Top Scenic Routes in Kerala You Must Visit

Aptly termed 'God's Own Country', Kerala is any traveler's dream with its lush landscape, vibrant culture, and arresting scenery. A major set of rolling hills, serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and rich history-together weave a different tale altogether. If the hidden treasures of the state are explored with scenic drives, the beauty can be felt. From misty tea plantations of Munnar to serene backwaters of Alleppey, the roads of Kerala take one through some breathtaking vistas. This blog will take one on a tour of the top ten most picturesque drives one should not miss in Kerala. Each road trip is an opportunity to behold the natural beauty of the state, its cultural richness, and unparalleled charm.

1. Kochi to Munnar: A Tour through the Tea Gardens

Probably one of the most popular drives through the scenic routes in Kerala, the Kochi-Munnar drive takes you from the crowded city of Kochi into the tranquil hills of Munnar through a stretch of about 130 km in length. Climbing higher up the Western Ghats, the landscape ranges from tropical lowlands to rolling hills carpeted with tea plantations in extreme variation. The fresh air, scenic views, and quiet surroundings make this route a 'must' for all nature lovers.

Highlights en Route :

• Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls: These two waterfalls fall along the way and are an apt stopover to breathe in the fresh air amidst nature's beauty.
• Tea Nurseries: Munnar is well-famous for its tea manors, and this excursion is a treat due to the striking perspectives on huge green fields which appear to expand farther than the eyes can extend.
• National Park of Eravikulam: This is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. It is one grand stop to explore the wild and also get a glimpse of the famous Anamudi Peak, highest point in South India.

This whole drive could take up to 4 hours in all. But with so many breathtakingly beautiful stops you can make, it pays to just go slow.

2. Alleppey to Kollam: Cruise Along the Backwater Roads

However generally connected with Alleppey, houseboat travels are amazingly gorgeous; the street venture from Alleppey to Kollam running along the coast can end up being extremely charming. The 85 km stretch of the street runs lined up with the backwaters and offers entrancing vistas of coconut forests, paddy fields, and customary Kerala towns.

Sights Along the Route:

• The day starts with the houseboat cruise from Alleppey, followed by cruising on the road along the beautiful coastline. 
• Karunagappally: This is one place that falls en route and is famous for its silent beaches. It should not be missed as it promises a time of relaxation with the beautiful coastline of Kerala.
• Kollam is famous for its Ashtamudi Lake. Kollam acts as an entrance to the backwaters of Kerala. The best way to conclude this pleasurable road journey would be a soothing sunset cruise along the lake.

The route would take approximately 2 hours, but the frequent stops for local beauty may easily make this a whole day on the road.

3. Thekkady to Vagamon: Through Spice Plantations and Meadows

The ideal blend of experience, regular excellence, and quietness merits the drive beginning from Thekkady to Vagamon. This excursion is around 65 kilometers in length and takes you through the absolute most amazing scenes Kerala brings to the table, including zest ranches, thick backwoods, and open glades. An adolescent slant station, chosen 1,100 meters above sea level, Vagamon is a genuinely unexploited spot eminent for its moving inclines and emerald-green scenes.

Things to do along the way:

• Zest Ranches: Flavor estates are in abundance around here, and cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon consume the atmosphere with fragrance while passing through this district.
• Paragliding in Vagamon: For the courageous soul, Vagamon offers the best paragliding experience in Kerala with stunning perspectives on slopes and valleys beneath.
• Vagamon Knolls: Open, verdant glades consider extraordinary cookout spots or just to lounge in the peacefulness.

Albeit the drive is short, it is loaded with visual dining experiences, making it one of the most essential courses in Kerala.

4. From Wayanad to Kozhikode: Solidly into the Core of the Western Ghats

On the double generally audacious and stunningly lovely, the drive from Kozhikode to Wayanad goes directly through the core of the Western Ghats. This 85 km drive has its winding streets offering fantastic perspectives with slopes and valleys underneath. For that matter, Wayanad itself is a nature lover's haven-from waterfalls to caves and dense forests teeming with wildlife.

Highlights Along the Route :

• Thamarassery Ghat Pass : Sharp curves and steep inclines greet you, in the form of this steep climb on the ghat road. Good panoramic views make up for literally every single moment of the drive. 
• Banasura Sagar Dam : Being one of the largest earthen dams in India, the Banasura Sagar offers great views and boating facilities.
• The ancient Edakkal Caves feature prehistoric rock carvings and are a compulsive visit for all history buffs. 

Though it takes almost 3 hours along with a drive, the spiraling roads and scenic beauty at every nook and corner make one feel that stops are required just to have the view.

5. Thrissur to Athirapally: Chasing Waterfalls

The road from Thrissur to Athirapally is an enchanted route, with a bed of lush forests and majestic waterfalls. The 60-kilometer drive through the dense Sholayar forest, riddled with glimpses of Kerala's rich biodiversity, is surely going to be something else. Very stunning, this waterfall is often described as the "Niagara of India"; it is Kerala's biggest waterfall.

