Kerala, often referred to as ‘God’s Own Country,’ is a picturesque state in the southwestern part of India. It is renowned for its lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. It’s a great place to visit for those looking to escape modern life and experience an entirely different side of the world.
In this article, we will highlight the 9 best things to do in Kerala that will make your visit to this Indian state exceptional. From delving into the historic cities of the region to floating along the backwaters in a houseboat, there are so many wonderful experiences to be had which will make you fall in love with the beauty of Kerala.
Kerala is brimming with history that begs to be discovered. From the fishing nets of Kochi to the excavations at Muziris, the lived past is at your fingertips.
Kerala is an exceptional place to visit for history buffs and we highlight some of the best places to visit if you want to learn more.
Fort Kochi is a historic neighbourhood located in the city of Kochi (Cochin) in Kerala. This coastal area is known for its extensive history, colonial architecture, diverse culture and scenic beauty. For the best experience, consider booking a guided tour of the district which will take you to the top sites and hidden gems.
Kochi was a significant port city for centuries and was influenced by various colonial powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch and British. This rich heritage is reflected in its architecture, which features well-preserved Portuguese houses, Dutch cottages and British bungalows. It’s this unique blend of styles which makes Kochi such a stunning city to visit.
One of the iconic symbols of Fort Kochi is the Chinese fishing nets that dot the shoreline. These massive, fixed fishing nets are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century and are still in use today. Make sure to grab a picture of them, especially at sunset, for a show-stopping photo of your visit.
Muziris, also known as Kodungallur, is a historically significant region in Kerala that was once a bustling seaport and a major centre for trade and commerce in ancient India. It is renowned for its rich heritage, ancient trade connections and archaeological treasures and is a great place to explore the history of India and take a walk through the distant past.
There is so much to experience in Muzuris that you could easily spend a whole day exploring. Some of the best places to visit are Pattanam, an ongoing archaeological excavation site, and Kottapuram Fort, a Portuguese fort built in the 16th century. There are also several museums in the region which provide further insight into its historical significance.
Visiting Muziris allows you to step back in time and discover the fascinating history of this ancient trading hub. It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to offer a unique and enriching experience for travellers interested in exploring Kerala’s roots.
To make the most of your visit to Muziris, consider taking guided tours that provide historical context into the significance of the various sites.
One of the top things to do in Kerala is to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this Indian state. There are so many fabulous traditions to experience that will make you feel connected to the locals and their customs.
Below, we highlight some of the best cultural experiences in Kerala that will leave an indelible impression upon your visit.
Kathakali and Theyyam are two distinct traditional performing arts that originated from Kerala. Both are deeply rooted in Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, offering unique and vibrant experiences for both performers and audiences.
Kathakali is a highly stylized and dramatic dance-drama form that combines elements of dance, music, acting and costumes. It is known for its colourful and intricate makeup, as well as the use of symbolic hand gestures and facial expressions to convey emotions and tell stories. You can enjoy a Kathakali performance alongside dinner for a spectacular evening activity.
Theyyam, on the other hand, is a ritualistic folk art form that is predominantly practised in the northern part of Kerala, particularly in the Malabar region. Unlike Kathakali, Theyyam is not a stage performance but a form of worship where performers become living deities during the rituals. It is an integral part of the cultural and religious traditions of Kerala that revolves around the worship of ancestral spirits, gods, and goddesses.
Watching these unique performances is a great way to tap into Kerala’s spirited culture and provides a fascinating experience that will remain with you long after you leave.
If you’re eager to experience the colourful rituals of Kerala on your visit, we suggest timing your trip with one of the many religious festivals that take place across the region. They are spectacles of worship and community that will leave a lasting impression and will certainly be the highlight of your visit.
The largest and most grandiose of these festivals is Thrissur Pooram, held at Thekkinkadu Maidanam in Thrissur. Occurring in April or May depending on the year, the festival is a colourful display of culture and tradition that pays homage to the deity Shiva.
Elephants adorned in golden decorations are ridden by performers who exchange brightly coloured umbrellas. The whole event is accompanied by percussion instruments that play varying tempos which adds to the spiritual atmosphere. It is one of the most popular festivals in Kerala, so expect to see large crowds and don’t hesitate to get involved in the festivities.
A great way to delve into the culture of Kerala is to treat yourself to an Ayurvedic treatment. Ayurveda is an ancient system of holistic healing that focuses on achieving balance and wellness in the body, mind, and spirit. It’s one of the best things to do in Kerala if you want to feel rejuvenated and pampered.
Before any treatment, you’ll have a consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor who will assess your physical and mental health, medical history and dosha (body constitution). This consultation helps determine the most suitable treatments and therapies for your specific needs and ensures you will have a healing experience.
