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Kerala issues revised guidelines for international travellers: Details here

The Kerala government on Friday, February 4 announced new guidelines for those travelling to the state from abroad amid the current COVID-19 situation with the Omicron variant that is prevalent. The guidelines stated that all international travellers coming to Kerala will undergo symptom surveillance once they arrive irrespective of duration of stay in the state. If any traveller is found to be symptomatic, they will be required to take an RT-PCR test. Following this, the guidelines state that further action has to be taken by the travellers based on the result of the test. The guidelines also state that the cost for the RT-PCR test for the travellers will be borne by them.

Additionally, a random test of 2% of international travellers from each flight will be conducted. The selection of the passengers to undergo the test will be done by the airline officers. For this, however, the passengers will not have to pay any money and the RT-PCR test will be done at the state’s expense. The guidelines came after the COVID-19 expert group provided recommendations to the government. 

The guidelines also stated that it is advisable for international travellers to remain in home quarantine for seven days and monitor their health. In case they develop any COVID-19 symptoms, the guideline states that they need to undergo a COVID-19 test. Further, the travellers need to follow COVID-19 appropriate behaviour during their stay and are also advised to “avoid attending congregation, closed space gatherings and other crowded places”.

All the RT-PCR test samples collected from international travellers will be sent for genome sequencing, the guidelines stated. The travellers are also advised to take a Rapid Antigen Test on the eighth day of arrival into the state for their own safety.

Kerala on Friday recorded 38,684 fresh infections which raised the total caseload to 62,11,116. The southern state had reported 42,677 COVID-19 cases on Thursday. Kerala on Friday also reported 595 deaths which raised the total fatalities in Kerala to 57,296, according to a government release.

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Dark tourism: Why some people derive voyeuristic pleasure from visiting places where tragedies occurred

In the wake of the wayanad landslide tragedy in kerala this year, we try to understand the psychology behind why dark tourism is becoming increasingly popular..

P icture a town frozen in time, its streets eerily quiet, nature slowly reclaiming abandoned buildings. No, that was not the description of a post-apocalyptic film set but of Pripyat, a ghost town near Chernobyl. Believe it or not, before the Russia-Ukraine war brought travel to a complete halt, tourists would flock there by the thousands each year.

Welcome to the world of “dark tourism” or “thanatourism,” where natural disaster sites and scenes of historic horrors become unlikely travel destinations .  From the killing fields of Cambodia to the 9/11 Memorial in New York, these sites draw visitors like moths to a flame — or perhaps more aptly, like pilgrims to a shrine.

D K Ghatani, travel consultant at Sikkim Tours and Expeditions, tells indianexpress.com , “Dark tourism — a term coined in the 1990s — involves visiting places associated with death, tragedy, or suffering.”

“Human beings have a natural curiosity about death and tragedy,” Dr Alisha Lalljee, psychologist, special educator and psychotherapist based in Mumbai , reveals. She notes that visiting such sites may fulfill a need to understand tragic events that occurred there. For some, such visits could also be something to boast about.

But what is the appeal? Is it morbid curiosity, a quest for understanding, or something deeper?

The recent Wayanad tragedy, where a series of landslides took the lives of over 400 people, shed light on this controversial yet fascinating aspect of modern travel. After noticing several tourists visiting the spot days after news about the tragedy made headlines, the Kerala Police were forced to release a statement on X urging people not to visit the disaster-stricken area. “Do not head to tragedy-hit spots for sightseeing. It will affect rescue operations. For help, please call 112,” the statement read.

The intent behind these visits , which could include sites like former concentration camps, battlefields, natural disaster zones, or locations of historical atrocities,  varies. Some people are driven by a desire to understand history, pay their respects, or confront the realities of human nature. For others, it may stem from curiosity or the thrill of exploring the macabre.

Jatinder Paul Singh, CEO and co-founder of Viacation, reveals that over the years, he has observed how people approach these sites. “Visitors now come not simply to witness events from afar but to reflect on the personal stories and human experiences behind the tragedies.”

The emotional and psychological impacts dark tourism

Malika Chandra, psychotherapist at MC Psychotherapy, believes dark tourism, despite its heavy emotional impact, may have some positive outcomes. “We are reminded of our mortality, and it brings us in touch with our empathy,” she says. However, the impact can vary greatly depending on the individual’s personal history, emotional resilience, and the nature of the site itself.

Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist at Mindtalk, however, notes that the emotional impact “varies depending on the individual’s personal connection to the event and their mental state.” For some, these visits can lead to feelings of reverence and reflection, while others may experience discomfort or distress.

Frequent exposure to tragic narratives can lead to emotional exhaustion or desensitisation. As Dr Lalljee explains, repeated visits to sites of intense suffering can trigger re-traumatisation and worsen mental health if not approached with caution. This makes it crucial for frequent dark tourists to engage in self-reflection and seek support if needed.

Respect vs. thrill-seeking: What is the fine line?

A central challenge in dark tourism is distinguishing between respectful visits and those driven by morbid curiosity. Psychologists note that the line between these motivations can be blurry and often depends on the visitor’s approach and mindset.

Aanandita Vaghani, founder and mental health therapist, UnFix Your Feelings, points out that the distinction can be subtle, with respectful visits sometimes overlapping with elements of learning and exploration. “The key difference is in the underlying motivation and emotional engagement of the visitor,” she says.

There’s no straightforward answer to whether dark tourism is ethical, according to Vaghani. “Some view dark tourism as voyeuristic and exploitative of human suffering, while others see it as an opportunity for education, engaging with history and reflection,” she said.

“Ethical considerations play a crucial role here; it’s essential for visitors to approach these sites with respect and mindfulness of the pain and loss they represent,” Cadabam stresses.

Tourism industry experts emphasise the importance of site management in shaping visitor behaviour. “Commercialisation should be handled cautiously to prevent diminishing the gravity of the events,” says Singh. The focus should remain on education, reflection, and fostering understanding.

Sensitivity to the emotional weight of the site is vital, ensuring visitors grasp the human suffering behind the history while preserving the site’s dignity and cultural integrity. Well-designed memorials and educational programs can encourage a respectful atmosphere, while sensationalised presentations may attract those seeking a more voyeuristic experience.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Auschwitz Memorial and Museum (@auschwitzmemorial)

Best practices in dark tourism management

Effective management of dark tourism sites is essential to balance education and respect. Ghatani advocates for incorporating firsthand accounts and survivor testimonies to provide authentic, accurate narratives. “This approach not only adds credibility but also connects visitors more deeply with the human aspect of the history,” he says.

Singh stresses the importance of using guided tours, multimedia, and curated exhibits to ground the stories in accurate historical facts and encourage reflection, rather than just observation. “By grounding the stories in accurate historical facts, these practices help visitors appreciate the depth of human suffering and leave with a sense of responsibility and respect for the past.”

Sensitivity to the emotional weight of the site is vital, ensuring visitors grasp the human suffering behind the history, while also preserving the site’s dignity and cultural integrity. Well-designed memorials and educational programs can encourage a respectful atmosphere, while sensationalised presentations may attract those seeking a more voyeuristic experience.

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Stree 2 has become the highest-grossing Hindi film of all time in India, surpassing the lifetime collection of Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan. The horror-comedy, released on 15 August, has earned Rs 586 crore domestically and is still running in cinemas. The makers, Maddock Films, thanked fans for creating history with the film and claimed it has earned Rs 798.75 crore worldwide.

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Check out the best Rameshwaram itinerary !

The Best Kerala Itinerary for 7 Days or More

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

In this post, I’ll share with you the best road trip itinerary for Kerala based on my experience of travelling to the state again and again in the last 6 years.

Kerala is a culturally rich, liberal, and breathtakingly beautiful state of southern India. It's vastly different from the northern side of India both in landscape and cuisine. So, planning what to do here on a limited time can be overwhelming.

I will help with your Kerala trip planning with an itinerary for Kerala for 7 days with ideas to modify it for longer or even shorter durations.

If you already have a basic knowledge about the state, then jump to the Kerala itinerary .

I' ve tried to cover all bases in the post to help you plan a trip to Kerala . Expand the table of contents below and jump to the relevant section if you want to.

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

The Best 1-week Kerala Itinerary at a glance

While you can tweak as per your liking after reading the full article, this is the plan I recommend for your first vacation in Kerala.

Day 1: Reach Kochi via train or flight and then hire a cab (or rent a self-drive car) for your Kerala trip. Explore Kochi and end the day with a Kathakali performance.

Day 2: Drive to Alleppey or Kumarakom and stay in a houseboat. It's time to rejuvenate in luxury after the hectic sightseeing at Kochi.

Day 3 & 4: Drive to Munnar on day 3 and explore the exceptional beauty of nature. You will need to stay at-least 2 nights in this resplendent hill station.

Day 5: Drive to Thekkady for wildlife safari and to witness the Kalarypayattu performance.

Day 6: Drive to Kovalam for some luxury experiences, much needed after the hectic sightseeing in the hills

Day 7: Drive to Trivandrum for exploring the historic charms and shopping before you depart.

In a 10-day Kerala itinerary you can include a day-trip to the Athirapally waterfalls from Kochi. From Thekkady you can drive to Varkala – an offbeat coastal paradise.

From Varkala you can easily visit the Jatayu Earth center – a new landmark in Kerala. Then drive to Kovalam the next day and depart from Trivandrum on the 10th day.

You can go slightly off-the-beaten track even in a packed 7-day Kerala tour. Skip the wildlife experience in Thekkady for a day trip to Athirapally waterfall. Or stay near the Varkala beach instead of Kovalam.

First time in Kerala? I recommend booking Kerala tour with Sangine Holidays . You can ask them to customise based on your preferences.

2 Weeks Itinerary for Kerala Roadtrip

Most of the tourist destinations and international airports are concentrated in the southern part of Kerala. So, most of the shorter Kerala tours are also designed to explore the south. Entire northern half of Kerala is therefore left out in my 7 and 10-day itinerary above.

If you can plan 2 weeks in Kerala , you could see how the culture and cuisine transform as we move from north Kerala towards the south, even in this rather tiny state.

Northern Kerala towards the Karnataka border has a strong Arabic influence in their culture, architecture and cuisine. Here you're more likely to get the best type of non-vegetarian dishes like Keralite biryani, chicken curry etc.

As you move towards the south you notice a distinct change. Towards the hills in the south there is a dominant influence of Hinduism. You'll find a plethora of pure vegetarian restaurants serving Appam-ishtew, idli, iddiyappam etc . 

On the coastline, there is a larger European influence in the monuments but also a blend of old Hindu culture as seen in the attire and performances. So, here's how I'd plan a longer itinerary of Kerala for 2 weeks .

Day 1: Take a train or overnight bus to Kasargod from Bangalore or anywhere else.

Day 2: Explore Bekal Fort , beaches and backwaters of Kasargod

Day 3: Drive (or take a bus) to Sultan Bathery in Wayanad . Take a wildlife safari there

Day 4: Visit Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagara Dam in Wayanad

Day 5: Trek to Chembra Peak in the morning. Have a brunch and drive to Palakkad

Day 6: Explore Palakkad – Palakkad Fort, Malampuzha Dam and Hanuman Temple

Day 7: Drive to Kochi via Athirapally falls

Day 8: Exploring Kochi

Day 9: Drive 126 km to Alleppey and take a houseboat tour

Day 10: Explore Alleppey and drive to Munnar

Day 11: Exploring the best of Munnar and Chinnakanal

Day 12: Skip Thekkady and drive to Varkala

Day 13: Take a memorable day trip to Munroe Island

Day 14: Explore Varkala and drive to Kovalam

Day 15: Drive to Trivandrum for departure

🙋‍♀️Want to custom-design your Kerala itinerary and have some questions? Join the awesome Backpack & Explore Facebook community – a safe place to discuss all your queries and concerns about traveling in India

A quick note on name of the places

Because of the colonial history of India, many popular destinations have an anglicized name that were coined by the European colonizers. The names have been reversed to their original form post indepedence.

However, because of the complex pronunciation, people unofficially refer to them by their anglicized names. So, before you get confused by these names, here is a short lexicon of Kerala's cities for you.

• Cochin is the anglicized name for Kochi (which is not at all difficult to pronounce)
• Calicut is the anglicized name of Kozhikhode (pronounced as “koh-ree-kode”)
• Trivandrum, the capital of the state of Kerala is the anglicized name of Thiruvananthapuram (a proper tongue-twister challenge for foreigners)
• Alleppey is the anglicized name of Alappuzha , city in the namesake district

One Week in Kerala – The Plan in Details

So, let's dive deeper into the wilderness of Kerala and take a virtual tour that will make you fall in love with the state.

Day 1 in Kerala – Arrive at the Historic Kochi

Kochi is the unofficial tourism and cultural capital of Kerala. It has a well-connected railway station as well as an international airport. So, this is a great place to start your trip.

As soon as you arrive, bargain the rates for a local cab. Normally the rates start from Rs. 12/km for lower-end 4-seater cars, and the fares would go up for the type of car, number of seats, travel season, night rates etc.

You can check the rates here to have a fair idea of the current rates and avoid being scammed.

Kochi is a bustling modern city haunted by a long, intriguing history. It's the place believed to be Vasco da Gama's passage to India .

Then there's the oldest Jewish quarters in India that you can find in Kochi, the Pardesi Synagogue standing as a tall testimony to the thousand years of religious tolerance in India.

There are the Dutch Palace , Portuguese churches as well as remnants of the Bristish colonialism. And thriving despite centuries of brutal invasions and colonial atrocities are the age-old pagan art forms that you can witness through dance performances, artefacts in the markets and music.

Kochi's beauty lies not in its architectural grandeur but in the unique stories behind the buildings, the streets and corners.

Kochi Sightseeing Plan

Assuming you reached Kochi at around 10 am, you can drive directly to Mattancherry Palace . The Mattancherry Palace also known as the Dutch Palace was actually a monument gifted by the Portuguese to the Indian raja. It was later extended and renovated by the Dutch in 17th century.

