Explore the Best Kerala Trip Places – A Complete Travel Guide
Kerala, fondly known as “God’s Own Country”, is a paradise tucked away in the southwestern corner of India. With its lush landscapes, tranquil backwaters, pristine beaches, and cultural richness, Kerala offers a diverse experience to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a nature lover, a honeymooner, or an adventure seeker, there’s no dearth of Kerala trip places to explore. This guide covers the top places to visit in Kerala and everything you need to plan your perfect vacation.
1. Munnar – The Enchanting Hill Station
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is among the most famous hill stations in Kerala. Surrounded by rolling tea gardens, misty valleys, and waterfalls, Munnar is a dream destination for couples and nature lovers. Key attractions here include:
Tea Museum
Eravikulam National Park
Mattupetty Dam
Echo Point
It’s also one of the top-rated Kerala honeymoon destinations due to its romantic weather and scenic views.
2. Alleppey – The Backwater Heaven
Alleppey (Alappuzha) is synonymous with the backwaters of Kerala. Taking a houseboat cruise through its serene canals is an unforgettable experience. You can witness local village life, paddy fields, and coconut groves along the route.
Popular activities:
Houseboat Stay
Shikara Ride
Visit Alappuzha Beach
Snake Boat Races (in August)
Alleppey is a must-visit spot for anyone searching for Kerala tourist places that offer both relaxation and cultural immersion.
3. Kochi – The Queen of the Arabian Sea
Kochi (Cochin) is a vibrant port city blending colonial charm and modernity. Known for its historic sites and cosmopolitan vibes, Kochi is ideal for cultural enthusiasts.
Key attractions:
Fort Kochi
Chinese Fishing Nets
Mattancherry Palace
Jew Town and Synagogue
Marine Drive
Kochi is often the starting point of most Kerala tour packages, thanks to its well-connected airport and urban infrastructure.
4. Thekkady – Home to Wildlife and Spice Gardens
If you are looking for an adventurous side to your Kerala trip, head to Thekkady. Located near Periyar National Park, Thekkady offers boat safaris, jungle walks, and visits to spice plantations.
Top highlights:
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Bamboo Rafting
Elephant Rides
Spice Garden Tours
It’s an ideal location for eco-tourism and ranks high among Kerala travel destinations for nature and wildlife lovers.
5. Wayanad – Nature’s Hidden Treasure
Wayanad is one of the least explored yet most beautiful places to visit in Kerala. With dense forests, waterfalls, caves, and wildlife sanctuaries, Wayanad is perfect for offbeat travelers.
Must-see spots:
Edakkal Caves
Banasura Sagar Dam
Soochipara Falls
Chembra Peak (heart-shaped lake trek)
Wayanad also offers great opportunities for trekking and camping, making it a hotspot for adventure tourism in Kerala.
6. Kumarakom – Backwaters, Birds, and Bliss
Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a quieter alternative to Alleppey. This backwater village is famous for the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and its luxurious houseboat experiences.
Top experiences:
Bird Watching
Lake Resorts Stay
Traditional Kerala Massage
Sunset Cruises
If you’re planning a serene getaway, Kumarakom is among the best Kerala sightseeing destinations for peace and privacy.
7. Varkala – Cliffside Beach Paradise
Unlike other beach destinations, Varkala offers a unique setting with red laterite cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. It’s a tranquil alternative to bustling beaches and is often considered a spiritual hub.
Best things to do:
Visit Varkala Beach & Cliff
Janardhana Swamy Temple
Surfing and Yoga Retreats
Ayurvedic Therapies
Varkala is a great pick for those looking for Kerala tourist places with a blend of beach, spirituality, and relaxation.
8. Kovalam – The Famous Beach Destination
Kovalam is a globally recognized beach town and one of the oldest Kerala travel destinations. The crescent-shaped beaches of Kovalam are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Places to visit:
Lighthouse Beach
Hawa Beach
Samudra Beach
Ayurvedic centers and yoga ashrams
It’s one of the best places for beach lovers and a must-visit stop in Kerala tour packages tailored for leisure travelers.
9. Athirappilly – The Niagara of India
Athirappilly Waterfalls is one of the most stunning natural attractions in Kerala. Cascading from a height of 80 feet, it is the largest waterfall in Kerala and resembles a mini version of Niagara Falls.
Why visit:
Athirappilly and Vazhachal Waterfalls
Jungle Safari in Sholayar Forest
Filming locations of many South Indian movies
If your Kerala trip includes a visit to Thrissur or Kochi, do not skip Athirappilly – it’s a perfect spot for day excursions.
10. Trivandrum – Capital City with Cultural Riches
The capital city, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), is a blend of cultural heritage and urban life. It is home to ancient temples, museums, and pristine beaches.
Top attractions:
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Napier Museum
Kovalam Beach
Ponmudi Hills
Trivandrum is ideal for those who wish to explore the cultural fabric and is often included in extended Kerala trip places itineraries.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
The ideal time to explore Kerala sightseeing spots is during the winter season (October to March), when the weather is pleasant and suitable for houseboats, beach walks, and wildlife safaris. Monsoon months (June to September) are perfect for Ayurvedic treatments, while summer (April to May) is great for visiting the hill stations in Kerala like Munnar and Wayanad.
How to Plan Your Kerala Trip
To get the most out of your vacation, consider booking customizable Kerala tour packages that cover destinations like Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kochi – Kovalam – Trivandrum – Wayanad in one go. Most packages offer stays in deluxe hotels, houseboats, meals, transportation, and guided sightseeing.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly or luxury packages, visit Antriksh Travel – Kerala Tour Packages to explore tailor-made options for families, couples, and groups.
