Kerala, often referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, lush greenery, serene backwaters, and vibrant cultural heritage. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer, Kerala offers something for every traveler. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Kerala that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
1. Munnar – The Scenic Hill Station
Why Visit? Munnar is known for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and cool climate. It is a paradise for nature lovers and honeymooners alike.
Top Attractions:
Eravikulam National Park – Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr
Tea Gardens – Visit the Tata Tea Museum for a tea-tasting experience
Mattupetty Dam – Enjoy a boat ride with picturesque views
Top Station – Get a panoramic view of the Western Ghats
Echo Point – Known for its natural echo phenomenon
2. Alleppey – The Venice of the East
Why Visit? Famous for its enchanting backwaters, Alleppey offers houseboat cruises that let you experience Kerala’s rural life up close.
Top Attractions:
Houseboat Cruise – Enjoy an overnight stay in a traditional houseboat
Alleppey Beach – A serene beach with a 137-year-old pier
Marari Beach – Perfect for a relaxing getaway
Krishnapuram Palace – A historic palace with Kerala-style architecture
3. Kochi – The Queen of the Arabian Sea
Why Visit? A blend of modernity and tradition, Kochi is Kerala’s commercial capital with a rich colonial past.
Top Attractions:
Fort Kochi – A historic area with colonial-era buildings
Chinese Fishing Nets – A unique fishing technique introduced by traders from China
Mattancherry Palace – Also known as the Dutch Palace, showcasing Kerala murals
Jewish Synagogue – A 16th-century synagogue with beautiful chandeliers
Marine Drive – A scenic walkway along the waterfront
4. Wayanad – Nature’s Abode
Why Visit? Wayanad is known for its lush green forests, waterfalls, and rich tribal culture. It’s a perfect destination for adventure lovers.
Top Attractions:
Edakkal Caves – Prehistoric rock carvings dating back to 6000 BC
Banasura Sagar Dam – The largest earthen dam in India
Soochipara Waterfalls – Ideal for trekking and nature walks
Chembra Peak – Famous for its heart-shaped lake
5. Thekkady – Home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Why Visit? Thekkady is a haven for wildlife lovers with its famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Top Attractions:
Periyar National Park – Spot elephants, tigers, and exotic birds
Boating in Periyar Lake – A scenic boat ride inside the sanctuary
Spice Plantations – Tour spice gardens and learn about Kerala’s spices
Mangala Devi Temple – An ancient temple hidden deep in the forest
6. Kovalam – The Beach Paradise
Why Visit? Kovalam is a world-renowned beach destination famous for its golden sandy shores and vibrant nightlife.
Top Attractions:
Lighthouse Beach – The most famous beach with a stunning view from the lighthouse
Hawa Beach – Known for its serene ambiance and sunset views
Samudra Beach – Less crowded, perfect for relaxation
Ayurvedic Massage Centers – Experience rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments
7. Varkala – The Cliffside Beach Destination
Why Visit? Varkala is unique for its cliffside beaches and spiritual significance.
Top Attractions:
Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach) – Believed to have holy waters that cleanse sins
Janardhana Swamy Temple – A 2000-year-old Hindu temple
Varkala Cliff – Offers a mesmerizing view of the Arabian Sea
Kappil Lake – A serene lake ideal for boating
8. Kumarakom – The Serene Backwater Destination
Why Visit? A tranquil alternative to Alleppey, Kumarakom is known for its houseboats and bird sanctuary.
Top Attractions:
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – Spot migratory birds like Siberian cranes
Houseboat Stay – A more peaceful backwater experience than Alleppey
Pathiramanal Island – A small, picturesque island in Vembanad Lake
9. Poovar – Where the River Meets the Sea
Why Visit? Poovar is a hidden gem where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea, offering stunning natural beauty.
Top Attractions:
Poovar Beach – A secluded beach with golden sand
Floating Cottages – Unique accommodation with breathtaking views
Poovar Backwaters – Enjoy a boat ride through mangrove forests
10. Bekal – The Historic Coastal Town
Why Visit? Bekal is famous for its well-preserved Bekal Fort, the largest in Kerala.
Top Attractions:
Bekal Fort – Offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea
Bekal Beach – A clean, scenic beach perfect for photography
Chandragiri Fort – A lesser-known historic fort with panoramic views
Best Time to Visit Kerala
The ideal time to visit Kerala is:
Winter (October to March): Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and backwater tours.
Monsoon (June to September): Best for Ayurvedic treatments and experiencing lush greenery.
Summer (April to May): Visit hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad to escape the heat.
How to Reach Kerala
By Air: Major airports include Cochin International Airport, Trivandrum International Airport, and Calicut International Airport.
By Rail: Kerala is well connected by rail, with major railway stations in Ernakulam, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode.
By Road: Kerala has a well-developed road network with national highways linking it to neighboring states.
Final Thoughts
Kerala is a land of diverse landscapes, offering everything from misty mountains and backwaters to golden beaches and rich wildlife. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Kerala has it all. Plan your trip and immerse yourself in the charm of God’s Own Country!