If long drives are your idea of stress-busting, you are in company. While most of the roads in Kerala are riddled with potholes and infested with crazy drivers, the state has its share of long-winding roads that would make any driver at peace.
From hill stations to lakes to beaches, God’s Own Country offers a plethora of destinations within a short distance. You can also look forward to recharging your batteries at the modest roadside eateries with delectable offerings.
Vallarpadam Terminal Road
The Vallarpadam Terminal Road is comparatively younger on our list. The road is a byproduct of the International ContainerTranshipment Terminal at Vallarpadam near Kochi. The stretch is relatively traffic free even though it is the easiest route from Ernakulam to Kodungallur, Paravur and beyond.
A drive on this road is a refreshing experience. You can drive at leisure, taking in the picture postcard views of Kochi’s own Chinese nets and the red sun setting over the vast lake. You may not be able to resist the temptation to halt here for a selfie.
Chalakudy-Valparai Road
The Chalakudy-Valparai Road cuts through a dense green jungle, just what you have been dreaming of while negotiating the traffic snarls of the smoky city.
The stretch is peppered with soothing streams, energetic waterfalls and small dams. If you do not want to drive all the way to Valparai, you can drive as long as you want to. The road is wide enough to make a novice driver comfortable.
Still you can expect bumpy rides on stony stretches on the road. Take our word for it. You would hardly remember the bad patches after you have returned with the sights and sounds of the forest.
Munnar-Marayur Road
The Munnar-Marayur Road is just shy of the border with Tamil Nadu. You will be greeted with the pristine rain forests on either side of the road. The beauty of Munnar is at its best on this stretch. The enchanting patterns of tea plantations and the enticing scent of the famed Marayur jaggery are unmistakable.
Marayur is famed for its sandalwood forest and sugarcane plantations. The 40 kilometer drive is a treat for your senses. You can cover the distance in two hours if you are driving a car. Visitors to Munnar has a bonus in nearby Marayur. The Eravikulam National Park is situated on this stretch. You could drop by if you have obtained prior permission.
Always schedule your visit during the day. You do not want to miss the scenic route at night.
Alappuzha-Changanassery Road
The 25 kilometer state highway that links Alappuzha to Changanassery is a dream drive. The alluring beauty of Kuttanad is on display through the drive. You can never have enough of the green paddy fields, water bodies and canals filled with rafts of ducks.
The road is pretty straight on most of the stretch. The drive is sure to be pleasurable because the road does not tend to be crowded.
Muzhuppilangad beach
If you can’t have enough breeze in any of these recommended drives, head straight to the Muzhuppilangad beach near Kannur. The drive-in beach will bring out the romantic in you. The beach provides you the unique experience of driving for four kilometers of wet sand.
Your car would thank you for letting it roll over the caressing waves of the Arabian Sea. A perfect weekend evening would be letting yourself bask in the twilight and pampered in the breeze while still at your wheel.
