Kerala, also known as "God's Own Country," is a state located on the southwestern coast of India. It is famous for its backwoods, beaches, and lush greenery. However, travelers have yet to explore many undiscovered places in Kerala. This article will uncover some of the most beautiful places in Kerala that you may not have heard about before.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. To reach the temple, you can fly to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and hire a taxi or take public transportation.
The temple is known for its intricate architecture and is considered one of the richest temples in the world due to the treasures found in its vaults.
Nearby attractions to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple include the Napier Museum, a collection of historical artifacts and art, and the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, home to various wildlife species. Visitors can also explore Kovalam Beach, just a short drive from the temple, where they can relax, swim, or enjoy water sports.
Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National Park, located in Munnar, Kerala, is a good tourist destination known for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. To reach the park, you can take a flight to Cochin International Airport, hire a taxi, or take a bus to Munnar. You can hire a local guide from Munnar or join a guided tour.
Apart from its natural beauty, Eravikulam National Park is famous for being home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat species found only in the Western Ghats. Visitors can trek trails within the park to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic scenes of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations.
Bekal Fort
Bekal Fort, located in Kasaragod, Kerala, is an ancient fort overlooking the Arabian Sea. To reach Bekal Fort, you can take a flight to Mangalore International Airport in neighboring Karnataka, hire a taxi, or take a bus to Kasaragod. The fort is easily accessible from the town.
Besides exploring the fort's historical significance and architectural beauty, visitors can enjoy the spectacular coastline views from the observation deck. The fort is surrounded by a beautiful beach where you can relax, stroll, or indulge in water activities like swimming and boating.
Kovalam Beach
Located about 16 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital, Kovalam Beach is known for its pristine sandy shores and clear blue waters.
To reach Kovalam Beach, you can fly into Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and then take a taxi or hire a car to go to the beach. Alternatively, you can also take a train to Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station and then travel by road to Kovalam.
There are several nearby places that you can explore while visiting Kovalam Beach. One of the most popular attractions is the Vizhinjam Lighthouse, which offers panoramic coastline views.
You can also visit Halcyon Castle, a historic palace converted into a luxury hotel. The nearby Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary is another must-visit attraction, where you can take a boat ride on the reservoir and spot various species of birds and animals.
Marari Beach
Marari Beach is in the Alappuzha district. To reach Marari Beach, you can fly into Cochin International Airport and then take a hire car to the beach. You can also travel by train to Alappuzha Railway Station and then travel by road to Marari.
Marari Beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and pristine surroundings. It provides a great escape from the busy city life. While visiting Marari Beach, you can also explore the famous backwaters of Kerala by taking a houseboat cruise.
These cruises offer a unique experience of staying on a traditional houseboat while sailing through the serene backwaters, passing through picturesque villages and lush green landscapes.
Lakkidi View Point
Lakkidi View Point is a popular tourist attraction in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is known for its breathtaking scenes of the Western Ghats mountain range and the valleys.
To reach Lakkidi View Point, you can fly into Calicut International Airport and then take a taxi or hire a car to the destination. You can also travel by train to Kozhikode Railway Station and then travel by road to Lakkidi.
Lakkidi View Point offers various activities and experiences besides enjoying the scenic views. You can go hiking or trekking in the nearby hills and forests, explore the spice plantations in the region, or visit the nearby Pookode Lake for boating and wildlife spotting. Lakkidi View Point is also great for photography enthusiasts, as it offers stunning vistas and natural beauty.
Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple
Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple is a popular Hindu temple in the Chottanikkara village of Ernakulam district in Kerala, India. It is dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy and is thought to have healing powers.
The temple is known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere. To reach Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, one can take a taxi or a bus from Kochi, approximately 17 km away.
Nearby attractions include the Hill Palace Museum, which showcases a collection of artifacts belonging to the Kochi royal family, and the Poornathrayesa Temple, one of the oldest temples in Kerala.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts. Located in the Idukki and Ernakulam districts of Kerala, this sanctuary is home to different flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
To reach Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, one can take a bus or a taxi from Munnar, which is approximately 60 km away. Tourists can enjoy activities like trekking, bird watching, and wildlife photography while exploring the sanctuary. The sanctuary also offers guided tours to educate visitors about its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Wonderla Amusement Park
Wonderla Amusement Park, located in Kochi, is a popular entertainment destination for all ages. It is one of the largest amusement parks in India and offers a wide range of thrilling rides and attractions.
To reach Wonderla Amusement Park, one can take a taxi or a bus from Kochi city center. The park features water rides, roller coasters, virtual reality experiences, and live shows. It also has restaurants and souvenir shops for visitors to enjoy.
Wonderla Amusement Park is known for its safety standards and cleanliness, making it a great place for a fun-filled day with family and friends.
Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment, wildlife encounters, or thrilling adventures, these hidden gems have something to offer. Plan your visit accordingly, and check for any special activities or events during your stay to enhance your experience even further.
Conclusion
Kerala has much more to offer than just its famous tourist spots. These undiscovered places are perfect for travelers seeking offbeat experiences and want to connect with nature. So, next time you plan a trip to Kerala, add these places to visit in Kerala with family for an unforgettable experience!
