Kerala is home to myriad incredible cities with one of the most prominent ones being the Queen of the Arabian Sea or as it is commonly called: Kochi. This amazing city has a lot to offer with its mesmerizing architecture and picturesque views and is, therefore, a must-visit. Additionally, you can purchase Kerala eco-friendly handicrafts and their infamous spices of Kerala. But do you know about all the marvelous spots near Kochi that you can visit? The biggest city in Kerala is certainly a sight to explore but for anyone who likes to go on the offbeat path and travel the road less taken, then this list of places to visit near Kochi is for you.
1. Thrissur
The district of Thrissur is truly an underrated treasure of Kerala. The serene waterfalls such as Athirappilly Waterfalls and the Vazhachal Falls will provide you with a sense of calm like you never imagined! For pilgrims, I have rather good news for you can seek homage in temples such as the Vadakkunnathan Temple, Kodungallar Bhagavati Temple, and the Guruvayur Temple. Moreover, you can also enjoy the various water and adventure parks here for an exhilarating experience at Thrissur.
2. Alleppey
When talking about Alleppey, the first thing that needs to go addressed is the breath-taking backwaters, the city’s charm. There you can also witness the exhilarating boat races that will keep you on the edge of your seats. But if you believe that that’s all Alleppey is, then you are yet to discover its entire beauty, an instance of which is the entrancing sunset at Pozhiyoram. The city’s temples will furthermore allow you to get in touch with your spiritual side.
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3. Kumarakom
When in Kumarakom, the first and foremost thing you must do is stay in a houseboat that has all the luxuries of a five-star hotel. For any bird-watching enthusiasts, you simply have to visit the city’s bird sanctuary! One of the most famous Ayurvedic centers here is the Maya Spa which will magically erase all your tensions in the world. Another invigorating thing to do there would be watching Kerala’s very own: Kathakali. Trekking enthusiasts need not be disappointed for the ultimate adventure awaits them at Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall.
4. Kuttanad
This secluded area is perfect for anyone who is looking to get away from the city’s busy life. Kuttanad truly has a lot to offer such as mountain bike tours which is a refreshing experience and is especially great as it passes through rural areas of Kuttanad allowing you to take in the entirety of the place. It is highly recommended to also try out kayaking at Kuttanad, taking you through a mesmerizing tour of the beautiful backwaters, the peaceful village. Moreover, you can wish on the canoe as well.
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5. Idukki
Another popular place that you must visit near Kochi is, Idukki. Firstly, you can visit either the Kulamavu Dam or the Idukki Arch Dam. You also must visit Hill View Park and as its name rightly suggests, the picturesque view is the cornerstone of this park. For the devotee in you, pay a visit to the Mangala Devi Temple. Another allure of this city is the Ayyapancoil Hanging Bridge which is the lowest hanging bridge in the state and people from all over the country come to marvel at the structure.
6. Cherai Beach
A perfect detour from the Queen of the Arabian Sea is the Princess of the Arabian Sea or as it is more commonly known: Cherai Beach. It is the perfect place to unwind, away from the city’s hectic lives. You can do just about anything here, from collecting seashells found in abundance here or trying out some of the popular activities here, such as sunbathing and swimming. Even a walk by the sandy shore is a rejuvenating experience.
7. Kottayam
Kottayam is one of the most prominent tourist destinations located near Kochi. To explore the natural scenic beauty of the place, the Marmala Waterfall and the Kattikkayam Waterfall are a must-visit. Kottayam is also home to a lot of really great museums such as the Bay Island Drift Museum. To awaken your spiritual being, pay a visit to the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Malliyoor Sri Maha Ganapati Temple, and the Tomb of Saint Alphonsa. The Mango Meadow Agricultural Theme Park is worth seeing.
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8. Kanyakumari
We come on to the destination most popularly known by us all for being the southernmost point of the entire country as well as its religious and holy importance as it is regarded as the home of the Virgin Goddess Kanyakumari. While here, some places that you simply have to check out are the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, the Thiruvalluvar Statue, and the Wandering Monk Museum, particularly great for anyone looking to learn more about the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.
All these places to visit near Kochi are so fascinating that one is bound to be confused as to which one to visit first for each shines in its own way. Being in Kerala is the true equivalent of being in paradise, after all, it is God’s Own Country and so you can never go wrong with the utopia that is Kerala. Share in the comments section below your experience of Kerala and which of these places would you like to explore next?