• Athirapally WaterFalls: The entire journey will be decorated with an 80-feet waterfall, Athirapally Waterfalls is the perfect spot for Nature lovers and photographers. 
• Vazhachal Waterfalls: Just a few kilometers away from Athirapally, there is another beautiful waterfall, Vazhachal amidst the dense greenery. 
• Sholayar Forest: This is a forest that allows spotting of wild animals while driving through it like elephants, deer, and different species of birds.

This full drive can be done in about 2 hours, but you will want to spend time wandering through the waterfalls and surrounding forest.

6. Trivandrum to Ponmudi: A Hill Station Getaway

This day-trip to the hill station of Ponmudi reeks of just what one needs to get away from the heat of Kerala's coastal plains. Though it is a mere 60 km away from Trivandrum, Ponmudi is an unexplored hill station with its cool climate, tea estates, and beautiful landscapes. One narrow, curving road to Ponmudi unfolds one of the most picturesque routes in Kerala.

Must-see Spots en Route:

• Golden Valley: This beautiful Golden Valley is situated close to Ponmudi with crystal rivulets coming down its stimulating greeneries.
• Agasthyakoodam Peak: Part of the peaks at the Western Ghats, Agasthyakoodam is noted for its stiff routes for trekking and panoramic scenery of hills surrounding it.
• Kallar River: Take a refreshing plunge in the Kallar River with its cool clear waters.

It takes about 1 1⁄2 hours to drive, and Ponmudi forms a perfect day trip from Trivandrum owing to its serene beauty.

7. Kannur to Bekal: A Coast of Paradise

The coastal drive down the northern coastline of Kerala, from Kannur down to Bekal, is one of the most picturesque in the region. In itself a sight, the 90-kilometer stretch dotted with pristine beaches, coconut groves, and historic forts, overlooks the Arabian Sea. If it has to be rounded off at a destination, Bekal would be perfect at the end of this coast journey. Bekal itself boasts of its well-known fort of the 17th century.

Highlights Along the Way:

• Payyambalam Beach: Since this counts amongst the most extensive beaches in Kannur, it must form the ideal starting point for a flawless coastal drive.  
• Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach: En-route, Muzhappilangad forms Kerala's only drive-in beach and presents an opportunity to experience the best in adventure along with the possibility of driving on its shores.
• Bekal Fort: This ancient fort, while standing on the cliff overlooking the sea, is an iconic landmark of Kerala.

It would take around 2 hours of driving, but with just so many beautiful beaches and historical places, one will surely love stopping en-route.

8. Varkala to Kanyakumari: A Cross-State Coastal Drive

Although this drive actually takes one across the line into Tamil Nadu, the road from Varkala to Kanyakumari is among the most spectacular and beautiful beachfront driving routes in southern India. Varkala, spoken of as a place of dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches, flows into Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean join together.

Highlights Along the Route:

• Varkala Cliff: The view of the Arabian Sea from atop is just sublime. A late evening walk in Varkala's famous cliff marked the beginning of this trip.
• Vizhinjam Lighthouse: Lying south from Kovalam, the coast it presents is surely breathtaking.
• Sunset at Kanyakumari: Finally, the show ends at KanyaKumari - that view of the sun setting into the ocean.

It involves driving of about three hours, and with the shifting scenery on the way, it automatically becomes a road trip that can be turned into a memorable one.

9. Ernakulam to Thattekad: Bird watcher's Delight

This is a highly recommended drive, especially for the bird enthusiasts among us. The 60-km route meanders through verdant forests of the Western Ghats and takes one to the famous Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, home to over 300 species of birds.

Highlights Along the Route:

• Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: This sanctuary has emerged as one of the best centers in India for spotting birds, with the Malabar Grey Hornbill, Ceylon Frogmouth, and Indian Pitta sheltered here.  
• Periyar River: The road that runs parallel to this river commands a view because of its tranquil atmosphere and lovely scenery.
• Bhoothathankettu Dam: Bhoothathankettu Dam is a picnic favorite or even for a short trek owing to the scenic beauty surrounded by lush forests.

This would take a drive of approximately 1.5 hours and the serene surroundings of Thattekad have been an ideal getaway for the nature lovers.

10. Kumarakom to Cherai Beach: From Backwaters to the Sea

Therefore, it is a scenic route, starting from tranquil backwaters to the sandy shores of Cherai Beach. Some 70 km of driving welcomes you to the beautiful contrast from the tranquil inland waterways of Kumarakom to the vibrant vantage of Cherai Beach.

Highlight Itinerary:

• Kumarakom Backwaters: Enjoy the houseboat ride across the serene waters of Kumarakom Backwaters. Vaikom City: A very small town, almost entirely known for the historical Vaikom Mahadeva Temple; quite a good place on the way.
• Cherai Beach: Lastly, take some time to relax at the beautiful Cherai Beach. You will feel great having fun on its golden sands or dip deep into the Arabian Sea. 

You should allow about 2 hours for the drive, but this is a drive in which you really will want to take your time, because the views en-route are breathtakingly beautiful.

