If you were to visit Kerala, what would be the first few aspects of your itinerary? A ride on a houseboat or a jeep safari to Munnar? Kerala is more than the serene backwaters and tea gardens. If you wish to unleash the avid adventurer in you, take a look at some of these non-touristy places in Kerala:
Unexplored Tourist Destinations Near Kerala:
Here’s our comprehensive guide to the unexplored tourist places Near Kerala for you and your friends.
Kissing the skies in Idukki district, Kerala.
1. Palkulamedu – Hill Station in Idukki Kerala:
This place is named after a pool situated at the top of the hill. Hence, the name – Palkulamedu, which means a pool with water rich in nutrients. Situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, India – this place is considered to be one of the most popular trekking destinations.
Palkulamedu. Photo: Madhu Thankappan
Closest railways stations: Kottayam, Ernakulam
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 2 hours from Kochi and one hour from Kottayam.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 4 hours (from the base of the trek and back)
2. Ramakkal Medu – A Beautiful Hill Station of Kerala:
This hill station in the Idukki district, Kerala, India is known for its panoramic beauty and windmills. One can even view the towns of Theni, Thevaram, Vaiga, and a few other places situated in Tamil Nadu from Ramakkal Medu. As the name suggests, this is said to be the place where Lord Rama had walked up to in search of his wife Sita, who was taken away by Ravana.
Closest railways stations: Kottayam, Ernakulam
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 2 hours from Kochi and one hour from Kottayam.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 6 hours (from the base of the trek and back)
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3. Chokramudi – One of The Highest Peaks of Munnar:
Situated approximately 16 km from Munnar, Kerala, India, this spot is truly a trekker’s paradise. The unique flora and cool breeze are bound to take your breath away.
Closest railways stations: Kottayam, Ernakulam
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 3 hours from Kochi and two hours from Kottayam.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 7 hours (from the bottom of the trek and back)
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4. Enthayar – Trekking Destination Near Idukki:
Enthayar is another trekking destination located in Idukki, Kerala, India. This trek through these forests is not only challenging but is a treat to all those who crave to understand the true essence and value of fresh spring water.
Closest railways stations: Kottayam, Ernakulam
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 2 hours from Kochi and one hour from Kottayam.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 4 hours (from the base of the trek and back)
5. Keezharkuthu Waterfalls – Popular Rainbow Waterfall in Idukki:
Ever seen a rainbow light up the water’s surface? Well, Keezharkuthu Waterfalls offer you that and more. The freshwater, flowing downhill, is bound to rejuvenate the tired soul in you. This place is also home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Closest railways stations: Kottayam, Ernakulam
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 2 hours from Kochi and one hour from Kottayam.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 4 hours (from the bottom of the trek and back)
6. Uravappara Temple:
Situated in Thodupuzha, Kerala, India, Uruvappara also houses a temple dedicated to Lord Subramaniam. This hilltop is said to have existed even during the days of the Pandavas. There are three boulders (large rocks) at the hilltop. One of the rocks was said to be used as a kitchen by the Pandavas. There is also a pool situated here. Legend says that when there was no water during prayer time, Bhima, the second Pandava warrior set his foot on the rock to create a pool.
Closest railways stations: Kottayam, Ernakulam
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 2 hours from Kochi and one hour from Kottayam.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 2 hours (from the base of the trek and back)
Means of transport up to the starting point: The above-mentioned places are situated in Kerala’s Idukki district. You could use your own vehicle, preferably a jeep or a bike, to head to the base of the trek. You could even board a bus to Idukki town or Thodupuzha town and then resort to another means of transport up to the base of the trek.
All the way to Northern Kerala
7. Paithalmala – Best Trekking Place in Kannur:
If you wish to find out more about Northern Kerala, this is one place that you ought to include in your to-do list. Paithalmala is situated in Kerala’s Kannur district. This area is nestled in the Kerala-Karnataka border, near the Kodagu forests. Paithal Mala is a photographer’s delight and is home to herds of wild elephants.
Means of transport up to the starting point: Own a vehicle, preferably a jeep or a bike. You could even board a bus to Kannur town and then resort to another means of transport up to the base of the trek.
Closest railway stations: Kannur, Payyanur, Kozhikode, and Thalassery.
Closest airport: Kozhikode International Airport, Karipur.
Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 4 hours from Kochi and 2 hours from Kozhikode.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 6 hours (from the base of the trek and back)
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Hills in the land of letters – Kottayam
8. Illickal Kallu – Best Hill Station in Kottayam:
This place derives its name from a rock situated above the Illickal Mala. Illickal Kallu is situated in Kerala’s Kottayam district.
Means of transport up to the starting point: Own a vehicle, preferably a jeep or a bike. You could even board a bus to Kottayam town and then resort to another means of transport up to the base of the trek.
Closest railways stations: Kottayam, Ernakulam
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 2 hours from Kochi and one hour from Kottayam town.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 4 hours (from the base of the trek and back)
The other side of Kerala’s cultural capital – Thrissur
9. Pattathipara Waterfalls – Best Waterfall in Thrissur:
These are a group of mesmerizing waterfalls in Thrissur district, Kerala. It is situated approximately 12 km away from Thrissur town. This is a three-tiered waterfall.
Means of transport up to the starting point: Own a vehicle, preferably a jeep or a bike. You could even board a bus to Thrissur town and then resort to another means of transport up to the base of the trek.
Closest railways stations: Thrissur, Ernakulam, Angamaly
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 2 hours from Kochi and 45 minutes from Thrissur town.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 4 hours (from the base of the trek and back)
The holy side of Kerala’s Ernakulam district
10. Kurisumudi:
Situated near Malayatoor, Ernakulam District, Kerala, Kurisumudi is said to be one of the most important Christain pilgrimage centers in Kerala. The hill is situated in the Western Ghats and is girdled partially by the Periyar River. Malayatoor derives its name from three words – Mala, which means hill; Aaru, which means river; Ooru, which means place. In short, it is a place where the hills meet the river.
Means of transport up to the starting point: Own a vehicle, preferably a jeep or a bike. You could even board a bus to Ernakulam town or Kolenchery and then resort to another means of transport up to the base of the trek.
Closest railways stations: Kottayam, Ernakulam
Closest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery.
Time taken to travel up to the base of the trek: Approximately 45 minutes from Kochi and one hour from Kottayam.
Total duration of the trek: Approximately 4 hours (to and fro)
Endnotes:
In conclusion, Kerala is undoubtedly a paradise for tourists with its lush greenery, serene backwaters, and stunning beaches. However, there are also many lesser-known places in and around Kerala that are worth exploring. From the tranquil hills of Palkulamedu to the mystical caves of Meghalaya, each destination offers a unique experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. So, if you’re looking to get off the beaten path and explore some hidden gems, be sure to consider these lesser-known places near Kerala for your next adventure.
FAQs on Unexplored Tourist Destinations in Kerala:
These unexplored places offer a variety of unique experiences such as lush greenery, serene backwaters, stunning beaches & mystical caves. They are also less crowded and offer a chance to explore the beauty of nature in peace.
These unexplored places can be easily reached by road or train from major cities in Kerala. Some may require a bit of additional travel, but the journey itself is part of the adventure.
Activities in these unexplored places range from trekking and camping to wildlife safaris and water sports. Visitors can also indulge in local cuisine, culture, and traditions to get a true taste of the region.
While traveling to any place always carries some risk, these unexplored places are generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to take necessary precautions and do proper research before visiting any destination.