovalam (About 7okms from Cochin)
Kovalam is famous for a spectacular sunset and picture-perfect beaches. The star attraction here is the golden-sand Lighthouse Beach, which offers something delightful for all. You can relax on the sandy shore, or indulge in thrilling water sports such as swimming, surfing, parasailing, jet skiing and paragliding. You should also plan a half day tour to explore the nearby lakes, rivers and backwaters.
Top Tourist Attractions in Kovalam- Lighthouse Beach, Hawa beach, Karamana River, Vellayani Lake, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple, and Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple.
Day: 7 Trivandrum
The capital of Kerala awaits you with a pleasing urban charm, mingled with natural and cultural bounties. This morning, arrive in Trivandrum and spend the day at leisure. One must-visit place in the city is Padmanabhaswamy Temple, with its exquisite fusion of Keralite and Dravidian cultures. Later, do rejuvenate yourself with healing Ayurveda treatment at the popular Ayushmanbhava Ayurvedic Centre or at your hotel/resort.
Day: 8 Say Bye to Kerala
We recommend you book your return flights from Trivandrum. Considering your flight timings, head to the airport to board your flights back home.
Now you can enjoy your holiday to India or anywhere else with easy payment plans. You can opt for Fly Now Pay Later UK with LycaFly, and spread your travel cost across easy installments.
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