What To Do And See In Cochin, India

Cochin or Kochi is the fundamental flavor of Kerala, hence no vacation to Kerala is complete without a stop there. Kochi, also known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea,’ is a place that will blow your mind. It was a significant spice center of trade in 14th century India.  With so many interesting attractions in one city, you’ll have plenty of places to see on your journey there.

This list will assist you in prioritizing and choosing from among the top tourist attractions in Kochi for a one-day visit and air India booking will help you reach your destination. Scroll down and make your list of the things you wouldn’t want to miss.

Santa Cruz Basilica, Kochi

The Santa Cruz Basilica, one of India’s eight basilicas, was built by the Portuguese in 1505 and is one of the oldest and most popular tourist attractions in Kochi.   The church’s Gothic architecture, which dates back over 500 years, exudes magnificence thanks to its pastel-colored interior and historical artwork. Antonio Moscheni, an Italian painter, and his pupil De Gama of Bangalore were the driving forces behind this. Moscheni’s copy of Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’ is a must-see.

Willingdon Island

Willingdon Island, India’s largest man-made island, is one of the top Kochi tourist attractions for a relaxing vacation. The island, named for Lord Willingdon, serves as a crucial link between Fort Kochi and the city’s other airports. In this calm city of Kerala, you may stay in some of the top beach resorts and hotels in India.

Areekkal Waterfalls

Areekkal Waterfalls is one of the best sites to visit in Kochi, with its natural beauty of flowing waterfalls and verdant surroundings. The beauty of this waterfall, which is located in between the lush trees, is enhanced by the clean and captivating scenery surrounding it. The waterfall, which is adjacent to the major road, is easily accessible from any part of Kochi. This off-the-beaten-path location is great for those looking to get away from the city and spend a bit of time in nature.

Indo- Portuguese Museums

One of the city’s most well-known attractions is the Indo-Portuguese museums, which house a large collection of antiquities from several churches. The Indo-Portuguese Museum, which exhibits every stunning attraction and fact linked to Kerala’s artwork and history, is the ideal destination to see during your Kochi sightseeing. This museum preserves the Catholic community’s past in India, including garments, altarpieces, and other valuables.

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

Elephants have long been a part of Kerala’s culture and heritage. History stands as a testament to the good fortune of these animals since every event is highlighted by the appearance of these colossal creatures, which are organized according to proper rituals. There are numerous temples dedicated to the worship of elephants. One of the places to visit in Cochin is the elephant training center, where these elephants are trained and cared for.

Hill Palace

This is the ideal spot to go if you want to learn more about the lives of the kings and queens. The palace, which was once the residence of the Maharaja of Kochi but has since been turned into a museum, is stretched over 49 opulent buildings. Within this palace, there are artworks, weapons, manuscripts, paintings, and other objects used by royal families on exhibit (footwear is not allowed inside the main building of the palace). The gold-plated Crown is one of the palace’s most notable features. The name comes from the fact that it is situated on a hill.

Kochi, with its historic buildings, historical churches, beaches, and other tourist attractions, is unquestionably the ideal spot to spend your vacation. This place is truly diverse and you will have the chance to learn about the city’s history, heritage, and see the beautiful scenery by visiting these sightseeing spots. I believe that Kochi flights are now available from nearly every major country. It has never been easier for visitors to travel to this fascinating southern metropolis.

Himachal Pradesh Packages

Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

 

Shimla

You can visit many places in Himachal Pradesh, including Shimla. It is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and one of the most well-known hill stations in northern India. It was British India’s summer capital before independence. Because beautiful hills and mystical forest surround it, it makes for a great summer getaway. Shimla, one of India’s few planned cities, is home to many examples of vernacular architecture. It is also a popular tourist destination in Himachal and get the best experience from Himachal Pradesh Packages.

Places to See:

Christ Church, Town Hall and Ridge are the top attractions. Also, Jakhoo temple, Kali Bari Temple, Lakkar Bazaar (wood market), Ridge and the ice skating arena, which is the biggest in South Asia, are all must-sees. Shimla is known for its colonial buildings that are built in Tudor and Neo-Gothic architectural styles. You can also visit nearby cities like Kasauli and Naldehra as well as Tattapani, Tattapani, Tattapani, Narkanda, Mashobra and Tattapani. Kandaghat, Chail and Shimla are all popular tourist destinations and are among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. These tourist spots in Himachal are well-known for their tranquil and relaxing vacations.

