19 Popular Places To Visit In Kerala That Will Bring You Close To Nature

No other place in India can be compared to the heavenly beauty of God’s Own Country, Kerala. Nestled on tropical Malabar Coast with a coastline stretching to around 600 km, Kerala offers a tropical getaway and a heavenly retreat amidst nature. The lush green valleys, picturesque backwaters, laid-back hamlets, mesmerizing hill stations, exotic wildlife, aromatic spice gardens and a lot more makes Kerala one of the best Indian destinations be it for a honeymoon or a family vacation. With so many enchanting places to visit in Kerala, it becomes really difficult for tourist to decide which one to explore, hence we have made this list of the best tourist places to visit here for a mesmerizing vacation in the lap of nature.

Top 19 Places To Visit In Kerala For A Soulful Experience

There are so many amazing places to visit in Kerala, so for the ease of travelers, we have curated this list to help them plan their itinerary.

1. Wayanad - Known For Its Misty Valleys

One of the best tourist places in Kerala is definitely Wayanad which is a laid-back destination known for its pleasant weather throughout the year. Kiss nature in its purest form in Wayanad where the sky is dominated by misty mountains and land with lush green spice estates and dense woods that looks spectacular. Owing to the natural beauty, you will also find various national parks, reserve areas and sanctuaries in Wayanad which are worth a visit.

Best Time to Visit: March to September

Ideal Duration: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Karipur International Airport

Popular Attractions: Banasura Hill, Papanashini River, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Pookode Lake, Kuruva Island, Chembra Peak

Things to Do: Go on for spice garden tour, boating on Pookode Lake, bamboo rafting, camping and cycling

Best Places to Stay: LakeRose Wayanad Resort, Sterling Wayanad, The Porch Inn Wayanad, Arayal Resorts Wayanad, Silent Creek Resort and Spa, Mount Xanadu Resort

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2. Alleppey – Known For Its Exquisite Backwaters

One of the finest places to see in Kerala, Alleppey is a surreal destination that is also known as the Venice of the East for its stunning backwaters. Alleppey is a gem of nature that is known for its serene houseboat stays, lush green surroundings, dense woods and laid-back ambience. It is also known for its coir industry and also for hosting various race events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Ideal Duration: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Kochi Airport

Popular Attractions: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, Vembanad Lake, Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple, Mullakkal Rajeshwari Temple, Punnapra Beach

Things to Do: Explore various temples, enjoy a serene stay in a houseboat, indulge in a rejuvenating spa session, enjoy beach activities, shop for coir products

Best Places to Stay: Colonel's Beach Villa, Chaandhni Lake View, Time Square Boutique Hotel, Casa Evelyn Sea Side Inn, Lake Palace Resort, Lake Canopy

3. Munnar - Known For Its Lush Green Tea Estates

One of the most beautiful places in Kerala, Munnar is famous destination in Kerala known for its lush green aromatic tea estates, misty valleys and year-round pleasant weather. Munnar is an idyllic hill station and also one of the best honeymoon destinations in Asia as the ambience of the whole place is lit and charming. Munnar is also a popular trekking and camping site as the pristine valleys and rocky terrains of Munnar offer a perfect opportunity for various adventures.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Kochi Airport

Popular Attractions: Blossom Park, TATA Tea Museum, Kundala Lake, Attukal Waterfalls, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi, Pothamedu View Point

Things to Do: Take a tour of the spice gardens, trek to the Echo Point, enjoy boating at Kundala Lake, admire views from Pothamedu View Point

Best Places to Stay: Grand Plaza Munnar, Elysium Gardens Hill Resorts, Tea County Munnar, Amber Dale Luxury Hotel and Spa, Chandys Windy Woods, Blanket Hotel & Spa

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4. Kovalam - Known For Its Serene Beaches

In the list of Kerala tourist places, Kovalam tops our list which is known for its bountiful beauty and serene beaches. It also houses some of the best hotels in India and also beach resorts that are known to offer the best ayurvedic treatments and spa massages. Admire the stunning sunset views from the scenic beaches of Kovalam or indulge in thrilling adventures. Not just the serene beaches, a number of Hindu Temples can also be found here.

