Fort Kochi beach is a beach along the Arabian Sea situated in Fort Kochi in the city of Kochi in South India, Kerala state. It is a serene beach that offers a beautiful view of the sunset.

Fort Kochi beach is a popular tourist spot in Kochi, Kerala. It's known for its beautiful sunset views, Chinese fishing nets, and the nearby St. Francis Church. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Kerala. The beach is clean and well-maintained, making it a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely walks. /n The Chinese fishing nets are a unique sight and are still used by local fishermen. These nets, which are suspended in water on bamboo or teak poles, are believed to have been introduced by Chinese explorers who came to Kochi in the 14th century. The beach is also close to several other attractions in Kochi, including the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

A serene beach located in Kochi, known for its beautiful sunset views and Chinese fishing nets.

The Tea Gardens of Munnar are a sight to behold. The lush greenery of the tea plantations, set against the backdrop of rolling hills, provides a picturesque landscape that's perfect for photography.

The tea gardens of Munnar, spread across the rolling hills of the town, are a sight to behold. The lush greenery, the cool climate, and the serene environment make it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. /n The tea gardens are not just about the stunning views. They also offer an insight into the tea-making process. You can see the tea pickers at work, plucking the leaves with expert precision. Some of the estates also have factories where you can see the processing of the tea leaves, from withering and rolling to fermenting and drying. /n A visit to the tea gardens is not just a visual treat, but also an educational experience. It's a must-visit when you are in Munnar.

The tea gardens of Munnar are a sight to behold, offering a serene environment and a glimpse into the tea-making process.

Eravikulam National Park is a sanctuary for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and offers stunning natural beauty.

Eravikulam National Park, located in the high ranges of Munnar, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Kerala. The park is a sanctuary for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a species of mountain goat. /n The park is also known for its rich biodiversity, with a variety of flora and fauna. The scenic beauty of the park, with its rolling grasslands and sholas, high peaks, and cascading streams, makes it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Eravikulam National Park is a sanctuary for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Thekkady is the perfect example of nature's bounty with great scenic beauty and rich biodiversity.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the lush landscapes of Thekkady, Kerala, is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. It's home to a wide array of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds and reptiles. /n The sanctuary is spread over an area of 925 sq km, and its centerpiece is the beautiful Periyar Lake. The lake, formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam, offers boat rides that provide a unique opportunity to observe the wildlife at close quarters. The sanctuary also offers other activities like trekking, bamboo rafting, and jungle night patrols. /n The best time to visit the sanctuary is from October to June. It's not just the wildlife, but also the picturesque landscapes that make a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary a memorable experience.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a renowned wildlife reserve in Kerala, offering a rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes.

Thekkady is renowned for its spice plantations. Tourists can take a walk through the aromatic spice gardens, learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of spices.

The spice plantations of Thekkady are a must-visit for anyone interested in the cultivation of spices. Visitors can take a guided tour of the plantations, learning about the different types of spices grown here and their uses. The plantations are set amidst the beautiful landscapes of Thekkady, with lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere. /n During the tour, visitors can see how spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg are grown and processed. They can also learn about the medicinal properties of these spices. The tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the tour both informative and enjoyable. The spice plantations of Thekkady offer a unique cultural experience that is not to be missed.

A tour of the spice plantations in Thekkady offers a unique insight into the cultivation of spices.

A houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey is a unique experience that lets you enjoy the natural beauty of Kerala. The houseboats, also known as 'Kettuvallams', offer a great way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters.

A houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Kerala. It offers a unique and relaxing way to explore the beauty of the region, with its lush greenery, tranquil waters, and abundant wildlife. The houseboats, also known as 'kettuvallams', are traditional boats that have been converted into comfortable accommodations, complete with bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and a lounge area. /n During the cruise, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the backwaters, watch local life along the banks, and spot a variety of birds and other wildlife. The houseboats also serve delicious Kerala cuisine, prepared using fresh local ingredients. A houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey is truly a memorable experience that showcases the best of Kerala's natural beauty and culture.

A houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey offers a unique and relaxing way to explore the beauty of Kerala.

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasham Beach is a beach in Varkala. It's known for its beauty and the unique cliff that's found adjacent to the beach.

Varkala Beach is a popular tourist spot known for its beautiful sandy beaches, natural springs, and cliffs. The beach is also known for its seaside restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. /n The beach is lined with coconut palms, making it a picturesque spot for a relaxing vacation. The beach is also known for its natural springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. The cliffs of Varkala are another major attraction, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. /n The beach is also a great spot for adventure activities, with options for surfing and parasailing. The beach is also known for its sunset views, which are truly breathtaking. The beach is also home to several resorts and homestays, making it a comfortable place for a vacation. The beach is also known for its food, with several restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Varkala Beach is a popular tourist spot known for its beautiful sandy beaches, natural springs, and cliffs.

The Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old temple situated in Varkala. It is an important Vaishnavaite shrine in India and is often referred to as Dakshin Kashi (Benares of the South). The temple is located close to the Papanasam beach, which is considered to have holy waters which wash away sins, and is also an important Ayurveda treatment centre.

The Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old temple located in Varkala, Kerala. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. It is situated on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. /n The temple has a large inner courtyard, with a tall tower at the entrance. The main shrine houses an idol of Lord Vishnu. The temple also has shrines dedicated to other deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesh, and Goddess Parvati. The temple is particularly crowded during the annual festival, which is held in March-April. The Janardhana Swamy Temple is not just a place of worship, but also a cultural landmark that offers a glimpse into the religious traditions and architectural styles of Kerala.

The Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old temple located in Varkala, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It's known for its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.

The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple situated in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, India. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture, making it a significant cultural and architectural site in India. /n The temple is also known for its rich history and religious significance. It is believed to be one of the 108 holy abodes of Lord Vishnu. The temple's main deity, Lord Vishnu, is seen in the 'Anantha Shayanam' posture, which is the eternal yogic sleep on the serpent Adisheshan. The temple is also famous for its mural paintings and stone carvings, which are a testament to the artistic excellence of the bygone era.

The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is known for its architectural grandeur.

The Napier Museum is a well-known art and natural history museum. It houses a vast collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, and a temple chariot.

Napier Museum is a landmark in Thiruvananthapuram, showcasing Kerala's rich cultural heritage and history. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient ornaments, bronze idols, and historical paintings. /n The museum is named after Lord Napier, the former Governor of Madras, who commissioned its construction in the 19th century. The building itself is a marvel, designed in the Indo-Saracenic style, with intricate carvings and a vibrant red exterior. /n Inside, the museum offers a glimpse into Kerala's past, with exhibits ranging from archaeological finds to ethnographic displays. The museum also houses a natural history section, featuring a variety of animal and bird specimens. A visit to the Napier Museum is a must for history and culture enthusiasts.

Napier Museum is a landmark in Thiruvananthapuram, showcasing Kerala's rich cultural heritage and history.

Kovalam Beach is internationally renowned for its three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists since the 1930s.

Kovalam Beach, located in Kerala, is a world-renowned beach known for its beautiful crescent-shaped coastline. The beach is divided into three parts - Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach. /n The Lighthouse Beach, named after the Vizhinjam Lighthouse located on a rocky promontory, is the most popular among the three. The beach is a favorite spot for activities like swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The beach also offers a variety of seafood delicacies at the beachside eateries. The stunning view of the Arabian Sea, the golden sands, and the swaying palm trees make Kovalam Beach a must-visit.

