The South Indian state of Kerala is magnificent in the true sense of the term. It is a perfect destination for tourists looking to enjoy the richness of culture and heritage that India has to offer. Kerala also has a lot of importance in the history of India and so, Kerala tours can be an ideal way to explore places of historical importance.

The ancient Spice route originated in Kerala and many traders from around the world travelled to Kerala, for purchasing spices. It was through these traders that the two Abrahamic religions, Christianity and Islam first came to India. Hence, many ancient shrines of religious preachers can be found in the state. Many tourists visit those shrines during their Kerala travel.

Religious Monuments

Guruvayar Temple - The idol of Lord Krishna in this temple is speculated to be 5000 years old. It is a temple of tremendous religious importance. There are many popular legends about this temple in Hindu Mythology. One can easily be fascinated by its architectural design. Women cannot enter this temple unless their body is fully covered. The visit to this temple is included in most tour packages.

Sabarimala Temple - Situated in the midst of dense forests and mountains, the temple of Sabarimala is one of the most important pilgrimage centers of South India. Many foreigners visit this hill temple during their Kerala tour. It is situated in the district of Pathanamthitta. Public buses and other transports can be booked, from most cities in Kerala, to travel to this place.

Palaces

Bolghatty Palace - This palace was built in the year 1744, by the Dutch settlers. It lies in the island of Bolghatty and one can take a ferry ride to reach this palace. The ferry ride gives a very scenic view of the sea. Most Kerala travel packages will include a tour to this place. The nearest city is Kochi. Do visit this palace during your Kerala tour.

Museum of Hill Palace - The erstwhile residence of the Kochi Royal Family, it has been converted into a museum that displays the prized possessions of the royals like paintings, relics, inscriptions, stone sculptures etc. It remains closed on Mondays and on other days, operates between 10 am - 5 pm. It will be included in the itinerary of most tour packages.

Forts

Bekal Fort - This fort is around 300 years old and was supposedly built by King Sivappa Naik in 1650s. Later on, it acted as a defense mechanism in the Kingdom of the legendary King of South India, Tipu Sultan, who also constructed a beautiful mosque near the fort. It is visited by most tourists during their travel. Kanhangad is the nearest town to this fort.

Kannur Fort - Built in 1505 by the Portuguese, it was sold to a Muslim ruler of the Arakkal Kingdom. It is situated near the Arabian Sea and is at a distance of 3 KMs from the Town of Kannur. It is a popular tourist destination and is included in most Kerala packages and so many foreigners visit this fort during their India tour.

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