Best Places to Visit in Kerala: Travel Guide for Tourists

Kerala, famously known as God’s Own Country, is a land of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. From serene backwaters and pristine beaches to misty hills and exotic wildlife, this southern state of India is a dream destination for travellers. If you are planning a trip, here is a complete guide to the best places to visit in Kerala, with details on sightseeing, travel tips, and must-do activities.

1. Alleppey (Alappuzha) – The Venice of the East

Alleppey is one of the most famous destinations in Kerala, often called the Backwater Capital of India. Its vast network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and rivers makes it perfect for a houseboat experience.

Main Highlights:

• Cruise through Vembanad Lake on a traditional houseboat.
• Witness the Nehru Trophy Boat Race on Punnamada Lake.
• Explore Kuttanad, known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala.”
• Relax at Marari Beach and enjoy the golden sands.
• Experience Ayurvedic spa and wellness treatments.

Facts:

• Alleppey has over 900 km of backwaters.
• Kuttanad features farming below sea level.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (87 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Alleppey Railway Station
• Tourist Attractions: Vembanad Lake, Krishnapuram Palace, Pathiramanal Island, Alleppey Beach

2. Wayanad – Hills, Forests, and History

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a lush hill station perfect for nature lovers. It’s known for its waterfalls, spice plantations, and prehistoric caves.

Main Highlights:

• Trek to Chembra Peak and view the heart-shaped lake.
• Explore Edakkal Caves with ancient carvings.
• Visit Soochipara Waterfalls for a refreshing dip.
• Take a wildlife safari at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Enjoy bamboo rafting at Kuruva Island.

Travel Tips:

• Wear warm clothes; evenings can be chilly.
• Pre-book safaris for better wildlife spotting.

Facts:

• Wayanad has evidence of Neolithic settlements.
• Banasura Sagar Dam is Asia’s second-largest earthen dam.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round
• Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (98 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Nilambur Railway Station (92 km)
• Tourist Attractions: Chembra Peak, Pookode Lake, Edakkal Caves, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

3. Kochi (Cochin) – Cultural and Coastal City

Kochi blends history with modernity. The city is dotted with colonial architecture, spice markets, and scenic waterfronts.

Main Highlights:

• Visit Fort Kochi and see Chinese fishing nets.
• Explore Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace).
• Attend a Kathakali performance at cultural centers.
• Stroll through Jew Town and visit the Paradesi Synagogue.
• Take a sunset cruise along the Kochi backwaters.

Facts:

• Kochi has one of India’s oldest Jewish communities.
  
• Vasco da Gama was initially buried here.
  
• Best Time to Visit: July to April
• Nearest Airport: Kochi International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction
• Tourist Attractions: Marine Drive, Cherai Beach, Bolgatty Island, St. Francis Church

4. Munnar – Tea Gardens and Misty Hills

Munnar is Kerala’s most famous hill station. Known for its endless tea plantations and cool climate, it is perfect for nature lovers.

Main Highlights:

• Explore Eravikulam National Park and spot the Nilgiri Tahr.
• Visit Tata Tea Museum for tea tours.
• Trek to Top Station for panoramic views.
• Enjoy boat rides at Kundala Lake.
• Witness the rare Neelakurinji bloom (once every 12 years).

Travel Tips:

• Carry warm clothing, especially at night.
• Start early to avoid crowds.

Facts:

• Munnar’s name means “three rivers” in Malayalam.
• It was the summer retreat for British officials.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (125 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction (128 km)
• Tourist Attractions: Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, Attukal Waterfalls, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

5. Kumarakom – Tranquil Backwaters

Kumarakom is famous for serene backwaters, emerald lakes, and bird sanctuaries.

Main Highlights:

• Houseboat cruises on Vembanad Lake.
• Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary for migratory birds.
• Enjoy lakeside Ayurvedic therapy.
• Sunset views over tranquil waters.

Travel Tips:

• Early morning birdwatching is ideal.
• Book houseboats in advance.
• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (90 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station
• Tourist Attractions: Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal Island, Kumarakom Backwaters

6. Fort Kochi – History and Heritage

Fort Kochi is the cultural heart of Kerala, rich with colonial architecture and art.

Main Highlights:

• Chinese fishing nets at sunset.
• Stroll through Jew Town and spice markets.
• Visit Mattancherry Palace and Fort Kochi streets.

