Best holiday destinations - State of Kerala South India

KERALA

India's top travel destination this little state is unique, exotic and charming destination that attracts tourists from far and wide. Kerala offers wide variety to tourism activities the most popular being backwater cruise holiday. Besides a number of beach resorts and spas, National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries; historical and monuments, home stays and cultural tours are in offing.

The Capital City - Thiruvananthpuram

Earlier known as Trivandrum during the British Rule the capital of Kerala State is bounded by the Western Ghats and Arabian Sea. On arrival the scenic splendor is of this clean and green city evident. The Anant Padmeshwar Temple is the landmark besides notable palaces.

A backwater boat ride adds to sightseeing this magnificent city. Other places of interest are the museum, observatory, Chitra Art Gallery and many temples.

Kochi

The city is the cultural hub of the state numerous traders from many countries have left a stamp of color and exotic culture. Kochi earlier called Cochin is the commercial and industrial center of Kerala and is called the Queen of Arabian Sea. The city offers the best introduction to the state and its magnificent panoramic splendor. This port city has a lovely seaside flanked by the Western Ghats.

Places of interest are Thrikkakara Temple, Ernakulum Siva Temple, Fort Kochi, Paradesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Hill Palace Museum, Pallopuram Fort, Vembanad Kayal (Lake), Bolgatty Palace, Backwaters and Mattancherry Palace. The best beaches are Fort Kochi Beach and Cherai Beach.

Varkala

This little known beach resort is gaining popularity day by day. The long stretch of Panasam Beach is the main attraction because of its scenic splendor. The engimatic landscape is resplendant with sandy beach and towering hills that accord a serene ambiance to Varkala.

The Janardana Swami Temple draws lots of visitors to affirm their faith. Sivagiri Mutt is the samadhi of spiritual guru Sri Narayan visited by thousands of Hindu Pilgrims.

Munnar

Situated in the Western Ghats the splendor of Munnar is heightned by the confluence of rivers. Nallathani, Kundaly and Muthiraphuzza converge and add to the beautiful radiance on Munnar. Much frequented by birders and holiday makers alike the destination is 105 km from Cochin.

Nearby places are Eravikulum Mational Park and Annamudi Peak. The preserve is home to Nilgiri Tahr which is critically endangered. Munnar is the best destination for trekking in the wild nature trails.

Kumarakom

Backwater tourism is the highlight of the state of Kerala. Kumarakom is one place to enjoy a holiday on houseboat in the serene backwater shaped by blue lagoons, pristine rivers and a network of vast waterways. The bird sanctuary invites birders from far and wide on quest of photography and endemic birds.

Kumararakom is about 16km from Kottayam on the Vembanad Lake Kerala's largest fresh water lake. The destination is about 85 km from Kochi.

Top Destinations in Kerala

The Capital City - Thiruvananthpuram

Kochi

Varkala

Munnar

Kumarakom