35 Incredible Places to Visit in Kerala, India’s Tropical Paradise (Kerala Travel)
35 Incredible Places to Visit in Kerala, India’s Tropical Paradise
Kerala, fondly known as “God’s Own Country,” is a breathtaking state in southern India renowned for its lush greenery, intricate backwaters, and cultural heritage. From serene beaches to vibrant hill stations and historic landmarks, Kerala offers a diverse landscape for every kind of traveler.
Here’s a guide to 35 must-visit destinations in Kerala.
1. Munnar
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a charming hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations, misty valleys, and colonial heritage. Don’t miss the picturesque landscapes at Echo Point and the tranquil Mattupetty Dam.
2. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Famous for its enchanting backwaters and houseboat cruises, Alleppey offers a unique experience of floating along coconut palm-fringed canals. It’s also a popular destination for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
3. Kumarakom
Located on the shores of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a paradise for bird lovers. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a popular spot, as well as the serene houseboat rides across the lake.
4. Thekkady
Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is ideal for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Jungle safaris, bamboo rafting, and elephant rides are some popular activities here.
5. Wayanad
Wayanad is a lush hill station known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and ancient caves. Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagar Dam are must-see attractions.
6. Kovalam
Kovalam is one of Kerala’s top beach destinations, known for its crescent-shaped beaches like Lighthouse Beach, Samudra Beach, and Hawa Beach. It’s a perfect destination for sunbathing, surfing, and ayurvedic massages.
7. Kochi (Cochin)
Kochi, a bustling port city, showcases a blend of traditional and modern elements. Visit Fort Kochi for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and the Mattancherry Palace.
8. Varkala
Famous for its red cliffs and pristine beaches, Varkala Beach is known as the “Papanasam Beach,” believed to have holy waters that wash away sins. The cliffside restaurants and sunset views are unmissable.
9. Athirappilly Waterfalls
Known as the “Niagara of India,” Athirappilly Waterfalls is a stunning natural marvel where you can witness the power and beauty of the Chalakudy River.
10. Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)
The capital city is rich in cultural heritage with attractions like the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kuthira Malika Palace, and Kovalam Beach.
11. Bekal Fort
Located in Kasaragod, Bekal Fort is one of Kerala’s largest and well-preserved forts, offering sweeping views of the Arabian Sea.
12. Vagamon
A lesser-known hill station, Vagamon is ideal for adventure seekers. With rolling meadows, pine forests, and misty valleys, it’s perfect for trekking, paragliding, and camping.
13. Ponmudi
Another hill station gem, Ponmudi is known for its narrow, winding roads, tea estates, and pleasant climate. Trekking here offers scenic views of the Western Ghats.
14. Thrissur
Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, is famous for the vibrant Thrissur Pooram festival. Other highlights include Vadakkunnathan Temple and Athirappilly Falls nearby.
15. Kozhikode (Calicut)
A city with historical significance, Kozhikode has beautiful beaches like Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama landed. Don’t miss the delicious Kozhikode biryani here!
16. Poovar Island
Poovar is a quiet coastal village where you can enjoy boat rides on the Neyyar River, leading you to secluded beaches and the Arabian Sea.
17. Gavi
An eco-tourism spot in the Pathanamthitta district, Gavi is ideal for nature lovers. It offers trekking, bird-watching, and wildlife spotting.
18. Palakkad
Known as the “Gateway to Kerala,” Palakkad is home to the Palakkad Fort, Malampuzha Dam, and beautiful paddy fields.
19. Malampuzha
This is Kerala’s garden city, featuring the Malampuzha Dam and Rock Garden, which is made from recycled materials. The lush gardens and cable car ride make it a family-friendly spot.
20. Marari Beach
A tranquil beach near Alleppey, Marari is ideal for those looking for a peaceful getaway. The calm waters and scenic beauty make it a hidden gem.
21. Cherai Beach
Located near Kochi, Cherai Beach is known for its long sandy shores and the unique view of the sea merging with the backwaters.
22. Silent Valley National Park
A part of the Western Ghats, Silent Valley is a tropical rainforest and a sanctuary for rare species. It’s a biodiversity hotspot perfect for ecotourism.
23. Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi is an eight-armed lake known for houseboat cruises and its scenic beauty. It’s a quieter alternative to the more popular backwater destinations.
24. Nelliampathy
This hill station is ideal for those looking to escape into nature, with tea and coffee plantations, lush landscapes, and trekking trails.
25. Thalassery
Known for its coastal beauty, Thalassery is also famous for its rich culinary heritage, including the iconic Thalassery biryani.
26. Vazhachal Waterfalls
Near Athirappilly, the Vazhachal Waterfalls offer stunning views and the opportunity to witness Kerala’s natural beauty up close.
27. Kollam
Kollam, another backwater hub, offers a quieter backwater experience. Visit the Thangassery Lighthouse and Kollam Beach.
28. Thenmala
India’s first planned ecotourism destination, Thenmala offers activities like boating, trekking, and nature walks in a serene environment.
29. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
A sanctuary on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, Parambikulam is a protected area for tigers and other wildlife, offering jungle safaris.
30. Kuttanad
Known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala,” Kuttanad is one of the few places where farming is done below sea level. Its landscape is a fascinating interplay of rivers, canals, and paddy fields.
31. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
A lesser-visited sanctuary, Chinnar is home to unique flora and fauna, and even some indigenous tribes, offering a cultural experience.
32. Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
This is one of the few drive-in beaches in India, offering a unique experience where you can drive along the sandy shores.
33. Thiruvallam Backwaters
Located near Trivandrum, these tranquil backwaters are ideal for kayaking and canoeing, with lush surroundings.
34. Ponnani
Known as the “Venice of Kerala,” Ponnani is a historical town with beautiful mosques, an estuary, and a scenic riverine landscape.
35. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Ideal for bird-watchers, this sanctuary offers the chance to see migratory birds such as Siberian storks, egrets, and herons in their natural habitat.
Final Thoughts
Kerala’s unique mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and hospitality makes it one of India’s most cherished destinations. From the tranquil backwaters to verdant hills and vibrant cultural festivals, each place in Kerala offers an immersive experience that celebrates the essence of this tropical paradise.
Latest 10 Blog Articles For You
- Travel MP: 15 Top Places to Travel to in Madhya Pradesh
- Travel Nagaland: Top 35 Tourist Destinations to Visit
- Traveling to Silchar, Assam: A Comprehensive Tourism Guide
- Best Street Food Experiences in Delhi: A Brief Travel Guide
- Top 15 Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations in India
- Top 14 Cultural festivals to experience in India throughout the year
- Food & Cuisine: Local Cuisine Experiences in Punjab
- Information: Travel tips for Solo Female Travelers in India
- Travel Goa: Top 15 Eco-Friendly Resorts in Goa
- Top 10 Budget Backpacking Routes in India