Cochin Periyar Kumarakom Munmar
Cochin, Kerala
Highlights: Cochin , also known as Kochi, is Kerala's most cosmopolitan city. Over the years, it has been influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and British, as well as Chinese and Arab traders. Called "the Queen of the Arabian Sea", this ancient city spreads across the mainland and onto several islands. The Portuguese built some of
Cochin's finest buildings, particularly St Francis Church and the fort that dominating the entrance to the port area on Wellington Island. The Jewish quarter contains one of the world's oldest synagogues. Modern
Cochin, on mainland Ernakulum, has all the facilities you'd expect in a modern city.
If you're there mid-August to mid-September you'll find yourself in Kerala's most festive period, Onam. The exact dates of the 10-day festival vary but it marks the beginning of the harvest season. In legend Onam marks when the good-hearted and generous (demon) king Mahabali visits his subjects after he was pushed underground by Vamana (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). You'll see colorful and intricate floral carpets laid out on the ground to greet the king.
The spices grown in the state have been exported worldwide through
Cochin for centuries. It's also the home of Kathakali dance and probably some of the best fish dishes you've ever eaten.
When to Go: December to May. The monsoon showers peak between June and November.
Periyar, Kerala
Highlights: Set high in the ranges of the Western Ghats, in Kerala, is the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve.
When to Go: Best time to visit is from October to May. Post monsoon the season is near perfect, as the lake is full and the greenery lush but the insect life turns active, which can be a slight deterrent. Winter is great though the temperature can dip quite low. Summer is not too bad as the hills never get sweltering hot.
Kumarakom, Kerala
Highlights: The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and this small water world is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise.
When to Go: The peak tourist season is from November to March.
Munmar, Kerala
Highlights: Munnar is one of the most popular and nature rich tourist destinations in India. This hill-station was once the summer resort of the British in South India. Munnar is located 1600 meters above sea level and at the confluence of three mountain streams - Madrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala.
When to Go: Except the monsoon months that fall between June and September, Munnar can be visited the whole year through.