Things to do in Kerala

Few people associate Kerala with mountains, the Himalayas monopolising the western desire for elevated landscapes. Although they may not appeal to the serious explorers out there, the Western Ghats range is rapturous for most ramblers. And mountain bike riders. All in all, The Ghats are one of the best things to do in Kerala. Named as one of the world’s Biodiversity Hotspots, it’s a daily festival of flora and fauna here. And no snow either in winter. A good starting point is the town of Munnar, with the backdrop of Anamudi, Kerala's highest peak at 2,695m. Hike or bike through tea and coffee plantations, such as the world’s highest tea estate at Kolukumalai as well as to hillstations, which were built as summer retreats by the British colonial powers to cool down from the summer heat. Escape to tourist free hideaways on trails through high altitude grasslands and, in delightful contrast, montaine rainforest (known as sholas), such as the Silent Valley National Park with its ascent up to Meesapulimala peak. The other advantage of enjoying the elevated landscapes of Kerala is that the lowlands, with their cooling backwaters and then coastal treats, are all downhill and never too far away.  

A ritual form of worship undertaken by men in northern Kerala. Unlike the more well-known dance, Kathakali, this is not a performance, but a truly spiritual experience. A colourful ritual, with men besporting costume and makeup, it focuses on the worship of heroes and ancestral spirits. Although it was performed by men of the lower caste, this trance like ritual equalized everyone. It happens in festivals, or at more intimate local shrines. Best go with your tour operator in a small group.