Travelling Kerala

This page shall provide ideas to you what to do during your travel. We also plan to provide our travel plan here soon. Maybe we will end up as a little travel group in the end or meet for some events, e.g. Christmas.

Travel plan wedding couple

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kochi
Further details will be added soon

Recommendations for places to visit in Kerala

Wayanad

Approx 267 km from hotel (6h 30 min by car)

A lush hill station known for its tea and spice plantations, waterfalls, and dense forests.Visit Edakkal Caves for prehistoric rock carvings and enjoy trekking at Chembra Peak.The region is rich in wildlife, including elephants, in nearby sanctuaries.

Wayanad Highlights

Wildlife Park:Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Spot elephants, leopards, and bison in lush forests.
Coffee Plantations: Numerous coffee and spice plantations; take guided tours to learn about cultivation and processing.
Retreat Options: Eco-resorts offering yoga, Ayurveda, and trekking experiences.

Kochi (Cochin)

A historic port city with colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and bustling markets. Explore Fort Kochi’s Chinese fishing nets, the Dutch Palace, and the Jewish Synagogue.

Kochi Highlights

Attractions: A historic city with Fort Kochi, Jewish Synagogue, and Chinese fishing nets.
Beaches: Cherai Beach is great for swimming, dolphin spotting, and relaxing.
Retreats: High-end spas and wellness centers in Fort Kochi specialize in Ayurvedic massages and yoga.

Munnar

Approx 128 km from hotel (3h 24 min by car)

A picturesque hill station renowned for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool climate. Visit the Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, and enjoy trekking opportunities.

Munnar Highlights

Attractions: Misty hills with expansive tea plantations, the Tea Museum, and trekking trails like Anamudi Peak.
Plantations: Known for its tea and small coffee estates.
Retreats: Resorts surrounded by tea gardens offer spa treatments and nature-inspired relaxation.

Kumarakom

Approx 45 km from hotel (1h by car)

A serene village near Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is famous for its backwaters and bird sanctuary.

Backwater Cruises: Explore the tranquil waterways on houseboats.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A haven for migratory birds like Siberian cranes.
Luxury Resorts: Enjoy Ayurvedic spas and lakeside retreats.

Allepey

Approx 48 km from hotel (1h 10 min by car)

Known as the ‚Venice of the East,‘ Alleppey is famous for its houseboat cruises along the tranquil backwaters, offering glimpses of village life and lush landscapes.

Allepey Highlights

Attractions: Famous for houseboat cruises along the backwaters, showcasing lush greenery and local village life.
Beaches: Marari Beach is a tranquil spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Retreats: Houseboat stays often include access to Ayurvedic therapies or nearby wellness centers.

Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)

Approx 200 km from hotel (4h 30 min by car)

Trivandrum, Kerala’s capital, blends modernity with tradition. It features the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple, cultural landmarks like the Napier Museum, and nearby Kovalam Beach for relaxation. The city is also known for Ayurvedic wellness and lush greenery.

Trivandrum Highlights

The capital city of Kerala, blending modernity with traditional charm.
Visit the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the richest Hindu temple in the world. Unfortunately, only people of the Hindu faith are allowed to visit the temple.
Nearby, explore Kovalam Beach and the historical Napier Museum.

Top Beaches

1. Kovalam Beach (Near Trivandrum)

Why Visit: Kerala’s most famous beach, known for its crescent-shaped coastline and three adjoining beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach.
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and Ayurvedic massages.
Highlights: The iconic Lighthouse, beachfront restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

2. Varkala Beach

Why Visit: Famous for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, this beach is both scenic and serene.
Activities: Yoga, meditation, and enjoying the sunset from cliffside cafes.
Highlights: Papanasam Beach, believed to have spiritual and healing properties.

3. Marari Beach (Near Alleppey)

Why Visit: A quiet and pristine beach, perfect for relaxation and escaping crowds.
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and exploring nearby fishing villages.
Highlights: Luxury resorts and Ayurvedic spas set amidst a tranquil environment.

4. Cherai Beach (Near Kochi)

Why Visit: A family-friendly beach with shallow waters, ideal for swimming and dolphin spotting.
Activities: Beach volleyball, water sports, and cycling along the coastline.
Highlights: The blend of backwaters and beach scenery.

5. Bekal Beach (Near Bekal Fort)

Why Visit: A serene beach with golden sands and the historic Bekal Fort overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Activities: Walking along the shoreline, enjoying panoramic views, and photography.
Highlights: Proximity to the fort and luxury resorts offering wellness therapies.

Top Wildlife parks

1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady)

Why Visit: One of India’s most famous tiger reserves, set around the picturesque Periyar Lake.
Key Animals: Elephants, tigers, gaurs, wild boars, and leopards.
Activities: Boat safaris on Periyar Lake, bamboo rafting, and guided nature walks.

