Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala is one of those rare destinations where mountains, misty tea plantations, peaceful backwaters, tropical beaches, wildlife sanctuaries and historic towns all come together in one beautiful journey. Often called God’s Own Country, Kerala offers something for almost every kind of traveller — from honeymoon couples and families to adventure seekers, photographers and solo travellers.
If you are planning your first Kerala trip, choosing the right destinations can be confusing. Should you spend more time in Munnar, explore the beaches of Varkala, experience a houseboat in Alleppey, or head into the forests of Thekkady?
To make your planning easier, here is a detailed guide to the Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala, including the major attractions, things to do, nightlife, ideal duration, best time to visit and practical travel tips.
If you are searching for the Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala, this guide will help you discover the destinations that should be on your Kerala travel list. From the misty hills of Munnar and the wildlife of Thekkady to the peaceful backwaters of Alleppey and the dramatic cliffs of Varkala, these destinations showcase the incredible diversity of Kerala tourism.
Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala at a Glance
Why These Are the Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala
The Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala featured in this guide have been selected because they offer different experiences rather than simply being popular tourist spots. You can experience mountains in Munnar, wildlife in Thekkady and Wayanad, backwaters in Alleppey and Kumarakom, beaches in Varkala and Kovalam, and culture and history in Kochi and Thrissur.
This makes Kerala particularly attractive for travellers who want to combine several types of experiences during one holiday.
| Rank | Destination | Best Known For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Munnar | Tea plantations, mountains and waterfalls |
| 2 | Alleppey | Backwaters and houseboats |
| 3 | Thekkady | Wildlife, forests and adventure |
| 4 | Varkala | Cliffs, beaches and sunset views |
| 5 | Kovalam | Beaches and resorts |
| 6 | Kochi | History, culture and food |
| 7 | Kumarakom | Backwaters and luxury resorts |
| 8 | Wayanad | Hills, waterfalls and wildlife |
| 9 | Vagamon | Meadows, valleys and paragliding |
| 10 | Bekal | Fort and beaches |
| 11 | Athirappilly | Waterfalls and rainforest |
| 12 | Poovar | Golden beach, backwaters and boating |
| 13 | Kannur | Beaches, forts and Theyyam |
| 14 | Kozhikode | Food, beaches and history |
| 15 | Thrissur | Culture and festivals |
| 16 | Idukki | Dams, hills and nature |
| 17 | Marari | Peaceful beach experience |
| 18 | Ponmudi | Hills, hairpin roads and trekking |
| 19 | Ashtamudi | Backwaters and village life |
| 20 | Kuttanad | Paddy fields and rural Kerala |
1. Munnar – The Queen of Kerala’s Hill Stations
Munnar is usually the first destination that comes to mind when travellers search for the Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala. Its tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, waterfalls and cool climate make it one of the most popular destinations in Kerala.
The drive to Munnar itself is part of the experience. As you climb into the hills, the landscape gradually changes from tropical greenery to tea-covered slopes.
Best Places to Visit in Munnar
- Eravikulam National Park
- Mattupetty Dam
- Echo Point
- Kundala Lake
- Top Station
- Tea Museum
- Attukad Waterfalls
- Pothamedu View Point
- Chinnakanal Waterfalls
Things to Do in Munnar
You can go sightseeing through tea plantations, enjoy boating, visit waterfalls, explore wildlife areas and take scenic mountain drives. Adventure lovers can also look for trekking and off-road experiences in suitable areas.
Nightlife in Munnar
Munnar is not a party destination. Its nightlife is mainly about peaceful resort evenings, campfires, mountain views and enjoying the cool weather.
How Many Days for Munnar?
2–3 nights is ideal for a first visit.
2. Alleppey – Kerala’s Backwater Paradise
Alleppey, officially known as Alappuzha, is famous worldwide for its extensive network of backwaters and traditional houseboats.
For travellers exploring the Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala, Alleppey is almost impossible to leave off the itinerary. Its famous backwaters and traditional houseboats provide one of the most memorable experiences in Kerala..
