bigtravelbuzzKerala, located in the southwest of India, is known for its palm-lined beaches, tranquil backwaters, serene hill stations, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some travel tips to help you plan a trip to Kerala:
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Kerala is between September to March when the weather is pleasant.
- Experience the backwaters: Kerala is famous for its tranquil backwaters, and a trip to Kerala is incomplete without experiencing a houseboat ride on the backwaters. Alleppey and Kumarakom are popular destinations for houseboat rides.
- Visit hill stations: Kerala has several scenic hill stations like Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady. These destinations offer a refreshing change from the tropical weather and stunning views of the Western Ghats.
- Try local cuisine: Kerala is known for its flavorful cuisine, with coconut being a predominant ingredient in most dishes. Don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes like Appam, Puttu, and Kerala-style fish curry.
- Explore beaches: Kerala has some beautiful beaches like Kovalam, Varkala, and Marari, known for their picturesque views and serene surroundings.
- Witness cultural performances: Kerala has a rich cultural heritage, and several art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Theyyam are unique to the state. Attend a performance to experience the vibrant culture of Kerala.
- Visit historical sites: Kerala has several historical landmarks, including forts, palaces, and temples. The Mattancherry Palace, Bekal Fort, and the Jewish Synagogue are some popular attractions.
- Shop for souvenirs: Kerala is known for its handicrafts, including coir products, traditional jewelry, and spices. Shop at local markets and co-operative societies for authentic souvenirs.
By following these travel tips, you can plan a memorable trip to Kerala and experience its unique culture and natural beauty.
Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala, located in the southwest of India, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, tranquil backwaters, serene hill stations, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kerala:
- Munnar: Munnar is a scenic hill station known for its tea plantations, misty hills, and scenic views. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Alleppey: Alleppey is famous for its tranquil backwaters, and a houseboat ride in Alleppey is a must-do activity. The backwaters are also home to several species of birds and provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Kovalam: Kovalam is a picturesque beach town known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and laid-back vibe. It’s a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.
- Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage, featuring several landmarks like the Mattancherry Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, and the St. Francis Church.
- Wayanad: Wayanad is a scenic hill station located in the Western Ghats, known for its picturesque views, dense forests, and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Thekkady: Thekkady is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, with the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary being the main attraction. Visitors can take a boat ride in the Periyar Lake and spot animals like elephants, tigers, and bison.
- Varkala: Varkala is a laid-back beach town known for its stunning views, tranquil beaches, and picturesque cliff-top views. It’s a popular destination for backpackers and solo travelers.
- Thrissur: Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of Kerala, and visitors can witness the vibrant culture of Kerala through traditional art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Koodiyattam.
- Marari: Marari is a tranquil beach town located near Alleppey, known for its pristine beaches and picturesque views. It’s a great destination for a relaxing beach vacation.
By visiting these top places in Kerala, you can experience the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique charm of this beautiful state.
Things to Do in Kerala
Kerala, located in the southwest of India, is known for its tranquil backwaters, serene hill stations, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top things to do in Kerala:
- Experience a houseboat ride: Kerala is famous for its tranquil backwaters, and a houseboat ride is a must-do activity. Alleppey and Kumarakom are popular destinations for a houseboat ride.
- Visit a spice plantation: Kerala is known for its spice plantations, and visitors can take a tour to experience the aromas and flavors of the state’s spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
- Watch a Kathakali performance: Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala, known for its colorful costumes and intricate makeup. Watching a Kathakali performance is a unique cultural experience.
- Explore hill stations: Kerala has several scenic hill stations like Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady, offering a refreshing change from the tropical weather and stunning views of the Western Ghats.
- Enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic massage: Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic massages, which use natural herbs and oils to promote relaxation and wellness. Visitors can enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage at one of the many wellness centers in Kerala.
- Try local cuisine: Kerala is known for its flavorful cuisine, with coconut being a predominant ingredient in most dishes. Don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes like Appam, Puttu, and Kerala-style fish curry.
- Witness a Theyyam performance: Theyyam is a traditional dance form of Kerala’s Malabar region, known for its vibrant costumes and intense performances. Watching a Theyyam performance is a unique cultural experience.
