Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” is a land of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse experiences. Whether you’re looking for serene backwaters, mist-covered hills, golden beaches, or vibrant wildlife, Kerala offers something for every traveler. In this blog, we’ll explore the 20 Must-Visit Places in Kerala God’s Own Country, covering the best of what this enchanting state has to offer.
1. Munnar – The Serene Hill Station
Munnar is one of Kerala’s most famous hill stations, known for its rolling tea plantations, lush greenery, and misty mountains. The cool climate and scenic views make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Highlights include Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and Mattupetty Dam, where you can enjoy boating and picnics.
Best time to visit: September to March
2. Alleppey – The Venice of the East
Famous for its enchanting backwaters, Alleppey (Alappuzha) is often referred to as the “Venice of the East.” A houseboat cruise through Alleppey’s backwaters offers a tranquil experience as you glide through canals surrounded by coconut palms, lush rice paddies, and traditional villages.
Must-do: Stay overnight on a traditional houseboat and savor local Kerala cuisine.
3. Kovalam – For the Beach Lovers
Kovalam is a beach lover’s paradise with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. This coastal town is famous for its three crescent-shaped beaches, including Lighthouse Beach, which offers mesmerizing sunset views and water sports like surfing.
Must-visit beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.
4. Wayanad – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Wayanad is perfect for those seeking a wildlife adventure and natural beauty. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is known for its dense forests, tea and spice plantations, and stunning waterfalls. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, and exotic birds.
Activities: Trekking to Chembra Peak or exploring the Edakkal Caves, which have ancient rock carvings.
5. Thekkady – Explore Wildlife and Nature
Thekkady, located near the Periyar National Park, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. You can enjoy boat safaris on Periyar Lake, where you may spot elephants, wild boars, and other wildlife along the shoreline. The park also offers guided jungle treks and night safaris.
Top attraction: Bamboo rafting in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
6. Kochi – The Cultural Hub
Kochi (Cochin) is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and modernity. As a major port city, Kochi has a rich history influenced by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The Fort Kochi area is famous for its Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and Jewish Synagogue.
Don’t miss: The vibrant art galleries and cafes that line the streets of Fort Kochi.
7. Varkala – The Cliff Beach Destination
Varkala is unique because of its stunning cliffs that overlook the Arabian Sea. This Beach destination is not just famous for its natural beauty but also as a spiritual destination. The beach is lined with quaint shops, cafes, and Ayurvedic centers offering wellness treatments.
Must-do: Visit the Janardhanaswamy Temple, located on the cliffs overlooking the beach.
8. Athirappilly – The Niagara of India
Athirappilly Falls, often referred to as the Niagara of India, is Kerala’s largest waterfall. The sight of water cascading down from 80 feet is breathtaking, especially during the monsoon season.
Nearby attractions: Visit Vazhachal Falls and the Sholayar Dam for more scenic beauty.
9. Kumarakom – A Tranquil Escape
Kumarakom is another gem in Kerala’s backwater tourism scene. Famous for its bird sanctuary, Kumarakom offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature. You can take a backwater cruise through Vembanad Lake, which is ideal for spotting migratory birds like herons and egrets.
Best time to visit: November to February
10. Thrissur – The Cultural Capital
Thrissur is often regarded as Kerala’s cultural capital, known for its vibrant festivals like Thrissur Pooram, where elephants in traditional regalia are paraded through the streets. The city is home to Vadakkumnathan Temple, one of the most significant Hindu temples in Kerala.
Highlight: Attend the Thrissur Pooram Festival if you’re visiting during the summer months.
11. Bekal – Famous for Its Iconic Fort
Bekal, located in northern Kerala, is best known for the Bekal Fort, which offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The fort is the largest in Kerala and is a popular spot for history lovers and photographers.
Attraction: The nearby Bekal Beach is perfect for a relaxing walk along the coastline.
12. Ponmudi – The Hill Station with Stunning Views
Ponmudi is a lesser-known hill station in Kerala that offers stunning mountain views and opportunities for trekking. With its cool climate and winding roads, it’s the perfect getaway for a quiet retreat.
Top activity: Trekking through the lush hills and exploring nearby tea plantations.
Read also:https: Statewide Street Food in India
13. Vagamon – A Quiet Hill Station
Vagamon is another beautiful hill station that’s relatively untouched by mass tourism. With its rolling meadows, tea gardens, and cool climate, Vagamon is perfect for travelers seeking peace. It’s also a hotspot for paragliding and other adventure sports.
Hidden gem: Visit the Vagamon Pine Forest for a peaceful nature walk.
14. Marari Beach – The Perfect Getaway
If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing beach, Marari Beach is the perfect spot. Known for its tranquil setting, Marari is less crowded compared to other beaches in Kerala and is ideal for couples and families looking for a serene escape.
Must-do: Unwind with an Ayurvedic massage by the beach.
15. Sabarimala – A Spiritual Pilgrimage
Sabarimala is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees each year. The Sabarimala Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is situated amidst the lush forests of the Western Ghats.
Important: Sabarimala Temple is open for devotees during specific periods of the year, so plan your visit accordingly.
16. Trivandrum – Kerala’s Capital City
Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), the capital of Kerala, is a bustling city known for its rich history and cultural significance. The city is home to several attractions like the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Napier Museum, and the beautiful Shanghumukham Beach.
Must-see: The Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the wealthiest temples in the world, is a must-visit for its grandeur and intricate architecture.
17. Silent Valley National Park – Untouched Wilderness
Silent Valley National Park is one of the last undisturbed tracts of tropical rainforest in India. Located in the Western Ghats, the park is a haven for biodiversity, with several rare and endangered species.
How to explore: Take a guided eco-tour to fully experience the beauty and richness of the park’s wildlife.
18. Idukki – A Scenic Mountain Retreat
Idukki is a beautiful mountain district known for its sprawling dams and sanctuaries. The Idukki Arch Dam, which is the world’s second-highest arch dam, is a major attraction. You can also explore the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to elephants, bison, and more.
Best for: Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
19. Palakkad – The Gateway to Kerala
Palakkad is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. The Palakkad Fort is a popular tourist attraction, while the Malampuzha Dam and gardens offer a picturesque picnic spot.
Best time to visit: September to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
20. Kottayam – The Land of Letters, Lakes, and Latex
Kottayam is famous for its rubber plantations and beautiful backwaters. It’s also an important cultural center called the “Land of Letters” because of its rich literary tradition.
Highlight: A backwater cruise through the canals of Kottayam is a must-do for experiencing rural Kerala life.
Kerala offers various experiences, from serene beaches and hill stations to rich cultural heritage and exciting wildlife adventures. Whether you’re looking to relax on a houseboat in Alleppey or trek through the Western Ghats in Wayanad, Kerala has something to offer every type of traveler. So pack your bags and get ready to explore 20 Must-Visit Places in Kerala God’s Own Country!
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is between September and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring. - How many days do I need to explore Kerala?
You can cover the major attractions in Kerala in 7-10 days, but a longer stay allows for a more relaxed experience. - Is Kerala suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, Kerala is the safest place for solo travelers in India. - Which are the most popular beaches in Kerala?
The most famous beaches in Kerala include Kovalam Beach, Varkala Beach, and Marari Beach. - Can I travel to Kerala on a budget?
Yes, Kerala offers a range of accommodation and travel options suitable for all budget ranges.
