Check out these lesser-known destinations from Thiruvananthapuram Make the most of your long weekends in 2017
1. Tusharagiri Waterfalls

Where: Two streams and a river come together to create three waterfalls. Tusharagiri when translated means “snow-capped mountains”. To get a panoramic view you need to trek through lush vegetation from the second waterfall.
Distance from Thiruvananthapuram: 9 hours by road; closest station is Kozhikode
For whom: Nature enthusiasts and trekkers.
Best time to visit: September - November
Other activities: Rock climbing and wildlife sanctuary visits
2. Munnar
Where: Home to carpet-like tea plantations, Munnar was once a destination for the British Raj to escape from the Indian summer. It is a confluence of three rivers – Kundaly , Mudhirapuzha and Nallathani, and that’s where its supposedly gets its name.
Distance from Thiruvananthapuram: 7 hours by road; by rail: closest is Ernakulum station
For whom: Those looking for some good old fashion rest and relaxation
Best time to visit: All through the year
Other activities: Tea plantation walks, trout fishing, and meet the elusive Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park
3. Thekkekadu
Where: This hidden gem lies in a sleepy hamlet in North Kerala. It is a tiny island nestled in the Kerala backwaters. It’s just you, the Arabian sea, and palms all around.
Distance from Thiruvananthapuram: 12 hours by road; by rail, around 8 hours
For whom: For those who want some solitude.
Best time to visit: October - February
Other activities: Canoeing
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4. Kannur
Where: From cliffs on one side to rocks on the other naturally lends itself to a natural shallow cove. It is a twin beach called Kizhunna and Ezhara that run a 12 km stretch with idyllic views/
Distance from Thiruvananthapuram: 11 hours by road; by rail, around 9 hours
For whom: Couples who want to rekindle romance , and those looking for some peace and quiet
Best time to visit: October - June
Other activities: Swimming
