5 Breathtakingly Beautiful Lakes of Kerala

There might hardly be anyone who dislikes the luxury tree house Kerala or the houseboat cruise over the calm waters of backwaters and placid lakes. There might be someone who says no to dine ethnic cuisines and fresh fish and spend few days around the heavenly atmosphere and breathtaking views.

Lakes in Kerala

So, have a look at the top 5 stunning lakes in Kerala for which you shouldn’t miss Kerala Holiday Deals.

1.   Vembanad Lake: Rich in green algae, Vembanad Lake is situated about 15 km away from Kottayam and this first and foremost Indian lake is the longest lake of the country. With having the largest surface water source, Vembanad Lake is a most integral part of exclusive wetland system. It has become vast and deep with the flow of number of rivers. On its eastern coast, Kumarakom is located that is also known for a bird sanctuary.

2.   Ashtamudi Lake: Spread over 1700 sq. km. of core area, this large lake has over 8 tentacles flowing through the evergreen lands. Over 100 species of fish are spotted in the mineral-rich waters of this lake that also plays a vital role to support the eco-system. This also houses the world-famous Chinese Fishing Nets.

3.   Punnamada Kayal: From Alappuzha, this lake enjoys Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race during the country’s famous Onam Festival. The snake-shaped long boats, namely Chundan Vallam, are rowed by over 50 to 100 rowers in this exciting race.

4.   Sashthamkotta Lake: Kerala’s largest lake of freshwaters, you can even drink the water without any hesitation. An ancient Sastha temple stands on its bank that is known to protect decency in Kalyuga (the evil era of present). You can get its view when you sail along the lake. This is most rewarding destination for the biological scientists and enthusiasts. You can also discover rare but weird species of flora over here.

5.   Pookode Lake: In the Kerala’s northernmost tip, Wayanad houses valleys and hills. The scenic Pookode Lake is also nestled here. You cannot pick water lilies even though the surface area is dotted with them. At the time of sailing on the boat, monkeys can easily be seen swinging on different trees. However, you may be lucky enough to see various herds of deer grazing or drinking along the shore.

As human greed is encroaching along the banks of these lakes, we can just hope these lakes will stay alive to be explored by next generation.

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Kerala Tourist Destinations Listed by UNESCO

About 29 tourist destinations are listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO (United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization). And this is, undeniably, a matter of pride for India. As Western Ghats are the last spot listed as World Heritage Site, the locals of Kerala are happy to know that Western Ghats have the ending point in Kerala after passing from several states. All the listed tourist destinations are endorsed with either natural or cultural legacy. Out of 29 UNESCO-listed heritage sites of India, 23 of them endorse cultural legacy while balance 6 are categorized in natural legacy.

Spots in Western Ghats recognized by UNESCO

About 39 places in Kerala and Western Ghats are pointed out by the UNESCO. And 20 spots of these places are from Kerala recognized as eco-friendly destinations. The forests spread around these recognized spots are Chinnar, Pushpagiri, Manavan Chola, Thekkady, Eravikulam, Silent Valley, Pulmedu, and Kaalikavu. In the Western Ghats, Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is renowned as a one of the most significant place. With having evergreen forests in Kerala, the Silent Valley National Park is recognized. In the Western Ghats, about 1600 km of the total area is most ancient and bio-diverse than Himalayas. About 5000 species of rarest plants are grown here and about 140 mammals live here. Another impressive part is that 16 mammals of them are spotted only in this place rather than any other place across the world.

Mattancherry Palace

Another delightful spot in the tentative list of UNESCO’s world heritage site is Mattancherry Palace of Kochi. With the architectural importance of mythological murals, the palace is known for having portraits of King of Cochin. Renowned for having ancient art, Mattancherry Palace is all set to be recognized as a well-designed heritage.

Recommended Spots in Kerala awaiting to be added in UNESCO’s list

A list of other 14 to-be heritage sites is proposed by the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) to be added in Heritage Site list of UNESCO. In this list, some ancient palaces and thousands of years old temples are also added. At the top of the list, the renowned and ancient temple of Sree Vadakkunnathan is added that is known for organizing “pooram” festival. In the list, other temples accompanying Shiva temple are Chemmanamthitta, Triprayar, Thiruvanchikulam, Pallimanna Peruvanam and Arikanniyur. When it comes to the palaces, Palakkad, Saint Angelo, Beckel, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Thalassery and Edakkal Caves are in the tentative list.

