15 Hidden Gems You Should Explore
Kerala is famous for Munnar’s misty hills, Alleppey’s backwaters, Kovalam’s beaches and Thekkady’s wildlife. But beyond these popular destinations lies another Kerala that is quieter, greener and much less crowded.
If you are looking for the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala, you can discover mountain villages, secluded islands, forest destinations, hidden waterfalls, peaceful beaches and traditional Kerala communities that offer a completely different travel experience.
These destinations are ideal for travellers who want to move away from busy tourist circuits and spend more time experiencing nature, local culture and authentic Kerala life.
From the cool highlands of Kanthalloor to the peaceful backwaters of Munroe Island and the forests of Gavi, this guide covers some of the most beautiful and lesser-known destinations in Kerala.
Why Explore the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala?
There is much more to Kerala than its famous tourist destinations.
The Best Offbeat Places in Kerala offer something that popular tourist spots sometimes cannot: peace, space and a closer connection with nature.
Here are some reasons to include offbeat destinations in your Kerala holiday:
- Fewer tourists and quieter surroundings
- Beautiful landscapes without large crowds
- Authentic village experiences
- More opportunities for nature photography
- Local food and traditional experiences
- Scenic roads and memorable road trips
- Adventure activities such as trekking and kayaking
- Unique homestays and eco-friendly accommodation
- Better opportunities to interact with local communities
- A slower and more relaxed holiday experience
If you have already visited Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey, exploring these lesser-known destinations can make your next Kerala trip much more interesting.
15 Best Offbeat Places in Kerala
1. Kanthalloor – Kerala’s Hidden Mountain Village
Located near Munnar in the Idukki district, Kanthalloor is one of the most beautiful Best Offbeat Places in Kerala for travellers who enjoy peaceful mountain landscapes.
Unlike Munnar, Kanthalloor has a more rural atmosphere. The region is surrounded by hills, plantations, vegetable farms and fruit orchards.
The pleasant climate makes it especially attractive for travellers looking for a cool-weather getaway.
Things to do in Kanthalloor
- Visit fruit and vegetable farms
- Explore local villages
- Enjoy scenic mountain drives
- Visit viewpoints
- Experience a homestay
- Go for nature walks
- Explore nearby Marayoor
- Photograph mist-covered valleys
Best time to visit Kanthalloor
October to March is generally pleasant for sightseeing. The monsoon months are also beautiful for greenery, although travellers should be prepared for rain and slippery roads.
2. Marayoor – Sandalwood Forests and Ancient Rock Paintings
Marayoor is another fascinating destination near Munnar that receives far fewer visitors than the main Munnar tourist circuit.
The region is known for sandalwood forests, sugarcane farms, jaggery production and ancient dolmens.
Marayoor is a wonderful choice for travellers interested in nature, history and rural Kerala.
What makes Marayoor special?
One of the highlights is the traditional production of Marayoor jaggery. You can also explore scenic countryside and visit the ancient dolmens believed to date back thousands of years.
Things to do in Marayoor
- Explore sandalwood forests
- Visit Muniyara Dolmens
- Experience local jaggery production
- Explore sugarcane farms
- Visit nearby waterfalls
- Enjoy scenic drives through the Western Ghats
Marayoor can easily be combined with Kanthalloor and Munnar for a longer hill-station holiday.
3. Gavi – A Peaceful Forest Escape
Gavi in Pathanamthitta district is one of the most rewarding destinations for nature lovers.
Located inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve landscape, Gavi offers forests, lakes, viewpoints and wildlife experiences.
The journey itself is part of the attraction, with winding roads passing through dense forest.
Things to experience in Gavi
- Jeep safaris
- Nature walks
- Boating
- Trekking
- Birdwatching
- Forest viewpoints
- Camping
- Wildlife spotting
Gavi is particularly suitable for travellers who prefer forests over conventional sightseeing.
Important tip
Forest entry and activities can be regulated, so travellers should check the latest availability and entry requirements before planning their visit.
4. Vagamon – Rolling Hills Away from the Crowds
Vagamon is a beautiful hill destination in central Kerala and is a great alternative to the more commercial hill stations.
The landscape is characterised by rolling green hills, pine forests, meadows and valleys.
It is particularly popular among travellers looking for a combination of relaxation and adventure.
Things to do in Vagamon
- Paragliding
- Trekking
- Visit Vagamon Pine Forest
- Explore meadows
- Visit viewpoints
- Enjoy nature walks
- Stay at a resort or homestay
- Explore nearby waterfalls
Vagamon is one of the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala for couples, families and adventure enthusiasts.
