Ten facts that invite you to mind-blowing Kerala during Monsoons
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Kerala located in the southwest of India spread over 38,863 km2 is one of the favourite tourist places in India. Whenever we think of Kerala we think beaches, backwaters, temples, pilgrim, hills, waterfalls, elephants, tigers and wildlife, national parks, ghats, mountains, palm-lined trees, tea gardens, spices, food, monuments, traditional festivals and dances, churches, fishing, caves, Ayurveda, massages and what not. Kerala is an all-rounder tourist destination including traditions, fun, spirituality, adventure, romance. You are sure to enjoy every moment once you visit Kerala in Monsoon.
Following are few places in Kerala that will provide you with some regaling experiences once you visit them during monsoon
1. Trivandrum
Trivandrum aka “Evergreen City” of India has plenty of the things to offer with exquisite beaches, alluring temples, caves, wildlife sanctuaries, islands, historical monuments, Ayurveda therapies, spectacular palaces, fascinating backwaters, tea, coffee and spice plantations, and its rich culture.
If you are one of those who loves being away from the crowd, then beaches of Trivandrum are perfect for you. These are beautiful and tranquil covering seven hills and is spread over of 2,192 sq km. Thiruvananthapuram is an ideal mix of contemporary and culture. It is a great tourist place where you can explore the places with almost every taste of interest like Kerala Science and Technology Museum, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, Veli Backwaters Tour, The Kanakakunnu Palace, Poovar Island, Ponmudi, Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary, Vizhinjam Rockcut Cave and many more.
How to reach Trivandrum:
Air: Trivandrum airport is an international airport that is well-connected with India and the rest of the world. Deluxe and luxury buses run throughout Kerala intercity by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). The bus stop in Trivandrum is Thampanoor bus station. Trivandrum Central is 6 km away from the city centre and well-connected to other major cities in India.
Best Time to visit Trivandrum is from June to September which brings monsoon in Kerala.
2. Kumarakom
Kumarakom is an enchanting backwater traveller destination in Kerala, India. It is a picturesque, little hamlet of tiny islands. It is popularly known as the rice bowl of Kerala and can be approached through a voyage from Alappuzha/Alleppey. It is a refreshing, fascinating and exhilarating tourist place that is situated at the Vembanad Lake, well-equipped with mangrove forests and coconut groves. Kumarakom provides boating, angling and sightseeing experiences which are genuinely exhilarating. It is a unique experience which will beckon you to visit the place again and again.
The optimum time to visit Kumarakom is from November to March.
Kumarakom Highlights at the Onam festival: Onam festival falls in the month of August and carries on till September. It is high time when locals from entire Kerala take part in the special boat race events.
Lazy days at picturesque shoreline beach: The beach is a perfect destination to unwind at peace and tranquillity with a good book or just lie back to admire the environs.
How to reach Kumarakom:
Kumarakom is 85 km from Kochi International Airport while it is 171 km away from Trivandrum airport. Kottayam is the closest railway station, 16 km from Kumarakom and is well-connected to major cities. The Kerala state government runs buses between all its major cities. Further, hire a cab or bus.
Best time to visit Kumarakom is from June to September in the monsoon season.
Read More : Top Hotels for Backpackers in Kerala
3. Athirapally falls
As monsoon in Kerala arrives the waterfall at full speed streams down from those edged mountains. Experiencing the magic of the waterfalls in monsoon is so satisfying when you can drench your soul in the beauty of the picturesque waterfalls. We all love the splashes of water on our bodies as we stand near the waterfalls, the playful waterfalls rejuvenate us. Waterfalls in Kerala surrounded by rocky basin and rain forest are not only refreshing and beautiful to see but also allows appeasing the adventurous person inside you with all the activities like rock climbing and waterfall rappelling.
Athirapally falls considered to be the most magnificent of all Kerala waterfalls. Athirapally falls is located about 33 km east of Chalakuddy in Thrissur District. After collecting more water, it flows with great fury along the slopes and valleys before thundering down at Athirappally. Waterfall thus created looks magnificent in the scenic background of green hills and large rocks. Falling magnificently from height, silvery water splashes down forming a roar that can be heard at a distance. Monsoon season in Kerala brings rains in an abundance of water to unite them to a mighty broad downpour.
At Athirappally one can trek down to the bottom of the waterfall to get close to the nature. As usual, the climb down is a lot easier than the trek up. Expect to get a little wet as water tumbling down in massive quantities brings to life innumerable droplets flying all over.
How to reach Athirapally falls:
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Athirappilly 55 km away. Nearest railheads are Chalakuddy (31km away ), Kochi (78 km away) and Thrissur (66 away). Government and private buses run from Kochi.
For adventure seekers, the best time to visit this place is during monsoon season in Kerala, i.e. June to September is excellent. Otherwise, September- January is the best time.