Best Things to Do in Alleppey
- Stay overnight on a houseboat
- Enjoy a backwater cruise
- Explore Kuttanad
- Visit Alappuzha Beach
- Watch sunset near the beach
- Experience village life
- Try traditional Kerala cuisine
Nightlife in Alleppey
Nightlife is relaxed rather than energetic. Houseboat evenings, resort dining and quiet waterfront experiences are the main attractions after sunset.
How Many Days for Alleppey?
1–2 nights is generally sufficient.
3. Thekkady – Wildlife, Forests and Adventure
Thekkady is the ideal destination for travellers who want to combine nature and adventure. The region is centred around the Periyar landscape and is surrounded by dense forests and spice plantations.
Top Attractions in Thekkady
- Periyar Tiger Reserve
- Periyar Lake
- Spice plantations
- Bamboo rafting
- Nature walks
- Border hiking
- Elephant-related experiences
- Gavi
Adventure Activities in Thekkady
Depending on availability and regulations, travellers can explore activities such as trekking, bamboo rafting, boating, nature walks and forest experiences.
Nightlife in Thekkady
Thekkady is quiet at night. Cultural performances, traditional Kerala shows, resort dining and campfire-style evenings are popular alternatives to nightlife.
How Many Days for Thekkady?
1–2 nights works well for most travellers.
4. Varkala – Kerala’s Dramatic Cliff Beach
Varkala is one of Kerala’s most distinctive coastal destinations. Its dramatic laterite cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea create a landscape that feels very different from the state’s other beach destinations.
Best Places to Visit in Varkala
- Varkala Cliff
- Papanasam Beach
- Janardhana Swamy Temple
- Black Sand Beach
- Kappil Beach
- Kappil Lake
- Sivagiri Mutt
Things to Do in Varkala
- Watch sunset from the cliff
- Relax at Papanasam Beach
- Explore cliffside cafés
- Try surfing
- Enjoy yoga and wellness experiences
- Take a trip to Kappil
- Shop for souvenirs
Nightlife in Varkala
Varkala has one of the more active evening scenes in Kerala. The cliff area has restaurants, cafés, music and relaxed social spaces. It is still considerably quieter than a major international party destination.
How Many Days for Varkala?
2 nights is ideal.
5. Kovalam – Kerala’s Classic Beach Destination
Kovalam has been one of Kerala’s best-known beach destinations for decades. Its curved coastline, palm trees, resorts and Ayurvedic wellness centres make it particularly popular with couples and international visitors.
Best Places to Visit in Kovalam
- Lighthouse Beach
- Hawa Beach
- Samudra Beach
- Vizhinjam
- Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
- Kovalam Lighthouse
Things to Do
- Beach relaxation
- Ayurvedic treatments
- Swimming where conditions permit
- Seafood dining
- Sunset photography
- Beachside shopping
Nightlife in Kovalam
Kovalam’s nightlife is generally laid-back. Beach resorts and restaurants offer evening entertainment, dining and live music on selected days.
How Many Days for Kovalam?
2 nights is a comfortable stay.
6. Kochi – Kerala’s Historic Gateway
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is one of Kerala’s most culturally diverse cities. Its history reflects centuries of maritime trade and influences from different communities and countries.
Must-Visit Places in Kochi
- Fort Kochi
- Chinese fishing nets
- Mattancherry Palace
- Jew Town
- Paradesi Synagogue
- St. Francis Church
- Marine Drive
- Kerala Folklore Museum
Things to Do
Explore Fort Kochi on foot, photograph the fishing nets, discover heritage buildings, shop for handicrafts and enjoy Kerala cuisine.
Nightlife in Kochi
Kochi has one of the liveliest urban evening scenes in Kerala. You will find cafés, restaurants, lounges, rooftop dining and live-music venues, particularly around central Kochi and Fort Kochi.
How Many Days for Kochi?
1–2 nights is enough for the major attractions.
7. Kumarakom – A Peaceful Backwater Escape
Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a more tranquil alternative to busy tourist areas.
It is particularly attractive for honeymooners, families and travellers looking for a premium resort experience.