Club Mahindra Kandaghat resort in Himachal Pradesh is located in the Himalayas. It is one of the most popular accommodation options in the region. The resort is spread over 14 acres of lush greenery with stunning sunset views.

Things to do:

The famous toy train, Kalka to Shimla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most popular places in Himachal Pradesh. Shimla has the largest outdoor ice-skating rink in South Asia and offers many adventure sports. Other activities include the Jakhoo temple trek, Banjar Valley trekking, forest camping and mountain biking. Check review!

The Best Time to Visit:

Shimla is best visited between April and June and December to January.

How to reach:

You can either travel to Shimla via the Chandigarh–Shimla highway or take a train to Kalka. Once there, you can either jump on a toy train or take a taxi to the local area. Kalka is approximately 90 km from Shimla. A helicopter service is available from Chandigarh and Shimla.

There are many resorts in Shimla that will suit your budget. However, Club Mahindra’s Naldehra Resort is an excellent option for families looking to spend a memorable time with their loved ones. You can still enjoy modern living without being surrounded by people at Naldehra resort, Himachal Pradesh. Pine forests and stunning Himalayan ranges surround it.

 

Manali

The hill station Manali is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy Himachal Pradesh’s natural beauty. With its snowcapped mountains and forests of high-altitude pine trees, Manali is an idyllic holiday spot to visit with your family. It is located between the PirPanjal-Dhauladhar ranges and attracts thousands of tourists each year.

Places to See:

There are many attractions in the city, including historical museums, Buddhist monasteries and famous temples. You can also find local restaurants and markets. Local shopping is a speciality of the Mall road, Thai market and Hong Kong market, and the Tibetan market and Dragon shopping complex. The stunning Solang Valley, Kullu Valley, and other vital locations near Manali are well worth visiting. Solang Valley is a popular spot for paragliding in summer and winter skiing in Himachal Pradesh. Kullu Valley is well-known for its festivals of Dussehra, Holi and Maha Devi Tirth Temple.

Things to do:

Manali has a variety of fishing spots along the rivers Tirthan and Beas. It is also home to trekking routes like Hampta Pass and Bhrigu Lake, DeoTibba Base Camp and Chanderkhani Pass. Rohtang Pass links the Lahaul-Kulu valleys. It is one of Manali’s most popular scenic spots. Manikaran is famous for its hot springs and Gurudwara. Rohtang Pass is also a popular spot for trekking expeditions in Himachal Pradesh.

The Best Time to Visit:

Manali is best visited between April and June and December to February.

How to reach:

Manali can be reached easily by road from Delhi or Chandigarh. Alternatively, you could fly up to Bhuntar and take a taxi. Manali is not connected by direct trains.

Stay at Club Mahindra Manali Resort in Himachal Pradesh if you want to spend a memorable time with your family.

 

Dharamshala

Dharamshala, which is famously known for being the home of His Holiness The Dalai Lama and the Tibetan community in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most popular tourist destinations to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It is located in the Dhauladhar Range, surrounded by thick cedar and deodar trees. It is a perfect combination of Tibetan culture and natural beauty, making it a great addition to any Himachal trip.

Places to See:

Mcleodganj and Bhagsunag falls are the top attractions close to Dharamshala. Also, you can visit Dharamkot and KunalPathri temples. The picturesque Rakkar is the largest Tibetan temple outside of the Tibet Tsuglagkhang complex.

Things to do:

Dharamshala provides many opportunities to explore Tibetan culture. There are many options for learning about Buddhism, exploring their historical and cultural heritage, or enjoying Tibetan cuisine. A one-day trek to Triund and camping are also options.

The Best Time to Visit:

Dharamshala’s best times to visit are between March and June and October to February.

How to reach:

You can either drive through Pathankot to reach Dharamshala or take a flight to Gaggal, 15 km away.

