Kerala Backpacking

Overview

About Kerala Backpacking Trip

Kerala, also known as the Jewel of India and God’s Own Country is one of the most remarkable states in India. Bestowed with rich and diverse culture. Kerala is a destination so alluring and magical, which every traveler would want to explore without any second thoughts. This haven is situated in the southern corner of India bordered by Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and the Arabian Sea along with numerous breathtaking attractions.

Known for its lush landscapes Kerala attributes the Western Ghats, tropical forests, backwaters and beaches. God’s Own Country as its popularly known Kerala experiences the first spell of rain in India. Whereas, rainfall in the rest of the nation occurs in July, Kerala observes it around the first week of June followed by Mumbai and Delhi.

Furthermore, Kerala is known as the most literate state in India with the literacy rate of 93.91%, while the whole country’s literacy rate stands at a mere 74.01%. Kerala also consumes more than 20% of the country's gold as you can see brides to be in Kerala submerged in gold from head to toe. Additionally, the most celebrated religion in the country is Hinduism, hence more than 1,60,650 Temples are present in India, out of these, the richest Hindu temple in the world is located in Kerala. Padmanabhaswamy Temple is the richest temple regarding gold and stones.

Kerala is not only rich in wildlife but also has diversity in culture and festivals like Onam and Vishu, are the most celebrated. From traditional arts such as Kathakali and Theyyam to predominately found coconut and spices, Kerala is acknowledged for all.

Best Places to Visit in Kerala Backpacking

• Kochi (Cochin)- Kochi is a vibrant port city with a rich blend of cultures and history. The lively streets of Fort Kochi, the iconic chinese fishing nets, the ancient Mattancherry Palace, and the historic jewish synagogue reflect the city’s colonial past and multicultural fabric. Kochi’s buzzing markets and vibrant art scenes further enhance its appeal as a must visit Urban Destination.
• Munnar- Nestled in the western ghats mountain range, Munnar is a hill station known for its rolling Tea Gardens, misty mountains, and cool climate. Heaven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike, Munnar offers attractions like the Eravikulam National Park, home to the Endangered Nilgiri Tahr, the Towering Anamudi Peak, and the Informative Tea Museum, which delves into the region’s colonial tea history. Munnar is also known for a rare plant called Neelakurinji, which flowers only once in twelve years.
• Thekkady- Thekkady is a home to the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Travelers can explore the lush forests, embark on bamboo rafting adventures and witness diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers and various bird species. A must visit place for visitors and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Alleppey- Often called the ‘Venice of the East’, Alleppey is famous for its picturesque backwaters and houseboat cruises. Visitors can enjoy the serene waters of Vembanad Lake, the golden sands of Alappuzha Beach, and the thrilling Nehru Trophy boat race, which showcases the state's rich tradition of boat racing. The town's tranquil canals and lush paddy fields make it a must-visit destination in Kerala.
• Varkala- A coastal paradise in Kerala, Varkala's towering red laterite cliffs loom over the Arabian Sea. Fringed by swaying coconut palms, its beaches offer breathtaking sunsets and rejuvenating ayurvedic retreats. A blend of nature's magnificence and Hindu philosophy, Varkala captivates souls seeking tranquility.
• Munroe Island- A forgotten speck in the vast Indian Ocean, Munroe Island is a secret paradise of swaying palms and alabaster shores. As the turquoise waves gently lap the sugar-white sands, life moves at a blissfully unhurried pace in this tropical utopia. With no cars, no crowds, just miles of pristine beach to call your own, it's the perfect escape from the frenzy of the modern world.
• Trivandrum- India's southernmost city beckons with a rich tapestry of ancient temples, swaying coconut groves, and blazing red sunsets over the Arabian Sea. In Trivandrum's winding lanes, the scent of jasmine and curry lingers, while regal mansions adorned with intricate wood carvings whisper tales of a bygone era. This laid-back Kerala capital charms all who wander its enticing shores.
• Kovalam- Kovalam is a small coastal town in Kerala, known for its crescent-shaped beaches, rocky promontories, and palm-fringed shoreline. With its tranquil environment, Kovalam is a popular destination for beach holidays and rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments.
• Wayanad- Wayanad is a rural district in Kerala, renowned for its scenic beauty, with lush green hills, valleys, and pristine forests. It is a popular destination for trekking, camping, and exploring the region's rich biodiversity and ancient caves.
• Kumarakom- Kumarakom is a serene backwater destination in Kerala, known for its beautiful lagoons, canals, and floating houseboats. It is a popular spot for unwinding amidst lush greenery, enjoying boat cruises, and experiencing the unique Kerala way of life.

