Kerala, often known for its backwaters, beaches, lush green landscapes, hill stations, wildlife and rich cultural traditions, is one of India's most popular destinations for a relaxing holiday.From the peaceful backwaters of Alappuzha and the tea-covered hills of Munnar to the beaches of Kovalam and the wildlife landscapes of Thekkady, Kerala offers very different travel experiences within one state.
Whether you are planning a family holiday, honeymoon, solo trip, weekend getaway or longer Kerala vacation, you can build your itinerary around beaches, nature, culture, food, Ayurveda, wildlife or backwaters.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala
1. Munnar
[IMAGE: Munnar tea plantations with misty Western Ghats and scenic valley]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Munnar, Kerala, featuring endless green tea plantations covering rolling hills, misty Western Ghats, winding road and a peaceful mountain landscape, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural morning light, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Munnar tea plantations and misty hills in Kerala
Munnar is one of the most popular tourist places in Kerala and is especially famous for its tea plantations, cool climate and scenic mountain landscapes.
The destination is ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, photography, scenic drives and peaceful hill-station experiences.
Best For
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Couples
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Families
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Nature lovers
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Photography
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Honeymoon trips
2. Alleppey
[IMAGE: Traditional Kerala houseboat cruising through Alleppey backwaters]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Alleppey, Kerala, showing a traditional Kerala houseboat cruising slowly through calm backwaters surrounded by coconut palms, green paddy fields and traditional village houses, peaceful tropical atmosphere, authentic Kerala tourism photography, warm natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Alleppey backwaters and traditional Kerala houseboat
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is famous for its extensive network of Kerala backwaters and houseboats.
A houseboat stay is one of the experiences most travelers associate with a Kerala trip.
You can choose from short cruises to longer overnight experiences depending on your budget and itinerary.
Best For
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Couples
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Honeymoon
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Families
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Backwater experiences
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Relaxation
3. Kochi
[IMAGE: Fort Kochi waterfront with Chinese fishing nets and historic colonial architecture]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Fort Kochi in Kerala featuring traditional Chinese fishing nets beside the Arabian Sea, historic colonial-style buildings, palm trees and a peaceful waterfront, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural late afternoon light, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Fort Kochi Chinese fishing nets and historic waterfront
Kochi is one of Kerala's most important cities and a popular starting point for travelers exploring the state.
Fort Kochi is particularly known for its historic atmosphere, waterfront, old architecture, cafés and cultural attractions.
Kochi can easily be combined with destinations such as Munnar and Alleppey.
4. Thekkady
[IMAGE: Thekkady forest landscape with Periyar Lake and wildlife surroundings]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Thekkady in Kerala featuring the calm waters of Periyar Lake surrounded by dense green forest, Western Ghats landscape and a small wildlife boat in the distance, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Periyar Lake and forest landscape in Thekkady Kerala
Thekkady is a popular destination for travelers interested in wildlife and nature.
The area is closely associated with Periyar and offers opportunities to explore forest landscapes and experience the region's natural environment.
It is a good addition to Kerala itineraries that combine hill stations, wildlife and nature.
5. Kovalam
[IMAGE: Kovalam beach Kerala with palm trees, Arabian Sea and golden sunset]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Kovalam Beach in Kerala, golden sandy shoreline, Arabian Sea, tall coconut palms, gentle waves and warm sunset light, peaceful tropical beach atmosphere, authentic Kerala tourism photography, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Kovalam Beach with coconut palms and Arabian Sea
Kovalam is one of Kerala's best-known beach destinations.
Its coastline, palm-lined beaches and relaxed atmosphere make it popular among couples, families and travelers looking for a beach holiday.
Kovalam can also be combined with a trip to Thiruvananthapuram.