Club Mahindra is the best place to see the beauty of Dharamshala. Club Mahindra has many activities in Dharamshala, including trekking, camping, and adventure sport. The in-house restaurant serves local cuisines. The resort is fully equipped with modern amenities like Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, a bar, a lounge, and a bar. The resort offers spacious and comfortable rooms that allow families to unwind and have fun. These Club Mahindra reviews give you a glimpse of the opinions and experiences of members about their time at Club Mahindra resorts, Himachal Pradesh.

 

Spiti valley

Spiti, located in Himachal Pradesh’s north-eastern region, is a desert valley with cold temperatures and one of the most stunning places in Himachal Pradesh. It is often called “The Middle Land” because it lies between India and Tibet. It could even be called “The Middle Land” between India and Tibet.

Places to See:

One of the most important places to see in Himachal Pradesh is the Tabo Monastery and Key Monastery, located in Spiti Valley. It is also famous for its stunning lakes like Chandratal, Suraj Tal and Dhankar Lake.

Things to do:

The adventures of this region include trekking along the famous routes – Kaza-Ki-Kibber-Get-Kaza, Kaza-Langza-Hakim-Komic-Kaza, Kaza-Tabo-Sumdo-Nako, Kaza-Losar-Kunzum La, skiing and yak safari.

The Best Time to Visit:

Spiti Valley is best visited between May and September.

How to reach:

Spiti Valley is not connected to the rail or air networks due to its location in the middle of the mountains. Spiti valley can only be reached by road, which connects to both Shimla (and Manali)

Top 9 Places to Visit in Kashmir on your…

It is the honeymoon phase that every couple wants to enjoy after their wedding. Love is in the air, the pleasant climate, and looking into one another’s eyes. This is the ideal place for newlyweds who want to enjoy their love journey in the best natural beauty of India Kashmir. You can make priceless memories together in Kashmir by visiting beautiful places for your honeymoon.

Are you thinking of planning your Kashmiri honeymoon and looking for Kashmir Honeymoon Packages? This stunning land is the ideal place to start your love story. You can share many memorable moments in Kashmir together, as it is where your hearts are one. You can enjoy lovey-dovey rendezvous with the beautiful scenery of Kashmir.

Here are the Best Kashmir Honeymoon Destinations for Couples!

• Gulmarg
• Pahalgam
• Sonamarg
• Zanskar
• Patnitop
• Srinagar
• Bhaderwah
• Aru Valley
• Baramulla

 

These are the perfect places for couples to share their love in Kashmir’s most beautiful locations. Continue reading to discover the most beautiful places in Kashmir where you can celebrate your honeymoon. Take your lover with you to these beautiful places and create a memorable honeymoon album.

1) Gulmarg: Beautiful Gift of Nature

It is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places in Kashmir. The area is well-known for its beautiful natural wonders as well as its pleasant weather. Beautiful memories can be made for a lifetime. The hill station has a beautiful view of green meadows in summer and offers the opportunity to ski while taking in views of snow-capped mountains or frozen lakes during winter. Gondola Gulmarg offers everything you need to make your honeymoon unforgettable.

Gulmarg’s stunning landscapes will amaze you. They offer breathtaking views that will add an extra dimension to your romantic vacation. It is a beautiful place to honeymoon in Kashmir, with its snowcapped mountains and lush greenery.

Romantic things to do in Gulmarg:

• Enjoy Skiing.
• Relish the surrounding on snowboarding.
• Trek to Pir Panjal Range together.
• Try your hand at mountain biking.
• Observe Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve.
• Playing Golf with your partner.
• Enjoy a natural view by riding on Seven Springs.

Best Time to Visit Gulmarg: This destination is accessible throughout the year. You can see snow from October through March, while lush greenery is best from April through May.

 

2) Pahalgam: Scenery of Paradise

Pahalgam is the best place to experience Kashmir’s romantic vibes while on honeymoon. This beautiful hill station is perfect for holding hands and looking into one another. This idyllic vacation spot is where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of Betaab Valley and Aru Valley.

The hill station is filled with green meadows, greenery and stunning landscapes that will make you want to stay here for a while. Pahalgam has many tourist attractions that will keep you busy on your romantic journey. Baisaran and Tulian Lakes, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley and Shesh are just a few of the places you can enjoy a great time with your partner. The picturesque valley and the surrounding mountains make this a great place to have your honeymoon.

