Best Tourist Places in Kerala

lso known as God's Own Country, the southern Indian state of Kerala entices tourists worldwide. Nestled between Western ghats and the Arabian sea, Kerala offers the perfect cure for wanderlust. This heavenly abode brings an overwhelming blend of green mountains, quaint backwaters, and exotic beaches to the plate.

To make your vacation a trip to remember, here is a list of famous places to visit in Kerala.

While planning a trip to Kerala, make sure you get to see the most beautiful hills, beaches, and backwaters of the tropical paradise. This way, you will not miss the mist and magic of this state.

To simplify your vacation plan, here are 20 blissful places you will not want to miss on your trip.

1. Alleppey Backwaters

Alleppey or Alappuzha should be on anyone’s list of places to visit in Kerala. Cruising over the tranquil backwaters surrounded by coconut trees and paddy fields on both sides is a relaxing experience. You can rent a 'Shikara' for a few hours or spend an entire day in a houseboat.

The modern houseboats are remodelled versions of traditional Kettuvellams. These houseboats provide all the modern amenities one can ask for.

• Best time to visit Alleppey Backwaters: November to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 days
• Average Expense: ₹  2433 per day per person
• Places to Visit: Vembanad lake, Marari Beach, Alleppey Beach, St. Mary's Forane Church, Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple
• Things to Do: Sail in houseboats, go kayaking, experience sunset on beaches, watch snake boat race and opt for a rejuvenating spa.

How to Reach

• By Road: You may rent a cab from Kochi, or Kerala Tourism Buses provide service from other parts of Kerala to Alleppey.
• By Train: You can access Alappuzha Railway Station, which is within the limits of the city.
• By Air: Kochi International Airport is the nearest airport to Alappuzha.

2. Kochi/ Ernakulam

Ernakulam, Kochi or Port Cochin, is considered the gateway to Kerala. This Queen of Arabian Sea welcomes is a perfect vacation spot for history buffs and beach lovers.

The lanes of Kochi narrates the tales of French, Dutch and British colonies. As a visitor, you can visit the famous heritage sites, temples and churches of Kochi to learn about their interesting history.

• Best time to visit Kochi: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 days
• Average Expense: ₹  1200- 1500 per trip per person
• Places to Visit in Kochi: Vasco Da Gama Square, Jewish Synagogue, Ballisca of Santa Cruz, Chinese Fishing Nets, Andhakaranzi Beach
• Things to Do in Kochi: Visit the old churches, stand in front of the tomb of Vasco Da Gama, walk through lanes, explore Jewish Synagogues and relish the Jewish delicacies.

How to Reach

• By Road: Kochi is easily accessible by national highways connecting it to all major South Indian states.
• By Train: Ernakulam Railway station connects Kochi with all major cities of South India
• By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport here.

3. Thekkady

Also known as the Spice capital of India, Thekkady is another place to visit in Kerala for nature lovers. Periyar lake and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary are two of the prime attractions here.

Along with looking at the different species of animals and birds, one can enjoy unique species of coffee and spices when in Thekkady. Whether a relaxing or adventurous vacation, Thekkady never stops surprising the tourists.

• Best time to visit Thekkady: October to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 7,525 per person for 2 Nights/3 Days
• Places to Visit in Thekkady: Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, Pandikuzhi, Murrikady, Periyar National Park and Periyar Tiger Trail
• Things to Do in Thekkady: Explore spice markets, visit the wildlife sanctuary, take an elephant ride, discover small villages and go on a jungle safari.

How to Reach: 

• By Road: Buses are available to travel to Thekkady from other states.
• By Train: Kottayam is the nearest Railway station to Thekkady.
• By Air: Madurai Domestic Airport in Tamil Nadu is the nearest airport to Thekkady.

4. Munnar

With roads amidst lust tea gardens on both sides, Munnar is a famous place in Kerala you should visit. The picturesque scenery with lofty clouds, beautiful mountains and rolling hills make it a memorable vacation.

