33 Places to Visit near Kochi (Cochin) within 100 kms (2024)

Beach | Lake & Backwater

Popularly known as the 'Venice of the East, Alappuzha or Alleppey is one of the best places to visit near Kochi, and among the must-include places in Kerala tour packages. It is about 63 km from Kochi, and 152 km from Trivandrum.

Along with Kumarakom, Alappuzha is among the most famous destination of Backwaters in Kerala. A houseboat cruise in these backwaters is a delightful experience. The never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees, shimmering water, and long canals around Alappuzha make it a delightful destination.

Alappuzha Beach, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Arthunkal Church, Mannarasala Temple, Chettikulangara Devi Temple, Mullakkal Temple, Champakulam, Kuttanad, and Krishnapuram Palace are some of the famous tourist places in Alleppey.

Alappuzha is also known for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race held on the Punnamada Lake on the second Saturday of August every year. This is the most popular of the boat races in India, and among the must-experience things to do as part of Alleppey tour.

Distance from Kochi: 63 Kms

Lake & Backwater

Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as the Queen of Vembanad, Kumarakom is the most famous places to visit near Trivandrum for Kerala backwaters, and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages. It is about 56 km from Kochi, 36 km from Alleppey, and 164 km from Trivandrum.

Kumarakom is a special tourism zone in Kerala due to the special ecology of the place. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumaramangalam Temple, Vaikom, Pathiramanal Island, Aranmula, and Erumeli are the popular tourist places in Kumarakom. The major sightseeing option at Kumarakom is a boat cruise in the backwaters of Vembanad and is an amazing experience for every traveler to Kumarakom.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuar is a noted bird sanctuary where one can see many species of migratory birds as part of Kumarakom packages. It is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. It is also famous for Ayurvedic massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing, and swimming. Kumarakom is the venue for Sree Narayana Jayanthi Boat Race held in September during Onam festival.

Distance from Kochi: 56 Kms

Waterfall

Athirapally Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in India and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages. It is situated about 73 km from Kochi, 100 km from Munnar, and 269 km from Trivandrum.

Formed over Chalakudy River, Athirapally is one of the scenic waterfalls in Kerala that drops down from a height of 80 feet through several parallel streams offering a great scenic beauty. In the monsoon season, the water gets strength and all the streams join together and appear like Niagara Falls.

The Vazhachal Waterfalls, Charpa Falls, Anakkayam, Sholayar Dam, Valparai, and Malayattur Wildlife Sanctuary are the nearby places to visit during your Athirapally trip. It also offers adventure activities like river rafting, trekking, etc. It is one of the best waterfalls near Kochi.

The forest that surrounds Athirapally Falls is also the natural habitat of different species like the great hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar grey hornbill, Indian grey hornbill, Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, and bison. The falls can be visited as part of Kochi tour packages.

Distance from Kochi: 70 Kms

Pilgrimage | Lake & Backwater | Nature & Scenic

Kottayam is a city located in central Kerala and is also the administrative capital of Kottayam district. It is one of the well known Kerala tourist places. About 63 km from Kochi and 155 km from Trivandrum, it is among the most prominent places to visit near Kochi.

Bounded by the Western Ghats on the east and the Vembanad Lake on the west, Kottayam is well known as a beautiful Kerala backwaters destination with stunning landscape and beauty. The city is an important trading center of spices and commercial crops, especially rubber. Kottayam holiday packages are a mix of scenic landscapes, backwaters, bird sanctuaries, temples, and churches.

The Poonjar Palace, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Pallippurathu Kavu, Thiruverpu Temple, Mary Church (Cheriyapally), and Thazhathangady Juma Masjid are the popular tourist places in Kottayam. It is also a gateway to the famous Sabarimala Temple. Kumarakom, the most famous backwater destination of Kerala is situated very close to Kottayam (13 km).

Distance from Kochi: 67 Kms

Historical & Heritage | Pilgrimage

Thrissur, also known as Trichur, is one of the famous places of pilgrimage in Kerala, and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages. Situated about 81 km from Kochi, and 279 km from Trivandrum, this is one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi & Coimbatore.

Thrissur is also known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala because of its cultural, spiritual, and religious leanings throughout history. Vadakkumnathan temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple and Paramekkavu temple, and Guruvayur Temple, Our Lady of Lourdes Syro-Malabar Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral, Thrissur Zoo, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, and Kerala Kalamandalam are the most popular tourist places in Thrissur.

