Traveling to Kerala is a lifetime experience. It is a state that lies in the southern part of the Indian peninsula. A picturesque country known in other words as “God’s Own country”. With its lush landscape, calm backwaters, and rich cultural heritage Kerala is a famous destination among Indians as much as for foreigners. Perfect place for a honeymoon or a relaxing nature getaway.
In this article, I will guide you through some of the most memorable destinations I encountered from Fort Kochi, Munnar tea plantations, Kumarakom backwaters, Spice plantations, Elephant sanctuaries, Trissur Cultural heritage, and other destinations of this Indian gem.
When to Go to Kerala
The winter season between September to March is recommended as the best time to visit Kerala. The weather is very pleasant and it’s easy to move around. June to August is the rainy season and while it’s supposed to come with heavy rainfall I must say that during my trip from mid to end of August I had pretty much perfect sunny weather all 7 days I was in Kerala.
How to Get to Kerala
First things first, it’s important to note how to navigate around Kerala. Kerala has a couple of international airports such as Chochin, Kannur, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode. The most popular is Chochin International Airport with flights connecting to Europe and the Middle East.
If Kerala is one stop on your trip to India, getting a domestic flight from Delhi or other locations is also a good option. I booked a return flight to Delhi as it was cheaper from Japan and then took a domestic flight to Chochin.
Getting Around Kerala
Now, for moving around Kerala you do need to plan for a lesser public transportation versus Delhi. If you are jumping between various locations getting an experienced driver who can take you around is the best solution. Depending on the season, heavy rainfall can damage the roads and a trusty Indian driver will know best how to move around. Plus, the driver can give you the best tips on where to go and what to see as this is what they regularly do for Indian and foreign travelers to Kerala.
Within Kochi busses and subways are available and very affordable. However, my favorite part of traveling around the city are rikshaw. Rikshaws are available on Uber so make sure you download the app and Uber around the city. Uber is the most comfortable way to travel around.
Finally, let’s see where you should go.
Kochi 2 Days: Where West and East Merge at Fort Kochi
Kochi is the largest city in Kerala known for its Western history and bustling Eastern culture. Known as a trading port as one of the first European colonies in India. For centuries numerous European explorers reached the shores of India here. You will experience this history by visiting Fort Kochi.
What to do and see in Kochi, Kerala?
Fort Kochi is a historical neighborhood along the port known for its colonial past. The narrow streets of Fort Kochi are lined up with colonial-era architecture blending with the Indian culture.
I recommend getting there by boat. The boat ride it’s a stunning experience on its own particularly during sunset. And as you arrive make sure you aim to reach Chinese Fishing Nets exactly at the sunset. The sight of nets gliding on the wind, fishermen, and local street vendors surrounding it is memorable.
Fort Kochi is the place where Vasco De Gama, the Portuguese explorer died during his third visit to Kerala. Buried in a church you can visit at Fort Kochi, named St. Francis Church.
If Kearala is your first stop in India, it’s a great place to start your journey in India, stocking up with necessities before you go further. An easy place to do that is Lu Lu Mall at the center of the city where we spent lots of time buying beautiful kurtas for our Kerala trip.
2 Days in Kumarakom: Relax at beautiful Lake Resort and Enjoy Backwaters Houseboats
From Kochi we journied to Kumarakom. Kumarakom is a restful village located along the Vembanad lake. It’s known for its stunning resorts and backwaters experiences.
What to do and see in Kumarakom?
When mentioned to my Indian colleagues and friends I traveled to Kerala first thing they asked me was “Backwaters of Kumarakom”. It’s a must experience to dedicate half day or a stayover.
There are usually two ways to experience the Backwaters of Kumarakom. As a day trip with a lunch, breakfast, or dinner or as an overnight package. I would recommend either. If you decide to go overnight, the houseboats are in pretty good shape with an AC, toilets, and a kitchen at your disposal.
We took a day trip with a lunch included for around 1400 rupees per person. The ride was around 3 hours and the experience is something I can still remember anytime I close my eyes.
