Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is one of the most picturesque destinations in India. With its lush greenery, serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Kerala offers every traveler a wide range of experiences. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the beach, explore historical sites, or immerse yourself in nature, Kerala tourist places have it all.
In this guide, we’ll take you through tourist places in Kerala with pictures to help you visualize your upcoming trip.
Why Kerala Should Be on Your Travel List?
Kerala is known for its diverse landscapes, which include tranquil beaches, misty hill stations, and unique backwater networks. Here’s what makes Kerala a top destination:
- Backwaters: Kerala’s backwaters, particularly in Alappuzha and Kumarakom, offer an unmatched peaceful experience on a houseboat.
- Beaches: Kerala’s coastline stretches over 550 kilometers and is home to some of the most scenic beaches in India.
- Hill Stations: Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady are some of the most popular hill stations in Kerala, perfect for those who love nature and cool weather.
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: Kerala is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, like Periyar and Silent Valley, where you can enjoy a safari experience.
Now, let’s dive into some of the best tourist places in Kerala that should be a part of your travel itinerary.
Famous Attractions in Kerala for Tour Planning
1. Munnar – The Tea Garden Paradise
Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats, is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Kerala. The town is known for its rolling tea plantations, cool climate, and stunning landscapes. Munnar offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is the perfect blend of nature, adventure, and history.
Key Attractions:
- Tea Plantations: Munnar is renowned for its expansive tea estates. You can visit the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, the highest tea plantation in the world. Walking through the tea gardens, you’ll feel the refreshing breeze as you witness the tea-plucking process.
- Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this national park is perfect for trekking. The park is also famous for Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.
- Mattupetty Dam: Located about 13 km from Munnar, this dam offers boating facilities and scenic views. The surrounding hills make it an ideal spot for a picnic.
- Attukal Waterfalls: Hidden among dense forests, this two-tier waterfall is a picturesque location for hiking and photography.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Munnar is between October and March when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.
2. Alappuzha (Alleppey) – Venice of the East
Alappuzha, often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” is famous for its backwaters, houseboats, and tranquil lakes. A visit to Alappuzha feels like stepping into a dream where time slows down amidst the shimmering waters, swaying coconut palms, and lush green landscapes.
Tourist Places in Alappuzha:
- Houseboat Cruise: A stay in one of the traditional Kerala houseboats is a must. These floating cottages cruise along the Vembanad Lake, offering views of paddy fields, traditional Kerala villages, and migratory birds.
- Krishnapuram Palace: This ancient palace is known for its Keralan-style architecture and its museum showcasing ancient art and antiques. The highlight is the stunning mural of Gajendra Moksha, one of the largest murals in Kerala.
- Alappuzha Beach: Alappuzha Beach is a long stretch of golden sand, perfect for a relaxed day out. The historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the town.
- Revi Karunakaran Museum: A museum that holds an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, and crystal artifacts. It’s a great place for history and art enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit is from October to March, as the weather is pleasant and ideal for backwater cruises.
3. Kochi (Cochin) – The Cultural Capital
Kochi is one of Kerala’s most vibrant cities, with a blend of historical, cultural, and modern influences. It’s also a major gateway to Kerala and one of the best places to start your Kerala journey.
Key Attractions:
- Fort Kochi: This area has a Portuguese colonial influence with its charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant art scene. The Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried, are iconic spots.
- Mattancherry Palace: Known as the Dutch Palace, this historic building showcases beautiful murals depicting the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It was once the home of the Portuguese and Dutch governors.
- Jew Town: Explore the narrow lanes of Jew Town, home to the Paradesi Synagogue (the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth). It’s a perfect place to shop for antiques and jewelry.
- Marine Drive: A promenade offering views of the backwaters, with many cafes and shops. You can take a boat ride to explore the coastline.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Kochi is between November and March when the weather is cool and ideal for sightseeing.
4. Kovalam – The Beach Paradise
Kovalam, located near Trivandrum, is one of the best beach Kerala tourist places. Famous for its crescent-shaped beaches and palm-fringed shores, Kovalam is a popular destination for beach lovers and those looking to relax by the sea.
Key Attractions:
- Lighthouse Beach: The most famous beach in Kovalam, known for its towering lighthouse. It’s perfect for a swim, beach sports, or simply watching the waves crash onto the shore.
- Hawah Beach: This is the quieter of the beaches, ideal for a peaceful escape. You can enjoy sunbathing or take a walk along the shoreline.
- Vellayani Lake: Located about 7 km from Kovalam, this serene freshwater lake is perfect for a quiet boat ride amidst nature.
- Ayurvedic Spas: Kovalam is also famous for its Ayurvedic centers, offering traditional Kerala treatments. It’s the ideal place for rejuvenation and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Kovalam is between November and March when the weather is warm but not overly hot.
5. Thekkady – The Wildlife Haven
Thekkady is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, thanks to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It is one of the most popular destinations for eco-tourism and offers various experiences like boat safaris and spice plantation tours.
Key Attractions:
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. A boat ride through Periyar Lake gives you the chance to spot wildlife while cruising through the sanctuary.
- Spice Plantations: Thekkady is surrounded by sprawling spice plantations. You can take a guided tour to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
- Vandanmedu: Known for being the largest producer of cardamom in India, it offers scenic views and a chance to explore the spice gardens.
- Kalari Martial Arts: Experience traditional Kalari performances, an ancient martial art form that originated in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Thekkady is from November to April when the weather is cool and dry.
6. Varkala – A Coastal Gem
Varkala, located in the Thiruvananthapuram district, is one of Kerala’s most picturesque coastal towns. It’s famous for its cliffs, beaches, and temples, making it a perfect getaway for both spiritual seekers and beach lovers.
