8 Must To Do Things in Kerala: Kathakali, Crafts, Backwater, Elephant

Planning a trip to Kerala and searching for ideas on what to do in Kerala? Here are the top experiences waiting for you:

• Watch mesmerizing Kathakali performances showcasing traditional art forms
• Learn ancient crafts at Iringal Crafts Village on the Chaliyar River
• Enjoy thrilling elephant rides through Periyar National Park
• Explore the historic sandalwood forests of Marayoor
• Experience spiritual Theyyam ceremonies at sacred temples
• Rejuvenate with authentic Ayurvedic massage therapies
• Cruise through scenic backwaters on traditional houseboats
• Witness powerful Kalaripayattu martial arts demonstrations

Your Kerala trip will be an awesome adventure mixing nature, culture, and fun. Have a blast trying out these 8 must to do things in Kerala and enjoy every moment exploring this incredible place.

1. Go for a Kathakali performance

Many popular tourist locations in Kerala conduct Kathakali performances to showcase the state’s rich traditions and culture. Cochin theaters organize such performances regularly for visitors.

Watching a Kathakali performance in Cochin takes you on a special adventure into the heart of Kerala’s art. Whether you love art or you’re curious to know more about local culture, seeing a Kathakali performance ranks among the great activities to do in Kerala. This amazing experience will stick with you during your time in the state.

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2. Visit Iringal Crafts Village

Kozhikode hosts this village on the shores of the Chaliyar River. Creative people by heart will get the chance to join crafts-making lesson classes. Local artisans here teach about traditional arts and crafts.

For travelers eager to explore more artistic destinations, consider visiting Munnar for its scenic beauty and spice plantations.

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• Local artisans teach traditional crafts like pottery and weaving through craft classes in Kerala.
• Hands-on experiences connect you with the rich cultural heritage of the village through cultural activities in Kerala.
• The scenic Chaliyar River provides an inspiring backdrop as you create art through artistic activities to do in Kerala.
• A friendly community of creators welcomes you to share the joy of crafting through community engagement in Kerala.
• Village exhibitions showcase your artistic talents while you discover the work of other local artists through art exhibitions in Kerala.

3. Go for an elephant ride

Wildlife lovers must go for an elephant safari ride with trained and experienced mahouts. Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary along with Munnar Carmelagiri Elephant Park offer this thrilling experience.

Jump aboard the excitement of riding an elephant during a safari in Kerala! This thrilling adventure takes you into the heart of nature. It ranks among the top 8 must to do things in Kerala.

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This fantastic journey is a must-do for those passionate about nature’s wonders. It ranks high among the top 8 must to do things in Kerala. Therefore, if you’re seeking the best tourist activities in Kerala, this adventure perfectly fits nature lovers!

4. Explore sandalwood forest

Marayoor’s sandalwood forest houses some of the most expensive quality sandalwood trees. This forest sits 40 km from Munnar city center. Visiting here gives you the chance to see Stone Age paintings on rock and burial chambers. The forest department factory sells pure quality sandalwood sticks for your pooja room prayers.

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• Nature, history, and the sweet smell of sandalwood come together, creating a truly enchanting experience of things to do in Kerala.
• You get a unique chance to learn about the world, from amazing trees to stories hidden in rocks and ancient structures while engaging in Kerala activities to do.
• Whether you’re into nature, history, or searching for a special souvenir, the Marayoor sandalwood forest offers something special for everyone through diverse Kerala activities to do.
• Activities tailored to different interests make your visit a diverse and memorable exploration, showcasing the diverse things to do in Kerala.

5. Enjoy Theyyam performance

Theyyam is a style of worship performed to make life prosperous by removing ill effects and obstacles. Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan temple performs this worship from December to April.

Being part of or watching a Theyyam ceremony takes you into a tradition that’s been around for centuries. It’s a unique mix of art, devotion, and Kerala’s cultural history. This brings out the deep spirituality in the state’s traditions. It’s one of the must-do things in Kerala, especially if you’re keen on exploring the top 8 activities to do in Kerala.

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6. Make your body feel pampered with Ayurveda massage

Kerala stands as one of the most popular destinations for Ayurveda therapy. Professional experts rejuvenate your body with traditional Ayurveda massage therapy. Such massage reduces toxins in the body and makes you feel highly relaxed and stress-free.

• In Kerala, you discover special places with calm and beautiful surroundings, making Ayurveda one of the best things to do in Kerala.
• Whether you’re in the hills, by the water, or at the coast, natural places make you feel good and healthy, offering activities among the best things to do in Kerala.
• If you’re tired of busy life, Kerala’s Ayurveda provides a break where you can relax, gain energy, and find balance, making it one of the most relaxing activities to do in Kerala.
• Skilled experts in Ayurveda use their magic touch to make you feel better and transform your mind and body, providing one of the most soothing activities to do in Kerala.
• Ayurveda in Kerala goes beyond just treatment. It uses ancient wisdom to make your mind and body feel great. Additionally, it’s among the most rejuvenating activities to do in Kerala.

7. Backwater boating

Alleppey earns its name as the Venice of the east. Here you can enjoy an amazing ride in houseboats through Kerala backwaters. It will be an experience worth remembering and you will feel like visiting the place again and again.

Riding in houseboats along Alleppey’s Kerala backwaters goes beyond just a trip. Believe us, it’s a cool activity to do in Kerala. Moreover, it’s a fantastic adventure blending nature and culture. This makes it one of the top activities to do in Kerala. This awesome experience sticks with you and makes you want to come back for more fun in Alleppey’s amazing waters.

8. Take some time out to watch Kalaripayattu Bout

This ancient form of Indian martial art brings balanced coordination between body and mind. Specific centers in Thekkady, Kottayam, and Munnar host these performances. Watching it gives you a feeling of satisfaction and provides a soothing experience.

Getting into this ancient martial art goes beyond just watching. However, it’s like going on a fun adventure to discover yourself. Thus, you celebrate the cool connection between your body and mind. Similarly, super-skilled practitioners show you how balance and moves can be. This makes it one of the must-do things in Kerala!

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Planning your Kerala trip timing enhances your experience significantly. September to March offers the best weather with pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. Monsoon season from June to August brings heavy rainfall but showcases Kerala’s lush green beauty at its peak. Winter months from October to February provide ideal conditions for backwater cruises, wildlife safaris, and beach activities. Summer months from March to May can be hot and humid in coastal areas. However, hill stations like Munnar remain cool and pleasant throughout the year, making them perfect year-round destinations.

Conclusion

Kerala stands as a land of wonders. Many other things await exploration in this destination and shopping ranks among the major attractions. While returning back home, don’t forget to buy Kerala silk sarees for your wardrobe collection. Moreover, pick up authentic Indian spices to make relishing food in your kitchen.

Follow our tips and explore the above 8 things in Kerala. Therefore, set out on your trip to explore the top 8 must to do things in Kerala. Kerala delivers a tapestry of experiences that will stay with you long after you leave its fascinating shores. From the calming backwaters to cultural spectacles, spice plantations, and beyond, happy traveling!