6. Varkala
[IMAGE: Varkala cliff overlooking Arabian Sea with beach and tropical greenery]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Varkala in Kerala featuring dramatic laterite cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, sandy beach below, coconut palms, walking path and beautiful coastal scenery, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural golden-hour light, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Varkala cliff and beach overlooking the Arabian Sea
Varkala is known for its distinctive cliffside coastal landscape and beach.
The destination has a relaxed atmosphere with cafés, shops and viewpoints overlooking the Arabian Sea.
It is particularly popular with couples, backpackers and travelers looking for a slower beach holiday.
7. Wayanad
[IMAGE: Wayanad green hills, forest and misty Western Ghats landscape]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Wayanad, Kerala, featuring lush green Western Ghats hills, dense forest, misty valleys, plantations and a peaceful rural landscape, authentic Kerala tourism photography, soft morning light, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Wayanad green hills and misty Western Ghats landscape
Wayanad is a beautiful destination for travelers who want green landscapes, forests, waterfalls and outdoor experiences.
Its relatively peaceful surroundings make it suitable for nature-focused trips and longer Kerala itineraries.
8. Kumarakom
[IMAGE: Kumarakom Kerala backwaters with traditional houseboat, coconut palms and peaceful village landscape]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Kumarakom in Kerala, traditional houseboat moving through calm backwaters, coconut palms, lush green vegetation, small village surroundings and peaceful tropical scenery, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Kumarakom backwaters and houseboat in Kerala
Kumarakom is another beautiful destination for experiencing the Kerala backwaters.
Compared with busier tourist areas, it can offer a more peaceful atmosphere for travelers looking for relaxation and nature.
9. Thiruvananthapuram
[IMAGE: Thiruvananthapuram Kerala city and traditional temple architecture]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, featuring traditional Kerala architecture, historic city surroundings, tropical greenery and the distinctive cultural atmosphere of the state capital, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Thiruvananthapuram city and Kerala cultural architecture
Thiruvananthapuram is Kerala's capital and an important cultural and historical destination.
It is also a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions and coastal destinations such as Kovalam.
10. Bekal
[IMAGE: Bekal Fort overlooking Arabian Sea in Kerala]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Bekal Fort in Kerala, historic laterite fort overlooking the Arabian Sea, green coastal landscape, waves along the shoreline and dramatic tropical sky, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural golden-hour light, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Bekal Fort overlooking the Arabian Sea in Kerala
Bekal is known for its historic fort and beautiful coastal scenery.
Bekal Fort overlooking the Arabian Sea is one of the most recognizable attractions in northern Kerala.
11. Vagamon
[IMAGE: Vagamon Kerala rolling green hills, meadows and misty mountain landscape]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Vagamon in Kerala featuring rolling green meadows, misty Western Ghats, pine trees and peaceful mountain scenery, authentic Kerala hill station photography, soft natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Vagamon green hills and misty mountain landscape
Vagamon is a peaceful hill destination known for green meadows, cool weather and scenic landscapes.
It is a good option for travelers who want a quieter alternative to some of Kerala's more popular destinations.
12. Athirappilly
[IMAGE: Athirappilly Waterfalls Kerala surrounded by lush tropical forest]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Athirappilly Waterfalls in Kerala, powerful waterfall flowing through dense tropical green forest, mist rising from the water and dramatic natural surroundings, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Athirappilly Waterfalls surrounded by Kerala forest
Athirappilly is famous for its impressive waterfall and surrounding forest landscape.
It is a popular choice for travelers interested in waterfalls, photography and nature experiences.
13. Poovar
[IMAGE: Poovar Kerala backwaters meeting Arabian Sea with golden sand and coconut trees]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Poovar in Kerala where peaceful backwaters meet the Arabian Sea, golden sandy shoreline, coconut palms, small traditional boat and tropical greenery, authentic Kerala tourism photography, soft natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Poovar backwaters and coastal landscape in Kerala
Poovar offers a combination of backwaters, beaches and tropical landscapes.
It is particularly suitable for travelers looking for a peaceful coastal escape.
