A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Table of Contents
Introduction
When exploring the best places to visit in Kerala, you will find this beautiful Indian state a blend of unmatched natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is a paradise of diverse landscapes – from serene beaches to lush hills, calm backwaters, and dense forests. Whether you are a nature lover, culture freak, or an adventure enthusiast, Kerala has something special for every traveler.
Why Visit Kerala?
Kerala’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and traditional charm makes it a must-visit destination. Here, you will experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey, the refreshing hills of Munnar, and the vibrant festivals of Thrissur, all within a short distance. Kerala offers a wide range of experiences for all kinds of vacations, be it a relaxing retreat, a thrilling trip, a romantic honeymoon, or a family vacation. Let’s explore the best places to visit in Kerala and find out why this place is a dream for travelers.
Best Places To Visit In Kerala
1. Munnar – The Paradise of Hill Stations
Munnar, a charming hill station, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kerala. Known for its winding tea plantations, misty landscapes, and cool climate, Munnar is perfect for those seeking peace in nature. Here’s what you can see:
- Main attractions: Munnar is home to the Eravikulam National Park, where you can spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the region’s tea heritage and take a scenic drive to the Mattupetty Dam for stunning views.
- Recommended activities: Go trekking on beautiful trails, experience tea-tasting sessions, and take peaceful walks through tea plantations.
2. Alleppey – Backwater Bliss
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey is one of the most iconic places to visit in Kerala for its breathtaking backwaters and houseboat cruises.
- Key attractions: Alleppey’s serene Kuttanad backwaters, the relaxing Alappuzha beach, and the famous Snake Boat Race are popular attractions.
- Houseboat Tips: Consider spending a night on a Kerala traditional houseboat to fully experience the charm of Alleppey’s backwaters. You’ll pass through lush landscapes, rice fields, and coconut groves, making it a truly memorable experience.
3. Kochi – A Cultural Mellow
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a bustling port city that exhibits a fascinating blend of cultures. It is one of the best places to visit in Kerala for history and culture enthusiasts.
- Must-Visit Places: Explore Fort Kochi with Chinese fishing nets and charming colonial architecture. Visit the historic Mattancherry Palace, a Portuguese heritage filled with murals and art.
- Cultural Experiences: Don’t miss a Kathakali dance performance, explore the spice markets, and relax at Kochi’s popular cafes that blend traditional and contemporary vibes.
4. Thekkady – A wildlife enthusiast’s paradise
Thekkady is a nature lover’s dream, famous for its dense forests, wildlife, and spice plantations, making it one of the top places to visit in Kerala for adventure and nature lovers.
- Main Attractions: The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its rich biodiversity, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various birds. Bamboo rafting on the Periyar Lake is a unique experience.
- Activities: Go on a jungle safari, hike through nature trails, or visit the spice plantations to learn about Kerala’s famous spices.
5. Kumarakom – Bird watchers paradise
Kumarakom is a serene village located on the Vembanad Lake, known for its backwaters and bird sanctuary. The place is an ideal spot for nature lovers and bird watchers, making it one of the best places to visit in Kerala.
- Key Places: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is home to migratory birds like Siberian cranes and various kingfishers. The Vembanad Lake is perfect for houseboats or canoe rides.
- Activities: Enjoy bird watching, fishing, and relaxing on a houseboat to soak in the beauty of the backwaters.
6. Wayanad – For nature and adventure lovers
Wayanad, with its lush forests, waterfalls, and ancient caves, is one of the best places to visit in Kerala for adventure and outdoor activities.
- Notable Places: Explore the ancient Edakkal Caves with their rock carvings, climb the Chembra Peak for panoramic views, and visit the beautiful Soochipara Falls.
- Adventure Activities: Wayanad is the perfect place for trekking, camping, and wildlife watching, making it a paradise for adventure seekers.
7. Varkala – The Coastal Resort
The stunning cliffs and sandy beaches of Varkala make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kerala. It is a favorite among those who enjoy the beach.
- Main Attractions: Varkala Beach, known for its pristine sands and lively beach restaurants, is a popular spot. Visit Papanasam Beach, famous for its sacred waters, and the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple.
- Beach Activities: Enjoy beach yoga, surfing, or just relax with breathtaking views of the sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Credit: Indian Traveller (Youtube)
8. Kovalam – The Famous Beach Destination of Kerala
Kovalam is one of the most famous places to visit in Kerala for a relaxing beach holiday. Its crescent-shaped beaches attract tourists from all over the world.
- Popular Beaches: Kovalam has Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach, each of which has its own unique charm.
- Activities: Enjoy beach walking, parasailing, and rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatments offered by many beach resorts.
9. Thrissur – The Cultural Capital of Kerala
Thrissur is often referred to as the cultural capital of Kerala and is one of the best places to visit in Kerala to experience the festivals and traditions of the state.
- Must Visit Places: Experience the ancient Vadakkunnathan Temple, the mesmerizing Athirappilly Waterfalls and the vibrant Thrissur Pooram festival.
- Cultural Experiences: Thrissur is famous for traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, giving you a chance to taste the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Best Time to Visit Kerala:
The climate of Kerala varies seasonally, and the best time to visit Kerala depends on your preferences:
- Winter (October to February): Ideal for visiting hill stations like Munnar and beaches like Kovalam and Varkala.
- Monsoon (June to September): June through September is the monsoon season when Kerala transforms into a gorgeous wonderland. Travelers can enjoy natural beauty and fewer crowds during the monsoon, but do check weather updates.
- Summer (March to May): Going to the beach is still fun in summer, but inland areas can get quite hot.
Top Travel Tips for Visiting Kerala
- Accommodation: There are a variety of stay options available in Kerala—houseboats in Alleppey, homestays in Wayanad, and eco-resorts in Thekkady.
- Transportation: Traveling in Kerala is easy by local buses, trains, and private cabs. Renting a bike is popular in some tourist areas.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites, and remove shoes where required.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t forget the delicious Kerala dishes like appam, fish curry, and banana chips. For foodies, the traditional Kerala Sadya is a must-try dish.
Conclusion
Kerala is a land of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventure. Every best place to visit in Kerala offers something unique, from the tea plantations of Munnar to the backwaters of Alleppey and the beaches of Varkala to the forests of Wayanad. Whether you want to relax, experience nature or immerse yourself in culture, Kerala has it all. Plan a trip to Kerala to experience the warmth and natural beauty of this incredible state.
