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Destinations
Best Tourist Places in Kerala: Top 20 Must-Visit Guide
Team Social Exoticamp
12 Mar 2025
Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is a traveler's dream come true. Kerala offers unlimited experiences, from tranquil backwaters and immaculate beaches to foggy hill stations and verdant tea gardens.
Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking for a relaxing retreat, Kerala has something for everyone. In this blog, we'll explore the top 20 tourist places in Kerala that you must visit.
From rolling tea plantations to sun-kissed beaches, Kerala offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. Every destination here is a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure, making it easier to compare the top places based on your travel style. Let’s take a look at the best places to visit in this list of 20 must-see destinations!
If there's one place in Kerala that manages to capture the heart of every traveller irrespective of their interests, it's Munnar. Embraced by sprawling tea plantations, cool mountain breeze and breathtaking scenery, this dreamy hill station sits at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level and is home to the rare Neelakurinji bloom.
As one of the prominent hill destinations in the state, Munnar is also one of the most popular choices for honeymooners, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts alike, welcoming them with its misty hills, lush green valleys, and soothing breeze.
Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom are famous for their enchanting backwaters, making them among the most famous backwater experiences and the best tourist places in Kerala. A houseboat cruise on the backwaters through these serene waters is an experience you should not miss. The labyrinth of canals, coconut groves, and floating villages creates an unforgettable setting, and each destination has a peaceful charm ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Wayanad, nestled in the Western Ghats, is one of the best places for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its lush forests, misty hills, and rich wildlife, it's a top pick for those exploring tourist places in Kerala. There are charming villages, spice plantations, and cultural sites across the region, making it a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, with enough time worth setting aside to enjoy the main attractions in and around Wayanad.
Thekkady is one of Kerala's most fascinating tourist destinations for those who love animals and is home to notable wildlife experiences. The Periyar National Park is an exciting place to visit because of its rich biodiversity and lush forests, and is also a great draw for nature lovers seeking scenic wilderness. The area is a sensory joy and is well-known for its fragrant spice crops.
If you are looking for an offbeat experience, Vagamon is one of the best places to escape to for a hill retreat in Kerala. Nestled amidst lush greenery, mist-covered valleys, and rolling meadows, it offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Vagamon maintains its natural beauty in contrast to some of the more commercialised hill stations, which makes it the perfect retreat for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for tranquillity away from the bustle of the city.
The ideal option for escaping into nature is with Exoticamp's Vagamon Camping Experience. Imagine enjoying the comforts of a bonfire in the evenings while lodging in cosy tents amid the tranquil beauty of the hills. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sunrise and clean mountain air as you awaken. This camping experience offers a special opportunity to peacefully and immersively interact with nature, regardless of your preference for action or relaxation.
Cochin, another name for Kochi, is one of Kerala's most popular tourist destinations and an important cultural stop on the Kerala tourism circuit, fusing modernism with a wealth of historical influences. The city is charming because of its colonial architecture, vibrant marketplaces, breathtaking coastline, and intriguing blend of British, Portuguese, and Dutch traditions, which also make it one of the notable heritage-rich coastal cities in India. Its waterfront character is further highlighted by the Chinese fishing nets, while Kochi is also known for having one of the finest natural harbors in the world.
With its unspoiled forests, stunning scenery, and tranquil environment, Gavi is a hidden treasure among Kerala's tourist destinations. This ecotourism destination, which is part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers looking for unique things to do in Kerala, and it also stands out among the many destinations in the state for travelers who prefer quieter, nature-first experiences away from the bustle of the city.
For beach enthusiasts, Varkala is one of Kerala's most popular coastal choices. Varkala is a distinctive and beautiful location that stands out from other Keralan beaches due to its striking red laterite cliffs that border the Arabian Sea. It's the ideal retreat for backpackers, couples, and solo travellers, with lively cafes, peaceful beaches, and a spiritual atmosphere.
