One-Day Tour Places in Kerala: Your Ultimate Guide to a Quick Getaway
One Day Tour Places in Kerala
Kerala, the enchanting southern state of India, is renowned for its serene landscapes, lush greenery, backwaters, tranquil beaches, and picturesque hill stations. With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Kerala offers a wide range of destinations suitable for every type of traveler. Whether you have a day to spare or you’re just passing through, One-Day Tour Places in Kerala offers plenty of breathtaking destinations that can be explored within a single day.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top one-day tour places in Kerala, showcasing the diversity of the state’s attractions. From backwaters to beaches, hill stations, and wildlife sanctuaries, there’s something for everyone in this paradise.
We’ll also provide helpful information such as how to get there, what to do, and essential tips for making the most of your one-day trip in Kerala.
Why Kerala for a One-Day Tour?
Kerala’s compact size and well-connected transport network make it an ideal destination for quick getaways. Many of the state’s most iconic spots are easily accessible from major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, you can enjoy a fulfilling experience in a short span of time.
Here are some reasons why Kerala is perfect for one-day tours:
- Variety of Destinations: From tranquil backwaters to hill stations and beaches, Kerala offers diverse options for short trips.
- Proximity to Major Cities: Kerala’s top tourist spots are well-connected, making it easy to plan a quick getaway.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Along with natural beauty, Kerala offers an immersive cultural experience, with its temples, festivals, and local cuisine.
- Perfect for Nature Lovers: Kerala is a haven for nature lovers, with lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and picturesque landscapes.
Let’s explore some of the best one-day tour places in Kerala that you can visit to experience the magic of this beautiful state.
Best One-Day Tour Places in Kerala
1. Alleppey – The Venice of the East
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a prime destination for anyone visiting Kerala for a day. Famous for its mesmerizing backwaters, houseboats, and lush landscapes, Alleppey offers the perfect setting for a relaxing day trip.
What to Do:
- Backwater Cruise: A houseboat cruise on the serene backwaters of Alleppey is an unforgettable experience. Explore the narrow canals, lush coconut groves, and scenic villages.
- Alleppey Beach: Relax on the calm beach and enjoy the sunset.
- Vembanad Lake: Visit the scenic Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in India, and enjoy its peaceful surroundings.
How to Get There:
- By Road: Alleppey is approximately 70 km from Kochi and can be reached by a 1.5-hour drive.
- By Train: Alappuzha has a railway station well-connected to major cities in Kerala.
2. Munnar – The Hill Station Paradise
Munnar, known for its tea plantations, is a beautiful hill station located in the Western Ghats. A visit to Munnar offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of Kerala’s lowlands. The cool climate, lush green landscapes, and tea estates make it a great destination for a one-day tour.
What to Do:
- Tea Gardens Tour: Visit the lush tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process.
- Attukal Waterfalls: A scenic waterfall located amidst the hills, perfect for a short trek and nature walk.
- Mattupetty Dam: Enjoy boating and view the stunning surroundings of Mattupetty Dam and its reservoir.
How to Get There:
- By Road: Munnar is about 130 km from Kochi, taking around 4 hours by car.
- By Taxi: Hiring a taxi from Kochi or nearby towns is the best way to get to Munnar.
3. Kovalam – A Beach Lover’s Dream
Kovalam is one of Kerala’s most famous beaches, offering golden sands, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is a perfect destination for a one-day trip to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. If you’re looking to unwind by the beach, Kovalam is the place to be.
What to Do:
- Relax on Kovalam Beach: Spend time sunbathing, swimming, or taking a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
- Lighthouse Beach: Visit the iconic lighthouse on the beach and climb to the top for panoramic views.
- Ayurvedic Spa: Experience a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or spa session in one of the beach resorts.
How to Get There:
- By Road: Kovalam is 13 km from Trivandrum, and it takes around 30 minutes by car.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport.
4. Thekkady – Wildlife and Adventure
Located in the Idukki district of Kerala, Thekkady is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and its vibrant biodiversity. If you’re a nature lover and enjoy wildlife, Thekkady offers an enriching experience with a chance to spot tigers, elephants, and other exotic species.
What to Do:
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Take a boat ride in Periyar Lake and spot animals like elephants, wild boars, and birds.
- Spice Plantations Tour: Visit the spice plantations around Thekkady and learn about Kerala’s spice-growing heritage.
- Trekking: Thekkady offers various trekking trails through forests, giving you an adventurous experience.
How to Get There:
- By Road: Thekkady is approximately 155 km from Kochi and can be reached in 5 hours.
- By Train: Kottayam is the nearest railway station, about 114 km away from Thekkady.
5. Varkala – The Cliffside Beach Destination
Varkala is a unique destination where cliffs meet the sea. Located along the Arabian Sea coast, Varkala is known for its scenic beaches, cliff views, and ancient temples. It’s an ideal destination for a peaceful and picturesque one-day tour.
What to Do:
- Varkala Beach: Relax by the beautiful beach or indulge in water sports.
- Janardhana Swamy Temple: Visit this ancient temple situated near the beach.
- Cliff Walk: Take a leisurely walk along the cliffs and enjoy stunning views of the sea.
How to Get There:
- By Road: Varkala is 51 km from Trivandrum, which takes around 1.5 hours by car.
- By Train: Varkala has its own railway station with good connectivity to major cities.
6. Athirappilly – The Niagara of India
Athirappilly is known for its stunning waterfall, often referred to as the “Niagara of India.” Located in the Thrissur district, this waterfall is one of the largest in Kerala, and a visit here offers a unique experience of nature’s beauty.
What to Do:
- Athirappilly Waterfall: Explore the majestic waterfall and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Vazhachal Waterfall: A short drive from Athirappilly, this waterfall is equally beautiful and less crowded.
- Jungle Safari: Explore the forest area surrounding the waterfalls with a guided safari.
How to Get There:
- By Road: Athirappilly is about 70 km from Kochi and takes around 2 hours by car.
7. Wayanad – The Green Paradise
Wayanad, located in the Western Ghats, is known for its lush forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and breathtaking waterfalls. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway amidst nature, Wayanad is the ideal destination for a one-day tour.
What to Do:
- Edakkal Caves: Visit these prehistoric caves, famous for their ancient petroglyphs.
- Soochipara Waterfalls: Enjoy the beauty of the stunning waterfalls surrounded by greenery.
- Wildlife Spotting: If you’re lucky, you may spot wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and leopards in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
How to Get There:
- By Road: Wayanad is approximately 85 km from Kozhikode and 120 km from Kochi, and can be accessed via a 3-4 hour drive.
8. Kumarakom – Backwaters and Bird Sanctuary
Kumarakom is another popular destination located near Vembanad Lake. Known for its tranquil backwaters and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, it’s an excellent place to experience Kerala’s natural beauty in a relaxed setting.
What to Do:
- Backwater Cruise: Take a serene cruise along the Vembanad Lake and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Visit this sanctuary to spot migratory birds such as Siberian cranes and teals.
- Houseboat Ride: Experience the charm of Kerala’s backwaters by taking a houseboat ride.
How to Get There:
- By Road: Kumarakom is 15 km from Kottayam and can be reached in about 30 minutes by car.
- By Train: Kottayam Railway Station is the nearest major station.
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your One-Day Trip in Kerala
Kerala offers a wide range of destinations for anyone looking to experience its diverse beauty in just a day. Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, unwind by the beach, or explore the state’s rich culture, there’s a perfect spot for you. With well-connected transport options and various attractions close to major cities, Kerala makes for an ideal destination for a one-day tour.
