When it comes to family vacations that combine adventure, cultural exploration, and a photographer’s dream, few places compare to the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Kerala. A family holiday in Kerala offers stunning landscapes, rich traditions, and a variety of activities that make it an ideal destination for both seasoned photographers and budding enthusiasts. Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is home to lush forests, tranquil backwaters, picturesque beaches, and charming hill stations. For photography enthusiasts, Kerala offers an array of scenes that capture both natural beauty and cultural depth, providing endless opportunities for creating lasting memories through the lens. In this article, we’ll explore the best family holiday spots in Kerala, from serene beaches to verdant hills, that are perfect for photography lovers.
The Tranquil Backwaters Of Alleppey
One of the most iconic experiences in Kerala family holidays is a boat ride through the serene backwaters of Alleppey. This network of interconnected rivers, lakes, and canals is surrounded by lush greenery and coconut palms, making it a paradise for landscape photographers. Whether you’re capturing the gentle ripples on the water at sunrise or the vibrant colors of houseboats floating by, Alleppey offers countless photo opportunities. A family trip to Alleppey is an immersive experience, with houseboats that offer overnight stays. You can photograph the local village life along the shores, children playing in the water, and farmers working in the paddy fields. The evening sunset, reflected on the glass-like waters, creates a mesmerizing sight that is a must-capture for any photography enthusiast.
Key Photography Tips for Alleppey:
- Golden hour shots work wonders in capturing the tranquil beauty of the backwaters.
- Use a drone to get an aerial view of the winding waterways surrounded by lush greenery.
- Focus on capturing candid moments of local life, such as villagers tending to their boats or children swimming in the waters.
The Lush Hills Of Munnar
Located in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a hill station known for its expansive tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and breathtaking viewpoints. This is an excellent spot for family holidays with a photography twist. Munnar’s landscapes are a paradise for photographers, with rolling hills dotted with neatly manicured tea estates, wildflower meadows, and dense forests offering stunning backdrops for family photos. A family holiday in Munnar presents ample opportunities to capture the beauty of the region’s flora and fauna. Visit the Eravikulam National Park to photograph the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare species of mountain goat, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. You can also explore the Attukal Waterfalls, where cascading water surrounded by lush vegetation provides dramatic photos.
Key Photography Tips for Munnar:
- Capture the vibrant green tea gardens, especially during early mornings when the mist is still hovering over the plantations.
- Use wide-angle lenses to photograph the panoramic views from viewpoints like Top Station and Pothamedu.
- Focus on macro shots of wildflowers and dew-covered leaves, capturing the intricate details of nature.
The Scenic Beaches Of Varkala
Kerala’s beaches are perfect for family vacations that double as photography sessions, and Varkala is one of the most picturesque. Known for its dramatic cliffs that drop into the Arabian Sea, Varkala is a lesser-known gem for photography enthusiasts. The vibrant sunset views here are truly captivating, with the golden light casting long shadows on the sandy beach. The beach is often dotted with colorful fishing boats, and the local fishermen offer a chance to capture portraits of daily life along the coast. The Papanasam Beach, at the base of the cliffs, is also known for its spiritual significance and the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple, providing both scenic and cultural photography opportunities.
Key Photography Tips for Varkala:
- Sunset and sunrise shots from the cliffs are essential; the light during these times is perfect for dramatic coastal photos.
- Capture the vibrant local culture by photographing the fishermen at work, offering authentic glimpses of Kerala’s coastal life.
- Use a polarizing filter to reduce reflections and enhance the colors of the sea and sky.
The Pristine Wildlife Of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
For wildlife photography enthusiasts, a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady is a must. Located in the Western Ghats, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, bison, and a variety of bird species. It offers a chance for family photography sessions that showcase Kerala’s wildlife in its natural habitat. A boat safari on the Periyar Lake allows you to capture elephants bathing by the shore or herds grazing along the banks. The sanctuary also provides opportunities for photographing the lush flora of the region, including the famous bamboo forests and spice plantations. This makes it a perfect blend of wildlife and landscape photography.
Key Photography Tips for Periyar:
- Early morning and late afternoon safaris are ideal for capturing wildlife in action with soft natural lighting.
- Use a telephoto lens to photograph animals from a distance, especially elephants or deer in the wild.
- Capture the reflections of the lush greenery and wildlife in the tranquil waters of the lake.
The Cultural Richness Of Fort Kochi
For families interested in cultural photography, Fort Kochi is a place where history and tradition come alive. This charming coastal town blends Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, with colonial-era architecture, spice markets, and lively street scenes. Photographers can capture the essence of Kerala’s heritage in the vibrant streets, with its busy markets, old churches, and iconic Chinese fishing nets. Walking through Fort Kochi provides ample opportunities to capture both candid moments of everyday life and iconic architectural shots. The annual Kochi-Muziris Biennale is also a fantastic event for those interested in modern art and street photography.
Key Photography Tips for Fort Kochi:
- Capture the colorful fishing nets at sunrise, as the nets are raised to catch fish while the soft light creates beautiful silhouettes.
- Photograph the colonial architecture of old churches, especially the St. Francis Church and the Santa Cruz Basilica.
- Take candid shots of the bustling spice markets to showcase the local life and vibrant colors.
The Serenity Of Wayanad
Wayanad, located in the northeastern part of Kerala, is a treasure trove for photographers. Known for its waterfalls, caves, wildlife sanctuaries, and tranquil lakes, Wayanad is perfect for those seeking family holidays surrounded by natural beauty. The Edakkal Caves, with their ancient petroglyphs, offer a unique blend of history and photography, while the Pookode Lake and Soochipara Falls provide perfect nature shots. Families can enjoy trekking, nature walks, and photography tours that showcase the region’s untouched beauty. Whether you’re capturing the morning mist in the hills or the vibrant green of the coffee plantations, Wayanad is a photographer’s dream.
Key Photography Tips for Wayanad:
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping vistas of the hills, lakes, and waterfalls.
- Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape shots.
- Capture the unique wildlife of the region, including elephants and tigers, with a telephoto lens.
The Enchanting Vagamon
Vagamon is another hill station that offers a peaceful retreat for families and photography lovers. Known for its cool climate, vast meadows, and lush forests, Vagamon is an excellent spot for nature photographers. The winding roads, with their breathtaking views, are perfect for capturing panoramic shots, while the deep valleys and mist-covered hills add a mystical quality to photos. For those interested in adventure photography, Vagamon offers activities like paragliding and trekking, where you can capture thrilling moments against a stunning backdrop of mountains.
Key Photography Tips for Vagamon:
- Take advantage of the misty mornings for dramatic landscape shots, especially at the Pine Forest and the Vagamon Meadows.
- Capture the dynamic skies during the evening, as the colors change rapidly, creating mesmerizing scenes.
- Use the unique angles of the hills and valleys to frame your shots creatively.
Conclusion
Kerala family holidays are not just about relaxation and exploration; they are an opportunity to capture some of the most stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and vibrant traditions through the lens. Whether you are drawn to the tranquil backwaters, the lush tea plantations, the vibrant beaches, or the cultural heritage, Kerala offers endless possibilities for photography enthusiasts. Every corner of this beautiful state is brimming with visual stories waiting to be captured, making it a perfect destination for both families and photography lovers alike.