After a tour of the palace, enjoy a walking tour of the Jew Town and visit the Pardesi Synagogue .

Then drive back to Fort Kochi . There are some amazing places here for having a delicious lunch.

I have created a map here for a walking tour of Kochi.

The best way to explore Kochi in one or two days is with a local tour guide. Check our my recommendations below.

🌟A guided walking tour of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry with a local

🌟A private tuktuk tour with hotel pickup. This is suitable for people of all ages and small families

Stay near Fort Kochi , so that you can easily walk to the beach to see the photogenic Chinese fishing nets in the evening during the golden hour. Then return to Fort Kochi for dinner and an enthralling Kathakali dance performance in the Kerala Kathakali Center. It is one of the eight classical dance forms in India and also one of the most difficult dance forms in the world.

Best places to Stay in Kochi

Hotel Marine Inn – A 5-star luxury hotel located at the Marine Drive, in close proximity to Kochi's highlights Casino Hotel – CGH church – A sustainable 5-star luxury property located midway between Marine Drive and the Dutch Palace. In the mid-range and budget category, Fort Bridge View hotel located in Fort Kochi is the perfect place.

Check out other options and get best prices below.

Day 2 – Relax in the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarkom

After an exhausting, yet fulfilling day exploring Kochi, it's time to relax in the backwaters of Kerala. Today we will drive 55km to Alleppey, often touted as the Venice of India .

But before that we can wake up early and walk to the beach to catch a glimpse of the sunrise and explore the morning markets.

After a wholesome breakfast at hotel, we set out for Alleppey or Kumarakom. They are on two sides of the Vembanad lake – the largest natural lake in India.

You can either stay in a houseboat or in a hotel on the banks of Vembanad lake . 

A day in Alleppey

Assuming that you started from Kochi at around 10 am you will reach comfortably by 11:30 am. Kochi is a bustling city with heavy traffic, so we need to account for that time.

Take a boat-ride for 3-6 hours to explore the beauty of canals, watch the birds enjoying the sun and the blossoms of the lake, and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

While on your boat or Shikara, visit the Pathiramanal island to say “hi” to the thousands of birds that flock into the magical backwaters during winter.

Stop midway at a village, to relish on sea-food prepared with fresh catch of the day mixed with Kerala's spices. If you book a houseboat for stay you can have a traditional fish-meal for lunch in the boat itself.

On our trip, we stayed in a lakeside cottage and hired a shikara for maneuvering through the narrow canals and have lunch at one of the villages on the lakeside.

After the soulful trip, take some rest in the afternoon to avoid the scorching sun. Then drive to explore the beaches, churches and temples of Alleppey.

Next visit the Alleppey lighthouse, Alleppey beach and the loveliest Marari beach at sunset.

Once again, a paid trip will help you optimize your short time in Alleppey. These are the best-rated tours.

🌟 A 6-hour private Shikara cruise through the canals and lakes of Alleppey

🌟 There's a popular 2-day houseboat trip from Kochi to Alleppey to explore the backwaters of Alleppey and then return to Kochi Port.

Best places to Stay in Alleppey

Lemontree Vembanad Resort

☑️Affordable luxury ☑️Houseboat and Cottages

A 4-star luxury hotel on the banks of Vembanad lake, with options to stay in houseboat as well as lake-view cottages. You can read my full review here

Xandari Riverscapes

☑️Organised houseboat tours

A fleet of luxurious houseboats floating in the backwaters of Kerala.

Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey

While I haven't stayed here, I have always been impressed by the hospitality at Sterling properties in India. They are great options for affordable luxury accommodations .

Day 3 in Kerala trip plan: Drive to Munnar

Munnar is one of my favorite places in India. I think it is the best hill station in south India which despite the hype, manages to leave you awestruck at its raw natural beauty.

Speckled with waterfalls, adorned by lush green tea gardens, and pine forests, and surrounded by lofty hills, Munnar does seem like God's own country.

While most people stick to places near the Munnar town, the outskirts, especially the Chinnakanal region is breathtaking.

On Day 3, you have to drive about 180 km from Alleppey to reach Munnar. While driving you will bid goodbye to the coastal warmth and move higher towards the hills.

As you enter the serpentine roads of the Western Ghats , turn off the AC and wind down the windows of your car.

The temperature has suddenly dropped, and the scenery has completely changed within a 4-hour drive. Watch out for the scenic viewpoints at every turn.

Try not to stop everywhere you want to, lest you get late, or the driver gets annoyed.

Don't have a fixed itinerary for the day. Rather just stop and absorb the beauty around you wherever you can.

I highly recommend staying away from the city center and close to some tea garden. Keep an eye for the numerous waterfalls as well while driving to your hotel.

Best places to Stay in Munnar

Sterling Munnar

☑️Family Activities ☑️Best Location

Located in Chinnakanal area right opposite to the Tata Tea Garden, this is where we stayed on our second trip to Munnar. A perfect place to stay on a family vacation, with great activities for kids as well as the elderly.

Elephant Passage Resort

☑️5-star luxury ☑️Great Views

Located 25km from city center, this is the most affordable 5-star luxury you can get in Munnar. There's jacuzzi rooms, infinity pool and great views of nature.

Day 4 – Exploring Munnar

After a fulfilling brunch at hotel or outside, you can set off for a long exhausting tour of Munnar. One day may not be enough, but here's an itinerary covering the most memorable places in Munnar.

Drive to Eravikulam National Park right after breakfast. You need to set aside at least 2-3 hours for the trip, because of the long queue for tickets, the safari bus-ride and exploring on foot.

The beauty of this sensitive Nilgiri-biosphere is awe-inspiring. You will lose the idea of time while exploring the waterfalls and spotting the Niligiri tahr (an endangered species of animal found here) while walking in the forest. 

After this, head to Kanan Devan hills for a tour of the Tea factory

Then drive to Mattupetty Dam . If it is too crowded (which likely it will be), then drive to Kundala lake for a boat ride. 

And then, skip Top Station and save yourself some time for the other spectacles.

Similarly, if you want to watch the elephants, Carmelagiri is a touristy location where you can ride on them. But a more offbeat place for Elephant sighting is the Anayirangal Park (aka the Elephant Abode) in Chinnakanal . For more such tips and detailed guidance on your Munnar trip, check out my Munnar itinerary .

Like any other hill stations, most places close by 5pm. Stop at the Lockhart viewpoint on your way back to the hotel.

Shall I tell you a secret?

Skip the tea factory tours in Munnar and instead head to Kolukkumalai in the early morning.

Technically it's in Tamil Nadu state, but Chinnakanal is the closest getway to this hidden paradise on earth which also has one of the world's oldest and higest tea-factory .

Take a tea factory tour here instead after a bumpy jeep-ride.

Day 5 – Thrilling Thekkady

Thekkady is situated only 90 km away from Munnar, but it can take about 2.5 – 3 hours to reach because of the hair-pin belts. It is the home to Periyar National Park, the abode of Royal Bengal tigers among many other stealthy predators.

It's also significant for religious pilgrims as this is where the trek to the Ayappa Temple of Sabrimala begins.

Make sure you stay close to the Periyar National Park which is the center of all the activities in Thekkady itinerary.

Thekkady Sightseeing Plan

Assuming you started from Munnar at 9-9:30, it will be almost noon by the time your reach Thekkady.

Head to the reception of the Periyar National Park and get the brochure for all activities they offer and their timings

First you can go on a jeep ride through the tea and spice plantations. It will also take you to Ottakathalamedu, a hill-top from where you cans see magnificent panoramic views.

Then, after a quick lunch it will be time for the unmissable Periyar Lake Cruise . You will see a host of migratory birds in the lake, deer and antelopes on the banks, and, if lucky, you have a chance to spot elephants here too. 

Spend the evening shopping in Kumily and then head on to Mudra Cultural Centre to witness Kalaripayattu . This is an ancient martial art form which is both brave and beautiful.

If you have the energy, you can also book a thrilling night safari in the forest. Or simply rest at night; you've had a long day already.

Best places to Stay in Thekkady

Abad Green Forest Resort ☑️Best Location

Located in the Periyar National Park area, this 4-star property is the best place for luxury jungle experience.

Chrissie's hotel ☑️Pocket-friendly

This is one of the most popular pocket-friendly property near Periyar National Park. It's also pet-friendly!

Day 6 – Pamper yourself at Kovalam

Our trip is coming to an end soon. But don't be sad as it's time to drive to Kovalam. Located approximately 215 kilometers (134 miles) from Thekkady, it will take around 5-6 hours by road.

While like everywhere else in Kerala there's a plethora of options available for different budget types, I highly recommend booking a beach-side spa resort in Kovalam.

In most places in Kerala you can easily stay in budget hotels and explore outdoors all day. But Kovalam and the Alappuzha regions are famous for Ayurvedic Spa and medicinal treatment. Why not pamper yourself a bit here?

Kovalam itinerary for the day

Assuming you started from Thekkady at 9 am, it will be almost 3pm by the time you reach Kovalam.

You can stop for lunch on your way to the hotel, or have lunch immediately after checking in.

You can then head off to the  three beautiful beaches of Kovalam  – the  Lighthouse beach , the  Hawah beach  and the  Samudra beach . You can trek to the short cliffs for capturing amazing views.

You can spend the entire evening strolling in the beaches or go for an  Ayurvedic spa massage .

Best places to Stay in Kovalam

🥇 Raviz Kovalam (formerly Leela Kovalam)

☑️Stunning Location ☑️5-star Luxury

Located at the cliff-top the views from this hotel is heavenly. The water looks vanilla-blue from here.

Samudra Leisure beach resort

☑️Pocket-friendly☑️Spa available

At nearly half the rate of Raviz or Taj, you can enjoy luxury at pocket-friendly rate . This also has a wellness center for Ayurvedic spa.

Day 7: Bidding goodbye from Trivandrum

The last day of a vacation always makes your heart heavy. But don't worry, we still have a lot to do today before we depart from Trivandrum in the evening. 

It is located only 19 km away from Kovalam and you can reach easily within 30 minutes through the smooth coastal road. But before that we will take a detour to Poovar, a floating town in the Poovar lake near Kovalam.

After a delectable lunch in the Poovar island you can drive to the airport for final departure.

A guide to Kerala Trip Planning

Now that you have your Kerala trip plan and a detailed 7-day itinerary of Kerala, I want to share some practical information to help you travel. Here are a few travel tips and trivia about Kerala that you need to know before going on this vacation.

How to reach Kerala?

Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road. There are three main international airports located in Kochi , Trivandrum , and Calicut respectively. Several railway stations connect Kerala to other parts of India.

All the destinations mentioned here can be covered on the most scenic road trips from Bangalore , the city where I live in.

🚙 🚗 Rent a  Zoomcar  for self-driving all the way in Kerala 🚔

Going around in Kerala

While I'm all for exploring India solo, I get that it can be a bit overwhelming if you're not a local. So, your best bet is to rent a cab with an English-speaking driver.

But hey, if you're up for a little adventure, local transport like KSTDC buses work great for inter-city travel, and tuk-tuks are your go-to for getting around town.

If you're the kind who likes to take the wheel, you can also book a self-drive car. Just make sure to download the maps and have an online translator app handy.

📲 Getting simcard is difficult in India for foreign nationals. The easiest way to stay connected is with an India e-sim . 🤳

Cuisine and Dining in Kerala

While you have a plethora of “safe” options in most hotels in India, Kerala's authentic cuisine is a must-try.

Rice is the staple food of Kerala and most of the dishes are just the most innovative, mind-boggling ways you can use rice. These are my favorite Keralite dishes.

• Kerala porotta aka Malabar porota(a white-flour Indian bread) with fish-curry
• Appam-stew ( Appam is a type of pancake made of fermented rice flour and coconut milk which is usually had with a vegetable stew)
• Iddiyappam with curry (looks like idli made of rice noodles)
• Puttu with curry (Putti is a cylindrical shaped steamed rice cake)
• Karimeen Fry
• Bamboo chicken biriyani

Although known for sumptuous sea food and one of the few states in India where beef preparations are mainstream, Kerala is actually a great place for vegans.

Many of the authentic dishes as you can see in my list above use only vegan ingredients sourced locally.

If you have time, and want to do something memorable, take a home cooking class of Kerala cuisine

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is between November to January . This is the winter season, when coastal Kerala is still hot but comfortable. Rest of the year is extremely hot and humid, except for the Western Ghats region.

If you want to spend most of the time in the Western Ghats of Kerala, you can visit any time of the year.

In fact, if you want to see the famous boatrace in Alapuzha , you should plan your trip around August . This is the peak monsoon season, so temperatures cool down significantly. It will still be humid in the coastal region, but the hills will look spectacular.

The boat races are held as part of the “Onam” celebrations. It is the harvest festival of Kerala, and one of the most important days in Malaylam Calendar.  ( Malaylam is the native language of Kerala, also the native culture).

Just check for the weather reports before embarking on road-trip in the monsoon . 

A few more Frequently Asked Questions Answered

How many days are enough for kerala.

You cover the best of Kerala on a tight schedule in 7 days. This is usually the most practical time-frame most people have for spending in one state of India.

If you can extend your stay to 10 days, you will have more time to explore some of the destinations and enjoy some excursions.

If you are on an India tour and can't afford a week for Kerala , 5 days should be enough to enjoy the unmissable experiences – natural beauty of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom and the pristine beaches of Kovalam along with some cultural performances.

Ofcourse the longer you stay the better.

How to explore Kerala in 5 days?

A Kerala trip plan for 5 days should ideally have 1 day in Kochi for historic sightings, 1-day Alleppey for experiencing the backwaters and some amazing clean beaches and 2 days in Munnar for blissful Western Ghats experience.

On day 5, drive from Munnar to Kochi via Athirapally Falls. That's what I suggest because I love Munnar. However, you can squeeze in Thekkady on Day 3 and skip Athirapally Falls.

If you are visiting Kerala for the first time and have only 5 days, I highly recommend this packed 5-day Kerala trip by Saffron India Tours .

What souvenirs can I bring back from Kerala?