2. Eravikulam National Park (Munnar)

Why Visit: Known for its lush grasslands and the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Key Animals: Nilgiri Tahr, leopards, Indian muntjacs, and a variety of butterflies and birds.
Activities: Wildlife spotting, trekking, and seasonal viewing of the Neelakurinji flowers (once every 12 years).

3. Silent Valley National Park (Palakkad)

Why Visit: A pristine rainforest and biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats.
Key Animals: Lion-tailed macaques, tigers, leopards, Malabar giant squirrels, and Nilgiri langurs.
Activities: Jeep safaris, trekking, and birdwatching in a tranquil environment.

4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Wayanad)

Why Visit: A part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, known for its rich wildlife.
Key Animals: Elephants, tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and various species of deer.
Activities: Jeep safaris, birdwatching, and exploring spice plantations nearby.

Cultural activites

1. Watch a Kathakali Performance

What: A classical dance-drama known for elaborate costumes, vibrant makeup, and expressive storytelling.
Where: Cultural centers in Kochi, Thekkady, or Trivandrum.
Why: It narrates stories from Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana in a visually stunning way.

2. Attend a Theyyam Ritual

What: An ancient form of ritual worship and performance art where performers embody deities.
Where: Temples in North Kerala, especially Kannur and Kasaragod.
Why: Offers a rare insight into Kerala’s tribal traditions and spiritual practices.

3. Learn Kalaripayattu (Martial Arts)

What: One of the oldest martial arts in the world, combining combat techniques with yoga and Ayurveda.
Where: Training centers in Wayanad, Thekkady, and Kochi.
Why: Offers an engaging way to connect with Kerala’s ancient warrior traditions.

4. Visit a Traditional Kerala Home (Nalukettu)

What: Explore traditional Kerala architecture, including wooden homes with courtyards.
Where: Thrissur and Palakkad are great places to visit heritage homes.
Why: Understand Kerala’s traditional lifestyle, craftsmanship, and sustainable design principles.

5. Enjoy a Traditional Sadya Feast

What: A vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with over 20 dishes, including rice, curries, pickles, and desserts.
Where: Served during festivals and special occasions in restaurants or households.
Why: It’s a culinary journey into Kerala’s authentic flavors.

6. Visit Coir and Handloom Villages

What: Learn how coir products and handwoven textiles are made using traditional methods.
Where: Coir villages in Alleppey and handloom centers in Kannur or Thrissur.
Why: Witness local craftsmanship and support rural artisans.

7. Attend a Mohiniyattam Dance Show

What: A graceful classical dance form that originated in Kerala, performed by women.
Where: Cultural programs in Trivandrum, Kochi, or Thrissur.
Why: Known as the “dance of the enchantress,” it’s both elegant and mesmerizing.

8. Visit Spice Plantations

What: Tour plantations where spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves are grown.
Where: Thekkady, Wayanad, and Munnar.
Why: Learn about Kerala’s spice heritage and its role in global trade.

Events in December

1. Cochin Carnival (Fort Kochi)

Dates: December 23 – January 1
Highlights: Colorful parades, music, dance performances, fireworks, and various competitions. The event concludes with grand New Year’s celebrations.
Why Visit: The carnival showcases the multicultural spirit of Kerala with vibrant festivities.

2. Vaikathashtami Festival (Vaikom Mahadeva Temple)

Dates: Varies (December, based on the Malayalam calendar)
Highlights: Rituals and ceremonies dedicated to Lord Shiva at the historic Vaikom Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam.
Why Visit: It’s an opportunity to witness Kerala’s devotional traditions in a spiritually charged atmosphere.

3. Thiruvathira Festival

Dates: December–January (Malayalam month of Dhanu)
Highlights: Women perform the traditional Thiruvathirakkali dance and observe fasting rituals in honor of Lord Shiva.
Why Visit: This festival provides a glimpse into Kerala’s traditional dance and customs, especially for women.

4. Theyyam Performances (North Kerala) – Not recommended for kids!

Dates: December to April (specific dates vary by temple)
Highlights: Ritualistic art form where performers become deities, offering blessings and performing in elaborate costumes.
Why Visit: Primarily in Kannur and Kasaragod, it’s a spectacular cultural and spiritual experience unique to Kerala.

5. Christmas Celebrations

Dates: December 25 (seasonal celebrations throughout December)
Highlights: Churches are beautifully decorated, with midnight masses, carol singing, and feasts. Cities like Kochi and Trivandrum celebrate with grandeur.
Why Visit: Kerala’s significant Christian population makes Christmas a lively and festive time to visit.

6. Malabar River Festival (Kannur)

Dates: December (specific dates vary)
Highlights: River-based adventure sports like kayaking and rafting.
Why Visit: Perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking to explore Kerala’s rivers and natural beauty.

Hotels we can recommend

Kochi

Le Méridien Kochi
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/cokmd-le-meridien-kochi/overview/

Allepey

Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey: https://www.sterlingholidays.com/resorts-hotels/lake-palace-alleppey