14. Kannur
[IMAGE: Kannur Kerala coastline with beach, coconut palms and traditional coastal atmosphere]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Kannur in Kerala featuring a peaceful Arabian Sea beach, coconut palms, traditional coastal surroundings and a scenic tropical landscape, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Kannur beach and coastal landscape in Kerala
Kannur is known for its beaches, cultural traditions and coastal scenery.
It can be a good choice for travelers interested in exploring northern Kerala beyond the more commonly visited destinations.
15. Kozhikode
[IMAGE: Kozhikode Kerala beach and historic coastal city atmosphere]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Kozhikode in Kerala featuring a wide Arabian Sea beach, coconut palms, traditional coastal atmosphere and local travelers enjoying the waterfront, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural evening light, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Kozhikode beach and coastal scenery in Kerala
Kozhikode is an important coastal destination in northern Kerala with a rich cultural and food heritage.
It can be included in a longer northern Kerala itinerary.
16. Thrissur
[IMAGE: Thrissur Kerala traditional temple and vibrant cultural atmosphere]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Thrissur in Kerala showing traditional Kerala temple architecture, lush tropical surroundings and a vibrant cultural atmosphere, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Thrissur Kerala temple and cultural heritage
Thrissur is widely associated with Kerala's cultural traditions and festivals.
Travelers interested in the state's heritage and traditional culture can include Thrissur in their itinerary.
17. Kollam
[IMAGE: Kollam Kerala backwaters with traditional boat and coconut trees]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Kollam in Kerala featuring peaceful backwaters, traditional wooden boat, coconut palms, lush green vegetation and a quiet village landscape, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Kollam backwaters and traditional boat in Kerala
Kollam is another important backwater destination in Kerala.
The area is suitable for travelers who want to experience waterways, village landscapes and a quieter side of the state.
18. Idukki
[IMAGE: Idukki Kerala mountain landscape with lush green valleys and forest]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Idukki in Kerala featuring lush green mountain valleys, dense forests, winding roads and misty Western Ghats scenery, authentic Kerala nature photography, soft natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Idukki green mountains and valleys in Kerala
Idukki is known for its mountainous landscape, forests and scenic natural surroundings.
It is particularly appealing to travelers interested in nature and peaceful hill destinations.
19. Silent Valley National Park
[IMAGE: Silent Valley National Park Kerala dense rainforest and misty Western Ghats]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Silent Valley National Park in Kerala, dense tropical rainforest, misty Western Ghats mountains, lush green vegetation and untouched natural landscape, authentic Kerala wildlife photography, natural soft daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Silent Valley National Park rainforest in Kerala
Silent Valley is known for its rich natural environment and dense rainforest landscape.
Travelers interested in wildlife and nature can consider it when planning a more detailed Kerala trip.
20. Marari Beach
[IMAGE: Marari Beach Kerala with quiet sandy shore, coconut palms and Arabian Sea]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Marari Beach in Kerala, peaceful golden sandy beach, tall coconut palms, gentle Arabian Sea waves and a quiet tropical atmosphere, authentic Kerala tourism photography, soft morning light, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Marari Beach with coconut palms in Kerala
Marari Beach is a good option for travelers who prefer a quieter beach experience.
It can be combined with an Alleppey or Kumarakom backwater trip.
21. Athirappilly & Vazhachal
[IMAGE: Vazhachal waterfall and lush forest landscape near Athirappilly Kerala]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Vazhachal Waterfalls near Athirappilly in Kerala, flowing water surrounded by dense tropical forest, rocks, lush greenery and peaceful natural atmosphere, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Vazhachal Waterfalls and forest near Athirappilly
The Athirappilly and Vazhachal region is ideal for travelers who enjoy waterfalls and forest landscapes.
