Kerala, fondly known as “God’s Own Country,” is one of India’s most beautiful travel destinations. From mist-covered hill stations and peaceful backwaters to palm-fringed beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, historic towns, and vibrant cultural traditions, Kerala offers something for every kind of traveller.
Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, an adventure trip, or a relaxing holiday, the Best of Kerala promises unforgettable experiences.
Why Visit Kerala?
Kerala stands out because of its incredible variety. Within a relatively small geographical area, travellers can experience mountains, forests, rivers, beaches, lagoons, plantations, and historic cities.
The state is also famous for its distinctive cuisine, traditional Ayurveda treatments, Kathakali performances, colourful festivals, and warm hospitality.
Some of the experiences that make Kerala special include:
- Cruising through the tranquil backwaters
- Staying overnight on a traditional houseboat
- Exploring tea plantations in Munnar
- Watching elephants in the wild
- Relaxing on Kerala’s tropical beaches
- Enjoying authentic Kerala cuisine
- Experiencing traditional Kathakali performances
- Discovering ancient temples and historic towns
- Enjoying an Ayurvedic wellness treatment
1. Munnar – The Land of Tea Gardens
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is one of Kerala’s most popular hill stations. The destination is surrounded by rolling hills, endless tea plantations, waterfalls, forests, and cool mountain air.
A walk through the tea estates offers spectacular views, while viewpoints around Munnar provide excellent opportunities for photography.
Things to do in Munnar
- Visit tea plantations and tea museums
- Explore Eravikulam National Park
- See the famous Neelakurinji when it blooms
- Visit Mattupetty Dam
- Enjoy the views from Top Station
- Explore nearby waterfalls
- Go trekking through the Western Ghats
Munnar is particularly attractive to couples and nature lovers looking for a peaceful escape.
2. Alleppey – Experience Kerala’s Backwaters
Alappuzha (Alleppey) is synonymous with Kerala’s famous backwaters. A houseboat cruise through the network of lakes, canals, and lagoons is one of the experiences every first-time visitor should consider.
Traditional Kerala houseboats, locally known as kettuvallams, have been transformed into comfortable floating accommodations.
As the boat moves slowly through the waterways, travellers can watch village life, coconut plantations, paddy fields, fishermen, and colourful local houses along the banks.
Best backwater experiences
- Overnight houseboat stay
- Sunset cruise
- Traditional Kerala meals on board
- Canoeing through narrow canals
- Exploring nearby villages
- Photography along the backwaters
3. Kumarakom – A Peaceful Backwater Escape
Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom offers a quieter alternative to Alleppey.
The destination is known for its peaceful waterways, lush landscapes, luxury resorts, and birdlife. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is popular among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Kumarakom is an excellent choice for travellers who want to combine a backwater experience with relaxation and wellness.
4. Thekkady – Wildlife and Adventure
For wildlife lovers, Thekkady is one of Kerala’s most exciting destinations.
The area is home to Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can explore the forests and surrounding landscapes while looking for elephants, deer, birds, and other wildlife.
Things to do in Thekkady
- Wildlife spotting
- Boat trips on Periyar Lake
- Bamboo rafting
- Nature walks
- Spice plantation tours
- Trekking
- Cultural performances
Thekkady is also famous for Kerala’s spice plantations, where visitors can learn about cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and other spices.
5. Wayanad – Mountains, Forests and Waterfalls
Located in northern Kerala, Wayanad is a beautiful destination for travellers who enjoy nature and adventure.
The region is covered with forests, mountains, plantations, caves, waterfalls, and scenic valleys. Its relatively peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent destination away from the state’s busier tourist centres.
Places to explore in Wayanad
- Edakkal Caves
- Soochipara Falls
- Banasura Sagar Dam
- Chembra Peak
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Pookode Lake
Trekking, camping, wildlife experiences, and plantation stays are among the most popular activities here.
6. Kochi – Where History Meets Modern Kerala
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is one of Kerala’s most fascinating cities. Its history reflects centuries of trade and interaction between India and different parts of the world.
The historic neighbourhood of Fort Kochi is particularly popular for its colonial architecture, artistic atmosphere, cafés, galleries, and famous Chinese fishing nets.
Places to visit in Kochi
- Fort Kochi
- Mattancherry Palace
- Jew Town
- St. Francis Church
- Chinese fishing nets
- Marine Drive
- Kerala Folklore Museum
Kochi is often the starting point for Kerala tours because of its airport, transport connections, and proximity to several major attractions.
