Central Kerala Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Central Kerala. Learn about local culture and customs, safety and health tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Central Kerala

Central Kerala, located in the southern part of India, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a mix of culture, outdoor adventures, and scenic landscapes. This region is defined by diverse terrain, from the Western Ghats mountain range to the Arabian Sea coast. Central Kerala is also rich in history and culture, with ancient temples, museums, and traditional art forms.

List of Places to Visit in Central Kerala

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mattancherry Palace: This historic palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch. The palace features a museum showcasing traditional Kerala architecture and artifacts.
  • Hill Palace Museum: This archaeological museum in Tripunithura was once the royal palace of the Kochi dynasty. The museum features a collection of artifacts, artwork, and royal regalia.
  • Fort Kochi: This colonial-era neighborhood in Kochi is home to several historic landmarks, including St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India), the Chinese Fishing Nets, and the Dutch Cemetery.

Natural Attractions of Central Kerala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Munnar: This hill station in the Western Ghats is known for its tea plantations, trekking trails, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
  • Periyar National Park: This wildlife sanctuary in Thekkady is home to elephants, tigers, and other exotic species. You can take a boat safari or a trekking tour to explore the park.
  • Kerala Backwaters: This network of brackish lagoons, lakes, and canals is a unique ecosystem that runs parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. You can experience the backwaters by taking a houseboat ride, fishing, or kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Kerala

Central Kerala offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best routes include:

  • Munnar–Anamudi: This trek takes you through tea plantations, cardamom forests, and grasslands, ultimately leading to the peak of Anamudi (the highest mountain in South India).
  • Bhoothathankettu: This cycling trail takes you through dense forests, hills, and waterfalls.
  • Thattekad–Kodanad: This birdwatching tour takes you through the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and the elephant training camp at Kodanad.

Best Things to Do in Central Kerala: Activities and Tours

  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to make traditional Kerala dishes such as appam, dosa, and fish curry from local chefs.
  • Kathakali Performance: Watch a live performance of this traditional dance-drama form that originated in Kerala.
  • Ayurvedic Spa: Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment that combines ancient Indian healing techniques with natural herbs and oils.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Kerala

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi and visit Fort Kochi Day 2: Explore Mattancherry Palace and Hill Palace Museum Day 3: Trekking in Munnar Day 4: Safari in Periyar National Park Day 5: Houseboat ride in Kerala Backwaters Day 6: Cycling in Bhoothathankettu Day 7: Ayurvedic spa treatment and departure

Food and Drink Scene of Central Kerala

Must-Try Dishes

  • Appam: A pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk.
  • Puttu: A cylindrical steamed rice cake that is usually served with kadala curry or banana.
  • Fish Curry: A spicy and tangy curry made with coconut milk and local spices.

Local Beverages

  • Toddy: A fermented drink made from the sap of coconut palms.
  • Sulaimani: A spicy hot tea made with black tea leaves, lemon juice, and herbs.

Where to Stay in Central Kerala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Central Kerala, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular choices include:

  • Taj Malabar Resort and Spa, Kochi: A luxurious waterfront resort with panoramic views of Cochin Harbor.
  • Zostel, Munnar: A budget-friendly hostel that offers nature walks and campfires.
  • Vythiri Resort, Wayanad: A serene retreat nestled amidst tea and coffee plantations.

What to Buy in Central Kerala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Spices: Kerala is known for its spices such as black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.
  • Coir Products: Coir mats, rugs, and baskets are popular handicrafts in Kerala.
  • Handloom Products: Kerala is famous for its handloom textiles, including sarees, mundu, and dhotis.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Kerala

Kerala has a diverse and unique culture that is strongly influenced by its geography and history. Some customs and traditions to keep in mind while visiting Central Kerala include:

  • Ayurveda: Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medicine system, is widely practiced in Kerala. You might see locals using Ayurvedic remedies or treatments.
  • Temples: Kerala is home to many ancient temples, and visitors are expected to follow certain dress codes and behavior rules when visiting these religious sites.
  • Language: While the official language of Kerala is Malayalam, many locals speak English and Hindi as well.

Best Time to Visit Central Kerala

The best time to visit Central Kerala is from October to February, when the weather is relatively cool and dry. The monsoon season from June to September can make outdoor activities challenging, but it does offer lush greenery and lower prices on accommodations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Kerala

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local communities.
  • Try the local cuisine, especially seafood dishes.
  • Embrace the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Consume alcohol or meat in public places.
  • Take photographs without permission, especially of locals or in religious sites.
  • Participate in any activities that could harm the environment or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Kerala

Central Kerala is a relatively safe destination for tourists, but as with any travel, visitors should take certain precautions. Some tips for staying safe in Central Kerala include:

  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
  • Use licensed transportation services and avoid hitchhiking or taking unmarked taxis.
  • Keep your valuable possessions safe and secure.

Health in Central Kerala

While Kerala has a good healthcare system, travelers should take some precautions to ensure a healthy trip. Some tips to stay healthy in Central Kerala include:

  • Drink safe water and avoid food from unhygienic sources.
  • Pack mosquito repellent and take steps to avoid mosquito bites as dengue fever, malaria, and other mosquito-transmitted diseases are a concern in Central Kerala.
  • Check with your doctor about necessary vaccinations or medications, if any.

Getting to Central Kerala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central Kerala

  • Cochin International Airport: The third-busiest airport in India, located in Kochi.
  • Calicut International Airport: Located in Karipur, approximately 170 kilometers north of Kochi.

Bus Stations Near Central Kerala

Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs a vast network of buses connecting major cities and towns in Kerala. Some of the major bus stations in Central Kerala include:

  • Ernakulam KSRTC Bus Station, Kochi
  • Kottayam KSRTC Bus Station
  • Thrissur KSRTC Bus Station

Other Options

If you prefer to travel by train or car, there are plenty of options to reach Central Kerala. Kochi, Kottayam, and Thrissur are well-connected by train, and you can hire a private car or taxi to get around the region.

How to Get Around in Central Kerala

Central Kerala is well-connected by buses, taxis, and rental cars. You can also hire a bike or scooter if you prefer. Many popular destinations, such as Munnar and Kerala Backwaters, are best explored on foot or by boat.

Where to Go Next from Central Kerala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Kerala, there are many nearby destinations that are worth a visit. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Wayanad: A hill station known for its wildlife sanctuaries, trekking trails, and scenic landscapes.
  • Alappuzha: Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alappuzha is famous for its backwater cruises, houseboat rides, and boat races.
  • Kovalam: A coastal town near Thiruvananthapuram, known for its beaches, lighthouses, and water sports.

Conclusion

Central Kerala offers a unique travel experience that blends history, culture, nature, and adventure. From exploring historic landmarks to trekking in the Western Ghats, from indulging in Ayurvedic treatments to savoring traditional cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Central Kerala. Plan your trip today and discover the magic of this fascinating region.

Chimmini Sanctuary Chimmini Sanctuary Guruvayoor temple Guruvayoor temple Poothan thira theyyam Poothan thira theyyam Thrissur Pooram Thrissur Pooram St. Francis Ferona Church, Wadakkancherry St. Francis Ferona Church, Wadakkancherry Kanimangalam Valiyalukkal Temple Kanimangalam Valiyalukkal Temple Inchathotty Bridge Inchathotty Bridge Jackfruit tree Jackfruit tree Aymuri Temple Aymuri Temple


    Cherai
    Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary
    Guruvayoor
    Kochi
    Kodikunnu
    Kodungallur
    North Paravur
    Paniyeli Poru
    Perumbavoor
    Thrissur
    Valapad