In the southwest of India, Kerala blends gentleness and wonder: from the Chinese nets of Fort Kochi, a houseboat gliding in Alappuzha, the perfumed mist of Munnar, the peaceful canals of Kollam, the hospitality of Munroe Island, the rituals of Aranmula, the vibrant capital Thiruvananthapuram and the sunsets of Kozhikode, each stop is a living postcard. Embark on 8 essential experiences in the land of backwaters, tea plantations, and sparkling temples, where lagoons, spices, and smiles come together in the present.
Want India without the noise? Head to Kerala, this lush ribbon in the southwest of the country where you can transition from the colonial alleys of Fort Kochi to the iridescent backwaters of Alappuzha, from the tea mists of Munnar to the spiritual echoes of Thiruvananthapuram. Between a cruise on a houseboat, sunset in Kozhikode, the majestic lake of Ashtamudi, the peaceful islets of Munroe Island, and the fervor of Aranmula, here are 8 essential experiences for a smooth journey — with, on top of that, practical tips, inspiration, and some good deals (including a discount on travel insurance).
Fort Kochi, curtain-raiser for Kerala
At dawn, rush to the port of Fort Kochi to watch the fishermen operate their traditional nets, a morning choreography as poetic as it is ancestral. The city, a crossroads of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, unfolds its baroque churches, synagogue, and ancient palaces down to the first canals of the backwaters. It is the ideal gateway to acclimate to the hushed rhythm of Kerala.
Useful Information
The main airport is in Kochi, well connected; Trivandrum airport is another practical option. Before planning your Indian itinerary, nibble on ideas from this overview of the wonders of India — and for smart travel, also take a look at the destinations to avoid in 2025.
Alappuzha, capital of the backwaters
In Alappuzha (Allepey), we swap the bus for the dugout canoe. Canals winding between rice fields and lagoons, temples draped in flowers, the aroma of fried bananas… Rent a houseboat and let yourself be lulled day and night: the “backwater city” is straight on track to the pantheon of contemplative experiences.
Insider Tip
Prefer a vessel with a top deck to admire the ballet of herons at sunset. And if the shores call to you, spot other preserved sandy corners thanks to this guide to hidden beaches in Asia.
Thiruvananthapuram, capital with buried treasures
Also known as Trivandrum, the capital stretches between beaches and coconut trees, just steps away from exuberant nature. Its jewel? The Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple, famous for the sealed chambers that house one of the most fabulous treasures ever recorded. Culture, spirituality, and art of living blend here with a distinctly Keralite elegance.
Zen Pause
Want to nourish the soul as well as the sight? Draw inspiration from these meditation retreats in India to punctuate your itinerary with an inward pause.
Munnar, tea at the summit
At 1,600 m altitude, Munnar unfolds a patchwork of tea plantations edged in mist. Between meticulous harvests, the tea museum, and the local bus climbing to Top Station, the panoramas follow one another like paintings. Here, the air is cooler, time slows down, and the tea is downright delicious.
For Landscape Lovers
These hills rival the most beautiful pastoral paintings on the planet: proof here with this overview of the most magnificent fields in the world.
Kollam, the gate to Lake Ashtamudi
Head down to Kollam and its shaded banks: the Ashtamudi lake — 16 km of shimmering tranquility — beckons you. Set off for a cruise among small islands and mangroves, chat with your boatman, and ask for the route of the canals that wind towards Munroe Island. Kerala postcard-style, in XXL version.
The Right Tempo
Morning or late afternoon: the light turns golden, the palms reflect, and the photos are irresistible. On the water, keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers — the official sprinters of the backwaters.
Munroe Island, slow life in a homestay
On Munroe Island, life follows the rhythm of the water. The boat is the only “bus,” the villages resonate with Hindu temples and local festivals, and hospitality in homestays is what the area is renowned for. Between coconut groves, intimate canals, and hammock naps, calm becomes a way of life.
Experiences to Include in the Program
Morning canoe ride at dawn, cooking class with your host, visiting an artisan workshop: the authenticity made in Kerala.
Aranmula, fervor and snake boats
A pilgrimage site famous for its sacred mirrors, Aranmula reveals its soul during the Onam festival (late August – early September). Ten days of celebrations, music, and the highlight of the show, the spectacular snake boat race. Guaranteed vibrations, emotions galore.
Timely Advice
Book early during Onam: accommodations and transport fill up quickly. Outside of the festivities, the town remains peaceful and deeply spiritual.
Kozhikode, between history and sunsets
Former capital of the powerful Zamorins, Kozhikode (Calicut) brings together temples, mosques, and colonial heritage in a colorful patchwork. Every evening, the beach becomes a stage for a spectacular sunset over the Arabian Sea. Iodine ambiance, spicy snacks, and the sweetness of Malabar living.
Want to Extend the Beach Interlude?
To vary the pleasures, draw inspiration from these hidden beach treasures in Asia and find your ideal sandy spot.
Practical Tips for Orchestrating These 8 Experiences
– Best time: from December to March, dry climate and pleasant temperatures, away from the hottest heat and the monsoon.
– Local language: Malayalam, but English is understood in tourist areas.
– Getting around: local buses, coastal trains, and of course boats in the backwaters (1,500 km of canals!).
– Smooth logistics: if you prefer to delegate, a local agency like Nomadays in India can build a tailored itinerary focused on encounters and authentic experiences.
– Insurance: travel insurance is strongly recommended in India, as healthcare can be limited or costly. We negotiated -5% with Heymondo for a worry-free travel experience (remember to subscribe before departure).
– Budget: to refine your spending, compare the cost of living between Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi; the levels are quite close, with great street food finds at low prices.
– Inspiration and vigilance: expand your watch with this overview of Indian wonders and regularly check the list of destinations to avoid in 2025 to travel informed.