7. Kovalam – Kerala’s Beach Paradise
If beaches are part of your holiday plans, Kovalam should be on your Kerala itinerary.
Located near Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam is famous for its beautiful coastline, palm trees, seaside resorts, and relaxing atmosphere.
The iconic lighthouse overlooking the coast is one of the area’s most recognizable landmarks.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Beach walks
- Swimming where conditions are safe
- Sunrise and sunset views
- Ayurvedic treatments
- Seafood
- Water activities
8. Varkala – Cliffs, Beaches and Spirituality
Varkala is famous for its dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. The combination of beaches, cafés, shops, wellness centres, and spectacular sunsets makes it one of Kerala’s most appealing coastal destinations.
The Varkala Cliff is particularly beautiful during sunset, when the Arabian Sea takes on golden shades.
Varkala is also an important pilgrimage destination, with Janardhana Swamy Temple attracting devotees from different parts of India.
9. Thiruvananthapuram – Culture and Heritage
Kerala’s capital, Thiruvananthapuram, offers a fascinating combination of culture, history, architecture, and modern city life.
The city is best known for the magnificent Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of India’s most famous temples.
Other attractions include museums, palaces, art galleries, parks, and nearby beaches.
10. Bekal – Fort by the Arabian Sea
Located in northern Kerala, Bekal is famous for its spectacular fort overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Bekal Fort is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala. Its location beside the sea makes it particularly photogenic.
The destination is ideal for travellers interested in history, architecture, beaches, and scenic landscapes.
Kerala’s Famous Cuisine
No trip to Kerala is complete without trying its traditional food.
Kerala cuisine is known for its use of coconut, curry leaves, spices, seafood, and aromatic flavours.
Some dishes worth trying include:
- Kerala Sadya
- Appam with stew
- Puttu and kadala curry
- Malabar biryani
- Kerala parotta
- Karimeen pollichathu
- Fish curry
- Banana chips
- Payasam
A traditional Sadya, served on a banana leaf, is one of the best ways to experience Kerala’s culinary heritage.
Ayurveda and Wellness in Kerala
Kerala is internationally known for its traditional Ayurvedic practices.
Many resorts and wellness centres offer treatments, massages, yoga sessions, meditation, and wellness programmes inspired by Ayurveda.
For travellers looking for relaxation and rejuvenation, combining a Kerala sightseeing trip with a wellness stay can make the holiday even more memorable.
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Kerala can be visited throughout much of the year, but the best time depends on the type of experience you want.
October to February
This is generally considered one of the most comfortable periods for sightseeing. The weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring hill stations, beaches, cities, and backwaters.
March to May
Summer can be warm, particularly in the plains and coastal areas. Hill stations such as Munnar and Wayanad can provide a more comfortable escape.
June to September
The monsoon transforms Kerala into a lush green paradise. Rain can be heavy, but travellers interested in greenery, Ayurveda, photography, and a quieter holiday may enjoy this season.
Suggested 7-Day Kerala Itinerary
If you are visiting Kerala for the first time, a week-long itinerary could include:
Day 1: Kochi – Fort Kochi sightseeing
Day 2: Kochi to Munnar
Day 3: Explore Munnar
Day 4: Munnar to Thekkady
Day 5: Thekkady to Alleppey
Day 6: Houseboat and backwater experience
Day 7: Alleppey to Kochi and departure
Travellers with more time can extend the trip to include Wayanad, Kumarakom, Varkala, Kovalam, or Bekal.
Travel Tips for Kerala
- Carry light cotton clothing for coastal areas.
- Carry a light jacket if visiting Munnar or Wayanad.
- Keep rain protection handy during the monsoon.
- Book popular houseboats and hotels in advance during peak season.
- Respect local customs when visiting temples.
- Try local cuisine instead of limiting your meals to familiar dishes.
- Keep some time free for relaxation rather than packing every day with sightseeing.
- Check local weather and travel conditions before heading into forests or hill areas.
Final Thoughts
Kerala is more than just a holiday destination. It is a combination of landscapes, traditions, food, history, wildlife, wellness, and unforgettable experiences.
From the tea-covered hills of Munnar and the backwaters of Alleppey to the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, the forests of Thekkady and Wayanad, and the historic streets of Kochi, every part of Kerala offers a different experience.
Whether you have three days or two weeks, Kerala has enough variety to create a memorable journey. Pack your bags, slow down, and discover why Kerala truly deserves its title as God’s Own Country.