Best Time to Visit: September to May

Ideal Duration: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport

Popular Attractions: Hawah Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Vellayani Lake, Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple, Halcyon Castle, Samudra Beach, Valiyathura Pier

Things to Do: Indulge in a relaxing ayurvedic treatment, enjoy houseboat cruise, witness the beauty of Lighthouse beach, indulge in thrilling water sports

Best Places to Stay: Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa, Hotel Samudra (KTDC), Gokulam Turtle on the Beach, Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Turtle on the Beach

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5. Kumarakom - Known For Breathtaking Landscapes

One of the best places to visit in the world in April, Kumarakom is another backwater destination in Kerala that is known to offer a tranquil holiday experience amidst the natural beauty. Located on the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is adorned with lush green landscapes and surreal ambience which is just perfect for a laid-back holiday experience. The heavenly beauty of Kumarakom makes it one of the best places to visit in Kerala.

Best Time to Visit: September to May

Ideal Duration: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Kochi Airport

Popular Attractions: Aruvikkuzhi waterfall, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Beach, Vagamon

Things to Do: Enjoy backwaters, meet different bird species at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, trek to Aruvikkuzhi waterfall,

Best Places to Stay: Lakesong Resort, Kumarakom Lake Resort, Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa, The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa, Coconut Lagoon, Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters And Beyond

6. Kozhikode – Known For Beguiling History

One of the most famous places in Kerala, Kozhikode is a stunning place which is known for its enticing history as this was the first place where Vasco Da Gama first landed in India. The place has strong cultural and culinary influences. The historical places, museums and educational institutions found here strongly gives an insight into the British rule and other historical facts about the country.

Best Time to Visit: September to May

Ideal Duration: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Karipur International Airport

Popular Attractions: Thusharagiri Waterfalls, Tali Temple, Kappad Beach, Payyoli Beach, Kozhikode Beach, Hilite Mall

Things to Do: Enjoy various rides at Lion’s Park, visit Mishkal Mosque, enjoy swimming at Kozhikode beach, witness the beauty of Thusharagiri Waterfalls

Best Places to Stay: The Raviz Calicut, The Gateway Hotel Beach Road Kozhikode, Malabar Palace, Treebo Trend Casino Hotel

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7. Thekkady - Known For Exotic Species Of Fauna

If dense forests and exotic wildlife is something that fascinates you then Thekkady is the perfect place for you. One of the best Kerala tourist places, Thekkady offers myriad of adventures to tourists like trekking and camping. Thekkady’s most famous attraction, Periyar Tiger Reserve which is also one of the best places to visit in India for wildlife lovers where a great jungle safari experience can be enjoyed along with bird spotting.

Best Time to Visit: November to early May

Ideal Duration: 1 Day

Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport

Popular Attractions: Periyan Tiger Reserve, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, Periyar Lake, Ramakkalmedu, Periyar Tiger Trail

Things to Do: Jungle safari, trekking, nature walks, seek blessings at Mangla Devi Temple

Best Places to Stay: The Elephant Court, Greenwoods Resort, Hills & Hues, Peppervine Hotel, Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden

8. Vagamon - Known For Tranquil Aura

If you are looking for offbeat honeymoon places in the world, the Vagamon is the perfect place that will lure you with its tranquil aura. Away from the hustle and bustle of tourist places in Kerala, Vagamon is a nature’s delight offering lush green landscapes, misty valleys and serene ambience. The natural beauty of Vagamon and surreal environs makes it one of the most beautiful places in Kerala.

