Kerala is fondly known as “God’s Own Country” due to its tropical beauty and it is one of the most beautiful states. Famous for its lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, misty hill stations, tropical beaches and rich cultural heritage, Kerala is one of India's most popular travel destinations.
Kerala is also renowned for its traditional Ayurveda, distinctive cuisine, classical art forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, colourful festivals and warm hospitality. The state's cuisine features delicious specialities such as appam with stew, Kerala sadya, puttu and fresh seafood.
With its diverse attractions and pleasant tropical charm, Keralam is an ideal destination for honeymoons, family vacations, nature escapes, adventure trips and relaxing holidays. Whether you're looking for a peaceful houseboat stay, a romantic hill retreat or an immersive cultural experience, Kerala has something for every traveller.
Build a Kerala itinerary around a manageable route
Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady and the backwaters form the core of our ten-night private Kerala journey. The combination moves from a harbour city to tea hills, spice country and waterways. A destination list is a set of choices, not a recommendation to cover every place in one trip.
Hill transfers need time, and moving hotels every night can undermine a restful journey. A beach extension or northern Kerala visit should add nights or replace a core stop. Share your arrival and departure airports, walking comfort and interests before choosing the order of stays.
For time on the water, compare a day cruise, an overnight boat and a lakeside resort in our backwaters planning guide. Each offers a different balance of facilities, privacy and time aboard. The proposal should confirm the exact allocation of hotel and boat nights and the activities included.
Places to Visit In Keralam
1. Munnar - The Tea Garden Paradise
Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala, known for its rolling tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, cool climate, and peaceful natural surroundings. Located in the Western Ghats at an elevation of around 1,500 metres, Munnar is a popular destination for honeymooners, nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers.
The landscape is covered with vast tea estates, lush green valleys, waterfalls and winding mountain roads. In Munnar you can witness the rare Neelakurinji flower, which famously blooms periodically across parts of the Western Ghats if you are travelling at blooming period time.
Top things to do in Munnar
- Visit the tea plantations and tea museum
- Explore Eravikulam National Park
- See the Mattupetty Dam and lake
- Visit Top Station for panoramic views
- Enjoy nature walks and trekking
2. Alleppey - The Backwater Capital of Kerala
Alleppey, officially known as Alappuzha, is one of Kerala’s most enchanting destinations and is widely famous for its serene backwaters, lush paddy fields, coconut palms, and traditional houseboats. Often called the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey offers travellers a chance to experience Kerala at a slower and at more peaceful pace.
The highlight of an Alleppey trip is undoubtedly a houseboat cruise through the Kerala backwaters. These traditional houseboats (Kettuvallams) drift through a network of canals, lagoons and waterways, giving picturesque local villages and verdant landscapes along the way. Spending a night on a houseboat is especially popular with couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic getaway.
Top Things to Do in Alleppey
- Stay overnight on a traditional Kerala houseboat
- Take a scenic backwater cruise
- Relax at Alappuzha Beach
- Explore the countryside and paddy fields
- Try traditional Kerala cuisine
- Enjoy sunset views over the backwaters
- Experience a traditional canoe ride through narrow canals
The backwaters reward a slower pace. A quiet morning on a small boat can reveal more than hours spent rushing from one place to another.
3. Kochi - Where History Meets Modern Kerala
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant coastal city where Kerala's rich history blends beautifully with modern culture. Once an important trading centre for spices, Kochi has been influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arab and Chinese traders, giving the city a unique multicultural character.
The historic Fort Kochi area is the heart of the city's heritage and is known for its colonial-era buildings, charming streets, art galleries, cafes and the iconic Chinese fishing nets along the waterfront. A visit to Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town and the Paradesi Synagogue offers a glimpse into Kochi's fascinating past.
Beyond its heritage, Kochi is also one of Kerala's most lively urban destinations, with contemporary restaurants, shopping areas, cultural events and a growing art scene.
