Kerala is recognised as God’s own country, which refers to its extraordinary beauty, peacefulness, and sacredness. Imagine, if this title represents a state, how stunning the place must be.

The most beautiful holiday destination in South India is well known for its beautiful beaches, lush green hill stations, rich wildlife sanctuaries, organic spice and tea plantations, historic temples and forts, authentic South Indian cuisine, vibrant culture, and festivals. Kerala is undoubtedly one of the top tourist destinations in India that one must visit once in their life.

Why Visit Kerala?

  • Stunning variety: beaches, backwaters, hills, forests, and heritage sites.
  • Rich culture: vibrant festivals, classical arts, and authentic South Indian cuisine.
  • Relaxed pace: serene landscapes perfect for slow, meaningful travel.

Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Kerala

From Alleppey’s backwater rides and Munnar’s hills to Varkala’s sunsets and Thekkady’s wildlife, Kerala brings together the state’s main attractions in one unforgettable journey. This top 10 roundup highlights the must-visit destinations in Kerala with our detailed Kerala travel guide. 

1) Wayanad

Wayanad is one of the most popular hill stations in South India, situated at an altitude of 700-2100 meters, and is a paradise with breathtakingly beautiful hills, misty mountains, lush green forests, rich wildlife, and organic spice plantations. 

Top attractions in Wayanad: 

  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Edakkal Caves
  • Chembra Peak 
  • Pookode Lake
  • Soochipara Falls
  • Sentinel Rock Falls
  • Wayanad Heritage Museum
  • Thirunelli Temple
  • Kuruva Island

Best things to do: 

  • Chembra Peak Trekking
  • Eddakal Caves Trekking
  • Soochipara Waterfall Trek
  • Camping, Jungle Safari in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Boating in Pookode Lake and Banasura Sagar Dam.

Best time to visit Wayanad: October – May

2) Kumarakom

Kumarakom is famous for its amazing backwaters and houseboat experience. Your Kerala trip would be incomplete without trying out the backwaters in Kumarakom. 

Top Attractions in Kumarakom: 

  • Vembanad Lake
  • Kumarakom Bird  Sanctuary
  •  Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
  •  Pathiramanal Island
  •  Kumarakom Beach
  •  Bay Island Driftwood Museum
  •  Sree Kumaramangalam Temple

Best things to do: 

  • Kumarakom Backwater Houseboat Cruise
  • Boating in Vembanad Lake
  • Bird Watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
  • Fishing in Backwaters
  • Cycling 

Best time to visit: November to February

3) Kovalam

Kovalam is the ultimate paradise for beach lovers and the best beach destination in Kerala for you. Kovalam is famous for its top three beaches: Samudra Beach, Light House Beach, and Hawa Beach. Kovalam is a must-visit destination in Kerala for a peaceful escape from your busy life. Explore Kovalam with your friends and family and make memories. 

Kovalam’s top attractions: 

  • Light House Beach, Hawa Beach
  • Samudra Beach, Vellayani Lake
  • Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
  • Poovar Island

Best things to do: 

  • Boating near the lighthouse beach area
  •  Surfing
  • Parasailing
  • Kayaking
  • Ayurvedic Treatments and Spas
  • Backwaters
  • Trekking
  • Yoga and meditation.

Best time to visit: November to February

4) Varkala

Varkala is yet another destination for beach lovers, peace seekers, and travellers with a subtle desire for a spiritual vibe. People who like less crowded tourist places or beaches. Apart from this, one can also go to the north cliff of this beach and walk through the hippie market in Varkala,  offering you a combination of a relaxed yet fun atmosphere.  

Top attractions in Varkala: 

  • Janardhana Swamy Temple
  • Varkala Cliff
  • Sivagiri Mutt
  • Kappil Lake
  • Anjengo Fort
  • Puthenmalika (Kuthiramalika) Palace Museum
  • Varkala Aquarium 

Best things to do in Varkala: 

  • Cliff Jumping in Varkala
  • Surfing
  •  Boating in Kappil Lake
  •  Paragliding
  •  Punnapra Backwater Cruise

Best time to visit: Winter Season

5) Thekkady

Thekkady is one of the top tourist places in Kerala for nature admirers and hikers, located in the Idukki district of Kerala. Thekkady’s tea gardens and spice plantations are a must-visit experience, giving tourists more knowledge about tea cultivation, its types, and flavours.