5. Munroe Island – A Different Backwater Experience
When people think about Kerala backwaters, Alleppey is usually the first destination that comes to mind.
However, Munroe Island offers a much quieter and more intimate backwater experience.
Located near Kollam, Munroe Island is a collection of small islands surrounded by canals, lakes and waterways.
Why visit Munroe Island?
Instead of large houseboats and busy tourist areas, you can experience the backwaters through small canoe rides.
You can see narrow canals passing through villages, coconut trees lining the waterways and local life unfolding around the water.
Things to do in Munroe Island
- Canoe rides
- Sunrise kayaking
- Village walks
- Cycling
- Birdwatching
- Explore narrow canals
- Stay in a traditional homestay
- Experience local food
For travellers seeking authentic backwater experiences, Munroe Island is one of the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala.
6. Kumbalangi – Experience Kerala Village Life
Kumbalangi is located close to Kochi but feels completely different from the city.
It is known for its traditional fishing culture, Chinese fishing nets, backwaters, mangroves and village lifestyle.
Kumbalangi is particularly interesting for travellers who want cultural experiences rather than a long list of tourist attractions.
Things to experience in Kumbalangi
- Fishing experiences
- Chinese fishing nets
- Village walks
- Backwater cruises
- Traditional Kerala meals
- Mangrove experiences
- Local farming activities
- Photography
The destination is also an excellent option for travellers who have limited time and want an offbeat experience close to Kochi.
7. Nelliyampathy – The Quiet Hills of Palakkad
Nelliyampathy is a beautiful hill destination in Palakkad district surrounded by tea, coffee and cardamom plantations.
The journey to Nelliyampathy is scenic, with winding mountain roads and viewpoints overlooking the plains.
It remains considerably quieter than Kerala’s better-known hill stations.
Things to do in Nelliyampathy
- Visit plantation areas
- Enjoy mountain drives
- Explore viewpoints
- Trekking
- Nature photography
- Visit waterfalls
- Stay in plantation resorts
Nelliyampathy is an excellent choice for couples and families looking for a peaceful weekend escape.
8. Ponmudi – A Scenic Hill Escape Near Thiruvananthapuram
Ponmudi is one of the easiest offbeat hill destinations to access from Kerala’s capital.
The drive to Ponmudi takes you through winding roads, forests and mountain landscapes.
The destination is particularly attractive for travellers who want a quick escape from city life.
Top experiences in Ponmudi
- Mountain drives
- Trekking
- Viewpoints
- Forest walks
- Photography
- Picnic experiences
- Exploring nearby waterfalls
Ponmudi is ideal for a short one- or two-day trip from Thiruvananthapuram.
9. Thenmala – India’s Planned Eco-Tourism Destination
Thenmala in Kollam district is an excellent destination for travellers interested in nature and outdoor activities.
The region combines forests, reservoirs, plantations and eco-tourism attractions.
Things to do in Thenmala
- Visit Thenmala Dam
- Explore the eco-tourism zones
- Trekking
- Cycling
- Nature walks
- Adventure activities
- Photography
- Explore nearby forest areas
Thenmala can be combined with Palaruvi Waterfalls and other attractions in the Kollam region.
10. Meesapulimala – For Serious Mountain Lovers
Meesapulimala is one of Kerala’s most spectacular high-altitude trekking destinations.
Located in the Western Ghats near Munnar, it offers dramatic mountain scenery, grasslands and misty landscapes.
The destination is particularly popular among trekkers and adventure travellers.
Why trek to Meesapulimala?
The journey is not simply about reaching the summit. The trail takes you through beautiful mountain landscapes where clouds, grasslands and valleys create constantly changing scenery.
Things to remember
- Trekking arrangements may be regulated
- Weather can change quickly
- Proper trekking shoes are recommended
- Carry sufficient water
- Follow local forest regulations
- Check current trekking availability before travelling
Meesapulimala is one of the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala for travellers who want adventure rather than conventional sightseeing.
11. Silent Valley National Park – A Pristine Forest Experience
Silent Valley National Park is one of Kerala’s most important natural treasures.
Located in Palakkad district, this protected rainforest ecosystem is home to rich biodiversity.
The destination is better suited to nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and photographers than travellers looking for commercial tourist attractions.