Take in the beauty of the lush green hills amidst the clouds while sipping your hot masala chai. However, if you are feeling adventurous, you can try trekking, camping and boating activities.

• Best time to visit Munnar: November to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 3-4 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,959 per person per day
• Places to Visit in Munnar: Chokramudi Peak, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, Echo Point, Pothamedu Viewpoint
• Things to Do in Munnar: Explore Keralian cuisine, visit tea estates, view Munnar hills from viewpoints, and photograph animals in their natural habitat.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Rent a cab from Kochi to Munnar. You can also book your seat on state-run buses from various towns of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• By Train: Eranakulam Junction (Kochi) is the nearest railway station to Munnar.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport.

5. Thrissur

Previously known as Trichur, Thrissur is recognised as the cultural capital of Kerala. This historical capital kingdom of Kochi is relevant for historical, cultural and religious knowledge.

Thrissur is home to many megalith relics of the Neolithic period, proving this city to have the oldest human settlements. The vibrant Pooram festival also attracts tourists from all around the globe to Thrissur.

• Best time to visit Thrissur : December to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 18,000 for 6 Nights / 7  Days
• Places to Visit in Thrissur: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Chavakkad beach, Kerala Kalamandalam, Lourdes Cathedral and Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna temple
• Things to Do in Thrissur: Seek blessings in temples, watch vibrant dance forms of Kerala, indulge in beach activities, visit churches, cathedrals, palaces and old ruins.

How to Reach

• By Road: You can rent cabs from Kochi, Mallapuram, and Pallakad to reach Thrissur.
• By Train: Thrissur railway station is the nearest railway station.
• By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Thrissur.

6. Kovalam Beach

Kovalam is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. Here, you will get to experience the vibrant colour play of sand, sea, rocky terrain, and coconut trees.

With crescent beaches and warm sand, Kovalam is a small town set on the coastline of Arabian sea. This place, with its exotic beaches, water sports and panoramic views of the horizon, is a haven for beach lovers.

• Best time to visit Kovalam Beach: November to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 14,999 per adult for 5 Nights / 6 days
• Places to Visit: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, Padmanabhaswami Temple, Kovalam Beach, Samudra Beach
• Things to Do in Kovalam Beach: Climb up the lighthouse to watch a sunset, Indulge in water sports, try delicious seafood, have a spa and a massage and sightseeing tour around Kovalam.

How to Reach:

• By Road: You can access inter-state buses from cities in Kerala or other south Indian states like Chennai, Bangalore and Madurai.
• By Train: Trivandrum station connects Thiruvananthapuram with other cities of Kerala and outside. Rent a cab, taxi, rickshaw or auto from here to reach Kovalam
• By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is situated here that connects Kovalam with all other Indian states and outside

7. Wayanad

One of the famous places to visit in Kerala is Wayanad. The English translation of Wayanad is the "land of paddy fields." Wayanad welcomes tourists with cool weather and abundant waterfalls, spice gardens, caves and lakes. Tourists can also indulge in several adventure sports as well.

Wayanad is also the home to the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once in 12 years.

• Best time to visit Wayanad: October to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 7,500 per adult for 2 Nights / 3 Days
• Places to Visit in Wayanad: Pookode Lake, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Eddakal caves, Wayanad  Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam
• Things to Do in Wayanad: Take boat rides on lakes, explore coffee and tea plantations, visit spice gardens, trek to caves and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

How to Reach

• By Road: Rent a cab or taxi from Calicut.
• By Train: Nilambur Station is the nearest railway station to Wayanad
• By Air:  Calicut International Airport is nearest to Wayanad

8. Thiruvananthapuram

The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum, is a haven for beach lovers. Welcoming tourists from all over the world, Thiruvananthapuram poses as a perfect blend of rural and urban life.

With exotic beaches, resorts, roadside bars and cafés, this city is bliss for solo or honeymoon trips.

