Kerala, widely known as God’s Own Country, is a scenic state in the southwestern part of India, admired for its rich natural beauty, varied landscapes, and calm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its lush greenery, backwaters, tranquil beaches, and serene hill stations, Kerala is a state that captivates the hearts of all types of travellers. The state is also rich in culture, with an array of traditional dance forms, festivals, and culinary delights that reflect its diverse heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, adventure seeker, or someone looking for a relaxing getaway, Kerala offers something unique for everyone.
This guide brings together the best places to visit in Kerala, covering well-known highlights and quieter escapes. Whether you are searching for places to visit in Kerala with family, planning a honeymoon, or looking for unique places to visit in Kerala, this list helps you choose with clarity. These destinations together represent the most famous tourist places in Kerala and some lesser-known gems that deserve attention.
Top 15 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala in 2026
1. Munnar
Munnar stands out among the top places to visit in Kerala for its rolling tea gardens, cool climate, and mountain views. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar offers visitors a tranquil retreat amidst lush greenery and high-altitude views. It is also home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Munnar’s tea estates are perfect for leisurely strolls, and you can trek to Anamudi Peak for some of the best panoramic views in the region. The Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and trekking enthusiasts will enjoy the adventure. Tourists must see the famous Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years and will create a stunning blue carpet on the hills again in 2030.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal Weather: Cool, pleasant, with a misty atmosphere
Highlights: Lush tea plantations, high-altitude views, Eravikulam National Park
Activities: Visit tea estates, trek to Anamudi Peak, explore Mattupetty Dam, and experience the Neelakurinji flower bloom
Luxury Stays: Tea County Resort, Spice Tree Munnar
2. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey is one of the most popular tourist places in Kerala, known for its backwaters and houseboat stays. Located along the serene Vembanad Lake, it is often called the “Venice of the East.” With its lush greenery, coconut palms, and tranquil canals, Alleppey offers an unforgettable experience of Kerala’s backwaters and a glimpse into the rural life of the state.
The houseboat cruises on the backwaters are a unique experience, offering travellers a chance to float through the canals while enjoying Kerala’s natural beauty. You can also visit Alappuzha Beach for some relaxation and enjoy delicious seafood. For those interested in local history, the Alappuzha Lighthouse provides a beautiful view of the town.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Ideal Weather: Mild and pleasant, perfect for backwater cruising
Highlights: Houseboat cruises, Vembanad Lake, Kerala backwaters
Activities: Houseboat cruises, visit Alappuzha Beach, enjoy local seafood, and explore Alappuzha Lighthouse
Luxury Stays: Punnamada Ayurvedic Resort, Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere
3. Wayanad
Wayanad, located in the Western Ghats, is a charming district known for its lush forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and scenic waterfalls. It is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers, offering numerous trekking trails and adventure activities. It is less crowded than other destinations in Kerala, making it perfect for those looking to escape into nature.
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, and leopards, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The Edakkal Caves feature age-old rock carvings that reflect early human life and offer insight into Wayanad’s long and layered past. The picturesque Pookode Lake and the surrounding waterfalls make this one of the best tourist places in Kerala for nature walks and adventure activities.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Ideal Weather: Pleasant with cool nights, ideal for trekking and nature walks
Highlights: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake
Activities: Trekking to Edakkal Caves, visiting Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, boat ride in Pookode Lake, and exploring waterfalls like Meenmutty and Soochipara
Luxury Stays: Vythiri Resort, Wayanad Silverwoods Resort
4. Kochi (Cochin)
Kochi is one of the most important tourist destinations in Kerala. It is known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea and is a bustling port city with a rich colonial history and vibrant culture. The city is a melting pot of different cultures, from the Chinese fishing nets and Portuguese colonial architecture to the Jewish Synagogue and Dutch Palace. Kochi is the cultural hub of Kerala, making it an ideal destination for those interested in history, arts, and culture.