Top attractions in Thekkady: 

  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Periyar Lake, Mangaladevi Temple
  • Thekkady Spice Plantation

Best things to do: 

  • Wildlife Safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Elephant Ride
  • Periyar Lake Boating
  • Bamboo Rafting in Periyar Lake
  • Nature Walk 

Best time to visit: October- March, April- June

6) Kochi

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a major city in Kerala. The city is vibrant, culturally rich, and economically important. Kochi city plays a major role in Kerala tourism and is also an eco-friendly tourism hub famous for its backwaters and beaches, spices and trading, and flavourful, authentic South Indian cuisine with a soothing yet energetic vibe around the city. 

Top Attractions of Kochi: 

  • Fort Kochi
  • Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
  • Jewish Synagogue (Paradesi Synagogue)
  • Cherai Beach
  • Marine Drive
  • Kochi Backwaters
  • Bolgatty Palace and Island
  • Hill Palace Museum
  • Kochi-Muziris Biennale
  • Willington Island
  • Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
  • Vypin Island
  • Kerala Folklore Museum

Best things to do in Kochi: 

  • Attend a Kathakali performance or Kalaripayattu (martial arts)
  • Backwater cruise in Kochi
  • Bird Watching at Mangalavanam
  • Trying Chinese fishing nets
  • Cycling around Fort Kochi

Best time to visit: October- March

7) Vagamon

Vagamon, a famous hill station in South India, is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) above sea level. 

For nature lovers, Vagamon is an ideal destination in Kerala to make a trip to. For couples, this place is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Kerala. 

Vagamon’s top Attractions: 

  • Vagamon Lake
  • Kurishumala Church
  • Thangal Para
  • Elaveezha Poonchira
  • Vagamon Falls
  • Vagamon Wildlife Sanctuary

Best things to do in Vagamon: 

  • Elaveezha Poonchira trekking
  • Thangal Para trek
  • Paragliding in Vagamon
  • Boating in Vagamon Lake
  • Camping, Bird Watching

Best time to visit: October to March 

8) Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Alleppey is one of the most beautiful places in Kerala, a perfect combination of fun, adventure, and beauty. Alleppey is the only city in Kerala where there are no natural forests. Alleppey is famous for offering the best backwater rides in Kerala and cosy houseboat stays, surrounded by paddy fields, beautiful coconut trees, and clear skies, which present you with the best experience possible, taking you away from the hectic city life to a soothing and refreshing world.  

Alleppey Top attractions: 

  • Mottakunnu, Elappumala
  • Idukki Dam, Vagamon Lake
  • Kurishumala Ashram
  •  Parunthumpara

Best things to do: 

  • Trekking the second-highest peak in Kerala
  •  Meesapulimala Trek
  •  Vagamonn Hill Trek
  •  Elappumala Trek
  •  Vagamon Lake boating
  •  Mountain Biking
  •  Birdwatching

Best time to visit: October to February and March to May

9) Munnar

Munnar is referred to as the Kashmir of South India. As the title suggests, Munnar is among the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala, situated at an elevation of 1,600 meters above sea level, and it is located in the Western Ghats, India.

This popular hill station of Kerala is famous for its cool climate, breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and more. For those seeking heaven on Earth, Munnar is just the perfect place for you. 

So, plan a holiday trip to Kerala and visit South India’s Kashmir with your dear ones. 

Munnar’s top attractions: 

  • Eravikulam National Park
  •  Anamudi Peak (the highest peak in South India)
  •  Mattupetty Dam, Attukal Waterfalls
  •  Kundala Lake
  •  Echo Point
  •  Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
  •  Top Station
  •  The Tata Tea Museum

Best things to do: 

  • Visit Eravikulam National Park
  • Hike at Attukal Waterfalls
  • Go boating in Kundala Lake
  • Anamudi Peak Trekking
  • Bird Watching 
  • Photography

Best time to visit Munnar: October- March, April- June

10) Athirappilly

Athirappilly, often called the Niagara of India, is one of Kerala’s most breathtaking waterfalls, located in the Thrissur district. Surrounded by lush forests and rich wildlife, it’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts.

Top attractions in Athirappilly:

  • Athirappilly Waterfalls
  • Vazhachal Waterfalls
  • Charpa Falls
  • Sholayar Dam
  • Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Best things to do:

  • Trekking to nearby trails and viewpoints
  • Photography of waterfalls and wildlife
  • Birdwatching at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
  • Nature walks in the forested surroundings
  • Visit nearby villages to experience local culture

Best time to visit: June – October (Monsoon season brings the falls to full glory), but November – February is ideal for comfortable sightseeing.