Thrissur hosts the world-famous Thrissur Pooram, the most colorful and spectacular temple festival of Kerala. UNESCO has awarded Thrissur Pooram as the most spectacular festival event on the planet. It is one of the best experience things to do in Kerala as part of Thrissur packages. Thrissur is also the hometown of the great Hindu Saint, Adi Shankara.

Distance from Kochi: 81 Kms

Hill Station

Idukki is is one of the stunning places to visit near Kochi, and among the most prominent Kerala tourist places. It is situated about 47 km from Munnar, 105 km from Kochi, 239 km from Trivandrum, and 171 km from Madurai.

Idukki is the second-largest district in Kerala state (Painavu as headquarters). The name Idukki is supposed to be derived from the Malayalam word Idukku which means a narrow gorge. Periyar which is one of the largest rivers of Kerala, flowing through the Idukki gorge formed between the two high massive rocks called Kuravan and Kurathi, which is the site of the gigantic Idukki Arch Dam, among the must-visit places as part of Idukki packages. Idukki can be visited along with Munnar tour packages.

Idukki has a mix of diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation centers and mountain treks. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki Dam, Thommankuthu Waterfalls, Ramakalamedu, Kalvari Mount / Calvary Mount, Malankara Dam, and Ilaveezha Poonchira are some of the prominent tourist places in Idukki.

Distance from Kochi: 100 Kms

Waterfall

At a distance of 7 km from Athirapally & 75 km from Kochi, Vazhachal Waterfall is a breathtakingly beautiful waterfall situated very close to Athirapally - Valparai road. It is one of the popular tourist places in Athirapally.

Near the entrance of the Sholayar forest range, the waterfall is formed on Chalakkudy River at the lower stream of Athirapally Waterfalls. The surroundings of the waterfalls offer rich natural views. Unlike Athirapally Waterfalls, Vazhachal flows through an inclined slope of more than 300 feet to descend into a huge pool. It is very difficult and dangerous to step into the flow or to reach the bottom of the flow.

This waterfall became famous for not just its view but the endemic species found in the surrounding dense forests. Researchers have found four endangered species of the Hornbill here, the only place they thrive in the entire Western Ghats. Ornithologists attach great significance to this location and bird watchers can come across many rare and vibrant species in these parts as part of Athirapally packages.

Several private vehicles ply between Athirapally & Vazhachal falls.

Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Distance from Kochi: 77 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 27 km from Thrissur & 81 km from Kochi, Guruvayoor is a temple town well-known for the most famous Sri Krishna Temple. This is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites near Kochi, and among the must-visit places during Thrissur tour.

Guruvayur Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Lord Guruvayurappan, a four-armed form of the Lord Vishnu who is worshipped in the form of his avatar Krishna. According to the legends, the idol worshipped here is more than 5000 years old. But there are no historical records to establish it. Often referred to as Bhuloka Vaikunta, it is one of the most important places of worship for Hindus in Kerala and among the most prominent religious place to visit Thrissur.

The earliest temple records date back to the 17th century. In 1716, the Dutch raided Guruvayur, looted treasures, and set fire to the Western Gopuram, which was rebuilt in 1747. In 1766, Hyder Ali of Mysore captured Kozhikkode (Calicut) and then Guruvayur. He demanded 10,000 fanams in ransom to spare the temple. The ransom was paid but due to insecurity pilgrims receded. Later, in 1789 AD, Tippu destroyed the smaller shrines and set fire to the Temple, but it was saved due to timely rain. Tippu lost to the Travancore and the English in 1792. The idol, which had ...

Distance from Kochi: 81 Kms

Wildlife

At a distance of 5 km from Kumarakom Bus Station, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a protected reserve situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, this is one of the best places of wildlife in Kerala, and among the must-visit places during your Kumarakom trip.

Spread across 14 acres, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an amazing paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. It is one of the best sanctuaries near Kochi, the bird sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. In addition, visitors can get thrilled by the native kingfishers ablaze in psychedelic colours, experience a walk under rookeries of egrets and night herons or lone golden-backed woodpeckers and even delight in the acrobatics of the paradise fly-catchers.

