Kerala is the land of unending palm groves, pristine sandy beaches, sprawling tea plantations, rolling green hills, calming backwaters, mouth-watering cuisine and much more. Situated between the Western Ghats in the east and the Arabian Sea in the west, this land is blessed with abundant geographical and cultural diversity. How this tiny strip of land holds such divine natural beauty and cultural heritage is a wonder in itself.
Crafted by the hand of Gods, Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its sobriquet of God’s Own Country is well deserved. The entire expanse of Kerala is blessed with beauty, unmissable attractions and some of the most scenic places to visit. From the lush hill stations on the Western Ghats to scenic shores by the Arabian Sea, from the backwaters to the wildlife sanctuaries, lush tea gardens to roaring waterfalls, soothing Ayurvedic resorts to the bustling festivals, Kerala abounds in beauty and bliss.
There is no dearth of places to visit for any traveler in this marvel of a land. Here are 15 of the most popular destinations in Kerala along with 100+ tourist places in Kerala.
So below is the top 15 places to visit in Kerela.
1). Alleppey
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| Alleppey House Boat |
Alleppey is also famous by the name of Vince of the east. In the early 20th century, Lord Curzon (British Viceroy to India), while on his visit to Alleppey exclaimed, “Here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties. Alappuzha is one of the most eye-catching places in Kerala. It is home to thousands of water boats. These are called Kettuvallam in Malayalam, meaning living in structures like a boat.
In ancient times, Kettuvallam or houseboats had a roof of wooden hulls used to carry many grains and spices. The houseboats are equipped with all the latest technology and amenities like air conditioners, living rooms, chimnies, music system, and lights. So, get ready to ramble around this small city with its modest grid of canals.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Alleppey is during the winter season between the months of November to February. For nature lovers, rainy season is also a very good time to visit Alleppey and counts for a whole new experience as part of your Kerala trip package. With greenery everywhere, Alleppey looks lively during the rainy season.
Best places to visit:
The Backwaters of Alleppey, Alappuzha Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Marari Beach, Arthunkal Church, Karumadi Kuttan Statue and Ambalapuzha Temple are some of the top places you can visit in Alleppey and make a part of your Kerala travel packages.
The Alleppey Snake Boat Race, also known as the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, is one of the most famous attractions in Alleppey. Plan your Kerala tour in the month of August to witness this extraordinary boat race that takes place in the Punnamada Lake where snake boats (chundan vallam) compete against each other for the prestigious boat race winner title.
2). Kochi (Cochin)
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| Kochi Fort |
Kochi is the state’s economic capital as it is the hub of tourist and tourist activities and the streets of Kochi have its kind of surprise in it. It is also called as the ‘Queen of Arabian Sea’, Kochi is a beautiful amalgamation of rich history, tradition and contemporary trade practices. There are tourism places like Chottanikara Bhagavathy Temple. This temple is the most visited site in Kochi. The temple has a Pala tree in it, which is pierced with thousands of nails. The folklore museum is dedicated to Anthropology, Architecture, History, Culture, Folk art, Tribal art, Traditional art, and South India. It is a storehouse of lost pride in India’s southern part, which consists of some rare artifacts like Sri Guruvayurappan, watercolor on paper.
Best time to visit:
October to February: Winters are by far the best time to visit Cochin as the weather is very pleasant. Temperatures range between 17 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius. This is a great time of the year for honeymooners, beach bums and adventure seekers.
Best places to visit:
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), Pardesi Synagogue (Jewish Synagogue), Veeranpuzha Beach, Santa Cruz Basilica, Cherai Beach and Fort Kochi are some of the best places to visit in Kochi, that are all covered in a typical Kerala trip package.
Kochi is famous for the use of Chinese fishing nets, so don’t forget to witness these extraordinary fishing nets with the backdrop of a beautiful sunset by the beach. For such incredible experiences with your loved one, you can check our Kerala honeymoon packages here. For a fun trip with your friends and family, opt for our Kerala tour packages right away.
