Discover the Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala: Explore God’s Own Country
Kerala, often called God’s Own Country, is one of the most beautiful places in India. This southern state is filled with greenery, peaceful backwaters, rich traditions, and welcoming people. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for more, there are plenty of Kerala tourist places that will leave you amazed.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top tourist places to visit in Kerala, including well-known destinations and some hidden gems. Let’s start your journey to the land of coconut trees and calm waters.
Why Visit Kerala?
Kerala isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. The state offers a peaceful escape from the fast pace of daily life. With its slow-moving backwaters, calm beaches, cool hill stations, and warm-hearted people, Kerala has a way of making every traveller feel at home.
Here are a few reasons why Kerala stands out as one of the top tourist attractions in India:
Backwaters: Unique to Kerala, the backwaters are a network of canals and lakes where you can enjoy a peaceful houseboat ride.
- Hill Stations: Places like Munnar and Wayanad offer cool weather, tea gardens, and beautiful views.
- Beaches: Kerala’s coastline is dotted with clean and quiet beaches like Kovalam and Varkala.
- Wellness & Ayurveda: Kerala is also known for ancient healing treatments and Ayurvedic massages.
- Culture & Festivals: The state’s rich cultural events like Kathakali shows and festivals like Onam attract tourists from around the world.
Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala
1. Munnar – The Green Hill Escape
Munnar is a dreamy hill station in Kerala, known for its endless tea gardens, rolling hills, and cool climate. It’s one of the most iconic Kerala tourist places for nature lovers and honeymooners alike.
- Don’t miss: Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, couples, and photographers
Munnar perfectly showcases the natural attractions of Kerala with its peaceful vibe and lush greenery.
2. Alleppey – The Venice of the East
Famous for its tranquil backwaters, Alleppey offers the best Kerala, India tourist attractions in the form of houseboat cruises, scenic lagoons, and village life.
- Don’t miss: Overnight houseboat stays, Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha Beach
- Ideal for: Couples, families, solo travellers
A boat ride through the canals of Alleppey is a must for anyone on a Kerala trip.
3. Thekkady – For Wildlife and Adventure
Home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is one of the top Kerala tourist attractions for those who love wildlife, forests, and spice plantations.
- Don’t miss: Boat ride in Periyar Lake, Jungle walk, Elephant camp visits
- Ideal for: Families, adventure seekers, wildlife photographers
This place blends nature and adventure like no other Kerala tourist spot.
4. Kochi – The Cultural Gateway of Kerala
Kochi (also known as Cochin) is a blend of colonial charm, modern vibes, and rich heritage. This port city is one of the most fascinating Kerala, India tourist attractions, especially for those interested in history and culture.
- Don’t miss: Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town
- Ideal for: History buffs, culture seekers, photographers
Kochi reflects the unique cultural side of the attraction of Kerala with its art cafes, spice markets, and colonial architecture.
5. Wayanad – The Land of Misty Mountains
Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a serene escape known for its waterfalls, caves, and lush forests. It’s one of the top Kerala tourist places for adventure and nature.
- Don’t miss: Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Falls, Banasura Sagar Dam
- Ideal for: Trekkers, nature lovers, families
Wayanad shows off the raw beauty and eco-friendly side of Kerala trip places.
6. Varkala – The Cliffside Beach Paradise
Varkala is famous for its stunning red cliffs that overlook the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking sunsets and laid-back beach vibes. A peaceful yet vibrant Kerala tourist spot, it’s popular with both pilgrims and beach lovers.
- Don’t miss: Varkala Beach, Janardanaswamy Temple, Cliff cafes
- Ideal for: Solo travellers, backpackers, yoga enthusiasts
Varkala’s blend of spirituality and sea makes it a standout among Kerala tourist attractions.
7. Kumarakom – The Backwater Village Retreat
Kumarakom is a peaceful village located on the banks of Vembanad Lake and is one of the most charming Kerala trip places. Famous for birdwatching, houseboats, and scenic landscapes, it’s perfect for slow, mindful travel.
- Don’t miss: Houseboat ride, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls
- Ideal for: Couples, bird lovers, leisure travellers
This village retreat reflects the calm, natural essence of Kerala tourist attractions, giving travellers a taste of local life and rich biodiversity.
