Kerala, often called "God’s Own Country," is a paradise for road trip enthusiasts. With its lush green landscapes, misty hills, pristine backwaters, and coastal highways, the state offers some of the most breathtaking drives in India. Whether you're weaving through tea plantations, cruising along the Arabian Sea, or venturing into dense forests, each road trip in Kerala promises a unique experience. This guide highlights five of the most scenic and unforgettable road trips you can take in Kerala—routes that blend adventure, culture, and nature for the ultimate travel experience. So, buckle up and get ready to explore Kerala like never before!
1. Thekkady to Munnar
This route takes you through lush green tea plantations, dense forests, and offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Along the way, consider stopping at the Periyar National Park in Thekkady, home to diverse wildlife and the picturesque Periyar Lake. As you approach Munnar, the rolling hills and mist-covered landscapes provide a serene backdrop.
Distance: Approximately 85 km
Highlights:
- Periyar National Park
- Tea gardens of Munnar
- Panoramic viewpoints
This drive offers a unique experience as you traverse through the heart of Kerala's backwaters and paddy fields. The road is flanked by verdant rice fields, coconut groves, and serene waterways. Kuttanad, known as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala," is a notable region on this route where farming is done below sea level.
Distance: Approximately 28 km
Highlights:
- Scenic paddy fields
- Traditional Kerala villages
- Backwater canals
This journey from the coastal city of Kozhikode to the hill district of Wayanad is filled with scenic vistas, including lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. The route via the Thamarassery Ghat Pass offers hairpin bends and panoramic views, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Highlights:
- Thusharagiri Waterfalls
- Lakkidi Viewpoint
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Starting from Chalakudy, this route takes you through dense rainforests and past the majestic Athirappilly Waterfalls, often referred to as the "Niagara of India." The drive continues through the Sholayar forest, offering glimpses of wildlife, and culminates in the tea plantations of Valparai in Tamil Nadu.
Distance: Approximately 110 km
Highlights:
- Athirappilly Waterfalls
- Vazhachal Waterfalls
- Sholayar Dam
This coastal drive offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea on one side and the serene backwaters on the other. The route passes through quaint fishing villages, coconut groves, and offers opportunities to experience Kerala's coastal cuisine and culture.
Distance: Approximately 85 km
Highlights:
- Thangassery Lighthouse
- Amritapuri Ashram
- Alappuzha Beach
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