Regarded as one of the must-visit places of sightseeing in Kumarakom, the sanctuary is accessible by road & boat from Kumarakom village. It has well-laid paths for moving around within the sanctuary (1-2 hours by foot). The best way to watch the birds is to take a 2-hour boat trip around the sanctuary through country boats available ...

Distance from Kochi: 52 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 11 Kms from Kottayam Railway Station, Mahadeva Temple located in Ettumanoor is one of the most celebrated Siva temples in Kerala. This is one of the popular tourist & pilgrimage sites to visit near Kottayam & Kochi.

This temple is known for its exceptional murals and woodcarvings made in 16th century. The themes of these murals are stills from the Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata and the and Puranas.The oil lamp at the entrance of the temple is believed to have been lighted for more than 450 years and it is fed with oil by the devotees everyday. There are 14 decorative gopuras in the temple built in 16th century.

Another attraction of the temple is Ezhara Punnana (golden elephants) donated to the temple by Maharaja of Travancore. The golden elephants are kept on display during the temple annual festival celebrated in the month of February / March. Only Hindus are allowed into this temple.

Ezharaponnaana Ezhunallathu is the main festival celebrated for 10 days in the month of Feb- Mar.

Timings: 4 AM to 12.30 PM & 5 PM to 8 PM.

Distance from Kochi: 58 Kms

Lake & Backwater | Nature & Scenic

Kuttanad is a region in Alappuzha district that is known as 'Rice Bowl of Kerala' for the vast paddy fields. With seven rivers flowing through it (Pampa, Manimala, Achencoil, Meenachil, Moovattupuzha, Chalackudy & Periyar), Kuttanad is breathtakingly beautiful. Kuttanad is also popular as an ideal place for Kerala backwaters trip in a houseboat. It is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi & Alappuzha. Kuttanad is one of the very few places in the world where farming is done below the sea level.

The most popular route taken to explore Kuttanad is the Alappuzha - Changanassery route. This road takes you through the heart of Kuttanad region demonstrating the daily life of people in the region. The possible activities for the tourists in this region are to visit villages and enjoy the daily life of villagers, walk along the rivers/streams and enjoy the nature or take a boat trip between villages.

Nedumudy (11 Kms from Alappuzha - near SH11), Kavalam (20 Kms from Alappuzha) & Champakkulam (13 Kms from Alappuzha - on SH11) are best places to experience the uniqueness of Kuttanad

Distance from Kochi: 75 Kms

Waterfall

At a distance of 20 km from Thodupuzha, 25 km from Idukki, and 48 km from Munnar, Thommankuthu is a mesmerizing waterfall located in Thodupuzha taluk in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is one of the stunning waterfalls near Kochi, ad among the must-visit places as part of Idukki tour packages.

Situated in the southern part of Western Ghats, Thomankoothu a series of 12 falls or kuthus (locally known) spread over an area of 5 km and fall from a height of 40 m. The 12 falls that vary in height and pass through the lush evergreen forests, present a remarkable sight. It is the best place to spend a day watching nature and drown in the waters of the falls.

The rich flora and fauna around the waterfall hypnotize the visitors. It is an alluring destination for trekking as it takes you through caves and sleepy hamlets of the tribals. There are also boating and fishing options available in the area and this gives one a great view of the valley. The visitors can enjoy a bath at the falls in summer, but not during the monsoon as the level of water increases.

Thommankuthu is one of the major centers of eco-tourism in Kerala, and among the prominent tourist spots in Idukki. This place is connected by bus from Munnar and Thodupuzha. There are no accommodation facilities available near ...

Distance from Kochi: 75 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 29 Kms from Kottayam, 35 Kms from Alappuzha & 33 kms from Pathanamthitta, Sri Vallabha Temple is located near Thiruvalla town (4 Kms) in Pathanamthitta district.

This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one among the 108 Diva Kshetrams in India. This temple is built in typical Kerala style of temple architecture with fine carvings and murals. The inner sanctum of the temple houses a 6 feet tall idol of Maha Vishnu. The flag staff of the temple is made out of granite and it is about 50 feet tall. A 3 feet idol of Garuda (the eagle vehicle of Lord Vishnu) is installed on top of the flagstaff.

This temple is famous for the traditional Kathakali performances almost every night and it is perhaps the only temple in Kerala where Kathakali is regularly performed as a ritual offering to a deity, after the evening Pooja

The annual festival of the temple is celebrated in Feb / Mar and the Utharaseeveli festival is celebrated for one day on Mar / Apr.

