Kerala, the “God’s Own Country,” is renowned for its stunning backwaters, lush greenery, and vibrant culture. However, the beauty of Kerala extends beyond its borders. Surrounding this enchanting state are numerous hidden gems and popular destinations that offer a diverse range of experiences. Exploring these nearby places can enrich your Kerala journey and provide unforgettable memories.
Overview
This guide delves into some of the best places to visit near Kerala, catering to various interests. From historical sites and hill stations to beaches and wildlife sanctuaries, there’s something for everyone. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these destinations promise an enriching experience.
Categories of Destinations
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Hill Stations:
Escape the heat and immerse yourself in the cool, misty embrace of hill stations like Munnar, Thekkady, and Wayanad. Enjoy breathtaking views, tea plantations, and wildlife encounters.
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Beaches:
Unwind on pristine beaches like Kovalam, Varkala, and Bekal. Swim in the turquoise waters, soak up the sun, and indulge in water sports.
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Historical Sites:
Step back in time and explore ancient forts, palaces, and temples. Discover the rich history and heritage of places like Kochi, Thrissur, and Guruvayur.
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Wildlife Sanctuaries:
Embark on a wildlife adventure in sanctuaries like Periyar, Eravikulam, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Spot elephants, tigers, and a plethora of other fascinating creatures.
Best Places to Visit Near Kerala
Kerala, the “God’s Own Country,” is renowned for its lush greenery, serene backwaters, and vibrant culture. But beyond its borders lie equally captivating destinations that offer a diverse range of experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these places near Kerala are sure to leave you spellbound.
Hill Stations
Kerala’s proximity to the Western Ghats provides access to some of India’s most breathtaking hill stations.
Munnar
Nestled amidst rolling tea plantations, Munnar offers a tranquil escape.
Witness the beauty of tea gardens sprawling across the hillsides.
Explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the Mattupetty Lake.
Thekkady
Adventure enthusiasts will find their haven in Thekkady, known for its Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Embark on a wildlife safari to spot elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species.
Experience the thrill of trekking through the dense forests.
Visit the spice plantations and learn about the region’s aromatic heritage.
Wayanad
Wayanad, a district in northern Kerala, boasts stunning landscapes and ancient caves. (See Also: Nice Places To Visit Near Barcelona)
Explore the Edakkal Caves, adorned with prehistoric rock carvings.
Hike to the Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, for panoramic views.
Visit the Soochipara Falls, a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Beaches
Kerala’s coastline is dotted with pristine beaches, each offering a unique charm.
Kovalam
Kovalam, a popular beach destination, is known for its crescent-shaped shores and Ayurvedic spas.
Relax on the golden sands and soak up the sun.
Enjoy water sports such as surfing, swimming, and parasailing.
Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage.
Varkala
Varkala, a cliff-side town, offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Witness the mesmerizing sunset from the cliffs.
Visit the ancient Janardhanaswamy Temple, perched on a clifftop.
Relax on the serene beaches and enjoy the tranquility.
Bekal
Bekal, known for its historic fort, boasts a picturesque beach with calm waters.
Explore the Bekal Fort, a 17th-century fort with panoramic views.
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and watersports in the tranquil waters.
Visit the nearby Kappil Beach, famous for its backwater lagoon.
Cultural Destinations
Kerala’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its numerous temples, palaces, and museums. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Florence Italy)
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Located in Thiruvananthapuram, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the richest temples in the world.
Marvel at the intricate architecture and religious significance.
Witness the daily rituals and offerings.
Explore the temple’s vast treasure vaults.
Mattancherry Palace
The Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a historic landmark in Kochi.
Admire the stunning murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
Learn about the palace’s history and the Dutch influence in Kerala.
Explore the royal chambers and artifacts.
Kerala Folklore Museum
Located in Kochi, the Kerala Folklore Museum offers a glimpse into the state’s traditional way of life.
Discover a collection of artifacts, costumes, and musical instruments.
Learn about the folklore, customs, and beliefs of Kerala.
Experience the vibrant culture through interactive exhibits.
From the tranquil backwaters to the vibrant hill stations, Kerala offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. This article explored some of the best places to visit near Kerala, showcasing the unique charm and beauty of each destination. We delved into the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, the historical significance of Kochi, the scenic beauty of Munnar, and the cultural richness of Thekkady.
Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, the destinations near Kerala promise an unforgettable journey. Each place offers a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of South India, leaving you with lasting memories and a desire to explore more. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Biltmore Estate)
Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit Near Kerala
What are some popular hill stations near Kerala?
Munnar, Thekkady, and Wayanad are some of the most popular hill stations near Kerala, offering stunning views, tea plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, and adventure activities.
Are there any beaches near Kerala worth visiting?
Absolutely! Kerala is famous for its beautiful beaches. Some popular options near the state include Varkala Beach, Kovalam Beach, and Cherai Beach, known for their serene atmosphere, golden sands, and Ayurvedic spas.
What historical sites can I explore near Kerala?
You can visit ancient temples like the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, the Guruvayur Temple in Thrissur, and the Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur. Fort Kochi, with its colonial architecture and Dutch Palace, is also a must-see.
I’m interested in wildlife. What are some good options near Kerala?
Periyar National Park in Thekkady is a renowned wildlife sanctuary home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Eravikulam National Park in Munnar is another great choice, known for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
What’s a good day trip option from Kerala?
A day trip to Kumarakom, a picturesque village on the Vembanad Lake, is a fantastic option. You can enjoy boat rides, visit bird sanctuaries, and experience the serene backwaters.