Top Entrancing Things to Do in Kerala India

1. Houseboat Experience

Experiencing backwaters while staying on a houseboat is touted to be one of the most romantic places in Kerala. Ride the backwaters as you sip tasty masala tea on your luxurious houseboat. Among the houseboat experiences across the state, Alleppey tops the list with its lush green landscape and tranquil backwaters. You can also watch traditional performances, enjoy fishing, and savor the freshly cooked food by the in-house cook onboard. Different types of houseboats are available to cater to diverse budgets and preferences.

2. Watch a Kathakali Performance

The most beautiful dance form in Kerala, the Kathakali dance, is exceptionally colorful and vibrant. Dancers decked up in colorful costumes perform folktales amidst loud drums. You won’t see performers dressed this way across the world. These beautiful performances usually take place at night, and you can witness the stories of passion and lust in a traditional way. It is believed that this century-old dance form originated from a rivalry between two kings.

3. Witness Elephant Activities in Kodanad

Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary is a famous tourist place in Kerala. This major attraction in Kerala is 42 kilometers from Kochi, where you can witness and participate in various activities involving elephants under the guidance and watchful eyes of the trainers. You can view elephants bathing and feeding, and watching the playful baby elephants. Different activities have different rates based on the timing of your visit and the activities you want to do.

4. Watch the Kalarippayattu Performance

This ancient traditional form of martial arts originated and is practiced in Kerala. Featuring kicks, grappling, healing methods, weaponry, and strikes. The dangerous performances of firefighting and sword fights are spellbinding. Though it looks risky, their sheer practice and years of experience make them perfect for both attacking and blocking the sharp weapons. View these amazing performances for a very nominal fee.

5. Experience Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village for a Day

If you are looking for a rural and authentic experience of village life, then visit the Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village. From local paddy cultivation to crab farming, fishing, and mangrove canoeing, you can experience everything firsthand. Many dwellings in the village offer homestays at a nominal charge and can be booked by visitors. Fourteen kilometers from Ernakulam, experience a beautiful village experience.

6. Get an Ayurvedic Massage

This traditional Indian healing system has been practiced for more than 5,000 years. Kerala is abundantly blessed with herbs and medicinal plants. These plants are used to make special oils for different massage treatments. Whether it is a simple message or a treatment for some disorder, Kerala Ayurveda has an answer to almost everything.

7. Take a Spice Tour

Know your herbs and spices better by taking a tour of the spice garden in Munnar, Wayanad, or Thekkady. Most of the spice gardens have a nominal fee, and an experienced person will take you through the spice garden. Taste fresh black pepper, exotic vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, etc. Tourists are astonished to see the different varieties of plants that grow in these gardens and pack quite a few of them to take along.

8. Take an Elephant Ride

You can ride these majestic beasts in Kerala, decked up in beautiful colors. No experience can match a beautiful countryside tour on an elephant. Explore the banks of the Bharathapuza River or ride deep into the forests on an exciting safari experience.

9. Stay in a Tree House

Stay in a tree house in Kerala and enjoy a fairy tale experience. Made from natural materials such as bamboo, living in a treehouse is one-of-a-kind experience. Open the windows of the treehouse and have a fantastic view of the lush green trees and beautiful birds. With the sounds of birds chirping, it’s a unique way to connect with nature.

10. View beautiful reptiles in Parassinikkadavu Snake Park

Though creepy, these crawling snakes never fail to fascinate everyone, be it a child or an adult, especially when kept safely in a glass enclosure. Visit the Parassinikkadavu Snake Park to view some of the most dangerous yet beautiful snakes. There are various venomous and non-venomous snakes of varied colors and sizes. The king cobra is a must-see in this Parassinikkadavu Snake Park.

11. Stay at Kalamachal for your Romantic Us Time

Kalamachal, a scenic hill station on the banks of the Vamanapuram River, is bordered by lush greenery and calm surroundings. If you want to spend time with your loved ones or just relax, then Kalamachal is your place. This little-known destination in Kerala is perfect for those special moments or the much-needed breaks where you would want to be left alone. With places as dramatic and romantic as Kalamachal, it is no wonder that Kerala is one of the best honeymoon places in India.

12. Join a Cooking Lesson

Known for its delicious coconut-flavored meals and amazingly fresh seafood, you can take a cooking lesson and learn how a mouthwatering dish is prepared. With a whole range of options to choose from, you can choose proper residential curries or casual meals.

13. Watch the Adrenaline-Filled Snake Boat Race

Every year during the monsoon, Kerala comes alive with the snake boat race, where participants take their colorful boats to race with each other. Amidst drums and noises, the Snake Boat Race is the venue to capture the real essence of Kerala. Boats that are typically 100 to 120 feet long are rowed by around 100 rowers each. Every village in Kerala has its own snake boats, and they come together for a race that’s both fun-filled and enthusiastic.

14. Taste Toddy, Get High on Life

An intoxicating coconut drink made naturally, Toddy is an important drink in Kerala and part of the state’s tradition. The slow-acting liquor tastes lovely and is known for its amazing kick. Made from the dap of palm trees, these are also served in small pouches at small thatched shops.

15. Take a Boat Ride of Periyar Sanctuary

Take a ride to Periyar Sanctuary and enjoy the views of different animals and birds from the safety of a boat. Deer, bears, otters, and other beautiful birds are often seen here. The first and last tour offers the best chance of spotting wildlife in the sanctuary. This 1-hour, 30-minutes ride will leave behind the hustle and bustle of city life and help you soak in the beauty of nature.