15 Amazing Things to do in Kerala in 2024

Kerala has always been more than just a destination, with its popular beaches, amazing hill stations, rejuvenating ayurvedic spas, and world-popular backwaters. Also known as the “God’s Own Country” this beautiful state of India is home to some important temples. This means Kerala is an ideal place for all kinds of travellers to visit. Kerala is also known for having a lot of amazing activities that you will surely love indulging in a few of them. So if you have already included Kerala in your itinerary, take a look at this blog and pick the best activities that you can enjoy at this place.

Let’s check out the best activities to enjoy in Kerala

1. Enjoy Kerala’s Popular Backwaters

Whenever travellers think about Kerala, Backwaters are the first few things that come to their minds. This is a place where one can explore, rejuvenate, and relax during the trip. While exploring the backwaters you have to take a houseboat which is a different experience altogether. While sitting and rejoicing a cup of coffee or tea on the boat you can explore the networks of canals, lakes, and rivers that make these backwaters. It is going to be an enchanting journey that will offer you some delightful times and sites of paddy fields, quaint villages, and swaying palm trees.

2. Taking an Ayurveda Spa

Apart from its backwaters and beaches, Kerala is also famed for having an awesome Ayurveda spa and treatment setup in various places. This is the oldest wellness system in the world that can rejuvenate the entire body with herbal remedies, oil massages, and detoxifying therapy. These treatments have a revitalising effect on the body by restoring the mind and body balance. So if you are heading to Kerala, then spending a couple of days getting these treatments away from the crowd, it would be worth your while.

3. Take a Tour of the Tea Plantation

Kerala has always been a wonderful destination for nature lovers and if you want to see the greenery why not visit the tea plantations? There are several hill stations in the state where you can head for walking through the plantations. Walking through the lush green slopes, learning about tea production, and tasting fresh brews make a tea plantation tour memorable. A visit to a tea plantation in Kerala combines the best of scenic beauty, learning, and cultural immersion.

4. Try Hiking in the Munnar Valley

For all the adventure seekers, the Munnar Valley has something to offer. You can go on a hiking session in this valley to enjoy the thrill and mesmerising view of the hills. While you plan to take this activity you will come across mist-covered mountains, lush tea plantations, and scenic valleys. With trails that range from easy walks through tea estates to challenging climbs up high-altitude peaks; Munnar offers diverse hiking options for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.

5. Relax at One of the Beaches

Having a relaxing holiday during your trip to Kerala is also possible if you choose to visit one or more beaches. Kerala’s beaches offer a perfect escape for relaxation, with golden sands, swaying palm trees, and a laid-back atmosphere. Its beaches are ideal for those looking to unwind, whether that means spending the day lounging under a palm tree, meditating by the waves, or indulging in an Ayurvedic spa treatment.

6. Visiting and Exploring the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park is one of the jewels of Kerala and a perfect destination for wildlife lovers. The sanctuary is located around the banks of Periyar Lake. This protected area is situated in the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts of the state. Right from the very beginning, the sanctuary has been a reserve and protected area for the elephants and tigers. The Periyar Reserve has a peaceful and pristine atmosphere offering a chance to explore the sanctuary to the fullest.

7. Check Out the Popular Historical Sites

Are you a historic site lover or explorer? Or simply an adventurer? Whatever you may be, Kerala is just the right place for you. Loaded with ages-old and popular historical sites; Kerala can offer you an unbeatable experience that would be memorable. These historical sites are not only the living legends of the past but also allow people to peek into the bygone era. The state is rich in history and culture, boasting a plethora of historical sites that reflect its diverse heritage.

8. Attend a Kathakali Performance

Being a culture-oriented state, Kerala finds its pride in all the things that are related to its culture. Kathakali is the dance form that is practiced here and it is performed at several religious and cultural events. It is one of their main forms of classic dance that is meant to depict the epics of the country. Before the dance, a performer is face-painted and given the props to properly dress like the kathakali dancers. During the dance, eyes, facial expressions, hand gestures, and foot movements are done in a particular manner to execute the performance.

9. Take a Quick Tour of the Spice Plantations

Spice plantations are one of the USPs of Kerala and they are quite engaging too. Travellers visit these places and explore how things function. Also not to mention that India is a large exporter of spices which tells that if you are in a place like this, a lot is there to learn about. Kerala’s tropical climate and fertile soil make it ideal for growing a variety of spices. Since a lot time it has been an integral part of its culture and economy. While you take a guided tour make sure to pack a few rich spices for your home.

10. Take a Quick Canoe Ride

If you are not inclined towards having the houseboat ride then maybe a canoe ride would do it for you. Go through its scenic backwaters and enjoy a tranquil and immersive way to experience the natural beauty and unique lifestyle of this region. Canoeing offers a more intimate, close-up perspective than larger boats. It allows you to glide quietly through narrow canals lined with coconut palms, paddy fields, and rustic villages.

11. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Exploring Kerala’s local cuisine is a must-do for anyone visiting the region. Its cuisine is known for its unique blend of spices, fresh coconut, rice, and a variety of seafood. It is an experience rich in flavour and tradition.  We can say that it offers a range of dishes that highlight the state’s local ingredients and cultural influences. Whether dining in a local restaurant, experiencing Sadya or learning to cook Kerala-style, this culinary journey is essential to a visit here.

12. Take a Trip to the Athirappilly Waterfalls

A visit to Athirappilly Waterfalls is an experience of Kerala’s natural beauty at its finest. From the majestic falls to the lush forests and diverse wildlife, all of it feels rejuvenating. Athirappilly offers a mix of adventure and tranquillity, making it a memorable stop on any Kerala itinerary. This place is breathtakingly beautiful which is why it is often designated as the “Niagara of India.”

13. Savour the Keralan Cuisines

Kerala’s cuisines are some of the best you can get in the entire country when it comes to taste and curry flavours. It is an aromatic and flavourful journey that beautifully represents the richness of the state’s tropical climate. What makes it even better is the abundant spice gardens and coastline weather. Each dish captures the essence of the region, often enhanced by coconut, curry leaves, and various spices.

14. Go for a Hike at Meesapulimala

Hiking up Meesapulimala is a thrilling experience that combines the serene beauty of Kerala’s landscape with the challenge of reaching one of its highest peaks. Standing at around 2,640 metres (8,661 feet) above sea level, Meesapulimala is the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats after Anamudi and is located near the hill station of Munnar in the Idukki district. The name “Meesapulimala” translates to “the hill of the moustache-tiger,” referencing the shape of the peak.

15. Explore the Territories of Wayanad’s Wildlife

Wayanad, located in the lush Western Ghats of Kerala, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This region boasts rich biodiversity with tropical forests, mist-covered hills, and expansive grasslands, which support a range of animal and plant species.

Conclusion

Kerala offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse activities, making it a top destination for every kind of traveller. From exploring the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey to the misty hills of Munnar, and from wildlife adventures in Wayanad to the historic charm of Kochi, Kerala captures the heart with each experience. Whether you’re savouring the state’s iconic cuisine, rejuvenating with traditional Ayurvedic treatments, or trekking through lush tea plantations, Kerala immerses you in a world of sensory delights.

Read Also: Best time to visit in Kerala | Top reasons to visit Kerala

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