22. Nelliampathy
[IMAGE: Nelliampathy Kerala misty hills, tea plantations and winding mountain road]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Nelliampathy in Kerala, misty green hills, tea and plantation landscape, winding mountain road and dense tropical vegetation, authentic Kerala hill station photography, soft morning light, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Nelliampathy misty hills and plantations in Kerala
Nelliampathy offers scenic mountain landscapes and a quieter hill-station experience.
23. Ashtamudi Lake
[IMAGE: Ashtamudi Lake Kerala backwaters with traditional boat and coconut-lined shoreline]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala, expansive calm backwaters, traditional wooden boat, coconut-lined shoreline, green village landscape and peaceful tropical atmosphere, authentic Kerala tourism photography, natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Ashtamudi Lake backwaters in Kerala
Ashtamudi Lake is an important backwater destination and offers travelers another opportunity to experience Kerala's waterways and village landscapes.
24. Eravikulam National Park
[IMAGE: Eravikulam National Park near Munnar with rolling green hills and misty Western Ghats]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Eravikulam National Park near Munnar, rolling green Western Ghats hills, misty valleys, natural grasslands and scenic mountain landscape, authentic Kerala wildlife and nature photography, soft daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
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Eravikulam National Park near Munnar Kerala
Eravikulam National Park is a popular nature attraction near Munnar and can be included in a hill-station itinerary.
25. Kerala Backwaters
[IMAGE: Traditional Kerala houseboat cruising through peaceful backwaters surrounded by coconut palms]
Image Prompt:
Create a realistic high-quality travel photograph of Kerala backwaters, traditional houseboat cruising through calm water surrounded by coconut palms, green paddy fields, small village houses and peaceful tropical scenery, authentic Kerala tourism photography, golden natural daylight, realistic colors, no text, no watermark, landscape composition, 1200 × 750 px.
Image Alt Text:
Kerala backwaters with traditional houseboat and coconut trees
The Kerala backwaters are one of the state's most recognizable travel experiences.
A backwater trip can be combined with a houseboat stay, village exploration, local food and peaceful views of Kerala's tropical landscape.
Kerala Travel Experiences by Traveler Type
For Couples
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Munnar
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Alleppey
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Kumarakom
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Varkala
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Kovalam
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Marari Beach
For Families
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Kochi
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Munnar
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Alleppey
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Thekkady
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Kovalam
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Wayanad
For Nature Lovers
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Munnar
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Wayanad
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Thekkady
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Idukki
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Silent Valley
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Athirappilly
For Beach Lovers
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Varkala
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Kovalam
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Marari Beach
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Bekal
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Kannur
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Kozhikode
For Backwater Experiences
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Alleppey
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Kumarakom
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Kollam
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Ashtamudi
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Poovar
How Many Days Are Enough for Kerala?
The ideal duration depends on how many destinations you want to combine.
3–4 Days
Suitable for focusing on one region, such as Kochi + Munnar or Alleppey + nearby destinations.
5–6 Days
A good option for combining hill stations, backwaters and sightseeing.
7 Days
A week allows you to create a more balanced itinerary covering destinations such as Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey.
8–10 Days
Ideal for travelers who want to explore more of Kerala, including beaches, backwaters, hill stations and wildlife.
Kerala Travel Tips
Plan According to Geography
Kerala is long and geographically diverse. Avoid adding too many destinations to a short trip because road travel between places can take considerable time.
Keep Travel Time in Mind
A destination that looks close on a map may take longer to reach because of traffic, mountain roads and local road conditions.
Book Houseboats Carefully
If you are planning an overnight houseboat experience, compare the inclusions, route, accommodation and meal options before booking.
Carry Comfortable Clothing
Kerala is generally warm and humid in many areas, while hill stations such as Munnar can be cooler.
Carry Rain Protection
Rain can occur in different parts of Kerala depending on the season, so a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella can be useful.
Respect Local Culture
Dress appropriately when visiting temples and religious places and follow local rules.
Protect Nature
Avoid littering beaches, forests, backwaters and other natural areas.
