Kerala Tour: A Quick & Handy Guide

Verdant sea sides, green shores, indolent backwaters, deluxe tea plantations and the aroma of freshly picked spices sailing through the air, Kerala happens to be a splinter of tropical utopia that lures tourists from all across the globe. Whether you wish to stroll the bustling streets of Kochi, which is a crucible of Indian & colonial traditions, sip tea leisurely in Munnar, which is the most popular hill town here, or simply promenade along the beautiful palm-bordered beaches of Kovalam to enjoy savouring seafood, Kerala tour has something to offer to every tourist here.

Do Not Go Back from Here before You SEE!

• Kochi: A great centre for Indian spice trade, the port city of Kochi (Cochin) is a unique blend of old & new. Wander the winding streets of historic Jewish colony of Kochi, lined with vibrantly painted houses. Visit Mattancherry Synagogue, which is one of the oldest surviving synagogues in the British Commonwealth. 
• Munnar: The rocking hills of Munnar are home to some of the largest tea gardens in Southern part of our country. Take a break from the more famous beaches here to visit the Tea Museum, that’s 1.5 km from the city, or relax with a cuppa of fresh tea in a tranquil tea estate. Munnar is the wonderful honeymoon destination, offering stunning geography & splendid scenery.
• Alleppey: Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is home to Kerala’s famous backwaters, formerly a small fishing village but now one of India’s most talked-about tourist destinations. Life in Alleppey, precariously balanced on a complex network of inland canals & backwaters, can be a little laid-back, but it’s best explored on a kettuvallam (houseboat) ride or a peaceful stroll along Alleppey Beach.
• Kovalam: Kerala’s most famous beach town, Kovalam, is perhaps a little touristy. Families come here from Kochi on weekends. Small children are seen running to the water’s edge with ice creams in hand. Umbrella bearers’ wave at every corner! However, the place hasn’t lost any of its magic. Walk to the lighthouse on the headland or watch the sunset from a beach restaurant. 

Don’t Go Back from Here before You DO!

• Take a Houseboat Ride in Alleppey: No trip to this state is complete without a leisurely ride on a kettuvallam winding through the backwaters of Alleppey. These houseboats were initially used to shuttle rice & spices to the port. They are now available for hiring as luxury passenger vessels.
• Periyar River Cruise: One of the most majorly visited wildlife sanctuaries here happen to be the jungles of Periyar, which are home to langurs, sambar deer, bison, & tigers. Spot the wildlife on a 1.5-hour cruise organised by the forest department and the KTDC (Kerala-Tourism-Development-Corporation).
• Watch a Performance at Kochi’s Kathakali Centre. Kathakali is a primal form of storytelling through dance that begun in this state in the seventeenth century. Experience the atmosphere of the past with thrilling dance performances at the Kathakali Centre. There is something for the adventurous souls as well here. The Centre holds Kalaripayattu performances, which is a quite old form of martial arts.

Do Not Go Back from Here before You EAT!

• Appams & Stews: Appams are light, fluffy rice pancakes that are crispy on the edges & juicy in the middle. They are best served with aromatic stews made with veggies and/or meat.
• Malabar Porotta: Light, crispy Malabar parathas happen to be one of the signature delicacies here. 
• Shrimp Moilee: Kerala is best expressed with its seafood dishes! Everything, from karimeen to lobster, is truly delectable here. However, you can’t leave this state without trying moilee, which is a curry made with coconut & kokum. Kokum is a local fruit that adds a sour flavour to the curry.

While you are on your Kerala tour, exploring the great state, stay at Devi Royal. Which happens to be a cozy residency in the lap of nature!