Nileshwar, a calm seaside town in the Kasaragod district, Northern Kerala filled with cultural heritage and tranquillity of backwaters. It is the hub for all cultural activities and can also be called as Kasaragod's culture capital. Nileshwar, Kerala offers a quite authentic Kerala experience away from more crowded tourist destinations. It is popular as a temple town, beach destination, and Ayurvedic retreat and for its houseboat rides on the backwaters that draw tourists to Kerala who add this quiet place in their itinerary. So, take a look at these top things to do in Nileshwar and Nileshwar sightseeing spots to check out
Backwater Cruise at Valiyaparamba
One of the most popular things to do in Nileshwar is to take a backwater cruise on Valiyaparamba Backwaters. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and idyllic boat ride on an extensive network of connecting rivers, lakes, Nileshwar backwaters and lagoons that are connected by no less than four different river systems. The place is more relaxed in nature than the more commercialized Alleppey backwaters. You can take a houseboat or shikara boat ride along the calm, serene Nileshwar backwaters flanked by lush greenery on both sides with swaying palm shores and tiny islets accompanying you. This is the place to visit in Nileshwar for nature lovers and those who are looking for leisure, given the serene waters and lush landscapes surrounding it.
Nileshwar Beach
Nileshwar Beach is the perfect place to visit in Nileshwar for a sandy shore to relax on as there is less hustle and bustle over this beach. Therefore, people who like to take a peaceful walk across the shore and maybe just some time out for themself or do an altogether quiet picnic with family, and friends can resort here. There are amazing sunsets and the pristine, untouched beaches provide a welcome cool getaway from city life. For the ones who love to be near the sea but want less commercialized beaches of Nileshwar, Kerala, this is a perfect location.
Visit the Nileshwaram Palace
Nileshwaram Palace is one of the most important cultural symbols of them all in the region. This palace in Nileshwar, Kerala was once used as a royal residence by the Nileshwar Rajas, it is now maintained and operated as a folklore centre by the Kerala government. It displays the traditional Kerala architecture with detailed wooden carvings and antiques from the bygone era. This Nileshwar sightseeing place gives a peek into the royal life of Nileshwar historically. This place to visit in Nileshwar is a prized catch for any architecture buff or history lover.
Anandashram
If you are looking for some spiritual relief, a visit to Anandashram is an indispensable thing to do in Nileshwar; it lies close by at Kanhangad in the vicinity of Nileshwar, Kerala. It is a peaceful place for spiritual retreats with the teachings of Swami Ramdas. Guests can take part in meditation practices, undergo spiritual discourses and roam the verdant gardens within the Ashram. Anandashram is not just a Nileshwar sightseeing place for spiritual seekers but also a peaceful getaway for those looking to disconnect from the world and find inner peace.
Witness Theyyam performances
For those looking to experience the cultural soul of Kerala, there is no missing traditional Theyyam performance in Nileshwar, Kerala. All these performances are held at various temples in and around Nileshwar, especially during festival season. Theyyam is known for its colourful costumes, elaborate makeup and symbolic storytelling about gods and ancient spirits. Watching Theyyam is a must thing to do in Nileshwar to experience a cultural fiesta that will allow you to delve deep into the heart of Kerala's folklore and traditions.
Bekal Fort
Bekal Fort is one of Kerala´s most known historical highlights which is just a drive away from Nileshwar, Kerala. This 17th-century massive coastal fort presents panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The Nileshwar sightseeing place is a must-visit for history buffs and photographers alike due to its impressive architecture as well as being connected by a beautiful beach. It is particularly beautiful during the monsoon season as it brings out its best and most vibrant surroundings.
Visit the sacred groves and temples
Nileshwar, Kerala is home to a number of sacred groves, and small patches of forests dedicated to local deities. These groves are not only places of divine worship but they also play an important role in biodiversity conservation, particularly medicinal plants. Visitors can explore groves such as Mannampurath Kavu, where festivals like Pooram and Kalasam are celebrated with great fervour. Nileshwar Kerala also has several important temples, including the Mannam Purathu Kavu and the Thaliyil temple.