backwaters

kollam & alapuzha

Around 150 kms from Cochin, Kollam is a historic town on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake dating back to the 9th century AD. The 8 hour boat trip between Kollam and Alapuzha is the longest and most captivating experience of Kerala's backwaters. Alapuzha is famous for its boat races, beaches, marine products and coir industry. Kuttanad, in Alapuzha, is unique as it is probably the only region in the world where farming is done below sea-level.

kumarakom
Situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, this backwater destination is around 12 kms from Kottayam. House-boats and backwater cruises are the major activities here. The renowned Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an all-time favourite of migratory birds from across the world. The KTDC Resort, the Coconut Lagoon and the Taj Garden Retreat are the resorts on offer.

beaches

kovalam
14 kms from Trivandrum, this internationally renowned beach resort is probably the most important tourist destination in Kerala. Kovalam comprises of three adjacent beaches, the southernmost Lighthouse Beach being the most popular. Kovalam offers lodging to suit all budgets. Ayurvedic health programmes are also offered by various health centres and resorts.

varkala
Known for its mineral springs and rocky cliffs, the Papanasam beach in Varkala is a tranquil, secluded stretch of sand. The 2000 year old Janardhana Swamy temple and the Nature Care Centre are the main attractions. Varkala is around 40 kms from Trivandrum.

kappad
About half an hour from Kozhikode (Calicut), this is where Vasco Da Gama alighted in 1498 AD. Kappad is well known for its Ayurvedic programmes and holiday facilities. The Kappad Beach Resort nearby offers good air-conditioned rooms.

bekal
The Bekal Fort stands on a cliff between two beautiful, palm-fringed beaches, the Kappil beach and the Pallikere beach. Built in the 17th century, the fort is of great historical importance. The sea-bastion, underground tunnels and the surveillance  tower are prominent sights. Other attractions in Bekal are the Chandragiri Fort, Kodi Cliffs and the Bekal Aqua Park.

waterfalls

athirapally & vazhachal
A 90 minute drive from Thrissur (Trichur), these two falls are popular picnic spots. Athirapally falls, which is at the entrance of the Sholayar Ranges, is almost 80 feet. Around 5 kms from Athirapally, Vazhachal falls is close to dense green forest land, and is a part of the Chalakudy River.

about cochin |planning a trip |accommodation |places to see |restaurants |shopping |moving around |useful info |

Disclaimer: All efforts have been made to make the information as accurate as possible. No responsibility shall be owned by the author for the authenticity of the same or for any decision taken based on the information given.

designed & maintained by NR