You can bring the best quality of Indian spices – cardamom, cloves, cinnamon etc. What most people would ask me to bring whenever I travel to Kerala is “ Banana chips “. These thinly slices dried bananas deep-fried in coconut oil is a delicacy that can travel with you back to your home easily.

Besides I highly recommend buying Kerala cotton or Kerala silk sari. You can also buy “ Mundu ” for men in the same material. The white saris or mundu with golden border is a specialty.

Is Kerala safe for solo travelling?

Kerala is one of the safest states in India for tourists. Women usually don't face lecherous stares or bad behavior in public places in Kerala. You are less likely to be scammed as a tourist. Only thing that scares me is the speed at which people drive in the hills in Kerala.

How expensive is Kerala?

In my experience I have found Kerala more expensive than the other states of south India when it comes to tourism. It is certainly the most famous tourist destination in south, and the tariff for cabs, fun-activities, etcetera is relatively higher.

Having said that it is completely affordable for budget backpackers with good hostels and homestays starting from Rs. 1000/- per day.

You cover the best of Kerala on a tight schedule in 7 days. This is usually the most practical time-frame most people have for spending in one state of India. If you can extend your stay to 10 days, you will have more time to explore some of the destinations and enjoy some excursions. If you are on an India tour and can't afford a week for Kerala , 5 days should be enough to enjoy the unmissable experiences – natural beauty of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom and the pristine beaches of Kovalam along with some cultural performances.

Closing Thoughts

I hope this article inspires you to travel to this amazing state and make memories of a lifetime. I will leave you with a list of my favorite travel sites for travel planning in India. 

If you liked this post, you may also find these articles interesting.

Best of Karnataka – One state, many worlds

Best of Enchanting Tamil Nadu

I have already linked detailed itineraries to the places mentioned in my post. But here they are again for you to read and save for later.

Munnar travel guide

Thekkady travel guide

Wayanad itinerary

Kasargod (Bekal) travel guide

Top Travel Sites in India for 2024

🏨 Booking.com  for the best hotel prices (Price match and free cancellations)

🚗Get discounts on package tours and special experiences with Viator

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For free accommodations, use Trusted House Sitters

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17 Comments

Wow! I never realized all there is to do in this region, and I love the itinerary. Thanks for the pointers and great list of things to see and do!

Thanks a lot Meggie.

I have been to Kerala 23 years ago! I really loved it but I was only there for a very short time. I remember seeing the houseboats on the backwaters and thinking I’d like to come back someday and do that. This is excellent information you have provided. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you so much for reading. Hope you come for another trip.

That’s a long time. I hope you come again to see what has changed and spend a night in the houseboat

I’ve had the opportunity to visit Kerala on four occasions within the past three years, and each visit brings forth a fresh allure. My most recent visit o Kovalam refreshed me for at least the next couple of months.

Thanks for this comprehensive post. Now I know what exactly to look for in my next trip.

Great post! The thing that draws me to Kerala is how lush, green and gorgeous the natural landscape can be. Places like the waterfalls at Munnar are just stunning and it would be fantastic to see all the wildlife. Oh, and then the food! 😀

Thank you so much. I hope you visit soon

Wow that beach view is amazing – did you have a favorite one? I have never heard of Kerala but have enjoyed reading about it as I am trying to learn more about the different states of India. Will be saving this for my trip to India!

Thanks a lot Natalie. My favorite beach in Kerala is Kovalam. I love the Marari beach too. Glad to help further if you’re planing a trip to Kerala

What a stunning place to visit- those waterfalls are amazing. And I would definitely love to take a boat ride to see elephants, how awesome!!

What a wonderful guide — so much excellent information!

And the history of the region — I never knew! Thank you!

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts

Munnar and tea gardens are sooo on my list! I was planning a visit in 2019 while working remotely from Pune, but didn’t get around to it, as work got too busy. But looking at your recommendations, definitely a must-visit!

thanks a lot Alina Hope you get to take this trip soon

I have been here 17 years before and want to go again. Such a Relaxing place it is.you have covered all the places in detail. There are. Few spice garden too typically house owners only but worth visiting if interested in food. Renu

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16 Top Places to Visit in Kerala

Kerala , in south India, is often referred to as "God's Own Country" for its unspoiled tropical beauty. This coastal state has a destination for everyone— whether it's the beach, mountains, adventure, wildlife, heritage or culture you're interested in. The pace of life is slow, making it the perfect place for a leisurely vacation.

Known as the "Gateway to Kerala", Kochi is an enchanting city that's had an eclectic influence. Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese have all left their mark there. The architecture and historical sites in Fort Kochi attract most of the visitors to the area. If you have children, consider taking them to Wonderla Amusement Park in Kochi as well. There's also many hotels and homestays for all budgets.

If you're interested in history, extend your time in Kochi to visit Muziris, situated about an hour to the north of the city. This multicultural district used to be the most important trading port in Kerala, where business flourished for more than 1,000 years before it was severely damaged by a flood. It's being developed by the Kerala government as a heritage project. Muziris extends to Kodungallur (where the astonishing and rather gory Kodungallur Bhagavathy temple festival takes place in late March or early April each year) and Paravoor. It's full of old churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples. India's first mosque, Cheraman Juma Masjid, was built there in 629 AD. Cochin Magic offers a full-day private Muziris Heritage Tour.

Kerala Backwaters

One of the most tranquil and relaxing things you can do in Kerala is to take a trip in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala canals, known as the backwaters . Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer (buy your own and bring it on the boat) make the experience even more enjoyable. You can even spend the night out in the middle of a lake. Stay a few nights at a homestay or resort along the backwaters too. Bliss! For the ultimate experience, don't miss seeing a sunset from Kakkathuruthu Island on Vembanad Lake. Most Backwaters trips start out from Alleppey.

Marari Beach

If you're after an easily accessible and peaceful beach break in Kerala, picturesque Marari is just 30 minutes north of Alleppey. This placid fishing village has a long stretch of undeveloped beach and a diverse range of accommodations, from plush resorts to simple homestays. Some front the beach.

Periyar National Park

Kerala's Periyar National Park, in the Thekkady district, is one of the most popular national parks in southern India. Unlike most other national parks in India, it stays open all year round, even during the monsoon season. Periyar is known for its wild elephants, and 30-minute elephant rides through the jungle are offered. Safaris are carried out by boat, with the lake being particularly captivating at sunset. Visitors can also take part in an excellent variety of eco-tourism activities there.

If you like tea, a visit to Munnar is a must! The surrounding region is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations. See tea being picked and processed, and try fresh tea straight from the gardens. There's even a tea museum. The area is blessed with the natural beauty of winding lanes, misty hills, and forests full of exotic plants and wildlife. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in south India , explore Eravikulam National Park, or go rock climbing and paragliding. Munnar offers a diverse range of accommodations, surrounded by nature.

The setting of Varkala beach is striking enough to take your breath away, with a long winding stretch of cliff and views that extend over the Arabian Sea. A paved footpath runs along the length of the cliff, bordered by coconut palms, quaint shops, beach shacks, hotels, and guesthouses. Nestled at the bottom of the cliff is a long stretch of sparkling beach, reached by steps leading down from the cliff top. It's not surprising that Varkala is one of India's best beaches .

Wayanad is a bright green mountainous region that stretches along the Western Ghats. It has a great deal of scenic appeal. Abundant coconut palms, thick forests, paddy fields, and lofty peaks form the landscape. Due to the nature of its terrain, the area also has much to offer adventure enthusiasts. Popular attractions include trekking to Chembra Peak and Meenmutty Falls, exploring old Jain temples, climbing to Edakkal Caves, and wildlife spotting at Muthanga and Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuaries. Another highlight of Wayanad is the many delightful homestays in the area. Glenora is one of them.

One of the best places to get off the beaten track in India, the Kannur district of northern Kerala offers an ideal blend of secluded beaches and culture in the form of mysterious masked spirit-possession theyyam rituals (October until May) and hand loom weaving. Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach is also located in Kannur. You can drive all the way along its vast stretch of sand! Kick back and relax at one of the inexpensive beach house accommodations, and enjoy the serenity.

Kerala's most happening beach, Kovalam, is conveniently located about 40 minutes southeast of capital city Trivandrum and presided over by a distinctive lighthouse. It was catapulted onto the tourist map in the early 1970s when masses of hippies converged on it, as they followed the Hippie Trail to Ceylon (now called Sri Lanka). Kovalam definitely won't appeal to everyone because its main beach is bordered by a densely packed row of hotels and does get busy, although there are quieter pockets in places.

Poovar Island

Did you know Kerala has over-water bungalows? You'll find them at Poovar Island Resort, about 30-minutes further down the coast from Kovalam. Granted, they're not as spectacular as some of those in the Maldives, but they're still recommended. Poovar Island is not far from the Tamil Nadu border and is quite an amazing natural wonder. It lies at the point where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. In between is an elongated sand bar. 

The main attraction for Hindus who visit Trivandrum is the 16th-century Padmanabhaswamy temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and built by rulers of the kingdom of Travancore. A great deal of wealth has been hidden in the temple, making it the richest temple in the world. Some of the treasures were recently unearthed but the largest vault remains unopened. Unfortunately, if you're not Hindu, you won't be allowed to go inside the temple unless you declare you believe in Hinduism. Trivandrum also has some interesting museums and galleries, housed in classical heritage buildings. These include the Napier Museum , Natural History Museum and Sri Chitra Art Gallery in the museum complex, and Kuthiramalika Palace Museum outside the Padmanabhaswamy temple.

Jatayupara Earth's Center

Jatayupara Earth Center

Jatayupara Earth's Center is an ambitious new attraction in Kerala. It opened in late 2016, in Chadayamangalam village in Kerala's Kollam district, about an hour north of Trivandrum. The park is spread over an astonishing 65 acres and is themed on the Hindu epic The Ramayan. It's dominated by a 200-foot-long landmark sculpture of Jatayu, the mythical vulture that's believed to have been killed on the rocky hilltop while trying to rescue Sita from Ravan. Notably, the sculpture is considered to be the largest of its kind in the world. The park has more than 20 adventure activities, a 6D theater that shows the battle between Jatayu and Ravan, a virtual reality museum, an Ayurvedic healing cave, and cable car (aerial tramway) to transport visitors up.

Sargaalaya Crafts Village

An initiative of the Kerala state government, Sargaalaya won a National Tourism Award for Best Rural Tourism Project in 2016. This tourist village was set up at the pretty village of Iringal, in Kerala's Kozhikode district, to provide a platform for talented artisans to display their craftsmanship. Visitors can see the artisans in action and buy their wares. The Sargaalaya Iringal International Crafts Festival takes place there every year from the third week of December to first week of January. It's south India's biggest handcraft fair, with about 400 artisans from all over the world attending.

The River Nila

If you're someone who likes to go completely off the tourist trail, you'll enjoy exploring the culture along the River Nila (also known as Bharathappuzha). This river is the longest in Kerala, and its riverbank home to many communities that are involved in traditional activities such as pottery, weaving, puppetry, folk art and dance, music, and martial arts. They all share a deep bond with the river. The Blue Yonder, an award-winning responsible travel company, conducts guided trips and is working diligently to keep these traditions alive. Stay in a cottage at the Riverside Retreat, centrally situated between Kochi and Calicut.

Rural Kerala

Visiting a village, where it feels like time has stood still, is an excellent way to learn more about the rural way of life in Kerala. You'll get to observe all kinds of local industry and skills. The focus on village tourism has grown in recent years, and a number of destinations have been developed across the state. Kumbalanghi Village is a convenient option on the outskirts of Kochi. Kerala Tourism also arranges trips to villages around Kovalam, Kumarakom, Wayanad, Thekkady, and Bekal.

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How to Travel Kerala: Essential Travel Guide, Itinerary, and Tips for Couples and Families

The best time to visit Kerala is from January to March. Travel options include buses and taxis. Key attractions are Alleppey backwaters, Munnar tea museum, and beautiful beaches. Plan a seven-day itinerary for a full experience. Kerala is safe for travelers and requires an E-Visa for entry.

Next, visit Munnar, famous for its lush tea plantations and serene hill landscapes. Families can partake in guided nature walks while couples may enjoy a romantic evening watching the sunset over the mountains. Proceed to Alleppey, renowned for its backwaters. Renting a traditional houseboat provides a peaceful experience, allowing travelers to soak in the tranquil surroundings.

Don’t miss the vibrant culture of Thekkady, where couples can engage in wildlife safaris, while families can enjoy spice plantation tours. A visit to Kovalam offers lovely beaches perfect for relaxation or water sports.

To make the most of your trip, remember to check the weather, plan activities based on interests, and consider local festivals for enriching experiences.

With these insights, you are well-equipped for a memorable journey. Next, we will outline a suggested itinerary to maximize your time in Kerala, ensuring you capture the essence of this enchanting destination.

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What Are the Must-Visit Destinations for Couples and Families in Kerala?

Kerala has numerous must-visit destinations for couples and families. These locations offer stunning landscapes, rich culture, and varied activities.

• Alleppey (Alappuzha)
• Kochi (Cochin)
• Thiruvananthapuram

These destinations provide a mix of experiences, from romantic retreats to family-friendly activities. Choosing the right destination depends on individual preferences and interests.

Munnar : Munnar is famous for its lush tea plantations and cool climate. Couples can enjoy scenic views, while families can explore parks and waterfalls. Attractions include the Tea Museum and Eravikulam National Park.

Alleppey (Alappuzha) : Alleppey is renowned for its backwaters and houseboat experiences. Couples may find secluded romantic settings, while families can enjoy boat rides and watch local wildlife.

Kochi (Cochin) : Kochi combines historical and modern attractions. Couples can explore Fort Kochi, while families can visit museums and spice markets. The city’s cultural fusion offers a unique experience.

Thekkady : Thekkady features wildlife and nature experiences. Couples can enjoy serene nature walks, while families can explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, known for elephant sightings.

Wayanad : Wayanad showcases natural beauty and adventure activities. Couples might appreciate the tranquil surroundings, whereas families can engage in trekking and visits to wildlife parks.

