25 Best Places to Visit in Kerala: Complete Tourist Guide

Kerala is one of India's most beautiful holiday destinations, famous for its lush green landscapes, peaceful backwaters, beaches, hill stations, wildlife and rich cultural heritage.

Often known as God's Own Country, Kerala offers different experiences for every type of traveller. From relaxing on the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala to enjoying a houseboat cruise in Alleppey, exploring the tea plantations of Munnar or experiencing wildlife in Thekkady, there is something for everyone.

Kerala Tourism highlights the state's hills, beaches, backwaters, islands, waterfalls, wildlife and lakes among its major attractions.

If you are planning a Kerala holiday, here are 25 of the best tourist places in Kerala that you can consider adding to your itinerary.

1. Munnar

Munnar is one of the most popular hill stations in Kerala.

The destination is surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, waterfalls and beautiful mountain landscapes.

Munnar is an excellent choice for couples, families and nature lovers.

Things to do in Munnar

• Explore tea plantations
• Visit tea museums
• Enjoy mountain viewpoints
• Visit waterfalls
• Explore Eravikulam National Park
• Enjoy scenic drives

Munnar is officially listed among Kerala's major tourist destinations.

2. Alleppey

Alleppey, officially known as Alappuzha, is famous for its beautiful backwaters and traditional houseboats.

A houseboat cruise through the palm-lined waterways is one of the experiences most associated with Kerala tourism.

Things to do in Alleppey

• Stay on a houseboat
• Enjoy a backwater cruise
• Visit Alleppey Beach
• Explore local villages
• Enjoy Kerala cuisine
• Experience sunset views

Alappuzha is recognised as one of Kerala's major backwater destinations.

3. Wayanad

Wayanad is a beautiful hill and wildlife destination in northern Kerala.

The region is known for forests, waterfalls, caves, viewpoints and trekking opportunities.

Places to explore in Wayanad

• Edakkal Caves
• Soochipara Falls
• Pookode Lake
• Banasura Sagar Dam
• Wildlife areas
• Mountain viewpoints

Wayanad is also included among Kerala's major tourism destinations.

4. Thekkady

Thekkady is famous for the Periyar landscape and wildlife experiences.

It is an excellent destination for travellers interested in forests, wildlife and nature.

Things to do in Thekkady

• Wildlife spotting
• Boating
• Nature walks
• Trekking
• Spice plantation visits
• Explore local markets

Kerala Tourism identifies Periyar as one of the state's major wildlife attractions.

5. Kochi

Kochi is one of Kerala's most important cities and a major tourist destination.

The city combines history, culture, coastal scenery and modern attractions.

Places to visit in Kochi

• Fort Kochi
• Chinese fishing nets
• Mattancherry
• Jew Town
• Marine Drive
• Museums
• Historic churches

Fort Kochi is also highlighted by Kerala Tourism as an important heritage destination.

6. Kovalam

Kovalam is one of Kerala's most famous beach destinations.

Its coastal landscape, beaches and relaxed atmosphere make it popular with both domestic and international travellers.

Things to do in Kovalam

• Relax on the beach
• Enjoy sunset views
• Explore the coastline
• Visit the lighthouse
• Try local seafood
• Enjoy Ayurveda and wellness experiences

Kovalam is officially listed among Kerala's major destinations.

7. Varkala

Varkala is famous for its dramatic coastal cliffs and beautiful Arabian Sea views.

The destination is ideal for travellers looking for a combination of beaches, relaxation and culture.

Things to do in Varkala

• Visit Varkala Beach
• Explore the cliff area
• Enjoy sunset
• Visit Sivagiri
• Explore local cafés
• Enjoy shopping

Varkala is listed among Kerala Tourism's key destinations.

8. Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a peaceful backwater destination located around Vembanad Lake.

It is known for houseboats, birdwatching and relaxing resorts.

Things to do in Kumarakom

• Houseboat cruise
• Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Enjoy lake views
• Experience village life
• Relax at a resort

Kumarakom is featured among the destinations and attractions promoted by Kerala Tourism.

9. Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala and an important cultural destination.

The city is known for temples, museums, palaces and nearby beaches.

