Things to Do in Kerala
THINGS TO DO IN KERALA
Kerala, as the name "God's Own Country" suggests, is a creation of God, Earth and Nature. Kerala is a beautiful and diverse land. Kerala welcomes tourists from all over the world and gives a thousand memories to the tourists to remember for the rest of their lives. Apart from seeing the tourist attractions, there are many opportunities to enjoy and be happy in Kerala. Beautiful views, the diverse traditional cuisine of this country, adventure, Indian medical treatments including Ayurveda, art forms, sports, handicrafts, martial arts training and many other different things can be tried in Kerala.
CHINESE FISHING NETS
The Chinese fishing nets, known as 'Cheenavala', are a part of the rich history and a symbol of Kochi, and are one of the tourist attractions. These are cantilevered structures permanently installed on the shore. Taking a photo against these backdrops at sunset is the dream of any tourist. The visual spectacle is so beautiful. That is why this place is one of the popular places in Kochi. It is operated by more than four fishermen. Fishing is done in the morning and evening. Tourists also get the opportunity to participate in this.
TODDY DRINKS (COCONUT TREE, PALM TREE)
Toddy is a traditional alcoholic drink of Kerala. However, toddy collected early in the morning is not even a trace of alcohol and is known as Madhurakall. When Madhurakall is fermented, it becomes an alcoholic drink. Madhurakall is collected from the flower buds of coconut and palm trees. Toddy is a slightly sweet, fruity and white drink. Toddy plays an important role in Ayurvedic medicines. This drink is also used in small quantities to make 'Appam', one of the favourite dishes of Kerala. Toddy is considered a drink with many benefits when consumed in small quantities. In the past, people used to drink it early in the morning on an empty stomach for its health benefits. The flower buds of trees such as coconut and palm are damaged the day before and the drink that comes out of them is collected in earthen pots and consumed early in the morning. Madhurakall is also taken from the places where it is collected. They can also be purchased and used from government-approved shops, known as 'Kallu Shops'. These are considered one of the must-try things in Kerala.
ATHIRAPALLY WATERFALLS
Athirapally Falls is known as the "Niagara of South India". It is the largest waterfall in Kerala. It is located on the Chalakudy River in Chalakudy, Thrissur district. The sight of water falling from a height of 80 feet is very beautiful and fills the hearts of tourists. You can reach the bottom of the waterfall using steep narrow paths or a path with wide steps. Since slippery paths and rocks are common in the river and its surrounding areas, tourists should be extremely careful and follow the instructions of the authorities. The surrounding forest area is also a habitat for many animal species, including hornbills. 4 species of hornbill birds are found here. With its beautiful green backdrop, waterfalls, and landscape, Athirapally has become a favourite destination for film, music, and video producers and tourists. The famous blockbuster film 'Baahubali' was shot here, and Athirapally and its surrounding areas are also the shooting locations for many other films. Tamil films like Punnagai Mannan, Kannathil Muthamittal, Payya and Kandukonden Kandukonden, Hindi films like Dill Se, Khushi, and Saya have been shot here in many languages. Trekking to the waterfall becomes a feast for the senses and mind. Visiting Athirapally is one of the travel plans that no tourist can avoid. It is believed that those who enter the river without permission from the authorities and in places other than those designated are at risk of being involved in an accident.
COIR & COIR PRODUCTS
Kerala is also famous for its ropes and traditional rope products. Many products related to daily life and beyond are made using rope. They are also exported to foreign countries from Kerala. Rope and rope products are natural fibres extracted from the husk of coconut collected from coconut trees. Many products such as ropes, floor mats, brushes, and rope mattresses are produced from these. These are 100% natural and organic products. These fibres are known for their resistance to sea water. The fibres are extracted from the trunk through various stages and very laborious methods. Coir and coir products are a completely environmentally friendly alternative. In addition to traditional uses, they are used in geotextiles and garden construction. The coir capital of India is Kerala and the Alappuzha (Alleppey) district in Kerala. Men and women are engaged in the production of coir and coir products in the traditional way. Tourists can learn about coir production and participate in their production process. Such experiences are sure to be helpful for the mental enjoyment of tourists and instilling a cooperative spirit.
