Discover Kerala: Explore beyond Kochi and Munnar
Spanning the length of India’s flourishing Malabar Coast, the state of Kerala has it all – rich culture and heritage, friendly people, delicious cuisine, luxurious houseboats, endless coffee and spice plantations. So how is it that every time you hear someone visiting Kerala, only places like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Munnar and Alappuza appear in their itinerary?
These are undoubtedly beautiful tourist destinations, but Kerala has so much more to offer if you dig deeper! So the next time you’re planning a trip to “God’s Own Country” here are 3 off-beat destinations to keep an eye out for:
Wayanad
A small, low-lying village in the south of Kerala, Wayanad is particularly well-known and visited for the famous Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. While the sanctuary is amongst one of the best in South India and features Asiatic elephants, tigers, and leopards, it is the Ambukuthi Hills, Edakkal Caves and Kalpetta that one should keep an eye out for when in Wayanad. Also make sure to visit Chembra, the tallest peak in Wayanad. While Chethalayam Falls is a great spot for bird-watching, for those who fancy a trek, there’s plenty of opportunity as well.
But the best secret of Wayanad are its tribals! On your trip, you can meet a tribal medicine man, a tribal soothsayer, a tribal doctor and buy the purest honey harvested in these parts! Their connection to the forest, their connection to nature and their simplicity and honesty will leave you wanting more!
Vagamon
A quiet hill station located in Kerala, it is mostly known for its lush hillsides and peaceful roads. Best referred to as Vagamon Hill Station, this destination should be on your list if you’re looking for a place to truly take a break from your daily schedule! Vagamon is also home to some of the most unique finds down South – pine forests, waterfalls, rose gardens, tea estates, rivers and spice plantations. For the ones who love a bit of adventure in their travel, Vagamon also offers paragliding, trekking and rock-climbing to challenge the inner explorer in you! Make sure to also check out the temple of Murugan Swami, carved from a single rock and Thangal Hill that features the remains of the 12th century Sufi Saint, Sheikh Fariduddin.
Gavi
Located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, Gavi is enchanting, unique and simply stunning! Perfect for a quiet holiday with your partner or a bunch of friends, this town is home to some of Kerala’s most beautiful natural offerings and definitely deserves a visit. To feel the tranquillity of South India, visit Gavi where wildlife, greenery and nature are in abundance! Check out ‘Green Mansion’, an eco-friendly resort in Gavi for your stay. While at Gavi, also make sure to visit the famous Periyar National Park, its waterfalls and lakes, Sabarimala View Point and the Gavi Dam.
While exploring these off-beat destinations, don’t forget to connect with the locals and get a deeper insight into experiencing the ‘hidden gems’ of Kerala! No trip is complete without a few surprises and rest assured, these three destinations have plenty in store for you.
To experience ‘offbeat’ Kerala, all you have to do is write to us – info@easeindiatravel.com or whatsapp/call 9371234074!
Chandrika November 26, 2018