After the consultation, the Ayurvedic doctor will create a personalised treatment plan tailored to address your health concerns and goals. Ayurvedic centres in Kerala are typically located in serene and natural settings, providing a peaceful and calming environment that promotes healing and relaxation. It’s a great way to experience local customs as well as treat yourself with some soothing therapy.
The backwaters are an iconic part of Kerala and should not be missed on your visit to the region. Calming cruises along the water allow you to take in the scenery at a relaxed pace and boar races offer a look into the vibrant local community.
In this section, we expand on what the backwaters can bring to your visit and why it’s one of the best things to do in Kerala.
Kerala is often referred to as the “Venice of the East” due to its intricate network of canals, lakes, and lagoons. Houseboat cruises in Kerala are a popular way to experience the beauty and tranquillity of the state’s backwaters as they allow visitors to explore these waterways while enjoying a comfortable and leisurely journey.
The most popular destination for houseboat cruises is Alleppey, but you can also find them in other backwater regions like Kumarakom, Kollam, and Kottayam. Houseboat cruises typically follow a predetermined route, taking you through serene backwaters, picturesque villages and lush landscapes. The duration of these cruises can vary from a few hours to multiple days, which makes them suitable for any itinerary.
While on a houseboat cruise, you can engage in activities like birdwatching, fishing or simply enjoying the scenery. It’s a memorable way to explore the backwaters and experience the laid-back lifestyle of Kerala. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation or a peaceful retreat, a houseboat cruise in Kerala will appeal to every traveller.
While the waterways offer a serene environment to unwind and take in the natural beauty of Kerala, they are also the setting for an exhilarating regional event. Snake Boat races are a traditional water sport in Kerala that involve long, narrow, boats that are up to 30 metres in length and are manned by a large team of rowers.
The races have a long history in Kerala and are deeply rooted in the state’s culture and traditions. They were originally organised as a way for local rulers and chieftains to showcase their prowess and compete for supremacy. Over time, these races evolved into a popular and colourful sporting event.
Attending a snake boat race is a thrilling experience. The atmosphere is electric, with thousands of spectators lining the banks of the waterway, cheering for their favourite teams. You will be enthralled by this celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit which brings together so many people from different backgrounds.
Kerala’s stunning natural landscapes entice travellers from all over the world. It’s an idyllic region that allows you to disconnect from modern life and enjoy the wonders of nature’s beauty.
If you’re a nature lover, Kerala is sure to amaze you with its verdant scenery. Below, we highlight some of the best places to visit in Kerala that are perfect for spending time in the great outdoors.
Due to the warm climate in Kerala, tea production is a thriving industry dating as far back as 1875. One of the best places to learn about tea and its importance is Munnar, a hill station known for its verdant tea plantations.
Munnar is the most famous tea-producing region in Kerala and is often referred to as the ‘Tea Garden of Kerala’. The landscape is punctuated by rolling hills, dense forests, and waterfalls, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers and photographers.
You can take a guided tour of the tea gardens, visit factories to see the tea-making process and enjoy tea tasting sessions which reveal the distinct flavours and aromas of Kerala’s tea.
Munnar also has a couple of tea museums that provide further insights into the history and heritage of tea cultivation in the region. The Tata Tea Museum and KDHP Tea Museum are popular attractions for those interested in finding out more about the importance of tea production in Kerala.
Eravikulam National Park is a protected area located in the Idukki and Devikulam districts of Kerala. It is part of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
The park covers an area of approximately 97 square kilometres and is primarily composed of grasslands, sholas and rocky cliffs. There are well-marked hiking trails in the park that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty and wildlife. The most popular trekking route is the one leading to the Rajamalai viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the park and its surroundings.
The standout feature of Eravikulam is its vibrant displays of Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every twelve years. These purple blossoms are a magical sight and offer a truly one-of-a-kind travel experience for anyone who adores nature.
Eravikulam National Park is also the primary habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr, a high-altitude mountain goat species that is endemic to the Western Ghats. The park was established in 1978 to protect this endangered species and it now harbours a thriving population. The park is often closed during the breeding season to protect the animals, so don’t plan on visiting from January to March.
Kerala’s unique blend of traditions, nature and tranquillity makes it a destination that promises to amaze anyone who chooses to visit. Whether you desire cultural immersion, relaxation or adventure, Kerala offers a diverse range of opportunities that will leave you enchanted by its remarkable charm.
So, plan your visit to Kerala and embark on a journey of discovery and wonder in this captivating corner of India.
If you’ve enjoyed this article be sure to check out our other posts about India where you’ll find the best travel tips and helpful hacks.
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