Best Places to Visit
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Vembanad Lake
- Kumarakom backwaters
- Village areas
- Traditional Kerala resorts
Things to Do
- Backwater cruises
- Bird watching
- Canoeing
- Fishing experiences
- Resort relaxation
- Sunset cruises
Nightlife in Kumarakom
Kumarakom is about peaceful evenings rather than nightlife. Luxury resorts often offer candlelight dinners, cultural programmes and relaxing waterfront experiences.
Ideal Stay
1–2 nights.
8. Wayanad – Kerala’s Green Mountain Escape
Wayanad is a beautiful hill district known for forests, plantations, waterfalls, caves and wildlife.
Top Attractions in Wayanad
- Edakkal Caves
- Banasura Sagar Dam
- Soochipara Waterfalls
- Kuruva Island
- Chembra Peak
- Pookode Lake
- Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
Things to Do
Trekking, hiking, wildlife viewing, boating, plantation visits and waterfall trips are among the most popular experiences.
Nightlife in Wayanad
Wayanad is peaceful after dark. Resort dinners, bonfires and stargazing are more common than conventional nightlife.
Ideal Stay
2–3 nights.
9. Vagamon – A Quiet Hill Station for Adventure Lovers
Vagamon is one of Kerala’s lesser-known hill destinations and is ideal for travellers looking for open landscapes and a quieter mountain experience.
Places to Visit
- Vagamon Meadows
- Pine Forest
- Vagamon Lake
- Thangal Para
- Murugan Mala
- Kurisumala
Adventure Activities
Vagamon is known for paragliding and offers opportunities for trekking, camping and other outdoor activities depending on seasonal conditions.
Nightlife
There is virtually no conventional nightlife. The attraction is enjoying nature, campfires and peaceful evenings.
Ideal Stay
1–2 nights.
10. Bekal – Fort, Beaches and Northern Kerala
Bekal in northern Kerala is best known for its spectacular seaside fort. The fort’s location beside the Arabian Sea makes it particularly attractive to photographers.
Top Attractions
- Bekal Fort
- Bekal Beach
- Bekal Hole Aqua Park
- Chandragiri Fort
- Kappil Beach
Things to Do
Explore the fort, watch sunset, relax on the beach and discover northern Kerala’s culture.
Nightlife
Bekal is primarily a resort destination. Evening activities are generally centred around hotels and resorts.
Ideal Stay
1–2 nights.
11. Athirappilly – Kerala’s Most Famous Waterfall
Athirappilly is one of Kerala’s most spectacular natural attractions. The waterfall plunges through a lush forest landscape and becomes particularly dramatic during the monsoon.
Nearby Attractions
- Athirappilly Waterfalls
- Vazhachal Waterfalls
- Charpa Falls
- Sholayar region
- Rainforest landscapes
Things to Do
Enjoy viewpoints, photography, nature walks and scenic drives through the surrounding forests.
Nightlife
Athirappilly has almost no conventional nightlife. Visitors generally return to their resort after sightseeing.
Ideal Stay
1 night can be sufficient, although nature lovers may prefer longer.
12. Poovar – Where River, Lake and Sea Meet
Poovar is a beautiful coastal destination near Thiruvananthapuram. Its unique combination of backwaters, mangroves, river and sea makes it different from conventional beach destinations.
Things to Do in Poovar
- Backwater boating
- Mangrove exploration
- Golden Beach
- Sunset cruises
- Resort experiences
- Village sightseeing
Nightlife
Poovar is ideal for couples looking for peaceful resort evenings, romantic dinners and sunset experiences.
Ideal Stay
1–2 nights.
13. Kannur – Beaches, Forts and Theyyam
Kannur offers a fascinating combination of beaches, colonial history and traditional culture.
Best Places to Visit
- Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach
- St. Angelo Fort
- Payyambalam Beach
- Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
- Theyyam performance venues
What Makes Kannur Special?
Theyyam is one of the region’s most distinctive traditional art forms. If your visit coincides with the season, witnessing a genuine Theyyam performance can become one of the highlights of your Kerala trip.