4. Alleppey
Situated 62 km southward of Kochi the lush green palms, diverse wildlife, traditional houseboats, and heavenly-looking green villages together make the backwaters of Kerala. It is aka ‘Venice of East’ is famous for its numerous rearguard channels, beaches, paddy fields and lagoons attract a large number of tourists every year from all around the world.
Alleppey is iconic for its houseboats cruises in the backwaters and attracts thousands of visitors every year. With the Laccadive Sea on its west, Alleppey is blessed with a lot of natural flora and fauna and the backwaters and the wetlands make it rich in marine life and migratory fauna. Alleppey beach is the perfect place to unwind on a quiet and subtle evening. Revi Karuna Karan Memorial Museum, Marari Beach, Kuttanad, backwaters, church and temples are the places that you must visit when in Alleppey.
How to reach Alleppey:
The nearest airport to Alleppey is the Cochin International Airport at a distance of 75 km. The closest railways station is Kottayam, 46 km away and is within the vicinity to Alleppey.
Best time to visit is monsoon season in Kerala, from June to September.
Read More : Enjoy a Unique Houseboat Experience in Kerala
5. Kovalam
Scenic landscapes, beautiful palm trees, coconut orchards, lagoons, lighthouse and sheltered coves are what you can expect on a beach. Among the popular beach destinations, Kovalam is home to several luxury resorts, hotels, and several Ayurveda massage centres. Couples can indulge in a romantic experience with evening cruises. Parasailing, diving, swimming and boating are a few favourite activities at the beaches in Kovalam. The coconut plantations at these beaches are also romantic spots where one can spend your evenings. The main attractions here are the serene beaches-Lighthouse beach, Hawa Beach and the Samudra Beach. The best season to visit Kovalam beach is from September to May. Shanghumukham Beach, Veli lagoon, Somatheeram, Varkala, Marari, Bekal and Cherai are some other beaches that top the list of best monsoon gateways in India.
How to reach Kovalam:
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International airport, 11 km away. The nearest railhead is Trivandrum Central Railway Station 16 km away. Kovalam is well-connected to Trivandrum and other major other cities by road.
Best time to visit Kovalam is from June to September.
Read More : Top hotels in God’s Own Country
6. Fort Kochi
At the southeastern part of the mainland, Kochi is the famous fishing village of Fort Kochi. There are a variety of places to tour in this region presently like the Indo Portuguese Museum, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry, Mattancherry Palace and the Jew Synagogue. The lane of Mattancherry, the Jews colony, has several shops selling garments, accessories, and jewellery worth buying. This town is known for its serene backwaters drawing honeymoon couples through the year.
How to reach Cochin/Kochi:
The nearest airport is International Airport of Cochin. The nearest railhead is Ernakulam, which is well-connected to major other cities.
Visit Kerala in monsoon, i.e. July to September, which is the best time to visit Cochin/Kochi
7. Wayanad
Wayanad fondly known as ‘The Land of Paddy Fields’ amid the native tribes of this region, Wayanad is at the top of the Western Ghats at an altitude of 2100 m. The most popular tourist location of Wayanad district is the Kuruva Island occupied by rare birds, flora and herbs. Individuals throughout the country are attracted to the dense forest nature the island located between the tributaries of River Kabani.
Chembra Peak is famous for its hills and mountains, and Wayanad hosts the Chembra peak amid the beautiful valleys and adventurous trekking trails. Tourists are invited to carry sleeping bags, huts, canvases and trekking gear that are available at stores before the trek begins. After traversing throughout the backwoods, the spectacular view of Wayanad greets one from the peak.
Edakkal Cave is situated in the Ambukuthy Mountain and the cave has a magnificent structure. The walls are adorned with titillating carvings making you fall in love with the elaborated creation.
How to reach Wayanad:
The nearest railway station is Kozhikode 110 km away. The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport which is 61 km away. Kozhikode is well-connected with major other cities.
Interestingly monsoon season in Kerala is the right time to visit this place.
8. Palakkad
Palakkad, acres of rice fields set along the background of enigmatic mountains interspersed with hills, forests, rivers and mountain streams are a feast for the eye. And that’s not the only thing that you may enjoy at Palakkad, even with love as the gateway to northern Kerala. Malampuzha Dam is said to be the largest reservoir in Kerala. Malampuzha Gardens is maintained beautifully and built aesthetically to take your breath away. The Yakshi statue sculptured by Kanayi Kunhiraman is a remarkable work of art in the garden. Tipu Sultan Fort, situated in the heart of Palakkad town, is also known as the Palakkad Fort and is a significant and awe-inspiring one.
How to reach Palakkad:
The nearest international airport is Coimbatore, 49 km away. Palakkad has its own railways station and is well-connected with the rest of the cities. Public and private buses run between the towns of Kerala.
Best time to visit is Palakkad is from November to March.