Top things to do in Kochi
- Explore Fort Kochi
- See the Chinese fishing nets
- Visit Mattancherry Palace
- Explore Jew Town and the Paradesi Synagogue
- Enjoy the city's cafés and art spaces
4. Wayanad - A Green Escape
Nestled in the lush Western Ghats of Kerala, Wayanad is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and travellers looking for a peaceful escape. Covered with dense forests, misty mountains, waterfalls, spice plantations, and scenic valleys, Wayanad offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The region is also rich in history and culture, with attractions such as the ancient Edakkal Caves, where prehistoric rock engravings offer a glimpse into Kerala's distant past. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary provides opportunities to explore Kerala's diverse flora and fauna.
Top things to do in Wayanad
- Visit Edakkal Caves
- Explore Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- See Soochipara Falls
- Visit Banasura Sagar Dam
- Enjoy trekking and nature trails
5. Thekkady - Wildlife and Spice Plantations
Thekkady is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. Best known as the gateway to Periyar National Park, Thekkady offers a refreshing combination of dense forests, scenic lakes, diverse wildlife, and fragrant spice plantations. It is an ideal destination for travellers who want to experience Kerala beyond its beaches and backwaters.
One of the highlights of visiting Thekkady is a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where you can admire the beautiful forest landscape and, with some luck, spot elephants, deer, wild boars and a variety of birds along the shoreline. Adventure enthusiasts can also explore trekking trails and guided nature walks through the surrounding forests.
Thekkady is equally famous for its spice plantations, particularly cardamom, pepper, cinnamon and cloves. A guided plantation tour offers an interesting insight into Kerala's spice-growing traditions while allowing visitors to experience the wonderful aromas of the region.
Top things to do in Thekkady
- Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake
- Explore the wildlife sanctuary
- Visit spice plantations
- Go trekking
- Experience traditional Kerala cultural performances
6. Varkala - Beach Bliss with Dramatic Cliffs
Varkala is one of the most beautiful coastal destinations in Kerala, famous for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, golden beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The iconic Varkala Cliff is lined with cafés, restaurants, shops and wellness centres, making it a favourite among couples, backpackers and leisure travellers.
The main attraction, Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach), is known for its stunning sunsets and peaceful seaside setting. Visitors can also explore the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple, enjoy Ayurvedic treatments, practise yoga or simply spend a relaxing evening watching the waves from the cliff.
Top things to do in Varkala
- Relax at Varkala Beach
- Watch the sunset from the cliff
- Visit Janardhana Swamy Temple
- Explore the cliffside cafés
- Enjoy yoga and wellness experiences
7. Kovalam - Kerala's Classic Beach Destination
Kovalam is one of Kerala’s most popular beach destinations, located near Thiruvananthapuram. Famous for its golden sands, swaying coconut palms and beautiful Arabian Sea views, Kovalam is an ideal destination for a relaxing coastal holiday.
The destination is best known for its three crescent-shaped beaches are Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach and Samudra Beach. Visitors can spend their days enjoying the sea, exploring the coastline, trying water activities or simply relaxing at one of the many seaside resorts and cafes.
Top things to do in Kovalam
- Relax at Lighthouse Beach
- Visit Vizhinjam Lighthouse
- Try water activities
- Enjoy an Ayurvedic wellness treatment
- Watch the sunset by the Arabian Sea
8. Kumarakom - A Peaceful Backwater Retreat
Located on the banks of the beautiful Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is one of Kerala's most serene destinations. Surrounded by coconut palms, lush greenery and tranquil waterways, this charming village is perfect for travellers looking to slow down and enjoy the peaceful side of Kerala.
A houseboat cruise through Kumarakom's backwaters offers a wonderful way to experience traditional village life, narrow canals and scenic landscapes. The destination is also known for its bird sanctuary, where visitors can spot a variety of local and migratory birds.
Top things to do in Kumarakom
- Take a backwater cruise
- Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Enjoy a traditional houseboat ride
- Relax at a lakeside resort
- Experience Kerala Ayurvedic therapies
“Kumarakom isn't just a place to cruise through Kerala's backwaters—it is a place to slow down, paddle through quiet canals, taste village flavours and experience life along Vembanad Lake.”