Kovalam Beach is a world-renowned beach in Kerala known for its crescent-shaped coastline and lighthouse.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Kerala, India, often referred to as "God's Own Country". This tropical paradise offers a harmonious blend of cultural, historical, and natural wonders. Explore the serene backwaters on a traditional houseboat, walk through the aromatic spice plantations, and witness the majestic elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage by witnessing the Kathakali performances and visiting the ancient temples. Relax on the pristine beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, or rejuvenate with authentic Ayurvedic treatments. Indulge in the unique flavors of Kerala cuisine, featuring seafood and coconut-rich dishes. Kerala's warm hospitality and diverse landscapes make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Fort Kochi beach

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast featuring traditional Kerala cuisine. Enjoy the local delicacies like Puttu, Kadala curry, and Appam.

For lunch, indulge in a sumptuous Kerala Sadya, a traditional banquet served on a banana leaf.

Spend the afternoon relaxing at the beautiful Fort Kochi beach. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy the cool sea breeze.

Enjoy a dinner featuring seafood specialties of Kerala. Try the famous Karimeen Pollichathu or Kerala style prawn curry.

End the day with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage, a traditional form of holistic healing that originated in Kerala.

Exploring Kochi

Tea gardens of Munnar

Eravikulam National Park

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Tea gardens of Munnar. Enjoy a cup of fresh tea while soaking in the serene beauty of the hills.

For lunch, try the local cuisine of Munnar, which includes dishes like Kappa (Tapioca) and Fish Curry.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.

Enjoy a dinner featuring the hill cuisine of Munnar, with dishes like Avial and Kerala style chicken curry.

End the day with a relaxing stroll through the local markets of Munnar, where you can shop for local spices and handicrafts.

Munnar Tea Gardens and Eravikulam National Park

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Spice plantations of Thekkady

Start your day with a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in South India.

For lunch, try the local cuisine of Thekkady, which includes dishes like Kerala style biryani and Beef roast.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Spice plantations of Thekkady. Learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

Enjoy a dinner featuring the local cuisine of Thekkady, with dishes like Kerala style fish curry and vegetable stew.

End the day with a traditional Kathakali performance, a classical dance form of Kerala.

Wildlife and Spices in Thekkady

Houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey

Start your day with a leisurely Houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy the serene beauty of the backwaters and the lush green paddy fields.

For lunch, enjoy a traditional Kerala meal on the houseboat, featuring dishes like Kerala style fish curry and vegetable Thoran.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the houseboat, enjoying the beautiful views of the backwaters and the local life along the banks.

Enjoy a dinner on the houseboat, featuring local delicacies like Duck roast and Kerala style prawn curry.

End the day with a relaxing evening on the houseboat, under the starlit sky, with the soothing sounds of the backwaters in the background.

Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey

Varkala Beach

Janardhana Swamy Temple

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Varkala Beach. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach and soak in the beauty of the Arabian Sea.

For lunch, try the local cuisine of Varkala, which includes dishes like Kerala style fish curry and Tapioca.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Janardhana Swamy Temple, a 2000-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Enjoy a dinner featuring the local cuisine of Varkala, with dishes like Kerala style chicken curry and vegetable Thoran.

End the day with a relaxing stroll along the Varkala cliff, enjoying the beautiful sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Beach and Temples in Varkala

Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Napier Museum

Kovalam Beach

Start your day with a visit to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the most famous temples in Kerala.

For lunch, try the local cuisine of Trivandrum, which includes dishes like Kerala style biryani and Fish Molly.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Napier Museum, which houses a rich collection of archaeological and historic artifacts.

Enjoy a dinner featuring the local cuisine of Trivandrum, with dishes like Kerala style fish curry and vegetable stew.

End your Kerala trip with a visit to the beautiful Kovalam Beach. Enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Arabian Sea, and reflect on the wonderful memories made during the trip.

Historical Trivandrum

UTC+5.5

Kerala has four international airports: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, Cochin International Airport, Kozhikode International Airport, and Kannur International Airport. These airports connect Kerala with major cities in India and abroad.

Kerala has a well-connected railway network that links it with all major cities in India. Some of the major railway stations in Kerala are Thiruvananthapuram Central, Ernakulam Junction, and Kozhikode.

