Once upon a time, not so long ago, long weekends were greeted with joy, especially by travel buffs. In fact, wanderlusts would mark these weekends on their calendar and plan short trips around them. And while the year 2020 has had more long weekends compared to 2019, travel had come to a standstill due to the Covid-19 pandemic and its related restrictions.
Although travel was gradually picking up and travel enthusiasts looking forward to celebrate the upcoming festive season with a change of scenery, the freshly imposed restrictions ahead of the festive season by neighbouring states Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have thrown a dampener on many a travel buffs plan.
With a long weekend coming up next week, coinciding with the start of 2021, how about ushering it with a change of scenery? The NationWide lists some travel destinations one can drive down to in Kerala for a short break
Kovalam in Thiruvananthapuram is the place to be if you need a blast of spray and sunshine and want to just sit back, sip a drink and enjoy gorgeous sunsets. Not only does this popular beach side holiday destination boast of pristine beaches and stunning resorts, the choice of the food that the restaurants studded along the beach offer are delectable. For those who want adventure by the beach, try your hand at water-based activities such as scuba diving, surfing and speed boating.
The Kashmir of South India, Munnar, is free from the hustle and bustle of city life. This hill station which is cuddled between the Western Ghats is an easy escape destination for weekenders as well as nature enthusiasts. Spot the Nilgiri tahr, go on a tour of a tea plantation, visit Kundala Lake and more. As the crisp air is bound to stimulate your hunger, dig into the ethnic dishes that are on offer.
Home to the country’s largest Tiger Reserve - Periyar National Park, Thekkady is also home to tranquil plantations, tea gardens, lush greenery and thick jungles. Check into an eco-resort and stay in one of the tree houses for a unique experience. Chellarkovil, a sleepy little village a few kilometers away from Thekkady offers cascading waterfalls and also a breathtaking view of the plains. Those who want to experience or witness village life should drop by Annakara.
Tranquil backwaters, misty hills, blossoming green forests, cascading waterfalls, Kumarakom is for those who want a break from city life. Coast through the backwaters in a houseboat, try and spot as many birds as you can at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, trek upto Aruvikkuzhi waterfalls or enjoy art at the Bay Island Driftwood Museum.
Kochi, known as the ‘Gateway to Kerala’ has had a fascinating eclectic influence of the Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese and Portuguese. Feast your eyes on Chinese fishing nets, or if walking down Jew street at Mattancherry, drop by the late Sarah Cohen’s house which has been converted into a museum that preserves the history of Jews in the State. Head to Fort Kochi to take in the architecture and historical sites and do make time to visit Muziris, an erstwhile important trading port, which is currently being developed by the government as a heritage project.
Escape the concrete jungle and feast your eyes on lush greenery. Wayanad, which means land of paddy fields in Malayalam, is one of the prime hill stations in the South. The land, which boasts of production of spices, tea and coffee, is also known for its natural wonders such as waterfalls, caves and lakes. Go trekking to Chembra Peak and Meenmutty Falls, explore old Jain temples or go climbing at Edakkal Caves.
