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Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is renowned for its enchanting hill stations nestled in the Western Ghats. These verdant retreats offer a perfect escape from the tropical heat with their extraordinary climate and misty mountains. Each hill station in Kerala, from the sprawling tea gardens of Munnar to the serene forests of Wayanad, provides unique experiences. The tranquil ambience, coupled with rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, makes Kerala’s hill stations ideal destinations for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Top 10 Hill Stations in Kerala
Among the many must-visit destinations, here is a list of the best 10 hill stations in Kerala for you to explore:
1. Munnar
Photo: Brokholi94 / Wikimedia Commons
Munnar, known as the “Kashmir of South India,” is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. Famous for its vast tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and cool climate, Munnar offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Tea Museum, trek through Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, or marvel at the Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India. With its winding roads, spice gardens, and colonial bungalows, Munnar provides a perfect escape.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 271 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kerala
2. Wayanad
Photo: Nitin Pai / Wikimedia Commons
Wayanad, a verdant paradise in northern Kerala, is known for its lush forests, spice plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries and is one of the best hill stations in Kerala. This hill station offers a blend of natural beauty and rich tribal culture. Visitors can explore ancient cave systems like Edakkal Caves, featuring prehistoric rock engravings, or trek to Chembra Peak for panoramic views. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants and tigers. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy bamboo rafting on the Kuruva Islands.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 456 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
3. Thekkady
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
Thekkady, home to the famous Periyar National Park, is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. This hill station offers a unique blend of dense forests, spice plantations, and a serene lake. Visitors can embark on boat safaris on Periyar Lake, spotting elephants, bison, and various bird species. The park also offers eco-tourism activities like bamboo rafting and guided nature walks. The cool climate, misty mountains, and the opportunity to stay in treehouses make Thekkady an enchanting destination for adventure seekers.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 200 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
Suggested Read: Beaches In Kerala
4. Ponmudi
Photo: Sakthibalan / Wikimedia Commons
Ponmudi, often called the “Golden Peak,” is a lesser-known hill station in Kerala with a distance of 53 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Its winding roads with 22 hairpin bends offer a thrilling journey through mist-covered hills and lush tea plantations. The hilltop provides alluring views of the surrounding valleys and the distant Arabian Sea. Visitors can explore the deer park, trek through the tropical forests, or relax by the Golden Valley. Ponmudi is also known for its diverse butterfly population.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 53.7 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
5. Idukki
Photo: Shaji0508 / Wikimedia Commons
Idukki, renowned for its massive arch dam and wildlife sanctuary, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and engineering marvels. The district is home to numerous hill stations, including Munnar and Thekkady. Visitors can enjoy boating in the Idukki reservoir, surrounded by forested hills, or explore the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. The region is famous for its spice plantations, particularly cardamom. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Meesapulimala, the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats. With its misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and sprawling tea estates, Idukki provides a refreshing escape into nature’s lap.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 214 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Summer In Kerala
6. Vagamon
Photo: Anand2202 / Wikimedia Commons
Vagamon, an enchanting hill station in central Kerala, is known for its pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This hidden gem features rolling hills, verdant meadows, and pine forests which makes it a must on your Kerala’s hill station list. Visitors can explore the three hills of Thangal, Murugan, and Kurisumala, each representing different religious faiths. The area offers excellent opportunities for paragliding, trekking, and rock climbing. Vagamon’s landscape is dotted with tea plantations, waterfalls, and quaint villages.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 182 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
7. Peermedu
Photo: Soman / Wikimedia Commons
Peermedu, also known as Peermade, is a serene hill station in the Idukki district. Named after Sufi saint Peer Muhammad, this town boasts a rich colonial history evident in its architecture. Surrounded by rubber, tea, and spice plantations, Peermedu offers a cool climate and misty landscapes. Visitors can explore the Thrissanku Hills, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, or visit the nearby Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The region is known for its therapeutic climate and is home to several Ayurvedic resorts.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 173 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Kerala
8. Malampuzha
Photo: Wikicd24 / Wikimedia Commons
Malampuzha, located near Palakkad, is a picturesque destination known for its dam and gardens. While not a traditional hill station, it’s surrounded by the Western Ghats, offering a cool climate and scenic beauty. The Malampuzha Dam, the largest reservoir in Kerala, provides stunning views and boating opportunities. Visitors can enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens, featuring a ropeway, an amusement park, and a famous ‘yakshi’ (female nature spirit) sculpture. The nearby Kava viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the dam and surrounding hills.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 352 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
9. Gavi
Photo: Dipu TR / Wikimedia Commons
Gavi, an ecotourism destination within the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is a hidden paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This remote hill station offers pristine forests, rolling hills, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can engage in activities like trekking, wildlife watching, and canoeing on the Gavi Lake. The area is home to numerous bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s delight. Overnight stays in eco-lodges or tents provide an immersive forest experience. Gavi’s untouched beauty, misty mountains, and cardamom plantations create a serene atmosphere.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 184 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
Suggested Read: Water Sports In Kerala
10. Athirappally
Photo: Dil Shad Roshan / Wikimedia Commons
While Athirappally is primarily known for its majestic waterfall rather than being a hill station, it’s surrounded by the lush Sholayar hills, offering a cool climate and scenic beauty. The Athirappally Falls, often called the “Niagara of India,” plunges 80 feet through thick forest, creating a spectacular sight. The nearby Vazhachal Falls and Charpa Falls add to the region’s allure. With its stunning natural beauty, Athirappally provides a perfect blend of scenic vistas and adventure opportunities.
Distance From Thiruvananthapuram: 262 km
How To Reach: Via road or taxi
Hill stations in Kerala, with their breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and serene ambience, offer the perfect escape for travellers seeking both adventure and tranquillity. From the tea gardens of Munnar to the scenic beauty of Wayanad, these destinations provide unique experiences that cater to all preferences. Ready to explore the charm of Kerala’s hill stations? Plan your perfect getaway with TripXL and experience customised travel packages tailored to your desires.
Cover Photo: Jan Joseph George / Wikimedia Commons
