The perfect destination for a holiday in Kerala

Popularly said to be crafted by the hands of the Gods, Kerala is also known as ‘God’s Own Country’ and is one of the most scenic places in the world. Its wealth of natural beauty makes it a popular holiday destination, both locally and internationally. Along with the numerous sunny, palm-lined beaches, Kerala also offers the nature-loving holiday-maker numerous other attractions. You could enjoy the scenic backwaters, participate in numerous water sporting activities, visit the wildlife sanctuaries and roaring waterfalls, and go trekking in the verdant forests or just cool-off in the scenic hill stations with their immaculately-manicured tea gardens and spice plantations.

A quick weekend just won’t do if you really want to enjoy the full essence of Kerala. Here are some of the best holiday destinations:

KOVALAM

It’s among the best beaches in India and famous for its New Year celebrations, ayurvedic massages and water sporting activities. The crescent-shaped coastline boasts of numerous spectacular beaches. A stay at the The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel, in Trivandrum, would complete this mesmerizing experience.

KOLLAM

Enjoy an exciting cruise through the backwaters from the Ashtamudi Lake dotted with numerous mysterious-looking islands just waiting to be explored. A traditional boathouse cruise through the backwaters takes you through narrow canals, lagoons and mangrove forests offering you glimpses of the rural landscape, paddy fields and coconut plantations. Book at The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel, perched on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam and enjoy the nearby golden beaches too.

PONMUDI HILLS

For nature enthusiasts, lose yourself in the adventurous hilly tracks of the famous Ponmudi hills in Trivandrum and get mesmerized by the astounding varieties of flora and fauna here.

KUTTANAD

Located around Alappuzha, Kuttanad is known as the rice bowl of Kerala and is the best place to experience rural life with charming villages, backwaters and rolling paddy fields.

POOVAR

Located in Trivandrum district, Poovar is the ultimate tropical paradise with its scenic beaches and estuary dotted with classy resorts. Great for family vacations.

KUMARAKOM

Vembanad Lake located in Kumarakom is one of the most tranquil places to holiday in Kerala with its pleasant weather, exotic flora and fauna, delightfully authentic food, green paddy fields, thick paddy fields and delightful water sporting activities.

VARKALA BEACH

Its one of the best seaside location with towering cliffs on one side and the azure Arabian Sea on the other. It’s famous for its pristine beaches, numerous water sports and magnificent sunsets.

Other places that make great holiday destinations include Kasargod, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Munnar and Bekal.