8. Kovalam – Beach Lover’s Delight
Kovalam is Kerala’s most iconic beach destination, known for its crescent-shaped coastline and clear, shallow waters. Once a hippie haven, it’s now a major tourist place to visit in Kerala for both locals and foreigners.
- Don’t miss: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, Ayurvedic massage centres
- Ideal for: Families, wellness seekers, beach lovers
The rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies here are a big part of the attraction of Kerala, blending relaxation with traditional healing.
9. Thrissur – The Cultural Capital of Kerala
Thrissur is famous for its festivals, especially Thrissur Pooram — one of the most spectacular temple festivals in India. It’s a great place to explore the cultural depth of Kerala, India’s tourist attractions.
- Don’t miss: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur Pooram, Kerala Kalamandalam
- Ideal for: Culture lovers, festival-goers, heritage travellers
If you’re looking to understand the soul of Kerala, Thrissur is a top Kerala tourist spot you shouldn’t miss.
10. Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Haven
Home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is one of the best Kerala tourist places for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The area is surrounded by spice plantations and dense forests, offering a refreshing mix of adventure and tranquillity.
- Don’t miss: Periyar Tiger Reserve, bamboo rafting, spice plantation tour
- Ideal for: Wildlife lovers, families, nature photographers
Thekkady is a prime example of the eco-tourism Kerala tourist attractions that blend conservation with exploration.
11. Bekal – Serene Fort by the Sea
Bekal is an emerging gem in north Kerala, known for the iconic Bekal Fort overlooking the Arabian Sea. Though lesser-known, it’s growing in popularity for its picturesque views and peaceful ambience — a true hidden attraction of Kerala.
- Don’t miss: Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, Chandragiri River cruise
- Ideal for: History buffs, couples, offbeat explorers
If you’re seeking quieter places to visit in Kerala, Bekal is a great pick with fewer crowds and postcard-perfect backdrops.
12. Thiruvananthapuram – The Cultural Capital of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram (also called Trivandrum), the capital city of Kerala, is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern charm. It’s home to one of the richest temples in the world, beautiful beaches, palaces, and museums — making it a complete cultural Kerala tourist attraction.
- Don’t miss:
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Napier Museum
- Kovalam Beach
- Poovar Island
- Ideal for: History lovers, pilgrims, urban explorers
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Whether you want to explore temples, relax by the beach, or dive into Kerala’s regal past, Thiruvananthapuram offers it all.
13. Athirappilly Waterfalls – The Niagara of India
Falling from a height of over 80 feet, Athirappilly Waterfalls is the largest waterfall in Kerala and one of the most spectacular natural tourist places. The lush forest surroundings and the thunderous sound of water make it a must-visit.
- Don’t miss:
- Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls
- Trekking trails
- Rainforest views
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, adventure seekers
- Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls
Featured in many Indian films, Athirappilly is a favourite among tourists for its cinematic beauty and raw natural appeal.
14. Silent Valley National Park – Unspoiled Natural Wilderness
Located in the Nilgiri Hills, Silent Valley is one of the most well-preserved tropical rainforests in India. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a paradise for biodiversity lovers and a rare attraction of Kerala that remains untouched by heavy tourism.
- Don’t miss:
- Evergreen forests
- Endangered species (like the Lion-Tailed Macaque)
- Guided forest treks
- Ideal for: Wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers, offbeat travellers
- Evergreen forests
Silent Valley is not just another park – it’s one of the most pristine Kerala, India tourist attractions, ideal for those seeking peaceful, off-grid adventures.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
- Kerala is beautiful throughout the year. But each season offers a different experience.
- October to March is the best time to visit. The weather is cool and pleasant—perfect for sightseeing, backwater cruises, and beach holidays.
- June to September is the monsoon season. The rain makes Kerala lush and green. It’s the ideal time for Ayurvedic treatments and nature lovers.
- April and May are hotter months. But places like Munnar and Wayanad are cooler and great for summer trips.
So, if you’re searching for Kerala tourist attractions by season, plan according to your interests. Whether it’s houseboats, hills, or health retreats, Kerala trip places welcome you in every season.
How to Plan Your Trip to Kerala
- Planning a Kerala trip is simple if you know what to include. Here’s how you can make the most of your journey:
Ideal Duration:
- 7 to 10 days is perfect to cover the major Kerala tourist places.
- Short on time? A 4–5 day itinerary can still include highlights like Munnar, Alleppey, and Thekkady.