9. Thekkady
Thekkady is famous for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Thekkady, a popular attraction for tourist in Kerala, is the ideal place to settle-back and unwind a laid back holiday, amidst spectacular landscape and pleasant climate and is famous for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary as the main attraction.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is amongst the best natural wildlife reserves within the country and is spread over a vast area of 777 sq km, contains different species of animals, birds, reptiles and plants and thus is famous for its natural diversity. The sanctuary is covered with dense evergreen forest. Herds of elephants can be seen walking around the lake gives a satisfying picture.
How to reach Thekkady:
Thekkady is 257 km from Trivandrum; the nearest airport is Madurai Airport and nearest railway station being Kumarakom. Public and privates buses run between the cities of Kerala.
Best time to visit is from September to March.
Read More : Choose the Best Homestays in Kerala
10. Chellarkovil
Chellarkovil aka ‘God”s own balcony’ is a small hamlet located 15 km from Thekkady. The village has grapes, cotton, coconut and vegetables that grow on its slopes. If you want to escape into peace, this place provides spectacular views of the hills wrapped in a lush green environment and also offers the sight of rare plants and animals and can be reached by jeep.
Best time to visit is from September to May.
11. Ashtamudi Lake
Kollam, surrounded by Lake Ashtamudi, is blessed with the charm of blue waters and vibrant greenery. It is among the known trade centres. Ashtamudi Lake that envelops 30 per cent of Kollam and Sasthamkotta, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala is its pride.
The picturesque beauty of the surroundings, Chinese fishing nets, chirping birds, flocks of ducks, village life, are the regular sights at the journey in the houseboats of Kollam. Other nearby places are Jatayu Nature Park, Kollam Beach in Kerala, Amritanandamayi Ashram, Picnic Village and Thangasseri Beach.
How to reach Ashtamudi Lake:
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, at a distance of 70 km and the nearest railhead is Kollam Junction which is 2 km away. The best time to visit Kollam is from October to February.
12. Munnar: The ultimate place to visit in Kerala
A place in Kerala like Munnar attracts huge visitors because of the lush green tea gardens and valleys which makes it an ultimate tourist place. The place where three rivers, namely Kundalay, Mudrapuzha and Nallathanni, meet, provides an unmistakable beauty to it. Situated at 1524 m altitude on the Western Ghats, the tourist spots of Munnar makes you wonder if it is the birthplace of beauty or something else. The lush green landscape, waterfalls, lakes, forests and tea plantations make this place a paradise on earth.
You might have your share of adventure here as you can go for paragliding, trekking and mountain climbing. Some of the exciting places you can visit in Munnar are Atukkad Waterfalls, Muniyara Dolmens, Echo Point, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Chithirapuram, Munnar Tea Museum, Kundala Lake, Upper station and Marayur, etc.
How to reach Munnar:
The nearest airport is Cochin International airport, 125 km from Munnar. The nearest railhead from Munnar is at Angamaly or Alwaye, 20 km away. Munnar is well-connected to other famous destinations when you visit Kerala in monsoon.
Read More : 10 Charming Hotels near Tea Plantations in Kerala
FAQs
1. What is there for pilgrims?
Kerala has over 25 famous temples so it is a good place for pilgrims.
2. What to experience in Kerala?
Onam, Snake boat races, shikara ride, tree house, Ayurveda massage treatment, Wildlife, tea, coffee, spice and cardamom plantations, festivals, fishing, bird watching.
3. Which is the best place in Kerala popular for Backwater Tourism?
Kasaragod, Kuttanad, Kumarakom, Kollam are the backwater that you must enjoy.
4. Where to stay in Kerala?
There are several hotels and resorts in Kerala that provide good accommodation varying upon your budget. If you are a luxury traveller, then elite hotels such as the Taj Malabar, the Le Meridian, CGH Earth, Somatheeram Ayurvedic Resort would be ideal for you. Backpackers will find budget hotels and several two and three-star hotels.
5. Which are the activities not to miss in Kerala?
It comprises Houseboat in Alleppey, Bamboo Rafting in Thekkady, Dolphins at Cherai Beach, Kayaking Canoeing, Temple Festival in Alleppey, Water Sports in Kovalam, Snorkeling Trip in Kochi, Wooden Boat Ride in Kovalam, Jeep Safari In Thekkady, Periyar Tiger Trail in Thekkady , Banana Ride in Kochi, Ayurveda Therapy in Alleppey, Cochin Carnival in Kochi, Nature Walk in Kumarakom, Kathakali, Trekking and paragliding in Munnar, Cycling in Wayanad, Trek to the Valley of Clouds in Wayanad, Elephant Ride in Thekkady, Rock Climbing and Rappelling in Munnar.
6. Which places to visit in Kerala?
It includes Eravikulam National Park, Lighthouse Beach In Kovalam, Marari Beach In Alleppey, Pathiramanal Island In Kumarakom, Anamudi Peak In Munnar.
Advice: Take a long break if you want to explore Kerala at fullest if you plan to Visit Kerala in Monsoon (8-10 days).
Read More : 10 Best Spots for Honeymooners in Kerala
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