BACKWATERS & HOUSEBOAT STAY
Kerala is the most visited tourist destination in India. Kerala is also famous for its backwater beauty, boating, houseboat accommodation, and fish. Vembanad Lake, the second largest backwater lake in India, is spread across the districts of Alappuzha (Alleppey), Ernakulam (Cochin), and Kottayam in Kerala. Alappuzha (Alleppey), known as the "Venice of the East" and the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala, is one of the most famous backwater tourist destinations in Kerala. The backwaters of Kerala are home to many flora and fauna due to their natural beauty and traditional fishing methods. The traditional backwater boats, which were used to transport goods through the backwaters, have now been modernized and made suitable for overnight stays by tourists. These can be visited during the day and the beauty of the backwaters can be enjoyed. Enjoy and stop at the backwaters at night and stay overnight in them. All the modern facilities of a hotel or house are equipped in such boats. The taste of the food available in houseboats is very famous. The delicious fish dishes of Kerala, including carp, are prepared and served by the staff of the boats. Boats of various sizes are available here, which are equipped according to the needs of families, groups, honeymoons, and meetings. There are many backwater tourist centres located in Kerala. Alappuzha (Alleppey), Kumarakom, Kuttanad, Ashtamudi, Cochin (Kochi), Kollam, Valiyaparamba, Kavvayi and many other backwater tourist centres are located in Kerala. Backwater tourism and overnight stay in houseboats is an activity that tourists who come to Kerala must definitely include
TRADITIONAL KERALA DISHES
Kerala Sadya is an indispensable and essential dish for Onam, the most important festival of Kerala, as well as for special occasions, celebrations and weddings. It is a traditional vegetarian feast in Kerala. Banana leaves are used to serve the sadya. It is usually served as a midday meal. The traditional way is to arrange the banana leaf on which the food is served in such a way that the tip of the banana leaf on which the food is served is on the left side of the person serving the food. There are certain practices followed in serving the sadya. Boiled rice (choru) is served on the lower half of the banana leaf. Curry is served in rows on the upper part of the leaf. Rice is served after the curries are served, and certain practices are also followed in them.
First, upperi and banana chips are served. Then pickles of ginger, mango and lemon are served. Papadam, kichadi, pachadi, olan, thoran, aviyal and kootu curry are also served. After serving thodu curry and rice, the feast begins with dal curry and a little liquid ghee on top of the rice. The second curry is the famous South Indian dish sambar. In the middle of the feast, payasam palada, parippu and semiyam are served in that order. The tradition is to eat nalippuvan fruit with parippu payasam ada and payasam. Semiyam payasam is eaten with a delicious dish called boli. Then, pulisseri, rasam and moru curry are served with rice. With these, this delicious meal ends.
Choru / rice : Rice is a traditional and popular food of Keratitis. The rice usually prepared for food is brown rice. This rice is red in colour. It is cooked in hot water and then sieved.
Upperi : Banana fruit is made into small pieces and dried in a jaggery solution and cooked.
Vazhakka chips : Banana fruit is cut into rounds and fried in coconut oil.
Achar : A pickle made by marinating ginger, green mango, and lemon in salt and then seasoning it with chili powder.
Aviyal : An indispensable dish in a sadya . It is made by adding various types of finely cut vegetables, a mixture of coconut paste, and green chilies.
Thoran : A dish made by sautéing cabbage and lentils with grated coconut.
Olan : A dish made by cooking pumpkin and broad beans in coconut milk.
Kichdi / Pachadi : A dish made by adding cucumber, mustard, yogurt, grated chillies and curry leaves.
Koottu curry : A dish made by cooking yams, kumbalam, black gram, potato and lentils.
Pappadam : A wafer made from dried dal flour and fried in coconut oil.
Parippu curry : A liquid curry made by adding chickpeas, lentils and coconut.
Sambar : A curry made by adding chillies, coriander leaves, turmeric powder and onion to a stew of various vegetables and cooking it in a liquid form.
Ada Payasam : A sweet, liquid dish made with brown jaggery, ada, coconut milk, cardamom, cashew nuts, raisins, and ghee.
Kadala Payasam : A sweet, liquid dish made with dal, brown jaggery, coconut milk, cardamom, cashew nuts, raisins, and ghee.
Paalada Payasam/Semium Payasam : A sweet, liquid dish made with dal, vermicelli, milk, ghee, cashew nuts, raisins, and cardamom.
Boli : A sweet, soft dessert made with pure flour, dal, sugar, cardamom, and ghee.
Pulisseri : A dish made with ripe pineapple, yogurt, mustard, turmeric powder, green chilies, red chilies, and curry leaves.
Rassam : A dish made with tamarind water, tomatoes, black pepper, green chilies, red chilies, and mustard.
