Kerala Backwaters and Beyond: A Complete Guide to Kerala’s Hidden Treasures
Imagine gliding through calm waters with coconut trees whispering on both sides and fishermen tossing their nets like poetry in motion. That’s the charm of the Kerala backwaters—a slow, soulful escape from the noise of city life. But wait, machaa, there's more than just Alleppey houseboats and Kumarakom cruises. Let’s take a fun detour through the lesser-known hidden gems of Kerala that will blow your mind!
1. Poovar – Where River Kisses the Sea
Tucked away near Trivandrum, Poovar is like Kerala's secret love letter. The backwaters here are dreamy, but the golden sand beach that separates the river and the sea is next level. Hop on a local boat and let the breeze mess up your hair while you spot migratory birds and floating restaurants. Now that's what we call a vibe!
2. Kakkathuruthu – Island of Crows
Sounds spooky? Nah! It’s absolutely magical. Recognized by Nat Geo as one of the world’s most beautiful islands at sunset, Kakkathuruthu is a serene little piece of heaven in Alappuzha. With no vehicles or noise, it’s just you, the villagers, and the gentle sound of paddling through the Kerala backwaters. Pure bliss,da!
3. Ashtamudi – The Silent Superstar
Everyone talks about Alleppey, but true explorers know that Ashtamudi in Kollam is where the real action happens. The name literally means “eight braids” for its eight arms of water. It’s a hidden jackpot among Kerala tourist places, perfect for anyone who wants the backwater feel without the tourist crowd.
4. Munroe Island – The Untold Tale
Named after a British colonel (but don't hold that against it), Munroe Island is an interwoven maze of canals, coconut farms, and sleepy little homes. The morning village tour with locals explaining coir-making and toddy tapping? Chef’s kiss! If you’re craving raw, unfiltered Kerala life, this is where you land.
5. Beyond Backwaters – Vagamon and Gavi
Let’s ditch the water for a minute and head to the hills. Vagamon is a misty hill station with pine forests and rolling meadows that feel straight outta a Malayalam movie. And Gavi? It’s a part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and is one of the best tourist places in Kerala for spotting elephants on a morning drive. It’s rugged, it’s raw, and oh-so-real!
So, what’s the final word? Kerala is not just about the popular spots—there’s a whole world beyond the postcard scenes. From forgotten villages on the water to lush forests up the hills, the hidden treasures of God’s Own Country deserve a spot on your bucket list. These underrated places may not always make it to the top 10 places in Kerala, but trust us, they’re unforgettable.
So pack light, ditch the itinerary, and say yes to surprises. Because the real charm of Kerala lies in wandering off the map. Ithu thanne Kerala da!