Romantic things to do in Pahalgam

• Enjoy camping under the sky.
• Relish the thrill with water rafting.
• Experience horse riding.
• Feel the Water waves by indulging in canoeing.
• Enjoy trekking together to indulge in adventure.
• Trout fishing at Lidder River.

Best Time to Visit Pahalgam: Pahalgam is best visited between March and November because of the pleasant climate for both outdoor activities and sightseeing.

 

 

3) Sonamarg- Meadows of Gold

Sonmarg is a romantic place to visit in Kashmir for a honeymoon. It boasts beautiful valleys and breathtaking lakes. On your Sonmarg vacation, you can fish for trout and see beautiful meadows. The stunning views from the tops of the meadows will be awe-inspiring, with beautiful lakes such as Gangabal, Vishansar and Krishnasar.

These lakes are a must-see on your honeymoon in Kashmir. Sonmarg’s Nilagard stream, which joins the Sind River, is an impressive feature that makes it stand out. It offers a breathtaking view that will amaze you and provide a wow factor. This is Baltal Valley, and you can explore this beautiful green water and frozen lakes. Does this sound interesting? Yes! You will be charmed by Sonmarg. These activities and other attractions make it a popular destination for honeymoons in Kashmir.

Romantic things to do in Sonmarg

• A pump adrenaline rush with white water rafting.
• Trek to Machoi Peak, Amarnath Peak, and Kolahoi Peak.
• Admire the natural surrounding.
• Explore the Lakes of Sonmarg.

Best Time to Visit Sonmarg: The best time to see Sonmarg and enjoy its beauty is between April and October

 

4) Zanskar- A Paradise for Nature Lovers and Adventurists

This beautiful semi-desert area is a great place to honeymoon in Kashmir. It’s surrounded by natural beauty and is a wonderful spot for couples. Zanskar is known for its beautiful landscapes and snowcapped mountains. This place is known for its ethereal beauty, Pensi La Pass and Zanskar River.

If you want to add a touch of adventure to your romantic trip, then you can not miss this destination as you will get numerous things to do in Zanskar that you can enjoy with your better half and make this Love-Dovey journey eventful.

 

Romantic things to do in Zanskar

• A walk to Main Market.
• Experience unique Frozen Trek.
• Feel the spirituality by Visiting Monasteries.
• Soak your Soul in the mesmerizing view of Sangam Point.

Best time to Visit Zanskar: Between June and September is the best time to be in Zanskar.

 

5) Patnitop- Behold the Beauty of Shivalik Range

Patnitop offers a mix of beautiful meadows and breathtaking views, as well as thrilling activities. There are many options to make your winter honeymoon in Patnitop unforgettable. This beautiful hill station is known for its skiing and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in Patnitop, this place has something to offer you.

The ancient Naag Mandir can be blessed, and you can also soak in spirituality. It is surrounded by lush forests, natural beauty, thriving green sceneries, making it a perfect destination for a honeymoon in Kashmir. You and your partner may be adventurous and want to experience the most beautiful moment in your life. You will fall in love with your partner when the beauty and perfection of nature surround you.

 

Romantic things to do in Patnitop

• Enjoy Birdwatching.
• Enthralling experience of skiing.
• Spend some time in Kud Park for greenery and flowers.
• Make eye contact in the air while enjoying paragliding.
• Trek together to make your bond stronger.
• Shopping together and collecting souvenirs.
• Enjoy scenic calmness through a nature walk.

 

Best Time to Visit Patnitop: October through February are the best months to enjoy Patnitop’s exceptional beauty and comfort.

 

6) Srinagar-Plunge into Captivating Beauty

Srinagar, a city nestled along the banks of the Jhelum River, offers the surreal beauty and tranquillity of nature that newlyweds can experience blissfully as they embark on a new chapter in their lives. This is a romantic destination in Kashmir that redefines romance and offers beauty everywhere. This trip allows you to see the most beautiful views of nature and take a ride on the charming Shikaras along the famous Nagin Lake or Dal Lake. There are so many things to do in Srinagar, from trekking to famous spots to visiting the magnificent Hazratbal Mosque.