Suggested Route:
- Arrival in Kochi
- → Munnar (2 days – hills & tea estates)
- → Thekkady (1 day – wildlife & spice plantations)
- → Alleppey or Kumarakom (1–2 days – houseboats & backwaters)
- → Optional: Varkala, Kovalam, or Wayanad for beaches or adventure
🌦️ Seasonal Experiences:
- Winter (Oct–Mar): Best for backwaters, sightseeing & beaches
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Ideal for Ayurveda treatments & nature photography
- Summer (Apr–May): Visit hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad
🚆 Getting Around:
- Use a private cab for comfort and flexibility
- Kerala has good train and bus connectivity between tourist spots.
Plan smart and tailor your route based on your interests—whether it’s Kerala India tourist attractions, nature, or wellness.
Kerala Travel Tips: Things to Know Before You Go
Make your trip smoother and more enjoyable with these useful tips when visiting Kerala tourist places:
1. Dress & Culture:
- Wear modest and comfortable clothing, especially when visiting temples.
- Remove footwear before entering religious places.
- Respect local customs—Kerala is traditional yet welcoming.
2. Language:
- Malayalam is the official language.
- English and Hindi are widely understood in tourist areas.
- Learn basic greetings like Namaskaram (Hello) – locals appreciate it!
3. Weather Readiness:
- Carry light cottons in summer, umbrella/raincoat during monsoon.
- Evenings in hill stations like Munnar can be cool—pack a light jacket.
4. Local Experiences:
- Try an authentic houseboat stay in Alleppey or Kumarakom.
- Don’t miss a traditional Kerala Sadya (feast) served on a banana leaf.
- Attend a Kathakali or Theyyam performance for cultural immersion.
5. Safety & Wellness:
- Kerala is one of the safest states for tourists, including solo travellers.
- Drink bottled water, and try Ayurveda massages only from certified centres.
Being aware of these tips will enhance your Kerala travel experience and help you better enjoy all the attractions of Kerala.
Conclusion: Start Your Kerala Journey Today
From misty hill stations to tranquil backwaters and vibrant cultural heritage, Kerala truly lives up to its title as God’s Own Country. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, spiritual seeker, or food explorer—there’s something here for everyone.
If you’ve been searching for the top tourist places to visit in Kerala, this guide has hopefully given you the perfect starting point. With a mix of famous destinations and hidden gems, Kerala offers unforgettable moments at every turn.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best tourist places to visit in Kerala?
Some of the best places to visit in Kerala include Munnar (tea gardens), Alleppey (backwaters), Thekkady (wildlife), Wayanad (forests), and Kochi (heritage). Each place offers something unique for every kind of traveller.
2. How many days are enough for a Kerala tour?
A 7 to 10-day trip is ideal to cover major tourist spots like Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, and Kochi comfortably. You can also extend your trip to explore offbeat destinations like Wayanad or Bekal.
3. Which is the No.1 tourist place in Kerala?
Munnar is often considered the No.1 tourist place in Kerala for its scenic landscapes, cool climate, tea plantations, and nature trails.
4. Is Kerala good for family vacations?
Yes, Kerala is perfect for families. With safe beaches, kid-friendly houseboat stays, wildlife safaris, and cultural shows, it’s a great destination for all age groups.
5. What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, houseboat rides, and hill station tours.
6. What are the top attractions of Kerala?
Top attractions include backwaters in Alleppey and Kumarakom, beaches like Varkala and Kovalam, hill stations like Munnar, and the cultural richness of Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
7. Are houseboats in Alleppey worth it?
Absolutely! A houseboat cruise in Alleppey is a must-do. It offers a peaceful ride through Kerala’s backwaters, complete with local food and scenic village views.
8. What are some offbeat places to explore in Kerala?
Some lesser-known gems are Silent Valley National Park, Bekal Fort, Vagamon, and Nelliyampathy. These are perfect if you want to escape the tourist crowd.
9. Is Kerala safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, Kerala is generally safe for solo female travellers. Locals are friendly and helpful. Just follow standard travel safety tips as you would anywhere.
10. How much does a Kerala trip cost?
A budget Kerala trip for 7–8 days can cost around ₹15,000–₹25,000 per person, including accommodation, travel, and meals. Luxury trips can go higher based on preferences.