• Best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 3-4 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 2,799 per adult per day
• Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram: Kanakakkunu Palace, Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam Beach, Arruvy Waterfalls, Anchuthengu Fort
• Things to Do in Thiruvananthapuram: Relax on beaches, try out water sports, try delicious seafood, visit temples, explore the fort palace and lighthouses.

How to Reach:

• By Road: It is connected to major cities with national highways.
• By Train: Trivandrum Railway station is located here.
• By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is situated here.

9. Kozhikode

Earlier known as Calicut, Kozhikode is a perfect place for nature and history lovers. Kozhikode is where the European explorer Vasco Da Gama first landed and discovered trade routes to India.

Situated near the Malabar coast, you can explore beautiful beaches, historic spots, waterfalls, temples, and churches in Kozhikode.

• Best time to visit Kozhikode: June to September
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 3 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 11,000 per adult for 6 Nights / 7 Days
• Places to Visit in Kozhikode: Kakkayam Dam, Vayalada, Kozhikode Beach, Kariyathumpara and Payyoli Dam
• Things to Do in Kozhikode: Enjoy beach activities, stroll the city, witness backwater experiences, and relish sweet dishes.

How to Reach

• By Road: Several buses are available to reach Calicut from all neighbouring cities.
• By Train: Quilandi Railway station is nearest station to Kozhikode.
• By Air: Calicut International Airport is situated in the city.

10. Kannur

Off the Malabar coast lies this picture-perfect beach town of Kannur. Also known as the Crown of Kerala, Kannur provides an exotic vacation vibe to tourists. Monuments and paintings in this town resonate with historical tales of Dutch, French and English colonies.

Besides sunbathing on beaches, tourists can take a city tour to relive the past. Kannur also hosts cashew plantations which also makes it one of the places to visit in Kerala.

• Best Time to Visit Kannur: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2days
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,500 per adult per day
• Places to Visit in Kannur: Muzhapilangad Beach, St Angelo Fort, Payyambalam Beach, Baby Beach, and Kannur Lighthouse
• Things to Do in Kannur: Banana boat ride, trekking, bike tours, visiting palaces and forts and relaxing on the beaches.

How to Reach

• By Road: Board state-run buses or rent a cab from any part of Kerala to reach here. 
• By Train: Kannur Railway Station is situated in this city.
• By Air: Kannur International Airport is located here.

11. Kumarakom

Situated near the Vembanad beach, Kumarakom is one of the beautiful places in Kerala you may want to visit. Travellers visit the islands of Kumarakom to gaze at the scenic beauty of its beautiful backwaters and local flora/fauna.

From Ayurvedic massage to birdwatching in sanctuaries, there is much to do in Kumarakom.

• Best time to visit Kumarakom: September to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 3 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 9,900 per adult for 2 Nights / 3 Days
• Places to Visit in Kumarakom: Thazhathangadi Valiapalli, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Bay Island Driftwood, Jatayu Rock and Kottayam
• Things to Do in Kumarakom: Snorkeling, bird watching, spas, houseboat rides and water polo.

How to Reach

• By Road: State-run buses ply between Kumarakom to Kottayam.
• By Train: Kottayam Railway station is nearest to Kumarakom.
• By Air: Kochi Airport is nearest to this city.

12. Vagamon

Wagamon or Vagamon is a tranquil offbeat hill station near Munnar. Misty valleys, meandering streams, tea plantations and a pleasant climate make Vagamon a beautiful place to visit in Kerala.

If you are a thrill seeker, there are a multitude of trekking experiences and sports activities here. For those wishing to chill, this enchanting valley will keep you relaxed.

• Best Time to Visit Vagamon: Throughout the year
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 8,500 per adult for 2 Nights / 3 Days
• Places to Visit in Vagamon: Dales and meadows of Vagamon, Vagamon Falls, Kursimala, Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary and Pine Hill
• Things to Do in Vagamon: Off-road hiking, paragliding, trekking, visiting spice gardens and shopping for spices and local chocolates.