Kerala has a good network of roads and highways connecting all major cities and towns. Buses, both government and private, are the most common mode of road transport. There are also numerous taxi services available.

Auto rickshaws are a popular mode of transport for short distances within cities and towns in Kerala. They are three-wheeled vehicles that can accommodate up to three passengers.

Kerala is known for its beautiful backwaters, and boats and ferries are a common mode of transport in these areas. The state-run Kerala State Water Transport Department operates boat services in the backwaters.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Ola are available in major cities in Kerala. These services offer a convenient way to travel around the city, and can be booked using their respective mobile apps.

In some tourist areas, bicycles are available for rent. This is an eco-friendly way to explore the local sights at your own pace.

Walking is a great way to explore the local markets, beaches, and other attractions in Kerala. Many cities and towns in Kerala are pedestrian-friendly.

In some tourist areas and cities, motorcycles and scooters are available for rent. This provides a flexible and convenient way to explore at your own pace.

A traditional vegetarian feast of Kerala, Sadya is served on a banana leaf and includes a variety of dishes like sambar, avial, pachadi, and payasam. It is a must-try for its unique flavors and is especially popular during festivals.

Sadya

A staple breakfast dish in Kerala, Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake cooked with coconut shavings, which is served with Kadala curry, a spicy chickpea curry.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Appam is a type of pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It's often served with stew, a creamy, mildly spiced curry made with vegetables or meat.

Appam with Stew

A flavorful and aromatic dish, Malabar Biryani is a type of biryani from the Malabar region of Kerala. It is made with basmati rice, meat, and a blend of spices.

Malabar Biryani

A spicy and tangy dish, Kerala Prawn Curry is made with prawns cooked in a coconut milk gravy with a blend of spices. It's a must-try for seafood lovers.

Kerala Prawn Curry

Karimeen Pollichathu is a traditional Kerala dish where the Pearl Spot fish is marinated with spices, wrapped in a banana leaf, and then grilled or baked.

Karimeen Pollichathu

A popular non-vegetarian dish in Kerala, Beef Fry is made with beef pieces marinated in a mix of spices and then fried until crispy.

Beef Fry

A traditional dessert of Kerala, Palada Payasam is a sweet dish made with rice ada, milk, sugar, and ghee. It's often served during festivals and special occasions.

Palada Payasam

Known as Pazham Pori in Kerala, Banana Fritters are a popular snack made with ripe bananas coated in a flour batter and then deep-fried.

Banana Fritters

Toddy, also known as Kallu, is a local alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees. It's a traditional drink of Kerala and is often consumed with spicy dishes.

Toddy

Sambharam, also known as spiced buttermilk, is a refreshing drink made with yogurt, water, and spices. It's a popular summer drink in Kerala.

Sambharam

Chai is a popular Indian tea made with milk, tea leaves, and a blend of spices. It's a staple beverage in Kerala and is often served with snacks.

Chai

Republic Day

Dolyatra

Holi

Rama Navami

Mahavir Jayanti

Good Friday

Ramzan Id/Eid-ul-Fitar

Buddha Purnima/Vesak

Bakrid/Eid ul-Adha

Muharram/Ashura

Independence Day

Janmashtami

Milad un-Nabi/Id-e-Milad

Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti

Dussehra

Diwali/Deepavali

Guru Nanak Jayanti

Christmas

Lohri

Famous for its beaches, nightlife, and Portuguese architecture.

Known for its beaches, temples, and culture.

Chennai

The financial capital of India, known for its fast-paced life, beaches, and Bollywood.

Mumbai

Known for its rich history, cuisine, and pearls.

Hyderabad

The capital of India, known for its rich history and diverse culture.

Delhi

Jaipur

Kochi

New Delhi

Elephant family in wild nature walking near the forest

Kadhakali, a rare perfoming folk dance of Kerala state ,on the banks of Pampa river

South Indian women in white saree decorating floor with flowers to celebrate Onam

Kerala has a tropical climate, so pack light cotton clothes.

