
Anand Mahindra just added this unknown Kerala village to his bucket list calling it a must-visit destination - what makes it so special
Anand Mahindra
took to social media to share his desire to visit Kadamakkudy, a lesser-known yet breathtaking cluster of islands in Kerala. Mahindra mentioned that he hopes to explore the destination during his December visit to Kochi for a scheduled business trip.
What began as a personal travel plan has now brought renewed attention to one of Kerala's most serene and naturally rich locations. Mahindra wrote that Kadamakkudy is now 'firmly on his bucket list,' reflecting a growing interest among urban travelers in India's quiet, unexplored landscapes.
With growing interest from influential voices like Anand Mahindra and increasing digital visibility, Kadamakkudy stands on the cusp of transformation.
Yet, its charm lies in its quietude and unspoiled landscapes. If sustainable tourism is prioritised, Kadamakkudy could soon become one of India's finest examples of rural and eco-tourism, offering the perfect balance of accessibility and authenticity.
Anand Mahindra shares travel plans to explore Kadamakkudy, Ernakulam's hidden gem
Kadamakkudy is located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, only about 10 to 15 kilometers from Kochi city. Despite being a stone's throw from one of Kerala's busiest commercial hubs, Kadamakkudy remains remarkably untouched by heavy tourism.
Its proximity to Kochi makes it an accessible weekend getaway or a tranquil detour for business travelers, much like Mahindra himself.
The region is a picturesque network of over a dozen islands, all interlinked by narrow bridges and surrounded by winding canals. What sets Kadamakkudy apart is its authentic Keralite village life, where daily scenes include:
Chinese fishing nets silhouetted against the sky
Local fishermen casting traditional nets in the backwaters
Coconut palms gently swaying in the breeze
Expansive paddy fields stretching toward the horizon
The overall landscape offers a meditative stillness that modern cityscapes lack, making Kadamakkudy a magnet for photographers, nature lovers, and eco-tourists.
Why sunrise and sunset in Kadamakkudy are called Kerala's most magical moments
Source: Blog of Kadamakkudy Islands
One of the most talked-about features of Kadamakkudy is its breathtaking light play during sunrise and sunset. At these times, the water acts like a mirror, reflecting the hues of the sky in brilliant golds, pinks, and purples. The stillness of the landscape during these hours offers visitors a rare chance to disconnect and immerse themselves in Kerala's natural rhythm. Whether you're on a canoe, standing by the bridge, or simply sitting on the banks, witnessing sunrise or sunset in Kadamakkudy is often described as a spiritual experience.
Why Kadamakkudy is Kerala's best-kept secret for sustainable and quiet travel
Source: kadamakkudy.net
Unlike Kerala's more commercial tourist spots like Munnar, Alleppey, or Varkala, Kadamakkudy has retained its low-key tourism model. There are no large resorts or bustling marketplaces—just a few homestays, local eateries, and endless natural beauty. This makes it perfect for travelers seeking quiet, meaningful travel experiences.
Recently, Kadamakkudy has been gaining popularity as a hub for eco-tourism and cycling tours.
Travelers can pedal through island paths, cross small wooden bridges, and interact with locals without disturbing the ecosystem. The region is also gaining traction for birdwatching, given its lush wetlands and slow-moving waters that attract migratory birds.
Kadamakkudy winning hearts online as netizens call it 'heaven on earth'
Anand Mahindra's post triggered an outpouring of love for Kadamakkudy on social media. Many users called the place 'heaven on earth', praising its untouched beauty and quiet charm.
Comments poured in highlighting the uniqueness of the Kerala landscape and urging both the state and central governments to focus on promoting such lesser-known gems.
Some users even compared Kerala's potential to global tourist hotspots, saying that destinations like Kadamakkudy deserve international attention and investment.
What is the
best time to visit Kadamakkudy
Experienced travellers chimed in with practical travel advice, recommending the monsoon and cooler months (June to February) for visiting Kadamakkudy. During this time, the paddy fields are green, the skies are more dramatic, and the backwaters are fuller and clearer. Conversely, the summer heat can reduce visibility and dull the natural vibrance, making it less ideal for sightseeing or photography.

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