Fort Kochi is home to the iconic Chinese fishing nets, a sight that has become synonymous with Kerala’s coastal culture. The Jewish Synagogue and Dutch Palace highlight the city’s colonial past, while Kathakali performances and local art galleries bring Kerala’s vibrant culture to life.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal Weather: Moderate, comfortable weather for sightseeing
Highlights: Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, Kerala history, and culture
Activities: Walk through the heritage streets of Fort Kochi, visit the Jewish Synagogue, attend a live Kathakali show, and spend time along the Kochi Marina waterfront.
Luxury Stays: Brunton Boatyard, Le Meridien Kochi
5. Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a serene backwater destination located along the banks of Vembanad Lake. It is valued for its calm setting, rich birdlife, and relaxed boat journeys through the backwaters. Kumarakom is an ideal place for those seeking tranquillity amidst nature and offers luxurious stays with views of the lake, making it one of the best places to visit in Kerala for a relaxing vacation.
Kumarakom offers a peaceful retreat with its serene houseboat rides and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to various migratory bird species. Visitors can also indulge in traditional Ayurvedic treatments, making it the perfect destination for wellness seekers.
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Ideal Weather: Mild and cool, ideal for backwater cruises
Highlights: Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and serene backwaters
Activities: Houseboat rides, bird watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, visiting local villages, and enjoying traditional Kerala Ayurvedic treatments
Luxury Stays: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Zuri Kumarakom
6. Kovalam
Kovalam continues to be one of the most famous tourist places in Kerala, recognised for its wide sandy coastline, clear waters, and rows of coconut palms along the shore. It is an ideal destination for beach lovers and those looking for a blend of relaxation and adventure. Kovalam is also famous for its Ayurvedic spas, offering visitors a chance to rejuvenate their body and mind.
Kovalam offers a perfect mix of sun, sea, and sand. Visitors can take part in water activities, spend time unwinding by the shore, or head to the Kovalam Lighthouse for sweeping coastal views. The area is also known for its Ayurvedic centres that focus on relaxation and wellness therapies.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Ideal Weather: Warm and pleasant, perfect for beach vacations
Highlights: Kovalam Beach, lighthouse, water sports activities
Activities: Relax on the beach, enjoy water sports like parasailing and surfing, visit the Kovalam Lighthouse, and indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments
Luxury Stays: The Leela Kovalam, Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra
7. Vagamon
Vagamon is a peaceful hill destination that fits well into a list of top tourist destinations in Kerala for offbeat travel. It is known for its rolling meadows, pine forests, and cool, misty climate. It suits travellers who enjoy nature and outdoor activities while preferring a calm setting away from crowded, commercial spots. Vagamon is perfect for trekking, paragliding, and exploring Kerala’s natural beauty in all its glory.
Vagamon is perfect for those seeking serenity amidst nature. The tea gardens and pine forests make it an excellent location for trekking, while paragliding offers a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal Weather: Cool, misty climate, ideal for nature lovers
Highlights: Tea gardens, pine forests, meadows
Activities: Trekking, paragliding, visiting Vagamon Lake, and exploring pine forests
Luxury Stays: Vagamon Heights Resort, Green Berg Resort
8. Thekkady
Home to dense forests and rich biodiversity, Thekkady is widely known as one of the most rewarding tourist places in Kerala for travellers who enjoy nature and wildlife. Set in the Western Ghats, the region offers a cooler climate and a strong forest presence, making it a refreshing break from coastal destinations. Spice plantations spread across the hills add a distinct character to the area and reflect Kerala’s long history with the spice trade.
At the heart of Thekkady lies the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, famous for its lake safaris and protected forest zones. A cruise across Periyar Lake gives visitors the chance to see elephants, deer, and a variety of birds gathered near the forested shores. Guided nature walks and plantation visits further deepen the experience, making Thekkady a well-rounded destination for wildlife exploration and slow, immersive travel.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Ideal Weather: Cool, pleasant climate for wildlife exploration
Highlights: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spice plantations, and boating on Periyar Lake
Activities: Boat ride in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, visit spice plantations, nature walks, and bamboo rafting
Luxury Stays: The Elephant Court, Spice Village Resort
9. Athirappilly (Athirapally)
Athirapilly is one of Kerala’s most loved nature destinations, known for its dense forests, river views, and calm surroundings. Located near the Western Ghats, the area draws visitors who enjoy greenery, quiet trails, and rich wildlife. The region feels most alive during the monsoon, when the rivers swell, and the forest turns deep green.
