Kerala, a tropical paradise tucked away in the southern part of India, beckons travellers for an intimate rendezvous with its serene environs. It has everything that a traveller can ask for. Visitors come here to marvel at the rustic houses and palm-fringed landscapes by the backwaters, while relaxing in a modern houseboat. You can also get close to rare untamed animals at the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady or immerse yourself in the vivacious celebrations of the famed festival of Onam on a fun-filled Kerala holiday. What’s more, the enchanting hill station of Munnar offers an amalgamation of picturesque beauty and romantic tranquility. And just when you think you have seen enough, a relaxing Ayurvedic massage awaits you in a luxurious spa to unwind your mind and body. However, if you have limited time in hand, the top things to do in Kerala are:
Cruising on Backwaters of Alappuzha
Beaches can be found in almost every part of South India, but there is nothing that can match the grandeur of Kerala backwaters. And one of the best experiences awaits travellers in Alappuzha. Head inside a revived kettuvallam, a huge rice barge that takes you through a large network of canals and presents before you a majestic vista never seen before. Move to the Vembanad Lake and marvel at a line of long paddy fields, coconut lagoons, small islands and huge flocks of ducks making their way to the newly-harvested fields. Just drop in at one of the villages on the banks and savour some of the ethnic cuisine, especially the seafood delicacies.
Explore Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady
Just like the Kerala houseboats, Periyar too is a lifetime experience. One of the finest wildlife reserves in India, the region is blesses with lush green tea, cardamom, pepper, and coffee plantations. Witness here the only South Indian conifer called Podocarpus wallichianus (scientifically), besides exploring more than 1965 flowering plants and 35 species of wild animals like the Asian elephant, tiger, sambar deer, leopard, etc. Get a chance to sight the endangered lion tailed macaque, deep inside the evergreen forests. Marvel at a number of exotic birds such as the Malabar grey hill, the Indian pied hornbill, and others on your Kerala adventure holiday.
Visit Enchanting Munnar
It’s the varied aesthetic aspects of Kerala that render it a diverse touch. One of them is the marvellous hill station of Munnar. Its idyllic ambience compels holidaymakers to boast about its mesmerizing locales. Visit the sprawling tea plantations here and get a chance to sight the rare species of Nilgiri tahr, an ungulate only found in the Nilgiri hills in the Eravikulam National Park. If you are lucky, you can also see Neelakurinji, a purple blooming shrub that grows once in every 12 years. In addition, climb up the Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India and enjoy boat rides in Mattupetty, 13 kms off the Munnar town. There are also various trekking options which travellers can take advantage of.
Celebrate Onam
Immersing yourself completely in the biggest festival of the state that lasts for more than two weeks. Ornate elephants, musicians and performers dressed in traditional and colourful attire take part in a street parade that enthralls your senses. Get dumbfounded after having a look at the grand carpets featuring elaborate work made every year in the honour of the mythical King Mahabali. What’s more? Admire drama and dance shows, folk art, savour cuisines in the food stalls and pay a visit to the handicraft fairs on a Kerala family tour package.
Kerala Ayurveda Massage
Kerala is blessed with the tradition and science of Ayurveda. So, while you are here, don’t forget to visit any of the various spa centres lying in almost every region. Take advantage of century-old therapies such as a rejuvenating panchakarma session or invigorating Rasayana Chikitsa to restore your health.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your suitcases and take a Kerala holiday package to enjoy these luxuries on your own.
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