The official language is Malayalam, but English is widely spoken and understood.

The currency used is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic treatments. Try to experience an Ayurvedic massage or treatment.

Kerala cuisine is rich in spices. Be prepared for spicy food, but you can always ask for less spicy options.

Always drink bottled water to avoid any health issues.

Public display of affection is not appreciated in Kerala, like most parts of India.

Kerala is a relatively safe place to travel, but it's always good to be cautious of your belongings.

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A tip of 10% is usually acceptable in restaurants.

Kerala has a good network of public transport including buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. You can also hire a car for a more comfortable journey.

Always respect local customs and traditions. Kerala has a rich cultural heritage.

Monsoon season in Kerala is from June to August and can be very heavy. If you're not a fan of rain, avoid these months.

The average temperature in Kerala ranges from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C).

Kerala has strict laws against littering. Always dispose of your waste properly.

Bargaining is common in local markets. Don't hesitate to negotiate the price.

Kerala is known for its tea and spice plantations. Buying these as souvenirs is a good idea.

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or private property.

Kerala has a strong tradition of arts and crafts. Try to attend a Kathakali performance or visit a local craft workshop.

Kerala is a major hub for yoga and meditation. Participating in a session can be a unique experience.

Kerala has a diverse wildlife. If you're interested, plan a visit to one of the many wildlife sanctuaries.

January is a pleasant month in Kerala, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

February sees a slight increase in temperature, making it a perfect time for beach activities and wildlife exploration.

March marks the beginning of summer in Kerala, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for water sports and exploring the local culture.

April is one of the hottest months in Kerala, but it's also the time for the famous Thrissur Pooram festival. Ensure to stay hydrated and wear light clothes.

May experiences pre-monsoon showers, bringing down the temperature a bit. It's a good time to visit hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.

June marks the onset of monsoon in Kerala, with temperatures dropping to a comfortable range. It's a great time to experience the lush green landscapes and Ayurvedic treatments.

July continues to experience monsoon showers, making the state look fresh and green. It's a good time for indoor activities and spa treatments.

August sees the end of monsoon season, with the state looking its greenest. It's also the time for the famous Onam festival.

September marks the beginning of post-monsoon season, with less rainfall and moderate temperatures. It's a good time for sightseeing and exploring the backwaters.

October experiences occasional rainfall and the weather starts to get warmer. It's a good time for beach activities and exploring the local markets.

November is a pleasant month with less rainfall and comfortable temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the wildlife.

December is a peak tourist season in Kerala, with pleasant weather and lots of festivities. It's a perfect time for sightseeing, beach activities, and exploring the local culture.

Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is a tropical paradise in India that experiences diverse weather conditions throughout the year. The state has three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.

Summer in Kerala starts from February and continues until May. During this period, temperatures can rise up to 95°F (35°C), with the coastal areas being particularly hot and humid. It's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. This is a great time to visit the hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad where the weather is cooler.

The monsoon season, from June to August and again from October to November, is characterized by heavy rainfall due to the southwest and northeast monsoons. The temperatures during this period range between 77°F (25°C) and 86°F (30°C). If you're planning to visit during the monsoon, be prepared for sudden downpours. Carry waterproof clothing and footwear. Despite the rain, this is a beautiful time to visit as the landscape is lush and green, and it's the perfect time for Ayurvedic treatments.

Winter, from December to January, is the most pleasant time to visit Kerala. The weather is cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 68°F (20°C) and 77°F (25°C). This is the best time for sightseeing, beach activities, and wildlife safaris. Carry light woolens as the evenings can get a bit chilly.

Regardless of the season, always carry an umbrella or raincoat when visiting Kerala as rain showers are quite common. Also, don't forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the tropical sun. 

Remember, Kerala's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful state!

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6-Day Local Family & Foodie Retreat in Kerala, India

About Kerala, India