Kerala speaks a lot about the nature, the un-destroyed forest reserves and the beautiful landscapes takes us through the true nature of earth. Though my trip was very short to Kerala I had a chance to view some of the natural beauties of this city. Here are the top four must-visit destinations for nature lovers. All of these destinations will be covered when you choose tour packages to Kerala.
1. Athirappilly Falls, Thrissur District
This waterfall is located on the Chalakudy river and is almost 85 meters in height. There is no public transport in this region, you need to make your own transport from Kochi (which is a two hour drive). This is a very popular picnic spot of both tourists and the locals. You need to trek along downwards for about a mile and half where you get the best vantage view of this water fall. Showering under this waterfall is prohibited and the danger areas are marked, where you would not be allowed. This is also a major attraction for film makers. Thanks to Kerala tourism for preserving this nature spot.
Athirappilly Falls, Thrissur District
2. Munnar Tea Plantations, Idukki District
This is the first attraction that all Kerala tour packages include. The journey through the tea plantations through Munnar is a really breathtaking experience. The road is very narrow and curvy which makes it one of the most difficult roads to drive in Kerala. There is also a factory outlet where you can buy tea powder and other products. You can also go into the Tata Tea Museum along the way from Munnar to Thekkady, but remember this would be closed on National holidays. Plucking the leaves from the tea gardens is strictly prohibited. Remember this would be one of the most rocking journey you would experience in your lifetime. There are plenty of Kochi to Munnar taxi services if you are arriving at Kochi airport and want to directly visit Munnar.
Munnar Tea Planations, Idukki District
3. Periyar National Park, Idukki District
Periyar National Park in Idukki District is one of the notable wildlife sanctuaries of south India. There is also a boat ride in the Periyar Lake but is open to limited public. The boat ride starts from 7:30am in the morning and accommodates only two hundred people in one batch. There are five batches everyday which are seperated by a two hour interval. The boat ride costs you around 200 INR (about 4-5 USD). You can spot elephants and few birds along your boat ride through the Periyar Lake. The boat ride lasts about one and half hour. The only way to enter this park is through the Thekkady gate which is in the Kumily district. I would advice you to hire a pair of binoculars that are available on the entrance of the gate, to view the wild animals much closer.
Periyar National Park, Idukki District
4. Kovalam Beachs, 17kms from Trivandrum
Kovalam is a small town that is located around 17 kilometers from Trivandrum. This town is famous for its beaches mainly the Lighthouse beach. The name of the beach comes from the lighthouse that is located on this beach and is 35 meters in height. Finding your way to this beach is quiet tricky. The best time to visit beaches would be in the noon, but if you are looking for a peaceful and calm atmosphere I recommend you to visit this beach early during the sunrise or in the late evening. Entering the waters is prohibited at night because the tides form the Arabian Sea become stong during this time.
Early morning view of the Lighthouse Beach in Kovalam
