Highlights
Backwaters
Take a trip to the beautiful backwaters of Kerala, comprising stunning lakes, lagoons and canals that run parallel to the Arabian Sea. It is no surprise that the backwaters are one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, boasting houseboat cruises that float effortlessly upon the tranquil waters. Visit Alappuzha, known as the ‘Venice of the East’, on a canal cruise - a truly great place to soak up both Keralan culture and nature.
Museums
Discover Kerala’s rich and fascinating history at one of the many museums in the region. Visit the brilliant Museum of History & Heritage, situated in a beautiful old building, which focuses on tracing Keralan history and culture through interactive audio-visual presentations and static displays. Among the exhibits are Iron Age implements, bronze and terracotta sculptures, dhulichitra (beautiful floor paintings), and recreations of traditional Keralan homes. Alternatively, take a trip to Napier Museum, housed in a captivating 1880 wooden building designed by the British architect, Robert Chisholm; explore alluring displays of eclectic bronzes, temple carts, ivory carvings and Buddhist sculptures.
Wildlife
Kerala is home to countless beautiful wild animals - including elephants, exotic birds and striking tigers - which can easily be seen from many of the brilliant sanctuaries dotted around the region. Take a trip to the 5-hectare Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary on Lake Vembanad, home to a large variety of native and migratory birds - visit from October to February to see travelling birds such as garganey teal, marsh harrier, osprey and steppey eagle, whilst from May to July is breeding season for local species including the Indian shag, pond herons, darters and egrets. A little further afield, discover the brilliant Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and the protected animals that thrive there - spot leopards, elephants, deer and the endangered grizzled giant squirrel on a truly brilliant day out.