Distance from Kochi: 97 Kms

Lake & Backwater

At a distance of 22 km from Thrissur, Peechi Dam is a picturesque dam situated at Peechi village near Thrissur. It is one of the scenic tourist places in Thrissur.

Built across the Manali River, the Peechi Dam was built in 1959. Ikkanda Warrier (1890-1977), the first Prime Minister of the then independent state of Kochi, India, was the architect of Peechi Dam. The dam was started as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in the Thrissur district and caters to the drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City.

The dam has a catchment area of nearly 3,200 acres. There is a nice botanical garden with cascading fountains near the dam which is an added attraction to the visitors. One can go boating in the reservoir during Thrissur tour. Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary situated near the dam is worth paying a visit. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 84 Kms

Wildlife

At a distance of 23 km from Thrissur, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary located near Peechi village. It is one of the prominent places of wildlife in Kerala, and among the must-include places in Thrissur sightseeing tour.

Spread across 125 sq. km, the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1958. It is situated in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani Dams. It is part of the Palapilli-Nelliampathy forests and forms the northern boundary of the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary.

There are more than 50 species of orchids and medicinal plants in this sanctuary. There are 60 types of birds, 25 types of mammals, and 10 types of snakes in the sanctuary. The sanctuary provides shelter for Leopards, Tigers, Sambhar Deer, Elks, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer, Wild Dogs, Fox, Langurs, etc.

Peechi village is the entry point to the sanctuary. The Forest Department arranges trekking into the sanctuary and is recommended only for experienced trekkers. October to March is the best time to visit.

Bookings can be made at Wildlife Warden at Peechi (Ph: 0487-2699017).

Timings: 8 M - 5 PM

Distance from Kochi: 83 Kms

Lake & Backwater

At a distance of 36 Kms from Thrissur, Chimmony Dam (also known as Chimmini Dam) is a picturesque dam constructed across Chimmony Puzha. Located in Echippara village (2 Kms), near Varandarappilly town, the dam is surrounded by the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary.

Close to Peechi Dam and Mangalam Dam, the Chimmony Dam provided water supply for drinking and forming to the nearly by villages. Situated on Nelliyampathy slopes of Western Ghats, Chimmony Dam is a place with immense natural beauty. Boating is also available in the reservoir.

It can be reached via Varandarappilly & Palappilly from Thrissur. It has limited public transportation. Best way to reach the dam is to hire private vehicle from Varandarappilly.

Distance from Kochi: 80 Kms

Wildlife

At a distance of 34 Kms from Thrissur, Chimmony WLS is located in Echippara village, near Varandarappilly town. The sanctuary is spread around Chimmony Dam. This is one of the popular weekend getaways from Kochi and among the popular wildlife sanctuaries in India.

Established in 1958, the sanctuary is spread over 100 Sq. Kms on the Nelliyampathy slopes of Western Ghats. It is bordered with Peechi-Vazhahi Wildlife Sanctuary. The entry point into the sanctuary is at Echipara checkpost (guides can be hired at checkpost). Forest department organizes trekking programs - short (3 Hrs - Rs. 250), half-day (Rs. 400) & full-day (Rs. 800). Bamboo rafting is also offered from Inspection Bungalow (2 Hrs - 100 per person). Elephants, Sambar are most common fauna. There are 200 species of birds and 100 species of butterflies in the sanctuary.

Sanctuary timings are 6 AM to 6 PM. Overnight stay is allowed with prior permission. Basic accommodation is available at Inspection Bungalow. For all bookings, contact Wildlife Warden at Peechi (Ph: 0487-2699017). Best season to visit is Sep-Mar.

Distance from Kochi: 78 Kms

Beach

At a distance of 16 km from Alappuzha, Mararikulam Beach is a secluded little-known beach situated at Mararikulam village near Alappuzha. It is one of the most scenic beaches near Kochi, and among the top places of sightseeing in Alleppey.

This white sand beach is filled with several coconut trees providing a unique appearance to the beach. It is an ideal place for someone who wants to explore the backwaters of Kerala and relax amidst a peaceful environment. An evening stroll is one of the best hangouts here during your Alleppey trip. This beach is safe for swimming. Tourists can indulge themselves with Ayurvedic treats which are offered by Ayurvedic Massage Centre.