Nightlife
Kannur is not known for nightlife. Evenings are generally quiet and family-oriented.
Ideal Stay
2 nights.
14. Kozhikode – Food, Beaches and History
Kozhikode, historically known as Calicut, has played an important role in Kerala’s maritime history. Today, it is equally famous for its food.
Must-Visit Places
- Kozhikode Beach
- Beypore
- Kadalundi
- Mananchira Square
- Mishkal Mosque
- Local markets
Must-Try Food
Kozhikode is particularly famous for Malabar cuisine. Travellers should try local biryanis, seafood, snacks and traditional sweets.
Nightlife
Kozhikode has a modest urban evening scene with restaurants, cafés and shopping areas rather than a major clubbing culture.
Ideal Stay
1–2 nights.
15. Thrissur – Kerala’s Cultural Capital
Thrissur is often associated with Kerala’s vibrant cultural traditions. The city is particularly famous for Thrissur Pooram, one of Kerala’s most celebrated festivals.
Places to Visit
- Vadakkunnathan Temple
- Thrissur Zoo
- Kerala Kalamandalam
- Shakthan Thampuran Palace
- Athirappilly region
Things to Do
Explore temples and museums, experience Kerala’s performing arts and explore nearby natural attractions.
Nightlife
Thrissur is generally quiet at night, with restaurants and cafés providing most evening entertainment.
Ideal Stay
1–2 nights.
16. Idukki – Mountains, Dams and Untouched Nature
Idukki is one of Kerala’s most naturally beautiful districts. Much of the region consists of mountains, forests and reservoirs.
Attractions
- Idukki Dam
- Hill viewpoints
- Forest areas
- Reservoirs
- Nearby wildlife destinations
- Spice plantations
Idukki is particularly suitable for travellers who enjoy scenic drives and nature rather than conventional tourist attractions.
17. Marari – A Peaceful Beach Escape
If Varkala and Kovalam feel too busy, Marari can be a better choice. The beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional coastal surroundings.
Things to Do
- Relax on the beach
- Cycle through villages
- Enjoy Ayurvedic treatments
- Try seafood
- Watch sunrise and sunset
- Stay at a beach resort
Nightlife
Marari is deliberately quiet. It is perfect for travellers who prefer a romantic dinner and the sound of the sea over loud music.
Ideal Stay
1–2 nights.
18. Ponmudi – A Scenic Mountain Retreat
Ponmudi is a hill station located relatively close to Thiruvananthapuram. The winding mountain road, forests and viewpoints make the journey as interesting as the destination.
Things to Do
- Mountain drives
- Photography
- Short hikes
- Viewpoint visits
- Nature walks
Ponmudi is best suited to travellers who want a short escape into the hills.
19. Ashtamudi – Kerala’s Scenic Backwater Region
Ashtamudi Lake near Kollam is another excellent destination for experiencing Kerala’s backwaters. Compared with some of the more famous tourist centres, it can feel more relaxed and less commercial.
Things to Do
- Backwater cruises
- Village visits
- Canoeing
- Houseboat stays
- Bird watching
- Sunset cruises
Ideal Stay
1–2 nights.
20. Kuttanad – The Rice Bowl of Kerala
Kuttanad is famous for its extensive paddy fields and waterways. Travelling through this region gives visitors an opportunity to see rural Kerala away from conventional tourist attractions.
What to Experience
- Paddy fields
- Village life
- Canoe rides
- Backwater cruises
- Local food
- Traditional farming landscapes
Kuttanad is particularly enjoyable as part of an Alleppey or Kumarakom itinerary.
