Must Visit Monsoon Destinations in Kerala

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When its monsoon time in India, Kerala is the first state to welcome the rain Gods and in few weeks Kerala transforms itself into a heavenly abode. Kerala has always remained among the top tourism destinations in India where couples and families spend quality time that they can hardly find when they are busy in their urban life. In fact, I would certainly recommend people to visit Kerala more than visiting the Taj Mahal, because here in Kerala you get to be close to the nature. I believe this is exactly why most people take break because they want to getaway from their hectic lifestyle and live few days in a different way where they explore nature and feel that they are a part of this universe that surrounds them. While some might argue here that visiting Kerala during monsoon time is not the right thing to do because heavy rain can play a spoilsport, but I believe that’s untamed nature and sometimes you got to experience and enjoy that part of nature as well. It is hard to write about the unlimited holiday options that one can find here, but we take a quick look at the must visit monsoon destinations in Kerala that can offer you value for money experience.
Kovalam

When you are in Kovalam you will find endless sight of coconut trees and that is exactly what Kovalam means in Malayalam, Grove of Coconut Trees. This beach town is not too far from the capital city Thiruvananthapuram ( I know it’s too hard to pronounce, but its pronounced as Thee-roo-va-nan-tha-poo-rum) and therefore it is easily accessible. Kovalam gets more visitors during winters, but very few know about its spectacular beauty during the monsoon. Here you can enjoy some long walks on the beach with your partner, enjoying fresh seafood with your family and some Ayurvedic massages that relieve your stress in minutes. Kovalam is also one of the best surfing spots in Kerala, but I won’t recommend that during heavy monsoon risking your life. Do visit the Lighthouse Beach when you are in Kovalam. If you have plans for Kovalam you can find many budget and luxury hotels close to the beach.

Alappuzha

Backwater tourism is highly popular in Kerala and Alappuzha is the capital of backwater tourism. Many travelers and international visitors visit Alappuzha to experience the backwaters of Kerala and to experience the ancient lifestyle that still sustains here. Alappuzha, the Venice of South India not only offers the best boat ride experience, but also provides best restaurants that serve the freshest seafood you can find in Kerala. Look out for Ayurvedic rejuvenation packages that can offer you some therapies and massages.

While backwater cruising is limited during monsoon you can enjoy Kumarakom bird sanctuary, boat races and many temple festivals which are best places to watch performing arts of Kerala like Kathakali, Thullal and Ottam. Don’t miss out Ambalapuzha festival where you get an opportunity to watch Velakali performing arts.

Ashtamudi

Ashtamudi is an ideal location for lazy travelers and monsoon is the right time when they can just sit back and enjoy the nature in its full glory. Ashtamudi gets its name from the octopus-shaped lake and serves as a gateway to the backwaters of Kerala. It is an ideal romantic spot for newlyweds and couples to enjoy the rain and some quality time. However, make sure you book your kettuvallams (houseboats) well in advanced because the number of houseboats and resorts are limited here. You can always shop some cashew and coir products that you can find cheap here.

Vagamon

Just 90 kilometers from Munnar, Vagamon is among the must visit monsoon destinations in Kerala. It might not be as popular as Munnar which takes all the credit,  but it offers value for money experience to many honeymooners. Better known as the Scotland of Asia, Vagamon is a charming hill station that offer tea gardens, lush green sloping hills, mesmerizing valleys and thick pine forests to leave you speechless. Vagamon is also popular for its spices. You can always find many budget and luxury hotels in Vagamon that suit your requirements and budget.

Munnar

One cannot take out Munnar from the top monsoon destinations in Kerala list even though heavy rains can sometimes ruin your holiday plans. It is also among the top monsoon destinations in India with the kind of natural beauty it offers. Munnar derives its name from three rivers Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundali rivers that meet here. This sleepy little town has been attracting tourists from all over the world with its pristine beauty, untouched natural landscape and pleasant climatic conditions. Visitors can enjoy the green stretch of tea and cardamom plantations. It’s the ideal destination for newlyweds, families, nature lovers and also for adventure lovers. Do visit the Eravikulam, Thattekad or Chinnar wildlife sanctuaries to explore the fauna and flora of this place. Tea lovers are going to enjoy the Tea Museum and learn about the history and process of brewing tea leaves. You can find many budget hotels and luxurious resorts here to suit your budget expenses.