- Visit a wildlife sanctuary: Kerala has several wildlife sanctuaries like the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Silent Valley National Park, offering a chance to spot animals like elephants, tigers, and birds.
- Enjoy a beach vacation: Kerala has some beautiful beaches like Kovalam, Varkala, and Marari, known for their picturesque views and serene surroundings.
By doing these things in Kerala, you can experience the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique charm of this beautiful state.
How to Get Around in Kerala
Kerala is a popular tourist destination in India and has a well-developed transportation system, making it easy for travelers to get around. Here are some of the ways to get around in Kerala:
- By Taxi/Cab: Taxis and cabs are easily available in Kerala, and they are a convenient way to get around, especially if you are traveling in a group. Many taxi operators offer different types of cabs, including luxury cars and SUVs, and the prices are usually negotiable.
- By Auto-rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transportation in Kerala, especially for short distances. They are inexpensive and can be hailed from the streets or found at designated stands.
- By Bus: Kerala has an extensive network of buses, both government and private, that connect most towns and cities. It’s a cheap and reliable way to travel around Kerala, and you can choose from different types of buses, including air-conditioned buses, luxury buses, and regular buses.
- By Train: Kerala has a well-connected railway network, and trains are a convenient way to travel between major cities and towns. There are several classes of trains, including local, express, and super-fast trains.
- By Motorcycle/Scooter: Renting a motorcycle or scooter is a popular way to get around in Kerala, especially in hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad. It’s a great way to explore the scenic beauty of the state, and rental services are available in most tourist destinations.
- By Boat: Kerala is famous for its tranquil backwaters, and traveling by boat is a unique way to explore the state’s waterways. You can rent a houseboat or take a ferry to visit places like Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam.
By using these transportation options, you can easily get around Kerala and explore its many tourist attractions.
Where to eat in Kerala
Kerala has a unique and flavorful cuisine that is known for its use of coconut, spices, and seafood. Here are some places to eat in Kerala:
- Saravana Bhavan, Kochi: A popular chain of vegetarian restaurants that serves South Indian cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and vadas.
- Paragon Restaurant, Kozhikode: A popular seafood restaurant that is known for its delicious Malabar cuisine, including biryani and fish curry.
- Curry Leaf, Trivandrum: A popular restaurant that serves traditional Kerala cuisine, including seafood, vegetarian dishes, and meat dishes.
- Malabar Palace, Thrissur: A restaurant that serves authentic Malabar cuisine, including biryani, fish curry, and meat dishes.
- Indian Coffee House, Thiruvananthapuram: A popular chain of coffee houses that serves traditional South Indian snacks, coffee, and tea.
- Dhe Puttu, Kochi: A restaurant that specializes in Puttu, a traditional breakfast dish made from steamed rice flour and coconut.
- Grand Hotel, Cochin: A historic hotel that serves traditional Kerala cuisine, including seafood, meat dishes, and vegetarian options.
- Kayees, Kozhikode: A popular restaurant that serves traditional Malabar cuisine, including biryani, kebabs, and meat dishes.
- The Rice Boat, Kumarakom: A restaurant that offers a unique dining experience on a traditional houseboat, serving seafood and Kerala cuisine.
By trying these places to eat in Kerala, you can experience the delicious and diverse flavors of Kerala cuisine.
Famous street stalls in Kerala
Kerala is known for its delicious street food, and there are many famous street stalls that offer a wide variety of snacks and dishes. Here are some famous street stalls in Kerala:
- Gokul Oottupura, Thiruvananthapuram: A popular vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious dosas, idlis, and other South Indian snacks.
- Calicut Paragon, Kozhikode: A popular seafood restaurant that also offers a range of street food options, including shawarmas, kebabs, and falafels.
- Sree Muruga Café, Kozhikode: A famous eatery that serves delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian snacks, including vada, bonda, and samosas.
- Bombay Hotel, Thiruvananthapuram: A popular street food joint that offers a range of delicious chaat, dosas, and other snacks.
- Shafi’s Biryani, Kozhikode: A famous biryani stall that serves a range of delicious biryanis, including chicken, mutton, and beef.
