A Romantic Week in Kerala

Located in the iconic Idukki district in Kerala, Thekkady - a small region is known for its various mesmerizing sites such as Periyar National Park and Periyar Tiger Reserve, both of which beckon tourists from across the nation. Encompassing an expansive 770 square kilometers, with approximately 360 square kilometers wrapped in evergreen forests, the Periyar National Park offers exploration, nature strolls, and wildlife encounters. One can easily spot elephants, sambar, tigers, Indian bison, langurs, and macaques.

In proximity to the reserve lie additional stupefying attractions like Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple, the Cardamom Hills, the Chellar Kovil waterfalls, and much more. Multiple scintillating scenic vistas could be enjoyed easily as Thekkady is blessed to be geographically near the Western Ghats; hence is a great place for nature enthusiasts who love trekking and hiking through its mist-shrouded hills. Panoramic views of the meandering Periyar River forming a reservoir with the Mullaperiyar Dam could be relished in the Park's expanse.

Embellished with seemingly boundless stretches of tea gardens blanketing the rising and falling hills and valleys, Munnar is one of the most visited and cherished travel destinations in South India. Perched on an elevation of nearly 6,000 feet within Kerala's Idukki district, this alluring town provides a soothing refuge from sweltering heat waves during summer months. Munnar is known to offer awe-inspiring vistas and a taste of adventure. As a haven for exotic flora and fauna, positioned amid the Western Ghats' peaks, this amazing hill station offers a safe paradise for endangered species within the confines of Eravikulam National Park and Kurinjimala Sanctuary.

Get a glance at the colossal Anamudi Peak, the tallest summit in South India, from picturesque Munnar. Moreover, the rare and exquisite 'Neelakurinji' flower blooms upon the hills' slopes, gracing Munnar once every twelve years. The serene ambiance further gains its charm from the tranquil lakes and reservoirs located amidst towering mountains, instilling a sense of calm and relaxation.

Kumarakom, located in the heart of Kerala's Kuttanad region, stands as a charming hamlet. Often hailed as the rice bowl of India, Kumarakom has transformed from a fertile realm of agriculture to an enchanting village that attracts visitors from across the globe. The primary allure of Kumarakom lies in its renowned backwater cruises, offering travelers a chance to immerse themselves in tranquility and elegance. Beyond this, numerous captivating sites await exploration in and around the village.

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary emerges as a haven for birdwatchers, with kingfishers, woodpeckers, owls, and even migratory species like the Siberian crane gracing its landscapes. The Kumarakom Beach presents yet another focal point for tourists, overflowing with activities such as swimming, boating, parasailing, and windsurfing. The beachside resorts are quite popular for their rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages and spa therapies. The Bay Island Driftwood Museum showcases an array of unique artifacts crafted from driftwood, while the venerable 1000-year-old Juma Masjid mosque and its stunning architecture is also a sight worth watching.

A prominent maritime city in South India, Cochin, affectionately referred to as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea,' presents an enchanting fusion of contemporary urban life and timeless allure. The city's core is a thriving metropolis, serving as a burgeoning software hub of the nation. Stepping away from the bustling urban lanes, you'll encounter the idyllic village existence, where traditional homes line the shores of the lakes and lagoons that interlace this region. The impressive Chinese fishing nets, heaving up abundant catches from the depths of the lagoon, paint a captivating picture.

Within Cochin, Mattancherry offers a glimpse of the region's hospitality. An essential visit is to the Jewish District and the Jewish Synagogue. Alongside, you'll find the Santa Cruz Basilica, Dutch Palace, and Kerala Folklore Museum enticing visitors with their unique offerings. Rejuvenate your spirit with leisurely strolls along Cherai Beach and Marine Drive. Immerse yourself in the alluring ambiance of Bolgatty Palace and savor the distinctive flavors of Kerala cuisine while in this charismatic city.

Commonly referred to as 'Venice of the East', Alleppey earns this nickname owing to its abundance of backwater lakes and lagoons. This Indian city is a major stop in Kerala, characterized by its glistening golden paddy fields panorama during the harvest season. Nature has embellished Alleppey lavishly, gifting it serene lakes, meandering rivers, and gently swaying palm trees; making it undeniably a paradise on Earth, adorned with both indigenous and exotic customs. Yet another magical and enchanting experience would be embarking on a night cruise aboard a houseboat.

The zeal with which locals appreciate and participate in snake boat races on Vembanad Lake, generating a thrilling ambiance, is something that one cannot dare to miss.

Kovalam, a charming coastal hamlet in Kerala, lives up to its name which translates to 'a cluster of coconut trees', as it is adorned by an abundance of these graceful trees. Kovalam is a perfect place for beach bums as it is home to three pristine sandy beaches - Samudra Beach, Hawa Beach, and Lighthouse Beach, each holding a distinctive character, alluring numerous travelers to its breathtaking setting. There is more to Kovalam as it is a renowned wellness sanctuary. Most of the resorts in the area offer Ayurvedic massages, yoga retreats, herbal body treatments, and various soothing meditation classes.

Beyond its mesmerizing shores, Kovalam is quite a popular destination among water babies and aquatic enthusiasts as it provides the perfect surfboarding retreat where one could take surfboarding lessons and hire surfboards from the Kovalam Surf Club, located on the Lighthouse Beach. Furthermore, it is great for experiencing day on catamaran cruises, a well-liked activity among locals and tourists alike.

Renowned for its temples, palaces, captivating beaches, a juxtaposition of modern and ancient architectural marvels, and a bustling center of diverse pursuits, the historical capital of Kerala boasts a plethora of captivating attractions. Among the many remarkable sights, you'll encounter the likes of Padmanabhapuram Palace, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Peppara Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary, Ruvikkara Dam, Poovar, Koyikkal Palace, Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary, Kowdiar Palace, Agasthyakoodam, Kanakakunnu Palace, and Anchuthengu Fort.