The beach is about 3 km from NH47 junction (called Mararikulam-Kalithattu Junction) before Kanjikkunzhi. The NH47 Junction is connected by frequent buses travelling between Alappuzha and Kochi. There are several homestay options just on the shores of the beach.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 52 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 38 km from Kochi & 36 Kms from Thrissur, Kodungallur, also known as Cranganore is a historical town located in Thrissur district on NH17 between Kochi and Kozhikode. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also an ideal getaway from Kochi for a short trip.

Kodungallur was the capital of Cheraman Perumal, the last Chera Ruler in the 7th century AD. Kodungallur is home for several important historical monuments:

- Bhagawati Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala with history of above 2000 years and was mentioned in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharatha
- Thomas the Apostle of Jesus is believed to have landed in Kodungallur with his followers in the year 52 AD. This place has become the earliest Syrian Christian centre of Malabar. Monuments built in the memory of Thomas still exist here, including St. Thomas Church.
- Cheraman Juma Masjid is the first mosque built in India in mid 6th century AD, by Malik Ibn Dinar, the follower of Prophet Muhammad
- A fort built by the Portuguese in 1523, which was later captured by Tipu Sultan of Mysore

Distance from Kochi: 32 Kms

Wildlife | Nature & Scenic

At a distance of 13 km from Kothamangalam, and 62 km from Kochi, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a protected area located at Thattekkad near Kochi, Kerala. Also known as Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, it is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India, and among the major places to visit as part of Kochi tour packages.

Spread across 25 Sq. km at the foothills of Western Ghats, the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary was established in 1983 and is the first bird sanctuary in Kerala. Lies across the Periyar River, this sanctuary owes much of its fame to Dr. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist. His famous survey of Travancore in the 1930s led to the formation of this modern-day paradise for avian life. This is one of the popular places to visit near Kochi.

The sanctuary is home to about 300 species of birds including Peninsular Bay Owl, Ceylon Frogmouth, Malabar Gray Hornbill, Crested Serpent Eagle, Rose-Billed Roller, etc. It also boasts of over 28 mammal species and over 9 species of reptiles. The place offers one of the best boating options in River Periyar. A brief ride on the river might take you close to cormorants, kingfishers, and many other birds, which feed off fish and other small creatures in the water.

There is a deer park inside the sanctuary. Adjacent to the deer park, the Taxidermic Museum showcases the natives ...

Distance from Kochi: 62 Kms

Lake & Backwater

At a distance of 40 km from Athirapally & 76 km from Kochi, Edamalayar Dam, also known as Idamalayar Dam located near Vadattupara is a picturesque location and one of the major reservoirs of Kerala.

The Dam is built across Edamalayar River which is merged into Periyar River. The forests around reservoir provide shelter for variety of wildlife. Edamalayar is a heaven for people interested in birding and trekking activities. You can find different species of birds in the forest around the reservoir.

Boating in the reservoir will leave a memorable experience.

Distance from Kochi: 69 Kms

Pilgrimage

At a distance of 39 Kms from Pathanamthitta & 10 kms from Thiruvalla, St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Church located in Niranam (popularly known as Niranam Valiyapally) is a parish under the Niranam Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. Founded by St. Thomas in 54 AD, this is one of the most ancient churches in the world. It also contains the mortal remains of St. Thomas.

The present structure was constructed in 1912, and later strengthened in the year 2000. Huge granite Cross, relics of St. Thomas, remains of the old church and the golden cross are the special attractions of the church. The feast of Assumption of St. Mary celebrated on Aug 15th and the Feast of Nativity of St. Mary celebrated on September 8th are important festival of the church. The Feast of St. Thomas on Dec 21st, the Feast of St. Behanan on Dec 27th and the Feasts of Marthoma II and Marthoma V on May10th are also celebrated in a grand manner here.

This place is connected by bus from Thiruvalla.

Distance from Kochi: 100 Kms

Beach

At a distance of 31 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Cherai Beach is a beautiful beach located in Cherai village. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also one of the top beaches in Kerala.

The 15 km of long golden beach is very clean, shallow, and famous attraction for swimming and sunbathing. This is one of the few places where we can see the lagoon and ocean separated only by a few hundreds of metres. The newly beautified 400 meters of the main beach has a walkway and high mask lamps which make the beach enjoyable even at night. The Beach is very safe and tourists of all age groups can enjoy the Beach alike.

