Did you know that National Geographic traveller named Kerala one of the “ 50 Places of Life time”. In this blog post I am excited to guide you through the most captivating destinations in Kerala. This State is situated along INDIA’s southwestern coast , encapsulated blend of natural wonders, rich culture and cuisine.
Kerala Also known as God’s own country, is not just another destination. It’s a breath-taking feast where ancient traditions blend with natural splendour. From the beautiful coconut palms to the aromatic spice gardens, each and every corner of the Kerala tells a new story every you visit this place.
top travel Destinations in Kerala
The Enchanting Backwaters of Kerala
Backwaters of Kerala are iconic which attracts as many as tourists each year. As a tourist you can have a unique experience of backwaters that blends nature with culture. Kerala’s backwaters are the must visit places of Kerala’s travel itinerary.
- Alleppey: Known as the “Venice of the East”. Here you can experience a picturesque of backwaters, house boats, Floating cottages. This is a top travel destination of Kerala tour.
- Kumarakom: Kumarakom is located on the banks of Vembanad lake. This lake attracts huge number of birds; thus it is a haven for bird watchers. The backwaters here are best option for kayaking, boat rides and bird watching.
- Vembanad Lake: This lake is the largest lake of Kerala. This lake attracts lot of variety of birds and haven of birds watchers. This lake is a popular choice of House Boats. In these house boats you can enjoy fishing and traditional Kerala cuisine.
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and optimal conditions for house boating, cruising.
Hill Stations in Kerala
If you are tired of chaos of city life, Hill stations of Kerala are a perfect escape. The climate of these hill stations is cool, stunning view of tea gardens, and breath-taking landscape all together make these hill stations are a gateway for nature lovers.
- Munnar: Known for its tea estates spread across the hill, Munnar is one of the Top travel destinations in Kerala. Here one can experience the charm of Hill stations. Pay a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, in this park you can find the endangered Nilgiri Thar. You can trek to Anamudi peak, this peak is the highest peak in south India.
- Wayanad: Wayanadis a mixture of wildlife, history and adventure. This hill station is perfect for trekkers and nature lovers. The Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Soochipara Waterfalls are must-visit attractions.
- Vagamon: Vagamon is a hidden gem and it is known for cool climate, green meadows and peaceful atmosphere. Here you take part in Paragliding, trekking and just unwinding in the lap of nature.
Best time to Visit: September to March.
The best Beaches of Kerala
One of the states of India, Kerala encapsulate stunning, vibrant, and most beautiful Beaches. From relaxing beach vacation to engaging in water sports Kerala beaches have all.
- Kovalam Beach: The most famous beach in Kerala. This beach has crescent-shaped coast line and golden-brown sands. This beach is ideal for sunbathing, water sports, swimming, Ayurvedic treatments. This beach is one of the top travel destinations in Kerala.
- Varkala Beach: Varkala beach is known for its cliffs the raise above the Arabian Sea. A perfect alternate for Kovalam beach. This beach is perfect for those who seeking a quitter retreat.
- Bekal Beach: Bekal Beach is famous for the historic Bekal Fort overlooking the Arabian sea. It is an perfect spot for photographers, and evening walks. This beach presents you a spectacular sunset view.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
You may also like to read: Top Hill Stations in Tamil Nadu
Cultural and Historical Treasures
Kerala’s rich culture and history are deeply rooted in its identity. If you are a person interested in History, architecture, and cultural experiences Kerala won’t disappoint you.
- Kochi Fort: A mix of colonial history and vibrant arts, this fort is one of the top travel destinations in Kerala. Pay a visit to Chinese fishing nets, Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church. Don’t miss the Kochi-Muziris Biennale during festival.
- Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Located in Thiruvananthapuram, this is a ancient temple with beautiful architecture makes it one of the top travel destinations in Kerala. It showcases Dravidian architecture. This temple is dedicated to God Vishnu.
- Thrissur: This town known as the cultural capital of Kerala. Thrissur hosts the famous pooram festival. Thrisur also boasts several temples, churches.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year, the Thrissur Pooram are held from March to April.
Kerala’s Adventure and Wildlife Destinations
For the adventure lovers, Kerala offers plenty of activities and wild life. From trekking and rafting, Kayaking to Wild life Safaris, the state is packed with adventure.
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary situated in Thekkady, is famous for its rich biodiversity. A boat ride on the Periyar lake offers an opportunity to spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife in their habitat.
- Athirappilly Waterfalls: these Waterfalls also known as “Niagara of India”. Waterfalls is one of the largest waterfalls in the state.
- Silent Valley National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Silent valley is a perfect spot for nature lovers, and trekkers. Here in the dense forest, you can come across the several endangered species, making it a One of the Top Travel Destinations in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit: November to April, for the best chance to spot wildlife and enjoy outdoor activities
Offbeat Destinations in Kerala for Explorers
Below are some mentioning less crowded, and off beat destinations. Kerala has several lesser-known gems.