How to Reach

• By Road: You can board a bus from Kottayam to Vagamon. You can also rent cabs to reach here from Kochi.
• By Train: Kottayam railway station is nearest to Vagamon.
• By Air: You can rent cabs to Vagamon from Kochi International Airport.

13. Kumily

The quiet town of Kumily lies on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Various recreational activities, plantations, Kalari centres and wildlife sanctuaries attract nature and art lovers.

The town is the nearest stop to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, so you can get accommodations here. Other nearby attractions include the Peermede hill station and the Tribal Heritage Museum.

• Best Time to Visit Kumily: September to April
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: Not available
• Places to Visit in Kumily: Periyar National Park, Thekkady Lake, Kadathanadan Kalari Center, Abraham Spice Garden
• Things to Do in Kumily: Watch Kalari, walk by plantations, visit spic gardens, trekking and elephant rides.

How to Reach

• By Road: Rent a cab from any city in Kerala to reach Kumily.
• By Train: Kottayam Railway Station is nearest to Kumily.
• By Air:  Once at Kochi International Airport, rent a cab from here to reach Kumily.

14. Idukki

The small district of Idukki rests on the Western Ghats, away from the hustle and bustle of cities. Idukki is distinct for its rocky topography and thick vegetation. The rivers Periyar, Thalaya and Thodupuzhayar and their distributaries keep the surrounding lush green.

Lagoons, cascading waterfalls, calm rivers, and quaint nature here will surely steal your breath away. The most beautiful hill stations of Kerala fall under Idukki district.

• Best time to visit Idukki: November to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 6,000 per adult for 2 Nights / 3 Days
• Places to Visit in Idukki: Anamudi hills, Marayur, Idukki Arch Dam, Anchuruli Waterfalls, Vagamon
• Things to Do in Idukki:  Visit sandalwood forests, drive through hills, experience the hills from viewpoints, venture into tea and rubber plantations and try the local street foods.

How to Reach

• By Road: Rent a cab or taxi from Kochi. Estimated time from Kochi is 3 hours 26 minutes.
• By Train: Nearest station to Idukki is Ernakulam railway station.
• By Air: Cochin International Airport is nearest to Idukki.

15. Varkala

Varkala is surely one of the best places to visit in Kerela for its exquisite vistas. This place is adorned with pilgrimage sites, forts, natural sceneries, springs etc. Additionally, Varkala beach is one of the top spots here, where you can enjoy amazing  sunsets and enjoy tranquil times with your loved ones.

• Best time to visit Varkala: October to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 3 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 11,000 per adult for 2 Nights / 3 Days
• Places to Visit in Varkala: Kappil Beach, Varkala beach, Janardhan Swami temple, Ponnumthuruthu Island and Odayam Beach
• Things to Do in Varkala: Try local cuisine, explore Kilimannor Palace, climb up the lighthouse, bow down to divinity in temples and indulge in thrilling watersports.

How to Reach

• By Road: State-run buses of Kerala Tourism can take you to Varkala.
• By Train: Trivandrum Railway station is closest to Varkala.
• By Air: Trivandrum International Airport in Thiruvananthapuram is closest to this beach town.

16. Poovar

Poovar is a perfect honeymoon destination in Kerala. The Golden Sand Beach of Poovar is a sandbar rising between the Arabian Sea and quaint backwaters.

You can rent a motor boat and sail past mangrove-laden backwaters to reach Golden Sand beach. Huge waves and shades of blue on the Arabian Sea welcome you here. You can even book a floating cottage or resort in the backwaters of Poovar.

• Best time to visit Poovar: October to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2-3 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 6,599 per adult for 2 Nights / 3 Days
• Places to Visit in Poovar: Golden Sand beach, Thikotti Light House, Thiruparappu Falls, Kozhipara, Poovar backwaters
• Things to Do in Poovar: Boat cruises to backwaters, birdwatching, relaxing in resorts, shopping, and relishing Ayurvedic massage treatments.

