It's already three weeks past New Year and if that is not enough reason to crave for a break let us remind you that Republic Day is just around the corner. And it falls on a Thursday. If you can manage to take a leave on Friday, you will be able to get four days of holidays. We have a list of 14 places in Kerala where you can escape to with your loved ones for a quick break. Scroll down to see the list.
Kasaragod
Move. Go on a trek to the hills at Ranipuram. Also known as the Ooty of Kasaragod, this trek will refresh you. The District Tourism Promotion Council has some cottages where you can stay. Click here to read about a trek up the hills
Kannur
Paithalmala is about 65km from Kannur. And the rolling greens uphill offers you an amazing vista of not just Kerala, but neighboring Karnataka too. Click here to read about a trek to Paithalmala. Click here for other places of interest in Kannur
Wayanad
Take a leisurely ride up the Thamarassery Pass. You enter a mystical, magical paradise called Wayanad. Go on a trek up the Banasura hill or explore the ancient writings at Edakkal caves or Thovarimala. You can even go on a drive till Bavali, the border between Kerala and Karnataka. Here is a list of places you can cover on a three day visit to Wayanad.
Kozhikode
Kozhikode is famous for its hospitality- and the sumptuous local cuisine. Go on a ride to discover the various eatouts in Kozhikode. Cool down with a dip at Kakkadampoyil or take in a relaxed evening at Kakkayam.
Malappuram
Folktales and ancient monuments make a trip to Malappuram a unique experience. You can take a journey across the various landmarks that form the story about the 'Parayipetta Pandheerukulam' or the 'Clan of Twelve'. Take a short break to Cherupadimala or explore the Teak Museum at Nilambur.
Palakkad
Go on a trek to Dhoni Waterfalls. Take a trip to Malampuzha dam and to Kava. Drive to the only Peacock Sanctuary in Kerala. Experience the rustic villages and follow the historic landmarks across the Nila.
Thrissur
Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala hides a lot of interesting getaways. Learn about Ayurveda and see how it is practiced at Thaikattusery Illam. Go on a trek to Chimony. Buy handloom dress materials from the craft village at Kuthampully. And then head to Athirappilly and Vazhachal
Ernakulam
Wander through the streets of Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. Enjoy the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. Explore the places which will give you the picture perfect selfies. Visit Iringole Kavu.
Idukki
The hills and valleys beckon. Go to Thekkady, drive to Urumbikkara, spend a weekend camping at Thoovanam waterfalls. The options are endless.
Kottayam
Kumarakom and relaxation go hand in hand. Go for a cruise along the waterways, take a walk through the villages. And in the evenings, head for one of those toddy shops that dish up delectable food along with toddy. Or if you are thinking of adventure, head out to Illikkal Kallu.
Alappuzha
Is not just about backwaters and houseboats. Go on a drive along the coastline. Explore the beaches. Stop by Mavelikkara and go to Kakkathuruthu which shot to fame just overnight recently after being mentioned by the National Geographic in their 24 hours around the world photo essay.
Pathanamthitta
The verdant landscape has much to offer – irrespective of your age. Go on a coracle ride at Adavi. Visit the elephant cages at Konni. Go on a much-deserved break at Gavi.
Kollam
Kollam is a mixed bag – there is history, there is wildlife and there is the beach. Go for a cruise along Munroe Islands or to Thangasseri for a slice of history. The beach is calm and relaxing as always. You can go on a trip to Thenmala too. For more places in Kollam
Thiruvananthapuram
Ancient monuments, the zoo, the beaches – there is something to pique your curiosity in this capital town. Cruise along the backwaters at Poovar or go on a trek to Ponmudi. The options are endless. To know more, click here