Natural Beauty of Kerala
The natural beauty of Kerala, located on India’s beautiful Malabar Coast, appears to have been created by nature itself. With its pristine beaches, lush green landscapes, calm backwaters, and diverse wildlife, Kerala exemplifies nature’s artistry. This article delves into the amazing natural beauty of Kerala, sometimes known as “God’s Own Country.
Lush Greenery and Hill Stations
Kerala’s attraction stems from its beautiful scenery. The Western Ghats, a mountain region adjacent to India’s western coast, is home to several hill stations, including Munnar and Wayanad. Munnar, for example, is well-known for its expansive tea plantations, misty hills, and temperate environment, which provide a peaceful retreat from the rush and bustle of city life.
Wayanad, on the other hand, is famed for its dense woods, animals, and historic ruins, making it an ideal destination for adventurers and history aficionados alike.
Tranquil Backwaters
Kerala’s backwaters are another crown treasure, consisting of a network of interconnecting canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets. A houseboat ride on the backwaters is a must-do experience in Kerala, with stunning views of the surrounding greenery, rice paddies, and coconut groves.
Backwater cruises are popular in places like Alleppey and Kumarakom, where homes and towns along the water’s edge, allowing a rare opportunity to observe the local lifestyle firsthand.
Exquisite Beaches
Kovalam and Varkala are among the most well-known, with their golden dunes, crystal-clear waters, and palm palms that sway gently in the air. These beaches are not only for relaxing; they also provide a variety of water sports, making them excellent for adventurers.
Rich Wildlife
The state’s diversified ecosystems support the Natural Beauty of Kerala’s wide range of flora and fauna, which are protected by numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, for example, is home to elephants, tigers, and various other animals. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s dream, with many migratory birds visiting each year.
Experiencing the Monsoon
Kerala is particularly famous for its monsoon season, when the environment transforms into a lush, verdant paradise. The rains bring out the best in Kerala’s natural beauty, making it the perfect season to visit if you enjoy the rain.
The monsoon season also corresponds with various local festivals, providing an opportunity to experience the state’s cultural richness.
Silent Valley National Park
Silent Valley National Park is a magnificent area of tropical rainforest located in the Kundali Hills of Western Ghats. This pristine environment is a biodiversity hotspot, home to unique flora and fauna such as the lion-tailed macaque and Nilgiri langur, as well as a variety of unusual plant species. Its remoteness and conservation efforts have preserved its distinct environment, making it an intriguing destination for both nature lovers and scholars.
Athirappilly Waterfalls
Athirappilly Waterfalls, sometimes known as the “Niagara of India,” is Kerala’s largest and most well-known waterfall. It is located on the Chalakudy River and descends from a height of around 80 feet, providing a beautiful perspective.
The surrounding area is a wildlife refuge, and the drive to the falls through the lush countryside is as breathtaking as the falls themselves. It is a popular filming site and a must-see for visitors wishing to enjoy Kerala’s natural beauty.
Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake is well-known for its distinctive palm-shaped (octopus-shaped) waterbody, which stands out in Kerala’s landscape. The lake’s name, ‘Ashtamudi,’ means ‘eight coned’ in Malayalam, alluding to its many branches.
It serves as the entryway to Kerala’s backwaters and is well-known for its houseboat cruises, which provide a peaceful journey across the state’s waterways. The lake’s ecosystem is dynamic, sustaining a diverse range of aquatic life, while the surrounding scenery is calm.
Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake is the longest lake in India and the largest in Kerala. It is well known for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which draws crowds from all around the world.
The lake is the convergence of multiple rivers, resulting in a stunning watery network that supports a diverse environment.
Marari Beach
Marari Beach is a tranquil resort in the Alappuzha district, famed for its golden sands, crystal blue seas, and rows of coconut palms.
It is less congested than other beaches in Kerala, providing a tranquil and true view of the state’s coastline splendor. The beach is great for individuals who want to unwind, tan, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings away from the noise and bustle.
Neelakurinji Flowers in Munnar
Munnar is famed not just for its tea plantations and foggy hills, but also for the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom every twelve years. These purplish-blue flowers provide a stunning display on the hillsides, converting the environment into a bizarre, dreamlike blanket of blue.
The next blooming phase is a highly awaited event, gathering nature lovers and photographers from all over Natural Beauty of Kerala the world to experience this unique natural phenomenon.
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, located near the Periyar River, is a popular bird-watching location. Dr. Salim Ali, one of the most recognized ornithologists, classified this sanctuary as the most diverse bird habitat in peninsular India.
The sanctuary is home to approximately 300 bird species, including the uncommon crimson-throated barbet, sunbird, shrike, and black-winged kite. The lush tropical forest provides a tranquil setting for nature walks and birdwatching.
Edakkal Caves
The Edakkal Caves, located in the Wayanad area, are both a natural beauty and a historical marvel. These are not caves in the usual sense, but rather crevices formed when a section of rock splits away from the main body.
Inside, you’ll find Neolithic petroglyphs dating back as far as 6000 BC. The hike to the caverns provides stunning views of the surrounding area, while the caves themselves offer an intriguing peek into the region’s prehistoric past.
Athirappilly Waterfalls
Poovar Island is a unique find where the river, sea, and land meet to create breathtaking natural splendor. This unspoiled, secluded island is only reachable by boat, which adds to its untouched appeal.
The island is bordered by a gorgeous beach on one side and calm backwaters on Natural Beauty of Kerala on the other, as well as a dense forest of coconut trees. It’s an excellent choice for people wishing to escape to a tranquil, natural location away from the masses.
Anamudi Peak
Anamudi Peak, at 2,695 meters, is the highest point in the Western Ghats and South India. Located within the Eravikulam National Park, it is a popular trekking destination with spectacular views of the surrounding lush flora and hills.
The park is also home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, making it an important conservation site. The trek to the peak is a wonderful experience, with breathtaking views and the exhilaration of reaching South India’s highest point.
Kuruva Island
Kuruva Island is a protected river delta on the Kabini River, consisting of a cluster of islands spread across 950 acres of lush, evergreen forest. This isolated area of land is a peaceful picnic spot away from the city hubbub, where you may go bamboo rafting or simply walk through the lush forest. The island is noted for its unique flora and fauna, which includes rare birds, orchids, and herbs, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Each of these Kerala attractions provides a distinct glimpse into the state’s natural heritage, highlighting its various ecosystems, rich history, and magnificent vistas. Kerala’s abundance of natural treasures assures that every visit is packed with discovery, adventure, and an unmistakable connection to nature.
In Conclusion
Kerala’s natural beauty is unrivaled and has something for everyone. Whether it’s the quiet backwaters, the lush green hill stations, the beautiful beaches, or the diverse fauna, Kerala exemplifies the beauty that nature can bestow on a location. It is a site where one can truly experience the harmony between humans and nature, making it a must-see for everyone looking for a peaceful escape in nature’s embrace.