Moru : A dish made with yogurt, green chilies, red chilies, and ginger.
PUTTU & KADALA CURRY
Puttu and Kadala curry are one of the popular breakfast dishes of Keratitis. Puttu is a delicious dish made by grinding rice flour, kneading it with the required amount of water, adding enough coconut flakes, filling it in a cylindrical vessel, and then steaming it. Kadala curry is a delicious curry dish made with chickpeas, coconut paste, and roasted chilies. Steamed bananas are another dish. Steamed lentils and Pappadam are also excellent accompaniments.
BACKWATER KARIMEEN POLLICHATHU (PEARL SPOT FISH)
Karimeen pollichathu is one of the traditional fish dishes prepared using the black-spotted pearl spot fish found in the backwaters of Kerala. It is marinated in a mixture of spices like black pepper, chili, and lemon juice, then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked on low heat. Because it is prepared in this way, it is very tasty and has become a favourite dish of tourists. Karimeen pollichathu is one of the must-try fish dishes in Kerala.
APPAM / PALAPPAM WITH STEW
Appam or palappam is a popular food in Kerala. Appam is made by fermenting a mixture of powdered rice flour, coconut milk, coconut water, sweet jaggery (depending on availability), and sugar. Appam is a dish with crispy edges and a soft centre. It is a stew made with vegetables, coconut milk, cinnamon, onions, and chilies and is eaten as a curry with appam. Although appam is completely vegetarian, chicken curry and mutton curry are also considered a good combination.
PRAWN CURRY (KERALA STYLE)
Traditional Kerala style shrimp curry is very delicious and famous. It is cooked in a very delicious way with shrimp, salt, turmeric powder, chili powder, black pepper powder, coconut milk, garlic, small onion, curry leaves, grated coconut, ginger and turmeric. If you are a seafood lover, shrimp curry is a dish you must try. It is ideal to eat with rice, chapatti, barotta, dosa, etc.
FISH MOLI
Fish Molly is a very delicious fish dish from Kerala. Fish Molly is a fish dish prepared with ingredients like king fish, ginger, onion, garlic, green chili, cardamom, gram, cinnamon, coconut milk, and tomatoes. It is best eaten with palappam and bread. It is sure to awaken your taste buds.
PAZHAM PORI /VAZHAYKKAPPAM (BANANA FRITTERS)
While there are many snacks that are eaten with tea in Kerala, the snack known as Vazhakappam or Pazhampori is delicious, different and loved by everyone. The recipe involves cutting a ripe banana lengthwise, dipping it in a flour mixture and frying it in coconut oil. Don't complete your visit to Kerala without trying these.
THALASSERI BIRIYANI
Biryani is a staple dish in the non-vegetarian cuisine of Kerala. Among them, Thalasseri Biryani is a famous biryani. Thalasseri Biryani is a delicious dish prepared with a special rice called Kaima. Biryani is cooked with spices, chicken, rice, and onions. Biryani is one of the special dishes of the people of Kerala.
IDLI, DOSA & SAMBAR
Idli and dosa are the most delicious and healthy dishes of Kerala. The best curry to eat with them is sambar. Not only is it the most famous dish of Kerala, but people all over India enjoy this dish. They are prepared by fermenting a mixture of milled rice flour. Sambar is a delicious curry made by adding various vegetables like lentils, drumstick, onions, potatoes, green chillies, carrots, pumpkin and tomatoes along with spices like tamarind, turmeric powder and chilli powder.
PAYASSAM (ADA PAYASSAM, KADALA PAYASSAM, PALADA / VERMICELLI)
Payasam is an indispensable sweet dish during festivals and special occasions in Kerala. Although there are many types of payasam, the most important ones are ada payasam, Kadala payasam, palada payasam, and semiyam payasam. Ada and Kadala payassams usually use a mixture of coconut milk, jaggery, cashew nuts, raisins, cardamom, and ghee. Semiyam and palada payasams use palada, vermicelli, cow's milk, cashew nuts, raisins, cardamom, ghee, and sugar. Payasam is a sweet dish prepared in liquid form. Payasam is a dish that tourists should definitely try.
KATHAKALI
Kathakali is the traditional visual art form of Kerala. Kathakali is one of the world-famous art forms of Kerala. Kathakali is an art form performed with the accompaniment of musical instruments. Kathakali is a combination of dance, drama and music. Kathakali artists present their characters through sign language and facial expressions. Instruments such as chenda, maddalam, chengila and ilathalam are used. The costumes of Kathakali artists are very attractive. The main costumes are pacha, Kathy, Kari, thadi and minukku. Kathakali originated from the Ramayana based play. The story is narrated in the form of songs. These songs are known as 'padhangal'. Kathakali is a must-do activity on a visit to Kerala. Facilities for enjoying it are available in Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey.