Best Time to Visit: March to May or December to February

Ideal Duration: 2 Days

Nearest Airport: Kochi International Airport

Popular Attractions: Vagamon Pine Forest, Barren Hills, Murugan Hill, Vagamon Lake, Marmala Waterfall, Idukki Dam, Pine Hill

Things to Do: Paragliding, camping, catch great views from Pine Hill, boating at Vagamon Lake

Best Places to Stay: Vagamon Heights, Le Collines Resort, Palette Hill View Resort Vagamon, Treebo Trend Adrak Summer Sand Hill Resort Vagamon

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9. Kochi- Known For Its Religious Houses

Situated on the southwest coast of India, Kochi is known for its strategic and industrial importance in foreign trade, built by the British Raj in India. Since the 19th century, it has been a major port and the starting point for discovering the diversity and beauty of Kerala. Surrounded by Munnar, the hill station, it has been rated in the list of top three tourist destinations. Tourists can travel through the backwaters of Kerala through the waterways flowing in the streams and lagoons of Kochi. People can enjoy fishing and have a picnic on an isolated camp for some peaceful time with nature. One of the most popular beaches offers a colonial-era feel and cool winds that calm the backpackers' nerves sailing or cycling across the city. Tourists should visit the religious houses like the British-era churches and forts that are now temples.

Best Time to Visit: October

Ideal Duration: 2 days

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

Popular Attractions: Cherai Beach, Mattancherry Palace, Hill Palace Museum, Churches and Temples

Things to Do: Picnic, Sailing, Cycling, Fishing

Best Places to Stay:  Chameleon, Niyati Boutique Stay, Sea Hut Home Stay, Palm Grove Service Villa

10. Kollam- Rich History And Culture Of Magic Nature

Do you want to see what the magic of nature is all about? The local town is filled with rich history and unique culture that is known for its magic of nature. Situated on the southwest coast of Kerala, tourists get to explore the hidden gems along with the seaport that has a rich past of Arabs, Chines, Dutch, Portuguese and British. The calm seashore, coconut palms, lush cashew plantations, and traditional villages are some of the things that describe Kollam's beauty. Punalur, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Karunagapally, Mayyanad, Ashtamudi Lake, Amritapuri, Pathanapuram, Aryankavu, and Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the most well-known places to explore in Kollam. With so much beauty at your doorstep, it is one of the best places to visit in October in the world. What are you waiting for? Pack those bags and have the best time of your life.

Best Time to Visit: October

Ideal Duration: 2 days

Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport

Popular Attractions: Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Beach, Thirumullavaram beach

Things to Do: Roam in houseboats, visit Kollam beach, take sunset boat cruise.

Best Places to Stay: The Raviz Ashtamudi, All Season's D'fort Ayurvedic Resort, Chandra Inn and Clouds Resort

11. Bekal- Known For Its Pristine Beaches, Backwaters And Historical Forts

With its pristine beaches, backwaters, and historical forts, Bekal is one of the most stunning places to visit in Kerala. It is blessed with stunning tourist attractions and natural beauty, which makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Sharing the borders with the shores of the Arabian Sea, the Nithyananda Ashram caves are a must-visit along with the Aqua Park, Bekal Fort, beaches, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Ananthapura Temple, Nileswaram, Hosdurg Beach, and Malik Deena Mosque, and Chandragiri fort. It is the best place to spend time with family and friends, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Best Time to Visit: December

Ideal Duration: 3 days

Nearest Airport: Mangalore

Popular Attractions: Aqua Park, Bekal Fort, beaches, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Ananthapura Temple, Nileswaram, Hosdurg Beach, and Malik Deena Mosque, and Chandragiri fort

Things to Do: Visit the Ashram Caves, spend a peaceful day at the beach and visit the Chandragiri fort.

Best Places to Stay: Taj Bekal Resort and Spa, Lalit Resort and Spa, Malabar Ocean Front Resort and Spa, Bekal Fort Heritage Homestay

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12. Idukki- Rocky Terrain And Verdant Vegetation

With the splendor of nature and breathtaking creation, Tourists will be transported into the world of nature and concrete jungles. It is one of God’s finest creations, home to several tourist places. Situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala, people will be awe-struck by the rocky terrain and verdant vegetation. Tourists are hypnotized with the most scenic views of the cliffs, lush greenery, lagoons, tranquil rivers, and cascading waterfalls.  Thodupuzhayar, Periyar, and Thalaya are the rivers that keep Idukki evergreen. The diverse flora and fauna add to the charm of the place which includes the hill stations, Wildlife Sanctuaries, majestic waterfalls, dams, and not to forget, the historical places.

