Kerala, India – ‘God’s Own Country’, a state located in the southwestern part of India, is a land of remarkable diversity and cultural richness. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with a network of backwaters, lush greenery, and pristine beaches that draw travelers from around the world. Kerala also holds the distinction of having one of the highest literacy rates in India, reflecting its strong emphasis on education and human development. The state is a hub for Ayurvedic practices and wellness tourism, offering visitors a chance to experience ancient healing traditions in serene settings. Additionally, Kerala’s unique matrilineal system in certain communities sets it apart from the rest of India’s predominantly patrilineal societies. With its vibrant festivals, rich history, and delectable cuisine, Kerala is a destination that promises a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, making it a captivating and enlightening place to explore.
Munnar
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Western Ghats, Munnar emerges as a breathtaking masterpiece of nature’s artistry. Here, emerald tea plantations cascade down verdant slopes, like a lush green tapestry woven by the hands of heaven itself. The air is crisp with the intoxicating aroma of tea leaves, and the symphony of rustling leaves and melodious birdsong creates a soothing serenade for the senses. Misty mornings unveil a mystical landscape where ethereal clouds embrace the lofty peaks, revealing the secrets hidden within. Munnar, with its tranquil lakes, cascading waterfalls, and the ever-present promise of a surprise behind every hill, invites wanderers to immerse themselves in a world where time slows down, and the soul finds solace in the enchanting embrace of this earthly paradise. We stayed in Munnar for 3 Nights and 4 days. During our stay, we explored places including local markets, nearby sight-seeing places, restaurants, old Munnar town, tea plantations, elephant park, and cardamom spice gardens.
Thekaddy
Thekkady, cradled in the heart of Kerala’s dense forests, is a place where nature’s wild, untamed beauty unfolds in all its glory. Here, emerald-green jungles teem with an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna, including the majestic Asian elephant and elusive Bengal tiger. The centerpiece of Thekkady is the Periyar Tiger Reserve, a sanctuary that offers not only the thrill of wildlife encounters but also the serenity of a picturesque lake cradled within its bounds. Boating across the placid waters of Periyar Lake, one can witness animals quenching their thirst at the water’s edge, creating a surreal tableau of harmonious coexistence. Thekkady is a haven for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and those seeking an authentic rendezvous with the wilderness. It captivates the senses, not just with its lush landscapes and exotic wildlife, but also with the whispers of the forest that echo through the air, reminding us of the precious, untamed treasures that our planet holds.
Allepey
The iconic houseboats of Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, are like floating dreams on the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. These elegant vessels, crafted from indigenous materials like bamboo and wood, offer a truly unique and immersive experience. Drifting lazily along a network of serene canals, rivers, and lagoons, one can soak in the picturesque scenery of emerald rice paddies, swaying palms, and quaint villages that line the shores. The houseboats themselves are a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, furnished with cozy bedrooms, living areas, and even kitchens where skilled chefs prepare delectable Keralan cuisine. As the sun dips below the horizon, the houseboat becomes a sanctuary of peace, with the gentle lapping of water against its hull and the star-studded sky above. Alleppey’s houseboats offer an enchanting journey, where time seems to stand still, and the beauty of nature envelops you in its warm embrace, making it an unforgettable Kerala experience.
Thiruvananthapuram and Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is a vibrant fusion of tradition and modernity. Nestled along the southwest coast of India, this coastal metropolis is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple, known for its awe-inspiring architecture and intricate stone carvings, is a testament to the region’s religious significance and craftsmanship. Just a short drive away from Thiruvananthapuram lies the tranquil beach town of Kovalam, famous for its pristine sandy shores and vibrant nightlife. Kovalam’s crescent-shaped beaches, lapped by the Arabian Sea, offer the perfect escape for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Together, Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam, and the Padmanabhaswamy Temple encapsulate the essence of Kerala, where spirituality, natural beauty, and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, welcoming travelers to an enchanting journey of discovery.
Kanyakumari – Tamil Nadu
Kanyakumari, situated at the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, is a place where the boundaries of land and sea blur into a mesmerizing confluence. Here, the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean converge in a tumultuous embrace, creating a stunning natural spectacle. Beyond its geographical significance, Kanyakumari holds a cultural and spiritual allure, attracting pilgrims and travelers alike. The town is home to the iconic Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial, dedicated to the renowned Indian philosopher-saint, and the majestic Thiruvalluvar Statue, a tribute to the ancient Tamil poet and philosopher. As the sun dips below the horizon in a breathtaking display of colors, visitors gather at the shores to witness the ethereal beauty of the sunset, a moment that encapsulates the mystique and charm of Kanyakumari, making it a place of both natural wonder and spiritual reflection.
Overall Experience And Rating
We planned our Kerala trip for 9 Nights and 10 Days covering major cities including Munnar, Thekaddy, Allepey, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram followed by Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. We pre-booked a private car (Kotayam holidays) from Kochi Airport and travelled 1000 Kms in total to cover all the major attractions in Kerala and Kanyakumari. We stayed in Munnar for 3 Nights, Thekaddy for 2 Nights, and other places for a night. Major places to visit in Munnar include tea plantations, spice gardens, old Munnar town, boating, cheyyapara waterfalls en-route Munnar, and nearby local markets. We had pre-booked Periyar Tiger Reserve Boat Ride tickets and Elephant Junction Shower and Bathing tickets in Thekaddy before our travel. Our House Boat stay in Allepey was quite an amazing experience. We shopped a couple of extravagant in-house made Sarees, Dhotis, and Banana Chips for our friends and relatives from the local markets in Allepey. We visited Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kovalam (Dhotis and Sarees are a must) and headed to Kovalam Beach for dinner later in the evening. We also visited Kanyakumari – a part of Tamil Nadu. Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue is the major attraction there. Don’t miss out on the peacock feeding experience in Kanyakumari. Enjoy your trip!
Ambience – 5/5
Food – 4.9/5
Service – 4.9/5
Stay & Comfort – 5/5
Address: Kerala, God’s Own Country
The Food Punch Recommendation – 5/5
Contact us regarding any queries – thefoodpunched@gmail.com
Thanks for Reading!
https://cse.google.com/cse.js?cx=2b129703bc96d91e1
The Food Punch 