• Home
  • /
  • Lifestyle
  • /
  • Kerala’s Hidden Gems: Essential Places To Include In Your Itinerary
Kerala

Kerala’s Hidden Gems: Essential Places To Include In Your Itinerary

Discover the lesser-known treasures of Kerala by venturing beyond the tourist trail. Marari Beach, cocooned in tranquility, offers an authentic coastal experience with its traditional fishing villages and Ayurvedic wellness. Vagamon, nestled in the Western Ghats, enchants with mist-covered hills and meandering trails, providing an offbeat escape for nature enthusiasts. Poovar Island, a secluded paradise where backwaters and beaches converge, offers a serene retreat accessible only by boat. Kumarakom, nestled on the shores of Vembanad Lake, unveils a more secluded and authentic backwater experience, while Idukki showcases Kerala’s diverse landscapes with majestic mountains and lush valleys. Kannur, in the north, immerses you in cultural richness with ancient forts and traditional Theyyam performances. Ponmudi, a hill station hidden from the crowds, captivates with winding trails and misty landscapes, providing a serene mountain retreat. Finally, Thrissur, the cultural capital, resonates with festive fervor, grand temples, and vibrant markets, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Including these hidden gems in your itinerary ensures an immersive and diverse exploration of Kerala’s unparalleled beauty and cultural tapestry. Explore the enchanting beauty of Alleppey with our exclusive Alleppey Tour packages.

Marari Beach: Serenity Unveiled

Tucked away from the bustling tourist hubs, Marari Beach emerges as a hidden gem along Kerala’s coastline. This pristine stretch of golden sand, fringed by swaying palms, offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking tranquility. Marari’s charm lies in its simplicity – traditional fishing villages, untouched natural beauty, and a slower pace of life. Indulge in Ayurvedic wellness on the beach, witness the vibrant hues of local fishing boats, and savor freshly caught seafood. Marari Beach is an essential addition to your Kerala itinerary for an authentic coastal experience away from the tourist crowds. Explore the best Kerala trip package for an unforgettable travel experience.

Vagamon: Hills Alive With Mystique

Escape to the enchanting hills of Vagamon, a lesser-known gem nestled in the Western Ghats. This offbeat destination captivates with its lush meadows, pine-covered valleys, and a cool, misty ambiance. Vagamon’s allure lies in its untouched landscapes, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Explore the meandering trails that lead to hidden waterfalls, embark on paragliding adventures for panoramic views, and embrace the tranquility of Vagamon’s tea gardens. A visit to Vagamon unveils a side of Kerala’s highlands that goes beyond the popular hill stations, providing a serene and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Poovar Island: Backwater Bliss And Beach Beauty

Nestled at the southern tip of Kerala, Poovar Island presents a harmonious blend of backwater serenity and coastal allure. Accessible only by boat, this secluded paradise is surrounded by the Neyyar River, Arabian Sea, and the serene Poovar Lake. Traverse through narrow canals lined with coconut palms, witness vibrant birdlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the estuary where river, lake, and sea converge. Poovar’s golden sand beach adds a coastal charm, completing the experience. Including Poovar Island in your itinerary unveils a hidden haven where backwaters and beaches coexist in perfect harmony.

Kumarakom: A Symphony of Backwater Beauty

While backwaters are a quintessential Kerala experience, Kumarakom offers a distinct and serene interpretation of this natural wonder. Tucked on the shores of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a network of canals, lagoons, and islands, exuding tranquility and natural beauty. Explore the bird-filled Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, navigate the intricate backwater channels on traditional houseboats, and relish the peaceful ambiance of the lake. The lesser-explored side of Kumarakom reveals an intimate connection with nature, making it an essential stop for those seeking a more secluded and authentic backwater experience.

Idukki: Nature’s Grand Canvas

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature in Idukki, a district that boasts diverse landscapes, from majestic mountains to lush valleys. Home to the iconic Idukki Arch Dam, this region offers a visual feast for nature lovers. Explore the sprawling Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, trek through the rugged Western Ghats, and marvel at the panoramic views from Ramakkalmedu. Idukki is a hidden gem that showcases Kerala’s untouched beauty, making it an essential inclusion in your itinerary for a rendezvous with the awe-inspiring landscapes that define the state.

Kannur: Cultural Kaleidoscope

Kannur

Venture to the northern realms of Kerala and discover the cultural kaleidoscope of Kannur. This offbeat destination is steeped in history, with ancient forts, traditional Theyyam performances, and a vibrant handloom industry. Stroll through the historic Fort St. Angelo, witness the mesmerizing rituals of Theyyam, and explore the age-old art of handloom weaving in Kannur’s quaint villages. The region’s cultural richness, combined with its pristine beaches, offers a unique and less-explored facet of Kerala. Adding Kannur to your itinerary ensures an immersive experience into the cultural tapestry that has shaped the northern landscapes of the state.

Ponmudi: Hill Station Haven

For a hill station experience away from the crowds, Ponmudi unfolds as a hidden haven in the Western Ghats. This lesser-known gem is characterized by winding trails, misty landscapes, and a serene atmosphere. Trek through the tea estates, enjoy panoramic views from the viewpoints, and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. Ponmudi’s charm lies in its unspoiled allure, providing a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat. Including Ponmudi in your Kerala itinerary offers a refreshing break from the more frequented hill stations, allowing you to explore nature in its pristine state.

Thrissur: Festive Fervor And Cultural Elegance

Known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is a city that pulsates with festive fervor and artistic elegance. Home to the grand Thrissur Pooram festival, this city showcases the rich cultural heritage of the state. Explore the majestic Vadakkunnathan Temple, witness traditional Kathakali performances, and stroll through the colorful markets of Thrissur. The city’s vibrant atmosphere, coupled with its historical significance, makes it an essential stop for those eager to delve into Kerala’s cultural vibrancy. Thrissur unveils a side of the state where every street resonates with the beats of traditional music and the hues of festive celebrations.

Hue Douglas is the Chief Editor of Zumboly and a former Journalist. With a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Seattle University, he writes mainly about technology, health, and business fields since he finds them engaging and fulfilling. Through writing many articles and gaining experience, he has evolved into a storyteller who shares his knowledge through these articles.