How to Reach

• By  Road: You can rent a cab or state-run bus services to reach Poovar from any part of Kerala.
• By Train: Trivandrum railway station connects Poovar to most major cities of India.
• By Air: Trivandrum Airport in Thiruvananthapuram is the nearest airport to Poovar.

17. Munroe Island

For the seekers of tranquillity, Monroe Island is a must-visit. Munrow Island refers to a cluster of 8 small islands interconnected by narrow canals of turquoise water. Coconut plantations that cover much of this island provide a peaceful ambience to visitors.

Kallada boat race during the 10-day-long festival of Onam is a major attraction here.

• Best time to visit Munroe Island: November to February
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 500 per adult (entry fee)
• Places to Visit in Munroe Island: Kakathuruthu, Munroe Island Canal, Kallada River, Santa Cruz Basilica, and Ashtamudi Lake
• Things to Do in Munroe Island: Island hopping, bird watching, enjoying the amusement park, witnessing snake boat races and watching Kathakali performances.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Rent a taxi from Kollam Railway Station.
• By Train: Munroe Island's own train, Munroeturuttu, is the easiest and cheapest way from Kollam (20 minutes ride).
• By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International airport is nearest to Munroe Islands.

18. Kuttanad

Also known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala, Kuttanad is still untouched by modernity. The tranquil ambience, coconut groves and paddy fields across backwaters attract visitors for a relaxing vacation.

This is a beautiful place to visit in Kerala for tourists wishing to experience Kerala's authentic culture closely.

• Best time to visit Kuttanad: August to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: ₹ 1,500 per adult per day
• Places to Visit in Kuttanad: Bhagawathi Temple, Backwaters, Chavara Bhawan, Achankovil River and Meenachil Rivers
• Things to Do in Kuttanad: Sail through backwaters, visit churches and temples, take a walking tour around Kuttanad, and relish authentic dishes of Kerala.

How to Reach:

• By Road: You can avail car or bus services from Alleppey.
• By Train: Nearest railway stations are in Allepey and Changanacherry.
• By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest to Kuttanad.

19. Ponnani

Also known as the 'Mecca of India', Ponnani sets an example of cultural harmony. Several important mosques mark this small town with beaches overlooking the blue Arabian Sea. Jumma Masjid, built in 1510 AD, is the oldest and most prominent. Ponnani hosts many migratory birds making this town a wonderful plethora of flora and fauna. 

Vibrant with diverse culture and natural beauty, Ponnani is one of the best places to visit in Kerala for birdwatchers.

• Best Time to Visit Ponnani: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Average Expense: Not available
• Places to Visit in Ponnani: Juma Masjid, Ponnani Lighthouse, Padinjarekkara Beach, and Navamukumda Temple
• Things to Do in Ponnani: Bird watching, touring across the town and witnessing flora and fauna.

How to Reach

• By Road: You can board a taxi from neighbouring cities to reach Ponnani.
• By Train: The Chennagur Railway Station is the nearest to Ponnani.
• By Air: Trivandrum Airport is the nearest airport here.

20. Devikulam

“The lake where Goddess bathe” or Devikulam is an essential pilgrim spot for Hindus. According to Ramayana, Goddess Sita took a bath in the lake of Devikulam. Thus, enhancing religious significance of this place.

With cascading waterfalls, tea plantations, lakes and velvet meadows, Devikulam is among the famous places to visit in Kerala.

• Best Time to Visit Devikulam: November to May
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Average Expense: Not available
• Places to Visit in Devikulam: Devi lake, Hill View Park, Meesapulimala, Anayiranakal Lake, and Attala Rock Shelter
• Things to Do in Devikulam: Take a walking tour in the meadows, visit tea and spice plantations, and explore the sacred lake.

How to Reach

• By Road: State-run buses will take you to Devikulam from Kottayam, Munnar and Kochi.
• By Train: You can access Devikulam from Kottayam Railway Station.
• By Air: Kochi Airport is nearest to Devikulam.