It will be a joy to discover every detail and all the beauty scattered around. You will be amazed at the beauty of Shalimar Bagh and Shankaracharya Temple, Apple Orchards, Pari Mahal, Shankaracharya Temple, Shankaracharya Temple, Shankaracharya Temple, Shankaracharya Temple, Pari Mahil, Tulip Garden, as well as the migratory birds found in Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary. You can enjoy a romantic walk in the Mughal Garden with your partner after exploring Srinagar’s attractions. You can find adventure, shopping, and dining all within your reach here. To make this wonderful trip unforgettable, don’t forget to visit the old city monuments.

 

Romantic things to do in Srinagar

• Trek together to some famous points.
• Taste some popular local cuisines.
• Spend some time in an impressive houseboat.
• Feel the air with paragliding.
• Birdwatching At Manasbal Lake.
• Enjoy shopping and strolling in the local market.

Best Time to visit Srinagar: This beautiful spot can be visited throughout the year. You can visit the Valley between April and October to see its blossoms.

 

7) Bhaderwah-A Hub for Thrilling Activities

Bhaderwah, also known as Mini Kashmir, is a great place to honeymoon in Kashmir. This destination is a great place to plan your honeymoon. It’s surrounded by lush green landscapes, endless grasslands, and beautiful views.

The destination is located in the Himalayas foothills and boasts a variety of fauna and flora, dense forests, sparkling lakes and rocky terrain. Bhadergaw is a great place for newlyweds. It has something that will suit your needs perfectly. You should visit Seoj Meadow and Padri as part of your Kashmir honeymoon. Enjoy the fresh air and make your trip unforgettable.

Romantic things to do in Bhaderwah

• Trekking
• Rock Climbing
• Enjoy white water rafting and Kayaking in Neeru & Dondi streams.
• Camping in Panchtarni and Lidderwat.

Best time to visit Bhaderwah: Bhaderwah is best visited between March and November. If you wish to experience snowfall, however, your trip should be planned between November and April.

 

8) Aru Valley-Stunning Vistas

Aru Valley, which is located in the Anantnag region of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the most beautiful honeymoon spots. It reflects Jammu’s natural beauty at its finest. You will discover the beauty of Aru valley in many ways during your romantic trip. Its beauty is defined by its lush meadows, beautiful lakes, and majestic mountains.

It is one of the most romantic and beautiful places in Kashmir. The best thing to do in Aru Valley on a honeymoon is to trek to Tarsar Lake and Kolahoi Glacier. You will be able to enjoy breathtaking views and create unforgettable memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. It is a great place to honeymoon in Kashmir.

 

Romantic things to Do in Aru Valley

• Take horse rides.
• Enjoy a picnic.
• Skiing & Heliskiing.
• Capture some sweet moments by photography.
• Fishing together in the Aru River.
• Hold the hands of each other and enjoy sightseeing.

 

Best time to visit Aru Valley: July through September are the best months to see the sights and take a romantic trip to Aru Valley.

 

9) Baramulla- Experience Natural Endowments 

This is one of the most beautiful districts in Kashmir. It has a magical natural endowment that makes it a place where lovers will enjoy golden moments. This place is a must-see if you’re planning a honeymoon in Kashmir. A short drive from Uri can take you to a romantic picnic and allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Both of you can have a great time spotting birds at Manasbal Lake. You will also make memories that will last a lifetime. Honeymooners can review and capture Wular Lake’s breathtaking views, which is the largest freshwater lake in Asia. This place is a wonderful addition to your romantic getaway.

 

Romantic things to do in Baramulla

• Behold the beauty of Alpather Lake
• Get a spa therapy at
• Soak in the calm environment at Dal Lake
• Birdwatching

 

Best time to Visit Baramulla

Baramulla’s best time to visit is between April and July. However, if you’re interested in skiing, mark your attendance on the first winter days.

Conclusion:

Enjoy your honeymoon in Kashmir’s beautiful locations. These romantic and beautiful destinations offer the best of all: climate, sights, attractions, activities, and romantic moments. What are you waiting to do? You can plan your honeymoon in Kashmir and bring your bags to share a memorable experience with your partner.

