Kerala is located on the southwestern coast of India. This Indian state is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and serene backwaters. It is known as God’s own country. Kerala casts a spell on the tourist with its innate beauty and ethereal charm. Kerala’s lush greenery, tranquil beaches, misty hill stations, exotic wildlife, and cultural richness is a must-see. We have curated the list of places to visit in Kerala. It is perfect destination for couples, nature lovers, family vacationers and adventure seekers.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala for Every Traveler
Kerala is one of the prominent tourist destinations that should be in every traveler’s bucket list. This Kerala tourist places list will ease your selection process. The place is home to various religious visits, peaceful backwaters, stunning waterfalls, historic forts, colorful nature reserves, or educational museums.
The backwaters in Kerala where the peaceful waterways fringed by coconut groves and paddy fields will spellbound you with its beauty, it is perfect for houseboat cruises. You will be amazed by witnessing the beauty of beaches, the golden sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant seaside culture. Enchanting hill stations; mist-covered tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool weather is something you cannot afford to miss.
The place is a home to a myriad of National park and wildlife sanctuaries; diverse flora and fauna in lush forests and protected areas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The place has rich culture, and a plethora of temples are there for devotees. You can savor the spicy curries, fresh seafood, and flavorful vegetarian dishes. It is a destination where tradition meets modernity, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Alleppey
Alleppey is also known as Allapuzha, known for sprawling backwaters, lakes, rivers, water lagoons, it has a beautiful stretch of lush paddy fields. It is referred to as The Venice of the East by Lord Curzon. The Alleppey Pier and the lighthouse are a must watch if you visit Alleppey beach. The best spot for picnic and watching sunsets. Other places that you can visit are Kattoor Beach, Marari Beach, Andhakaranazhi Beach, Kayamkulam Lake, Vembanad Lake.
You can also visit temples and churches such as Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Chakkulathukavu Temple, Ambalapuzha Sree Kishna Temple, Kanichukulangara Temple, Thiruvanvandoor Pamabanaiappan Temple, Mullakkal Bhagavathy Temple, Chavara Bhavan Shrine, Alappuzha CSI Christ Church, St. Mary’s Church, Edathua Church, St. Andrew’s Basilica Arthunkal, Revi Karunakaran Museum, Samskithy Center for Indian Performing Arts, Pandavan Rock. The temperature remains hot and humid during summertime.
The town is heaven for fishing, because of the sea and river around. Shopping in Alleppey is a must do. Get immersed in the richly aromatic spices, and buy good quality carpets, if you are traveling to Alleppey.
Kochi
Kochi is the commercial capital of Kerala, formerly known as Cochin, it is known as queen of Arabian Sea. . The place is a blend of primitiveness and modernity. The famous tourist places are Fort Kochi Beach, Mattancherry Palace, Abayaranyam, Cherry Beach. The place has deep roots in history. The city is primarily the port city. Mattancherry holds strong historical and cultural significance. You can stroll along the marine drive, you can also visit Santa Cruz Basilica known for its neo-Gothic architecture. Fort Kochi is one of the prominent Kerala tourist places, the Fort Kochi beach is a must-visit place, and Cochin is the best place to visit in Kerala.
Munnar
Munnar is the most amazing hill station of South India, located at an altitude of 600 fts. It attracts a variety of tourists and offers a lot of things for all kinds of travelers. You can visit Kundala Dam lake on your way to the beautiful hill station, you can try boating in the lake with the views of misty peaks and lush landscapes. When in Munnar, you can’t miss the most famous tourist spot, Photopoint. Eravikulam National Park. You can also visit the Rose garden in Munnar where you will get to see a wide variety of flowers which will touch your heart.
Another spot is Echo point which is the ideal picnic spot located 20 kms away from Munnar. Echo point is the confluence of three mountain ranges- Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and the Kundala ranges. You can stay in cosy Tree houses in Munnar amidst tea gardens. It’s going to be a lifetime experience. Munnar is one of the best places to visit in Kerala as it offers trekking, mountain biking for adventure lovers. Meesappulimala, a trekking paradise is located inside Eravikulam National Park. It is the second highest peak in western Ghats. The mountain range of Munnar resembles a tiger’s face.