What to experience
- Dense rainforest
- Wildlife
- Birdwatching
- Mountain views
- Guided nature experiences
- Photography
Because it is a protected ecosystem, visitors need to follow entry rules and restrictions.
12. Valiyaparamba – Kerala’s Peaceful Backwater Islands
Valiyaparamba in Kasaragod is one of the lesser-known backwater destinations in Kerala.
The region is surrounded by waterways and small islands, creating a peaceful landscape that is very different from the busy tourist areas of central Kerala.
Things to do in Valiyaparamba
- Backwater cruises
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Village exploration
- Photography
- Birdwatching
- Relax at a waterfront stay
If you want to explore northern Kerala beyond the usual tourist circuit, Valiyaparamba deserves a place on your itinerary.
13. Paithalmala – A Hidden Trekking Destination
Located in Kannur district, Paithalmala is a beautiful hill destination near the Karnataka border.
It is known for its green mountain slopes, forests and trekking trails.
The destination is particularly attractive during the cooler months.
Things to do in Paithalmala
- Trekking
- Camping
- Nature photography
- Birdwatching
- Explore mountain viewpoints
- Enjoy sunrise and sunset
Paithalmala is a good option for travellers who want an outdoor adventure in northern Kerala.
14. Valiyavazhi and the Rural Backroads of Wayanad
Wayanad is no longer a completely hidden destination, but several of its rural areas remain wonderfully peaceful.
Instead of restricting your trip to popular attractions, explore plantation roads, village landscapes and lesser-known viewpoints with a local guide.
Things to experience
- Plantation walks
- Village experiences
- Local food
- Nature photography
- Short hikes
- Waterfalls
- Homestays
The best way to experience this side of Wayanad is to slow down rather than trying to cover every attraction in a single day.
15. Kappimala – A Quiet Mountain Destination in Kannur
Kappimala is a lesser-known hill destination in Kannur district surrounded by greenery and mountain landscapes.
The area is suitable for travellers who prefer quiet roads, village scenery and nature rather than commercial tourist attractions.
Why visit Kappimala?
- Peaceful surroundings
- Scenic mountain roads
- Green landscapes
- Plantation areas
- Photography opportunities
- Village experiences
It is particularly suitable for travellers exploring northern Kerala by road.
Best Offbeat Places in Kerala for Different Types of Travellers
Not every offbeat destination is suitable for every traveller. Your choice should depend on the type of experience you want.
Best for Couples
- Kanthalloor
- Vagamon
- Munroe Island
- Nelliyampathy
- Ponmudi
Best for Adventure Lovers
- Meesapulimala
- Vagamon
- Gavi
- Paithalmala
- Ponmudi
Best for Nature Lovers
- Gavi
- Silent Valley
- Kanthalloor
- Thenmala
- Meesapulimala
Best for Backwater Experiences
- Munroe Island
- Valiyaparamba
- Kumbalangi
Best for Village Experiences
- Kumbalangi
- Munroe Island
- Kanthalloor
- Marayoor
Best for a Weekend Trip
- Vagamon
- Ponmudi
- Nelliyampathy
- Kumbalangi
- Thenmala
Best Time to Visit the Offbeat Places in Kerala
Kerala can be visited throughout the year, but the ideal season depends on the destination and activities you have planned.
October to February
This is generally the most comfortable period for exploring Kerala.
The weather is pleasant for:
- Hill station trips
- Trekking
- Road trips
- Wildlife experiences
- Village exploration
- Outdoor sightseeing
This is also a popular travel season, so accommodation should be booked in advance for weekends and holidays.
March to May
Summer can be warm in the plains, but high-altitude destinations such as Kanthalloor, Vagamon and Nelliyampathy can still provide relatively pleasant weather.
Early morning and evening are usually better for outdoor activities.
June to September
The monsoon transforms Kerala into a lush green landscape.
Waterfalls become more impressive, forests become greener and the countryside looks spectacular.
However, heavy rain can affect trekking, road travel and outdoor activities. Always check local weather and travel conditions before heading into forest or mountain areas.
How to Reach the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala
Kerala has three major international airports and several railway stations, making most regions accessible.
By Air
Major airports include:
- Cochin International Airport
- Trivandrum International Airport
- Calicut International Airport
- Kannur International Airport
Your nearest airport will depend on your destination.
For example, Trivandrum is convenient for Ponmudi, while Kochi is useful for destinations in central Kerala.
By Train
Kerala has an extensive railway network connecting major cities and towns.
For offbeat destinations, you may need to combine a train journey with a taxi or local bus.