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Munnar: Getting There, Accomodation and Best Things To Do

In the whole south India, no tourist destination is more stunning and breathtaking than Munnar. And this is undeniable part of this exotic destination. As it is set 6000 above the altitude of sea level, this is one of the most untouched and unspoiled tourist destinations of Kerala. Located in Idukki district, three rivers namely Nallathanni, Mudrapuzha and Kundala come from the mountains cover this premium hill station. Munnar is also renowned for green and black tea and spices plantation established by the British civilizations.

How to Reach Munnar?

Plenty of options are available to gather here from the package of Kerala houseboat honeymoon. Located approx 130 km, Cochin is the nearest international airport. You can hire a cab to gather here.

Aluva is a nearest railway station that is located around 140 km from Munnar. Hence, roadways are the only convenient way to reach Munnar. Via roadways, Munnar is connected to Kumarakom, Thekkady, Cochin, Alleppey and Coimbatore. If you are new to Kerala, it is best to hire a local driver because there are lots of surprises in the form of bends and dangerous curves on the roadway to Munnar.

When to Reach Munnar?

Throughout the year, you will find same cool and comforting climate in the hill station. Hence, you should bring adequate amount of woolen and winter clothes if you are heading Munnar. During winters, the hill station also receives lowest temperature, sometimes it gains zero degree. This way, you should visit during August and May. If you have plans to explore white and darkest waterfalls in and around Munnar, then it is best to visit during rainfall.

Tourist Attractions in Munnar

Eravikulam National Park: Being Kerala’s one of the superb national parks, this park got famous for exotic wildlife and plant life. In the year 1975, the park was founded with an aim to preserve most endangered species on earth, such as tigers, nilgai, langur, leopard, atlas moth etc. Some parts of Tropical Evergreen forests are covered under this park with having the premium group of flora and fauna to explore.

Atukkal Waterfalls: Located in the proximity of Munnar, these scenic waterfalls fall between the hills and jungles.

Echo Point: This is no more than a small lake on the road to Munnar amidst the hills. The natural echo effects make this point special. You can make any loud call and it will come back to your ears manifold by the nearest hills.

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Exotic Destinations in Kerala That Can Steal Your Heart

Accredited by aesthetic appeal, Kerala is such a wonderful destination which is preferred by every honeymooner, whether Indian or foreigner. From lush greens to crystal clear sandy beaches and from skyrocketing hills thousands of feet deep valleys, Kerala is really a very enthralling island that is packed with superb tourist attractions. If you are looking for best places of Kerala luxury holidays, you are at the best place.

Well-Known Honeymoon-Specific Destinations in Kerala

Munnar: Endowed by sprawling lush greens, deep valleys, standalone hills, gushing river streams, and soothing and comfortable year-round climate, Munnar is a hill town that houses some of the best luxury hotels in Kerala. Lovingly nicknamed as the “Kashmir of Kerala”, Munnar has everything that makes it a small heaven. Connected with Wayanad, Thekkady, Idduki, Vagamon and some other green hill stations, Munnar is a house of beautiful wild sanctuary, aromatic spices and fresh coffee and tea plantations.

Kumarakom: Being the velvet of serene ambience and dark greens, Kumarakom is a tranquil land of your dreams. It houses the most magnificent backwater locations where couples engage houseboats to revitalize their romantic mood in green ambience. Starts from Kumarakom, the wonderful romantic cruise goes through Cochin, Kollam, Alleppey and Kasargod.

Kovalam: The “paradise of south” enjoys world’s best beaches beautified with glimmering sands, swaying palms, azure water and some fascinating shacks. When you step towards this cluster of beaches, it will drive you crazy and you won’t come back easily from there. Located just 1-hour drive away from Trivandrum, you can enjoy the life in full. You can also visit Kasargod, Alappuzha and Bypore in Kerala.

Best Season to Enjoy Honeymoon in Kerala

Different people will give you different opinions and it is not good to go with people. It depends upon you to choose best time. However, November to April is said to be the best time to visit the best honeymoon destinations in Kerala. This is so because you will enjoy cool and cozy climate during this period in Kerala. December to January is chilly duration for the state. So, backpack to Kerala by considering these facts.  

Bottom Line

When it comes to visit Kerala, there are lots of options to start your tour. When you look at all of them, you will get overwhelmed and confused. To sort out this confusion, the above mentioned places are best options to start. So, keep looking for the suitable package accordingly.