- Tato Café, Kochi: A popular café that serves a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian snacks, including rolls, sandwiches, and burgers.
- Hotel Rahmath, Thiruvananthapuram: A famous eatery that serves delicious non-vegetarian snacks, including kebabs, shawarmas, and falafels.
- Kethel’s Chicken, Kozhikode: A famous street food joint that serves delicious fried chicken, including chicken drumsticks, wings, and nuggets.
- Dhe Puttu, Kochi: A famous street food stall that specializes in Puttu, a traditional breakfast dish made from steamed rice flour and coconut.
By visiting these famous street stalls in Kerala, you can experience the delicious and diverse street food culture of the state.
Where to stay in Kerala
Luxury accommodation
Kerala offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts and villas. Here are some luxury accommodation options in Kerala:
- Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom: A luxury resort that offers stunning views of Lake Vembanad, with traditional Kerala-style cottages, private pools, and world-class amenities.
- Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Kochi: A luxury resort that is located on Willingdon Island and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, with modern amenities and world-class service.
- Leela Kovalam, Kovalam: A luxury resort that is located on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, with stunning views, private beaches, and world-class amenities.
- Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam: A luxury beach resort that is located on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, with traditional Keralan-style cottages, private beaches, and world-class amenities.
- Brunton Boatyard, Kochi: A luxury hotel that is located on the historic Cochin Harbour, with stunning views, a private jetty, and world-class amenities.
- Marari Beach Resort, Mararikulam: A luxury beach resort that is located on a pristine beach, with traditional Kerala-style villas, private pools, and world-class amenities.
- Zuri Kumarakom, Kumarakom: A luxury resort that is located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, with modern amenities, private pools, and world-class service.
By staying at these luxury accommodation options in Kerala, you can experience the state’s natural beauty, unique culture, and warm hospitality in comfort and style.
Budget accommodation
Kerala has a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options, including homestays, guesthouses, and hostels. Here are some budget accommodation options in Kerala:
- Artpackers.life Hostel, Fort Kochi: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory and private rooms, with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a common kitchen.
- Zostel Alleppey, Alleppey: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory and private rooms, with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a common kitchen.
- Vedanta Wake Up, Kochi: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory and private rooms, with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a common kitchen.
- The Lost Hostel, Munnar: A budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory and private rooms, with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a common kitchen.
- Xandari Harbour, Fort Kochi: A budget-friendly homestay that offers cozy and comfortable rooms, with free Wi-Fi and breakfast, and is located in a quiet residential area.
- Malabar Escapes, Marari Beach: A budget-friendly homestay that offers traditional Kerala-style rooms, with free Wi-Fi and breakfast, and is located on a pristine beach.
- Coffee Routes, Wayanad: A budget-friendly homestay that offers cozy and comfortable rooms, with free Wi-Fi and breakfast, and is located in a picturesque coffee plantation.
By staying at these budget-friendly accommodation options in Kerala, you can enjoy a comfortable and affordable stay while exploring the state’s natural beauty, unique culture, and warm hospitality.
Travel Tips Kerala
Here are some travel tips for visiting Kerala:
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Kerala is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon season from June to September is also a good time to visit if you don’t mind the rain.
- Language: Malayalam is the main language spoken in Kerala, but most people also speak English. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Malayalam to help you communicate with the locals.
- Currency: The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). You can exchange currency at banks or exchange bureaus, or withdraw cash from ATMs. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions.
- Food: Kerala is famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes a lot of seafood, coconut, and spices. Try some of the local specialties like appam and stew, fish curry, and puttu and kadala curry. Be sure to also try some of the local street food and snacks.
- Transportation: Kerala has a well-developed transportation network, including buses, trains, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. It’s also easy to rent a car or a bike if you want to explore on your own. Be prepared for traffic in major cities and on popular tourist routes.
- Dress code: Kerala is a conservative state, so it’s a good idea to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing.
- Safety: Kerala is a safe state for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions like keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings. If you’re traveling alone, avoid walking in isolated areas at night.
By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kerala and experience the state’s natural beauty, unique culture, and warm hospitality.