By Road
Road travel is often the best way to explore offbeat Kerala.
A private car or taxi gives you the flexibility to stop at viewpoints, villages, waterfalls and local restaurants along the way.
For destinations such as Kanthalloor, Marayoor, Nelliyampathy and Paithalmala, the road journey itself can be one of the highlights.
Where to Stay in Offbeat Kerala
Accommodation in lesser-known destinations is often more personal than in major tourist cities.
Depending on the destination, you can choose from:
Homestays
Homestays are excellent for experiencing local culture and traditional food.
Plantation Resorts
Destinations such as Kanthalloor and Nelliyampathy have plantation-style stays surrounded by greenery.
Eco-Friendly Resorts
Forest and eco-tourism destinations often have nature-oriented accommodation.
Camps and Tented Stays
Adventure destinations such as Gavi and Meesapulimala may offer camping or tented experiences through authorised operators, depending on availability.
Boutique Resorts
Couples looking for privacy can choose small boutique resorts in hill and backwater destinations.
What to Eat During an Offbeat Kerala Trip
One of the best parts of exploring lesser-known Kerala destinations is trying local food.
Depending on the region, look for:
- Kerala parotta and curry
- Appam and stew
- Puttu and kadala curry
- Kerala-style fish curry
- Karimeen preparations
- Kappa and fish curry
- Pathiri
- Malabar biryani
- Banana chips
- Payasam
- Traditional Kerala sadya
Food can vary significantly between northern, central and southern Kerala, so try local specialities instead of relying only on hotel restaurants.
Tips for Exploring the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala
Offbeat travel requires slightly more planning than a conventional Kerala holiday.
1. Check road conditions
Mountain roads can be affected by heavy rain, landslides or maintenance.
2. Book forest activities in advance
Destinations such as Gavi and Silent Valley operate under forest and eco-tourism regulations.
3. Carry cash
Some remote areas may have limited access to ATMs and digital payment facilities.
4. Do not depend entirely on mobile connectivity
Network coverage can be weak in forests and remote mountain areas.
5. Respect local communities
Avoid disturbing villagers, taking photographs without permission or entering private property.
6. Avoid single-use plastic
Carry reusable bottles and bags, particularly when travelling to forest and hill destinations.
7. Hire local guides when necessary
A knowledgeable local guide can make trekking, wildlife and village experiences much safer and more informative.
8. Keep your itinerary flexible
Offbeat destinations are best enjoyed slowly. Avoid packing too many places into one day.
Suggested Offbeat Kerala Itineraries
3 Days – Kanthalloor and Marayoor
Day 1: Munnar – Kanthalloor
Day 2: Kanthalloor – Marayoor sightseeing
Day 3: Marayoor – Munnar departure
This route is ideal for travellers who want mountains, farms and rural experiences.
4 Days – Gavi and Thekkady
Day 1: Arrive Thekkady
Day 2: Gavi forest experience
Day 3: Thekkady sightseeing
Day 4: Departure
This combination works well for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
4 Days – Munroe Island and Varkala
Day 1: Kollam – Munroe Island
Day 2: Munroe Island backwater experience
Day 3: Munroe Island – Varkala
Day 4: Varkala – departure
This itinerary combines peaceful backwaters with a coastal experience.
5 Days – Vagamon and Thekkady
Day 1: Arrival – Vagamon
Day 2: Vagamon sightseeing and adventure activities
Day 3: Vagamon – Thekkady
Day 4: Thekkady and Gavi experience
Day 5: Departure
This is a good option for travellers who want a mixture of hills, forests and adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala
What are the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala?
Some of the best offbeat destinations include Kanthalloor, Marayoor, Gavi, Vagamon, Munroe Island, Kumbalangi, Nelliyampathy, Ponmudi, Thenmala, Meesapulimala, Silent Valley, Valiyaparamba and Paithalmala.
The right destination depends on whether you prefer mountains, forests, backwaters, villages or adventure activities.
Which is the most peaceful offbeat destination in Kerala?
Munroe Island, Kanthalloor, Valiyaparamba and Nelliyampathy are excellent choices for travellers looking for peaceful surroundings.
Which offbeat place in Kerala is best for couples?
Kanthalloor, Vagamon, Munroe Island and Nelliyampathy are particularly suitable for couples looking for privacy, scenic surroundings and relaxed experiences.
Which are the Best Offbeat Places in Kerala for adventure?
