The major places of interest in the state of Kerala

Kerala is mostly popular for its nature and scenic beauties and has rightly earned the sobriquet of “The God’s Own Country”. It is famous for being a tropical heaven with broad sandy seashores and beckoning palm groves. People come here to visit the hills, backwaters, buy spices and coconuts. The world famous dance form Kathakali originated from here. A state of mixed cultures, Kerala is home to mosques, Hindu temples, churches, and synagogues. Top notch adventure sports facilities, ayurvedic therapies, and eco-tourism programs make it a favorite destination for the travelers. The most famous tourist attractions in the state of Kerala are as follows:

Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram):

Trivandrum or Thiruvananthapuram is the capital and largest city in Kerala. It is situated in the southern part of the state. The city is famous for its water bodies bordered by coconut orchards, captivating sunsets, tea and coffee estates, as well as fragrant spices. The city is also dubbed as the ‘City of Seven Hills’ and served as a popular harbor. At present, Thiruvananthapuram is a major commercial hub in Southern India. Plentiful natural beauty and the presence of Ayurvedic centers make it a top-rated tourist destination. Places of tourist interest in Trivandrum include Napier Museum, Zoo, Science and Technology Museum, Shri Chitra Art Gallery, Shanmugham Beach, Veli Lagoon, ISRO and Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

Kovalam:

Kovalam forms a part of the Malabar Coast and the distance from Thiruvananthapuram is only 16 km. Kovalam is a traveler’s paradise and is a perfect spot for recreational sports and bathing because of its placid waters. The coconut groves add to its attraction. There are three magnificent beaches in Kovalam and they are the Samudra Beach, Lighthouse Beach, and Hawah Beach. If you are an adventure sports lover or looking for ayurvedic treatments, then Kovalam is the right place for you. Visit the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Ganapati Temple, Jama Masjid, Neyyar Dam, and Lighthouse.

Kollam (Quilon):

The contemporary Kollam is well known for its cashew nut production, diverse industrial sectors, and fisheries. Quilon marks the starting point of the heavenly backwaters (if you arrive from Trivandrum) and coconut groves border the whole area, offering a panoramic sight. You will enjoy boating on the lagoon.

Alleppey:

Alappuzha is also named as Alleppey and the name was changed in the year 1990. It is a tiny settlement which forms a part of the famous backwaters of Kerala. Alleppey is a popular tourist attraction because of its boat trips and charming backwaters. The place gives you the opportunity to enjoy the scenic features of the Malabar Coast. Traveling on the houseboat (Kettuvalam) across the lagoons and backwater channels is a lifetime experience. Photography fans will also like this place.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary forms a part of Thekkady and is a top tourist draw in Kerala. Nestled in the Western Ghats mountain range and lying by the Periyar Lake, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the ideal place for watching Indian wild elephants in their natural habitat. Other varieties of wildlife found here are the barking deer, wild boar, sambar, panthers, bison, wild dogs, musk deer, spotted deer, and leopard.

Kottayam:

It lies towards the south of Kochi and it is a cultural hub. You will find many historic cathedrals in this area. Despite the fact that it is a business hub, you will find lush green landscapes and picturesque backwaters. Don’t forget to visit the Vemabanad Lake. You can make trips to Kumarakom and Valiya Pally from here.

Cochin (Kochi):

Kochi or Cochin is one of the major business hubs of the state and it is also famous for its historical significance. The Fort Cochin zone has achieved the status of a heritage site. It is well known for being a Portuguese colony for a considerable period and its natural port.

Trissur (Trichur):

Thrissur, or Trichur as it is called is known for the Shiva or Vadakkumnathan Temple. The distance from Kochi is 78 km and the place is famous for the Pooram Festival held annually. NH47 makes it easily accessible and Thrissur is home to the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy and Kerala Sahitya Academy. The Shiva temple is a hallmark of the Keralite pattern of architecture. Visit the museums, town hall, and zoo in this place.

Guruvayur:

Guruvayur ranks among the holiest and significant pilgrimage hubs of the state. It witnesses footfalls from around the nation. The prime tourist draw of Guruvayur is the temple devoted to Lord Krishna, also known as the Guruvayurappan Temple. Also visit Punnathur Kotta from here.