Best Time to Visit: November- February

Ideal Duration: 3 days

Nearest Airport:  Cochin Airport

Popular Attractions: Cliffs, lush greenery, lagoons, tranquil rivers, and cascading waterfalls

Things to Do: Explore the hill stations, Wildlife Sanctuaries, majestic waterfalls, dams

Best Places to Stay: Tulsi Village Retreat, Palette Hill View Resort, Dam View Park Tourist, DamView Home Stay

13. Kuttanad- Known As The Rice Bowl Of India

Kuttanad is known as God's own country around the world as it is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Kerala. One of the many things to do in India is to discover the backwaters of Kuttanad, covering large parts of Alleppey.  It is known as the rice bowl of India and has some of the most stunning rivers like Pampi, Meenachil, Achankovil, and Manimala River. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to visiting one of God’s own creations? Tourists will have the ideal time of their lives and will always come back for more.  So, go ahead and pack those bags. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to visiting one of God’s own creations? Tourists will have the ideal time of their lives and will always come back for more.  So, go ahead and pack those bags, and have the best time of your lives.

Best Time to Visit: August

Ideal Duration: 5 days

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

Popular Attractions: Pampi, Meenachil, Achankovil, and Manimala River

Things to Do: Discover the backwaters of Kuttanad

Best Places to Stay:  Thriveni River Palace, Ayana's Pampatheeram Homestay, Marari Beatles Homestay

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14. Thrissur- Known For Its Religious Edifices And Performing Arts

Keralan performing arts, religious edifices, and the famous Thrissur Pooram festival, Onam Festival, and Vadakkumnathan Temple are things people should explore and see for themselves. Thrissur is one of the ideal places to go in Asia for its festivals and culture. People should enjoy the once- in a lifetime experience of the magic of the festivals and discover the beauty of Heritage Garden, Vadakkumnathan Kshetram Temple, Tomb of Shakthan Thampuran, Athirapally Falls, Archeology Museum, and the Thrissur Zoo. What more can anyone want when it comes to discovering some of the most breathtaking attractions in the world. It is not something people will get to see elsewhere and so, pack your bags and have the best vacation with family and friends.

Best Time to Visit: October

Ideal Duration: 3-4 days

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

Popular Attractions:  Heritage Garden, Vadakkumnathan Kshetram Temple, Tomb of Shakthan Thampuran, Athirapally Falls, Archeology Museum

Things to Do: Attend the Thrissur Pooram festival, Onam Festival, and explore Vadakkumnathan Temple

Best Places to Stay:  The Nattika Beach Ayurveda Resort, Neelambari Ecotourism, Riverine Sprinfs, Hyatt Regency

15. Varkala

Known around the world for its hippie culture, the small town of Varkala is situated along the coastline of the Arabian Sea, 15m high of the Northern Cliff. Tourists should give their taste buds a treat to the yummiest seafood and enjoy the local music. Saint Shri Narayana Guru is found in Varkala. The town is home to the Janardana Swami Temple, beaches, hills, forts, lakes, lighthouses, natural fisheries, and hot springs.

Edava Beach, Thiruvambadi Beach, Anjengo Fort, Sivagiri Mutt, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Varkala Cliff, Vishnu Temple, Papanasam Beach, and Chilakoor Beach are some of the beaches in India, people should visit at least once when on holiday.

Best time to visit- October and February

Ideal Duration: 3 days

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

Popular Attractions: Janardana Swami Temple, beaches, hills, forts, lakes, lighthouses, natural fisheries, and hot springs.

Things to Do: Enjoy a day on the beach, visit the forts and lakes

Best Places to Stay:  Clafouti Beach resort, Elixir Cliff Beach resort and spa, B'canti Boutique beach resort, InDa Hotel

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16. Kasargod

Known for its beauty and nature, religion, culture, and grace, Kasargod is one of the beautiful local coastal towns in Kerala. Grand forts, lofty hills, scenic backwaters, temples, luxurious resorts, and flawless beaches are some of the most stunning attractions people should explore. With so much to offer, people will never have a dull moment and will always come back for more.

