Tour to Kerala: Exploring God's Own Country in 7 Days

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is a land of unparalleled beauty. From serene backwaters and lush greenery to misty hills and pristine beaches, Kerala offers a mesmerizing blend of nature, culture, and history. If you’re planning a 7-day trip to Kerala, here’s a guide covering the best places to visit, the ideal time to go, and a detailed itinerary to make your experience unforgettable.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Kerala’s tropical climate makes it an all-year destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• October to February (Winter Season): Ideal for sightseeing, backwater cruises, and hill station visits. The weather is pleasant and cool.
• June to September (Monsoon Season): Perfect for Ayurvedic treatments amidst the lush green landscape rejuvenated by rains.
• March to May (Summer Season): Hot but a good time to explore hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.

For a balanced experience, October to February is highly recommended.

7-Day Kerala Tour Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Cochin (Kochi)

Highlights: Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, St. Francis Church, Chinese fishing nets

Start your journey in the historic city of Cochin. Visit Fort Kochi’s colonial landmarks and the vibrant Jew Town. Enjoy the sunset by the Chinese fishing nets.

Stay: Kochi

Day 2: Kochi to Munnar

Travel Time: ~4-5 hours

Highlights: Tea plantations, waterfalls (Valara, Cheeyappara), Eravikulam National Park

En route to Munnar, enjoy picturesque vistas of sprawling tea estates and cascading waterfalls. After arriving, explore Munnar’s serene environment.

Stay: Munnar

Day 3: Explore Munnar

Highlights: Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Top Station, Tea Museum

Dedicate this day to discovering Munnar’s treasures. Trek to Top Station for breathtaking views, and visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn about tea-making.

Stay: Munnar

Day 4: Munnar to Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)

Travel Time: ~3-4 hours

Highlights: Periyar Lake, spice plantations, Kathakali performances

Head to Thekkady, home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife and take a tour of spice plantations.

Stay: Thekkady

Day 5: Thekkady to Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Travel Time: ~4 hours

Highlights: Houseboat cruise on backwaters

Travel to Alleppey, known for its serene backwaters. Spend the day cruising on a traditional houseboat, enjoying the tranquil beauty of palm-lined canals.

Stay: Houseboat or backwater resort

Day 6: Alleppey to Kovalam (via Trivandrum)

Travel Time: ~4-5 hours

Highlights: Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam Beach, Hawa Beach

Drive to Kovalam, a coastal paradise. Relax on the golden sands of its beaches or visit the nearby capital city, Trivandrum, for some cultural exploration.

Stay: Kovalam

Day 7: Kovalam to Trivandrum Departure

Highlights: Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum

Conclude your Kerala trip by exploring Trivandrum’s cultural landmarks before catching your flight or train.

Additional Tips for Your Kerala Trip

Cuisine: Savor local dishes like appam with stew, Kerala parotta, and the iconic Kerala Sadya.

Packing: Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, rain gear (for monsoons), and comfortable footwear.

Transport: Private cabs are the most convenient, but public transport options like trains and buses are economical.

A week in Kerala is a journey into nature's embrace, offering tranquility and excitement at every turn. With this guide, you’re all set to experience the magic of "God’s Own Country." Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or someone seeking relaxation, Kerala promises memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Pack your bags and let the adventure begin! 🌴

Onam: The Joyous Harvest Festival of Kerala

Onam is one of the most vibrant and significant festivals celebrated in the southern Indian state of Kerala. This ten-day long festival is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage and agricultural traditions of the region. Onam falls during the Malayalam month of Chingam, usually in August or September. In 2023, Onam is expected to be celebrated from August 21st to August 30th. The festival is marked by elaborate rituals, traditional clothing, mouthwatering delicacies, and lively celebrations that bring together people of all ages and backgrounds.

Celebrations:

Onam celebrations begin with the Atham day and culminate with Thiruvonam, the most important day of the festival. The entire state immerses itself in festivities during this period. Each day has its significance, and people engage in various traditional activities, such as floral carpet-making (known as Pookkalam), traditional dance forms like Thiruvathira and Kaikottikali, boat races (Vallamkali), and tug-of-war (Onakalikal).

Traditional Clothing:

The traditional attire worn during Onam is the Kasavu saree for women and Mundu (dhoti) for men. The Kasavu saree is an elegant white saree with a golden border, and it holds special cultural importance. The men's Mundu is also white with a golden border, and it is worn along with a traditional shirt known as Mundu Neriyathu. People take great pride in dressing up in these traditional outfits during the festival.