Key Attractions:
- Varkala Beach: Known for its stunning cliffs and golden sand, Varkala Beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also famous for its natural springs.
- Papanasam Beach: This sacred beach is believed to wash away sins. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for reflection and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
- Janardanaswamy Temple: An ancient Vishnu temple located near the beach. It attracts pilgrims and travelers alike.
- Cliffside Cafes: Enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee at the many cafes overlooking the sea. It’s an excellent spot to unwind while enjoying the sunset.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Varkala is between September and March when the weather is pleasant for beach activities.
7. Wayanad – The Green Heaven
Wayanad, located in the northeastern part of Kerala, is a nature lover’s paradise. Surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries, Wayanad offers a peaceful retreat from the busy tourist hubs.
Key Attractions:
- Edakkal Caves: These caves are famous for their ancient petroglyphs, which date back over 6,000 years. The hike to the caves is equally rewarding, offering scenic views of the surrounding forest.
- Pookode Lake: This serene freshwater lake is surrounded by forests and is ideal for boating. The area is also perfect for nature walks.
- Soochipara Waterfalls: Also known as the Syrup Waterfalls, it is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense forest, offering great opportunities for photography and hiking.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. You can enjoy a safari through the sanctuary to spot wildlife.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Wayanad is between October and May, avoiding the monsoon months when the waterfalls are at their fullest.
8. Bekal – Fort and Beach Combo
Bekal is famous for the Bekal Fort, one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala. The fort offers panoramic views of the sea and is a must-visit for history buffs and beach lovers.
Key Attractions:
- Bekal Fort: Built in the 17th century, the fort is a marvel of military architecture. It has a strategic location overlooking the Arabian Sea. The fort’s observation towers are ideal for a bird’s eye view of the coastline.
- Bekal Beach: The beach near the fort is peaceful, with golden sands and gentle waves. It’s perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
- Bekal Hole Aqua Park: Located near the beach, this park is a family-friendly spot with water rides, making it a fun place for children.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Bekal is between November and February when the weather is cool and dry.
9. Athirappilly – The Niagara of India
Often referred to as the “Niagara of India,” Athirappilly is Kerala’s largest waterfall. It’s located in the Thrissur district and is one of the most famous natural attractions in the state. Athirappilly is a haven for nature lovers and photographers due to its awe-inspiring beauty and the surrounding lush forest.
Key Attractions:
- Athirappilly Waterfalls: The main attraction is the stunning Athirappilly Waterfall, which drops from a height of about 80 feet. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests, offering a perfect setting for adventure activities like trekking, photography, and bird-watching.
- Vazhachal Waterfalls: Located just a few kilometers away from Athirappilly, this waterfall is smaller but equally beautiful. It’s less crowded, making it a peaceful alternative to Athirappilly.
- Rainforest Walks: The area around Athirappilly is covered with thick rainforests, home to several species of flora and fauna. You can go on guided walks through the forest to spot exotic plants and animals.
- Charpa Waterfalls: This small but charming waterfall is located near the road leading to Athirappilly and is perfect for a quick stop while exploring the region.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Athirappilly is during the monsoon season (June to September), when the waterfall is in full flow and the surrounding landscape is lush and green. However, for a more tranquil visit, November to March offers pleasant weather.
10. Thrissur – The Cultural Capital of Kerala
Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of Kerala. This city in central Kerala is rich in history, culture, and festivals. Thrissur is home to ancient temples, and colonial architecture, and is famous for hosting the Thrissur Pooram, one of the largest and most vibrant temple festivals in the world.
Key Attractions:
- Vadakkunnathan Temple: The Vadakkunnathan Temple is the heart of Thrissur’s spiritual life and is one of the oldest and most significant Hindu temples in Kerala. It’s dedicated to Lord Shiva and has beautiful murals and paintings that date back centuries.
- Thrissur Pooram: The Thrissur Pooram is Kerala’s most famous temple festival. Held every year in April or May, the festival attracts thousands of people who come to witness the grand procession of decorated elephants, traditional percussion music, and spectacular fireworks.
- Thrissur Zoo and Museum: Located in the heart of the city, the zoo is home to a variety of animals like elephants, tigers, and bears. The adjoining museum showcases artifacts from Kerala’s past.
- Athirappilly Waterfalls: As mentioned earlier, this waterfall is a short drive from Thrissur and is one of the major natural attractions in the area.
- Paramekavu Bhagavathy Temple: This ancient temple is famous for its grand architecture and peaceful surroundings. It is one of the important places of worship in Thrissur.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Thrissur is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant. If you want to experience Kerala’s vibrant cultural festivals, plan your visit during Thrissur Pooram (April-May).
Best Time to Visit Kerala
| Season | Months | Weather | Best For |
| Winter | November to February | Cool & Pleasant | Houseboats, sightseeing, beaches |
| Monsoon | June to September | Rainy & Green | Ayurveda treatments, lush landscapes |
| Summer | March to May | Hot & Humid | Budget travel, fewer crowds |
How to Reach Kerala
By Air:
Kerala has several international airports, including Cochin International Airport, Trivandrum International Airport, and Kochi International Airport, making it accessible from almost anywhere.
By Train:
Kerala has a well-developed railway network, with major stations in cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Alappuzha.
By Road:
You can easily drive into Kerala from neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Kerala’s roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views during your drive.
Conclusion: Why Kerala Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Kerala is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and diverse travel destinations in South India. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous wildlife experience, or a cultural immersion, Kerala has it all. From the backwaters of Alappuzha to the lush tea gardens of Munnar and the historic forts of Bekal, there are important tourist places in Kerala for every type of traveler. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Kerala’s most beautiful tourist places for an unforgettable experience!
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