From misty hill stations and peaceful backwaters to tropical beaches, wildlife reserves and historic towns, discover some of the best places to visit in Kerala.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala is one of India’s most varied travel destinations. Within a relatively compact region, you can move from cool mountain landscapes and tea plantations to tropical beaches, tranquil backwaters, wildlife-rich forests and historic trading towns.
The best place to visit depends on the kind of experience you want. Some travellers come for Kerala’s famous houseboats and backwaters, while others prefer mountain scenery, wildlife, food, culture or quiet coastal villages.
Here are some of the destinations worth considering when planning a Kerala holiday.
1. Munnar — Tea Plantations and Mountain Landscapes
Munnar is one of Kerala’s most popular hill destinations.
Located in the Western Ghats, the region is known for rolling tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, cool temperatures and scenic viewpoints.
A visit to Munnar can include walks through tea-growing areas, visits to tea museums, waterfalls, viewpoints and opportunities to explore the surrounding mountain landscapes.
Munnar is particularly appealing if you want a break from Kerala’s tropical coastal climate and enjoy nature, photography and outdoor experiences.
Best for: Tea plantations, mountains, nature, photography and relaxed escapes.
2. Alleppey — Kerala’s Famous Backwaters
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is closely associated with Kerala’s backwaters.
The network of canals, lagoons and waterways provides a fascinating view of life along the water. One of the best-known ways to experience the region is by traditional houseboat.
A houseboat journey can range from a short cruise to an overnight stay, depending on your itinerary.
But the backwaters are about more than houseboats. Villages, coconut palms, small boats, paddy fields and everyday life along the waterways are all part of the experience.
Best for: Backwaters, houseboats, village life and slow travel.
3. Thekkady — Wildlife and Spice Country
Thekkady is the gateway to the Periyar region and one of Kerala’s best-known destinations for wildlife and nature experiences.
The surrounding forests and lake landscape provide opportunities to experience Kerala’s natural environment away from the coast.
Depending on the season and activities available, travellers can explore the area through nature walks, boating and other guided experiences.
The region is also known for its spice plantations, making it an interesting stop for travellers interested in Kerala’s agricultural heritage.
Best for: Wildlife, forests, nature and spice plantations.
4. Kochi — History, Culture and Contemporary Kerala
Kochi is often the starting point for a Kerala holiday, but it deserves time as a destination in its own right.
The historic areas of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry reflect centuries of maritime trade and cultural exchange.
You can explore old streets, heritage buildings, markets, places of worship, galleries and cafés while experiencing a more urban side of Kerala.
Kochi also works well as a transition point between Kerala’s historic heritage and its natural destinations.
Best for: History, architecture, culture, food and city experiences.
5. Kumarakom — Peaceful Backwater Escapes
Kumarakom sits on the shores of Vembanad Lake and offers a quieter alternative to some of Kerala’s busier backwater areas.
The landscape is characterised by waterways, coconut palms, villages and lush vegetation.
It is particularly suitable for travellers looking for a relaxed stay surrounded by nature.
Kumarakom can also be combined with other destinations as part of a longer Kerala itinerary.
Best for: Relaxation, backwaters, nature and slower-paced holidays.
6. Varkala — Cliffs, Beaches and Coastal Life
Varkala is one of Kerala’s most distinctive coastal destinations.
The town is known for its dramatic laterite cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, along with its beach, cafés and relaxed atmosphere.
The combination of coastline, natural scenery and local culture makes Varkala suitable for travellers who want both relaxation and exploration.
Best for: Beaches, sunsets, coastal walks and relaxed travel.
7. Wayanad — Forests, Hills and Waterfalls
Wayanad offers a very different landscape from Kerala’s coastal areas.
Located in the Western Ghats, the region is characterised by forests, hills, plantations, waterfalls and rural landscapes.
It is a good choice for travellers who enjoy nature and outdoor activities and want to explore a less urban side of Kerala.
Best for: Nature, hiking, waterfalls, forests and outdoor experiences.
8. Marari — A Quieter Beach Experience
Marari is known for its long sandy beach and relatively peaceful atmosphere.
Unlike busier coastal destinations, Marari is particularly suited to travellers who want to slow down and spend time by the sea.
It can work especially well toward the end of a Kerala itinerary after travelling through the hills and backwaters.
Best for: Relaxation, beaches, peaceful stays and couples.
Beyond Kerala’s Most Famous Destinations
Kerala also has many places that receive less international attention.
Kadamakudy, Munroe Island, Sambranikodi and Thenmala can offer different perspectives on the state, from island landscapes and village life to forests and lesser-known natural areas.
These destinations can be particularly interesting for travellers who have already visited Kerala’s classic highlights or prefer a more personalised itinerary.
How to Choose the Right Kerala Destinations
You don’t necessarily need to visit every major destination on your first trip.
A well-planned itinerary usually works better when it combines different types of experiences.
For example:
Mountains + Wildlife + Backwaters
Munnar → Thekkady → Alleppey
Culture + Mountains + Backwaters
Kochi → Munnar → Alleppey
Backwaters + Beach
Alleppey → Kumarakom → Marari
Nature + Wildlife
Wayanad → Thekkady
Culture + Beach + Backwaters
Kochi → Alleppey → Varkala
The ideal route depends on your available time, interests, travel style and preferred pace.
Plan Your Kerala Journey
Kerala is best experienced at a pace that allows you to appreciate the places between the major attractions.
Rather than trying to see everything, consider choosing a combination of landscapes and experiences that genuinely interest you.
Planning a private Kerala holiday?
Greyhound Tours creates private and tailor-made Kerala journeys based on your interests, travel dates and preferred pace.
