Top 10 Tourist Places in Kerala – Your Ultimate Travel Guide

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Top 10 Tourist Places in Kerala – Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Kerala is fondly called “God’s Own Country,” and a treasure trove of lush landscapes, calm backwaters, vibrant culture and pristine beaches. Whether you are planning a romantic escape, a family vacation or a solo adventure this southern paradise has something for everyone. From hill stations to beaches Kerala is home to some of the most beautiful tourist places in India.

top 10 tourist places in kerala
Kovalam beach Trivandrum (Image source-Insta)

Here is a detailed guide to the top 10 tourist places in Kerala including where to stay, how to get there, things to do and the best time to visit. I have personally visited these spots, and trust me each one is unforgettable!

Discover the top 10 tourist places in Kerala for an unforgettable journey! Explore Munnar’s tea gardens, cruise through Alleppey’s calm backwaters and relax on Kovalam’s beaches. Experience the wildlife of Thekkady, the lush forests of Wayanad and the cliffs of Varkala. From Kochi’s heritage charm to Athirapally’s majestic waterfalls Kerala offers something for everyone. Start planning your dream trip now to experience the beauty of “God’s Own Country”!

Munnar – The Queen of the Hills

Why Visit Munnar?

Munnar is one of the best tourist places in Kerala offering misty hills, sprawling tea gardens and serene waterfalls. It is perfect destination for honeymooners, families and nature enthusiasts that makes it top 5 tourist places in Kerala

Munnar
Munnar (Image source-Insta)

How to Reach Munnar

  • By Air: Munnar is 107 km from Cochin International Airport.
  • By Train: Munnar is 108 km from Aluva Railway Station.
  • By Road: Drive on scenic route from Kochi or Coimbatore to reach Munnar.

Where to Stay in Munnar

  • Luxury: Fragrant Nature Munnar – ₹25,000/night. A luxurious retreat with stunning hill views.
  • Budget: Green View Inn – ₹1,800/night. Affordable with great amenities.
  • “Book your cozy stay in Munnar today!”

Things to Do in Munnar

  • Explore Eravikulam National Park and spot the Nilgiri Tahr.
  • Visit Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake.
  • Walk through lush tea plantations.

Best Time to Visit Munnar

MUNNAR WEATHER

September to March period is good for cool and pleasant weather.

Alleppey – The Backwater Paradise

Why Visit Alleppey?

Alleppey is known as the “Venice of the East,” and one of the Kerala famous places for its calm backwaters and houseboat experiences making it one of the top places to visit in Kerala.

Alleppey
Alleppey (Image source-Insta)

How to Reach Alleppey

  • By Air: Alleppey is at the distance of 88 km away from Cochin International Airport.
  • By Train: Alleppey Railway Station is major railway station connected with major cities.
  • By Road: Easily accessible from Kochi or Trivandrum.

Where to Stay in Alleppey

Things to Do in Alleppey

Best Time to Visit Alleppey

ALLEPPEY WEATHER

November to February is the perfect period for the best houseboat experiences.

Kochi – The Queen of the Arabian Sea

Why Visit Kochi?

Kochi blends modernity with history and offering a unique mix of colonial architecture, vibrant markets and cultural landmarks. It is one of the best family tourist places in Kerala.

Kochi City
Kochi City (Image source-Wikimedia)

How to Reach Kochi

  • By Air: Cochin International Airport serve the city and nearest.
  • By Train: Ernakulam Junction Railway Station is well connected with rail network of major cities.
  • By Road: Well-connected to major cities like Bangalore and Chennai through National Highway.

Where to Stay in Kochi

Things to Do in Kochi

  • Stroll along Fort Kochi and visit Chinese Fishing Nets.
  • Explore Mattancherry Palace and Jew Town.
  • Watch a Kathakali performance at Kerala Folklore Museum that makes Kochi beautiful places in Kerala.

Best Time to Visit Kochi

KOCHI WEATHER

October to March is the best months for pleasant weather and vibrant festivals.

Wayanad – The Green Haven

Why Visit Wayanad?

Wayanad is known for its lush forests, stunning waterfalls and tranquil atmosphere that is making it one of the best places to visit in Kerala. Wayanad is also famous for best location in Kerala for tourist.

Thollayiram view point Wayanad
Thollayiram view point Wayanad (Image source-Wikimedia)

How to Reach Wayanad

  • By Air: Wayanad is 92 km from Calicut International Airport.
  • By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station distance from Wayanad is 86 km.
  • By Road: Take a scenic drive from Bangalore or Calicut to reach Wayanad.

Where to Stay in Wayanad

Things to Do in Wayanad

  • Visit Edakkal Caves for ancient rock carvings which is famous as Kerala picnic spot.
  • Trek to Chembra Peak for panoramic views.
  • Explore Meenmutty and Soochipara Waterfalls.

Best Time to Visit Wayanad

WAYANAD WEATHER

October to May period is best for trekking and sightseeing.

Thekkady – Wildlife Wonderland

Why Visit Thekkady?

Thekkady is home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and one of the best places to visit in Kerala with family.

Thekkady
Thekkady (Image source-Wikimedia)

How to Reach Thekkady

  • By Air: You can reach Thekkady by Madurai Airport that is 162 km away or you can reach Thekkady from Cochin International Airport that is 142 km away.
  • By Train: Kottayam Railway Station is nearest railway station and it is 106 km away.
  • By Road: Thekkady is well-connected to Kochi, Madurai and Trivandrum.

Where to Stay in Thekkady

Things to Do in Thekkady

  • Spot elephants and tigers on a Periyar Lake boat safari.
  • Visit spice plantations for an aromatic experience.
  • Enjoy bamboo rafting or trekking in the sanctuary.

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

THEKKADY WEATHER

March to June is perfect for wildlife sightings and lush scenery.

