Things to Do in Kerala: Explore Backwaters, Culture & Nature

Kerala, often known as God’s Own Country, is one of India’s most beautiful destinations, offering a wonderful combination of nature, culture, wildlife, beaches, and traditional experiences. From peaceful backwaters to lush tea plantations, there are plenty of things to do in Kerala for every type of traveler.

One of the best ways to experience the region is by choosing Kerala Tour Packages that combine popular attractions with authentic local experiences. A traditional houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey is a must-do experience, offering travelers a peaceful way to enjoy Kerala’s scenic landscapes and village life.

Best Things to Do In Kerala - 

Backwaters Cruising

Seize Ayurveda

Grandeur of Kerala’s Temple Festival

Enjoy the Unique Kerala Food

Kathakali Performance

Snap Kochi's Fishing Nets and Historic Fort Kochi

Alluring Snake Boat Race

Take a Sojourn To Kerala’s Beaches

Go for Wildlife Watching and Nature

Travelers can also explore the charming hill station of Munnar, known for its rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, waterfalls, and pleasant climate. Thekkady offers opportunities to experience Kerala's wildlife and natural beauty, while Kochi combines colonial heritage, historic streets, traditional markets, and cultural attractions.

For travelers who want to explore more of southern India, a South India Tour with Kerala Backwater can combine Kerala with destinations in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. A Kerala Backwater Tour is also ideal for experiencing the region's unique houseboat journeys alongside its beaches, hill stations, temples, and cultural attractions.

Other popular things to do in Kerala include enjoying Ayurvedic wellness experiences, watching traditional Kathakali performances, exploring spice plantations, relaxing on Kovalam's beaches, and discovering local cuisine.

Key Travel Hubs & Landscapes

If you are planning a journey or exploring the geography of Kerala, the state seamlessly transitions from coastal plains to the high-altitude peaks of the Western Ghats: 

Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum): The capital city located in the deep south, known for its historic British colonial architecture and the monumental Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. 

Kochi (Cochin): A bustling port city blending history and modernity. It features historic Fort Kochi, centuries-old Chinese fishing nets, and serves as the main international gateway to the state. 

Alappuzha (Alleppey): The undisputed hub of the Kerala Backwaters. Visitors flock here to rent traditional kettuvallams (houseboats) to glide through calm, canopy-like waterways.

Munnar: A spectacular hill station nestled in the Western Ghats, blanketed by sprawling, manicured tea plantations and cool mountain air. 

Culture & Heritage

The local culture is deeply intertwined with its environment. The name Keralam itself translates to "land of coconuts," which reflects both the landscape and the local cuisine, where coconut, curry leaves, and local spices dominate almost every dish. 

Kerala is also the birthplace of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic medicine, making it a global capital for wellness retreats and therapeutic rejuvenation. The state’s artistic heritage is highly visual, defined by complex classical dance-dramas like Kathakali and the intense, ritualistic performance art known as Theyyam. 

State Overview

Official Language: Malayalam

Capital City: Thiruvananthapuram

Key Economy: Tourism, spice trade, agriculture, and remittances from a robust global diaspora (especially the Gulf corridor).

Latest Initiatives: Demonstrating progressive social governance, Kerala recently established India's first dedicated State Elderly Commission to protect senior citizens' rights.

Are you planning a vacation to Kerala, or are you researching its history, culture, or geography? Let me know what you are looking for so I can provide customized details, such as a travel itinerary, hotel options, or specific regional insights.

A South India tour with Kerala allows travelers to experience the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of southern India while enjoying Kerala's famous backwaters. With tailor-made itineraries, travelers can create a journey suited to their interests, duration, and preferred travel style.