Places to visit

• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
• Napier Museum
• Kuthiramalika Palace
• Kanakakkunnu Palace
• Shangumukham Beach

Thiruvananthapuram is among Kerala's major tourist destinations.

10. Bekal

Bekal is located in northern Kerala and is famous for its historic fort and coastal scenery.

Things to do in Bekal

• Visit Bekal Fort
• Explore the beach
• Enjoy sunset
• Explore nearby villages
• Photography

Bekal is included among Kerala's important destinations in official tourism statistics.

11. Athirappilly

Athirappilly is one of Kerala's most famous waterfall destinations.

The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and forest landscapes.

Things to do

• Visit Athirappilly Waterfalls
• Explore nearby viewpoints
• Enjoy nature photography
• Visit Vazhachal area
• Enjoy scenic drives

Kerala government tourism material identifies Athirappilly as a major waterfall attraction.

12. Vagamon

Vagamon is a peaceful hill station surrounded by green hills, meadows and plantations.

It is a good choice for travellers who prefer quieter mountain destinations.

Things to do in Vagamon

• Explore green meadows
• Paragliding
• Trekking
• Photography
• Visit viewpoints
• Enjoy peaceful nature

Vagamon appears among Kerala's important tourist destinations.

13. Kozhikode

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a beautiful destination in northern Kerala.

It combines beaches, history, culture and famous Malabar cuisine.

Places to explore

• Kozhikode Beach
• Beypore
• Kappad
• Local markets
• Heritage attractions

Kozhikode is also among Kerala's prominent tourist destinations according to official tourism statistics.

14. Kollam

Kollam is an important destination for travellers interested in backwaters and coastal landscapes.

The region is associated with Ashtamudi Lake, beaches and historic attractions.

Things to do

• Explore Ashtamudi Lake
• Enjoy boating
• Visit beaches
• Explore Thangassery
• Visit the lighthouse

Kollam and Ashtamudi are highlighted in Kerala tourism resources.

15. Poovar

Poovar is a scenic coastal destination near Thiruvananthapuram.

It is known for its beach, waterways and boating experiences.

Things to do

• Enjoy boating
• Explore the coastline
• Visit Poovar Beach
• Enjoy sunset
• Relax at resorts

Poovar is listed as a beach and boating destination in Kerala government tourism material.

16. Ponmudi

Ponmudi is a scenic hill station near Thiruvananthapuram.

Its winding mountain roads, greenery and viewpoints make it a good destination for nature lovers.

Things to do

• Mountain drive
• Trekking
• Photography
• Explore waterfalls
• Enjoy viewpoints

Ponmudi is officially listed as a hill-station and waterfall destination.

17. Gavi

Gavi is an eco-tourism destination known for forests, wildlife and peaceful natural surroundings.

It is a good option for travellers looking for a quieter experience away from heavily visited tourist centres.

Things to do

• Wildlife watching
• Trekking
• Nature walks
• Boating
• Scenic drives

Gavi is listed among Kerala's eco-tourism destinations.

18. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

For bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an interesting destination.

The sanctuary is located around the Vembanad Lake ecosystem and offers opportunities to observe different bird species.

It can be combined with a Kumarakom houseboat or backwater holiday.

19. Silent Valley National Park

Silent Valley is one of Kerala's important natural attractions.

The region is known for its forests and biodiversity.

It is an excellent destination for nature lovers interested in Kerala's Western Ghats landscape.

Silent Valley National Park is included among the attractions promoted by Incredible India.

20. Jatayu Earth Center

Jatayu Earth Center is a unique attraction in Kerala combining nature, art and adventure experiences.

The destination is particularly famous for its massive Jatayu sculpture.

Things to do

• See the Jatayu sculpture
• Enjoy viewpoints
• Explore the attraction
• Experience adventure activities
• Take photographs

Jatayu Rock is listed among Kerala's attractions by Incredible India.

21. Guruvayur

Guruvayur is one of Kerala's important pilgrimage destinations.

The town is famous for the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple and attracts devotees throughout the year.

It is especially significant for travellers interested in Kerala's spiritual and cultural heritage.

Guruvayur ranked among Kerala's leading destinations in official tourism statistics.

22. Thrissur

Thrissur is known as an important cultural centre of Kerala.

