Fondly known as the “God’s own country,” Kerala is indeed one of the most incredible destinations in India. Kerala has one of the most scenic, exotic and diverse landscapes of southern India. Featuring steamy coastal water-worlds, uplifting mountain vistas and so much more. The best way to explore the refreshing vistas on offer here is to go on a motorcycle expedition across the state. On your ride, you will come across dense forests, jungle gorges, pristine lakesides, and the famed backwaters of Kerala. In fact, Kerala is also a year round destination. It makes for a perfect place to visit in the month of may when the waterfalls are gushing with fresh waters received from the monsoons in India. And also in the winter months October through March when the weather is relatively cold and beautiful.
Thus, for your next short holiday, why not grab your stuff, tune up your bike and head off to Kerala? To help you make the most out of the scintillating ride, here is the compilation of some of the top places that should give you a brief yet, the best picture of this heavenly place.
We have been to several weekend getaways in India. Our explorations started with a day trip to Mysore, followed by a visit to Ooty during the monsoons in August same year. And then happened our first trip to Kerala driving from Cochin to Munnar , visiting beautiful spice gardens on the way and then spending 3 beautiful days in Munnar. Then we visited Thekkady and finally spent a day in the houseboat on the backwaters of Alleppey. After this trip, we had a relaxing trip to Goa, a trip to Yercaud, another beautiful weekend trip to Kodaikanal (including an awesome drive from Bangalore to Kodaikanal), a year end trip to Mahabalipuram visiting places there, beautiful trip to Pondicherry, solving the mystery of Lepakshi Temple, exploring ancient ruins of Hampi, a homestay experience visiting Coorg at Casa Coorg, another one in Kabini, and an eco lodge stay in BR Hills. And then, well, we again landed in Kerala – relaxing at the backwaters of the Vembadan lake in Kumarakom. So, you see, no matter what, we keep returning back to Kerala. And that is why we write this piece here, to help you fall in love with this amazing place, and in the process, we fall in love with it all over again! And we are yet to explore places in North Kerala.
Before we start off the list, here’s some general information no how you can book a trip to Kerala
How to book a trip to Kerala
The capital city, Thiruvananthapuram (or, Trivandrum), and Cochin are well connected with rest of India through flight. You can easily book your tickets through websites like makemytrip.com to one of these cities. But, before you so, its good to implement few of these tricks to score cheaper flights. And then proceed to book your hotel. We recommend agoda.com or booking.com to book your hotels. Since you get really good deals on your website. You can check reviews on tripadvisor and then go ahead and book the hotel. Even houseboats can be booked via these websites.
Athirappally – one of the best places to visit in Kerala
Also known as the “Niagara Falls of the South,” the Athirappally waterfalls is a sight to behold. As, this beautiful tourist spot is situated at the banks of the Chalakudy River. And at the height of approximately 1000 feet above the sea level! Thus, the mesmerizing setting, with its milky waters, several small streams and 8-feet high waterfall, is one place that could easily conquer your heart. On reaching Athirappally, you can also explore many attractions that lay close-by. And are worth the visit. Including the Charpa Falls, Vazhachal Falls, and the Thumboormuzhi Dam and Butterfly Park. Thus, a must visit while exploring Kerala.
Vagamon – the green paradise of Kerala
Here’s one sleepy little town, whose picturesque beauty is unmarred by the hands of commercialization. Vagamon, or Wagamon, is a quaint place. It is located in the Idukki district in Kerala. And it lies at an altitude of approximately 1, 100 meters. The abundance of greenery here, with its enchanting pine forests, lush meadows, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes is bound to make you forget your boring city life. Yet another aspect of Vagamon that makes it an interesting choice of vacation while exploring Kerala is its pleasantly cool climate with temperatures between 10 and 23 degree Celsius. Favorite places of interest nearby include the Kurishumala Ashram and the V-shaped Mooppanpara canyon.
Munnar – our favorite among places to visit in Kerala
No other place in Kerala is as famous as Munnar! The scenic hill station attracts thousands of vacationers from across the country. That said, exploring the lush green landscape and its hairpin bends especially as you take in the enticing smell of adjacent tea estates, is one unforgettable experience. Like Vagamon, Munnar is another prized gem in the Idukki district of Kerala. It offers a wide variety of breath-taking viewpoints, green valleys, waterfalls, mist-clad hills, charming villages, flora, and fauna. Don’t forget to visit the serene attractions of the place, including the Lockhart Gap, Mattupetti Dam, Top Station, Kolukkualai tea estate, and the famed Meesapulimala.