Bekal, located in northern Kerala, is a standout stop on many North Kerala itineraries and among the notable places to visit in the region. With its enormous walls and keyhole-shaped structure, the fort and its Arabian Sea setting are the defining features that provide stunning sweeping vistas and have served as a backdrop for a number of Bollywood productions. Bekal is the perfect place for history aficionados, beach lovers, and photographers because of its tranquil atmosphere and historical significance.
Athirapally Falls deserves a place on any Kerala travel list. A favourite with waterfall lovers, it is Kerala's largest waterfall. The spectacular cascade drops 80 feet through dense rainforests and looks especially impressive during the monsoon. Athirapally's nickname comes from the water's overwhelming force and the surrounding lush flora, which evoke the majesty of Niagara Falls.
Kovalam is one of the most popular beach destinations in Kerala, known for its crescent-shaped shoreline, swaying coconut palms, and exciting nightlife. Kovalam provides the ideal fusion of leisure, exploration, and cultural encounters thanks to its three nearby beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach.
Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital of Kerala, is home to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and seamlessly blends cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern attractions. From centuries-old temples to serene beaches and vibrant museums, Trivandrum offers a well-rounded experience for travelers and remains one of the most rewarding places to visit in Kerala.
Thrissur, often called the ‘Cultural Capital of Kerala,' is a city steeped in history and tradition. It is famous for its temples, classical arts, and vibrant festivals, particularly the grand Thrissur Pooram, and the city is also well connected via Thrissur railway station.
Idukki, a paradise for nature lovers, is among the best places to visit in Kerala, known for its rolling hills, wildlife sanctuaries, and impressive hydroelectric projects. The region offers breathtaking views and serene landscapes, while its dam belt is also appealing for wildlife-focused trips, making it a perfect destination in Kerala for adventure seekers and peace lovers alike.
Palakkad, also known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala,' is famous as one of the scenic gateway districts of Kerala, known for its lush landscapes, historical sites, and serene environment. The city serves as a vital link between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, offering a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Kozhikode (Calicut) is a coastal city known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious Malabar cuisine, and is also a noted food destination. Once a major trading hub for spices in Kerala and one of the most historically significant port cities in India, the city offers a unique mix of colonial influences and local culture.
Located in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Kerala’s most unique ecological zones, known for its dry deciduous forests, wildlife, and tribal settlements.
Ponmudi, meaning "Golden Peak," is a picturesque hill station in the Western Ghats. Known for its winding roads, lush green tea estates, and mist-covered hills, it’s a perfect getaway in Kerala for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Kerala's largest reservoir is located in the picturesque town of Malampuzha, which is part of Palakkad and offers a variety of gardens, dams, and adventure activities. Families and anyone who enjoy the outdoors will love this place.
A hidden jewel in Kerala's backwaters, Munroe Island provides a peaceful haven with picturesque canals, verdant coconut plantations, and a traditional village way of life. It's a fantastic substitute for the busier backwater locations like Alleppey.
Kerala is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you're looking for.
This is the peak tourist season in Kerala, offering pleasant weather and cool breezes, making it perfect for sightseeing, backwater cruises, and beach vacations.
Why visit in winter?
While the coastal areas experience high humidity, hill stations in Kerala like Munnar, Vagamon, and Idukki remain pleasant. This is one of the best times to book Ayurvedic resorts and enjoy rejuvenating treatments, wellness retreats, and traditional healing practices.
Why visit in summer?
Kerala receives heavy rainfall, making the landscapes lush and refreshing. It is the best time to indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and witness the beauty of the backwaters in their full glory.
Why visit in monsoon?
Kerala offers a wealth of breathtaking scenery, a vibrant culture, and exhilarating experiences. This lovely state offers something for everyone, whether you're searching for a wildlife adventure in Thekkady, a romantic houseboat vacation in Alleppey, or a hill station retreat in Munnar. Kerala is a must-visit location for tourists from all over the world since each of these tourist attractions delivers a distinctive experience.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore God’s Own Country!
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