How KeraCabs Enhances Your Sightseeing Experience

The diverse landscapes of Kerala-from serene backwaters to lush hills-become way more enjoyable if supported by reliable, comfortable, and efficient transportation service. KeraCabs is designed to make your journey of sightseeing hassle-free and memorable, packed with various features that elevate the experience when uncovering the beauty of "God's Own Country." Here's how KeraCabs enhances your sightseeing experience:

1. Personalized Sightseeing Packages

KeraCabs allows you to customize the sightseeing tour where you get to decide upon places and routes per your preference. We help you explore the hill stations, backwaters, beaches, or destinations rich with Kerala culture with tailor-made options. You can go for pre-decided packages or make one of your own and not miss any place you wish to see.

2. Local Knowledge and Insightful Guidance

The KeraCabs chauffeurs are not mere drivers; they are well-read in the fields of local history, culture, and geography. For instance, as you cross through Kerala's scenic routes, drivers will be in a vantage position to give useful insights about the destinations, recommend places that seem to be missed out, or even share stories and traditions of the locals. Their local expertise enhances your sightseeing experience, adding more depth and context at every destination.

3. Comfortable and Well-Maintained Vehicles

With KeraCabs, the journey will also be very comfortable, especially if one has to cover a long distance or travel through hilly areas of Kerala. The fleet of vehicles comprises different models, starting from economy class cars up to luxurious vehicles-all air-conditioned and spacious. These vehicles are regularly serviced; therefore, one could enjoy a smooth ride and enjoy the scenic environments that come on the way. 

4. Safe and Reliable Means of Transport

KeraCabs is very serious about your safety; for this reason, their drivers are highly trained, and their vehicles are fitted with the latest GPS tracking systems. This service also involves the use of emergency features where you will be allowed to share your journey details with your friends and family members. With KeraCabs, one can travel along the winding roads and most remote parts of Kerala with ultimate confidence in the safety provided by these taxis.

5. Flexibility is one of the major advantages that come associated with using KeraCabs. From planning one's sightseeing tours according to one's schedule-to enjoy a sunrise at a hill station, a midday cruise through the backwaters, or a sunset at the beach-the options are many. KeraCabs operates 24*7, thus helping one create an itinerary that suits one's pace and taste.

6. Real-time Tracking and Hassle-Free Booking

KeraCabs has an easy-to-use mobile application through which you are able to book your ride with ease, track your vehicle in real time, and change your journey as you please. This convenience means spending less time thinking about logistics and more time taking in Kerala's beautiful landscapes. With transparent fare estimates, you can also efficiently budget your money.

7. Reasonable Price with Transparency

KeraCabs offers competitive pricing for all its services, ensuring that your sightseeing doesn't break the bank. With no hidden charges and transparent upfront pricing through the mobile app, you know exactly how much you're paying for. KeraCabs also provides special deals and discounts for tourists, making it an affordable option for travelers.

8. Eco-Friendly Options

Eco-conscious travelers can avail of the hybrid and electric vehicles offered by KeraCabs to explore Kerala with minimal carbon footprint. This option aligns with Kerala's commitment to sustainable tourism, adding an environmentally friendly note to your sightseeing experience.

9. Multi-Destination and Long-Distance Tours

In case one plans to cover more than one destination or embarks on a long-distance tour, KeraCabs offers the convenience of multi-destination bookings. Be it inter hill station travels or backwaters, beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries, at KeraCabs, one gets to complete the journey at ease and cover more destinations without the hassle of changing transport.

10. Customized to Fit Special Interests

KeraCabs offers special tours tailored according to your interests, be it a nature lover, cultural enthusiast, or history aficionado. For instance,

• Wildlife Tours: KeraCabs drivers will assist in visiting national parks and sanctuaries in Kerala, such as Periyar or Silent Valley.
• Cultural Tours: Visits to temples, historical sites, and traditional art forms of Kerala with elaboration on each by the guides.
• Photography Tours: With flexible stops and detours, KeraCabs ensures that photography enthusiasts get the best vantage points and timing for stunning Kerala shots.

KeraCabs does much more than just provide a mode of conveyance; instead, it amplifies your complete sightseeing experience with local knowledge, personalized tours, safety, and comfort. Whether single or in groups, it makes KeraCabs easily take you around Kerala without hassle, ensuring that the beauty of this state is captured in every possible manner. Get tailored packages combined with flexibility in scheduling and eco-friendly options, making KeraCabs ensure that your Kerala journey is really a memorable adventure.

Scenic routes in Kerala are not just beautiful; they offer journeys through the very heart of this wondrous State. Be it driving along misty hills at Munnar, through and along the backwaters, or along a pristine coastline, Kerala's roads lead to unforgettable experiences. Each of these routes offers something different to look at-the natural beauty of the state, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Time to pack those bags, grab that camera, and head on to explore the top scenic routes down south in Kerala. You wouldn't be disappointed as, with every bend and turn, you will find yourself facing a new vista, which will leave you wonder-struck by the incredible landscapes that define "God's Own Country."