Things to do in Kerala

Explore wildlife in their natural habitats: Periyar National Park and Eravikulam National Park are among the top attractions for the wildlife enthusiasts. Spotting wildlife during jungle safari, bird watching, boating, bamboo rafting, hiking, camping, elephant rides, etc are the must do activities. Summers are the best time to explore the wildlife.

Witness scenic beauty through train ride: Go for a train ride through the Ernakulam-Kollam-Trivandrum route to mesmerise your soul by viewing the jaw dropping natural beauties of Kerala countryside such as paddy field, backwaters, coconut trees, lakes etc.

Cruise the backwaters on a houseboat: Touring Kerala without imbibing the serenity of the backwaters is deemed to be highly unfair. A ride on a houseboat, locally known as Kettuvallams, is the best option to meander through the Kerala backwaters. Houseboat cruise in Alleppey is listed among the must do things in Kerala. The best time to experience a stay at a houseboat is October to March.

Revitalise yourself with Ayurvedic treatment: Kerala is the home to Ayurvedic practice since time immemorial. Monsoons are reckoned to be the best time to engage in ayurvedic treatments, spas or other therapies. The ayurvedic therapies combine natural herbs and oils with massage techniques to restore the natural body balance and render relaxation.

Catch a Kathakali dance performance: Watching a Kathakali dance performance is the best way to get acquainted with Kerala culture. This traditional dance form encompasses gesture-filled performance along with facial expressions, adorned with beautiful face masks. The performances are mostly centered on Indian epics and they become lively with the exceptional costumes and makeup of the performers.

Get a glimpse of Kalaripayattu form of martial art: Witness a 60-minute demonstration of the ancient martial art form Kalaripayattu. Weaponry, strikes, kicks, healing methods, ets are the predominant forms of Kalaripayattu. The opening ceremony of the performance is worth watching. Catch a show at Kadathanadan Kalari Centre in Thekkady.

Watch a snake boat race: 110 rowers on 141 feet long canoes compete with the similar boats for various trophies is a true treat to the eyes. Mostly the snake boat races take place during the monsoons. You can take part in the boat race to gain an enthralling experience.

Hoping and chilling at the beaches: From indulging into water sports activities to relaxing and embracing peace, the beaches of Kerala never fail to enthuse its visitors. Every beach of Kerala has something or the other to offer. For instance, water sports activities are popular at Kovalam beach, Samudra beach is a romantic getaway for couples, Marari beach offers a serene environment and so on.

Taste the local and traditional Kerala cuisines: Savouring the finger licking Kerala cuisine is a wholesome exceptional experience in itself. The incorporation of the homegrown spices adds the delectability of recipes, which also possesses the influence of Arabia, Malabar and France. Sadhya is the traditional vegetarian meal of Kerala which is served on a banana leaf and is a must-try if you are visiting Kerala for the first time.

Experience a cultural festival: Learn about the festivals of the month you are planning to visit Kerala. The state is famous for celebrating multiple and delightful festivals and if you hold interest in knowing about the culture, customs and traditions of the place then you must attend the festivals of Kerala. Onam, Thrissur Pooram, Vishu, Theyyam, Attukal Pongala are among the most popular festivals.

Exploring heritage sites: The ancient temples, churches, forts, palaces, museums and other architecture present a glimpse of the culture and traditions of the bygone era. The plethora of heritage sites is clear evidence of the rich history of Kerala. The carvings, constructions and murals speak for the artistic brilliance of the designers.