1 Indulge in Kerala’s Diverse Cuisine
Food lovers flock to Kerala for a reason. The cuisine here is a delightful fusion influenced by various cultures from different parts of the world. Sampling the local dishes is an essential part of your Kerala adventure, promising a delightful culinary journey.
Must-try Keralan dishes include: Puttu and Kadala Curry, Kerala Prawn Curry, and Fish Molee.
2 Experience an Authentic Ayurveda Massage
Kerala offers more than just breathtaking landscapes and historical sites; it has also gained a reputation as a holistic wellness destination. With numerous resorts and spas providing Ayurvedic treatments, you can indulge in therapies designed to alleviate stress and heal your body. The natural herbs used in these therapies will rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.
Top backwater destinations in Kerala include: Alleppey, Kollam, Kumarakom, Kuttanad, and Kasaragod.
3 Immerse Yourself in Authentic Village Life
Many villages in Kerala, preserved from industrialization’s impact, retain their original charm. Picturesque paddy fields, vibrant flowers, and swaying coconut trees add a rustic allure to your journey. The tribal communities boast a rich cultural heritage, and the locals are known for their warm hospitality. You’ll gain insights into their simple lifestyles and perhaps learn the value of minimalism.
Scenic villages to visit in Kerala include: Vaikom, Pallakad, Kumarakom, Thrissur, Kovalam, and Thekkady.
4 Dedicate a Day to Shopping
In Kerala, you’ll find charming streets on one hand and bustling marketplaces in the cities on the other. Renowned for its wide range of products—from spices to textiles, antiques to essential oils—visiting these markets is an enjoyable experience that immerses you in the local culture.
Highlights to shop for in Kerala include: Spices, Aroma oils, Handicraft items, Kasavu Mundu, and banana chips.
5 Explore Kerala’s Exquisite Palaces
With its royal and rich history, Kerala boasts some of the grandest palaces in India. Visiting these magnificent structures should top your list of activities in Kerala. Many of these heritage sites have been transformed into luxury hotels, allowing you to experience their opulence firsthand by spending a night or two.
Notable palaces to visit include: Kanakakunnu Palace, Hill Palace Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Paliam Palace, and Krishnapuram Palace.
6 Visit the Iconic Temples of Kerala
Known as the ‘Land of Gods,’ Kerala is home to some of the most significant temple structures in the world. These ancient temples, some dating back over 2000 years, are a major attraction for visitors, with fascinating architecture and captivating stories behind their origins.
Key temples to explore in Kerala include: Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple, Chottanikara Devi Temple in Ernakulam, and Lokanarkavu Temple in Kozhikode.
7 Discover the Majestic Forts
Forts have a storied past and were once centers of political and social activity. Many of Kerala’s forts overlook the Arabian Sea and provide a glimpse into the region’s historical significance. A visit to these architectural marvels is an essential experience during your Kerala journey.
Notable forts to visit include: Bekal Fort, Fort Kochi, Palakkad Fort, Thalassery Fort, Chandragiri Fort, and Anjuthengu Fort.
8 Enjoy a Live Folk Dance Performance
Folk dance in Kerala is a captivating mix of music, drama, and dance that narrates tales from Indian epics. The artists dedicatedly perfect their expressive gestures and facial expressions. Witnessing a traditional dance performance is one of the most enchanting experiences you can have in Kerala.
Must-see dance forms in Kerala include: Kathakali, Mohiniyaattam, Koodiyattam, Thirayattam, and Chavittu Nadakam.
9 Witness the Iconic Chinese Fishing Nets
One of Kerala’s most photographed sights is the Chinese fishing nets, introduced to the local fishermen in the 14th century. Made from bamboo and teak, these nets feature unique and stunning designs, making them a must-see attraction.
Best locations to view Chinese fishing nets include: Kochi, Ernakulam, Kuzhuppilly, and Kollam.
10 Choose Local Homestays
The charming homestays in Kerala offer a serene retreat amidst stunning natural beauty. They are highly recommended as they provide the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility in untouched surroundings. Staying in a homestay allows you to delve deeper into the culture and lifestyle of the locals.
Top homestays to consider include: Hari Vihar in Calicut, Vismaya Villa in Vembanad, Ayisha Manzil in Kannur, Akkarakalam Memoirs in Alleppey, and Marari Dreamz Homestay at Marari Beach.
11 Attend Vibrant Temple Festivals
Temple festivals in Kerala are grand and colorful, each with its own rich lore and traditions. The extravagant presence of decorated elephants, accompanied by traditional drumming, music, fireworks, and various rituals, makes these festivals a captivating experience.
Notable temple festivals include: Thrissur Pooram, Attukal Pongala, Vallanghy Nenmara Vela, Peruvanam Pooram, and Parippally Gajamela.
12 Witness a Snake Boat Race
Boat races are an integral part of Kerala’s cultural identity. The traditional long canoes, measuring between 100 to 120 feet, are raced by teams of over 100 rowers, creating an electrifying atmosphere filled with colorful boats and rhythmic drums. Experiencing a race in the beautiful backwaters is a must while in Kerala.
Prominent boat races to attend include: Champakkulam Moolam Boat Race, Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Uthradam Thirunal Pamba Boat Race, Payippad Boat Race, and Aranmula Boat Race.
13 Expand Your Knowledge at Local Museums
Visiting museums is one of the best ways to gain insights into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. These museums showcase the lifestyle of past generations along with traditional arts and architectural wonders. There are a variety of museums, each focusing on different aspects of Kerala’s history and culture.
Notable museums to visit in Kerala include: Arakkal Kettu Museum, Archaeological Museum Thrissur, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Ethnological Museum, and Kerala Folklore Museum.
14 Appreciate the Local Art
Kerala’s rich cultural heritage is vividly expressed through its arts and crafts. Exploring the local handicrafts is an essential experience, showcasing a palette of vibrant colors. Visitors can find captivating products such as shell and coir items, metal jewelry, and intricate carvings in rosewood and sandalwood, all created by skilled artisans.
Best places to explore local art include: Iringal Crafts Village, Kerala Kalamandalam, Kashi Art Gallery, David Hall Art Gallery, and Sree Chitra Art Gallery.
15 Discover the Caves of Kerala
In addition to its stunning scenery, Kerala offers a chance to explore its natural caves, which are significant for both the state and the country. These caves provide a glimpse into prehistoric civilizations, with many findings and carvings dating back over 5000 years, along with statues and sculptures of deities.
Noteworthy caves to explore in Kerala include: Edakkal Caves, Pakshipathalam Cave, Cave of Kotthavalam, Pandavan Rock Cave, and Kotkatalkeller.
So, how does a life surrounded by swaying palm trees, serene hill retreats, beautiful national parks, and thrilling experiences sound to you? Is there any other destination besides Kerala that allows you to rejuvenate and connect with yourself? We hope this list of amazing things to do in Kerala will help you craft an unforgettable holiday.