Conclusion

From breathtaking landscapes to misty atmosphere, organic tea plantations, and adventure activities. Kerala has so much in store for you. 

Every place in Kerala promises a memorable experience. Ready to explore God’s Own Country? Select our customizable Kerala Itinerary and book your unforgettable Kerala trip now!

FAQ

Which is the most beautiful place in Kerala?

Munnar, referred to as the Kashmir of South India, is said to be the prettiest place in Kerala. From its rolling hills, and beautiful tea plantations to its misty landscapes and waterfalls, it is definitely a must-see for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Other scenic places are Wayanad, Vagamon, and Thekkady.

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

Kerala is a wonderful destination from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for visiting the beaches, backwaters, and hill stations.

Summer (April – June): Great to visit hill stations such as Munnar and Wayanad.

Monsoon (June – September): Excellent for Ayurvedic therapies, waterfalls, and greenery.

Is Kerala safe for tourists?

Yes! Kerala is one of the safest states in India for travellers. It has a low crime rate, friendly locals, and strong tourism infrastructure. Major cities and tourist hubs like Kochi, Trivandrum, Munnar, and Alleppey are particularly safe.

What is Kerala most famous for?

Kerala is renowned for:

  • Backwaters and houseboat experiences
  • Beautiful beaches and cliffside views
  • Hill stations with tea plantations
  • Ayurveda and wellness retreats
  • Spices and organic plantations
  • Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks
  • Rich culture, art forms, and festivals
Which are the top hill stations in Kerala?

Kerala’s top hill stations include:

  • Munnar: Tea plantations, waterfalls, and Anamudi Peak.
  • Wayanad: Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, and wildlife.
  • Vagamon: Pine forests, valleys, and adventure sports.
  • Thekkady: Spice plantations, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and trekking.
What are the top beaches to visit in Kerala?

The most famous beaches in Kerala are:

  • Kovalam Beach – Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach, ideal for water sports
  • Varkala Beach – Cliffside views and calm atmosphere
  • Marari Beach – Serene, less crowded beach near Alleppey
  • Cherai Beach – Backwaters meet the sea
  • Bekal Beach – Historical fort and long coastline
Why is Kerala called God’s Own Country?

Kerala is called God’s Own Country due to its extraordinary natural beauty—lush greenery, backwaters, hill stations, wildlife, rich culture, and spiritual heritage. Every corner offers a sense of peace and connection with nature.

Which is better to visit – Alleppey or Kumarakom?
  • Alleppey: Famous for houseboat stays and extensive canal rides.
  • Kumarakom: Quieter, ideal for birdwatching, serene backwaters, and peaceful relaxation.
What are some hidden gems in Kerala?
  • Silent Valley National Park – Pristine biodiversity
  • Vagamon meadows – Rolling hills and scenic valleys
  • Gavi Forest – Wildlife and trekking paradise
  • Valiyaparamba Backwaters – Offbeat, serene backwater experience
Which districts are best for tourism in Kerala?
  • Idukki: Munnar, Thekkady, Vagamon
  • Alleppey (Alappuzha): Backwaters and houseboats
  • Ernakulam: Kochi city, Fort Kochi, cultural hubs
  • Wayanad: Hill station, wildlife, and trekking
How to plan your Kerala trip?
  • Decide duration (5–7 days recommended).
  • Choose locations: combination of hill stations, beaches, and backwaters.
  • Book accommodation in advance (especially houseboats).
  • Hire a cab/driver for intercity travel.
  • Explore local cuisine, Ayurvedic treatments, and cultural activities.
. Can Kerala be visited during monsoon?
  • Yes, Kerala during monsoon (June–September) is lush green and rejuvenating. It’s ideal for:
  • Ayurvedic wellness treatments
  • Visiting waterfalls and plantations
  • Experiencing quieter tourist spots
  • Note: Avoid long treks in heavy rain for safety.
Are there adventure activities in Kerala?

Yes! Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy:

  • Trekking (Chembra Peak, Meesapulimala, Vagamon)
  • Water sports (surfing, kayaking, parasailing in Kovalam & Varkala)
  • Wildlife safaris (Periyar, Wayanad, Chinnar)
  • Paragliding (Vagamon)
  • Bamboo rafting (Thekkady, Periyar Lake)