Top Seven Places to See On Your Journey To…

Hugely traditional but impeccably surprising, India is one destination that is on the bucket list for every traveller at one point in time or another. They might travel to Agra to come face-to-face with the majestic Taj’s glory or wander around the royal and elaborate places around Rajasthan.

Some may even come to the country to explore Rishikesh and Darjeeling’s jaw-dropping landscapes or Goa’s picture-perfect beaches. India is also home to big cities, such as Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi, wherein each of them has its own distinctive personality.

In reality, it is almost impossible for you to get bored exploring the colourful streets, spectacular markets, and the temples of India’s most significant urban center.

One of the most challenging aspects of traveling to India is deciding what to see on this journey. Why? Because typically, you have a lot to explore.

So, regardless of whether you go on a luxe vacation or a simple backpacking trip, it is pivotal for you to be aware of some of the best places to see in India.

Let us address these places one by one.

 

Kashmir

‘Kashmir is one of India’s most incredible places and is a must-visit for the visitor,’ comments Stevie, a reviewer who wrote the best oster clippers review. 

Kashmir truly is a place known for its spectacular natural beauty and is indeed the Heaven on Earth. Given the lush green orchids, picturesque lakes, deodars and pine forests, verdant meadows, all enveloped with the Himalayan mountains and the Pri-Pangal ranges, Kashmir indeed look like a place out of a postcard.

The spectacular Kashmir valley attracts honeymooners, family vacationers, nature lovers, and even friends. In addition to its impeccable sightseeing opportunities, Kashmir also presents a bunch of adventure activities, such as skiing, trekking, and river rafting, along with recreational activities, such as angling and fishing, along with some spa and wellness activities. To enjoy all this and more, book Kashmir tour packages to enjoy all elements of this paradise. Food lovers and shopaholics will love Kashmir all the more because the place will spoil you with options.

Goa 

Goa is unarguably the party hub of India. It is truly one of the first places that most people decide to visit on their travel to India. A lot of young people in their twenties regularly travel to Goa for its beach shacks, immense variety in the booze, dirt cheap prices, and incredible nightlife.

The fact of the matter is, Goa is undoubtedly one of the best holiday destinations in India, and that is what will make your journey to Goa even more memorable.

Agra 

‘If there was only one symbol that could represent the whole of India, then it has to be the Taj,’ comments Farah, a reviewer with MyPlumbersChoice, who did the best no clog toilets review.

Well, the Taj is truly one monument, which easily inspires millions of tourists to pack their bags and visit the city. Many Indians visit the beautiful Taj almost every year. When here, you should wake up before dawn to experience the magnificent structure radiate during the sunrise.

However, in all honesty, Agra tops the list of best places to see in India for reasons, which go beyond this one of the world’s seven wonders.

This Uttar Pradesh city has a bunch of spectacular Mughal monuments, such as the Akbar’s Mausoleum and Itimad-ud-Dualah’s Tomb, decked into the magnificent inlaid marble designs from top to bottom. Furthermore, tourists can also explore another one of the best World Heritage Site – The Agra Fort. When this place is full of so many wonders in only one place, this city should certainly be on top of your list when traveling to India.

 

Ladakh 

Riding a bike to Ladakh along with your friends can feel like one of the most surreal experiences. However, be warned, this road trip will push the two of you to extreme mental and physical endurance limits.

If nothing, this trip will strengthen the bond between you two. Ladakh is home to several mesmerizing landscapes and beautiful terrains and is unquestionably one of the top places to see in India.

Rishikesh 

Known as the dazzling city, Rishikesh is one place, which truly has a lot on offer. Rishikesh is also known as the Yoganagari, that is, the Yoga Capital of the Country. This quaint city is famous for its sanctity, bountiful beauty, the multitude of adventure options, and several impeccable places to see,’ comments Stepheny, a reviewer who did the best fertilizers for citrus trees review.

Rishikesh is also called the ‘Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. The place is endowed with the Garhwal Himalayas and the holy Ganges. As one of the ancient Indian cities, it is truly a must-visit for people coming to India. Speaking about the places to see in and around the city, the city has a long list to keep the visitors busy.

