Before visiting Kerala, I had no idea what to expect from India. I heard a few great things about the place from friends, saw some photos of green scenery, and heard some stories about the hospitality of the locals. But those were just random moments from someone else’s story.
What I saw in Kerala was far beyond what I expected. This south region of India surprised me with many diverse options to spend your days exploring the area. From thrilling adventures, through natural activities, to relaxing moments… Here are some of my most memorable experiences in Kerala from south to north.
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1. Lakes and Lagoons houseboat cruise in Alleppey
Alleppey is also known as Alappuzha is a city located in the southern part of Kerala. A network of canals and lagoons are passing through the area, making it one of the best places for backwater cruises. Which is one of the first things we did in Kerala.
Spending a night on a boat in the backwaters of Alleppey is probably the best introduction to the greenery of the area.
Our boathouse was equipped with 3 bedrooms, a kitchen, a dining area and a relax area on the top of the boat. The food that was waiting for us on the boat was super tasty thanks to the Lakes and Lagoons team. We were able to ride along the backwaters for a full afternoon and caught a pretty amazing sunset too.
The view from the houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Kerala
Lakes and Lagoons houseboat
A sunset over the backwaters of Alleppey, Kerala, India
2. A ride among the tea plantations in Munnar
Munnar is another city in Kerala where you can have an amazing time exploring the area. It is mostly popular for its production of tea, which is why the next unique activities I’m listing below are tea-oriented.
A trip to Kerala would not be complete if you don’t pay a visit to the tea plantations in Munnar. Riding along the endless fields of lush greenery is one of the best experiences to remember from your visit to Kerala.
The tea is probably the most widely drunk beverage in the area. The history of tea in Munnar dates back from the 19th century and continues to fascinate Kerala visitors. If you happen to also meet the tea pickers during their work, you’ll be able to see how hard that work actually is.
The tea plantations in Munnar
Tea pickers in Munnar’s tea plantations
Picking tea leaves in Munnar’s tea plantations
3. A visit to Lockhart tea factory in Munnar
If you want to see how the tea comes to your glass, pay a visit to the 100-years old tea Lockhart tea factory in Munnar. You will be able to witness the tea making process from picking to export.
An interesting fact about tea picking is that the different types of tea – black, green and white, are sourced from the same type of tea plant. The tea produced in the factory is transported to different parts of the world.
4. Bamboo Rafting in Wayanad
When you hear India, adventure trips are probably not the first thing that comes to your mind. At least that was the case for me. But a day in Wayanad district in southwest Kerala proved me wrong. A short hike among tea plantations, rappelling for the first time, and then bamboo rafting in the backwaters, made our day amazing. We went rafting with Muddy Boots who offer many activities in this part of India.
5. Kayaking in Kannur
Water activities seem to be a thing in Kerala. During our trip, we also went kayaking around Dharmadam island in Kannur district. We saw typical Mangrove trees and thousands of huge bats flying around. Definitely worth the trip.
Are you ready for your adventure in Kerala, India?
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