Kovalam : Kovalam is a beach destination popular among couples. Families can enjoy safe swimming areas and water sports, making it suitable for all ages.

Varkala : Varkala boasts cliffs and beaches with unique views. It’s ideal for couples seeking romance and families who enjoy beach outings. The Papanasam beach is especially noteworthy.

Kumarakom : Kumarakom is known for its bird sanctuary and tranquil backwaters. Couples can relax in resorts, while families can enjoy bird watching and boating.

Thiruvananthapuram : Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city and home to significant temples and museums. Couples can explore the cultural attractions, while families can visit the zoo and nearby beaches.

Bekal Fort : Bekal Fort offers historical significance and beautiful views. Couples can enjoy romantic walks, while families can explore the fort’s features and learn about its history.

Each destination caters to diverse interests. Whether seeking romance or family fun, Kerala has something for everyone.

Which Scenic Beaches and Hill Stations Are Ideal for Relaxation?

The ideal scenic beaches and hill stations for relaxation include tranquil seaside retreats and peaceful mountain getaways.

Scenic Beaches: – Maldives – Seychelles – Bora Bora – Maui, Hawaii – Amalfi Coast, Italy

Hill Stations: – Shimla, India – Munnar, India – Nainital, India – Darjeeling, India – Kodaikanal, India

These destinations are known for their serene environments, rich natural beauty, and inviting atmospheres for relaxation.

• Scenic Beaches: Scenic beaches like the Maldives exemplify idyllic settings for relaxation. The Maldives features crystal-clear waters, white sandy shores, and luxurious resorts. Visitors often engage in activities like snorkeling and sunbathing. According to the Maldives Tourism Ministry, the nation sees a significant number of travelers seeking relaxation through its stunning beaches.

Seychelles, another popular beach destination, boasts unique granite boulders and lush vegetation. The islands offer a variety of activities, from swimming to hiking in nature reserves. Researchers note Seychelles’ pristine beaches contribute significantly to mental wellness and reducing stress.

Bora Bora in French Polynesia is famous for its overwater bungalows, turquoise lagoons, and stunning coral reefs. This destination provides a perfect escape for couples and honeymooners seeking tranquility. Various travel surveys show Bora Bora ranks high in romantic getaways.

Maui, Hawaii offers both beach relaxation and diverse natural landscapes, including volcanic craters and lush rainforests. The island promotes relaxation through activities such as yoga classes on the beach. Local tourism data indicates Maui attracts visitors seeking both adventure and peaceful moments.

The Amalfi Coast in Italy combines breathtaking coastal views with charming villages. Here, visitors can enjoy laid-back strolls, exquisite dining, and beautiful sunsets over the Mediterranean. Studies suggest that exposure to such beautiful environments fosters relaxation.

• Hill Stations: Hill stations like Shimla in India serve as soothing retreats located in the Himalayas. Shimla is known for its pine-covered hills and historic architecture. Tourism data reflects an increased number of visitors during summer months seeking cooler climates and peaceful surroundings.

Munnar in India, famed for its tea gardens and rolling hills, draws travelers for relaxation and rejuvenation. Research shows that being surrounded by greenery, like Munnar’s vast plantations, can lead to significant stress relief.

Nainital is another hill station situated around a beautiful lake in India. The tranquil environment and pleasant temperatures encourage relaxation and leisure boating activities. Several surveys indicate that visitors often report enhanced well-being after spending time there.

Darjeeling, known for its tea and panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, also offers a serene escape. Activities such as visiting tea plantations contribute to a sense of calm in this picturesque area. Recent travel studies highlight Darjeeling’s popularity among those pursuing peaceful experiences.

Kodaikanal, characterized by its cool weather and scenic lakes, attracts those looking for tranquility. Outdoor activities, including boating and trekking, complement the calming atmosphere of this hill station. Statistics from tourism authorities show Kodaikanal remains a favorite among families and couples seeking relaxation.

How Can You Explore the Iconic Backwaters of Kerala Effectively?

To explore the iconic backwaters of Kerala effectively, consider choosing the right mode of transport, engaging with local culture, planning your itinerary wisely, and staying in authentic accommodations.

Selecting the right mode of transport is crucial. – Houseboats are a popular choice, offering a unique experience of floating along the lush canals. Travelers can rent a houseboat for a day or longer. – Canoes and kayaks provide a more intimate exploration. They allow access to narrow canals, where larger boats cannot go. – Motorboats offer faster travel across larger waterways. This option helps cover more ground if time is limited.

Engaging with local culture enhances the experience. – Interacting with local communities allows travelers to learn about their traditions and lifestyles. – Participating in local cooking classes helps visitors understand Keralite cuisine, which is known for its spices and flavors. – Attending traditional performances such as Kathakali, a classical dance-drama, provides insight into the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Planning your itinerary wisely is essential for a fulfilling visit. – Allocate sufficient time to explore specific destinations, like Alleppey and Kumarakom. These places are famous for their scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. – Schedule activities like bird watching in the Vembanad Lake area, where various migratory birds can be spotted. – Diversifying activities, such as visiting spice plantations and nearby hills, offers a comprehensive view of the region’s landscape.

Staying in authentic accommodations contributes to a more immersive experience. – Opt for homestays that provide a chance to connect with host families who can share local stories. – Choose eco-friendly resorts that focus on sustainability and conservation in their practices. – Engage in wellness retreats that offer Ayurvedic treatments, reflecting Kerala’s commitment to holistic health practices.

By focusing on these aspects, travelers can fully appreciate the beauty and culture of Kerala’s iconic backwaters.

How Do You Create the Perfect Itinerary for Traveling in Kerala?

Creating the perfect itinerary for traveling in Kerala involves careful planning, balancing activities, and considering travel logistics. Key points to consider include selecting destinations, choosing the right duration, planning daily activities, and including cultural experiences.

Selecting Destinations: Kerala offers diverse attractions. Key places include: – Kochi : Known for its historic sites and cultural fusion. – Munnar : Famous for tea plantations and scenic views. – Alleppey : Renowned for houseboat experiences on backwaters. – Kumarakom : Offers bird watching in tranquil settings. – Wayanad : Features lush forests and wildlife.

Choosing the Right Duration: The ideal itinerary duration varies based on interests. – Short visits (3-5 days) : Focus on a few key destinations like Kochi and Alleppey. – Longer stays (7-10 days) : Include multiple regions such as Munnar, Kumarakom, and Wayanad for a comprehensive experience.

Planning Daily Activities: Balance sightseeing with relaxation. – Morning : Visit local attractions, such as temples or markets. – Afternoon : Engage in activities like boat rides or tea plantation tours. – Evening : Enjoy local cuisine or cultural performances.

Including Cultural Experiences: Integrate local traditions and cuisine. – Food : Try authentic Kerala dishes, including dosa and seafood delicacies. – Festivals : Check local calendars for events such as Onam or Theyyam performances. – Art forms : Attend Kathakali performances or explore local crafts.

Considering Logistics: Efficient travel is vital. – Transportation : Use local taxis, auto-rickshaws, or rental services for mobility. – Accommodation : Choose a mix of hotels and homestays for varied experiences. – Timing : The best time to visit is from November to February for pleasant weather.

By focusing on these key aspects, travelers can create a well-rounded itinerary that showcases the beauty and culture of Kerala, ensuring a memorable experience.

What Are the Top Activities to Include in a 7-Day Kerala Itinerary?

The top activities to include in a 7-day Kerala itinerary are diverse and engaging, showcasing the beauty of the region.

• Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey
• Visit Tea Gardens in Munnar
• Explore Thekkady and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Discover Fort Kochi and its Historical Sites
• Experience Ayurvedic Treatments
• Enjoy the Beaches of Varkala or Kovalam
• Taste Local Cuisine

The activities listed offer a mix of natural beauty, wildlife experiences, cultural heritage, and wellness opportunities. They cater to different interests and create a comprehensive experience of Kerala’s charm.

Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey: A houseboat cruise in Alleppey allows visitors to drift through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. This unique experience provides a close view of local life along the waterways. According to Kerala Tourism, the backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, rivers, and lakes known for their stunning scenery and biodiversity. Cruising through these waters allows travelers to witness lush landscapes and traditional fishing practices. Many houseboat operators offer overnight stays, enhancing the immersion into the serene environment.

Visit Tea Gardens in Munnar: Visiting tea gardens in Munnar offers an opportunity to explore one of Kerala’s most picturesque hill stations. The rolling hills adorned with tea plantations present breathtaking views. The Tata Tea Museum reveals the history and importance of tea production, giving insight into the region’s agriculture. Statistics show that India is the second-largest producer of tea in the world, further underscoring Munnar’s significance in the tea industry.

Explore Thekkady and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Exploring Thekkady includes visits to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a renowned national park. This sanctuary is famous for its elephants and rich biodiversity. Visitors can opt for guided treks or boat rides on Periyar Lake, which enhances wildlife spotting opportunities. As reported by the Forest Department of Kerala, the Sanctuary covers 925 square kilometers and serves as a critical habitat for many species.

Discover Fort Kochi and its Historical Sites: Discovering Fort Kochi provides a glimpse into Kerala’s colonial past. Historical sites include the Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. This area reflects cultural influences from various eras and is known for its vibrant art scene. A study conducted by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation highlights the importance of heritage tourism in promoting local economies.

Experience Ayurvedic Treatments: Experiencing Ayurvedic treatments introduces visitors to traditional Indian healing practices. Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic approach to health through natural remedies and therapies. Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic retreats, offering treatments that aim to rejuvenate the body and mind. Reports by the World Health Organization highlight the global interest in natural healing methods, making Ayurveda particularly appealing to health-conscious travelers.

Enjoy the Beaches of Varkala or Kovalam: Enjoying the beaches of Varkala or Kovalam offers relaxation by the Arabian Sea. Varkala Beach is known for its dramatic cliffs, while Kovalam features a crescent-shaped shoreline ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Both beaches provide water sports and delicious seafood, enhancing the overall experience of Kerala’s coastal beauty.

Taste Local Cuisine: Tasting local cuisine is a crucial part of experiencing Kerala. The cuisine utilizes spices and coconut, showcasing diverse flavors. Popular dishes include dosa, sambar, and prawn curry. The Kerala Tourism Department notes that culinary exploration can be a highlight for many visitors, as food plays a significant role in the state’s culture.

These activities collectively create a rich and varied itinerary that showcases the essence of Kerala in just seven days.

How Can Families Customize Their Travel Experience in Kerala?

Families can customize their travel experience in Kerala by selecting personalized itineraries, choosing unique accommodations, and participating in local activities that cater to all ages.

Personalized itineraries allow families to design a travel schedule that fits their interests. Families can choose from a variety of attractions in Kerala, such as:

• Beaches: Families can visit popular destinations like Varkala Beach or Kovalam Beach to enjoy sunbathing and water sports.
• Backwaters: A houseboat experience in Alleppey offers families a tranquil way to explore the interconnected lagoons and canals.
• Hill stations: Places like Munnar provide opportunities for families to engage in nature walks and tea plantation tours.
• Wildlife sanctuaries: Visiting Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary can enhance a family’s experience with activities like guided nature walks and boat rides for wildlife spotting.

Accommodations can also be tailored to family needs. Choices include:

• Family-friendly hotels: Many resorts offer amenities like family suites, swimming pools, and children’s play areas.
• Homestays: Staying in a local home allows families to experience the culture and cuisine firsthand.
• Eco-resorts: Families interested in sustainability can choose accommodations that focus on eco-friendly practices and nature-based experiences.

Participating in local activities can enrich the travel experience. Options for families include:

• Cooking classes: Families can learn to make traditional Kerala dishes together.
• Cultural performances: Enjoying a Kathakali dance show introduces families to local arts and storytelling.
• Festivals: Visiting during festive seasons, like Onam, allows families to experience vibrant celebrations and local traditions.

By incorporating these elements, families can create a customized travel experience that is memorable and enjoyable for all members.

What Essential Tips Should Travelers Know Before Visiting Kerala?

Travelers visiting Kerala should know essential tips for a more enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

• Research Local Culture
• Pack Appropriate Clothing
• Stay Hydrated
• Learn Basic Malayalam
• Respect Local Customs
• Understand Transportation Options
• Choose Accommodation Wisely
• Try Local Cuisine
• Plan for Monsoon Season
• Prioritize Health Precautions

Understanding these tips can enhance your travel experience and ensure a deeper connection with the local environment.

Research Local Culture : Understanding local customs and traditions enriches the travel experience. Kerala has a diverse cultural heritage influenced by various communities. Travelers who familiarize themselves with cultural norms, festivals, and rituals can engage more respectfully with locals.

Pack Appropriate Clothing : Kerala has a tropical climate. Packing lightweight, breathable clothing is advisable. During monsoon months, waterproof gear is necessary. Visitors should also consider dressing modestly when visiting temples and rural areas.

Stay Hydrated : The humid climate of Kerala requires travelers to stay hydrated. It is important to drink plenty of water, preferably bottled or boiled, to avoid dehydration and waterborne diseases. Staying hydrated supports overall health during outings.

Learn Basic Malayalam : Learning a few basic phrases in Malayalam can enhance interactions with locals. Simple words and greetings can lead to warmer exchanges and improve the travel experience by showing respect for the local language.

Respect Local Customs : Kerala is known for its unique traditions. Travelers should be aware of local etiquette, especially in social settings and religious sites. For example, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a temple, which shows respect for holy places.

Understand Transportation Options : Kerala offers various transportation options, including buses, auto-rickshaws, and ferries. Understanding how to navigate these options can save time and help travelers reach their destinations more efficiently. Prior research on routes, schedules, and fares is beneficial.

Choose Accommodation Wisely : Selecting the right accommodation can greatly impact the travel experience. Options range from luxury resorts to homestays. Travelers should consider their preferences for comfort, cultural immersion, and location when booking their stay.

Try Local Cuisine : Kerala is famous for its diverse culinary offerings, including seafood and vegetarian dishes. Trying local food, such as dosa or appam, provides insight into the region’s culture. Street food is often safe if selected from busy or well-regarded vendors.