The highlight of the area is the Athirapilly Waterfalls, popularly compared to the Niagara of India, where a broad sheet of water plunges with force, becoming most impressive during the monsoon months. The sound and mist of the falling water create a striking experience. Nearby attractions such as Vazhachal enhance the experience, making Athirapilly appealing for travellers who enjoy forest settings, scenic views, and natural surroundings shaped by flowing rivers.
Best Time to Visit: June to October
Ideal Weather: Monsoon season, lush greenery, and full-flowing waterfalls
Highlights: Majestic waterfalls, lush forests, and wildlife
Activities: Visit the Athirapally Waterfalls, explore the nearby Vazhachal Waterfalls, and go on nature walks through the forests
Luxury Stays: Rainforest Ayurvedic Resort, Athirappilly River Resort
10. Varkala
Varkala is known for its dramatic cliff-side views overlooking the Arabian Sea. Papanasam Beach holds strong religious importance, while the elevated cliffs create some of the most striking sunset scenes in the state. Compared to busier coastal towns, Varkala feels calmer and less crowded, making it a preferred choice for travellers who want time by the sea without constant activity.
With its relaxed atmosphere, open sea views, and slower pace, Varkala is often counted among the best places to visit in Kerala for those seeking quiet beach stays. The combination of cliff walks, peaceful beaches, and uninterrupted ocean views makes it ideal for unwinding and enjoying Kerala’s coastline at an easy rhythm.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal Weather: Pleasant, perfect for a coastal getaway
Highlights: Varkala Beach, Papanasam Beach, cliff-side views
Activities: Relax on the beach, swim, enjoy sunset views from the cliffs, and visit Janardana Swamy Temple
Luxury Stays: The Gateway Hotel Varkala, Varkala Marine Palace
11. Palakkad
Palakkad is a district where history and nature sit side by side. Often called the gateway to Kerala, it is shaped by the wide Palakkad Gap, which brings a distinct landscape of open plains, hills, and fertile paddy fields. This mix gives the region a calm, expansive feel that is quite different from coastal Kerala.
The town is anchored by Palakkad Fort, a well-preserved structure that reflects the area’s historical role in trade and defence. Beyond the town, the district opens into rich forest zones. Silent Valley National Park preserves a largely undisturbed stretch of tropical rainforest, sheltering unique plant species and a wide range of wildlife. Nearby, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve adds to Palakkad’s appeal with its deep forests and sightings of elephants, birds, and big cats, making the district rewarding for heritage seekers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Ideal Weather: Pleasant, with cool mornings and evenings
Highlights: Palakkad Fort, Silent Valley National Park, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Activities: Visit the Palakkad Fort, explore Silent Valley National Park, hike to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Luxury Stays: Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village, Kalari Kovilakom
12. Bekal
Bekal is a seaside town in northern Kerala valued for its calm atmosphere and pleasant surroundings. Its prominent landmark, Bekal Fort, sits along the coastline and provides sweeping views of the Arabian Sea, appealing to visitors who like history paired with open sea scenery. The surrounding area includes a clean beach and calm backwaters that add to the town’s charm.
With its blend of a historic fort, open coastline, and quiet waterways, Bekal fits naturally among the best places to visit in Kerala. Visitors may relax with a beach walk, enjoy coastal views from the fort, or take a gentle boat ride through nearby backwaters, making the area suitable for both easygoing stays and brief sightseeing visits.
Best Time to Visit: December to February
Ideal Weather: Comfortable and cool, perfect for exploring
Highlights: Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, scenic backwaters
Activities: Visit Bekal Fort, relax on Bekal Beach, and take a boat ride through the backwaters
Luxury Stays: Taj Bekal Resort & Spa, The LaLiT Resort & Spa
13. Thrissur
Thrissur holds a central place in Kerala’s cultural identity, with deep roots in traditional music, classical dance, and local art forms. The city comes alive during Thrissur Pooram, a spectacular annual celebration that brings together temple rituals, rhythmic percussion, decorated elephants, and grand processions, drawing visitors from across the country.