It is also one of the best travel destinations for people who enjoy adventure and water sports. While here, do not miss out on river rafting, which is the most famous sport here. Surrounded with pious ghats, sacred temples, evergreen forests, and tranquil ashrams, this serene city truly has something for all kinds of travellers.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan is located in North-west India and borders Pakistan on its left. It is the home to the famed Thar desert. ‘Regardless of your interest in the Aravallis or the Rajput history, Rajasthan seems like a complete potpourri of flavours and is indeed one of the best places to see in India,’ points out Jessica, an educator who offers online CDR report writing. 

The Pink City, Jaipur, is Rajasthan’s capital city and is a great place to start your journey. It is home to mesmerizing architecture and has three forts, the spectacular City Palace, and several temples. When in Rajasthan, travel to Jodhpur, the Blue City, the Gateway to the Thar Desert, and is home to the Mehrangarh Fort.

Varanasi 

Varanasi is one of the oldest and the most persistently inhabited cities, not in India, but the whole world. It is also one of the holiest places in the country. Most of the spiritual activities here occur alongside the sacred river, the Ganges, where the pilgrims take a holy dip, and the mourners cremate their deceased relatives. Tourists will enjoy watching the Hindu chanting ceremonies, floral blessings floating on the river, and the sunrise boat rides.

Kerala – A personal travel experience in India

Travelling the world as a tourist can easily slip into a superficial affair of ticking off the highlights, skimming the surface of what’s available before moving on to the next location.

This isn’t how I like to travel.

Travel to me is about digging a little deeper. Staying a little longer. Not worrying about the tourist attractions that need ticking off a bucket list but actually engaging with the location you visit.

It’s the people, the culture and the reasons why things happened that fascinates me.

Kerala is one such location that easily fulfils my criteria for a fulfilling travel destination that invites its visitors to delve deeper.

There’s so much to see and do in Kerala but above all there is so much to feel, so many great people to enlighten you and colourful culture to experience.

With this more emotive experience in mind here’s a few of my highlights of Kerala. I recommend you look in to these in more detail and worry less about ticking boxes.

Understanding Kerala’s Culture

To understand Kerala is to look back in time and see the many influences that have travelling in from the farthest reaches of India and also overseas. Kerala’s success over the past thousand years brought traders and migrants from all over the world.

This mix of ethnicities and cultures created a unique mix you won’t find anywhere else.

Keep this in mind as we explore some of the best Cultural and historical highlights of Kerala

Kochi

For a sense of how human history from all over the world has influence Kerala culture I recommend you take a visit to Kochi, specifically the fort area too. 

All of the great trading nations of the past thousand years have influenced this area thanks to its prime location for trading by sea. The Dutch, British, Chinese, Arabs and Portuguese all created settlements here which can be seen in the architecture and layout of this very walkable area.

Within a short walking distance you can visit A Jewish Synagogue, a Dutch Palace and the oldest European Church in India at Church of St Francis. Its incredible to see so much history and human influence in one small area.

I’d also recommend walking along Fort Kochi Beach front at sunset where you’ll find plenty of locally run cafes and fishing nets readying for their next catch.

I highly recommend using the Ferry and exploring more if you haver the time. Its super cheap and

I recommend this area as you seem to soak up the atmosphere and almost feel transported back in time. The buildings, sounds, smells and even the way the light bounces off the man made structures gives you a very profound sense of what life has been like here for many hundreds of years.

Human By Nature

Take a look at this incredible video from Kerala Tourism for a brief look at how you can engage with Kerala tourism, people and culture.

Kathakali dance

While festivals and historic locations give you a sense of belonging to something greater, there is one symbol above all else which represents Kerala perfectly. Kathakali is a local art form that is now recognised by UNESCO for its cultural significance. Kathakali is a form of dance that originates in Kerala and is exquisite in its moves, something the dancers take an incredible amount of time and pride in perfecting. It can take 10 or more years to even come close to the perfection dancers seek.

Unlike other forms of dance Kathakali plays on facial expressions, with rich and colourful  makeup that can take hours to apply. Mahabharata and Ramayana are to notable stories played out through this classic dance medium. If you get the chance to see a performance I highly recommend it.