Plan for Monsoon Season : Kerala experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. Travelers should plan accordingly. Some activities may be limited during this time, while others, like enjoying lush landscapes, are enhanced.

Prioritize Health Precautions : Health precautions are vital when traveling. Travelers should check for recommended vaccinations and carry necessary medications. Using mosquito repellent is crucial, as diseases like dengue fever can be prevalent in tropical regions.

By understanding and implementing these essential tips, travelers can navigate Kerala more effectively and enjoy a fulfilling visit to this unique destination.

What Transportation Options Are Available for Easier Travel Throughout Kerala?

The transportation options available for easier travel throughout Kerala include a range of public and private modes.

• Taxis and Auto Rickshaws
• Bicycles and Motorbikes
• Domestic Flights

These options cater to diverse travel preferences, whether one seeks budget-friendly or convenient choices. Travelers might prefer public transportation for its affordability, while others may prioritize comfort or speed.

Buses : Buses offer a cost-effective way to travel across Kerala. Kerala’s State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates an extensive network of buses, connecting major towns, cities, and tourist destinations. These buses range from basic services to luxury options. According to KSRTC, they provide over 4,000 buses daily.

Taxis and Auto Rickshaws : Taxis and auto rickshaws present convenient travel options for short distances. Taxis can be booked via mobile apps or hired on the spot. Auto rickshaws are ideal for navigating smaller streets and can be hired easily. Both provide flexible travel plans and cater to individual and group needs.

Trains : Trains are a popular mode of transport for long-distance travel within Kerala. The Southern Railway operates multiple passenger and express trains connecting major cities and tourist spots. Trains are often faster than buses and provide scenic views along coastal routes. According to Indian Railways, Kerala’s rail network includes over 1,300 kilometers of track.

Ferries : Ferries are unique to Kerala due to its network of backwaters. They enable scenic travel across lakes and rivers, connecting various tourist destinations in places like Alleppey and Kumarakom. Kerala Water Transport Department manages these services. They are a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty while exploring.

Bicycles and Motorbikes : Renting bicycles and motorbikes offers flexibility and adventure for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Kerala offers several rental services catering to tourists. This option suits both solo travelers and families. Cycling routes often pass through scenic landscapes, adding to the charm of travel in Kerala.

Domestic Flights : Domestic flights facilitate quick travel to and from Kerala, especially from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Cochin International Airport is a prominent hub that connects Kerala to various national and international destinations. This mode is preferable for travelers short on time, as it significantly reduces travel duration.

Overall, the transportation options in Kerala cater to varying budgets and preferences. Choices like buses emphasize affordability, while taxis and ferries highlight convenience and unique experiences.

How Can Travelers Ensure Safety and Comfort During Their Trip?

Travelers can ensure safety and comfort during their trip by planning ahead, staying aware, maintaining health, securing belongings, and engaging with the local culture.

Planning ahead involves researching the destination. Travelers should gather information on local customs, safety recommendations, and registration requirements for emergencies. The U.S. Department of State advises checking travel advisories before departure, adjusting plans when necessary.

Staying aware is crucial. Travelers should remain vigilant and trust their instincts. They must stay updated with local news and follow guidelines from local authorities. The International Journal of Travel Medicine (Seyed Mohammad et al., 2020) emphasizes that situational awareness helps in avoiding risky areas.

Maintaining health is vital for comfort. Travelers should ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date before their trip. It is also wise to pack a first-aid kit and any necessary medications. A study from the Journal of Travel Medicine (Duncan et al., 2019) revealed that travelers who maintain good health practices report higher comfort levels during trips.

Securing belongings enhances safety. Travelers should use locks on bags and keep valuables in a safe place. The Global Business Travel Association reports that 29% of travelers experience some form of theft during their journeys. Keeping a copy of important documents, such as a passport, also mitigates risks.

Engaging with the local culture can foster safety and comfort. Learning a few key phrases in the local language creates goodwill and helps in emergencies. Additionally, familiarizing themselves with local transportation systems can reduce stress when navigating a new city. According to the World Tourism Organization, engaging with locals significantly enhances overall travel experiences and comfort levels.

By implementing these strategies, travelers can create a safer and more comfortable experience, enhancing the enjoyment of their journey.

What Local Dishes Should You Not Miss When Traveling in Kerala?

When traveling in Kerala, you should not miss the following local dishes:

• Dum Biryani
• Kerala Sadya
• Puttu and Kadala
• Kerala Parotha

These dishes showcase the unique flavors and culinary traditions of Kerala.

1. Appam: Appam is a type of soft and fluffy rice pancake with a crispy edge. This dish is made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, resulting in a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. Appam pairs well with various curries, especially coconut-based ones. Popular in both breakfast and dinner settings, appam is a staple in Keralite households. The dish has its origins in the region’s diverse influences, combining local ingredients with techniques borrowed from traders, particularly the Portuguese.

2. Dum Biryani: Dum Biryani is a fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meat, typically chicken or mutton. The rice and meat are cooked together in a sealed pot, allowing the flavors to meld. This dish often includes spices like cardamom, cloves, and saffron, giving it a distinct taste. The preparation style reflects the Persian influence, as biryani is believed to have been introduced to India through Mughal cuisine. Local versions in Kerala may include unique spices, varying it from other biryani styles around India.

3. Kerala Sadya: Kerala Sadya is a traditional feast served on a banana leaf, featuring an array of vegetarian dishes. It typically includes rice, served with various curries like sambar and avial. Sadya is especially popular during festivals and special occasions. This meal embodies the communal spirit of Keralite culture, allowing for shared experiences. The wide variety emphasizes seasonal vegetables and local grains, reflecting Kerala’s agricultural diversity.

4. Fish Curry: Kerala Fish Curry is known for its rich and spicy taste, often incorporating coconut milk and tamarind. The dish typically uses local fish varieties such as pomfret or mackerel and varies across regions. The additions of curry leaves and mustard seeds contribute to its unique flavor profile. Seafood is a significant part of the Keralite diet, reflecting the state’s coastal geography. According to a study by the Food and Agriculture Organization, fish constitutes a vital protein source for many households in Kerala.

5. Puttu and Kadala: Puttu is a steamed rice cake layered with coconut, usually served with kadala, which are black chickpeas cooked in a spiced gravy. This dish is common for breakfast and is favored for its health benefits and nutritional value. Puttu’s preparation involves mixing rice flour with water, creating a soft texture. This dish exemplifies the use of locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods that define Kerala’s culinary landscape.

6. Kerala Parotha: Kerala Parotha is a flaky, layered flatbread made from refined flour. It’s often served with meat or vegetable curries. The dough is rolled and folded multiple times, creating the characteristic layers. Parotha has its roots in the Malabar region of Kerala and reflects its diverse culinary influences. Its popularity lies in its texture and ability to absorb flavors from accompanying dishes.

7. Payasam: Payasam is a sweet dessert made from rice or vermicelli, cooked in milk and flavored with cardamom and jaggery. This dish often contains nuts and raisins, adding richness and texture. Payasam is commonly served during festivals and family gatherings. The dish reflects Kerala’s love for sweets, showcasing local ingredients like coconut and jaggery. Cultural significance is evident, as payasam is often offered in temples and during religious ceremonies.

These local dishes contribute to Kerala’s rich culinary heritage, blending flavors and traditions unique to the region.

How Can You Immerse Yourself in Kerala’s Rich Culture and Traditions?

To immerse yourself in Kerala’s rich culture and traditions, engage in local festivals, savor regional cuisine, participate in traditional arts, explore heritage sites, and connect with local communities.

Engaging in local festivals allows you to experience the vibrancy of Kerala’s traditions. Festivals such as Onam and Vishu showcase colorful rituals, music, dance, and elaborate feasts. Participation in these celebrations offers insights into local customs and values.

Savoring regional cuisine provides a taste of Kerala’s culinary diversity. Dishes like Sadya, a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, and seafood delicacies like fish curry highlight the region’s agricultural and coastal bounty. Kerala’s use of spices like cardamom and black pepper reflects its historical trade routes.

Participating in traditional arts can deepen your appreciation for Kerala’s heritage. Kathakali, a classical dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling, and Mohiniyattam, a graceful solo dance form, demonstrate the state’s artistic richness. Workshops and performances are available for visitors.

Exploring heritage sites helps you understand Kerala’s historical influences. Places like Fort Kochi feature colonial architecture and remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. Temples and churches, such as the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the Santa Cruz Basilica, reveal the state’s spiritual diversity.

Connecting with local communities enriches your cultural immersion. Engaging with artisans or farmers enables you to witness traditional crafts and agricultural practices. Homestays and interaction with local families foster meaningful exchanges that enhance your understanding of Kerala’s way of life.

By incorporating these elements into your visit, you can fully experience the unique culture and traditions that Kerala has to offer.

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KERALA TRAVEL GUIDE | The Best of Kerala Without the Crowds

Our Kerala travel guide covers the best places to visit in Kerala and how to get the best out of this beautiful corner of India with fewer crowds, supporting local and sustainable travel options along the way.

Exploring the Best of God’s Own Country

Think swaying palm trees, crashing surf, coffee plantations, hill retreats, silent backwaters, rice paddies, beautiful national parks that are home to a host of wildlife and you’ve teleported yourself to Kerala.

One of the better known states of India, there’s a lot to pack in to a trip to Kerala. Known as God’s Own Country, Kerala in South India has a lot to offer: from ayurvedic retreats and yoga centres, to hill stations and tea plantations up in the Western Ghats (mountains), to national parks that are home to tigers and elephants, to palm fringed beaches. And then there are the Kerala Backwaters, which despite their overcrowding issues, still provide a serene backdrop to any Kerala experience – when experienced in the right way.

We spent over a month travelling Kerala at the beginning of this year, and despite having more time to spend than many visitors to Kerala, we still could not fit everything in. There’s a lot to do in captivating Kerala: so pick wisely!

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This guide will help you get to the best of your time in Kerala – we have put together our recommendations for travelling mindfully in Kerala. Here you’ll find the best eco friendly resorts, homestays, community tourism projects, wildlife projects, locally owned restaurants, and a whole lot more!

What’s in a name? The place names in Kerala are a bit of a jungle. For some strange reason most places seem to begin with a ‘K’ or an ‘M’ (if anyone can enlighten us as to why please do so!), the names are also remarkably similar / mix-up-able, and there’s also an eclectic mix of old and new names used. Allapuzha is commonly referred to as Alleppey still, whereas Kollam – which was Quillon – universally goes by its new name. We’ve included both old and new names wherever relevant in this Kerala Guide to help with getting around.

Ecotourism in Kerala

Kerala’s beauty is no longer a secret, and with its popularity have come crowds of visitors – both from within India and from overseas. Those crowds have congregated in specific areas of Kerala and led to problems for Kerala’s wildlife, environment and local inhabitants: from pollution, to over-development, to lack of local empowerment and economic benefit from tourism.

Local resources have become drained, including water, and upsetting that very delicate balance of flora and fauna. In Alleppey, where going on a house boat cruise is on the bucket-list for so many, the scenes are often of overcrowding of houseboats, islands of floating plastic and filth a-top inky black water.

The good news is that it is possible to travel in Kerala in a way that avoids the eyesores and mass-touristed spots, and more importantly supports local and community based initiatives where local Keralites see the benefits from tourism. We’ve got you covered for the best of sustainable travel in Kerala.

A word – before we begin – about use of the word “Ecotourism” in Kerala (and the rest of India). Ecotourism, unfortunately, is not always and only used for places that are focused on the principles of responsible tourism (ie. giving back to local communities, being environmentally sensitive and protecting local people and cultures). Instead, “Ecotourism” in India is often used to describe any tourist activity which involves the outdoors (such as walking, camping) and / or seeing wildlife. Whether or not it is eco-friendly or in any way sustainable. 

Short on time or too busy to plan your own trip? There are plenty of local tour companies who can help such as eKeralaTourism  who offer many of the highlights of Kerala or can offer tailor made itineraries.

There are also global companies such as G Adventures who we have travelled with several times and recommend. 

Find out more about G Adventures South India Tours here.

Our Top Picks for Where to Stay in Kerala

Coconut Lagoon (High End) – For luxury along the backwaters there’s no better place than Coconut Lagoon. Owned and run by Keralan family run CGH Earth group, watch the sunset over the backwaters in this beautiful and sustainable hotel which is only accessible by boat… Check rates & book Coconut Lagoon here!

Ashtamudi Villas (Mid Range) – Set on the southern end of Kerala’s backwaters in Kollam, Ashtamudi Villas are owned and run by a local, who also offers trips in dug out canoes and kayaks to local villages for a more intimate experience with the backwaters. Perfect for chilling in one of their lake-side hammocks and experiencing a much less touristy side of the backwaters… Check rates & book Ashtamudi Villas here!

Marari Beach House (Budget) – Right on Marari Beach (one of Kerala’s nicest beaches near Kochi), this simple place is clean and walking distance to the waves. Perfect for hanging by the beach for a few days! Check rates & Book Marari Beach House here!

North Kerala

Kannur & thottada beach.

Kannur was our first port of call in Kerala after spending 3 weeks in beautiful Bangladesh. As our first taste of Kerala this year, Kannur did not disappoint.

Northern Kerala has been off the beaten track for many visitors to Kerala, who have focused more on the central and southern parts of the state. But that may be about to change. This year, Lonely Planet has named Northern Kerala as one of Asia’s hotspots , and as a paradise for those seeking a quieter taste of Kerala. Small homestays line the palm fringed shores, with uninterrupted views out across the Arabian sea.

Planning a trip to Kerala? Grab your Lonely Planet here!

Where to Stay in Kannur & Thottada Beach

Thottada beach is one of the best beaches in the area, with a range of accommodation to suit all budgets . There aren’t any facilities as such or shade, so the best time to visit is morning or late afternoon for a stroll. Ladies are recommended to cover up a bit on the beach as this is a rural and mainly Muslim area.

