Kerala, also known as “God’s Own Country,” is a state located in the south western region of India. It is famous for its stunning natural beauty, which encompasses a diverse range of landscapes such as serene backwaters, pristine beaches, rolling hills, lush green forests, and fertile plantations.
The backwaters, a network of canals, lagoons and lakes, dotted with houseboats and palm trees, provide a unique experience for visitors. The beaches of Kerala, like Kovalam and Varkala, offer peaceful surroundings and clear waters for swimming and sunbathing. The rolling hills of the Western Ghats, covered in tea and spice plantations, provide breathtaking views and opportunities for trekking and hiking. The lush forests of Kerala are home to an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys. Kerala’s diverse landscapes make it a true paradise for nature lovers and a must-visit destination in India.
Here are some of the best cities in Kerala to visit in 2023
1. Kochi
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a city located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is a popular tourist destination, and there are many reasons why one should visit Kochi:
Rich history and culture: Kochi has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its colonial architecture, old churches, and synagogues.
Backwaters: Kochi is famous for its scenic backwaters, which are a network of lagoons and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Visitors can take a boat tour of the backwaters, enjoy fishing, and relax in a traditional houseboat.
Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is a historic neighborhood in Kochi, known for its colonial-style architecture, narrow streets, and colonial-era buildings. Visitors can stroll along the Fort Kochi Beach and explore the St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India.
Local cuisine: Kochi is famous for its seafood and traditional dishes like “appam” and “stew.” Visitors can savor the flavors of local cuisine at one of the many street-side stalls or restaurants in the city.
Shopping: Kochi is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The city is famous for its “coir” products, made from coconut fiber, and “Kerala sarees,” made from hand-woven cotton.
2. Vagamon
Vagamon is a hill station located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. Here are some of the reasons why one should visit Vagamon:
Scenic beauty: Vagamon is surrounded by rolling hills, lush green forests, and tea gardens, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape from various viewpoints in the area.
Adventure activities: Vagamon offers various adventure activities such as paragliding, trekking, and rock climbing for the thrill-seekers. The hills and forests of Vagamon provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Peaceful surroundings: Vagamon is known for its tranquil and peaceful surroundings, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can take long walks in the hills, relax by the streams, or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
Spiritual significance: Vagamon is home to several spiritual centers, including Hindu temples and Christian churches. Visitors can learn about the rich cultural and religious heritage of the area and attend spiritual gatherings.
Local cuisine: Vagamon is famous for its traditional Kerala cuisine, which is characterized by the use of fresh spices, coconut milk, and aromatic herbs.
In conclusion, Vagamon is an ideal destination for those who are looking for a mix of adventure, spiritual significance, and peaceful surroundings. The scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage of the area make it a must-visit destination in Kerala.
3. Alleppey
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a city located in the southern state of Kerala, India. Here are some of the reasons why one should visit Alleppey:
Backwaters: Alleppey is renowned for its network of tranquil backwaters, consisting of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes that run along the Arabian Sea coast. Visitors can embark on a leisurely boat ride through the backwaters, take in the peaceful surroundings, and even fish or relax in a traditional houseboat. The backwaters of Alleppey offer a unique and serene experience, unlike any other.
Beaches: Alleppey is home to several beautiful beaches, including Marari Beach and Alleppey Beach. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and a range of water sports at these beaches.
Scenic beauty: Alleppey is surrounded by lush green rice paddies, coconut groves, and canals, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can take a walk through the rural landscape and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area.
Cultural heritage: Alleppey is known for its rich cultural heritage, reflected in its traditional festivals, such as the Snake Boat Race, and ancient temples, such as the Krishna Temple and the Ambalappuzha Temple.
Local cuisine: Alleppey is famous for its seafood and traditional dishes, such as “fish curry” and “prawn fry.” Visitors can savor the flavors of local cuisine at one of the many street-side stalls or restaurants in the city.
In conclusion, Alleppey is a must-visit destination for those who are interested in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local cuisine. The scenic backwaters and beautiful beaches make it a unique and unforgettable destination in Kerala.
4. Wayanad
Wayanad is a hill district located in the northern part of Kerala, India. Here are some of the reasons why one should visit Wayanad:
Scenic beauty: Wayanad is renowned for its rolling hills, lush green forests, and tea gardens. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape from various viewpoints in the area, including Chembra Peak, which is the tallest peak in Wayanad.
Adventure activities: Wayanad offers various adventure activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and wildlife safaris for thrill-seekers. The hills and forests of Wayanad provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wildlife: Wayanad is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is known for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and deer.
Cultural heritage: Wayanad is known for its rich cultural heritage, reflected in its traditional festivals, such as the “Pookalam” festival, and ancient caves, such as the Edakkal Caves, which are believed to be over 5000 years old.
Local cuisine: Wayanad is famous for its traditional dishes, such as “sambar” and “chutney.” Visitors can sample the delicious flavors of local cuisine at one of the many street-side stalls or restaurants in the area.
In conclusion, Wayanad is an ideal destination for those who are looking for a mix of scenic beauty, adventure, wildlife, and cultural heritage. The rolling hills, lush green forests, and diverse wildlife make it a unique and unforgettable destination in Kerala.
Varkala
Varkala is a coastal town located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, India. Here are some reasons why you should visit Varkala:
Stunning beaches: Varkala is renowned for its breathtaking cliff beaches, such as the Papanasam Beach, that offer panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports activities in the turquoise waters.
Relaxing atmosphere: Varkala is known for its relaxed atmosphere and peaceful environment, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Ayurvedic treatments: Varkala is famous for its Ayurvedic treatments and wellness centers that offer a variety of rejuvenating therapies and massages. Visitors can indulge in these traditional health practices and return home feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.
Cultural significance: Varkala is home to the 2000-year-old Janardhana Swamy Temple, which is considered one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.
Delicious cuisine: Varkala is known for its delicious seafood cuisine and local specialties, such as “kappa” and “meen curry,” which are popular with tourists and locals alike.
In conclusion, Varkala is an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of stunning beaches, a relaxing atmosphere, Ayurvedic treatments, cultural significance, and delicious cuisine. Its breathtaking cliff beaches, Ayurvedic treatments, and cultural heritage make it a unique and unforgettable destination in Kerala.
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