Wayanad
Wayanad is the beautiful district of Kerala, known for breathtaking waterfalls, lakes, wildlife sanctuary and the untouched beauty that will make you fall in love with this place. Chembra peak, You can trek to the chembra peak, crossing the tree plantations and the spectacular views of the lush green landscapes. And mid way you will find a heart shaped lake which is a must watch. You can do camping, trekking, or bird watching.
The place has a plethora of sights such as Kanthanpara waterfalls is a tourist hotspot in Kerala. Karapuzha Dam, Pookode & Karlad Lake are must visit spots. You can visit Banasura Sagar dam, the largest earthen dam in India. For all the wildlife enthusiasts out there the place has a Bandipur national Park, Wayanad wildlife sanctuary. Rejuvenate yourself amidst nature and know about a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Trivandrum
It is the capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum has the best places to visit in Kerala. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a famous temple, known for its gold adorned covering and well preserved antiquity. You can visit Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the southeastern corner of western ghats. It is a home of wild animals such as Tiger, Leopard, sloth bear, Elephant, sambar, barking deer, bonnet macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri tahr. It is one of the best places for seeing lions in their natural habitat in India.
You can also visit the backwaters of Poovar and Anchuthenguu, covered with mangroves and diverse variety of flora and fauna. The magic planet theme park is a must visit place for family vacationers.
Varkala
Varkala is located in the southern part of Kerala, it is known for pristine lakes. It is a perfect alternative for Goa. Varkala beach is one of the cleanest beaches in India. Other beaches in Varkala are Thiruvambadi, Kappil beach, Chilakoor beach, Kappil beach, Papanasam Beach. You can even try swimming in Varkala beach for more fun. Additionally, you can do Surfing, paragliding, and play beach volleyball.
Apart from beaches you can visit temples such as Janardhana Swamy Temple, known as Dakshina Kashi” (Benaras of the South) which is located near Papanasam Beach. You can also try visiting Anchuthengu Fort. Varkala will give you a unique experience as it is one of the best places to visit in Kerala for a reason.
Kovalam
Kovalam is a coastal town, located in the city of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, Kovalam means grove of coconut trees. It is one of the best vacation destinations due to its romantic beaches. Vizhinjam Lighthouse is one of the best places to visit near Kovalam beach.
Get indulge in the thrilling experience of parasailing, where you will soar high above the sparkling azure waters of the Arabian Sea, the golden sands of Kovalam Beach. Other activities that you can do in Kovalam are Kayaking, Sea Surfing, Speed Boat Safari, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Artificial Offshore Coral Reef, Catamaran Ride. Witness the boundless beauty of Kovalam, it is the best place to visit in Kerala, due to its endless beauty.
Thrissur
Thrissur is Kerala’s cultural capital. It is known for ancient churches, mosques and temples. Thrissur means “the town in the name of Lord Siva”. You can visit Marine world aquarium, which is India’s largest public aquarium. Another main attraction is Chavakkad beach which is famous for Azhimukam which is the confluence of Bharathapuzha river and Arabian sea. Azhimukam in Malayalam means the “mouth of the sea”.
You can do fishing, swimming and relax at Chavakkad beach. June to September is the best time when you can witness the contrast between the fresh water and salty water. You can visit stunning Athirappilly and Vazhachal Waterfalls. There are several places of faith such as Cheraman Juma Masjid and Guruvayur Temple, Vadakkunnathan Temple, Dolours Basilica.
There is a lot to explore in Thrissur, don’t miss out on these places during your visit to Kerala. Thrissur is one of the best places to visit in Kerala, embedded in culture and tradition.
Kozhikode
Kozhikode is also known as Calicut in an anglicised version. It has played a crucial role in trade and commerce since centuries. Literature, drama and poetry plays an important role in the city. It is named India’s first UNESCO City of Literature. You can visit Kozhikode beach, Lion’s park and the aquarium.
You can stroll along the picturesque beaches such as Kozhikode beach, Kappad beach; where Vasco Da Gama traveled by in 1498, Beypore beach and many more. You can see the Thikkotti lighthouse located on the sea shore in Kozhikode. There are several waterfalls where you go and enjoy, such as Thusharagiri waterfalls, nestled in the lush greenery. You can also visit the Planetarium and the regional Science, one of the most visited places in Calicut for science enthusiasts, it offers a perfect blend of entertainment and education, making it one of the best tourist places in Kerala.