The beautiful beach is studded with seashells of various hues and shapes. There is a park for children on the beach. Water Scooter and Speed Boats are also available. Dolphins are also spotted at this beach. The far end of the beach lined with Chinese fishing nets is a beautiful sight.

A tourism festival is celebrated in the month of December.

Distance from Kochi: 27 Kms

Historical & Heritage | Pilgrimage

At a distance of 20 Kms from Kottayam, St.Mary's Forane Church (also known as Martha Mariam Church) is located in Kuravilangad, on the way to Muvattupuzha.

Constructed in the year of 105 AD, this Church belongs to the diocese of Palai. It is believed that Mother Mary appeared to a few children in this area and asked them to build a church at the place from where a miraculous spring emerged, which exists even today. The church was built and a statue of the Virgin Mary carved from granite is installed here. A 48 feet single block granite cross is located in front of the church, which was erected around 1597. Three majestic bells of Kuravilangad were brought from Germany in 1911.

The main festival of the church called 'Moonnu Nompu', celebrated for 3 days in the month of xx. Thousands of devotees from all parts of Kerala participate in the festival.

Distance from Kochi: 53 Kms

Historical & Heritage

At a distance of 2 km from Erattupetta, and 41 km from Kottayam, Poonjar Palace is a 600 years old Palace situated at Poonjar village near Kottayam. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Kerala, and among the most famous tourist places in Kottayam.

The Poonjar Palace in Meenachil taluk was built by Poonjar Rajas and is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. The palace is entirely made out of wood, reflecting the traditional Kerala architecture. The palace is adorned with a fascinating collection of various types of furniture and antiques which includes grand chandeliers, jewelry boxes, statues, grain measurer, weapons, and palm leaf engravings. Tourists will also see a beautiful sculpture of Nataraja, a palanquin, and a thoni for Ayurvedic massages crafted out of a single piece of wood as part of Kottayam sightseeing packages.

The replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple nearby the Palace is another attraction. The walls of this temple have sculptures with warfare stories from the Puranas. However, the most fascinating thing here is the Chuttuvilakku (row of lamps) carved out on the stonewalls of the Sastha Temple nearby. But it is closed for visitors.

Distance from Kochi: 91 Kms

Waterfall

At a distance of 38 Kms from Munnar, the famous Cheeyappara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on Munnar to Kochi highway (NH49).

Cascading down in 7 steps, Cheeyappara Waterfalls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Kerala. This is also a great place for trekking. It is noted for 2 acres of evergreen forests upon a huge rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and an ideal spot for mountaineering.

The waterfalls are just adjacent to the highway. The falls offer spectacular views with full glory during summer and it's not possible to reach the bottom of the falls or enjoy in the waters of the falls in monsoon.

This place is connected by buses running between Munnar and Kochi.

Distance from Kochi: 81 Kms

Waterfall

At a distance of 39 Kms from Munnar, the magnificent Valara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on Munnar to Kochi highway (NH49), near Cheeyappara Waterfalls.

Valara features a chain of waterfalls falling from a height of about 1000 feet and provide a magnificent view. These waterfalls are surrounded by lush, dense forests that are home to a variety of animals and birds. It is one of the top waterfalls near Munnar.

Though the falls are visible from highway, it demands good amount of trekking to reach the bottom of the falls. The surrounding places of the Valara Falls are good for trekking. The falls offer spectacular views in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.

This place is connected by buses running between Munnar and Kochi.

Distance from Kochi: 82 Kms

Beach

At a distance of 4 km from Guruvayoor, and 32 km from Thrissur, Chavakkad Beach is a beautiful beach situated at Chavakkad near Guruvayoor. Lying on the coast of the Arabian Sea, it is one of the stunning beaches in Kerala, and among the top Thrissur tourist places.

Chavakkad Beach is known for its azure waters, clean sands, and serene environment. This famous beach spot is the only place in Trichur, where one can see the confluence of a river and sea, which is known as Azhimukam in Kerala. The beach is bordered by lovely coconut groves and palm trees.