KALARI (KALARIPAYATTU)
Kalaripayattu is a unique martial art of Kerala. The place where Kalaripayattu is practiced is called Kalaripayattu. It helps in increasing the body and mind, concentration, self-confidence, and immunity. This martial art also makes the body flexible. Training is done using weapons such as swords and shields and using steps, jumps, twists, and turns. There are also some medical treatments related to Kalaripayattu. The person who teaches Kalaripayattu is called a Guru. Watching Kalaripayattu practice is exciting and thrilling. There are many Kalaripayattu centres in Kerala. Tourists can experience these in Munnar and Thekkady.
PARAGLAIDING
Paragliding is a sport in which you fly in the sky according to the direction of the wind. Paragliding is an adventurous, exciting and thrilling sport. You fly in the sky with the help of a pilot with the help of wings arranged like an umbrella. They move by understanding the speed and direction of the wind. Only a trained pilot can do this. Although it is a dangerous sport, by choosing suitable places and with the help of a trained pilot, paragliding attracts adventurous tourists. Places like Munnar and Vagamon in Kerala are suitable and famous for paragliding. Tourists also get a new experience through this. Getting beautiful aerial views from the sky is extremely enjoyable.
TREKKING
Trekking is another major attraction in Kerala. Trekking is an activity to enjoy the beauty of nature and adventure. It helps to improve physical fitness and mental health. There are many trekking trails and points in Kerala. Choosing the right trekking spot is important. Some places are rich in beautiful scenery and others are adventurous trails. Trekking through the forests is very exciting and enjoyable. It is necessary to ensure the availability of necessary equipment and the presence of experienced people. Monsoon trekking trails are also located in Kerala. Many trekking centres are located in Munnar, Vagamon, Wayanad, Agasthyaarkoodam, Chembra Peak and other places in Kerala.
AYURVEDA TREATMENT & MASSAGE
Ayurveda is a traditional form of treatment in India. Kerala is world famous for its Ayurvedic treatment. The favourable climate of Kerala is also an important factor in Ayurvedic treatment. Ayurveda is a traditional form of treatment that maintains a person's physical and mental health and helps in treating diseases. Exercises, diets, scrubs, massages, oils, and decoctions to be consumed are all included in this treatment. Oil is applied to a person's body and then soft strokes are performed. Due to this, blood flow increases and metabolic wastes are removed from the body. Head massage for hair loss and insomnia, face massage for facial rejuvenation, herbal leaf massage for rheumatism, and compresses. Many treatments are performed in Ayurveda treatment, including kalarimarma massage, and foot massage, which is performed on the patient using the feet with the support of a rope fixed to the ceiling. Since Kerala is a major centre of Ayurveda treatment, tourists who come here undergo short and long-term Ayurveda treatment. There are many Ayurveda treatment centres located in Kerala. Therefore, it is helpful for tourists to receive treatments.
JEEP SAFARIS
Taking a jeep safari in Kerala is a very exciting experience. A jeep trip allows tourists to see and experience new sights. When traveling on new routes rather than the well-trodden ones, new sights, adventures, and experiences come to us. This journey is through difficult roads that ordinary vehicles cannot pass through. Such jeep safaris make it possible to easily pass through such forests and mountain roads and capture the views. That is why it is possible to see new sights. When taking such trips into the forest, the beauty of nature, the hidden wonders of the forest, and the opportunity to see animals and birds in their habitat are exciting for tourists. Compared to the old travel routes, new paths and views will surely delight you. Munnar, Vagamon, Wayanad, and Thekkady such jeep safaris are available in many tourist destinations including Muthanga. Indeed, jeep safari is one of the activities that tourists who love variety and adventure should try.
BAMBOO RAFTING
Traveling on bamboo rafts through the rivers of Kerala is an extremely exciting and enjoyable experience. Such travel plans are also available for tourists in Thekkady, Pathanamthitta, and Kuruva Island in Wayanad. Enjoying the waves of the rivers on bamboo rafts made of bamboo is an unforgettable experience for any traveller.