Best Places in Kerala Based on Your Travel Style
Not every Kerala destination suits every traveller. Here is a quick guide:
Best for Honeymoon Couples
- Munnar
- Alleppey
- Kumarakom
- Varkala
- Kovalam
- Poovar
- Marari
Best for Families
- Munnar
- Thekkady
- Alleppey
- Kumarakom
- Wayanad
- Kovalam
Best for Adventure
- Thekkady
- Wayanad
- Vagamon
- Munnar
- Varkala
- Ponmudi
Best for Beaches
- Varkala
- Kovalam
- Marari
- Bekal
- Kannur
- Poovar
Best for Wildlife
- Thekkady
- Wayanad
- Idukki
- Kannur
Best for Backwaters
- Alleppey
- Kumarakom
- Ashtamudi
- Kuttanad
- Poovar
Best for Nightlife
If nightlife is an important part of your holiday, Kochi and Varkala are among the better choices in Kerala. Kovalam also offers evening entertainment through resorts and restaurants.
Kerala Nightlife: What to Expect
Kerala is not primarily a party destination like Goa. However, that does not mean there is nothing to do after sunset.
Nightlife varies considerably from one destination to another.
Kochi
Kochi offers the widest variety of evening experiences, including restaurants, cafés, rooftop dining, lounges and live music.
Varkala
Varkala Cliff becomes lively in the evening, with cafés, restaurants, music and travellers gathering around the cliff area.
Kovalam
Resorts and restaurants provide relaxed evening entertainment, especially during the tourist season.
Munnar
Expect quiet resort evenings, campfires and mountain views rather than clubs.
Thekkady
Cultural shows, traditional performances and resort activities are more common than nightlife.
Alleppey and Kumarakom
The experience is mainly about peaceful backwater evenings, houseboats, resort dining and sunset views.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Kerala can be visited throughout the year, but the experience changes according to the season.
October to February – Peak Travel Season
This is generally one of the most popular periods for Kerala tourism.
The weather is comparatively pleasant, making it suitable for sightseeing, beaches, hill stations and backwater holidays.
March to May – Summer
The plains and coastal areas can become hot and humid. Hill stations such as Munnar, Wayanad and Vagamon can be more comfortable.
June to September – Monsoon
Kerala’s monsoon transforms the landscape into vibrant shades of green.
This is a particularly attractive season for travellers interested in lush scenery, Ayurveda, waterfalls and off-season travel. However, outdoor activities and road journeys can be affected by heavy rain, so itineraries should be planned with flexibility.
How Many Days Do You Need for Kerala?
The answer depends on how much of Kerala you want to experience.
3 Nights / 4 Days
A short trip could include:
Munnar + Alleppey
4 Nights / 5 Days
A popular combination is:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey
5 Nights / 6 Days
A balanced itinerary could be:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey/Kumarakom + Kovalam
6 Nights / 7 Days
You can comfortably explore:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey/Kumarakom + Kovalam
7 Nights / 8 Days
For a more comprehensive holiday:
Kochi + Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey/Kumarakom + Kovalam
8 Nights / 9 Days or More
You can add destinations such as:
Varkala, Poovar, Kanyakumari, Wayanad or Bekal, depending on your arrival and departure airports.
How to Reach Kerala
By Air
Kerala has four major airports:
- Cochin International Airport
- Trivandrum International Airport
- Calicut International Airport
- Kannur International Airport
Your choice of airport should depend on the itinerary.
For example, Cochin Airport is convenient for Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey, while Trivandrum Airport works well for Kovalam, Varkala and Poovar.
By Train
Kerala has an extensive railway network connecting major cities and towns with other parts of India.
By Road
Road travel is one of the best ways to experience Kerala, especially when travelling between hill stations, backwaters and coastal destinations.
Kerala Food You Should Try
A Kerala holiday is incomplete without experiencing the local cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes
- Kerala Sadya
- Appam with stew
- Puttu and kadala curry
- Kerala parotta
- Fish curry
- Karimeen preparations
- Malabar biryani
- Banana chips
- Pazham pori
- Kerala-style seafood
Food varies significantly between regions, so trying local dishes in different parts of Kerala can become part of the travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala
What are the Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala?
The Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Kerala include Munnar, Alleppey, Thekkady, Varkala, Kovalam, Kochi, Kumarakom, Wayanad, Vagamon, Bekal, Athirappilly, Poovar, Kannur, Kozhikode, Thrissur, Idukki, Marari, Ponmudi, Ashtamudi and Kuttanad.