3). Munnar
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| Munnar Field |
If you like tea, a visit to Munnar is a must. The surrounding region is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations. See tea being picked and processed, and try fresh tea straight from the gardens. There's even a tea museum. The area is blessed with the natural beauty of winding lanes, misty hills, and forests full of exotic plants and wildlife.
Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in south India, explore Eravikulam National Park, or go rock climbing and paragliding. Munnar offers a diverse range of accommodations, surrounded by nature.
Lush green plantations, misty mountains and heavenly scenic views make Munnar the honeymoon capital of Kerala.
Best time to visit:
March to May marks the beginning of summer in Munnar. The weather remains pleasant and temperatures range between 19 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. Summer in Munnar is a perfect time to enjoy sightseeing and visiting tea estates and the Tata Tea Museum. Carry light cottons, though also carry an umbrella as rain showers are common during the summer months.
June to September is the monsoon season in Munnar and even though many tourists avoid Munnar during the monsoons, this is a great time to visit the hill station if you’re looking for a quiet vacation. Covered with lush green foliage, monsoons in Munnar have a charm of their own. This is also a great time to enjoy discounts on hotel tariffs and enjoy Munnar all to yourself, without swarms of tourists. Also do remember to carry an umbrella or raincoat along.
Best places to visit:
It has gorgeous sunny beaches, fringy waterfalls, scenic backwaters, misty mountains, Blossom Park, Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the most interesting places to visit in Munnar.
4.) Kovalam
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| Kovalam Beach |
Kovalam was known to be the most prominent tourist spots in India during the hippy era. It still has a large number of tourists who visit here to enjoy themselves at beaches. Most visitors here are from Europe and Israel. Vizhinjam seaport is just 3km away from the city, located about 40 minutes southeast of capital city Trivandrum and presided over by a distinctive lighthouse. It is famous for its varieties of fishes and old Hindu temples.
There are many regions to visit in Kovalam like Karaman river, villainy lake, Kovalam art museum, Arruvikara dam, Halcyon Castle, Valiyathura Pier, and many more. The nearest station is Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station, about 16 km away. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 10 km away.
Best time to visit:
The best season to visit in Kovalam is the winter season when the weather is cooler and the humidity is also less. Cooler temperatures allow plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Overall, The best time to visit Kovalam is from September to February. Any other months besides these can mean unpredictable weather changes and unnecessary packing to cope with these weather fluctuations.
Best places to visit:
Kovalam Beach, Beemapalli Mosque, Hawa Beach, Samudra Beach, Karamana River, Halcyon Castle, Kovalam Art Gallery and Valiyathura Pier are some of the best places to visit in Kerala.
5). Wayanad
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| Wayanad Field |
Wayanad is a bright green mountainous region that stretches along the Western Ghats. It has a great deal of scenic appeal. Abundant coconut palms, thick forests, paddy fields, and lofty peaks form the landscape. Due to the nature of its terrain, the area also has much to offer adventure enthusiasts. The most prominent places to visit in Wayanad is the Mathanga wildlife sanctuary, home to many creatures like cheetah, bears, bison, etc. The nearest airport is Calicut International airport, which is almost 87 km away from Wayanad. The nearest railway station is Nilambur road, which is 53kms away.
Best time to visit:
Wayanad in winters is like a dream come true. The months from October to March are considered to be the most ideal time to visit this natural paradise. Tourism is at its peak during this season when travellers from all the world head to this beautiful getaway for peace of mind and relaxation. Monsoons at Wayanad are also preferred when nature is at its best and short trips become easily possible to explore this quaint hill station in the Western Ghats.
Best places to see:
Popular attractions include trekking to Chembra Peak and Meenmutty Falls, exploring old Jain temples, climbing to Edakkal Caves, and wildlife spotting at Muthanga and Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuaries. Another highlight of Wayanad is the many delightful homestays in the area. Glenora is one of them.
6). Varkala
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| Varkala Beach |
This destination is a beautiful story that unfolds along the coast of the Arabian Sea with red laterite cliffs overlooking the pristine beaches and caressing the edges of the beach cum temple town. Varkala is home to some of the best beaches in Kerala and is a favourite spot for backpackers and leisure travellers.