From having a candlelight dinner at the beach to experiencing a romantic walk on the sizzling coastline of the Arabian Sea to a sun-kissed morning on the golden sands, the Chavakkad Beach has every reason to attract tourists as part of Thrissur sightseeing packages. It is a great place to swim and relax in a serene environment. The nearby lighthouse attracts frequent visitors as well. On the other side of the beach is Ramachapadam, a vast farmland of the Ayurvedic herb, Ramacham. The fish market available in the evening sees a huge crowd every day.

This beach does not have much commercial activity and less crowded. One can have complete privacy and enjoy the beauty of the beach. It is among the best picnic spots in Thrissur.

Timings: ...

Distance from Kochi: 78 Kms

Beach

At a distance of 24 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Nattika Beach is the place to experience the exotic beauty of the nature. Nattika is a wide and virgin beach blessed with an endless stretch of golden sand.

This picturesque place offers beach holidays and package tours. The resorts in the beaches provide all modern facilities. Prime attractions include ride on country boats, elephant rides, deep-sea fishing & beach games.

Distance from Kochi: 58 Kms

Beach

At a distance of 17 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Vatanappally Beach is among the beautiful Kerala beaches. It is situated on the coastal belt of Thrissur District.

It is an enchanting strip of golden sand laced with the rich greenery of coconut palms. Today, this calm and pleasant beach is a dreamy destination for many tourists.

This beach is close to NH17 between kochi and Kozhikode and connected by many bus services from Thrissur.

Distance from Kochi: 64 Kms

Hill Station | Nature & Scenic

At a distance of around 5 km from Idukki Bus Station, 53 km from Munnar, 107 km from Kochi & 130 km from Alappuzha, Painavu is a cute hill resort and also the headquarters of Idukki district. This is one of the popular weekend getaways from Munnar & Kochi.

Painavu is an important commercial center and a popular tourist hot spot in Idukki. At an altitude of 3,900 feet, Painavu is situated inside the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. It is also home to several State Government institutions such as Civil Station, and Government Engineering College, Idukki.

The place is popular for its pleasing ambience and picturesque location. This is a stopover for visitors, who travel to Idukki Arch Dam, Cheruthoni Dam and Kulamavu. Boats are available from here for cruises between Cheruthoni and Kulamavu. In winter and rainy seasons elephants can be spotted moving on the roads. Surrounded by pristine forests and green hills, Painavu is also a good trekking destination. Trekking in Painavu is said to be an outstanding experience and visitors can see many routes through the forests, plantations and to other small towns.

Painavu can be accessed easily by road as it is a 5 km from Idukki Bus station. Also, Painavu can be reached via water from Cheruthoni to Kulamavu junction. The closest railway stations are at Ernakulum (114 km) and Kottaym (98 km). The nearest international airport is at Cochin ...

Distance from Kochi: 99 Kms

Lake & Backwater

At a distance of 43 Kms from Idukki, 65 Kms from Kumarakom, 58 kms from Kottayam and 80 Kms from Munnar, Malankara Dam & Lake (in Idukki district) is a lovely place located at a distance of 7 Kms from Thodupuzha on Thodupuzha-Erattupetta route.

Malankara Lake, spread over 11 Kms is an artificial lake formed as part of Muvattupuzha Valley Irrigation Project. The Dam is constructed across Thodupuzha River for irrigation purpose. This place is a very good picnic spot with boating facilities in the lake.

It is located on SH8 and easily accessible from Thodupuzha by Bus, Auto & Cab. Thodupuzha is accessible by Bus from all parts of Kerala.

Thommankuthu Waterfalls is about 27 Kms from this place which is connected by Bus from Thodupuzha.

Distance from Kochi: 68 Kms

Waterfall

At a distance of 30 Kms from Idukki, 63 Kms from Munnar and 20 Kms from Thodupuzha, Keezharkuthu Waterfalls (also known as Rainbow Waterfalls) is a popular tourist sport near Idukki.

It is a cascading waterfalls falling through several steps from a height of over 1500 meters. It is also an ideal place for rock climbing & mountaineering. This place is good to visit throughout the year.

The falls are located in deep forest and can be reached by trekking through the forests for over 2 Kms.

Nearest town to the falls is Udambannoor, which is connected by Bus with Idukku, Munnar and Thodupuzha. From Udambannoor, the falls are about 6 Kms and there is approach road for about 4 Kms which can be reached by Jeep / Auto. The remaining 2 Kms is trek path.

Distance from Kochi: 89 Kms

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