We stayed at Haris Seashell Inn  just outside of Kannur, which turned out to be one of the best decisions we’ve made. Owned by the enigmatic and kind Mr Haris, these bungalows are perched on a clifftop, with panoramic views out to the beaches below and the sea. I loved waking up and falling asleep to the sound of the crashing waves below.

Mr Haris has done a lot to build the guesthouse in a sustainable way – the villa and rooms are made of repurposed  / upcycled materials salvaged from inhabited traditional Kerala houses, there is an organic farm, and Haris Seashell employs a number of physically handicapped staff, to name but a few initiatives. We happened on this place by chance but were delighted to find  place that was doing so much to create a positive impact!

Check rates and availability for Haris Seashell Inn here .

Getting to and from Kannur

Kannur is well connected by railway north to Goa and Mumbai, and south to Kochi and the rest of Kerala. There’s reportedly a new airport for those coming from further afield. There are also buses connecting to the rest of Kerala and nearby Karnataka state. Our recommended mode of transport in India is by train.

Little heard of – outside of India at least – Wayanad is a tranquil uphill oasis of homestays, quiet villages, scenic winding roads that take you through wild forests, and is a place where you can truly escape.

Things to do in Wayanad

There’s no “centre” to Wayanad as such, so to the first time visitor it can take some time to get your bearings. Sights and activities are spread all over the region, so wherever you base yourself, some road travel will be involved. Our best tip is to pick somewhere quiet to stay, un-plug and relax to the backdrop of the peaceful Wayanad scenery. It’s better not to try to pack too much sightseeing in – but rather adapt to life at a slower pace.

Jeep Safaris.  Wildlife is a big attraction here, but we found our jeep drive at Tholpetty to be disappointing. After an early start and being inline at the forestry department by 6am to get our tickets, we got the second jeep out of the gates. We didn’t see anything apart from a few deer.

Unfortunately the “Safari” consists of a 30 minute drive through the section of national park that is right next to the road, in a line of about 20 jeeps. If you’re more than the second or third jeep in, your chances of seeing wildlife are likely non-existent. We should probably be happy that this means less interference for the animals! As an alternative, safaris at Muthunga are reportedly better than Tholpetty – and even better are the wildlife opportunities in neighbouring Karnataka state.

Beyond the safaris, there are beautiful lakes to visit  and countless hikes one can go on. There are several different boating lakes. Pookode lake has pedals-style boating (we did not visit here) and Banasura Sagar Dam is the place to go for those needing an adrenaline kick – on a speedboat. There is also a slow ferry that you can go on around the lake, at 12 midday.

Homestays in Wayanad

We were lucky enough to stay in two amazing homestays in Wayanad.

The first we found through I-likelocal.com – our go to website for homestays and responsible tourism activities in Asia. We planned to stay one night in a homestay on a working coffee plantation, but our one night turned into four nights! In a simple cabin away from the main house and down a bamboo walkway, we were surrounded by trees and jungle.

Our shady balcony was the perfect spot to relax and read, practice a little meditation, and just enjoy the sound of the birds. Hosted by a welcoming couple, the homestay is the family home and plantation of Sunil, who is also a responsible tourism advocate. We enjoyed chatting about the development of tourism in Wayanad over many a cup of home-grown coffee. 

The homestay is a short distance (15 minutes by rickshaw) from Meenangady, which is a small town with some simple but good thali and dosa restaurants and is a regional transport hub.

Find more information and rates for i-like local homestays here .

Our second homestay in Wayanad was with the inspiring  Kabani Tour  which we found through Visit.org. Kabani Community tourism have set up two village community tourism projects in Kerala and are currently working on a third. Promoting “thoughtful travel”, their concept is one that revolves around travellers experiencing village life through homestays, meeting village elders, learning more about traditional life through guided walks and learning more about traditions. Revenue is then reinvested directly into the community from these activities.

We went to the Kabani village of Mothakara which is famous for its Women-to-Women travel initiatives. Set among villages of winding lanes, emerald paddy fields, and extended lolly-pop shape betel-nut trees, this village is a truly peaceful place. Local women from the village have been trained in guiding and showing (female) visitors to the village, the ways of local village life. These women previously had no employment opportunities, but rather were housewives.

Through the Women to Women travel project they have been given the opportunity to expand their horizons through interactions with visitors to the village, and also to earn additional income for the family. Initially the women did not have any English language skills, and relied on communicating through gestures, expressions, and through their hearts. Over time, English words have been exchanged and learned, and the project has continued to grow. These days these even a guesthouse run entirely by this inspiring team of women. Unfortunately during our visit, the women guide team were oversubscribed and so we didn’t get to experience their project in full; however we did get to meet the charming Radha. 

Our homestay – where we stayed in our host family’s house – was the soft bed and crisp cotton sheets kind of comfortable, and we were served some of the most delicious home-cooked food during all of our time in Kerala.

Find out more info and book Kabani’s Women-to-Women tour here . 

Responsible Travel in Wayanad

Despite Wayanad being little known and considered “off the beaten path” outside of India, it is a different story within India. Wayanad has become / is becoming a popular escape for weekenders from Bangalore and the visitor footfall (or carfall) is steadily increasing. As such Wayanad’s blissful peace and quiet is coming under pressure from tourism, too. Do your bit to leave a positive impact from your visit by taking time to learn about the local culture, respecting the environment by not littering (even better – avoid plastic bottled water) or causing noise pollution (being noisy) and consider staying somewhere that supports eco friendly travel.

We did not have time to visit all of the ecotourism options in Wayanad, so here are some suggestions beyond our experiences above:

Eco Friendly Hotels / Resorts in Wayanad

• Uravu Bamboo Grove is an award winning sustainable lodge, with design-led rooms surrounded by nature.
• An award-winning sustainable guest house set high up in the Wayanad hills, Fringe Ford  is a place that prides itself on being “as cut off from the world as you can get” (we think that’s a good thing!).
• Award winning CGH Earth’s property Wayanad Wild  offers a luxury escape deep into the forest

Wayanad Responsible Tourism Tours & Activities

The best way to support responsible tourism in Wayanad is to be environmentally sensitive (e.g. avoiding plastic and limiting your water use), using public transportation if possible to reduce the number of cars on the road, and to be respectful of wildlife. There are a number of operators offering ways to connect with the local culture and community on your trip, here are a few resources (we did not use all of them, but they are all reputable and highly regarded organisations.

• I-like Local offer a number of Farmstays, Homestays and responsible experiences
• The Blue Yonder offer trips including day activities throughout Kerala.
• Many of the accommodations listed above will be able to help you arrange activities during your stay in Wayanad.

Getting to and from Wayanad

Wayanad is easily accessible from the northern Kerala cities of Calicut (Khozikode) and Kannur. There are also connections to Cochin, Bangalore, Mysore and other major regional hubs. There are more frequent bus services to Calicut, although you can take a direct bus from Mananthadvady to Kannur. There are no railway connection to / from Wayanad. Most buses are run by KSRTC but we found the redbus website far more helpful.

Central Kerala

Kochi / cochin.

Kochi / Cochin (the town’s old name)  is one of Kerala’s most popular tourism spots and transport hubs, and so the starting point for many travellers in Kerala. It’s possible to spend many a day wandering the old lanes of Fort Cochin between colonial houses, organic cafes, art galleries, churches and boutiques. Note that Cochin is quite separate (it is an island) from the mainland town of Ernakulam, where all major transport arrives and departs from.

Things to do in Kochi

Kathakali Performances  – for many visitors, a Kathalkali performance is on their list – this is a chance to see traditional Keralan dance and music, complete with incredible makeup and costumes. The Kerala Kathakali Centre is the most authentic theatre to see this at.

Exploring Fort  Cochin –  taking in its churches, museums and even Synagogues. As an old trading and naval outpost, over the last 600 years, Kochi has seen the arrival of many immigrants of different nationalities and religions – from Portuguese to Dutch, to British to Arabic traders. There’s an Indo-Portugese museum, a Dutch cemetery, as well as several beautiful churches to explore such as the Santa-Cruz basilica. There’s also a growing number of art galleries (often with cafe), such as the Kashi Art Gallery.

Shopping –  there are plenty of artisan style shops in Fort Kochi, making it something of a shoppers paradise. Many shops sell organic toiletries and ayurveda products, and lovely Aambal is an eco clothing store  which sells hand-woven, natural and handmade and recycled fashion.

Eating –  There are plenty of cafes lining the streets of Fort Kochi, and if you’ve been on the road for a while, this is a good place to splurge on western treats aka good pizza and avocado wraps with a good latte. It does come at a price though. The local fare is much bewe dtter priced, usually more delicious, and we got bitten by the traditional Keralan Thali bug, at the Solar Cafe . For a truly authentic dining experience head to Authenticook to arrange to dine in someone’s house. We were hosted by the charming and kind Bindu at her home in Ernakulam and enjoyed a delicious brunch.

Take a day trip (or longer) to Marari Beach –  The beaches at Kochi itself are grubby (at best) but head an hour and a half or so south, and the lovely Marari beach awaits. Rent a two-wheeler and drive straight south through paddy fields, small towns, and backwater scenery. Marari beach (also known as Mararikulam) itself is as yet not very developed, and is a pretty stretch of sand with clean water for swimming. Accommodation options nearby vary widely in quality if you want to stay longer – the shacks on the beach looked decidedly dilapidated, whereas the Marari Beach hotel is fit for a king.

The Kerala Backwaters –  Kerala’s largest draw, you’ll likely be offered a backwater cruise (or two) during your time in Kochi. See more on arranging a backwaters trip below , we don’t recommend  booking it from Kochi due to high prices.

Where to Stay in Kochi

The Fort Kochi area is the place where most visitors stay – while there are plenty of hotels over in Ernakulam on the mainland that are useful for if you have an early / late bus or train to catch, most of the main attractions of Kochi are in the fort area. Homestays are the name of the game here, and the city has seen an explosion in them. Indeed you can’t walk more than a few meters without coming across a homestay sign. The word “homestay” has been applied in a liberal sense though – and these are usually just guesthouses with a number of rooms that are sold on a bed & breakfast basis, but hosts are usually very welcoming!

Because of the explosion of homestays in Fort Kochi, the centre can get a little crowded and there are no “eco-friendly” accommodation options as such in Kochi. For a quieter experience, head a little away from the fort. If travelling in December / January, book well in advance!

Check rates and book accommodation in Kochi here.  

Getting to and from Kochi

The main gateway to Kochi is Ernakulam. There are two train stations (on opposite sides of the city so please check which one your train arrives at/leaves from) Ernakulam Town (sometimes referred to as “North Railway” and Ernakulam Junction “South Railway”). Trains run north-south along the Indian coast and link directly to Mumbai, Goa, Karnataka, and southern Kerala. There are also direct trains across country to Bangalore, Chennai and even Delhi (46 hours!). Buses run routes from Ernakulam across the region.

Kochi airport is also located in Ernakulam about an hour away from Fort Kochi, and is remarkable for being fully run on solar energy! It’s a major hub and as well as domestic flights has connections to the Gulf countries, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Singapore.

Despite being one of Kerala’s major attractions this is one place that we failed to squeeze into our Kerala itinerary, except for passing through its scenic gardens. Tea is of course, the name of the game here and is the main draw, and most visitors come to soak up the ambience and enjoy being surrounded by the beauty of the tea gardens.

Munnar tea country resort is a sustainable accommodation option – they have implemented sustainable initiatives and are looking to reduce their footprint.

Find prices and book Munnar hotels here .

South Kerala

Thekkady & periyar tiger reserve.

Travelling inland and up into Kerala’s mountains – the Western Ghats – was one of the highlights of our Kerala trip. Winding through hills, tea plantations and around several hair pin bends, our bus journey (although bumpy) provided spectacular views. Thekkady is best known for Periyar National Park (or sometimes, rather optimistically known as Periyar Tiger Reserve) and many come here for a chance to see Kerala’s wildlife. It’s also, more simply, a chance to get away from the hot and humid air of the backwaters and coast.

Things to do in Thekkady and Periyar

Exploring Periyar –  Kerala’s Western Ghats are one of the largest refuges for wildlife in India, and Periyar National Park is one destination that tourists flock to, in the hopes of seeing wild elephant, leopards, tigers and more. There are various ways to explore the national park, but during our trip to Periyar  we found some to be far more enjoyable than others. While the boat trip on the lake felt like a foray into disneyland, we loved walking in the park in the early morning mist with our local guide (Periyar is one of the last remaining parks you can walk into), and we also loved our stay at Kerala’s most sustainable resort, in Thekaddy: Spice Village .

Learn about Tribal Communities near Periyar –  Periyar and the surrounding area are home to different tribal communities , including the Mannan, Paliyan and Malampandaram tribes. Such communities often leave a significantly different lifestyle from “mainstream” society, and as such are sometimes marginalised. They have an unprecedented knowledge of the forest areas, and are now benefitting from the tourism that comes from Periyar through a number of ecotourism initiatives. You can support the people who have relied on the forest in the past by taking a walk or trek with one of the village guides, or going to visit the Tribal Heritage Museum in Thekkady.

Seeing Wildlife – While we loved our visit to Thekkady and our stay, if your primary motive for visiting is to spot wildlife, you may be disappointed. Due to crowds, many animals hide deep in the forest. And we can’t say we blame them! Get the full low down on visiting Thekkady and Periyar in our post here .

Where to Stay in Thekkady and Periyar

The highlight of our time in Thekkady was without doubt our stay at the beautiful and very eco-friendly Spice Village Resort . This resort has won awards for its environmental and community initiatives, and no wonder… the resort is powered by a solar plant the size of a football pitch,  they have their own water filtering and bottling plant, a paper recycling operation (all paper you’ll find in the hotel is recycled), several types of compost, biogas, and the list goes on. It’s also a beautiful place to relax – designed as a traditional spice village, the cottages are well spaced out and set among tranquil gardens, where black monkeys and birds rest peacefully over head. You will not want to leave!

Check rates and book Spice Village Resort here . 