The city is famous for its temples, festivals, traditional art and nearby attractions.

Places to explore

• Vadakkunnathan Temple
• Thrissur Pooram-related heritage
• Museums
• Cultural centres
• Athirappilly region

Thrissur is included among Kerala's major destinations in government tourism resources.

23. Palakkad

Palakkad is known for its historic fort, green landscapes and access to the Western Ghats.

Places to visit

• Palakkad Fort
• Malampuzha
• Silent Valley region
• Nelliyampathy
• Local villages

Palakkad Fort and Silent Valley are among attractions highlighted by Incredible India.

24. Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy is a scenic hill destination in Palakkad district.

The region is known for mountains, forests and plantations.

It is a good choice for travellers who want to explore a quieter side of Kerala.

Things to do

• Mountain drives
• Nature walks
• Photography
• Plantation visits
• Explore viewpoints

25. Munroe Island

Munroe Island is a beautiful destination in the Kollam region known for waterways, canals and village landscapes.

It provides a peaceful backwater experience away from some of Kerala's busier tourist centres.

Things to do

• Canoe rides
• Explore waterways
• Village walks
• Photography
• Experience local life

Kerala's official tourism material also highlights Munroe Thuruth as an island destination associated with backwaters and traditional activities.

Best Kerala Tourist Places by Experience

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Kerala can be visited throughout the year, although the ideal period depends on the type of holiday you are planning.

October to March

This is generally a popular period for sightseeing, beaches, hill stations and backwater holidays.

April to May

These months can be warmer, but hill stations such as Munnar and Wayanad can still be attractive.

June to September

The monsoon transforms Kerala into a lush green landscape.

It can be an interesting time for travellers who enjoy greenery, waterfalls and the monsoon atmosphere, although heavy rain may affect outdoor activities and road travel.

Kerala Tourism notes that the state has a relatively year-round tourism season because of its moderate climate and festivals.

How Many Days Are Enough for Kerala?

For a first Kerala trip, 6 to 8 days can provide a good introduction to the state's major attractions.

A sample itinerary could be:

Day 1

Kochi arrival and sightseeing

Day 2

Kochi → Munnar

Day 3

Munnar sightseeing

Day 4

Munnar → Thekkady

Day 5

Thekkady → Alleppey

Day 6

Alleppey houseboat experience

Day 7

Alleppey → Kovalam

Day 8

Kovalam → Departure

The itinerary can be changed according to your budget, travel dates and preferred destinations.

Kerala Travel Tips

Before planning your Kerala trip, keep these points in mind:

• Keep comfortable clothes for sightseeing.
• Carry sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Carry an umbrella or rain jacket.
• Book hotels and houseboats in advance during peak season.
• Check weather conditions before travelling.
• Keep some cash for smaller local expenses.
• Respect local culture and religious customs.
• Wear appropriate clothing when visiting temples.
• Follow safety instructions during boating and adventure activities.
• Avoid littering in natural areas.
• Keep sufficient time between destinations because mountain and local roads can take longer than expected.

Kerala Tour with TravelOChat

Planning 25 destinations in one trip is not necessary. The best Kerala itinerary depends on your travel duration, budget and interests.

TravelOChat can help you create a customised Kerala holiday covering the destinations that match your travel style.

Your Kerala tour can include:

• Munnar
• Alleppey
• Thekkady
• Wayanad
• Kochi
• Kovalam
• Varkala
• Kumarakom
• Athirappilly
• Vagamon
• Bekal
• Kollam
• Poovar
• And many more

Whether you are planning a family holiday, honeymoon, friends' trip or customised Kerala tour, TravelOChat can help you plan your journey.

Explore the backwaters. Discover the mountains. Experience God's Own Country with TravelOChat.

Final Words

Kerala is a destination where beaches, mountains, backwaters, wildlife and culture come together.

From the tea plantations of Munnar and houseboats of Alleppey to the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, every part of Kerala offers a different travel experience.

The 25 destinations covered in this guide provide a great starting point for planning a Kerala holiday.

Choose the destinations that match your interests, plan enough time for each location and enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kerala.

Plan your Kerala holiday with TravelOChat and discover the best of God's Own Country.