9. Bekal - Forts, Beaches and Coastal Beauty
Located in the Kasaragod district of northern Kerala, Bekal is a beautiful coastal destination known for its historic fort, golden beaches and spectacular Arabian Sea views. The highlight of the region is Bekal Fort, one of Kerala's most impressive and well-preserved forts. Its massive laterite walls and sea-facing location make it a favourite among history lovers and photographers.
Beyond the fort, Bekal offers a peaceful coastal escape with scenic beaches, palm-fringed landscapes and traditional Kerala culture.
Top things to do in Bekal
- Explore Bekal Fort
- Visit Bekal Beach
- Enjoy coastal walks
- Discover nearby temples and villages
- Watch the sunset along the coast
10. Vagamon - A Peaceful Hill Station
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Vagamon is a charming hill station known for its rolling green meadows, mist-covered hills, pine forests and peaceful atmosphere. Away from the crowds of more popular destinations, Vagamon is an excellent choice for travellers looking for a relaxing and scenic escape.
The town is surrounded by three beautiful hills—Thangal Mala, Murugan Mala and Kurisumala—which also reflect the area's diverse religious and cultural heritage. The cool climate and lush landscapes make Vagamon particularly appealing to nature lovers, couples and adventure enthusiasts.
Top things to do in Vagamon
- Explore Vagamon meadows
- Walk through the pine forests
- Try paragliding
- Go trekking
- Visit Vagamon Lake
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the best place to visit in Kerala for the first time?
Munnar, Alleppey, Thekkady, and Kochi are among the best choices for a first Kerala trip. They provide a good introduction to Kerala's tea plantations, wildlife, backwaters, culture, and scenic landscapes.
2. How many days are enough for a Kerala trip?
A 7 to 10-day trip is ideal for experiencing Kerala's major attractions. A longer trip allows you to explore additional destinations such as Wayanad, Varkala, Kumarakom, or Bekal at a relaxed pace.
3. Which is the best hill station in Kerala?
Munnar is one of Kerala's most popular hill stations, famous for its tea plantations, misty mountains, waterfalls, and cool climate. Vagamon and Wayanad are excellent alternatives for travellers seeking quieter and more offbeat experiences.
4. Which place in Kerala is famous for backwaters?
Alleppey (Alappuzha) is particularly famous for its backwaters and traditional houseboats. Kumarakom is another excellent destination for enjoying peaceful backwater cruises along Vembanad Lake.
5. Is Kerala good for a family holiday?
Yes, Kerala is an excellent destination for a family holiday. Families can enjoy houseboat rides, wildlife experiences, waterfalls, beaches, tea plantations, sightseeing, and cultural attractions across the state.
6. Which are the best beaches to visit in Kerala?
Varkala and Kovalam are two of Kerala's most popular beach destinations. Varkala is known for its dramatic cliffs and lively atmosphere, while Kovalam is famous for its scenic beaches and Lighthouse.
7. What is the best place in Kerala for wildlife?
Thekkady is one of the best destinations for wildlife experiences, with the Periyar landscape offering opportunities to explore forests and observe wildlife. Wayanad is another popular choice for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
8. What is Kerala famous for?
Kerala is famous for its backwaters, houseboats, tea plantations, beaches, Ayurvedic traditions, wildlife, spice plantations, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
9. Which is better for a Kerala trip: Munnar or Alleppey?
It depends on your interests. Munnar is ideal for mountains, tea gardens, cool weather, and nature, while Alleppey is better for backwaters and houseboat experiences. If possible, include both in your itinerary.
10. Which is the best place in Kerala for nature lovers?
Wayanad, Munnar, Thekkady, and Vagamon are ideal for nature lovers. These destinations offer forests, mountains, tea and spice plantations, waterfalls, wildlife, and beautiful viewpoints.