Combine Fort Kochi with other top destinations through our Kerala Tour Package

7. Kovalam – Iconic Beaches

Kovalam is Kerala’s most popular beach destination with golden sands and palm-fringed shores.

Main Highlights:

• Relax at Lighthouse Beach.
• Surf or parasail at Hawa Beach.
• Visit Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views.
• Try Ayurvedic massages by the beach.

Travel Tips:

• Visit beaches early morning or evening.
• Carry waterproof bags for water activities.
• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (16 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Central
• Tourist Attractions: Samudra Beach, Vellayani Lake, Shangumukham Beach

8. Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Tours

Thekkady is home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and lush spice plantations.

Main Highlights:

• Safari at Periyar National Park.
• Bamboo rafting and jungle trekking.
• Explore cardamom, pepper, and coffee plantations.
• Watch traditional Kalaripayattu performances.

Travel Tips:

• Pre-book boat safaris.
• Carry binoculars for wildlife spotting.
• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (140 km), Kochi Airport (265 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam (107 km)
• Tourist Attractions: Periyar Lake, Gavi, Caramom Hills

9. Varkala – Cliffside Beaches and Spirituality

Varkala is famous for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, combined with serene beaches and temples.

Main Highlights:

• Relax at Papanasam Beach and Varkala Beach.
• Visit the 2,000-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple.
• Try cliffside cafes and Ayurvedic therapies.

For romantic retreats in Varkala, explore our Kerala Honeymoon Package.

10. Kumarakom – Serene Backwaters

Kumarakom is ideal for birdwatching and peaceful backwater experiences.

Main Highlights:

• Houseboat cruise on Vembanad Lake.
• Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
• Enjoy lakeside Ayurvedic therapies.

Discover tranquil waters through our Kerala Backwaters Package

11. Bekal – Historical Forts and Beaches

Bekal in Kasaragod is known for Bekal Fort and peaceful beaches.

Main Highlights:

• Explore Bekal Fort with panoramic views.
• Relax at Bekal Beach.
• Visit Bekal Hole Aqua Park for family fun.
• Enjoy boat rides at Vypin Island.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (50 km), Trivandrum International Airport (71 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kasaragod Junction (12 km)
• Tourist Attractions: Bekal Fort, Kappil Beach, Pallikere Beach

12. Vagamon – Offbeat Hill Station

Vagamon is perfect for peaceful retreats and adventure activities like paragliding.

Main Highlights:

• Trek through Vagamon Pine Forest.
• Paragliding over scenic hills.
• Visit Marmala Waterfalls.
• Explore Kurishumala Ashram.
• Best Time to Visit: June to February
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (75 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam (64 km)
• Tourist Attractions: Parumthumpara Point, Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary

13. Kozhikode – Spices and Culture

Kozhikode, also called Calicut, is famous for its beaches and rich heritage.

Main Highlights:

• Visit Kozhikode and Kappad Beaches.
• Explore Mananchira Square and Beypore Port.
• Trek to Thusharagiri Waterfalls.
• Best Time to Visit: July to April
• Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (28 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station

14. Thiruvananthapuram – Capital City Charm

Kerala’s capital offers beaches, temples, and museums.

Main Highlights:

• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
• Shangumukham Beach for sunset views.
• Napier Museum and Zoological Park.

Explore Kerala’s southern charm with our Kerala Kanyakumari Package

15. Cherai – Beach and Dolphin Spotting

Cherai is a quieter beach near Kochi, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Main Highlights:

• Swim and surf at Cherai Beach.
• Watch dolphins near the coastline.
• Enjoy local seafood delicacies.

Add Cherai to your journey with our Kerala Family Tour Package

Travel Tips for Kerala Tour

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Which is the best place for backwater tours in Kerala?
A1. Alleppey and Kumarakom are the top destinations for houseboat cruises and tranquil backwater experiences.

Q2. What is the ideal duration for a Kerala trip?
A2. A 7–10 day itinerary covers hills, backwaters, and beaches comfortably.

Q3. Are permits needed for wildlife sanctuaries?
A3. Yes, eco-tourism permits are required for sanctuaries like Periyar and Wayanad.

Q4. Which hill station is best for tea plantations?
A4. Munnar is the most famous for tea gardens and panoramic hill views.

Q5. What is the best time to visit beaches in Kerala?
A5. September to March is ideal, avoiding the heavy monsoon rains.