Ayurveda

Exploring Kerala can take a lot of effort but its ultimately rewarding not just physically but emotionally. Personally I like to end my days with something relaxing and that helps my body recover.  Ayurveda is the perfect remedy after a hard days sightseeing.

This unique massage treatment can be coupled with meditation to create a perfect way to unwind and also sample something local. For over 5000 years these health care techniques have evolved in to something special. While its possible you may have experienced practices like Ayurvedic and Yogasanas elsewhere in the world, they originated here and the authenticity and decades of experience will give you a more personal experience you’re unlikely to find elsewhere.

This is just a slice of what Kerala has to offer but I hope it gives you a sense of the culture, colour, beauty and history it has to offer.

This article was sponsored by Kerala Tourism. All opinions and recommendations in this article are my own.

Reasons to Visit Festival Fairs in Kerala

Kerala is a land of lush green nature, rich diversity, and festival fairs. Be it winter or monsoon, summer or spring, Kerala hosts breathtaking festival fairs all year-round. Vibrant colours, unique cuisine, old school traditions, classical folk dances, and soothing music are a few among the many must-have experiences in Kerala. The festival fairs accompanied by beaches, backwaters, and stunning mountain ranges make Kerala, also famously referred to as the ‘God’s own country,’ a must visit for special getaways and vacations such as holidays and honeymoon. One can find several Kerala tour packages and honeymoon packages offered by India’s top travel planners. Continuing on the subject, we present 5 reasons to visit festival fairs in Kerala.

Taste Rich and Authentic Kerala Cuisine

Kerala is famous for its cuisine, high in diversity and vastly different when compared to a typical South Indian or North Indian style cuisine. Dishes such as the Vishu kanji served during the Vishu festival and the AttukalPongala offered to the Goddess Attukal Devi during the month of February/March are native to the state and offer a window into the state’s culture through food. Kerala is also famous for its extensive use of coconut oil in food preparations giving a flavor that is unique to Kerala cuisine.

Witness India’s Ancient Kathakali Dance Form

Kathakali, the widely celebrated dance form of Kerala involves dramatic expressions, mime, extravagant costumes, and intricate dance movements. Inspired by Hindu mythology, Kathakali is believed to descend from folk art and temple performances. Famous festival fairs such as the Onam, MahaShivarathri, and Theyyam festival are famous for Kathakali dance performances and extravaganzas.

Partake in an Amalgamation of Devotion and Art

Kerala is famous for several ancient temples such as the SreePadmanabhaswamy Temple, AmbalapuzhaSree Krishna Temple, Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, and Guruvayur Temple. During the months of February till May, several temples in Kerala host grand festival fairs involving elaborate dance performances, fireworks and bejeweled elephants marching in the temple’s surroundings accompanied by drumming and more. Events such as these offer a chance to visit ancient temples while simultaneously experiencing the fun, culture, and spirituality that characterises temple festival fairs.

Watch Boat Races in the Beautiful Kerala Backwaters

Backwater rides are one of the topmost attractions of Kerala. The state is particularly famous for its boat festivals and races held in the backwaters between the months of July to September. The boat festivals enjoy great viewership as many people of Kerala visit the races to cheer for their favorite teams and celebrate the races. Nehru trophy, ChampakulamMoolam, and VallamKali are among the few top boat races in the state that you can check out as part of your Kerala trip package.

Celebrate Christmas the Kerala Way

Christmas is known to be one of the oldest festivals of the state dating back to nearly 15 centuries. Kerala is highly populated by orthodox Christians who celebrate Christmas on a scale equal to the Western nations. Colourful Christmas trees, busy cathedrals, Christmas mass, lip-smacking dishes such as the duck roast, Kallappam, and neerdosa are among the several highlights of this festival in Kerala.

Wrap Up

Kerala is one of the few unique places in India that can be visited throughout the year as the state is always bustling with activity such as festival fairs and boat races. This coastal state typically experiences a great influx of tourists during the Onam festival and monsoon. Visiting a state rich in festival fairs, culinary experiences, natural beauty, and art is made all the more unforgettable when you buy your Kerala tour packages from a reputable tour planner. You can also bag unbeatable savings on your Kerala tour, honeymoon, and holiday packages offered by India’s largest tour operators and travel planners when you take advantage of holiday and special promotions.