Meesapulimala, Vagamon, Gavi, Paithalmala and Ponmudi are good choices for adventure enthusiasts.
Activities can include trekking, camping, paragliding, boating and nature walks depending on the destination.
Which offbeat destination is best for families?
Kanthalloor, Vagamon, Nelliyampathy and Thenmala can work well for families because they offer scenic attractions without requiring extremely demanding trekking.
Is Gavi suitable for a family trip?
Yes, Gavi can be suitable for families interested in forests and wildlife. However, some activities may not be suitable for very young children, and forest-entry rules should be checked before travelling.
Is Munroe Island better than Alleppey for a quiet backwater holiday?
If your priority is peace and a more intimate village experience, Munroe Island can be an excellent alternative to the busier parts of Alleppey.
Alleppey offers a larger choice of houseboats and accommodation, while Munroe Island is better suited to canoe rides, village exploration and quieter backwaters.
How many days are enough to explore offbeat Kerala?
A minimum of 4 to 5 days is recommended if you want to explore two or three offbeat destinations without rushing.
For a more comprehensive experience covering mountains, forests and backwaters, 7 to 10 days would be more comfortable.
Are these destinations safe for solo travellers?
Many of these destinations can be visited safely by solo travellers, but remote forests and trekking areas require additional preparation.
For forest treks, wildlife activities and difficult trails, use authorised guides or operators and follow local regulations.
Can I visit offbeat Kerala during the monsoon?
Yes. Monsoon is one of the most beautiful times to see Kerala’s greenery and waterfalls.
However, heavy rainfall can affect road travel, trekking and outdoor activities. Check weather conditions before travelling and avoid risky trails during severe weather.
Which is the best offbeat hill station in Kerala?
Kanthalloor, Vagamon and Nelliyampathy are among the strongest choices for travellers looking for quieter alternatives to Munnar.
Which offbeat destination is closest to Kochi?
Kumbalangi is one of the easiest offbeat experiences to include from Kochi. It is particularly suitable for travellers who want village and backwater experiences without travelling far from the city.
Which offbeat destination is best for a road trip?
Kanthalloor, Marayoor, Nelliyampathy, Ponmudi and Paithalmala are excellent road-trip choices because the routes feature scenic mountain roads and viewpoints.
Do offbeat places in Kerala have good mobile connectivity?
Connectivity varies significantly.
Popular towns generally have reasonable coverage, but forests and remote mountain areas can have weak or no signal. It is advisable to download maps and important travel information before leaving the main towns.
Final Thoughts
The real charm of Kerala begins when you move beyond the usual tourist itinerary.
The Best Offbeat Places in Kerala allow you to experience a quieter side of the state — mist-covered mountains, forest trails, peaceful islands, plantation villages, traditional communities and landscapes that are often missed on conventional Kerala tours.
Whether you choose the cool hills of Kanthalloor, the forests of Gavi, the backwaters of Munroe Island, the rolling landscapes of Vagamon or the remote hills of Paithalmala, each destination offers a different story.
Instead of trying to see everything in a few days, choose two or three destinations that match your interests and spend enough time experiencing them.
That is the real beauty of offbeat Kerala: less rushing, fewer crowds and more meaningful travel experiences.
If you are planning a Kerala holiday and want an itinerary that combines famous attractions with lesser-known destinations, a customised route can help you experience both sides of Kerala without spending your entire trip on the road.
Quick Summary: Best Offbeat Places in Kerala
| Destination | Best For | Recommended Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Kanthalloor | Mountains and village experiences | 2 Nights |
| Marayoor | Nature and history | 1–2 Nights |
| Gavi | Wildlife and forests | 1–2 Nights |
| Vagamon | Adventure and relaxation | 2 Nights |
| Munroe Island | Backwaters and village life | 1–2 Nights |
| Kumbalangi | Culture and village experiences | 1 Night |
| Nelliyampathy | Hills and plantations | 2 Nights |
| Ponmudi | Short hill getaway | 1–2 Nights |
| Thenmala | Eco-tourism and adventure | 1–2 Nights |
| Meesapulimala | Trekking | 1–2 Nights |
| Silent Valley | Rainforest and wildlife | 1–2 Nights |
| Valiyaparamba | Peaceful backwaters | 1–2 Nights |
| Paithalmala | Trekking and nature | 1–2 Nights |
| Wayanad countryside | Plantations and villages | 2–3 Nights |
| Kappimala | Mountains and rural Kerala | 1–2 Nights |
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