Kerala

Residing in a houseboat (Backwater cruise) and sailing through the quaint and charming backwaters is one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. The jaw-dropping backdrop, lush green plantations along the banks, and gorgeous Vembanad Lake (formed by convergence of 10 Malabar Rivers) pulls plenty of tourists to rent a houseboat and voyage in it.

Perfect for wildlife-viewing, bamboo rafting through the forests of Periyar Tiger Reserve is a thrilling experience. A trek starting at 8 am till the boat landing point, followed by a 3-hour rafting trip is bound to leave you on a high!

Alleppey is gifted with a unique crisscrossing network of canals that runs throughout the town which allows you to access and explore the entire area while you're relaxing on your houseboat.

If you are a foodie at heart, Kumarakom will not disappoint you. Tempting Kerala cuisine will certainly entice the soul and would spoil your taste buds for good.

Alleppey is not just the place popular for beaches, temples, shops, churches or other tourist spots. Rather it is one of the tourist destinations that can offer some delicious food items. Many tourists have liked and appreciated the quality of food served in the fine dining as well as the street food of Alleppey.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a small piece of heaven for nature lovers and bird watchers. Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, this preservation ground is a habitat to plenty of common as well as endangered species of residential and migratory birds. These include Siberian Cranes, Parrots, Herons, Owls, Egrets, Darters, and Waterfowls.

The peaceful glory of Kumarakom is enjoyed best by soothening of senses and relaxation of mind, body, and soul. With a plethora of Ayurvedic massages, Kumarakom is conceivably the idyllic rejuvenation destination.

Jew Town, a narrow street between Mattancherry Palace and the Synagogue, is a favourite haunt of antique hunters. Some of the most pristine and historically relevant artefacts of our times have been unearthed by our visitors here. While a huge bronze vessel catches your eye first, each of the shops here contains beautiful items with quirky and interesting stories.

This is an ancient traditional fighting system that originated in Kerala. The word “kalari” means battlefield and “payattu” refers to “become trained” or “to practice”. Thus traditionally people practising this art form were those who were trained for the battlefield.  It is considered by some to be the oldest martial art still in existence.

One of the major highlights of Kochi has to be the most iconic of all the dance forms in Kerala, a Kathakali performance. When going for Kathakali dance performance, visit 2 hours before the performance and see how they apply the elaborate makeup.

Trivandrum. The Endless City; Home to the royalty of Travancore; The Fabled City of Gold

Powerful queens and pious saints, haunted forts and blessed ponds, ghosts and ghastly nobles, great victory and despicable betrayal – it’s all a part of the glorious history of Trivandrum.

An early morning cycle ride in Fort Kochi where you get to see the city wake up. Join the locals for a hot brimming cup of tea as they start the day. Catch all the action with the hustle bustle in the fish market. Get a peek to the varied and diverse communities from faraway lands who have made Fort Kochi their home.

17 km from Thiruvananthapuram City, is a world famous beach, noted being one of the finest. There are 2 large beaches and highly safe for swimming. A visit to Kovalam is must for Trivandrum.

Nature walking and leisurely strolls along the lakeside while enjoying the mesmerizing backwater landscape is a perfect treat for the mind and soul; and one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. The lush green plantations, blue lake water, picture-perfect rural landscape and chirping of birds intoxicates the mind completely.

Guided day tours are the best way to explore Thekkady’s abundant nature. You can even enjoy a picnic in the picturesque land of Pandikuzhi or by the waterfalls at Chellarkovil.

Home to tea, coffee and pepper plantations, Vandiperiyar is one of the most popular places to visit. If you have time, head to Abraham’s Spice Garden (15 kilometres from Thekkady) and learn about spice cultivation and Ayurveda.

Ayurveda is not just a time-honoured medical science in Kerala. It’s a tradition, it’s a lifestyle and it’s a pivotal component that adds to the character of Kerala. The ancient philosophies of Ayurveda have travelled through thousands of years, introducing people to its remedial effect along the way.

Sunset is a time when the sky is painted in vibrant colors, lending an ethereal touch to nature. Backwaters in Kochi have been specially constructed for the leisure of the people. This promenade is the haunt of many people, who sit on the various benches provided and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

A walk across Fort Kochi where you will discover the real beauty of this place and get to know why for millennia this place has attracted travelers from around the world. Get to know about the explorers and their fascinating journeys that they undertook to reach this coastline. Understand how trade has influenced not just the culture of this place but also the local cuisine.

Thekkady is known to be a trekker’s paradise. Gear up for a day of adventure in the hills or trekking trails near Thekkady such as Kurisamala to Kumily and Kumily to Pandikuzhi.

In case you want to go local and do something totally offbeat, which most tourists don’t do then go to Fish market near Chinese Fishing nets.

The fisherman catches the fishes all day in the Arabian sea near Kochi. They return to shore with a fresh catch around evening.

Mattancherry, the western part of Kochi, was once a bustling centre of trade. Invasions from across the sea were frequent and the invaders left unforgettable marks on the landscape, culture, art and social history of the place. Mattancherry has welcomed every migrant community that came to her shore with warmth and provided them with abundant opportunities to thrive.

Kerala is a land of colorful culture and vibrant traditions. Kathakali – the traditional dance form – is an integral part of the Kerala culture and is practiced across the state. The bold dance form, its dynamic mudras, diverse facial expressions, and the charismatic accompanying rhythm make the ambiance magical and mythical.

Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race is a famous sport, which is attended by thousands of people, both tourists, and locals every year. The people of Kerala eagerly await this competition and preparations begin well in advance for the same. During this time, the otherwise calm and serene lake transforms into a battleground with boatmen from different villages competing for the prestigious trophy.