Kerala, India * The Backwaters *

Kerala, one of my favorite destinations in India.  I have been there several times and keep coming back.   Kerala is nicknamed, “God's Own Country” and you can see why when you arrive in Kerala.  Well-known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and world famous backwaters.  The backwaters in Kerala are lagoons and lakes parallel to the Arabian Sea.  The backwaters are also quite popular for boat races.

Kerala is blessed with unmatched beauty and attractions among which the backwaters are a favorite and must do when you come.  Kerala backwaters have greatly helped in the boom of Kerala tourism industry.  For more information on Kerala, check out my previous postings on this site :-)

In this heavenly state of India, there are many picturesque backwater destinations among which Kumarakom, Alleppey, Cochin, Kuttanad, Kovalam, Kollam, Kottayam and Kasargod are very popular among tourists and are the prime backwater destinations in Kerala.   Holidays in Kerala are incomplete without enjoying a houseboat over the beautiful backwaters.  The houseboats come with a chef on board to serve you all your meals, so sit back, relax, eat and be merry, it is truly a memorable event of lifetime.  The food is wonderful in Kerala, seems like everything about this place is heavenly :-)

Varkala, Kerala, India

Varkala is a coastal town in the Thiruvananthapuram district situated in the state of Kerala.  Varkala is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea.  One of the most beautiful beaches I have ever been too.  This place should not be missed if you are coming to India.

Varkala coast is stunning, and has an international culture, isolated from the rest of India.  You will feel your not even in India, it is so diverse with many different cultures around the globe.  From Italian café to German bakery to French pastries, this place caters to all.  I decided to have an Indian lunch, so opt for some curd rice, and it was the best curd rice I have ever had.

Varkala is becoming the new “hippie beach” from the most populated Goa.   It is slowly climbing the ladders of popularity among the various tourist destinations in India.  With its largely uncrowded and isolated location, November to March is the ideal time to visit Varkala.

Varkala has many beautiful beaches other than the most famous Papanasanam, but the most developed and the best-favoured one is Papanasanam.  It has all the restaurants and resorts around it.  Lodging opportunities are plenty with home stays, budget hotels, and luxury resorts, spread around the area.

There are sightseeing options once you are in Varkala, from the Janardhana Swami Temple to the Kappil Lake, to the Ayurvedic resorts, and the Anjengo Fort, which is listed as the National Heritage site.  Varkala is peaceful and serene, and if you want to sunbath or a walk on the virgin beaches, a mix of ethnic cuisines to enjoy, then Varkala is the place for you to come in India.