Kerala comes alive in the monsoon! Everywhere you turn, you see cliffs blanketed in mist and carpeted with thick, dense greenery. Planning a Kerala trip during the monsoon, especially after the first rain, is therefore unmatched. The rain washes away the slumber of summer, and the forests and rivers wake the landscape up with their beauty. Whether you witness the magic of monsoon in Munnar or bathe in the rejuvenating waters near the Athirapally falls, any venture into this Indian state will leave you gaping at its staggering beauty. Here is an unstumbled list of places where you can watch this God’s Own Country be reborn in the replenishing rain!
Best Places To Visit In Kerala After The First Rain
1. Athirapally
Tucked in the culturally rich district of Thrissur, Athirapally is known for the majestic waterfall that adorns its landscape. Once you visit it, you’ll understand why it is dubbed the Niagara Falls of India. While the waterfall takes the form of a steady stream during the rest of the year, within mere days of the monsoon, it transforms into a roaring, awe-inspiring marvel.
For the ultimate experience, do not miss the trail to the top, where you can feel the vibrations of the waterfalls when you stand on nearby boulders. The surrounding rainforest is shrouded with misty droplets from the fall, and the plunge pools look as if begging you to take a dip!
2. Vazhachal
Another destination for those chasing waterfalls! Vazhachal is located less than 30 mins away from Athirapally. It is one of the first places to be transformed by the arrival of the monsoon season. Think intense roaring sounds, rapid flowing water, and a heavy spray of water droplets. Popular tourist activities include sightseeing from viewpoints, day trips, and photography tours.
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3. Munnar
Arguably, the most popular tourist destination in Kerala, and for good reason. While many would characterize it as an overrated or overcrowded spot now, Munnar still has its avid fans. The clouds of the monsoon season engulf the mountain tops and valleys, giving you the perfect excuse to sip on tea, which, again, Munnar has plenty of. The emerald-green tea estates are perfect for people who love being surrounded by nature, while the hairpin turns of the mountains are perfect for thrill seekers.
4. Wayanad
Wayanad is a wilderness haven. The treehouses, the gushing streams, and the hidden caves make you understand why monks and sages of old have chosen to steal away to the wilderness and lead a solitary life. Waterfall-lovers also have plenty to look forward to with Meenmutty and Soochipara waterfalls.
An absolutely unmissable experience here is a drive through the stunning Thamarassery Churam mountain pass. Other unforgettable destinations include the Banasura Sagar Dam and the Bamboo forests of Kuruva Island. A word of caution, however! If you plan on trekking to Chembra Peak, take a professional guide with you. The trails can get extremely slick during the monsoon.
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5. Kumarakom
Kumarakom during this weather is an experience in and of itself. The Vembanad Lake stands apart with its lush backwaters that seem to exhibit an almost melancholic charm during the monsoon. Board a luxury houseboat, set sail on the tranquil backwaters to understand what true bliss feels like. The view of the sky framed with swaying coconut trees will not leave you, even if you’ve left the place long ago.
6. Thekkady
Another marvelous destination in Kerala to behold verdant landscapes and rolling hills. The Eravikulam National Park is the absolute number one experience to have here. The trek here is great for getting some physical exercise. It is moderate, and some people of advanced age may find it difficult to trek to the top. However, you can hail a buggie to the top, so no one has to miss out on the view.
7. Vagamon
Vagamon is the indisputable best-kept secret of Kerala. Even those who are used to the beauty of the region cannot help but stare in wonder at the luscious beauty of this region. Large swathes of green meadows blanketed by low-flying clouds make for postcard views, and the dense, pristine pine forests seem straight out of a fairytale.
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Essential Tips And Gears For Monsoon Vacays
- Wear proper shoes. Mountain slopes and forests during the monsoon can be treacherous, so beware of wearing slippers or flip-flops.
- Invest in a few high-quality dry bags, especially if you’re carrying expensive cameras and other important electronic devices. Waterproofing is crucial in Kerala during the monsoon.
- If you plan on spending extended periods of time in a forested area, make sure you carry insect repellent.
- If you want an added layer of protection, wearing leech socks is also recommended.
- Keep extra cash stowed safely somewhere away from your wallet, in case of emergencies.
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Summing Up
During the monsoon season, Kerala transforms into a blissful paradise, replete with lush greenery, waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery. The parched earth gives way to therapeutic petrichor. The tea estates of Munnar are green and fertile, the backwaters of Alleppey are flourishing, and the weather is pleasantly cool. The best time to witness the dramatic transition of Kerala is heading there right after the first rainfall. That way, you also avoid the cumbersome, heavy rains of the peak season that paralyze your trip. No matter where you head to, the calming backwaters for boat rides or the majestic mountains for a misty escape, Kerala will not fail to mesmerize you.