Dishes for Onam:

The festival of Onam is incomplete without the scrumptious Onam Sadya (feast). Sadya is a grand, elaborate meal served on banana leaves and typically consists of over 20 different dishes, ranging from spicy curries, pickles, and savory snacks to mouthwatering desserts. Some of the must-have dishes in the Onam Sadya include Avial, Sambar, Thoran, Pachadi, Parippu Curry, Payasam, and more.

Most Liked Onam Songs:

Onam songs, also known as Onappaattu, are an integral part of the festival's celebrations. These songs are melodious and often describe the beauty of Kerala, the significance of Onam, and stories from Hindu mythology. Some of the most liked Onam songs include "Thiruvona Kaineettam," "Ponnona Tharangini," and "Maveli Nadu Vaneedum Kalam."

Significance of the Festival:

Onam is believed to be the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali, who is considered a just and benevolent ruler. The festival commemorates his annual visit to his beloved subjects in Kerala. It is also a harvest festival that celebrates the abundance of nature and the bountiful harvest season. The vibrant celebrations and rituals during Onam signify unity, prosperity, and cultural identity for the people of Kerala.

Onam Vacation:

During Onam, Kerala witnesses a festive exodus as people return to their ancestral homes to celebrate with their families. Schools and offices remain closed during this period to allow everyone to partake in the joyous festivities. The vacation extends for a few days, giving people ample time to engage in traditional activities and enjoy the company of their loved ones.

Conclusion:

Onam is a beautiful festival that showcases the unique cultural heritage and traditional values of Kerala. From the lavish feast of Onam Sadya to the enchanting Pookkalam decorations and the rhythmic boat races, the festival offers a delightful experience for both locals and visitors. The significance of Onam lies not only in its mythological origin but also in its ability to bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and joy. As Kerala prepares to celebrate Onam in 2023, the state is sure to be enveloped in the warm spirit of love, happiness, and togetherness.

Kerala : Reasons why you should visit Kerala !

Kerala, located on the southwestern coast of India, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, diverse culture, and rich heritage. 

Here are some reasons why you should visit Kerala:

Natural Beauty: Kerala is often referred to as "God's Own Country" due to its breathtaking natural landscapes. From serene backwaters and palm-fringed beaches to lush hill stations and cascading waterfalls, Kerala offers a diverse range of picturesque location.

Backwaters: The backwaters of Kerala, particularly in places like Alleppey and Kumarakom, are a major attraction. These tranquil waterways, formed by a network of canals, rivers, and lakes, provide a unique and peaceful experience. A popular way to explore the backwaters is by taking a houseboat cruise.

Ayurveda and Wellness: Kerala is renowned for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments and therapies. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages, spa treatments, and yoga retreats, offering a holistic approach to health and well-being.

Wildlife and Nature Reserves: Kerala is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, such as Periyar National Park and Eravikulam National Park. These protected areas provide opportunities for wildlife sightings, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds.

Cultural Heritage: Kerala has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by a mix of indigenous, Dravidian, and colonial traditions. Kathakali, a traditional dance-drama form, and classical music performances are popular cultural attractions. Additionally, Kerala's temples, palaces, and historical sites offer insights into its vibrant history.

Key Locations and Travel Time:

Kochi (Cochin): Known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," Kochi is a bustling port city and a popular tourist hub. It is known for its Chinese fishing nets, historic Fort Kochi, and colonial architecture. Travel time from the nearest airport, Cochin International Airport, to Kochi city center is approximately 1 hour.

Munnar: Situated in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, misty mountains, and waterfalls. It offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature. Travel time from Kochi to Munnar is around 3-4 hours by road.

Alleppey (Alappuzha): Alleppey is famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. It provides a unique experience of floating along the serene canals and lagoons. Travel time from Kochi to Alleppey is approximately 1.5-2 hours by road.

Kumarakom: Located near the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is another popular backwater destination. It is known for its bird sanctuary, luxury resorts, and serene ambiance. Travel time from Kochi to Kumarakom is around 2-3 hours by road.

Kovalam: Situated near the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Kovalam is a famous beach destination with pristine beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Travel time from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to Kovalam is approximately 30 minutes.

Most Visited Places:

Apart from the key locations mentioned above, other popular tourist spots in Kerala include:

Thekkady: Home to Periyar National Park, known for its wildlife and boat safaris.

Wayanad: A hill district offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.

Varkala: A coastal town known for its cliffs, sandy beaches, and Ayurvedic treatments.

Athirapally Waterfalls: A majestic waterfall located near the entrance of the Sholayar Forests.