There are a few other small eco-friendly lodges and smaller accommodations such as Indhrivanam, a vegan and eco friendly homestay, however we did not have time to check out their credentials in person.

Check rates and book Indhrivanam here . 

Kerala Backwaters

The number one tourism draw in Kerala (and possibly southern India) are the Kerala backwaters, and the chance to take a cruise along them. Over recent years images of floating quietly and serenely through Keralan villages on a converted traditional Keralan rice barge, surveying life, warm chai in hand, have drawn in the crowds. After all, who wouldn’t be tempted by such a blissful watery escape?

Over the last ten years, crowds have flocked in steadily increasing numbers to Alleppey (Allaphuza) which – somewhat prophetically if not wistfully – has been self-dubbed as the  Venice of the East.  What were once tranquil backwaters have become noisy, congested with tourists and polluted in many parts – due to poor regulation of houseboat tourism and overcrowding. Where tourism was once seen as a blessing by locals, it has now become a bit of a curse. The inky black waters of Alleppey itself tell of a different side to the Kerala backwaters .

To Houseboat or not to Houseboat?

One of the biggest culprits in spoiling the backwaters has been houseboat tourism. There is no accurate figure for how many houseboats are currently in operation, while un-registered houseboats have been clamped down on since 2015, the number of houseboats have still been growing. In recent efforts to curb houseboat tourism growth further, Kerala tourism recently introduced a measure as part of their Kerala Responsible Tourism mission that prevented any new licences being granted for new houseboats on the Kerala backwaters. Results, however have yet to be seen, and sources say that it’s not working: when a ship retires from service, the licence is simply “recycled” for a new houseboat – meaning little to any reduction in the number of houseboats. During our time in Alleppey we saw rows on rows of houseboats moored just outside the town, hoping for customers.

So what’s the the problem with the houseboats? Essentially the damage that they cause falls into a few different categories. The most obvious is their environmental impact – 95% of houseboats are diesel powered, and that fuel often leaks into the waters. Many boats are high-end and offer air-conditioning, meaning the constant burning of fuel on board to power the boat and generators. There are no sewage treatment facilities on the boats meaning that sewage is dumped directly overboard, and there’s no waste disposal either – meaning that the plastic water bottles you drink from usually go straight over the side too.

This pollution has impacted water quality, and fishermen have reported a decline in fish and prawn stocks in areas frequented by houseboats, meaning a direct impact on the livelihood of fishing communities in the backwaters. For many villages, their only water supply is from the backwater channels themselves for cooking and even drinking – more shockingly only a fraction of villagers reported boiling or treating the water in any way before drinking it. In the agricultural sector there has been an effect too, with concerns over polluted paddy fields, damage to rice crops, and even labourers becoming reluctant to work in the polluted fields.

Then there is the noise pollution for locals from the passing boats (many of which blare (awful) music loudly), and the lack of economic or social benefit for most locals from houseboat tourism. Houseboat tourism was initially thought to provide economic benefits to locals by providing jobs on boats, but in reality the high prices that tourists pay for their houseboat experience rarely reach the villagers who need to deal with the effects of the passing boats. Rather the money goes to companies and private individuals who often own large numbers of houseboats. Granted there are jobs on the boats, but this number is small compared to the number who feel the effect of pollution in the backwaters.

For all of these reasons we decided not to go on a houseboat cruise in Alleppey or elsewhere on the Kerala backwaters, and we don’t recommend it.

Exploring the Backwaters Responsibly

But what about my backwaters dream? Worry not – there are some less damaging ways to enjoy Kerala’s watery scenery. In general, these consist of either taking public ferry routes that are already in service, and/or staying on land next to the backwaters. Choosing to use existing infrastructure helps to keep our footprint lower and brings more benefit to locals, particularly in the case of choosing to stay in existing accommodation, particularly if it is homestays or on a small scale.

One of the best places to stay next to the backwaters and enjoy all their beauty, without supporting houseboats is Kumarakom – more on that below!

Alleppey (Allappuzha)

Alleppey is backpacker central and ground zero for backwater cruises – expect wherever you stay to persist with offering you houseboat services during your stay. We however enjoyed our time in Alleppey (we spent nearly a week there) and found it to be a great town for unwinding, with good wifi for when we needed to catch up on work, good food, and plenty of facilities.

Things to do in Alleppey

The Beach – away from the backwaters scene, Alleppey is blessed in being located both on the ocean with its own long beach, and on the edge of the backwaters. The beach itself is a nice stretch, and has a number of accommodation options, and cafes. We loved strolling the beach at evening time when the bhaji and chai wallahs come out to sell their tasty snacks, and the beach becomes a popular gathering point for families and couples. The beach is reportedly safe for swimming although take care as the waves can get strong. The beach is quite touristy and you’ll see plenty of pale skinned visitors in their swimwear, but we recommend ladies to cover up with a sarong while not swimming.

Take the Local Ferry  – ferries go on a number of different routes leaving from Alleppey and are a chance to see the backwaters, the local way. We took the morning ferry to Kottayam (3 hours) and returned the same day at 3pm from Kottayam to Alleppey. It made for quite a long day on the boat, but we loved the experience of sitting in the well ventilated boat and seeing local life. The 3pm return ferry to Alleppey was filled with school children ( please do not give them pens as this encourages begging from tourists ) giving us plenty of opportunity to chat and practice their English. You can find the Kerala Water Transport Dept schedules here .

Go on a Walk of Old Alleppey –  The Award Winning Preserve Alleppey Society , started by a group of local ladies, was created due to the need to preserve the character of Alleppey. In a country where it is uncommon for women to be able to work as guides or in tourism, this is a cause well worth supporting to encourage the work of women in tourism, and also to see the original character of Alleppey. The ladies offer guided walks of Alleppey and cooking classes.

Where to Stay in Alleppey

Like other tourism hotspots, Alleppey has seen a surge in accommodation options over recent years, and is suffering from the problem of too many homestays and hotels being opened. When we visited, homestays were complaining of being empty (despite us visiting in January – supposedly high season). Homestays also vary hugely in quality. We moved quickly from our first homestay which we did not like until we found Heritage Homestay (below).

We loved our time at Heritage Homestay – a very simple, locally owned place with two big and airy rooms at the front – which immediately felt like home to us. Run by the charming and very kind Johnny and his team, the homestay is located about 10 minutes walk from the beach.

Check prices and book Heritage Homestay here .

Nestled on the opposite bank of Lake Vembanad from Alleppey, Kumarakom is the perfect place to slow down and experience the backwaters (from shore) at their most peaceful. The lake is large and looks like an inland sea, providing the perfect backdrop for beautiful sunsets over the water. Kumarakom is also one of the locations where Kerala tourism is implementing more sustainable measures: many hotels and tour companies are part of an initiative to minimise their environmental impact and make sure that products are procured locally where possible, helping to maximise the economic benefit that goes back to locals.

Things to do in Kumarakom

Enjoy life at a slow pace – possibly the best thing to do in Kumarakom is – not much! Our best memories were of sitting back and watching the sunset from the serenity of Coconut Lagoon (below). Taking a quiet stroll along the backwaters and through villages is a great way to get a sense of local life here.

Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary –  This is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India, with many rare species being sighted particularly during the monsoon months of June, July and August.

Where to Stay in Kumarakom

We loved our stay at Coconut Lagoon , one of CGH Earth’s most beautiful properties. The experience here is unique, the only way to arrive and leave here is by boat. The resort has been hard at work at sustainability too, and is part of the Kumarakom responsible tourism initiatives. Wake up to the sight of passing boats and the resort’s own rare breed “lawnmowers” (aka cows). There’s also a renowned Ayurveda centre on property.

Find more info and book Coconut Lagoon here .

Getting to and from Kumarakom

One way to reach Kumarakom is by boat, there is a ferry service to Muhamma on the other side of Lake Vembanand, near Marari beach. Services are not that regular though, so you may find taxi / private transfer is the easiest way to get here. There is no train station or direct buses to Kumarakom. 

Kollam (formerly known as Quillon) is another quiet alternative for exploring Kerala’s backwaters, this time from the southern end, and it’s also a colourful former fishing town set on the Arabian sea. It’s a great place to get off Kerala’s beaten tourist path for a couple of days if you want something a bit different. Outside our guesthouse, we didn’t see any other foreigners during the three days we spent here. 

Things to do in Kollam

Ashtamudi Lake –  Away from from the beach and on the other side of Kollam lies Ashtamudi lake, which forms the southern end of Kerala’s backwaters. The lake offers opportunities for boat trips to Monroe island in the lake and exploring village life – there are fishing villages dotted around the lake. The government run boat trips are cheaper than the same itinerary offered by private companies. There’s also a ferry that goes all the way to Alleppey from Kollam. 

Beach & Tangasseri Lighthouse –  head a little south of the centre of Kollam and there’s a beach (nothing spectacular) and a pretty fishing harbour filled with colourful boats. Tangasseri lighthouse, standing tall in red and white stripes is a good lookout point across the town and out to sea – climb up the stairs for your daily dose of cardio. A visit just before sunset provides the best light. 

Where to Stay in Kollam

We struck gold with our choice of Ashtamudi Villas, a small and peaceful retreat with about eight bungalows on the banks of Ashtamudi lake. The resort is largely eco-friendly, with a focus on using natural materials and reducing waste, and it is the perfect spot for lounging in the gardens in a hammock and just reading a book while fishermen pass in their dug out canoes just a few meters away. Mr Joseph, the owner, also runs boat trips to small channels and villages around the lake. 

Find more info and book Ashtamudi Villas here .  

In the south of Kerala along the Arabian sea, Varkala is fast becoming the new hippie destination of south India – some would say the next Goa. Set atop cliffs, Varkala is the place for sunsets, yoga, ayurveda and perfect turmeric lattes. We didn’t make it to Varkala, but given the number of people who told us we should go, we thought we’d include it in this guide! If you have tips to add, let us know in the comments section below. Alcohol is officially not permitted in Varkala, although you may find some places serving it. Seeing as tourism in Varkala is booming, so is a problem with plastic waste and (over) development. Please do your bit by avoiding plastic bottles wherever possible. 

Need a bit more help with your Kerala trip? We recommend G Adventures Tours. Find out more here!

Things to do in Varkala

The Beach –  we’ll start with the obvious, many come to Varkala to sit back and enjoy some sun, sea and sand. Varkala’s beach is set below cliffs – beaches become quieter and cleaner if you venture further north or south from town. Do watch out for currents and big waves while swimming as the waters here are known to be treacherous. 

Take to the Waves –  Surfing outfit Soul & Surf (who we loved during our visit to Sri Lanka ) offer surfing retreats, courses and lessons combined with yoga, massage and music. They work to minimise their impact and work with as many locals as possible. Their base in Varkala is at the top of the cliff, with prime view out to the ocean. More info here . 

Anjengo Fort & Lighthouse –  Sometimes spelt as Anchuthengu, 10km south of Varkala, this fort was built in 1696 as the first Malabar stronghold for the British East India company. Climb up the nearby lighthouse for views down onto the fort and coastline. 

Eat and Juice your way around town –  Varkala is full of trendy juice bars and organic cafes (the wifi may or not work), perfect for reading a book or a day away from the beach. 

Take time for yourself  with a yoga or ayurveda retreat – Ayurveda and Yoga options about in Varkala and there are many to choose from. Some offer one off treatments whereas others offer week+ long detox programs. Book Ayurveda and Yoga retreats in Varkala here . 

Where to Stay in Varkala

Puccini Lala Eco resort has an art cafe and eco friendly mud rooms, and is a conscious / sustainable living concept. They also offer healing and cooking classes. 

More info and book Puccini Lala here . 

The Bohemian Masala is an alternative eco retreat that has been built as handcrafted tribal herbal cottages – using a mixture of mud and traditional ayurvedic herbs that are sure to provide a restful and healing night’s sleep. The huts are set in gardens filled with hammocks and quiet spots for reading and relaxation. 

More info and book Bohemian Masala here . 

Getting to and from Varkala

The best way to reach and leave Varkala is by train; trains leave for Kollam, Alleppey and Ernakulam to the north, and to Trivandrum to the south (which has regular connections). There are also buses to Trivandrum and Kollam. 

Have you been to Kerala or are you adding it to your “ bucket list”? Let us know about your Kerala experiences in the comments below. 

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Kerala: Thrissur set for Pulikali today; Traffic restrictions to be imposed in city

Thrissur's iconic Swaraj Round will witness the excitement of Pulikali (Tiger Dance) today, with over 350 performers divided into seven groups. The event, led by the Patturaikkal troupe, will see enhanced security and restricted vehicle access.

Thrissur: Thrissur's Swaraj Round will come alive today (Sep 18) as over 350 "Pulikali" (Tiger Dance) performers take to the streets to thrill the crowds. The event will kick off with the "Patturaikkal" troupe leading the way around Swaraj Round. In preparation for the festival, police have strengthened security measures, and vehicles will not be allowed into the area. The performers will be divided into seven groups for the event, ensuring a vibrant and exciting celebration in Shakthan’s land.

The preparations for the Pulikali troupes are in full swing, with body painting underway since the morning. Each troupe consists of 35 to 51 tigers. By around 3 PM, the groups will begin their parade from their respective locations. The official flag-off will take place at 5 PM when the Patturaikkal troupe enters Naikkanal. After that, the groups will proceed towards the Swaraj Round one by one. The first prize for the best troupe includes an 8-foot tall trophy and Rs 62,500. There are also awards for costume design, discipline, and drumming performances.

The top performers will receive awards across various categories, including 'best group,' 'best costume,' 'best tiger vehicle (pulvini),' discipline, tableau, and more.

As part of the event, exhibitions showcasing the "chamayam," or the costumes and decorations, are held at various locations in Thrissur. These expos are organized by different 'desams' (local groups) participating in Pulikali and display the vibrant costumes that will be worn by the performers.  