Beyond the festival, Thrissur offers strong historical depth. The centuries-old Vadakkunnathan Temple stands as a symbol of the region’s spiritual and architectural heritage, while the Archaeological Museum provides insight into Kerala’s past through artefacts and exhibits. Together, these experiences make Thrissur a meaningful stop for travellers interested in culture, history, and living traditions.
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Ideal Weather: Pleasant, ideal for exploring cultural sites
Highlights: Thrissur Pooram celebrations, the historic Vadakkunnathan Temple, and easy access to nearby Athirappilly Waterfalls
Activities: Spend time at Vadakkunnathan Temple, experience the Thrissur Pooram festival during April or May, and explore the collections at the Archaeological Museum
Luxury Stays: Casino Hotels Ltd, The Garuda Hotel
14. Munroe Island
Munroe Island is a quiet group of islands surrounded by narrow canals and backwaters, creating a setting shaped almost entirely by water. Coconut trees, small villages, and simple pathways give the area a slow and relaxed rhythm, far from crowded travel spots.
The charm of Munroe Island comes from its close connection to everyday village life. Visitors can glide through quiet canals by canoe, move past village homes and temples, and observe everyday life unfolding along the water’s edge. With its calm atmosphere and authentic backwater experience, Munroe Island is often counted among the best tourist places in Kerala for travellers who prefer nature, culture, and unhurried exploration.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal Weather: Mild and pleasant
Highlights: River meeting points, local traditions, and immersive backwater journeys
Activities: Boat rides, exploring the island’s village life, visiting local temples
Luxury Stays: S Cross Munroe Island Resort, Munroe Island Lake Resort
15. Poovar
Poovar is a peaceful village at the southern end of Kerala, recognised for its soft sandy shoreline and calm backwaters that flow alongside the coast. The village is ideal for those seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of more commercialised destinations.
Poovar offers a unique experience with its pristine beaches and calm backwaters. It’s perfect for travellers seeking relaxation, away from the crowds of more popular destinations. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, beach walks, and serene moments in a tranquil environment.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Ideal Weather: Pleasant and cool
Highlights: Tranquil backwaters, Poovar Beach, and the backwater island
Activities: Spend time along the shoreline, enjoy a boat trip through the backwaters, and walk across nearby stretches of golden sand.
Luxury Stays: Poovar Island Resort, Isola Di Cocco
How to Choose What Suits You: Matching Your Travel Style
- For peace and relaxation: Choose calm backwater stays in Alleppey or Kumarakom, or quiet coastal towns like Varkala and Poovar.
- For hills and greenery: Head to Munnar, Wayanad, or Vagamon for cool weather, tea gardens, and forest views.
- For variety and culture: Visit Kochi or Thrissur to experience heritage sites, local traditions, and cultural events.
- For adventure and nature: Explore Thekkady, Wayanad, or Athirappilly for wildlife, trekking, and outdoor activities.
- For family or mixed-age groups: A balanced mix of Alleppey, Munnar, Kochi, and Kumarakom works well for easy travel and varied experiences.
Plan Your Dream Kerala Vacation with All 4 Season – Your Luxury Travel Expert
Let All 4 Season take you on an unforgettable journey through Kerala’s stunning backwaters, serene beaches, and lush hill stations. Whether you’re looking for peaceful retreats or thrilling adventures, we’ve got personalised recommendations for you to visit the best places in Kerala.
As your trusted luxury travel expert, All 4 Season specialises in curating bespoke itineraries tailored to your preferences. From the iconic Munnar tea plantations to the tranquil shores of Alleppey, we ensure every moment of your Kerala vacation is seamless and luxurious.
Connect with us today, and let our luxury travel experts plan your perfect Kerala getaway, complete with exclusive experiences and luxury accommodations. Start Your Kerala Adventure.