- Parambikulam Tiger reserve: This reserve is located between the boarder of Tamil Nādu and Kerala states. You can embark on safaris to spot tigers and other wildlife.
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A haven for bird watchers, this is home for many migratory and native birds. You can hire a boat and explore the Sanctuary and have look at many more bird varieties.
- Thenmala: Known as India’s first planned eco-tourism destination. Thenmala has a mixture of nature and adventure to offer you. Activities like boating, trekking, cycling make it unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit: October to March for mild weather and a chance to explore nature.
Thekkady: Wildlife and Spice Gardens
Periyar Tiger Reserve situated in Thekkady. This forest offers you an mixture of wildlife experiences and spice plantation visits.
Here are some mentioning’s that you can go for
- Taking a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife
- Walking through spice gardens learning about cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon
- Watching traditional Kathakali performances
- Participating in bamboo rafting expeditions
- Learning about elephant behavior at the Elephant Junction
Poovar: Where River Meets Sea
Poovar, a coastal village near Trivandrum, offers a unique system where backwaters, beach, and sea meet. This hidden gem among top travel destinations in Kerala is perfect for those seeking a quieter coastal experience.
Here are some mentioning’s that you can go for
- Golden sand beach exploration
- Floating restaurant experiences
- Mangrove forest boat rides
- Luxury island resort stays
- Bird watching in the estuary
Transportation:
- Kerala has 4 international airports: Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode, and Kannur
- The state is well-connected by trains and buses
- Consider hiring a private driver for hill station visits
- Local ferries offer authentic backwater experiences
Accommodation:
- Book heritage hotels in Fort Kochi
- Try houseboats in Alleppey and Kumarakom
- Experience treehouse stays in Wayanad
- Enjoy beach resorts in Kovalam and Varkala
- Opt for plantation stays in Munnar and Vagamon
The best time to explore these top travel destinations in Kerala is between October and February. However, each season offers its own unique experiences:
- Monsoon (June-September): Perfect for Ayurvedic treatments
- Post-monsoon (October-November): Ideal for wildlife spotting
- Winter (December-February): Best for backwater cruises
- Spring (March-May): Great for hill station visits
You may also like to read: 10+ Beautiful Places to Visit in South Goa
FAQ’s:
1. Which place is most visited in Kerala?
Thekkady is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Kerala. It is known for its tea, coffee and spice estates.
2. What is the Kerala backwater experience like?
Kerala’s backwaters are a network of lakes, rivers, and canals, typically explored on a houseboat cruise. The experience offers a serene view of village life, lush greenery, and various species of wildlife and birds. Alleppey and Kumarakom are popular destinations for this.
3. Is Kerala safe for tourists in 2025?
Yes, Kerala is considered one of the safest states for tourists in India. However, it’s always recommended to take basic precautions regarding your personal belongings.
4.What are the must-try foods in Kerala?
- Sadya (traditional Kerala feast)
- Appam and Stew
- Kerala Parotta with Beef Curry
- Fish Curry (Meen Curry)
- Kerala-style fried fish
- Puttu and Kadala Curry
- Banana Chips and Jackfruit Chips
- Sadhya’s dessert: Payasam
5. What is Kerala’s famous festival?
- Onam: Kerala’s biggest and most important festival, usually celebrated in August or September. It’s known for its grand feasts, traditional dance forms, and vibrant celebrations.
- Vishu: Celebrated in April, marking the Malayalam New Year.
- Theyam: A popular ritualistic art form in Northern Kerala.
6. What is Kerala’s traditional art and performance culture?
- Kathakali (classical dance-drama)
- Mohiniyattam (classical dance)
- Theyam (ritualistic dance)
- Kalaripayattu (martial arts)
- Ottanthullal (traditional solo dance)
7. Are there any adventure activities in Kerala?
Yes, Kerala offers activities like trekking, river rafting, paragliding, spice plantation tours, and wildlife safaris.
8. What are the best beaches in Kerala?
- Varkala Beach
- Kovalam Beach
- Alappuzha (Alleppey) Beach
- Munambam Beach
- Bekal Beach
9. Is Kerala suitable for a family trip?
Yes, Kerala offers diverse experiences suitable for families, including beaches, backwaters, wildlife safaris, and cultural activities.
10. Can I experience Ayurveda in Kerala?
Yes, Kerala is known as the birthplace of Ayurveda. Many resorts and wellness centers offer Ayurvedic treatments such as massages, therapies, and wellness packages. The monsoon season is considered the best time for these treatments.
Conclusion:
From the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey to the historic fort fort-Kochi, each of these top travel destinations in Kerala offers a unique experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, the top travel destinations in Kerala are sure to exceed your expectations.
Start planning your trip to these magnificent destinations today, and discover why Kerala truly deserves its title as God’s Own Country.