FESTIVALS IN KERALA
Festivals in Kerala are those that uphold customs, rituals, and unique culture and traditions. The participation of all sections of the people is the specialty of the festivals. Religious festivals and general festivals are celebrated by all kinds of people, transcending religious boundaries. Onam, Thrissur Pooram, Theyyam, Attukal Pongala Mahotsavam, Sabarimala Makaravilakku Mahotsavam, Navratri Mahotsavam, Easter, Ramadan, Shivaratri, Bhimapalli Uroos, Deepavali, Eid, Muharram, Christmas, Dukkha Velli, Vishu, and many other local festivals are held in Kerala. Onam is the harvest festival and the main celebration of Kerala. Vishu marks the beginning of the New Year for Malayali’s. Navratri is the festival of Shakti worship. Shivaratri Celebrated for the pleasure of Lord Shiva. Sabarimala Makaravilakku is the main festival held in the month of Makara in Sabarimala. Deepavali is the festival of lights. Muharram is a day of mourning. Eid is a small festival. Christmas is the birth of Jesus Christ. Easter is the day of resurrection, Thrissur Pooram is a world-famous festival, and Good Friday is the day of the crucifixion. In addition, water festivals are also specialties of Kerala. If tourists are able to participate in such special days, they are given unforgettable memories.
DOLPHINS AT CHERAI BEACH KERALA
Cherai Beach is a beautiful beach located in Kochi, Kerala. It is famous for seeing dolphins. It is one of the few places where you can see the beach and the sea in one place. The main attraction here is watching the dolphins by boat. This is also the best place in Kerala to see dolphins swimming close to the shore. Therefore, this is a place that tourists must definitely visit.
PERIYAR TIGER RESERVE TRIAL THEKKADY
The Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India. It is one of the oldest tiger reserves in the country. It is a natural forest area. The Periyar Tiger Reserve Trail, run by the Forest and Wildlife Department, is conducted here. Participants in this trail get the opportunity to see nature in its lap. Watch towers, trekking trails and forest lodges are also provided for viewing wildlife. This gives tourists the opportunity to see wildlife in their habitat.
NATURE WALK KUMARAKAM
The best way to see the beautiful sights that nature has prepared is through a nature walk. Kumarakom is one such nature walk. There is no doubt that enjoying the views while walking through the lush green paddy fields, lake shores, and bird sanctuaries will fill the mind of any traveller.
ELEPHANT RIDE IN KERALA
Kerala is famous for elephant riding. Elephant riding is an unforgettable experience in anyone's mind. An elephant ride is an extremely exciting, adventurous and different experience. In Kerala, elephant riding centres are being established in many places like Munnar, Guruvayur, Wayanad and others. Elephants attract tourists from all over the world. Riding an elephant, the strongest and largest land animal, is an activity that surprises, delights and makes any traveller a little proud. Therefore, elephant riding is one of the activities that you must definitely try when visiting Kerala.
ROCK CLIMBING
Rock climbing is another attraction in Kerala. You can climb the mountains covered in mist and climb the steep cliffs there. There are many places in Kerala to try such adventurous things. Munnar, Thekkady, Vagamon, and Wayanad are just a few. Adventurous tourists are welcome to this activity.
TREE HOUSE
A tree house is a residential dwelling built high above the ground level among the branches of a suitable tree. They are used for recreation, residence, and observation purposes. Such structures are usually built in scenic places. Such structures are also found in forest areas. The accommodation in these and the views of the surroundings are extremely beautiful and magnificent. While staying in tree houses built in the forest, one can see the wildness of the forest at night and the nocturnal movement and prey of animals. A comfortable and eco-friendly stay at a height in an atmosphere filled with the sounds of nature is very enjoyable. Since such tree houses are built all over Kerala as a result of tourism, it is important to understand their importance and tourists should try them out during their travels. Munnar, Idukki there are many such tree houses located in various places like Thekkady and Vagamon.
WATER SPORTS IN KERALA (KOVALAM, ALEPPY, KOCHI, MUNNAR, THEKKADY, KUMARAKAM)
Kerala is famous for water sports. With 44 major rivers and many beaches and backwaters, the potential for water sports is understandable. Many water sports such as kayaking, canoeing ,river crossing ,boating ,banana ride ,catamaran sailing, surfing, parasailing, sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling, bamboo rafting are practiced in Kerala. Places like Kovalam, Varkala, Alappuzha (Alleppey), Munnar, Kumarakom, Kochi, Wayanad, and Thekkady are famous for water sports. These places are also the favourite destinations of adventure lovers and enthusiasts. Facilities are available in Kerala to engage in water sports of your choice according to the wishes of the tourists.
