Kerala, located by the Malabar Coast of India to the south, is a very popular tourist paradise among Indian and foreign tourists alike. Also called God’s own country, Kerala is a strikingly spectacular destination named by the National Geographic’s Traveller magazine as one of the “ten paradises of the world” in 2012 and also among one of the “50 must-see destinations of a lifetime.”
The most unparalleled aspect of Kerala is its varied demographics that consist of thick green forests, wildlife sanctuaries packed with exotic and endangered flora and fauna, astounding backwaters, magnificent hill stations, stunning beaches, gushing waterfalls and historical treasures like caves, ports, and forts. Kerala also boasts a rich and vibrant culture, and the hospitality here is unmatched.
Though it is practically impossible to cover entire Kerala in a single day, several one day trips can be planned within Kerala. While making the Kerala tour plan, be sure to check out the cheap tour packages to make the Kerala expedition economic as well. Many locations are ideal for a one day trip to Kerala. Here they are-
- Munnar
Located in the Idukki district of Kerala, Munnar can literally be referred to as the heaven on earth for its towering mountains enveloped by the lush green tea plantations that would make the visitors feel welcomed. The crooked serpentine roads connecting to and fro from Munnar make it hard to journey through the entire Munnar in a single day. However, Eravikulam National Park is an ideal spot that can be chosen for a one day trip. The highest peak of the south in India, Anamudi, is located within this park. With cascading waterfalls, dense forests, and picturesque grasslands, Eravikulam National Park is a wonder on its own.
Home to many endangered species of flora and fauna, not the entire park is accessible to the public. Once inside the park, private vehicles are not allowed to explore the park in order to preserve the precious land. The only option to trail the park is on foot, and the Kerala Tourism Department provides bus services up to a certain distance within the park. The Nilgiri Tahr is an exotic species that is unique to this area. Once in 12 years, Eravikulam National Park gets carpeted by the beauty of blue-colored neelakurinji flowers, and it is one such time that attracts tourists from all across the globe like swarms of flies. Eravikulam National Park is located at a distance of 120 km from Munnar.
- Athirapally waterfalls
Situated in the Athirapally Panchayat of Chalakkudy in Thrissur District, the Athirapally Vazhachal waterfall is the largest in Kerala. This gushing waterfall originates at the upper ranges of the Western Ghats at the entrance to the Sholayar Range and cascades down to the Chalakkudy River. The most stunning peculiarity of the Athirapally Vazhachal waterfalls is the greenery of the thick forest encompassing the falls. This splendid spot served as the location of many Indian movies.
During the monsoon season, the Athirapally waterfalls is a sight to behold. Known as the Niagara of India, the Athirapally waterfalls is an exceptional natural fascination. The forest surrounding the falls is home to several exotic flora and fauna. Daily safari trips are arranged by the tourism department from here to Malakkappara.
- Fort Kochi
There isn’t a better place to relish the rich and vivid culture and heritage of God’s own country. Situated within the city of Kochi adjacent to the old town of Mattanchery, Fort Kochi is a sea-side aesthetic location noted for various specialties, including the Dutch, British, and Portuguese colonial architecture that is also the reminisce of its glorious history. Fort Kochi is one such magnetic place that has a lot to offer and has the charm to captivate the visitors to come back for more. Fort Kochi is the gateway to Kerala tourism as most of the foreign tourists’ first land here when in Kerala.
During the art carnival of the Muziris Biennale, artists from all around the world grace this haven with their precious art. The Indo-Portuguese Museum, Fort Kochi Beach, Santa Cruz Basilica, Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and the Jain Temple are all must-visits while here. Fort Kochi is also the best place to go on a souvenir haul. To wind up the Fort Kochi trip, there is no better way than to witness the sunset by the Chinese Fishing Nets. This view is sure to be engraved in the mind.
- Kumarakom Houseboat
Lying in the backdrop of Vembanad Lake in the Kottayam District of Kerala, Kumarakom is a panoramic locale, famous for its houseboats, and there cannot be a better one day trip if not gliding and swaying on these stunning backwaters. Kumarakom is the ideal location to chill and relax while on a Kerala holiday. The breathtaking backwaters overlooked by the greenery of paddy fields and coconut palms might seem like a fairytale. If these sites are not enough, a group of migratory birds might make a visit to enthrall the visitors. Fishing and boating are other activities that the tourists can engage in while here.
Kerala has a profuse number of destinations to offer that can serve as an ideal one-day trip location, which can be found under low price holiday packages. The best thing about Kerala is that both luxurious and economical trips can be planned within this mesmerizing place. It is hard to leave Kerala, for it is one of the most spectacular havens in India. The hospitality of Keralites, delicious cuisines and pleasant weather throughout the year add to its charm and are other factors that appeal to the tourists besides the variant and breathtaking demographics.
Sara Wales