The coastal city also hosts the 2000-year-old Janardan Swamy Temple, an important pilgrimage site which has earned the epithet of ‘Dakshin Kashi’ or ‘Benares of the South’. The famous Papanasam Beach here is said to have medicinal and curative properties which is why believers head to its holy waters to cleanse their souls and wash away their sins. Varkala is the perfect blend of religious calm atmosphere along with relaxed untapped beaches; a paradise of tranquillity with a touch of spiritual solitude is what attracts travellers to this unique destination.
Best time to visit:
The best season to visit Varkala is the winter season. The temperature remains comfortable and is apt for visiting the places of interest in Varkala. The best months to visit are October, November, December, January, and March.
Best places to visit:
A paved footpath runs along the length of the cliff, bordered by coconut palms, quaint shops, beach shacks, hotels, and guesthouses. Nestled at the bottom of the cliff is a long stretch of sparkling beach, reached by steps leading down from the cliff top. It's not surprising that Varkala is one of India's best beaches.
7). Kerela Backwaters
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| Kerela Backwaters Fall |
One of the most tranquil and relaxing things you can do in Kerala is to take a trip in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala canals, known as the backwaters. Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer (buy your own and bring it on the boat) make the experience even more enjoyable. You can even spend the night out in the middle of a lake. Stay a few nights at a homestay or resort along the backwaters too. Bliss. For the ultimate experience, don't miss seeing a sunset from Kakkathuruthu Island on Vembanad Lake. Most Backwaters trips start out from Alleppey.
- June-September: 19-30°C
- March-May: 32-36°C
- October-February: 18-29°C
Best time to visit:
Best places to visit:
Boat houses to spend your day and night, beaches, night forest parties and massage spots.
8). Jatayupara Earth's Centre
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| Jatayu Sculpture |
Jatayupara Earth's Center is an ambitious new attraction in Kerala. The park is spread over an astonishing 65 acres and is themed on the Hindu epic The Ramayan. It opened in late 2016, in Chadayamangalam village in Kerala's Kollam district, about an hour north of Trivandrum.
The park has more than 20 adventure activities, a 6D theater that shows the battle between Jatayu and Ravan, a virtual reality museum, an Ayurvedic healing cave, and cable car (aerial tramway) to transport visitors up. It's dominated by a 200-foot-long landmark sculpture of Jatayu, the mythical vulture that's believed to have been killed on the rocky hilltop while trying to rescue Sita from Ravan. Greatly, the sculpture is considered to be the largest of its kind in the world.
Best time to visit:
November and December (Winter) is the best time to visit Kollam because the temperature is relatively pleasant, humidity is low and there is almost no rainfall to spoil your evening at the beach. It is best to avoid the monsoons.
Best places to visit:
Jatayu mythical vulture sculpture, caves, climbing the jatayu hill, rock hill, 6D movie theatre and cable car rides.
9). Thekkady
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| Thekkady Zoo Elephant |
Thekkady is a delightful heaven for a large variety of fauna and flaura, It is an important tourist destination and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kerala. Thekkady belongs enchanting forests, beautiful mountain trails, picturesque plantations and man-made lakes that elevate and adorn the natural beauty of this place.
It is home to the Periyar National Park, one of the largest and amazing wildlife reserves in the country. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Periyar Lake and get a chance to observe the different wild animals that lives the nature reserve. It is the dream destination for anyone who loves nature, wildlife and adventure. Although being the perfect destination for a relaxed and pleasant holiday, Thekkady is also considered to be a favorable spot for cultivating natural spices such as cinnamon, nutmace, black pepper, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg and clove.
Best time to visit:
October to February: Winters are by far the best time to visit Thekkady as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. The maximum temperature goes up to 15 degrees Celsius and this is a great time to go for wildlife safaris and admire the natural beauty of Thekkady. The town is located at an altitude of 700m above sea level, which offers a pleasant and cool climate that is ideal for sightseeing. There are many festivals that take place during the winter season at Thekkady, which can give you an opportunity to discover a different aspect of this place altogether.