Backwaters are calm but refreshing and as you drift around through the maze of waterways you are surrounded by abundant nature, rare birdlife, and friendly locals. We also had an amazing Kerala meal cooked for us onboard with freshly caught local fish and Kerala rice.
For the second day, I would recommend staying and enjoying one of the beautiful resorts around the lake. The one I stayed at and You can see in the picture is Gokulam Grand Kumarakom. You can get an ayurvedic massage, take a yoga class, sunset boat ride, or experience the many other activities the resort offers.
2 Days in Munnar: A Place Within Clouds, Spice Gardens, Tea Plantations, Tea Factories and More
Leaving Lakeside, we continued our trip to Munnar. With a local driver, it took us approximately 4 hours to reach Munnar. Trip to the mountains can be jiggly so I would recommend taking pills if you have motion sickness. A good one my Indian friend got is called “Vomit Stop”.
Mountains are covered with green tea plantations and hills stretching wherever your eye can see. One of my favorite things as you drive up the mountain you will see numerous farmlands and cows peacefully grazing the land.
What to do and see in Munnar?
Spice Plantations: In the highlands of Kerala you can find guided tours of spice plantations. We came across one on our way from Kumarakom to Munnar. For around 100 rupees we got an interactive tour around the garden and were introduced to the long history of medical herbs and plants in Kerala. The guide was able to refer us to herbs that heal various physical concerns.
Tea Plantations: You can’t miss a tea plantation going up the mountain but there are those available for tourists to explore and adventure around. We were recommended by our driver, however, hotel staff will be able to guide you as well. Tea plantations are a perfect spot for memorable pictures.
Team Museum in Munnar: We visited the Harrison Malayalam Limited factory. One of the oldest factories in South East India, over 150 years old. Factory tour and tea tasting is around 400 rupees for foreigners and takes 1 to 2 hours. You will get to learn about how tea is made end to end, and what good quality tea means. You can taste it and buy it if you would like in their shop at the end of the tour.
Punarjani Traditional Village where you will be able to experience traditional folklore dance is another must-stop to experience local culture.
The Anakkulam Wild Elephant Village Tour is a great experience for elephant lovers. The wildlife jeep tour is pretty If you need to have enough time. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, I didn’t get to visit it this time but stays at the top of my list if I ever find myself in Munnar again.
1 Day in Thrissur: Experience the Cultural capital of Kerala
Thrissur has a history deeply rooted in the spice trade. Today it is known as the capital of the state and a cultural center.
What do and see in Thrissur?
Rent a local house Airbnb to experience the lifestyle of South Indians. My big recommendation is Pazuvil. The estate was 150 years old with a beautiful back garden placed next to the river you can reach in the backyard. The family was kind enough to cook us a nice breakfast and we spent the night enjoying the open skies in the central area of the house.
Explore the Vadakkunnathan Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva at the city center of Thrissur. If you are lucky to be in the time for the Pooram festival do visit it as it’s said to be one of the best experiences in Thrissur.
Other Hidden Gems and Alternatives to visit in Kerala if you are staying a bit longer
Varkala: Beachside town in India known for the Papanasam Beach believed to have holy waters. Near is also the ancient Janardanaswamy temple, a Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Vishnu.
Wayand: For adventure seekers, Wayad offers more rugged terrains and lush forests. Perfect for tracking, wildlife spotting, and exploring ancient caves.
Alappuzha: For more boat experience, beaches, and tranquil waters Alappuzha is another backwater destination in Kerala. If you miss Kumarakom, this is your alternative for a great houseboat experience.
In conclusion, Kerala just blew my mind. Land of ancient traditions, breathtaking nature, healthy foods, and mixed history. From the historic streets of Kochi to the wildlife of Munnar, the calm waters of Kumarakom, the history of Thrissur Kerala is a perfect one-week to 10-day trip in India. Don’t rush it if you can, stay as long as you can afford it. “God’s Own Country” is worth it. It will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.