Thrissur: Known as the cultural capital of Kerala, it hosts the vibrant Thrissur Pooram festival.

Sightseeing: Popular tourist attractions in Kerala include Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Athirapally Falls, Varkala Beach, Kovalam Beach, and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets in Kochi.

Houseboat Stay: A unique experience in Kerala is staying overnight on a traditional houseboat (known as a "kettuvallam") while cruising through the backwaters. It offers a glimpse into the local way of life.

Beaches: Kerala boasts beautiful beaches along its coastline, including Kovalam, Varkala, Cherai, and Marari. Visitors can relax, sunbathe, and indulge in water activities.

Cultural Experiences: Kathakali, a classical dance-drama, and Theyyam, a traditional ritualistic performance, are significant art forms in Kerala. Attending these performances is a must for cultural enthusiasts.

Plantations: Tea, coffee, and spice plantations are prevalent in Kerala. Visitors can explore the fragrant spice gardens of Thekkady and learn about the cultivation and processing methods.

Kerala Food and Cuisine:

Seafood: Kerala is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes. Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish), Meen Curry (fish curry), and Prawns Roast are popular delicacies.

Appam and Stew: Appam is a fluffy rice pancake served with a creamy coconut-based stew, often made with vegetables or chicken. It is a traditional breakfast dish in Kerala.

Puttu and Kadala Curry: Puttu is a steamed rice cake made from rice flour and coconut, often served with Kadala Curry (black chickpea curry). It is a popular breakfast combination.

Malabar Biriyani: Malabar-style biriyani is a flavorful rice dish cooked with fragrant spices, meat (chicken, mutton, or fish), and garnished with fried onions and cashews.

Payasam: Payasam is a sweet dessert made with milk, rice, and jaggery (or sugar). Palada Payasam, made with rice flakes and milk, is a popular variety in Kerala.

Banana Chips: Kerala is known for its crispy and tasty banana chips, made from thinly sliced raw bananas, deep-fried in coconut oil, and sprinkled with salt.

Please note that travel times mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on traffic conditions and mode of transportation.

Ashtamudi, Kerala

Ashtamudi is a sprawling expanse of water, the second largest and deepest wetland ecosystem in Kerala.

Like an octopus, it is eight-armed (ashtamudi literally means eight locks of hair). Vembanad (which includes Kumarakom) is larger and much promoted by Kerala Tourism, but lesser known Ashtamudi has much to offer. All the canals and creeks of these backwaters converge at Neendakara, a hub of the state’s fishing industry. 

 

 

Along both banks of the lake and its backwater canals, coconut groves and palm trees interspersed with towns and villages are seen. Quilon is an important historic port city located on the right bank of the lake and boat cruises are operated by the Kollam Boat Club from Quilon to Alappuzha providing transport access to many other towns and villages along this route, apart from the luxury “house boats” which also operate in the lake.  

 

The boat journey is an 8 hour trip, winds through lakes, canals and water bound villages, and gives a complete exposure to the beauty of the backwaters of Ashtamudi Lake. Chinese fishing nets, called cheena vala in the Malayalam language, are used by local fisherman and are a common sight along the waterway.
 

Kollam, located on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake, was once a prosperous and ancient sea port, trading with the Chinese, Romans, Phoenicians, Portuguese, Dutch and the British. It is said that Marco Polo, the Venetian traveler, visited Kollam and other towns on the west coast.
 

 

 

How to Reach -

By Air: The international airport at Thiruvananthapuram, 71 km away, is the nearest airport. Over 40 national and international flights operate out of Thiruvananthapuram on a daily basis. From the airport taxis are easily available to reach Kollam.
By Rail: Kollam is the nearest rail head. It lies on the Ernakulam-Thiruvananthapuram rail line. The city is connected by rail to Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Mangalore and Hyderabad. Almost all trains stop at the station.
By Bus: Kollam, the nearest city, is connected to other major cities of South India through frequent bus services. Buses ply from all major cities of Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Kochi and Thrissur. Both luxury as well as semi deluxe buses are available.

Idukki Dam

The Idukki Dam, located in Kerala, India, is a 168.91 m (554 ft) tall arch dam. The dam stands between the two mountains - Kuravanmala (839)m and Kurathimala (925)m. It was constructed and is owned by the Kerala State Electricity Board. It supports a 780 MW hydroelectric power station in Moolamattom.

It is built on the Periyar River, in the ravine between the Kuravan and Kurathi Hills in Kerala, India. At 167.68 metres, it is one of the highest arch dams in Asia and third tallest arch dam. It started generating power on 4 October 1975. Technically, the dam type is a concrete double, curvature parabolic, thin arc dam.