Things to do in Kerala Backpacking Trip

• Cruise the serene Backwaters on a Kettuvallam Houseboat- Drift along palm-fringed lakes and canals aboard a traditional thatched-roof boat, watching village life unfold on the banks.
• Spot Exotic Birds at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary- This ornithologist's paradise hosts brilliant kingfishers, cormorants, herons and more amid the scenic riverside mangroves and paddy fields.
• Go Jeep Safari & Trekking in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to see elephants and tigers- Hike through Periyar's dense evergreen forest in hopes of spotting herds of elephants, elusive tigers, sambar deer and more.
• Hike through the lush Tea Plantations of Munnar- Explore the undulating green hills and valleys carpeted with immaculately groomed tea estates in this former British hill station.
• Relax on Alleppey's beautiful Beaches- Unwind on Alleppey's golden sands, take an ayurvedic massage or refreshing yogic retreat before watching a mesmerizing sunset.
• Indulge in an Ayurvedic Massage and Yoga Retreat- Rejuvenate mind and body through Kerala's ancient healing systems of ayurvedic therapies and yoga at renowned wellness resorts.
• Coffee Plantation tour in Wayanad- Experience the aroma of freshly brewed coffee on a plantation tour in Wayanad, where you can witness the entire process from cultivation to cup. Stroll through the verdant estates, learn about the different varieties of coffee, and observe the traditional methods of harvesting and processing. Cap off the tour with a tasting session, savoring the rich flavors of Wayanad's premium coffee blends.
• Spice Tours in Thekkady- Embark on a fascinating journey through the fragrant spice plantations of Thekkady, nestled in the heart of Kerala's Western Ghats. Explore lush estates adorned with cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, and other exotic spices that have made Kerala the "Spice Garden of India." Learn about the cultivation methods, witness the processing techniques, and indulge in a sensory experience of aroma and flavors that will tantalize your senses.
• Snake Boat Race in Alleppey- The Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alleppey is a grand spectacle where majestic snake boats, measuring over 100 feet long, race through the serene backwaters. Hundreds of rowers, synchronized in perfect harmony, propel these intricately carved boats to the rhythmic chants of traditional boat songs. This vibrant annual event celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and attracts thousands of enthusiastic spectators from around the world.

How to Reach Kerala

• By Air: Cochin International Airport in Kochi is the major airport in Kerala with direct flights from major Indian cities as well as international destinations. Trivandrum International Airport is another major airport with good connectivity.
• By Rail: Kerala has a good rail network connecting it to the rest of India. Major stations are in cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, Kollam, Thrissur etc. Popular train routes include the Rajdhani/Sampark Kranti Express from Delhi and the Interstate Express from Mumbai.
• By Road: Kerala has an excellent system of national highways connecting it to neighboring states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Major road entry points are from Coimbatore/Salem/Madurai in Tamil Nadu and Bangalore in Karnataka. Government and private bus services as well as taxis are options.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

• Winter Season (Peak/High Season):

  November to February- These cool, dry months offer the best weather for exploring Kerala. The weather is mild and pleasant with lower humidity levels making it an ideal time for visiting Kerala backwaters, beaches, hill stations and other top attractions.

• Summer Season:

  March to May- Temperatures rise making it hot and humid, these months are not recommended to visit Kerala, as the weather in days are extremely hot and in the evenings also, temperature remains around 29 degree celsius. Not an ideal time to visit.

• Monsoon Season:

  June to September- The heavy southwest monsoon leads to incessant rains across Kerala during these months. Tourism is minimal, with many facilities closed. However, the countryside is lush green.

• Post-Monsoon Season:

  October- A transitional period after the monsoons, with chances of intermittent showers. An off-season time with fewer tourists and lower prices.

Things To Pack