Kerala, the ‘God’s Own Country’ as many would eloquently put it, is a symphony of lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, and vivacious cultural experiences. While the world often recognizes Kerala by its famous tea estates of Munnar, the tranquil houseboats of Alleppey, or the traditional Kathakali performances, there’s another, more secret side to this South Indian state.
A side that remains untouched by throngs of tourists and retains the charm of old-world Kerala. Here’s introducing ten offbeat destinations in Kerala that deserve your footprints.
Exploring Kerala’s Hidden Gems: 10 Unique Offbeat Destinations to Experience
1. Nelliyampathy – The Unspoiled Beauty
Distance and Route: About 60 km from Palakkad.
About: Tucked away in the folds of the Western Ghats, Nelliyampathy remains a cherished secret. As one traverses its winding roads punctuated by hairpin turns, every bend reveals breathtaking vistas of sprawling forests and verdant valleys.
Amidst its vast orange orchards, where mists play hide and seek with the mountains, and a tapestry of flora and fauna unfolds, Nelliyampathy beckons both the ardent nature lover and the passionate shutterbug. A serene escape that promises memories to treasure.
What to Do:
- Trekking: Explore the bio-diverse terrains.
- Photography: Capture the verdant beauty, especially at points like Seethargundu and Kesavampara.
- Tea and Coffee Plantation Visits: Understand the nuances of cultivation.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore, followed by a road journey.
- By Train: Palakkad is the nearest railway station.
- By Road: State-run and private buses are available from Palakkad.
2. Mararikulam – Beyond the Shores
Distance and Route: Around 11 km from Alappuzha (Alleppey).
About: Mararikulam, with its pristine Marari Beach, is a haven for those who wish to experience the Kerala coast without the usual touristy hustle.
The soft sands, swaying coconut trees, and a gentle breeze set the tone for a relaxing day. The traditional fishing village vibe further adds to the allure.
What to Do:
- Beach Activities: Sunbathing, beach volleyball, and swimming.
- Village Walk: Understand the local fishing culture.
- Ayurvedic Spa: Experience traditional Kerala wellness treatments.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kochi International Airport is the closest.
- By Train: Alappuzha Railway Station is the nearest.
- By Road: Regular buses ply from Alleppey and Kochi.
3. Ponmudi – The Golden Peak
Distance and Route: Approximately 55 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
About: While many hill stations claim the limelight, Ponmudi remains Kerala’s best-kept secret. Nestled within the embrace of the Western Ghats, its moniker ‘Golden Peak’ resonates with its sun-kissed tea gardens, meandering rivers, and lush tropical forests.
Renowned for its vibrant butterfly populations, Ponmudi is an idyllic destination for both the avid trekker and the visitor seeking solace in a leisurely walk through the clouds.
- Trekking: Explore the hills and echo points.
- Tea Garden Tours: Witness tea processing.
- Bird Watching: The region has a diverse avian population.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest.
- By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central Station is closest.
- By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Thiruvananthapuram.
4. Kumbalangi – A Village Experience
Distance and Route: Roughly 15 km from Kochi.
About: Kumbalangi is not just another pin on the map; it’s a heartfelt experience. Proudly holding the title of India’s premier ecotourism village, this enclave offers a rich tapestry of experiences.
Engage in age-old fishing methods, be spellbound by sunsets that drape the backwaters in golden hues, and tantalize your palate with the true flavors of Kerala, crafted from the freshest catches of the day.
What to Do:
- Backwater Cruises: Explore the serene waterways.
- Fishing: Try out traditional fishing methods.
- Cultural Tours: Engage with the local art forms and cuisines.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kochi International Airport.
- By Train: Ernakulam Junction.
- By Road: Direct buses and taxis from Kochi.
5. Silent Valley – Where Nature Speaks
Distance and Route: About 66 km from Palakkad.
About: Silent Valley National Park is a canvas of nature in its purest form. This protected reserve boasts a rich tapestry of ecosystems, sheltering rare orchids, medicinal herbs, and species teetering on the brink of extinction.
The gracefully winding Kuntipuzha River adds an ethereal charm, threading through the park’s heart. For those with a penchant for unspoiled landscapes and vibrant wildlife, Silent Valley beckons as an unmissable retreat.
What to Do:
- Jungle Safari: Explore the diverse flora and fauna.
- Bird Watching: Spot endemic and migratory species.
- Nature Walks: Engage in the serenity of the park.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Coimbatore Airport.
- By Train: Palakkad Railway Station.