This dam was constructed along with two other dams at Cheruthoni and Kulamavu. Together, the three dams have created an artificial lake that is 60 km² in area. The stored water is used to produce electricity at the Moolamattom Power house, which is located inside nearby rocky caves. The Government of Canada aided in the building of the dam with long term loans and grants.

The idea of constructing a dam for power generation was first conceived in 1919. As per history, Shri Kolumban, the head of 'Araya' race during 1922, showed the way to the Malankara Estate Superintendent and his friend Thomas, who were on hunting spree in the forest, the spot of present Arch Dam. He told them of the legend of Kuravan and Kurathi Hills. Mr. Thomas was impressed by the sight of water flow between the mountains and it was his idea that has materialized in the form of Idukki Arch Dam. Sri. W.J.John of Malankara Estate submitted a report to the Government of Travancore in 1932 on the possibility of constructing a dam at Idukki for Power Generation.

In 1947, a preliminary investigation report was prepared and submitted by Sri. P.D. Joseph John, the then Chief Electrical Engineer to the Government of Travancore. It was during 1956 that the Central Water Commission conducted a detailed investigation based on the Government's request. The project report was prepared in 1961 and the Planning Commission accorded sanction for implementing the scheme in 1963 and the preliminary works of the project were started.

The construction of this Dam commenced on 30 April 1969. Storage of water in Idukki reservoir commenced in February, 1973. The inauguration of trial run of the first machine was celebrated on 4 October 1975. Commercial operation of the Power Station was Commissioned on 12 February 1976 by the then Hon. Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi. The Government of Canada aided the Project with long term loans and grants. M/s S.N.C.Inc., Canada, a well-known firm of Consulting Engineers were advising and assisting Project Engineers under the Canadian Aid.

Construction of this Arch Dam and two other dams at Cheruthony and Kulamavu has created an artificial lake of 60 km2 width and the water stored is utilized for production of electricity at the unique Moolamattom Power house, which is located inside the rocky caves.

Features

Idukki Dam is 554 feet tall, constructed between the two mountains - Kuravanmala (839 meters) and Kurathimala (925 meters ). This project is situated in Idukki District and its underground power house is located at Moolamattom which is about 43 km from the dam.

Twice in the past, the shutters had to be opened; during the northeast monsoon (October to December) on both occasions. The first time was in 1981 (when the shutters were repeatedly opened and shut between October 29 and November 13) and the second time was in 1992 (when they were kept open for 12 days from October 12 to 23). On both occasions, the water level in the dam touched the brim only when the storage built up during the southwest monsoon (June to September) was augmented by the inflow received immediately afterwards following heavy downpour early in the northeast monsoon.

Usage 

Power Generation

The Project harnesses a major portion of the power potential of Periyar, the largest river in Kerala, by the creation of a reservoir of 2,000 M.cum (2 Billion Tonnes) capacity, diversion of waters thus impounded through a water conductor system consisting of a power tunnel and two underground pressure shafts to an underground power house situated in Moolamattom. The installed capacity of the Power House is 780MW consisting of 6 Units of Pelton-type turbines with a power generation capacity of 130 MW each. The regulated waters of Periyar falls through a drop of about 669.2 metres (2195 feet) while generating power in the underground power house.

Irrigation

The tail waters flowing to Kudayathurpuzha through tunnel and open channel is diverted for irrigation purposes in the Muvattupuzha Valley.

Tourist destination and attraction

Earlier, there was a blanket ban on public entry in to the dam due to security reasons. Later, it was relaxed opening the dam for public for 10 days during the Onam and the Christmas seasons. The duration has been increased to one month since last year. Cameras and cell phones are not allowed inside the dam area. The entry fee is Rs.10 for adults and Rs.5 for children. The fee for 15-minute boating service for five persons is Rs. 600.

Idukki valley is 121 km away from Kottayam, and is a small hill town surrounded by a spread of beautiful, wooden valleys and meandering streams. Idukki is a well known tourist center in Kerala.

The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha and Udumbanchola taluks of Idukki district, spread over 77 km2 and is about 450 - 748 m above sea level. The Idukki Reservoir formed by three dams - Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamavu - extends to 33 km2. One can find Elephants, bisons, sambars deers, wild dogs, jungle cats, tigers, wild boars etc. and variety of Snakes like Cobra, viper, krait and a number of non poisonous snakes in this Sanctuary. The birds of Idukki are Jungle fowl, myna, laughing thrush, black bulbul, peafowl, woodpecker, kingfisher etc.