GURUVAYUR

Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple is the main attraction, revered by millions of devotees. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the most significant temples in South India. Visitors can attend rituals, witness the daily poojas, and participate in the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.

The temple is home to several elephants, and you can see them in the temple premises or at the Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary. This camp is dedicated to the care and training of elephants. It's a great place to learn about elephant conservation and interact with the gentle giants.

MUNNAR

Located about 9 km from Munnar, Attukal Waterfalls is a beautiful spot, especially during the monsoon season when the falls are in full flow. It’s a great place for trekking and photography amidst nature.

Munnar is famous for its expansive tea plantations. A visit to places like Kolukkumalai Tea Estate (the highest tea plantation in the world) or Tata Tea Museum allows you to learn about the tea-making process, enjoy scenic views of lush green hills, and taste fresh tea.

Eravikulam National Park this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for nature lovers. It is home to the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered species of mountain goat. You can take a guided trek to the Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

The Mattupetty Dam is an iconic spot near Munnar. You can enjoy a boat ride on the Mattupetty Reservoir, take in the views of the surrounding hills, or visit the nearby Mattupetty Dairy Farm. The area is also great for picnics and relaxed walks.

Munnar has several resorts offering Ayurvedic spa treatments, where you can relax and rejuvenate with traditional Kerala therapies amidst the scenic beauty of the hills.

About 15 km from Munnar, Echo Point is a scenic spot known for its natural echo phenomenon. It’s a fun place to shout and hear your voice bounce back from the surrounding hills. The lush green surroundings add to its charm.

Top Station is the highest point in Munnar and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and the valley below. The area is also famous for the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years and blanket the hills in blue. It’s a great spot for photography and trekking.

THEKKADY

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the main attraction in Thekkady, known for its rich biodiversity. It covers around 925 square kilometers of forest and wildlife. The sanctuary is home to a variety of species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, sambar deer, and wild boars.

Thekkady is famous for its spice plantations, especially cardamom, pepper, vanilla, nutmeg, and clove. Take a guided tour through the spice plantations to learn about the cultivation process, the various spices grown here, and their medicinal uses. The tours usually include a walk through the lush plantations, where you can also sample fresh spices.

A boat ride on Periyar Lake is one of the best ways to experience the serene beauty of Thekkady. The lake, surrounded by dense forests, offers a chance to enjoy the lush green landscape and spot wildlife, particularly during early morning or late afternoon boat rides.

Take an elephant ride through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s a unique and thrilling experience that gives you a closer look at the forest and its wildlife from the back of an elephant.

Thekkady offers opportunities to experience traditional Kerala arts like Kalaripayattu (a form of martial arts) and Kathakali (a classical dance-drama form). You can attend live performances at various cultural centers and resorts in the area.

ALLEPPEY

Alleppey (Alappuzha), known as the "Venice of the East," is famous for its backwaters, houseboats, and scenic beauty. A houseboat cruise through the backwaters is the highlight of a visit to Alleppey. Beyond the houseboat ride, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the area.

The primary attraction in Alleppey is the iconic houseboat cruise through the backwaters. Houseboats, or Kettuvallams, are traditional wooden boats converted into luxurious floating homes. You can take a day or overnight cruise along the backwaters, exploring the tranquil surroundings, paddy fields, small islands, and quaint villages.

KOVALAM

Lighthouse Beach: The most famous beach in Kovalam, known for its lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the coastline. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities. Don’t forget to climb up the Lighthouse for a stunning view of the Arabian Sea.

Hawah Beach: A quieter, more serene beach compared to Lighthouse Beach. Ideal for peaceful walks along the shore, relaxing, and enjoying the gentle waves.

Samudra Beach: Located a bit further from the main Kovalam beach area, Samudra Beach offers a more private and calm experience. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some peace.

TRIVANDRUM

One of the most famous landmarks in Thiruvananthapuram, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Known for its grand Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings, it is one of the 108 DivyaDesams (sacred shrines of Lord Vishnu). The temple is a major pilgrimage site, and non-Hindus are not allowed inside the inner sanctum. However, the temple complex and its surroundings are beautiful to explore.

Poovar Island is a picturesque spot located about 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram. It is a beautiful place where the river meets the sea and is known for its pristine beaches, backwaters, and fishing villages. A boat ride through the mangrove forests and backwaters is a must-do here.

COCHIN

Cochin (Kochi), located on the southwest coast of India, is a vibrant city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modernity. Known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," it has a rich maritime history, colonial architecture, and a thriving arts scene.

The Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, located about 17 km from Cochin (Kochi) in Chottanikkara, is one of the most famous and revered temples in Kerala. Dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy (a form of Durga), this temple is known for its spiritual significance and tranquil surroundings. It attracts thousands of devotees each year, particularly those seeking relief from mental or physical ailments.

The Chinese Fishing Nets in Fort Kochi are iconic and one of the most photographed landmarks in Cochin. These large, unique nets are set up along the shoreline, and you can watch fishermen operate them. It’s a picturesque spot and offers a glimpse into traditional fishing methods used in the region for centuries.

Located in Fort Kochi, the St. Francis Church is the oldest European church in India. It was originally built by the Portuguese in 1503, and Vasco da Gama was initially buried here. The church is a beautiful example of Portuguese colonial architecture and a place of quiet reflection.

The Santa Cruz Basilica is a beautiful cathedral located in Fort Kochi. It is one of the oldest and most prominent churches in India. The church has stunning frescoes, stained-glass windows, and a peaceful ambiance. It’s an architectural gem reflecting the Portuguese influence in Kerala.

The Paradesi Synagogue in Jew Town, built in 1568, is one of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth. The synagogue is famous for its beautiful interiors, with hand-painted Chinese tiles and a historic clock tower. Jew Town itself is a vibrant area with antique shops, spice markets, and a blend of cultural influences. It’s a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and antiques.

The Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a beautiful example of Kerala-style architecture. It was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch. The palace houses a collection of murals depicting Hindu temple art, royal portraits, and exhibits related to the history of the region. The palace is located near Mattancherry and is a great place to explore Kerala's royal history.