Which is the No. 1 tourist place in Kerala?
Munnar is often considered one of Kerala’s most popular tourist destinations because of its tea plantations, mountains, waterfalls, viewpoints and pleasant climate.
Which place is best for a honeymoon in Kerala?
Munnar, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Varkala, Kovalam, Poovar and Marari are excellent choices for honeymooners.
Which is better, Munnar or Wayanad?
Both are excellent, but they offer different experiences. Munnar is particularly famous for tea plantations and mountain scenery, while Wayanad offers forests, waterfalls, caves, wildlife and adventure.
Is Alleppey or Kumarakom better?
Choose Alleppey if you want the classic houseboat experience and extensive backwater scenery. Choose Kumarakom if you prefer a quieter, more resort-oriented holiday.
Which place in Kerala has the best nightlife?
Kochi generally offers the widest variety of evening entertainment. Varkala also has a lively tourist-oriented evening atmosphere around the cliff area.
Is Kerala good for family holidays?
Yes. Kerala is well suited to family holidays because it combines nature, wildlife, beaches, backwaters and cultural attractions.
Which is the best beach destination in Kerala?
Varkala, Kovalam, Marari, Bekal and Kannur are among the best beach destinations, with each offering a different experience.
Which place is best for adventure activities in Kerala?
Thekkady, Wayanad, Vagamon, Munnar and Varkala are good choices for travellers interested in trekking, rafting, paragliding, surfing and other outdoor experiences.
Which Kerala destination is best during monsoon?
Munnar, Wayanad, Thekkady and Athirappilly are particularly beautiful during the rainy season, although weather conditions should always be considered when planning outdoor activities.
How many days are enough for Kerala?
For a first trip, 5–7 days is a good starting point. A 7–10 day itinerary allows you to combine hill stations, wildlife, backwaters and beaches without rushing too much.
Is Kerala expensive for tourists?
Kerala can suit different budgets. Budget travellers can choose homestays and local transport, while families and couples can opt for comfortable resorts, private vehicles and premium houseboats.
Is Kerala safe for families?
Kerala is a popular family tourism destination. As with any trip, travellers should follow normal precautions, especially around beaches, water activities, wildlife areas and during heavy monsoon conditions.
What should I pack for Kerala?
Pack lightweight cotton clothes, comfortable footwear, sunscreen, sunglasses and mosquito protection. For hill stations, carry a light jacket. During monsoon, a raincoat or umbrella is useful.
Can I cover all 20 places in one trip?
It is technically possible to visit many of them over an extended trip, but trying to cover all 20 destinations in a short holiday is not recommended. You will spend too much time travelling.
Instead, select destinations based on your interests.
Final Thoughts: Which Kerala Places Should You Choose?
The beauty of Kerala is that there is no single “best” destination.
If you love mountains, choose Munnar.
If you want wildlife and adventure, choose Thekkady or Wayanad.
If you dream of a houseboat, choose Alleppey.
If you want luxury and peaceful backwaters, choose Kumarakom.
If beaches and sunsets are your priority, consider Varkala, Kovalam, Marari or Bekal.
If you enjoy history, culture and food, explore Kochi, Kozhikode and Thrissur.
And if you want something quieter and less crowded, look at Vagamon, Poovar, Ponmudi, Ashtamudi or Kuttanad.
The best Kerala itinerary is not necessarily the one that includes the maximum number of destinations. It is the one that gives you enough time to slow down, explore and actually enjoy each place.
For a first-time visitor, a combination of Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey/Kumarakom + Varkala or Kovalam gives a wonderful introduction to Kerala’s mountains, wildlife, backwaters and beaches.
Plan Your Kerala Holiday
Whether you are planning a family vacation, honeymoon, group tour or a relaxed Kerala getaway, choosing the right route can make a major difference to your experience.
Instead of rushing through too many destinations, build your itinerary around the experiences you enjoy most — misty mountains, wildlife, backwaters, beaches, food, culture or adventure.
Kerala is not just a destination to visit. It is a place to experience at your own pace.