Kerala is a state located in the southwest region of India, known for its beautiful beaches, backwaters, serene hill stations, and lush green landscapes. It is also known as “God’s Own Country” due to its abundant natural beauty. Kerala is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage, which is reflected in its art, music, dance forms, and cuisine. Some of the popular attractions in Kerala include the backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom, the hill stations of Munnar and Wayanad, and the wildlife sanctuaries of Periyar and Silent Valley. Kerala is also known for its Ayurvedic treatments and therapies, which are widely popular around the world. The state is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world who come to explore its natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful way of life.

Here are some important places and activities to explore in and around Kochi:

Hill Palace Museum Kochi: A museum situated in the suburbs of Kochi, which was once the official residence of the Maharaja of Kochi. It showcases a vast collection of archaeological and historic artifacts.

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica Fort Kochi: A beautiful church built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It features stunning gothic architecture and is a popular tourist attraction in Kochi.

Mattancherry Palace Kochi: Also known as the Dutch Palace, it was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch. The palace houses a museum that showcases exquisite murals, portraits, and artifacts.

Kerala Folklore Museum Kochi: A museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. It features a vast collection of traditional artifacts, costumes, and instruments.

Ernakulam Shiva Temple Kochi: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the heart of Kochi city.

Kerala Kathakali Centre: A cultural center that showcases the traditional dance form of Kerala, Kathakali. Visitors can watch live performances and learn about the history and significance of the dance form.

Marari Beach Alappuzha: A picturesque beach located in Alappuzha, about an hour’s drive from Kochi. It is known for its golden sand and clear waters and is a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing.

Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Ambalapuzha: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna located in Ambalapuzha, about an hour’s drive from Kochi. It is known for its delicious prasadam, a sweet milk pudding called “palpayasam.”

Krishnapuram Palace Kayamkulam: A palace built by the Travancore king in the 18th century, located about an hour’s drive from Kochi. It houses a museum that showcases ancient sculptures, paintings, and weapons.

St. Andrew’s Basilica, Arthunkal: A famous Catholic church located in Arthunkal, about an hour’s drive from Kochi. It is known for its annual feast, which attracts thousands of pilgrims.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A bird sanctuary located about an hour’s drive from Kochi, known for its diverse birdlife.

Pathiramanal Island: An island located in the backwaters of Kerala, about an hour’s drive from Kochi. It is a popular destination for birdwatching and boating.

Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Thekkady (Periyar): A cultural center located in Thekkady, about four hours’ drive from Kochi. It showcases the traditional martial art form of Kerala, Kalaripayattu, and the classical dance form of Kathakali.

Periyar National Park: A wildlife sanctuary located in Thekkady, about four hours’ drive from Kochi. It is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and wild boars.

Elephant Junction/Camp Thekkady: An elephant camp located in Thekkady, where visitors can interact with elephants and learn about their behavior and habits.

Pothamedu View Point Munnar: A viewpoint located in Munnar, about four hours’ drive from Kochi. It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations.

Tea Museum Munnar: The Tea Museum in Munnar is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the history and evolution of tea plantations in Munnar. It is located in the Nallathanni Estate and provides visitors with a glimpse into the process of tea production, from plucking the leaves to processing them. The museum also houses various artifacts and machinery used in the tea-making process.

Mattupetty Dam Munnar: Mattupetty Dam is a popular tourist spot located in Munnar. The dam is situated at an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level and is surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and dense forests. Visitors can take a boat ride on the reservoir and enjoy the serene surroundings. The dam is also a great spot for picnics and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Ayurveda Massage And Therapy: Ayurveda Massage and Therapy is an ancient form of healing that originated in India thousands of years ago. It is a holistic approach to healthcare that involves using natural herbs, oils, and massages to promote overall well-being. Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic treatments, which are widely popular around the world. Visitors can enjoy various types of massages and therapies that aim to relax the body, improve blood circulation, and promote overall health and wellness. The massages are performed by trained professionals using natural herbs and oils that are known for their healing properties.