- By Road: Taxis from Palakkad or hired vehicles with forest permits.
6. Edakkal Caves – Scribbles from the Past
Distance and Route: Nearly 25 km from Kalpetta.
About: The Edakkal Caves are far from ordinary. Nestled atop the Ambukuthi Hill, they stand as silent custodians of ancient petroglyphs, some tracing their origins over 3,000 years back in time.
These intricate carvings serve as a poignant gateway into the lives, cultures, and philosophies of our forebears, positioning Edakkal as not just a site of natural beauty, but a monumental testament to history itself.
What to Do:
- Cave Exploration: Understand the ancient petroglyphs.
- Trekking: The caves are situated on an elevation.
- Photography: The view from the caves offers panoramic shots.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kozhikode Airport.
- By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station.
- By Road: Buses/taxis from Kalpetta or Sulthan Bathery.
7. Vagamon – The Meadow’s Whisper
Distance and Route: Around 100 km from Kochi.
About: Vagamon is nature’s canvas painted with the broad strokes of Rolling Meadows, punctuated by dense pine forests and adorned with delicate orchids. This picturesque hill station is more than just its landscapes; it’s a harmonious confluence of culture and nature.
The heart of Vagamon beats at the Kurisumala Ashram, a haven for spiritual seekers. Enveloped in mist and drenched in greenery, Vagamon is the very embodiment of a dream tucked away from the beaten path.
What to Do:
- Paragliding: Adventure sports amidst the meadows.
- Nature Walks: Explore the pine forests and waterfalls.
- Spiritual Retreat: Visit the Kurisumala Ashram.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kochi International Airport.
- By Train: Kottayam Railway Station.
- By Road: Buses and taxis from Kottayam and Kochi.
8. Thirunelli – A Spiritual Sojourn
Distance and Route: Approximately 30 km from Mananthavady.
About: Nestled in the shadow of the majestic Brahmagiri Hills, Thirunelli emerges not just as a visual delight but as a soulful retreat. At its core stands the ancient Thirunelli Temple, a testament to time, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Further enriching its spiritual ambiance is the Papanashini stream, whispered to cleanse one’s soul of worldly sins. Thirunelli beckons the traveler seeking solace, offering a harmonious blend of nature’s embrace and spiritual awakening.
What to Do:
- Temple Visit: Seek blessings at the Thirunelli Temple.
- Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding Brahmagiri Hills.
- River Dip: Experience the sacred Papanashini stream.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kannur International Airport.
- By Train: Thalassery Railway Station.
- By Road: Buses/taxis from Mananthavady.
9. Thrissilery Shiva Temple – Echoes of Legend
Distance and Route: Close to 20 km from Mananthavady.
About: The Thrissilery Shiva Temple is not merely a monument of faith; it stands as a testament to time, tales, and traditions. Crafted in the distinct architectural finesse of Kerala, local lore whispers that this sacred edifice was sculpted from the earth in just a single day.
Cocooned by the enigmatic embrace of dense woods, the temple’s very air thrums with stories of yore and promises of miracles. Pilgrims and travelers alike are drawn to its doors, seeking the benevolent grace believed to turn earnest prayers into reality.
What to Do:
- Temple Pilgrimage: Understand the myths associated with the temple.
- Nature Exploration: The surrounding dense forests are worth exploring.
- Cultural Engagement: Interact with the locals to hear folklore.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kannur International Airport.
- By Train: Thalassery Railway Station.
- By Road: Direct buses/taxis from Mananthavady.
10. Pathiramanal – The Sands of Night
Distance and Route: Roughly 16 km from Alappuzha.
About: Located in the Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal is a small island rich in flora and fauna. It’s a bird watcher’s paradise, home to many rare species.
The island is accessible only by boat, adding to its secluded charm. The literal translation of Pathiramanal is ‘Sands of Night’, and true to its name, it offers a magical experience.
What to Do:
- Bird Watching: Spot rare species during migratory seasons.
- Nature Walks: Explore the unique flora on the island.
- Boat Rides: Approach the island on a boat while enjoying the Vembanad Lake.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kochi International Airport.
- By Train: Alappuzha Railway Station.
- By Road & Water: Buses to Alappuzha, followed by boat rides to the island.
Kerala’s beauty isn’t just about the most popular or marketed places. It’s in the small, undiscovered destinations that you experience the heart and soul of this beautiful state. So, pack your bags, let the travel bug bite, and embark on a journey to these offbeat destinations to discover a Kerala that’s been waiting just for you.
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