Kovalam – Beachside Bliss

Why Visit Kovalam?

Kovalam is a coastal gem and one of the important tourist places in Kerala to visit in December. Kovalam is one of the best tourist spots in Kerala and perfect for beach lovers and honeymooners.

How to Reach Kovalam

  • By Air: Trivandrum International Airport serve Kovalam and it is at distance of15 km.
  • By Train: Trivandrum Central Railway Station is well connected with railway network and 13 km from Kovalam.
  • By Road: Kovalam is a short drive from Trivandrum city.

Where to Stay in Kovalam

  • Luxury: The Leela Kovalam – ₹20,000/night. A luxurious clifftop resort.
  • Budget: Hotel Neelakanta – ₹2,000/night. Affordable with beachfront access.
  • “Book your beach retreat in Kovalam now!”

Things to Do in Kovalam

  • Relax on Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach.
  • Indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatments.
  • Take a catamaran ride along the coast.

Best Time to Visit Kovalam

KOVALAM WEATHER

November to May period is the perfect for calm seas and pleasant weather.

Varkala – The Cliffside Retreat

Why Visit Varkala?

Varkala is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Kerala that is offering dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. It is a haven for beach lovers and wellness seekers.

Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach (Image source-Wikimedia)

How to Reach Varkala

  • By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is 45 km from Varkala.
  • By Train: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station is the nearest Railway Station.
  • By Road: Varkala is well-connected by road to Trivandrum.

Where to Stay in Varkala

Things to Do in Varkala

  • Relax on Papanasam Beach.
  • Visit the ancient Janardanaswamy Temple.
  • Indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and yoga retreats.

Best Time to Visit Varkala

VARKALA WEATHER

November to March period is perfect for ideal weather to enjoy sight seeing.

Bekal – Forts and Beaches

Why Visit Bekal?

Bekal is one of the best tourist places in Kerala for couples and families with its stunning beaches and historic fort. If you are history lover then it is must visit places in Kerala for you.

Bekal fort kasaragod
Bekal fort kasaragod (Image source-Wikimedia)

How to Reach Bekal

  • By Air: Bekal is 71 km from Mangalore International Airport.
  • By Train: Bekal fort Railway Station is nearest one.
  • By Road: Bekal is easily accessible from Kasaragod or Mangalore.

Where to Stay in Bekal

Things to Do in Bekal

  • Explore the historic Bekal Fort.
  • Relax on Bekal Beach and enjoy the sunset.
  • Indulge in spa treatments at a riverside resort.

Best Time to Visit Bekal

BEKAL WEATHER

October to May is best period for pleasant weather.

Athirapally – The Land of Waterfalls

Why Visit Athirapally?

Athirapally Waterfalls is known as the “Niagara of India,” and one of the top tourist places in Kerala for nature lovers.

How to Reach Athirapally

  • By Air: Cochin International Airport is at distance of 33 km from Athirapally.
  • By Train: Chalakudy Railway Station is 27 km away from Athirapally.
  • By Road: Easily accessible from Kochi and Thrissur.

Where to Stay in Athirapally

Things to Do in Athirapally

  • Hike to the base of Athirapally Waterfalls.
  • Explore Vazhachal Waterfalls.
  • Spot birds in the nearby Sholayar Forests.

Best Time to Visit Athirapally

KOCHI WEATHER

September to February months are best for stunning waterfall views.

Malampuzha – The Garden Town

Why Visit Malampuzha?

Malampuzha is one of the unique places to visit in Kerala famous for its scenic dam and gardens and a charming destination for families.

Malampuzha dam
Malampuzha dam (Image source-Wikimedia)

How to Reach Malampuzha

  • By Air: Coimbatore Airport is at distance of 60 km.
  • By Train: Palakkad Junction Railway Station is at a distance of 9 km.
  • By Road: Malampuzha is easily accessible from Coimbatore and Palakkad.

Where to Stay in Malampuzha

Things to Do in Malampuzha

  • Visit the Malampuzha Dam and Rock Garden.
  • Enjoy a cable car ride over the dam.
  • Explore the Snake Park and Aquarium.

Best Time to Visit Malampuzha

MALAMPUZHA WEATHER

October to February months is best for cool weather and blooming gardens.

Travel Essentials for a Kerala Top tourist destination

Flights and Car Rentals

Packing Accessories

Travel Insurance

  • Protect your trip with comprehensive travel insurance.

Conclusion – Experience Kerala’s Magic

From hill stations like Munnar to backwaters in Alleppey and the beaches of Kovalam, these top 10 tourist places in Kerala promise unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re traveling with family, on a honeymoon, or seeking solo adventures, Kerala has something for everyone.

“Plan your Kerala adventure with exclusive deals on stays, flights, and packages!”

FAQ

What are the best tourist places to visit in Kerala?

Kerala has many gems! Top picks include Munnar for its tea gardens, Alleppey for backwater cruises, Kochi for its cultural heritage, Wayanad for lush forests, and Kovalam for pristine beaches.

Which places in Kerala are good for a family trip?

For families, destinations like Thekkady for wildlife safaris, Malampuzha for gardens and dams, and Athirapally for waterfalls are perfect. Kochi is also a great spot with its mix of culture and modernity.

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

October to March is the best time to visit Kerala. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. For hill stations like Munnar, the monsoon season (June to September) also offers a magical experience.

Are there any good one-day trip destinations in Kerala?

Yes! Kochi is perfect for a cultural day trip, Athirapally for its waterfalls, and Malampuzha for a relaxing picnic amidst scenic beauty.

How can I plan a budget-friendly trip to Kerala?

Book early for discounts on flights and accommodations, choose budget-friendly homestays, and explore package deals for houseboats and guided tours. Renting a car can also help you travel efficiently.

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