Best places to see:
Periyar National Park, Murikkady, Chellar Kovil, Anakkara, Pattumalay and Mangala Devi Temple are some of the best places in Thekkady that you can visit and explore to your heart’s content. Be a part of an incredible wildlife experience as you travel to Thekkady and make it an unforgettable part of your journey.
10). Palakkad
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| Palakkad Field |
The seventh most populous town in Kerala, Palakkad is a perfect stopover for wildlife, monuments and Ayurveda. With a unique blend of nature and culture, Palakkad provides ample options for a short vacation. Known as the ‘Rice Bowl of India’, Palakkad is home to beautiful old temples, artistic sculptures and paintings, all of which combine together in perfect harmony to become a part of a Kerala.
Best time to visit:
The best season to visit Palakkad is the winter season in the months of December to February. The temperature remains comfortable and is apt for sightseeing and other pursuits. December to February is the winter season in Palakkad with an average temperature in between 17°C - 28°C.
Best places to see:
Kalpathy Temple, Nelliyampathy Hills, Silent Valley National Park, Palakkad Fort and Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the most famous places to visit in Palakkad.
11). Thiruvananthapuram
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| Thiruvananthapuram Town |
Called the ‘Evergreen city of India’, Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of the state of Kerala. The city comprises beautiful beaches, long stretches of palm fringed shorelines, windy backwaters and historical structures. Along with its natural and historical significance, the city is also popular for its ancient temples that are renowned for their architecture making Thiruvananthapuram one of the most visited pilgrim centers of India.
You can find many budget, mid-range and luxury hotels in the city. The hotels are known for their hospitality and services. Keys Hotel has been liked by visitors and is close to most of the tourist spots in the city. Rooms here costs around Rs 3000 per night. The Capital Trivandrum near Pulimoodu junction is a good mid-range hotel costing around Rs 2500.
Best time to visit:
October and November are generally pleasant and sometimes light rain showers are observed during these two months. November onwards, the winter season starts in Trivandrum but the overall temperature does not drop below 18 degree Celsius. Winters are not that chilly here, in fact, weather turns more enjoyable during this time. This is also the peak tourist season and is ideal for sightseeing as well as other kinds of touristy activities.
Best places to visit:
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Shangumugham Beach, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, Vellayani Lake, Light House Road, Kanakakkunnu Palace and many more.
12). Poover Island
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| Boat Ride To Poover Island |
Did you know Kerala has over-water bungalows? You'll find them at Poovar Island Resort, about 30-minutes further down the coast from Kovalam. Granted, they're not as spectacular as some of those in the Maldives, but they're still recommended. Poovar Island is not far from the Tamil Nadu border and is quite an amazing natural wonder. It lies at the point where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. In between is an elongated sand bar.
Best time to visit:
The best season to visit Poovar is the winter season. The temperature remains comfortable and is apt for visiting the places of interest in Poovar. The best months to visit are October, November, December, January and February. Summers of Poovar are extremely hot and humid.
Best places to visit:
Golden Sand Beach, Poovar Island Beach Road, Aazhimala Siva Temple, Poover Backwater Cruise, Chowara Beach, Poovar Lake Port Back waters.
Conclusion:
The most suitable time to tour Kerala is from March to September. At this time, the weather here is quite comfortable, with less humidity. If you stay here once, you will feel bewitched, you will want to come here repeatedly. And if you have started packing your bags, do not forget to Travel the places we listed above, as we make all your worries our own. Let us know when you are ready for your trip by commenting down below. This will motivate for our work more. So do not worry anymore and enjoy the beautiful climate of Kerela to the fullest. All the best.
- Before you leave wait a minute. As you read the whole article right above I think I might have gave you a clear idea about the state of Kerela by providing even the little info that can help you during your visit. So don't you think I atleast deserve a share and a comment about how much you got to know from the blog ?
- If yes, do comment down and even let me know if I missed something. And hit me up if you wanna know about some other place too. Suggestions are always welcomed.
POSTED BY : HATIM PAREKH
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