Kerala Escapade | Hills, Heritage & Houseboats

Considered as one of the most historic sites in Kannur, the St. Angelo Fort was constructed by the first Portuguese viceroy of India. The fort is triangular in shape appears as a massive yet magnificent structure standing at the helm of the ruthless sea. The laterite walls made of stone lend it an even more imposing air and it is a must-visit destination for architecture students. The sea wall segregating the fort from the sea provides breathtaking views of the Mopilla Bay. Visit the fort for taking a relaxing walk in the complex and enjoy stunning views of the Arabian Sea.Distance: 2.0 km from Kannur bus stand.Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM, every dayEntry fee: INR 10.

Famous as Kerala’s only drive-in beach, the Muzhappilangad offers some of the most stunning views of the yellow and orange sun setting along the golden sandy beaches of Malabar coast. The 4 km stretch of land running along the ocean is perfect for taking a romantic, leisurely stroll with your partner or just drive on the beach and soak in the naked natural splendour around. Photography enthusiasts can take breathtaking shots of the ocean and food lovers can munch on authentic Malabar snacks sold on the beach.Distance: 13.8 km from Kannur bus stand.Timings: No timing restrictionsEntry fee: There is no fee charged to enter the beach but if you want to drive a vehicle on the beach, you are charged INR 10.

Palakkayam Thattu is one of the alluring places to visit in Kannur near the Western Ghats because of the verdant greenery and dizzying height of about 3350 feet above the sea level. It also happens to be one of the most visited hill stations in the state of Kerala. Populated by dense forests and several hillocks, the quaint hamlet is a favoured destination for avid trekkers.

Towering at the height of 75 feet, the lighthouse in Kannur is the first lighthouse to be constructed in Kerala. First built in 1903, the place has a history as well as cultural significance. The vantage point offers spectacular and awe-inspiring views of the entire district of Kannur, the vast expanse of the Arabian sea, and the Baby beach. The bewitching backdrop delights the viewer and the feeling the wind on your face at the highest point will leave you truly breathless. Tourists can also enjoy a leisurely walk in the well-maintained gardens and enjoy the mesmerizing water fountain show in the evenings.Distance: 2.6 km from Kannur bus standTimings: 9 AM to 6 PM, every dayEntry fee: No entry fee.

Trek, walk, stroll or indulge in boating because Echo point in Munnar is a place where you see the creamy clouds floating and rolling down the hilltops, the lush vegetation creates a sight which is often captured in cameras to boost the beauty of Munnar. At 600 ft. above the sea level, people scream with utter enthusiasm to hear it resound and then laugh out of pure amazement. Listening to your voice reverberate in the valley is thrilling which makes it one of the best places to visit in Munnar. The Echo point mostly displays the confluence of three mountains - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala and a picturesque lake which makes the view highly captivating.Location: Munnar, Top Station Highway, Idukki District, Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala 685616Timings: 6 AM - 7:30 PMEntry fee: None.

It is one of the four main waterfalls of Munnar and is very popular among adventure seekers, as the dirt mountain path through the forest gives chills on every step towards Attukad Waterfalls. Take your swimwear as the pool at the bottom of the fall has enough water to dip and bath. It is highly recommended that you visit Munnar during Monsoon season if waterfalls top the list of ‘places to visit in Munnar.’ Attukad waterfall is located between Munnar and Pallivasal and can be reached by crossing a wooden bridge. The waterfalls in Munnar witness hordes of tourist every year and Attukad is one of those famous waterfalls which is mystically beautiful.Location: 2nd Floor, Mermaid Complex, Nadaiyar road, Munnar 685612Timings: 9 AM to 7:30 PMPrice: One can pay INR 100 per person to a guide who can lead the trek through the narrow mountain path.Suggested Read: Things to Do in Munnar for a lovely vacation!

Greeting visitors all around the year, Top Station Munnar lies amidst three mountain streams, at the confluence of Mudrapuzha, Kundala, and Nallathanni mountain ranges. Top Station is a part of reckoned Kannan Devan hill station encircled all around by magnificent views. Turn around your eyes and lose yourself in the sophistication of rich green valleys! Here, there are ample of Neelakurinji flowers blooming once after every 12 years. Tourists from far off places visit here for a picture-perfect shot of these rich and luxurious blue flowers. Once a while, this beautiful place was a well-known trans-shipment tea delivery point connecting Munnar with Bodinayakkanur. You can still find some remains of Top Station’s ropeway station there. Never miss on to accompany yourself with your DSLR’s to snap down a panoramic view of the mighty Western Ghats. Standing at the top station, you can have a bird’s eye view of the township that lays all along the downfall.  All over the path that leads you towards Top Station Munnar, has a beautiful exhibit of blooming flowers. These belong to the rarest varieties and are endearing enough to leave you amazed with both their beauty and fragrance. Location: Top Station Hwy, Munnar.Timings: 6 AM to 6 PMEntry fee: None.Popular Read: Romantic Honeymoon Resorts in Munnar

Drenched in the mist and greenery, Pothamedu viewpoint is a spot worth trekking to. This viewpoint enables a panoramic vista of the valley and if the day is clear, you can also see Muthirapuzha River and Idukki Arch Dam from quite a height. The view is made of a series of emerald hill slopes where tea, coffee, cardamom, and pepper make a blanket of green all over the hills.While you are enjoying the mesmerizing view of the valley, take a sip of ginger tea from the only tea shop nearby and you would love spending your evening at Pothamedu. Watching the sun slide down the horizon in the vast expanse of the Sahyadri ranges is one perfect way of spending your vacation in this quaint town. Pothamedu is one of the many places to visit in Munnar which have a refreshing environ.Location: Pothamedu, Munnar.Timings: 9 AM to 7:30 PMEntry fee: None.