Kerela
has always been a favourite tourist destination, and continued interest
has resulted in development of various activities for tourists to
enjoy. There is something here for everyone, be it fast paced action
that provides excitement to those who love the rush of adrenaline, or
the delight of exploring places.
Whether
you like wind rushing through your hair or water splashing all around
you, Kerela is your one-stop destination for excitement and adventure!
So let’s get right down to it and explore what this wonderful state has to offer.
Trekking and Camping
Do
you enjoy lying down on the grass, admiring the starlit sky as a gentle
breeze blows around you? (Let’s face it, which doesn’t?) Camping and
trekking spots in Kerela are diverse in what they have to offer, trips
to spice plantations, tropical rainforests, river banks, and even open
grasslands, there is no end to the variety one sees here. Here are some
top destinations you should keep in mind!
Agasthyakoodam, Thiruvananthapuram
At
1868m, this is the second highest peak in south India. It offers treks
through steep climbs, waterfalls and open grasslands. It is only 70km
away from Thiruvananthapuram, and is one of the prime destinations for
trekking.
Munnar, Idukki
Munnar
is probably best known for its huge tea estates, and eucalyptus
plantation. The trek through lush grasslands to the butterfly forest,
and then to Meesapulimala.
Rock Climbing
Push
yourself to the limit, and take it to the next level! Kerela’s
mountains, hills, and cliffs provide prime locations for the best
experiences of rock climbing.
Thenmala, Kollam
500m above the sea level, Thenmala is just 72 Km away from Thiruvananthapuram.
We recommend the Adventure Zone here, for a well-rounded experience of rock-climbing and rappelling.
Eruthavoor, Thiruvananthapuram
Due
to increased tourist activity, Eruthavoor is developing into the new
adventure hotspot. It boasts of a craggy rock 160ft. High. It’s
proximity to the main city Tiruvananthapuram is also one of the reasons
why it is famous.
Wildlife Safari
Now
here’s something for people who are animal-lovers and nature
enthusiasts. Owing to the tropical rainforests, Kerela is home to a wide
array of plants and animals. Its tropical forests boast of rich
biodiversity. With over 16 wildlife parks and five sanctuaries along the
westernghats in Kerela, one is spoilt for choice when it comes to the
perfect wildlife safari destination. Some of the best areas for a safari
include:-
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Tigers,
deers, wild boars, and a plethora of other animals can be sighted at
this sanctuary. Officially a project elephant site, this sanctuary
boasts of semi-evergreen forests that are home to a wide range of
animals.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki
Over
775 square kilometres in area, this sanctuary is an official tiger
reserve! It even has an artificial lake those acta as a watering hole
for animals, so it’s very likely that you will sight some majestic
beasts here.
Paragliding
If
you ever tire of watching animals and birds from a distance, it’s
always possible to get up close and personal with the feathery little
creatures that fly in the sky. With the wind in your hair and the world
at your feet, the exhilarating feeling in your stomach when you jump off
for paragliding is something that you just HAVE to experience!
At
nearly 6000ft above sea level, you can get a bird’s eye view of Kerela.
Paragliding season is at its best from September to January, and March
to May.
Vagamon, Kottayam
Kolahalamedu
hill proves to be the perfect platform for taking off on a paragliding
adventure. Just 4 km from Vagamon, the hill is over 3000ft. High. A 10km
ride offers a safe landing point as well.
Varkala Tiruvananthapuram
The
Varkala beach is just 50 km away from Thiruvananthapuram, and is an
excellent spot for paragliding. It offers a magnificent view of the
Kerela beach and the ocean beyond that!
Water Sports
Oh,
you didn’t think we were going to skip over this one did you? No way!
With numerous rivers, large stretches of river backwaters and so many
beaches, Kerela is a wonderland for watersport enthusiasts. Surfing,
rafting, canoeing, you name it!
Surfing at Kovalam, Thiruvanthapuram
Ever
since it’s become a popular tourist destination, Kovalam has been
teeming with surfing institutes and instructors. It is very easy to get
hold of a surfboard and even easier to get hold of an instructor! So,
for those of you who’ve always wanted to surf like they do in the
movies, but never had the opportunity, do try it out the next time you
plan a trip to Kerela. Even better, plan a trip to Kerela for the
numerous adventure sport activities that it has! The beach observes fine
waves of 0.5 to 2m height regularly.
Kayaking at Alappuzha
People
from Kerela have earned laurels at various levels for Kayaking. The
most famous spot for kayaking is in the backwaters of Alappuzha. It is
definitely THE location for you to enjoy the sport.
Rafting at Boothathankettu, Ernakulam
About
50km from Ernakulm, Boothathankettu is home to the perfect white water
rapids, and proves to be a memorable rafting experience. Navigating
through the steep waterfalls and quick currents, you will definitely
enjoy this experience, and the pictures will brighten up your photo
album.
Kerela
is a hot tourist destination for adventure sports. The next time you
plan a vacation, do consider the variety of sports offered in this
state. After all, a visit to Kerela is one thing on your bucket list
that you definitely want to complete.
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