Palakkad
Palakkad is the most populated city of Kerala, also known as Palghat. It is referred as Granary of Kerala, because of paddy fields and being the major producer of rice. It has picturesque landscapes and is famously known for the ancient Palakkad fort. The fort is situated in the heart of the city and was captured and rebuilt by Hyder Ali. Moreover, Malampuzha Dam and Garden near Palakkad is a popular tourist spot. You can also visit the wildlife hotspot, the Silent Valley National Park, which is a home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is the treasure trove for botanists. This place is a must visit in Kerala.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom, nestled on the serene banks of Vembanad Lake in Kerala, is a tranquil haven renowned for its enchanting backwaters, lush landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Kumarakom offers a blend of traditional Kerala charm and luxurious experiences.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Backwaters, Vellavali, Kumarakom beach, Vembanad lake. You can visit Toddy Shops, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, and try activities like Fishing in Kumarakom. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is a perfect place for picnics and trekking during the monsoon season. You can even visit Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple. Kumarakom Craft museum has a collection of antique items such as portraits, paintings, decor items. You must visit St. Mary’s Church, Cheriapally for witnessing the Indian- Persian blend of architecture.
Kannur
Kannur is a small beach city in Kerala, it is known as the city of loom and lores. The city has serene waterfalls, temples, and beaches. It is the best place to visit in Kerala, because it offers a lot of places for visitors. Ezhara beach, Mopila bay, Aralam wildlife sanctuary, Muhappilangad drive; Asia’s longest drive-in beach. St. Angelo Fort or Kannur Fort, Arakkal museum. Kannur is known for its Theyyam performances (traditional dance). Kannur Lighthouse is a must visit spot in Kannur. Kannur is the best tourist place in Kerala.
Kollam
Kollam is the fourth largest city of Kerala, located on the southern tip of Malabar coast of the Arabian sea. It is known for its cashew industry. The famous Jatayu’s centre is a must visit place in Kollam. You can visit Palaruvi falls which resemble the shape of a horse’s tail. Isn’t it worth watching? And after all this, you can’t miss out on Thangassery lighthouse, it is painted red and white, standing tall on the coast of Kerala. It is the most visited lighthouse in Kerala. Kollam offers lot of places to tourists to enjoy and relax, hence it is the best place to visit in Kerala.
Kottayam
Kottayam is located in the southwest of Kerala, it is the birthplace of the publishing industry. Therefore, known as the land of letters, It has vast greenery, paddy fields and rubber plants. Kottayam offers various places where you can visit such as Nadukani hills, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kottathavalam.
You can also attend the annual food festival in Kottayam and savour the scrumptious south Indian dishes. Kottayam is a must visit place in Kerala. You can also visit Illikal Kallu famous destination located on the Illikal Mala hill. Illikal kallu is monolith(a massive rock of peculiar shape). Kottayam is the best place to visit in Kerala if you nature lover and adventure seeker.
Idukki
It lies in the western ghats of Kerala, the best spot for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The place has Asia’s highest arch dam, Idukki dam, built across the Periyar River. You can explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary having a wide variety of flora and fauna such as Tigers, a variety of bird species, elephants and more. Anamudi, the highest peak in India, is located in Idukki. Moreover, you can walk into the market of Idukki known for spices, tea and handicrafts.
You can indulge in trekking and hiking, and wildlife safaris. Idukki should be on your bucket list if you are planning your trip to Kerala. It is no doubt a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and indeed the one of the best places to visit in Kerala.
FAQs:
Which is the most beautiful part of Kerala?
Kerala is a scenic state known for its beauty and charm, the backwaters, hill station, pristine beaches, cascading waterfalls are a must watch. Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kottayam, Vagamon, Varkala,, Wayanad, Kovalam, Cochin, Idukki, Thekkady, Munnar are some of the best places to visit in Kerala.
Which month is best to visit Kerala?
May to June in summer and October to March in winter are the best months to visit Kerala. During these months the temperature remains moderate and less humid. The weather also remains pleasant. You can explore the amazing cities of Kerala comfortably during these months.
Is 4 days enough for Kerala?
If you want to explore most of the places in Kerala then atleast 9-10 days will be needed but if you have a lesser number of days then you can cover the main sightseeing spots in Kerala in 4 days. Kerala has a plethora of tourist spots including waterfalls, hill stations, backwaters, beaches and historical monuments and religious sites, and exploring these places will require ample days.
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