Did you know the literal meaning of the name Kerala is Land of Coconuts? Or it is not only the most literate state in India but also the cleanest one! Yes, these are some facts you probably did not know.
But you know what, it is not just you. Most tourists who visit this state do not even know which places to keep on their itinerary when they visit for the first time. But you don’t need to worry because this article lists the 12 Best Places to Visit in Kerala. We have covered everything from places to visit with your newly married partner to the most well-known tourist places. So let us not delay you any further and provide you insight so that you can plan your next vacation to no other place in India but Kerala.
The 12 Best Places to visit in Kerala
Check out the top places in Kerala that you should definitely keep on your bucket list.
1. Alleppey
Kerala is called ‘ God’s Own Country for a reason. Alleppey is currently topping the list of the romantic places to visit in Kerala for a honeymoon. From the serene backwaters to spectacular views with lush greenery covering most of the region, it’s a perfect place to spend some time with your better half in the lap of nature.
You can spend a day or two in the houseboats with provisions for overnight stays. There are also multiple Ayurvedic resorts available in Alleppey if you want some rejuvenation.
For a bonus, try visiting Alleppey during August and September to witness the amazing snake boat races.
2. Munnar
Wanted to visit Kashmir but couldn’t manage due to time constraints? Do not worry! Make a short trip to Kashmir in South India. Yes, we are talking about the amazingly beautiful place of Kerala, Munnar. Munnar Kerala tourist places rank number one in the list when it comes to popularity. Not just in India, but Munnar is among the most visited tourist destinations in the world.
The natural beauties that Munnar is famous for are its lush greenery, beautiful tea estates, and blankets formed of mist in some regions, making it look like a dreamy sequence.
If you think there is nothing to do in Munnar except appreciate its natural beauty, think again as Munnar is one of the top Kerala sightseeing places! Visiting Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and the Eravikulam National Park are two things to do in Kerala and should be on your itinerary.
3. Wayanad
The place in Kerala that is known globally for spice plantations is Wayanad. But that is not all; get the experience of visiting pre-historic caves found in abundance here. If you are searching for exciting things to do in Kerala, you can trek to one of these places. Take your gang or family and enjoy a beautiful journey amidst the greenery and majestic views.
You can also witness the beauty of exquisite flora and fauna at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. This place is a perfect choice for a short weekend trip for people staying nearby.
4. Varkala
Many of you have heard of Munnar or Alleppey, but only a few people outside Kerala know about Varkala. The hippie culture or shacks on the beach is not something we find exclusively in Goa. The coastal town of Kerala, Varkala, also offers these experiences.
Varkala has everything from incredible beaches, finger-licking seafood, and lighthouses to forts and lakes. The comparatively lower popularity of the place has ensured the beaches are super clean and an excellent choice for a short trip.
5. Periyar National Park
One of the best places to visit in Kerala is the Periyar National Park. Significant animal species of elephants and tigers are found in abundance here. If you love forests, then the Periyar National Park, located in Thekkady, will be your paradise.
The authorities have made provisions for boat tours, jeep safaris, and even elephant safaris for the tourists flocking in from all corners of the globe. In addition, there are multiple options available for eco-tourism activities which you should also check out.
6. Kumarakom
On the banks of Kerala’s largest lake lies one of the most beautiful places of Kerala, called Kumarakom. It is not a single city or village but a cluster of small islands on the lake.
If you are looking for something away from a city’s glitter and dazzle, then Kumarakom is the best Kerala sightseeing place. You get to stay in houseboats, enjoy some local yet delicious cuisines and check out the local rice barges called Kettuvallams when in Kumarakom. You can also visit the Kumarakom bird sanctuary to witness some rare species you may not find anywhere else in the world.
7. Vagamon
You have heard about both the places Kottayam and Idukki. On the border of these two lies a beautiful place called Wagamon or Vagamon. This place has such majesties locations and incredible views that it is often called the Scotland of Asia.
Vagamon is recently garnering a lot of popularity among adventure sports lovers. Activities like rock climbing, trekking, and paragliding are being offered to tourists. Even an International Paragliding Festival is celebrated every year here by the AASTA.
8. Kovalam
There is hardly anyone in India who did not hear about the mesmerizing beach of Kerala, Kovalam. Located at a distance of just 13 km from Thiruvananthapuram, If you are located somewhere near it, then this is the best place to visit in Kerala for a quick trip.
There are numerous beaches adjacent to Kovalam, but the largest one has a lighthouse in it with a height of 30 meters. The two other popular ones are Samudra and Hawa Beach. From ayurvedic treatments and meditations to options for quick shopping sprees, Kovalam offers it all.
9. Bekal
This is one of those tourist places of Kerala that is not very popular but one of the best places to visit in the State. Bekal is a small town that houses backwaters, forts, and of course, beautiful beaches.
The landmark of Kasaragod District, the region where Bekal is located, is the largest fortress in Kerala. The Bekal Fort, built in 1650 AD, is something you should definitely not miss when in Kerala.
Apart from the fortress, Kappil beach, Chandragiri Fort, and Nityananandashram caves are the other major attractions.
10. Palakkad
You would be shocked to learn that the name of this place is due to the Pala trees that are abundant in this region. Palakkad serves as the key granary of the state due to the immense production and availability of Palmyras and Paddy Fields.
If you are travelling with your kids and looking for fun things to do in Kerala, then you can visit the Fantasy Park in Palakkad. It is one of the first amusement parks in the state and is the perfect place for kids to enjoy.
11. Nelliyampathy
This place is again one of those off-route destinations of Kerala. It is a hill station that you will find on the Kerala and Tamil Nadu border.
We all know Kerala for its high-quality coffee and cardamom. This town offers you some of the most abundant plantations of coffee, tea, and even cardamom that you won’t find anywhere else in India.
The best time to visit Kerala is September to March. However, if you want to visit Nelliyampathy, specifically then it is the month of April. One of the most colourful festivals of the State, the Nenmara Vellanghy vela, takes place during this time of the year.
12. Vythiri
If you are someone who loves exploring the less travelled roads, then Vythiri is your calling. The small cottages, log huts, and tree houses are something that you can find here. At a height of 700 meters from sea level, this place constitutes 18 villages.
This is the place where you can enjoy a simple life and get a glimpse of the old-world charm. The significant attractions of Vythiri include the Chembara peak, Meenmutty Falls, and Pookot Lake. So, if you are looking for a peaceful place to crash away from the city’s hustle and bustle, you should try this place.
On a Final Note
Kerala is a place with excellent beaches, picturesque views, lush forests, and a lot more. If you love travelling and want to visit someplace that is close to nature, then you should definitely think about this South Indian State.
We have given you a list of the 12 best places to visit in Kerala. Some of them are popular, like Munnar, while others, like Vythiri and Nelliyampathy, are less travelled. So choose the places you want to visit according to your preferences and availability. One thing is for sure, whatever you choose, you won’t regret any of them when visiting Kerala.