Its history boasts of gracefulness and integrity and is said to have preserved several forts in Kerala. The art and culture have attracted tourists from all over the world especially for its handloom industry.  Ranipuram, Malom Wildlife Sanctuary, Ananthapura Lake Temple, Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary, Nileswar, Kareem’s Forest Park, Manjeshwar, and Kumbala are some of the other attractions' tourists should put on their bucket list of places to explore.

Best Time To Visit: September

Ideal Duration: 3 days

Nearest Airport: Mangalore airport

Popular Attractions: Ranipuram, Malom Wildlife Sanctuary, Ananthapura Lake Temple, Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary, Nileswar, Kareem’s Forest Park, Manjeshwar, and Kumbala

Things to Do: Exploring the grand forts, lofty hills, scenic backwaters, temples, luxurious resorts, and flawless beaches

Best Places to Stay:  The LaLit Resort and Spa, Bekal little hut homestay, Imam beach resort and Kalluvalappil holiday Inn

17. Tata Tea Museum- Known For Its Artifacts

The development of the tea estates can be seen through the tea roller and automated tea factory outlined by the Munnar Tea Museum. Tourists get to see the stages of tea processing along with the variable contrasts.  Production of black tea is seen displayed at the museum along with the sundial placed on a granite block. One of the best tourist places in Kerala is the museum as it home to some of the most exclusive artifacts like the Pelton wheel along with a few other things like classic bungalow furniture, iron oven, wooden bathtub, magneto phone, typewriters and manual calculators. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to having the best time of their lives with their family and friends.

Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM

Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours

Nearest Airport: Cochin Airport

Popular Attractions: Iron oven, wooden bathtub, magneto phone, typewriters and manual calculator

Things to Do: Learn about the production of black tea, see the sundial and explore the artifacts

Best Places to Stay:  Nullatanni hotels, Kallada Golden hotel, Hotel Sree Gokulam Residency

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18. Blossom Park Dark Forest- Known For Its Season

The magnificent park known for its seasonal flowers and lush greenery, Blossom Park Dark Forest is located close to  Pallivasal Hydro-electric project, near the beautiful river Muthirappuzha and in the middle of the Kanan Devan Hill Tea Estates. Tourists from all over the world come to visit the park just for its breath-taking beauty. People can even enjoy photography and activities like cycling, boating, trekking, and bird-watching. When on holiday, people can even attend the flower show held almost every year. It is one of the most ideal places to spend a day, away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to having the best time of their lives?

Timings: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm

Ideal Duration:  3 hours

Nearest Airport: Cochin Airport

Popular Attractions: Seasonal flowers and lush greenery

Things to Do: Cycling, boating, trekking, and bird-watching

Best Places to Stay:  The cliff resort, Karunya homestay and rooms, JJ cottage, Blackberry hills Munnar nature resort and spa

19. Anamudi Peak- Known For Its Rich Flora And Fauna

The jewel of Kerala, the Anamudi peak is the highest mountain peak in India surrounded by rich flora and fauna. It is home to some of the largest populations of Elephants, endangered Gaurs, exotic Nilgiri Langurs, and lion-tailed macaque. Tourists from all over the world come to visit this breathtaking place. It is heaven on Earth covered by conifer forests with some very beautiful rivers flowing inside the jungle. People can go trekking up to the top of the mountain and view the breathtaking sights of the Vaigai and Thamirabarani, and the Periyar River. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience people should put on their bucket list of things to do and enjoy.

Best time to visit: November November

Ideal duration: 2-3 hours

Nearest Airport: Cochin Airport

Popular Attractions: Elephants, endangered Gaurs, exotic Nigiri Langurs, and lion-tailed macaque

Things to do: Trekking

Best places to stay: Hotel Emerald Inn, Cicily Cottage, Eden Holidays, Hotel in Munnar

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Kerala is definitely a heaven when it comes to natural beauty as the state is blessed with several pristine beaches, exotic spice gardens, dense woods, mesmerizing valleys, enchanting waterfalls and picturesque backwaters. There is no dearth of adventures to try in Kerala which makes it a great place for family vacations and honeymoon. We hope this list of the best places to visit in Kerala would help you in planning your trip before you book flights to Kerala.

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