Kumarakom - The Land of Backwaters
People usually say ‘Kerala’ and ‘Backwaters’ in one breath. Kumarakom is one of the most visited backwater destinations. The verdant backwaters comprise a confusing maze of inland waterways flanked by the famous verdant greenery, yes, but also a lifestyle that remains hidden. Traditional kettu vallam boats glide through, making you see these glorious sights. The backwaters are the lifeblood of God’s own country, its veins that give Kerala its character. Perched like an island on the Vembanad Lake, visit Kumarakom for the Bird Sanctuary that has migrant birds flying from as far as Siberia. Lush tropical waterways abound here, as does verdant backwater wilderness.
Must Visit Places: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary - Lush, with migrant birds flying in from far away land
Nearby Getaways from Kumarakom: Alleppey. 130 kms. Scenic town of beautiful backwaters, lagoons fringed by dense coconut trees and stunning beaches.
Thekkady - The home of Mighty Elephants
Watch wildlife at close quarters in Thekkady. The picturesque Periyar wildlife sanctuary abounds with verdant backwoods, aromatic spice plantations and rolling coffee slopes. The landscape is peppered with hills and offers beautiful treks. Tigers, elephants, deer, Asiatic wild elephants and the distinctive Nilgiri langur are found here. Other animals include the wild boar, wild dog, bison, bear and leopards. The park is great for birdwatchers too, with the likes of herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers and the great Malabar grey hornbill swooping through the landscape.
Must Visit Place: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearby Getaways from Thekkady: Idukki. 60 kms. Picturesque district famous for its spices. Lush hills, verdant valleys and tea plantations.
Munnar - The Mystic land of tea plantations
Cool climes and mist shrouded tea plantations are the real attractions of Munnar. It was also the summer getaway of the British. When in Munnar, luxuriate in the great weather and explore the Eravikulam National Park to spot tahrs, an endangered species of goat, as well as sambar and langur. Enchanting tropical greenery of the Cardamom mountains and sight of the Ana Mudi, the highest peak of the Niligiris, rising above it all makes Munnar a perfect weekend getaway.
Must Visit Places: Eravikulam National Park, Tea gardens, Christs’ Church
Nearby Getaways from Munnar: Mattupetty Lake. 13 kms. Manmade lake surrounded by charming hills and woods.
Cochin - the historic land of Portueguese
For a weekend retreat, Cochin packs a laidback punch. Explore this dainty town of tiled bungalows and antiques warehouses. The city, founded in 1341 is divided into three distinct districts – the modern Ernakulam and the atmospheric Fort Cochin and Mattancherry, which form prime attractions. The quaint, cobbled streets here lead to spice bazaars, ancient mansions and charming Chinese fish nets. The architecture has traces of Portuguese, Dutch, Jewish and British. Enjoy spicy Malayali food, catch the razzle dazzle of a Kathakali performance and end your trip with a magnificent sunset cruise.
Must Visit Places: Fort Cochin, Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishnets
Nearby Getaway from Cochin: Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. Over 250 species of birds. Natural haven.
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