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കേരളത്തിലെ വിവിധ ജില്ലകളിൽ നിന്നും കെഎസ്ആർടിസി ബജറ്റ് ടൂറിസം യാത്ര

മനോരമ ലേഖകൻ

Published: September 18 , 2024 12:12 PM IST

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അവധിക്കാല യാത്രകൾ ചെയ്യാൻ ആഗ്രഹിക്കുന്നവർക്ക് കെഎസ്ആർടിസി ബജറ്റ് ടൂറിസം സെല്ലിന്റെ നേതൃത്വത്തിൽ കേരളത്തിലെ വിവിധ ജില്ലകളിൽ നിന്നുള്ള യാത്രാ പാക്കേജുകൾ തിരഞ്ഞെടുക്കാം. പശ്ചിമഘട്ടത്തിന്റെ മധ്യത്തിൽ നിൽക്കുന്ന കോന്നി-അടവി ഇക്കോ ടൂറിസം, സന്ദർശകരെ പ്രകൃതിയുടെ നിശബ്ദ സൗന്ദര്യത്തിലേക്കു സ്വാഗതം ചെയ്യുന്നു. അടവിയിലെ പ്രധാന ആകർഷണം കല്ലാർ നദിയിലൂടെയുള്ള കുട്ടവഞ്ചി സവാരിയാണ്. കോന്നി ഇക്കോ ടൂറിസത്തിന്റെ ഭാഗമാണ് അടവി ഇക്കോ ടൂറിസം. നിബിഡ വനത്തിലൂടെ ഒഴുകുന്ന കല്ലാർ പുഴയിലെ കുട്ടവഞ്ചി സവാരി വളരെ മനോഹരമാണ്. അതുപോലെതന്നെ കണ്ണിനു കുളിർമയേകുന്ന കാഴ്ചകൾ നൽകുന്ന യാത്രയാണ് ഗവിയും പരുന്തുംപാറയും.

നിത്യഹരിത വനങ്ങൾ നിറഞ്ഞ ഗവി സമുദ്രനിരപ്പിൽനിന്നു മൂവായിരത്തിലേറെ അടി ഉയരത്തിൽ സ്ഥിതി ചെയ്യുന്നതു കൊണ്ടു തന്നെ കടുത്ത വേനലിൽ പോലും കുളിർമയാണ്. പരുന്തുംപാറയുടെ മനോഹാരിതയും നുകർന്നുള്ള യാത്രയാണിത്. 

യാത്രയ്ക്കുള്ള ടിക്കറ്റ് ബുക്കിങ് ആരംഭിച്ചു കഴിഞ്ഞു. ഉല്ലാസയാത്രയുടെ  വിവരങ്ങളെ കുറിച്ചറിയുന്നതിനും സീറ്റുകൾ ബുക്ക് ചെയ്യുന്നതിനും കൂടുതൽ വിവരങ്ങൾക്കും

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• A man in Kerala, suspected of having monkey pox, has been isolated after showing symptoms of the disease, which include skin rashes and flu-like symptoms.
• In response, the government has advised states to screen and test for the disease, while the World Health Organization has prequalified a vaccine.
• The disease can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal.

Kerala man with travel history shows suspected monkey pox symptoms

A man in Malappuram district, Kerala , who recently returned from Dubai , has been admitted to a government hospital with suspected monkey pox (mpox) symptoms. If confirmed, this would be India's second case of the disease. The patient was initially treated at a private hospital before being transferred to Manjeri Medical College due to suspected mpox. His samples have been sent to Kozhikode Medical College for testing.

First case of monkey pox reported in Haryana

Earlier this week, a 26-year-old man from Haryana tested positive for mpox after returning from a country experiencing an outbreak. The patient is currently stable and has been isolated in a facility. He was confirmed to have the "Clade II" strain of the Monkeypox virus. This strain is not part of the current public health emergency declared by the World Health Organization (WHO), according to the Union Health Ministry.

Centre issues advisory to states and Union territories

In response to the mpox cases, the Centre has advised states and Union territories to screen and test all suspected cases in their communities. They have also been instructed to identify isolation facilities in hospitals for both suspects and confirmed patients. "While all States are requested...to make communities aware about the disease, its mode of spread...it is crucial that any undue panic amongst the masses is prevented," stated Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra in an advisory letter.

WHO prequalifies 1st vaccine against monkey pox

Separately, the WHO has declared mpox a public health emergency and prequalified the MVA-BN vaccine, manufactured by Bavarian Nordic A/S, as a preventive measure against monkey pox. "The prequalification approval is expected to facilitate timely...increased access to this vital product in communities with urgent need, to reduce transmission and help contain the outbreak," an official WHO release said. The disease is characterized by skin rashes all over the body that leave behind deep lesions and scars, fever, and flu-like symptoms.

What are the symptoms of mpox

The WHO has said that the common symptoms of mpox are a skin rash or mucosal lesions which can last 2-4 weeks accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes. According to WHO, mpox can be transmitted through close contact with someone who has mpox, with contaminated materials, or with infected animals.

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મંકીપોક્સના વધુ એક કેસે ભારતની વધારી ચિંતા, દુબઈથી કેરળ આવેલો મુસાફર પોઝિટિવ હોવાનું સામે આવતા ઍલર્ટ

Updated: Sep 18th, 2024

First Mpox Case Confirmed in Kerala : કેરળમાં મંકીપોક્સનો પહેલો કેસ નોંધાયો છે. કેરળ સરકારના મતે, યુએઈથી પરત ફરેલા એક 38 વર્ષીય શખ્સમાં મંકીપોક્સનું સંક્રમણ માલુમ પડ્યું છે. હાલ મલ્લપુરમ જિલ્લામાં તેની સારવાર ચાલી રહી છે. ગયા અઠવાડિયે મંકીપોક્સ જેવા લક્ષણો ધરાવતી એક વ્યક્તિને દિલ્હીની સફદરજંગ હૉસ્પિટલમાં દાખલ કરીને સારવાર અપાઈ હતી. નોંધનીય છે કે, ગયા મહિને જ વર્લ્ડ હેલ્થ ઑર્ગેનાઇઝેશને મંકીપોક્સને ઇમર્જન્સી જાહેર કરી હતી.

દુબઈથી કેરળ આવ્યો હતો આ વ્યક્તિ

જિલ્લા આરોગ્ય અધિકારીના જણાવ્યા  પ્રમાણે આ વ્યક્તિ હાલમાં જ દુબઈથી કેરળ આવ્યો હતો અને બીમાર પડતાં તેને હૉસ્પિટલમાં દાખલ કરવામાં આવ્યો હતો. એ પછી તેને મંજેરી મેડિકલ કૉલેજમાં દાખલ કરવામાં આવ્યો હતો. સંભવિત મંકીપોક્સ ચેપની શંકા હોવાના કારણે તેના સેમ્પલ લેવામાં આવ્યા છે. અને તે સેમ્પલને કોઝિકોડ મેડિકલ કૉલેજમાં પરીક્ષણ માટે મોકલવામાં આવ્યા છે.

દિલ્હીમાં પણ મંકીપોક્સનો કેસ નોંધાયો

રાષ્ટ્રીય રાજધાની દિલ્હીમાં ગયા અઠવાડિયે મંકીપોક્સનો એક નવો કેસ નોંધાયો હતો. હરિયાણાના હિસારના એક 26 વર્ષીય એક યુવકને વાયરસથી ચેપ લાગ્યો હતો. અને હાલમાં તેને દિલ્હી સરકારની એલએનજેપી હૉસ્પિટલમાં દાખલ કરવામાં આવ્યો હતો.

વિશ્વ આરોગ્ય સંસ્થાની ચેતવણીથી અલગ કેસ

કેન્દ્રીય આરોગ્ય મંત્રાલયે જણાવ્યું કે, ભારતમાં જુલાઈ 2022થી અત્યાર સુધીમાં કુલ 30 કેસ નોંધાયા છે, પરંતુ તે અલગ કેસ છે. આ ઉપરાંત મંત્રાલયે એ પણ સ્પષ્ટતા કરી હતી કે, આ કેસ વર્લ્ડ હેલ્થ ઑર્ગેનાઇઝેશન (WHO) દ્વારા જાહેર કરાયેલ પબ્લિક હેલ્થ ઇમરજન્સીથી અલગ છે, જે મંકીપોક્સના ક્લેડ 1 સાથે સંબંધિત છે. 

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Kerala's own airline: Air Kerala to take off soon

Dubai: The highly anticipated Air Kerala airline, conceived by a group of expatriate entrepreneurs and businessmen, has received NOC from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The authorities now hope to begin domestic services with just two aircraft by the first half of 2025. Businessman Afi Ahamed, chairman of the domestic airline company Zettflly said that the company will begin services to multiple locations including the Gulf region as soon as it acquires at least 20 aircraft. Kerala’s airline The Air Kerala project that was envisaged by the Oommen Chandy government was almost abandoned. However, the Air Kerala website was inaugurated last year. Now, the dream project has achieved a major milestone as it received the NOC from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

The expatriate dream Air Kerala was the dream project of the Malayali diaspora residing in foreign countries, especially in the Gulf region. Currently, Air Kerala has received the approval for operating domestic routes. It is hoped that the brand-new airline service may revolutionise Kerala's travel and tourism sector. Zettfly Aviation vice chairman Ayyub Kallada said that it may be possible to find effective solutions for travel crises faced by expatriates from Kerala, including exorbitant airfares, in the coming years. Connects tier 2 and tier 3 cities In the beginning, the airline would be operating services, connecting the tier 2 and 3 cities. For this, three ATR 72 – 600 aircraft would be used. Meanwhile, the authorities are looking to acquire aircraft directly from the manufacturers. Aviation experts from Kerala who have significant experience in the industry too would be considered for the posts in the company. The company plans to begin services to foreign countries by acquiring at least 20 aircraft. Meanwhile, the owners perceive Air Kerala as a gift to the Malayali expatriates. Appointments to the top posts including the CEO have been recommended; other announcements will soon follow.

The owners see the approval from the ministry as a significant achievement for the Malayali community. Interestingly, Air Kerala would be the first airline company to be based in Kerala. Besides, it would be the first company started by an expatriate. Afi Ahamed said that the company would be operating services under the brand name Air Kerala (airkerala.com). He noted that they have been planning to make all Malayalis, including expatriates, a part of this mega project. More than 350 career opportunities In the first year, the company hopes to create more than 350 employment opportunities in Kerala alone. Around a year ago, Afi Ahamed purchased the airkerala.com domain for 1 million dirhams (around Rs 2.2 crore). Company’s secretary Aashiq, general manager Zafeer Muhammad and legal advisor Shihab Thangal also attended the press meeting. 

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NOTIFICATIONS

भारत में Mpox का एक और केस, केरल में दुबई से लौटे शख्स का सैंपल पाया गया पॉजिटिव

भारत में एमपॉक्स का दूसरा मामला सामने आया है. इस बार यह मामला केरल से दर्ज किया गया है. स्वास्थ्य मंत्रालय ने बताया कि मरीज का इलाज अस्पताल में चल रहा है, और उसकी स्थिति को नियंत्रण में है..

• 18 सितंबर 2024,
• (अपडेटेड 18 सितंबर 2024, 6:54 PM IST)

केरल के मलप्पुरम में एक 38 वर्षीय शख्स में मंकीपॉक्स वायरस की पुष्टि हुई है. राज्य के स्वास्थ्य विभाग ने बताया कि इस व्यक्ति में दुबई से लौटने के बाद लक्षण दिखाई दिए थे. इसका पता चलने के बाद शख्स प्राइवेट अस्पताल में भर्ती हो गया था लेकिन बाद में उसे डेजिग्नेटेड अस्पताल में भर्ती कराया गया था. उसका सैंपल जांच के लिए भेजा गया था, जिससे वायरस की पुष्टि हुई.

राज्य की स्वास्थ्य मंत्री वीना जॉर्ज मंगलवार को जानकारी दी थी कि इस शख्स ने लक्षण देखे जाने के बाद परिवार से अलग रहने का फैसला किया था. उन्होंने बताया, "उनके सैंपल जांच के लिए भेजे गए और रिपोर्ट का इंतजार किया जा रहा था."

यह भी पढ़ें: केरल के मल्लपुरम में Mpox का संदिग्ध केस, दुबई से लौटा था शख्स

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केरल के मल्लपुरम में Mpox का संदिग्ध केस, दुबई से लौटा था शख्स 

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दुबई से केरल आया था शख्स

जिला स्वास्थ्य अधिकारी के मुताबिक, यह शख्स हाल ही में दुबई से केरल आया था और बीमार होने के बाद अस्पताल में भर्ती कराया गया था. बाद में उसे मंजेरी मेडिकल कॉलेज में भर्ती किया गया. संभावित मंकीपॉक्स संक्रमण की आशंका होने पर, उनके सैंपल कोझिकोड मेडिकल कॉलेज में जांच के लिए भेजे गए थे.

दिल्ली में भी दर्ज किया गया मंकीपॉक्स का केस

पिछले सप्ताह राष्ट्रीय राजधानी दिल्ली में मंकीपॉक्स का एक नया मामला सामने आया था. हरियाणा के हिसार का 26 वर्षीय शख्स इस वायरस से संक्रमित पाया गया और उसे दिल्ली सरकार के एलएनजेपी अस्पताल में भर्ती कराया गया था.

यह भी पढ़ें: Mpox के पुराने स्ट्रेन का क्या है अफ्रीका कनेक्शन? सबसे ज्यादा प्रभावित देश कौन सा है? जानिए कितनी वैक्सीन मौजूद

विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन की चेतावनी से अलग मामले

केंद्रीय स्वास्थ्य मंत्रालय ने इसे एक अलग मामला बताते हुए कहा था कि जुलाई 2022 से लेकर अब तक भारत में कुल 30 मामले दर्ज किए गए हैं. मंत्रालय ने यह भी स्पष्ट किया था कि यह मामला विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन (WHO) द्वारा घोषित मौजूदा पब्लिक हेल्थ इमरजेंसी से अलग था, जो मंकीपॉक्स के क्लेड 1 से जुड़ा है.

सबसे तेज़ ख़बरों के लिए आजतक ऐप