I have always been fascinated by the beauty of South India, and I had long dreamed of embarking on a road trip from Bangalore to Kerala, the bustling capital of Karnataka, to Kerala, the enchanting state renowned for its lush backwaters and serene beaches. Finally, the opportunity presented itself, and I set off on an adventure that would unveil the captivating landscapes, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality that define this region.
Distance and Route
The distance between Bangalore and Kerala can vary depending on the route you choose. The shortest route, via NH44 and NH544, is approximately 462.6 km and can be covered in about 8 hours and 40 minutes. However, if you’re looking for a more scenic route, consider taking the NH27 route via Mysore, which is approximately 524.2 km and can be covered in about 10 hours.
| Route | Distance (km) | Approximate Travel Time (hrs) |
|---|---|---|
| NH44 and NH544 | 462.6 | 8 hrs 40 mins |
| NH27 via Mysore | 524.2 | 10 hrs |
Recommended Route: Road trip from Bangalore to Kerala
If you prioritize scenic beauty and cultural experiences, NH27 via Mysore is the better choice. However, if you prioritize a quicker and more straightforward journey, NH44 and NH544 are the better option.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
The best time to visit Kerala depends on your preferences for weather and activities. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
September to February (Winter Season):
- Pleasant weather with mild temperatures and low humidity.
- Ideal for exploring the backwaters, beaches, and hill stations.
- Peak season, so expect higher prices and crowds at popular destinations.
March to May (Summer Season):
- Hotter and more humid temperatures, especially in coastal areas.
- Less crowded and more affordable compared to the winter season.
- Good time to visit if you enjoy water activities and don’t mind the heat.
June to August (Monsoon Season):
- Heavy rainfall, especially in the Western Ghats and coastal areas.
- Lush greenery and waterfalls at their peak.
- Least crowded and most affordable time to visit.
Recommended Time to Visit: Road trip from Bangalore to Kerala
If you prefer pleasant weather and a variety of activities, the winter season (September to February) is the best time to visit Kerala. However, if you don’t mind the heat and want to avoid crowds and save money, the summer season (March to May) is a good option. If you enjoy waterfalls and lush greenery, the monsoon season (June to August) can be a unique experience, but be prepared for heavy rainfall.
Things to do along the way
Mysore
Things to do:
- Explore the opulent Mysore Palace, a marvel of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
- Visit the Chamundeshwari Temple, perched atop Chamundi Hills, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Wander through the Brindavan Gardens, a sprawling expanse of manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures.
Best thing to visit:
- Mysore Palace
Best thing to eat:
- Mysore Masala Dosa, a thin and crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, filled with a potato masala and served with chutney and sambar.
Cochin
Cochin is a port city in Kerala. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food. Some of the best things to do in Cochin are:
Things to do:
- Explore the historic Fort Kochi, a charming enclave with Portuguese-influenced architecture and antique shops.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant spice markets, where the air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices.
- Embark on a leisurely cruise through the backwaters, gliding through a labyrinth of canals and lush greenery aboard a traditional houseboat.
Best thing to visit:
- Visit the Mattancherry Palace: The Mattancherry Palace is a Dutch-built palace that is now a museum. It houses a collection of artifacts from the Dutch colonial period.
- Take a walk through Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is a historic district of Cochin that is known for its Portuguese architecture.
- Enjoy a Kathakali performance: Kathakali is a traditional dance-drama form from Kerala. It is a beautiful and expressive form of art that is sure to impress you.
Best thing to eat:
- Kerala Fish Curry, a spicy and flavorful curry made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and a blend of aromatic spices.
Munnar
Munnar is a hill station in the Western Ghats mountain range of India. It is known for its lush green hills, tea plantations, and waterfalls. Some of the best places to visit in Munnar are:
Things to do:
- Stroll through the manicured tea estates, inhaling the refreshing aroma of freshly picked leaves.
- Trek to the Echo Point, where the echoes of your voice bounce off the surrounding mountains.
- Relax by the side of a cascading waterfall, letting the tranquility of nature wash over you.
Best thing to visit:
- Munnar Tea Museum: The Munnar Tea Museum is a must-visit for any tea lover. It provides an informative overview of the history of tea cultivation in Munnar, and you can even sample some of the local tea.
- Echo Point: Echo Point is a popular tourist destination in Munnar. It is a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Attukal Waterfall: Attukal Waterfall is the highest waterfall in Kerala. It is a beautiful and powerful waterfall that is sure to leave you impressed.
Best thing to eat:
- Idiyappam with Stews, a savory dish made from thin rice noodles served with a variety of stews, such as chicken, mutton, or vegetable stew.
Alleppey
Alleppey is a town in Kerala that is known for its backwaters. Backwaters are a network of canals and lagoons that are a popular tourist destination in Kerala. Some of the best things to do in Alleppey are:
Things to do:
- Embark on a leisurely cruise through the serene backwaters, gliding through a labyrinth of canals and lush greenery aboard a traditional houseboat.
- Visit the Kuttanad Village, a traditional village with a unique ecosystem of floating paddy fields.
- Indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, the ancient Indian healing practices, to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Best thing to visit:
- Take a houseboat ride: The best way to experience the backwaters of Alleppey is to take a houseboat ride. Houseboats are traditional boats that are used for transportation and accommodation in the backwaters.
- Visit Kuttanad Village: Kuttanad Village is a traditional village that is located in the backwaters of Alleppey. It is a great place to see how the local people live and to experience the traditional way of life in Kerala.
- Indulge in Ayurvedic treatments: Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine. There are many Ayurvedic resorts and spas in Alleppey where you can indulge in a variety of treatments.
Best thing to eat:
- Karimeen Fry, a popular dish made with pearl spot fish marinated in a blend of spices and deep-fried to perfection.
Kovalam
Kovalam is a beach resort town in Kerala. It is known for its beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees, and laid-back atmosphere. Some of the best things to do in Kovalam are:
Things to do:
- Relax on the pristine beaches, basking in the warm sunshine and soaking up the tranquil ambiance.
- Engage in water sports, such as surfing, swimming, or kayaking, along the scenic coastline.
- Indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments, the ancient Indian healing practices, to restore your well-being.
Best thing to visit:
- Relax on the beach: Kovalam has three beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Kovalam Beach. All three beaches are beautiful and offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation.
- Go for a swim: The Arabian Sea is warm and inviting, and Kovalam is a great place to go for a swim.
- Try some water sports: There are a variety of water sports available in Kovalam, such as surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
Best thing to eat:
- Kerala Prawn Curry, is a flavorful and aromatic curry made with prawns, coconut milk, and a blend of spices.
Thekkady
Thekkady is a town in Kerala that is known for its Periyar National Park. Periyar National Park is a tiger reserve that is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and deer. Some of the best things to do in Thekkady are:
- Go on a jungle safari: The best way to see the wildlife in Periyar National Park is to go on a jungle safari. There are a variety of different safari options available, including boat safaris, jeep safaris, and elephant safaris.
- Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is another excellent place to see wildlife in Thekkady. It is home to a variety of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
- Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake: Periyar Lake is a large lake that is located in Periyar National Park. It is a great place to go for a boat ride and to relax in the beautiful surroundings.
To know more about Kerala follow this link- Trip to Alleppey – Experiencing Incredible Kerala
Best hotels and homestays to stay in Kerala
| Location | Hotel/Homestay | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Munnar | Eravikulam Lake Resort | Hotel | ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 8,000 per night |
| Munnar | Suryagiri Tea Resort | Hotel | ₹ 3,000 – ₹ 6,000 per night |
| Munnar | Krishnagiri Estate | Homestay | ₹ 2,000 – ₹ 4,000 per night |
| Munnar | Neelakurinji Estate | Homestay | ₹ 1,500 – ₹ 3,000 per night |
| Munnar | Tata Tea Estate | Homestay | ₹ 1,000 – ₹ 2,000 per night |
| Alleppey | Ayurvedic Retreat | Homestay | ₹ 5,000 – ₹ 10,000 per night |
| Alleppey | River Mist Homestay | Homestay | ₹ 3,000 – ₹ 6,000 per night |
| Alleppey | River Retreat Homestay | Homestay | ₹ 2,000 – ₹ 4,000 per night |
| Kovalam | Sea Shell Beach Resort | Hotel | ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 8,000 per night |
| Kovalam | Hilltop Residency | Hotel | ₹ 3,000 – ₹ 6,000 per night |
| Kovalam | Sea Breeze Homestay | Homestay | ₹ 2,000 – ₹ 4,000 per night |
| Kovalam | Palm Grove Homestay | Homestay | ₹ 1,500 – ₹ 3,000 per night |
| Cochin | Malabar House | Hotel | ₹ 5,000 – ₹ 10,000 per night |
| Cochin | Fort Cochin Residency | Hotel | ₹ 3,000 – ₹ 6,000 per night |
| Cochin | Cochin Heritage | Homestay | ₹ 2,000 – ₹ 4,000 per night |
| Cochin | Fort House | Homestay | ₹ 1,500 – ₹ 3,000 per night |
| Thekkady | Thekkady Grand Hotel | Hotel | ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 8,000 per night |
| Thekkady | Thekkady Forest Resort | Hotel | ₹ 3,000 – ₹ 6,000 per night |
| Thekkady | Thekkady Plantations | Homestay | ₹ 2,000 – ₹ 4,000 per night |
| Thekkady | Forest Bliss | Homestay | ₹ 1,500 – ₹ 3,000 per night |
Conclusion
Kerala is a truly magical place, and a road trip from Bangalore to Kerala is a fantastic way to experience all that it has to offer. From the stunning hill stations of Munnar to the serene backwaters of Alleppey, from the vibrant culture of Cochin to the pristine beaches of Kovalam, Kerala has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, Kerala has the perfect experience for you.
I would highly recommend taking a road trip from Bangalore to Kerala if you are looking for a unique and memorable travel experience. With its stunning scenery, rich culture, and delicious food, Kerala is a destination that will leave you wanting more.
