Discovering the Best Offbeat Places of Kerala
Commonly known as 'God's Own Country', Kerala is a world-renowned destination famed for its picturesque landscapes, fascinating backwaters, lush tea gardens, and golden sandy beaches. While the widely prevalent picture of Kerala usually includes familiar places like Munnar, Alleppey, and Kochi, this southern Indian state carries hidden gems worth exploring. This article unravels the best offbeat places of Kerala, an unexplored heaven away from the regular tourist rush.
1. Marari Beach
An unexplored and idyllic beach in the fishing village of Mararikulam, Marari beach offers a relaxed and peaceful ambience missing in most popular tourist destinations. Its pristine shorelines kissed by the azure Arabian Sea's waves provide a perfect place for tranquility seekers. This beach also opens a window to the intriguing local life of Kerala's fishermen.
2. Gavi
Nestled in the Pathanamthitta district, Gavi is a perfect eco-tourist spot. It is home to diverse flora and fauna including tiger, elephants, leopards and more. This place also offers activities like trekking, wildlife watching and night camping. Gavi's unspoiled beauty and serene landscape are a visual delight for nature lovers and photographers alike.
3. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Wayanad district, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its large elephant population. The jeep safari gives you an opportunity to spot elephants, deer, leopards, and if lucky, tigers. The watchtower near the lake here provides a panoramic view of the wildlife at the watering hole.
4. Kakkathuruthu
Kakkathuruthu, or the 'Island of Crows', is nestled amidst Kerala's impressive backwater landscape. This tiny island, recognized by National Geographic, offers mesmerizing sunset views. A canoe trip around the island is an enthralling journey through mangroves forests, paddy fields, and sighting of rare birds.
5. Ponmudi Hills
This hill station of the Thiruvananthapuram district is a quaint place, yet to be discovered by mainstream tourism. Ponmudi Hills gives refreshing views of rolling green hills and tea estates. Adventure enthusiast can indulge in trekking and mountain climbing here.
6. Silent Valley National Park
Silent Valley is a biologically rich national park located in the Kundali Hills. It adds to Kerala's beauty with its tropical evergreen rainforests. This place is a dream for every wildlife lover and nature enthusiast for its varied species of fauna, breath-taking landscapes, and soothing climate.
7. Vattavada,
This is a remote village surrounded by beautiful mountains, located about 45kms away from Munnar. Vattavada is known for its vast stretches of vegetable and fruit farms. A visit here not only provides a feast to your eyes but also let you experience the lifestyle of the tribal community of Kerala.
8. Nelliyampathy
Another offbeat gem of Kerala, Nelliyampathy, is located in Palakkad. Surrounded by tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, it offers breath-taking views and a cool climate. The pathways leading to Nelliyampathy itself is an adventure ride with numerous hairpin curves.
These hidden treasures of Kerala make you realize that there is much more to this paradise beyond the popular destinations. No matter where you go, each place in Kerala tells a unique story and offers a different experience, making it a world inside a world. From serene beaches to green valleys, adventurous trails to calming wildlife sanctuaries - these offbeat places of Kerala are must-visits for anyone who needs a break from the clichéd tourist places and wishes to experience the raw. untouched beauty.
Conclusion
Visiting these offbeat places brings you closer to Mother Nature and the vibrant local culture of Kerala, creating an unforgettable travel experience. If you are someone who prefers solitude and wants to venture away from the crowded places, plan a visit to these serene locations on your next trip to Kerala.
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