We went to Munnar on our first trip to Kerala. And ever since, we have been waiting for the right opportunity to return back to this enchanting hill station. Here is a list of 6 must visit places in Munnar. We totally loved each one of these on our visit to Munnar. And thus we recommend you not to miss any of these when you visit Munnar. If possible, take a drive from Cochin to Munnar. As it is one of the most scenic drives that we have taken in India so far. And you will surely enjoy this 3 hours drive. Don;t forget to stop on the way at different pit stops like waterfalls, spice gardens and tea estates.
Varkala – a classic destination in Kerala
From the lush green hills of Idduki, we go down to the coastal town of Varkala, located in the Thiruvananthapuram (or Trivandrum) district. The sun-kissed beached, extending into the horizon will be the perfect palate cleanser for you after exploring many breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls and lush green hill stations. You can begin your beach-cation at the Varkala Beach (or Papanasam Beach), followed by a sunset viewing at Tiruvambadi. Other fitting destinations to explore here include the famous Anjengo Fort, Kappil Lake, and Varkala Tunnel. All this makes Varkala another must visit while exploring Kerala.
Thekkady – the fauna lover’s place
Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey make for a nice trio of places in Kerala to be visited together. And they are especially one of the favorites amongst honeymooners. In the initial years of our marriage, we also visited this trio and we totally loved each one of these. While Munnar offers an affair with the enchanting hills. On the other hand, Thekkady offers a serene and calm getaway on the banks of the periyar river. Here one can take a boat ride in the river. And enjoy the scenic banks that extend inside the dense Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. If you are lucky, you might as well spot many wild animals while taking the boat ride. And in the right season, you will see many species of birds flocking on and around the river. Give Thekkady at least a one night stay on your visit.
In case you will like to know about our trip of the trio of Munnar, Alleppey and Thekkady – here it is.
Alleppey – the must visit among places in Kerala
The backwaters of Alleppey are one of a kind in India. Thus, the most unique amongst places to visit in Kerala. They will remind you of the canals Venice, but without it’s crowd and dense buildings. Rather the village has a laid back lifestyle. Most of the locals here own houseboats that are the tourist preferences. And why not. A houseboat experience in Alleppey is one of its kind. And a must experience when here. However, don’t limit your thoughts to just the backwaters of Alleppey. As there is much more to do here than what meets the eyes. Here’s a list of our top 10 things to do in Alleppey. We did enjoy the hospitality of the house boat as well as our one day roaming around on the backwaters of Alleppey while we were there. Do read the post to know more how you can get more involved and learn about the local culture while you spend a day on the houseboat in Alleppey.
Kumarakom – the song of Vembadan Lake in Kerala
Another quiet, calm and serene destination in Kerala is Kumarakom. Little off the beaten path, Kumarakom is similar to Alleppey in it’s offerings. As it is also located on the backwaters of the sea, on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. If you are looking for a relaxing and nice weekend off the crowded places then Kumarakom is your perfect choice. Last year, we spent such a relaxing weekend in Kumarakom along with our extended family and kids. And totally loved every moment of it. There is a lot to do in Kumarakom. Including a stay in one of the several enchanting resorts on the bank of the lake, photography, relaxing massage, bird watching etc. Here’s our list of ten things to do in Kumarakom while you enjoy a relaxing holiday there. Overall, Kumarakom is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Kerala.
There’s Plenty to Explore in God’s Own Country!
In Kerala, there are plenty of places to explore on your two-wheeler. While the countryside here features scenic mountain getaways, lush pine forests and mesmerizing lakes, you can also revel in the tranquillity at some of the most-frequented ashrams and churches.
To explore the intricately beautiful landscape of Kerala, all you need to have is a comfortable motorcycle, the right riding gear and paperwork, and ample time in hand. Your bike needs to be in prime riding condition so that you don’t have any breakdowns or delays in your journey across hillsides and beach towns. Similarly, your riding gear should be both comfortable and protective, so that you can stay on the road for long hours. Furthermore, you must have the right motor insurance policy for your bike, so that your trip is financially secured from any damages incurred in a road accident.
A comprehensive motor insurance policy from reputable insurers such as TATA AIG General Insurance can help financially safeguard your precious bike from any loss or damage due to accidents, theft, or breakdowns. It doesn’t matter wherever or whenever you are stuck on the road, having a motor insurance policy would make sure that help reaches you in the minimum time possible and that you are again back on the road. Remember, a memorable trip is all about exploring and soaking in new experiences, and not about mishaps or unpleasant in-transit stories.
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