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Are you craving an escape brimming with natural beauty, cultural treasures, and unforgettable experiences? Look no further than Kerala, one of India’s most captivating destinations. Forget the well-trodden tourist path – there are places to visit in Kerala that offer a kaleidoscope of adventures, from tranquil backwaters to verdant hill stations, pristine beaches fringed with swaying palms, and a rich tapestry of history and tradition. Picture yourself basking on sun-drenched beaches, the rhythmic caress of waves providing the soundtrack to your relaxation. Kerala caters to every desire, promising a unique backdrop for every dream vacation. So, pack your bags and get ready to unlock the secrets of Kerala!
15 Charming Places To Visit In Kerala
From serene backwaters to lush hill stations and relaxing beaches, Kerala offers something for every traveller’s soul. Here’s a glimpse of 15 places to visit in Kerala, each offering its unique charm:
1. Kochi
Photo: Fsquares (The Ibrahims) / Wikimedia Commons
Kochi, the heart of Kerala, is a city bustling with history and spices. Fort Kochi, a charming place lined with colourful buildings that hint at its Portuguese past, is worth visiting. You can hunt for bargains in the exciting spice markets and then step back in time at Mattancherry Palace to learn about Kerala’s seafaring days. Don’t miss the unique fishing nets hanging by the shore, and soak up the peaceful vibes at the Santa Cruz Basilica and Paradesi Synagogue. You can also enjoy a cruise along Kerala’s longest lake, Vembanad!
Major Attractions: Mattancherry Palace, Santa Cruz Basilica, Paradesi Synagogue, Chinese Fishing Nets, Spice Markets
Nearest Airport: Ernakulam’s Cochin International Airport
Suggested Read: Picturesque Places To Visit In Kochi For A Scenic Retreat
2. Munnar
Photo: Wayfaring passenger / Wikimedia Commons
The well-known south Indian hill station of Munnar is a beautiful place to enjoy natural beauty through its sprawling tea plantations and carpeted emerald green. You can trek through misty trails, breathe in the refreshing mountain air, and witness panoramic views from Echo Point and the enchanting Photo Point. Don’t miss a visit to the Kundala Lake, ideal for a scenic boat ride, or Eravikulam National Park, where you might spot the endangered Nilgiri tahr.
Major Attractions: Munnar Tea Plantations, Echo Point, Photo Point, Kundala Lake, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Attukad Waterfalls
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 110 kilometres away
3. Thiruvananthapuram
Photo: MainlyTwelve / Wikimedia Commons
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala’s capital city, is brimming with history, culture, and nature. You can immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a marvel of Dravidian architecture and explore the Napier Museum, a treasure trove of Kerala’s past. Don’t forget to take a refreshing stroll through the serenity of Kanakakunnu Palace Gardens. For a dose of nature, head to the Veli Tourist Village for watersports or unwind on the pristine shores of Shankumugham Beach.
Major Attractions: Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Kanakakunnu Palace, Chalai Market, Veli Tourist Village, Shankumugham Beach
Nearest Airport: International Airport of Trivandrum, approximately 10 km
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Trivandrum
4. Alappuzha Beach
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
Alappuzha Beach offers a delightful mix of relaxation and cultural immersion — the beach beckons with golden sands, perfect for picnics and strolls. History buffs will be drawn to the 137-year-old pier jutting into the sea, a silent sentinel standing guard over the coast. Explore the nearby Vijaya Beach Park with its vibrant entertainment options for a touch of excitement. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at the old lighthouse, a captivating reminder of the area’s rich past. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the perfect escape from the sun’s heat, allowing you to thoroughly soak in the charm of Alappuzha Beach.
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha.
5. Cherai Beach
Photo: Edukeralam / Wikimedia Commons
Escape the hustle-bustle of the city by discovering serenity at Cherai Beach. Nestled on the shores of Vypeen Island, Kerala, this beach is a swimmer’s paradise. Bathe in the crystal-clear waters with a backdrop of swaying coconut groves and witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. After a refreshing swim, you can reward yourself with delicious local fare from the beachside shacks. Cherai Beach offers a tranquil escape, perfect for those seeking relaxation under the Kerala sun.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 20 km
Suggested Read: Beaches In Kerala
6. Varkala Beach
Photo: Devender Goyal / Wikimedia Commons
Varkala, a serene village near Thiruvananthapuram, offers a captivating blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. The star attraction is undoubtedly the beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, which translates to “remover of sins”. Legend has it that a dip in these sacred waters washes away sins, thus giving the beach its name. The 2,000-year-old Vishnu Temple will enthral history buffs, while those seeking spiritual enlightenment can find solace at the Ashram – Sivagiri Mutt, a short distance away. Varkala promises a unique experience where tranquillity meets rich heritage.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 57 km away
7. Kozhikode Beach
Photo: GXR441 / Wikimedia Commons
Steeped in history as the landing site of Vasco da Gama and the birthplace of the Spice Route, Kozhikode pulsates with a rich historical background. The Kozhikode Beach isn’t just a scenic stretch of sand; it’s a window into the city’s soul. At sunset, the shore transforms into a sea of colours, attracting crowds of visitors. Foodies can indulge in the freshest seafood at the beachside shacks, where the local favourite like ‘Kallumekkaya’ (Mussels) is a must-try. And for the early risers, a walk at Dolphin’s Point promises a playful encounter with these delightful creatures.
