Title: 8 Famous Things to Do in Kerala for a Perfect Summer Getaway!

While the heat takes over much of India, Kerala stays cool, green, and inviting. Known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala has backwaters, scenic hill stations, rich wildlife, and centuries-old traditions. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or food, Kerala offers a diverse mix of experiences that make it a great summer destination.

Here are eight popular things to do in Kerala that can turn your trip to Kerala into a memorable experience. Let’s take a look at the highlights you shouldn’t miss on your next visit.

Cruise the Backwaters of Alleppey

A houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey is one of the must-do experiences in Kerala. As you drift through a network of canals, past paddy fields and quiet villages, you get a glimpse of everyday life at a slower, more peaceful pace.

These traditional houseboats, once known as kettuvallams, now serve as floating homes, complete with comfortable bedrooms, open-air lounges, and onboard kitchens where fresh Kerala-style meals are prepared. Along the way, you might see locals washing clothes by the river or children paddling to school. A ride through these backwaters is a classic example of slow, immersive travel.

Enjoy a Jeep Safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady

If you want to experience Kerala’s wildlife up close, Thekkady is the place to be. Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of India’s best-preserved natural reserves, it offers a chance to see elephants, wild boar, sambar deer, and even the elusive tiger in their natural habitat.

One of the top things to do in Thekkady is a boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you can often spot herds of elephants along the shore. Don’t miss a visit to the local spice plantations, where cardamom, pepper, and vanilla are grown. For a more adventurous experience, try bamboo rafting or guided jungle treks through the forest which is a great way to explore the raw, untamed side of Kerala.

 Explore the Tea-Scented Hills of Munnar

Surrounded by sprawling tea plantations, Munnar is a scenic hill station in Kerala and one of the top summer holiday spots in South India. Located at an altitude of 1,600 meters, it offers cool mountain air and scenic views.

You can walk through the tea-covered hills, visit local factories to see how tea is made, and taste a variety of local blends. Guided plantation tours are often included in Kerala packages and are one of the best ways to experience Munnar’s tea culture up close. For those who enjoy hiking, a trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India, is a rewarding experience. Nature lovers can spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park. And no visit to Munnar is complete without stopping by the Tea Museum, where you can learn about the area’s rich tea heritage.

Rejuvenate with Authentic Ayurvedic Therapies

 Kerala is considered the birthplace of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old system of natural healing that uses herbs, oils, and treatments to restore balance in the body. According to Ayurvedic tradition, summer is an ideal time for detox and rejuvenation.

Unlike a typical spa visit, Ayurvedic therapies focus on holistic wellness. You can visit dedicated wellness resorts or Ayurvedic centers in places like Kumarakom and Kovalam, where treatments such as Abhyanga (oil massage), Shirodhara (steady oil drip on the forehead), and Panchakarma (a full-body cleansing process) are offered. These therapies are designed to leave you truly refreshed, both physically and mentally.

Enjoy the Sun and Sea in Kovalam Beach

 It is about 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram, and Kovalam is one of the best-known beach destinations in Kerala. Its peculiar crescent-shaped beaches– Lighthouse, Hawa and Samudra are idyllic for sunbathing, swimming and water sports.

The Kovalam Lighthouse is great for views of the coastline, and the promenade has seafood shacks, yoga centres, and souvenir shops. If you are in search of some tropical beach fun that is calming enough but playful enough, Kovalam has got you covered and can be your go-to summer destination.

Marvel at the Culture in Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is where Kerala’s colonial past meets its modern, multicultural identity. You can explore streets lined with Dutch, Portuguese, and British-era buildings, browse through art galleries, antique shops, and cafés, and see the famous Chinese fishing nets in action.

Be sure to attend a Kathakali performance, a traditional art form that combines storytelling, dance, and elaborate makeup. You can also watch a Kalaripayattu show, an ancient martial art known for its speed, precision, and fluid movements.

Party with the Local Flavours in a Sadya Feast

Kerala’s cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition, and one of the best ways to experience it is through a Sadya, a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, especially during festivals like Onam and Vishu.

A typical Sadya includes over twenty dishes, such as sambar, avial, thoran, payasam, and crispy papadum. It’s more than just a meal, it’s a cultural experience. Don’t forget to finish it off with a glass of spiced buttermilk, perfect for cooling down after the feast.

Conclusion: Kerala is not a destination; it is a feeling. This summer, when the plains are too hot and the cities too crowded, let Kerala be your way into peace and relaxation. Whether you are cruising through Alleppey’s backwaters, exploring the elephant’s land in Thekkady, or savouring tea up in Munnar’s highlands, a magical pulse to life here lives with you well after the adventure is over. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Kerala.

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