Going on a ‘long story road trip’ is one thing that is on top of the bucket list for most of the youngsters today. No doubt, a road trip with a group of friends or family is the best way to escape the boredom of everyday life and satisfy your adventurous desires. A ride on the bumpy, twisty, lush and mountainous roads can provide you with an immense state of excitement you are looking for. You also get to discover new places which will definitely satisfy the traveler inside you. Kerala has amazing destinations that you must visit once in a lifetime. Some of which are listed here:-
1) Madikeri – A spectacular gateway to the coffee land
This place is easily accessible to all the most popular destinations of the region. The travelers are so crazy about the beauty of Madikery that many of them make this place a pit stop on the way to Kerala. Experience the natural beauty of this place through plantation walks, camping, trekking, and river rafting.
Best time to visit: July – September
You can also explore: Abbey Falls, Talakaveri, Raja’s Seat, Dubare Elephant Camp.
2) Agasthyarkoodam – Fabulous treks of Kerala
Trekking is possible the most adventurous thing to experience less crowded tourist destinations near Kerala. The view from the top of the Agasthyarkoodam trek is so beautiful that you might want to settle there!
Best time to visit: November – April
You can also explore: shendurney wildlife sanctuary, Sri Krishna swami temple, Meenmutty Falls, Forest Main Gate.
3) Mysuru – The royal heritage of Karnataka
Mysuru is rich in its culture & history and is considered among the best places to see near Kerala, especially for families. While you are on an enriching holiday, there are a lot of unique things to see such as exploring the Mysore Palace, sweet Mysore Pak, shopping for Mysore Silk Sarees etc.
Best time to visit: October till the end of February
You can also explore: Chamundeshwari Temple, Brindavan Gardens, Mysore Zoo.
4) Kodaikanal – The princess of hill stations
Nested in the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal is the best place to visit if you are looking for a mountain holiday to your Kerala itinerary. The pine hills of Kodaikanal serves fantastic locations to indulge in photography! Tourists enjoy the picture square landscapes and fresh mountain air of Kodaikanal.
Best time to visit: October and March
You can also explore: Bryant Park, Pine Forest, Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk.
5) Neeliyar Kottam – Best Theyyam performances
If you want to engulf the spiritual and invigorating experiences of your life, then no other option is as best as visiting Neeliyar Kottam. The clamorous Theyyam performance and the sound of ‘chenda’ drums describe the beauty of Kerala’s art and culture in the best way.
Best time to visit: During the temple festival (around the third week of January)
You can also explore: Vaikom, Elaveezha Poonchira, Marmala Waterfalls.
6) Pollachi – A doorway to the Western Ghats
Pollachi provides a view to the most immaculate hills and forest of the Western Ghats. The water coming from the Annamalai foothills create dams that are amazing to see and provide as great picnic spots.
Best time to visit: December – February
You can also explore: Valparai, Top Slip, Azhiyar Dam, Solaiyar Dam
7) Madurai – A trip to the glorious temples of South India
This ancient city has been ruled by several rulers and all of them have enormously contributed to the city. Among many of the popular attractions, the most remarkable and visited place remains the Madurai Meenakshi temple and is appropriately right for a memorable vacation.
Best time to visit: December – February
You can also explore: Koodal Azhagar Temple, Gandhi Memorial Museum, Alagar Kovil
8) Kappil Beach – Where beaches and backwaters meet
This pristine beach location offers some of the eye-catching sunsets on the Arabian Sea. You will find the ocean on one side and the backwaters dotted with coconut trees on the other side in the Kappil beach. You can either drive down or rent bikes from Varkala to visit Kappil.
Best time to visit: November – February
You can also explore: Janardhana Swamy Temple, Anjengo Fort, Ponnumthuruth Island, Varkala beach.
9) Soochipara Waterfalls – The pristine wonder of nature
Soochipara Waterfalls will make you feel happy your heart out. The entire area is tucked away in a beautiful valley. You can visit this place without having a single thought as this waterfall is a demonstration of a right tourism.
Best time to visit: December – May
You can also explore: kanthampara waterfalls, sentinel rock waterfalls, Shri Maha Vishnu mandir
10) Ashtamudi Lake – The mesmerizing beauty of backwaters
The large lake with eight waterways branching away from it consists of a rich birdlife and is also a protected reserve for birds. You can go on a boat ride on a traditional Kerala boat to experience the lake and let the relaxed vibes take over.
Best time to visit: August – October
You can also explore: Kollam, Varkala, Pathanamthitta, Anapara, Kovalam
