Nestled in the lush, tropical landscapes of southern India is Kerala. Nicknamed ‘God's Own Country’, this is a paradise of stunning beauty and biodiversity which boasts a wealth of natural wonders and unforgettable experiences. From exploring the rolling hills of Munnar and lounging on the pristine beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, to floating down the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, there's something for every kind of traveller here. Whether you're a nature lover, beach bum or adventure seeker, read on to discover six of the best things to do in Kerala.
- Explore the Backwaters of Kerala
- Discover the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Explore Fort Kochi
- Feel the Spray of the Athirappilly Falls
- Watch the Neelakurinji Bloom in Munnar
- Visit the Beaches of Kovalam and Varkala
Explore the Backwaters of Kerala
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a picturesque town on the backwaters of Kerala which is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the area’s serene beauty. Step aboard a shikara ride to tour the small villages and temples along the narrow canals and for the ultimate experience (and one of our all-time favourite things to do in Kerala) spend a night on a houseboat. As you drift through the evening, you’ll be able to enjoy the enchanting views of the lush greenery and watch as the sky slowly darkens and twinkling stars appear.
Discover the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Kerala is famous for its national parks and Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest in this state. Sprawling over a 300-square-mile area and fed by Periyar — Kerala’s longest river which drains into the park — it provides the perfect sanctuary for endangered and endemic flora and fauna. Explore deep into the rainforest on a Jeep tour and listen as your guide points out the wildlife around you. Keep an eye out for herds of deer, elephants, wild boars and even tigers that roam freely in the shadows.
Explore Fort Kochi
Known for its beautiful colonial-era architecture and rich history, Fort Kochi (a charming seaside area in the city of Kochi) is a must-see for anyone with a love of history. The fort was originally built by the Portuguese in 1503, and it soon became a trading post for spices and other goods coming from the Orient. Walk along the narrow cobblestone streets lined with colonial buildings with a cup of ‘Kappa’ coffee in hand (a brew which is distinct to this area); see Chinese fishing nets, which were made hundreds of years ago; and take a boat ride through the backwaters of Kochi while spotting local wildlife like water buffalo and peacocks.
Feel the Spray of the Athirappilly Falls
Known as the ‘Niagara of India’, Athirappilly Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in India which makes it a must-see on our list of the top things to do in Kerala. Cascading down from a height of around 80ft, the plunging water creates a mist that can be seen from far into the distance. Hike through the dense tropical forest that surround the falls and listen to the mighty roar of the water. Along the way, you may be able to spot some of the area’s bird species and animals, including the endangered lion-tailed macaque. Visit the falls during the monsoon season, when the water is at its fullest and the falls are at their most spectacular.
Watch the Neelakurinji Bloom in Munnar
Kerala is home to several hill stations, which were historically used as summer retreats by British colonisers. One such place is Munnar, a town in the Western Ghats that boasts stunning views of tea gardens and rolling hillsides. Anyone who loves their morning cuppa will find themselves in heaven here, with the town's tea plantations producing some of the best brews in India. Munnar is not only known for its picturesque tea plantations and stunning views, but also for its rare Neelakurinji flowers. These blue-purple flowers, which bloom once every 12 years, cover the hills in a beautiful blanket of blue, a truly magical sight.
Visit the Beaches of Kovalam and Varkala
Last, but not least on our list of the top things to do in Kerala is a relaxing beach day (mandatory on any coastal escape). And if you're looking to relax, soak up the sun and get stuck into your holiday reading, then you can’t do much better than the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala. With their miles of white sand lapped by clear blue waters, this is a true slice of paradise. Kovalam's crescent-shaped beach is a firm favourite for those looking to rent out paddleboats and explore the calm waters around the area while Varkala beach is known for its towering cliffs and natural mineral springs. If it's a more secluded experience that you're looking for, pack your sunscreen and get ready to feel your stresses melt away.