Unveiling The Hidden Gems Of Kerala: 8 Offbeat Destinations To Explore In Kerala That Might Surprise You!

Kerala stands as a destination where nature's beauty flourishes, marvels come to life, and the landscape radiates in all its splendour! Aptly bestowed with the title of 'God's Own Country,' this enchanting region attracts a multitude of travellers, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers from diverse corners of the globe every year.

For those harbouring a desire to explore offbeat gems in Kerala, destinations less traversed and away from the conventional path, the state unfolds numerous options. Kerala, with its vast and undiscovered terrains, has the power to astonish visitors in myriad ways. Delving into the lesser-known realms hidden beneath misty veils and majestic mountains, we present a compilation of exceptional and less-crowded places. Brace yourself to be captivated by their stunning landscapes and natural magnificence.

Kerala is akin to stepping into a living canvas, where centuries-old traditions seamlessly coexist with modernity. The state's cultural richness is manifested in its classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, each narrating tales of myth and folklore with intricate movements and expressive gestures. The resonating beats of traditional percussion instruments, accompanied by the lilting tunes of classical music, create an immersive experience that transcends time.

Beyond the artistic realm, Kerala's cultural landscape extends to its delectable cuisine, where spices dance in harmony to craft culinary masterpieces. From the iconic Malabar Biryani to the wholesome Sadya , a traditional feast, Kerala's culinary heritage mirrors its cultural diversity, leaving an indelible mark on the palate of every discerning traveller. Let us delve into the 8 must-visit offbeat destinations of Kerala that might surprise you and keep you in an awe:

1. Edakkal Caves , Wayanad
Envision yourself trekking towards a cliff that unveils a mesmerising panorama of the Western Ghats and delving into a cave adorned with carvings that echo an ancient tale dating back almost 8,000 years! This extraordinary adventure awaits at one of Kerala's distinctive locations – the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad. Resembling more of a rock shelter, these caves bear resemblance to the Bhimbetka shelters in Madhya Pradesh and boast being home to the sole Stone Age carvings in South India, with origins tracing back to 6,000 B.C. Navigating the rocky paths from the base to the cliff demands a bit of effort, but the payoff is an unparalleled scenic spectacle, etching an experience into your memory that lasts a lifetime.

2. Kappil Beach , Varkala
Embark on a scenic journey along the meandering roads of Kappil, where the majestic ocean unfolds on one side, while picturesque backwaters adorned with coconut trees grace the other. Often overshadowed by its more renowned neighbour, Varkala, Kappil Beach stands as one of Kerala's concealed treasures. This unspoiled beach sprawls peacefully, devoid of the bustling crowds, offering some of the most captivating sunsets over the Arabian Sea. Nestled on the opposite side is Edava Narayana Lake, serving as a sanctuary for a diverse array of birdlife. The optimal way to experience Kappil is through a leisurely drive, and for added convenience, you can even rent bikes from Varkala for this enchanting journey.

3. Gavi, Periyar
Nestled within the verdant expanse of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, Gavi unfolds as a veritable paradise, embracing the picturesque Gavi Lake. Serenity envelops the calm lake, mirroring the lush green hues of the surrounding dense forests. Boasting a rich biodiversity, Gavi stands as an ideal haven for nature enthusiasts, with more than 260 species of birds and abundant wildlife. In this hidden gem, one may encounter bison, elephants, lion-tailed macaques, and the magnificent Malabar Giant Squirrels. Gavi beckons as a secret sanctuary in Kerala, an unexplored retreat eagerly awaiting the discovery of those who cherish the wonders of nature.

4. Vagamon, Irukki
For those seeking tranquil hill stations away from the hustle and bustle, Vagamon emerges as an exquisite hidden gem in Kerala. Situated in the district of Idukki, it has earned the moniker 'Scotland of Asia.' This designation is a nod to its expansive meadows atop the mountains, providing an ideal setting for the burgeoning activity of paragliding in Vagamon.

5. Areekkal Waterfalls, Kochi
Another delightful destination in the southern region! Situated approximately 35 km from Ernakulam, this waterfall is somewhat tucked away, and a keen eye is essential to catch the signboard along the highway; otherwise, the experience might be missed. A favoured picnic spot for locals, the waterfall is enveloped by rubber trees, and the locale occasionally witnesses sporadic rainfalls, enhancing the allure of the place. If a visit during the monsoon season is on your agenda, be sure to stay vigilant for this splendid hidden marvel, as it reaches its scenic zenith amid the rains!

6. Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam
Kumarakom and Alleppey have gained renown for Kerala's iconic backwaters, yet in close proximity lies the enchanting Ashtamudi Lake—an authentically extraordinary offbeat destination in Kerala. This expansive lake boasts eight branching waterways, transforming it into a haven for diverse bird species and a sanctuary refuge for them.

7. Kumbalangi, Kochi
Not widely recognised is the fact that Kumbalangi in Kochi, Kerala stands as India's inaugural designated ecotourism village. This picturesque fishing enclave overflows with the diverse gifts of nature, enhancing its allure. Truly enchanting, it ranks among the finest destinations in South India for unique experiences. Overlooking the Kochi backwaters, the village is famed for its iconic Chinese fishing nets, offering a memorable panorama. Kumbalangi unfolds like a scene from an artist' s canvas , featuring golden sunsets over meandering backwaters and sunlight filtering through the fishing nets, creating a breathtaking spectacle!

The village boasts numerous charming homestays and guesthouses available for easy booking. Unspoiled by large crowds, Kumbalangi remains a serene and undisturbed holiday haven, providing an ultimately relaxing destination.

8. Silent Valley National Park , Palakkad
The enigmatic Silent Valley National Park lives up to its name, securing its status as one of South India's best-kept secrets. This expansive tropical evergreen rainforest, nestled in the Nilgiri hills of Palakkad district, harbours a diverse array of flora and fauna. While wildlife enthusiasts and individuals within the travel community are familiar with its allure, it continues to be one of Kerala's less-explored gems. Yet, for biologists, nature enthusiasts, and science students, the park serves as a captivating realm of curiosity.

Renowned for its rich biodiversity within the Western Ghats, the forest boasts over a hundred species of orchids, butterflies, beetles, moths, and birds. The Silent Valley National Park stands as a stunning, mysterious sanctuary filled with natural splendour. For those captivated by the movie "Into the Wild" and yearning for a comparable (positive) experience, this captivating destination offers a similar sense of awe and wonder.