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport, about 29 km
Suggested Read: Beaches In Alleppey
8. Periyar National Park
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Periyar National Park, a jewel of Kerala, lives up to its stunning visuals. Biodiversity thrives here, with tigers reigning supreme as the park’s crown jewels. Lush landscapes and captivating wildlife draw adventurers and nature lovers from across the globe. You can cruise on Periyar Lake, surrounded by vibrant greenery, and spot majestic elephants, or trek through exotic flora or take a thrilling jeep safari. Escape into the wildness of the Periyar jungle, where every twist in the path promises an unforgettable experience.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport is around 140 kilometres from Periyar
9. Bekal Fort, Kasaragod
Photo: Renjithks / Wikimedia Commons
Kerala’s northernmost region holds a hidden gem: Bekal Fort. This impeccably maintained fortress stands guard over the 16 km Kasaragod coastline. Built with laterite slabs on a sprawling 35-kilometre headland, it is 130 feet above the sea level. Bekal Fort beach stretches beside the fort and is a major crowd-pleaser, while the fort offers majestic views from its hilltop perch. Its unique polygonal shape makes it a captivating landmark, attracting visitors to explore its rich history.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 70 km
Suggested Read: Forts In Kerala
10. Kumarakom
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
Kumarakom is a true paradise and is one of the places to visit in Kerala with a maze of backwaters with glistening waters, the vivid green of mangrove forests, and coconut trees lining the embankments! It comprises islands on Lake Vembanad’s eastern shore, a significant stopover for most of these tourists annually. Compared to the surrounding settlements, the lake reaches its maximum length and breadth of approximately 8 kilometres near Kumarakom. Situated on one side of a massive lake and traversed by a system of serene canals, this well-known backwater hub for tourists is an artificial marvel that occupies a special place on the Kerala map.
Major Attractions: Kumarakom Backwaters, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Beach, Vembanad Lake, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall, Pathiramanal Island, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 80 kilometres away.
11. Silent Valley National Park
Photo: NISHAD.K.SALEEM / Wikimedia Commons
Silent Valley National Park in Palakkad is among the best places to visit in Kerala for nature lovers. Spread across the Western Ghats, it is home to rare wildlife including the lion-tailed macaque and Nilgiri langur. The park opens from 6:45 AM to 2:45 PM, except Fridays, with jeep safaris running from morning till early afternoon. October to March is the best season to explore its lush landscapes. Counted among the unique tourist places in Kerala, it offers a truly serene escape.
Major Attractions: Sairandhri Watch Tower, Kunthipuzha River, Rich Flora and Fauna, Trekking Trails
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
Suggested Read: Anamudi Shola National Park
12. Nelliyampathy Hills
Photo: Shino jacob koottanad / Wikimedia Commons
Nelliyampathy Hills, tucked in Kerala’s Palakkad district, is a peaceful retreat amid rolling tea and coffee plantations and vibrant orange orchards. The winding roads leading up the hills reveal stunning vistas of valleys and forests, making the journey as memorable as the destination. Trekking trails and viewpoints like Seetharkundu offer breathtaking panoramas, while the forests teem with wildlife, from elephants to exotic birds. This serene hill station is one of the top places to visit in Kerala with family, showcasing some of the best tourist attractions in Kerala.
Major Attractions: Pothundy Dam, Seetharkundu Viewpoint, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Tea Plantations, Waterfalls
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
13. Gavi
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Gavi, located in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is one of the most serene Kerala tourist places, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Surrounded by lush forests and cardamom plantations, it offers trekking, wildlife spotting, boating, and camping experiences. Visitors can spot rare birds and animals while enjoying tranquil lake rides or staying in eco-friendly lodges. This untouched haven is ideal for groups, making it one of the best places to visit in Kerala with friends, especially between September and February.
Major Attractions: Gavi Eco-Tourism, Periyar Wildlife, Trekking Trails, Shola Forests, Bamboo Rafting
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Suggested Read: Popular Places To Visit In Gavi For Your Next South India Trip
14. Chettuva Backwater
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Chettuva Backwaters, situated around 10 km south of Guruvayur in Thrissur, is one of the most peaceful places for a Kerala trip. This scenic stretch flows from Enamakkal Lake to the Arabian Sea, winding through mangroves, coconut groves, and small islands. Visitors can enjoy boat rides from Vettakkorumakan, spotting migratory birds and traditional fishing activities like Chinese nets and mussel harvesting. The best time to visit is November to February, when cool, dry weather makes exploring the backwaters and nearby attractions truly delightful.
Major Attractions: Chettuva Fort, Backwater Canals, Fishing Villages, Coconut Groves, Boat Rides
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
15. Ponmudi
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Ponmudi, known as the “Golden Peak,” is a peaceful hill station in Kerala’s Western Ghats, about 55 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Famous for its winding roads, 22 hairpin bends, and lush greenery, it offers a cool retreat from the tropical heat. At around 1,100 metres, the mild climate makes trekking, sightseeing, and nature walks a delight. Key attractions include Meenmutty and Mankayam waterfalls, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, and scenic viewpoints. Ponmudi is one of the charming places to visit in Kerala, especially between November and March.
Major Attractions: Meenmutty Falls, Golden Valley, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Tea Gardens, Trekking Trails
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Suggested Read: Bеst Placеs To Visit In Ponmudi For An Idеal Trip
Kerala’s breathtaking landscape unfolds like a living tapestry. From verdant jungles and hills to cascading waterfalls and pristine beaches like Kovalam and Varkala, there are several places to visit in Kerala. Here, your dream vacation to Kerala becomes a reality. Let TripXL handle the logistics, crafting a remarkable journey that will leave you with memories to cherish forever.
Cover Photo: mehul.antani / Wikimedia Commons
