top 10 most beautiful tourist places that you must visit in kerala

Lush green tea plantations, serene winding backwaters and spice plantations are a few features that define Kerala as one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Popular as ‘God’s Own Country’ Kerala is a haven for travellers who come here to unwind in the salubrious climes, away from the concrete jungle. In a state where the topography ranges from cool hills to balmy sea beaches, Kerala is a sight for sore eyes. Here is a list of places which are a ‘must-see’ for all those visiting this tropical paradise.

1. Kochi – Gateway to Kerala

The Queen of Arabian Sea, Cochin is one of the top places to see in Kerala. The coastal city has a legacy of history that traces back to the first colonialists who landed on the shores. Beaches, Museums, Churches, modern tourist delights, there is so much for travelers to explore. The multi-ethnic heritage of the city is reflected in its tourist sights, food, shopping and every aspect of the town.

Best Tourist Attraction in Cochin

• Vypeen Island Zone
• Fort Kochi, one of oldest heritage sites in Kerala
• Paradesi Synagogue, ancient place of worship for Jews
• The beautiful stretch of Marine Drive overlooking the Arabian Sea
• Santa Cruz Basilica
• Chinese Fishing Nets
• Mattancherry Palace also known as Dutch Palace
• Kerala Folklore Museum
• Vallarpadam Church
• Museum of Kerala History
• Kerala Kathakali Centre
• Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
• Cochin Port Maritime Heritage Museum
• Bastion Bungalow

Best time to visit

August to February, while the weather is pleasant

How to reach

Nearest Airport– Kochi International Airport, 12 km from city centre.
Nearest Railway Station– Ernakulam Railway Station in the city.

Where to stay: Aranya Nivas, Springdale heritage resort or Michael’s Inn which are available within the range of 1500-3500 INR/Per night* and guarantee a comfortable stay.

2. Alleppey- India’s Own version of Venice

India’s Own Venice, the picturesque town of Alleppey is known for the unique natural spectacle of backwaters. The emerald landscape can be best enjoyed on a houseboat cruise. Experience a secluded holiday on your houseboat with natural bliss for company. Ayurveda, sightseeing and adventures adds to the pleasure of time spent here. Relax in the rejuvenating ambiance, it is one of the places in Kerala you must not miss on your holiday.

Best Tourist Attractions in Alappuzha

• Alappuzha Beach
• Krishnapuram Palace
• Marari Beach, home to local fishermen and their villages
• Revi Karunakaran Museum
• Marari Beach
• Punnamada Lake
• Pathiramanal Island
• Sri Krishna Temple in Ambalappuzha
• The Snake Boat Race in Alleppey is another crowd puller.

Best time to visit

August to February enjoys the perfect weather conditions to plan your trip to Kerala. While, the second Saturday of August is the occasion of the annual snake boat race competition, also known as Nehru Boat Race.

How to reach

Nearest Airport– Kochi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station– Alleppey Railway Station

Where to stay: For a luxurious experience, you could rent a houseboat such as The Tharangini House Boat, JCT House boat or Cosy Houseboats available for 6,500 INR/Per night* and above. If you’d rather stay grounded, The Ramada Alleppey, Citrus retreats and Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Hotel are great hotels available within the range of 3000-7000 INR/ Per night*.

3. Wayanad- Prettiest Place

Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Western Ghats, Wayanad is one of the popular travel destination for nature lovers. The district is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, therefore perfect to spend time with nature and indulge in adventures. The emerald beauty of the hills, the mists clouding the roads, thundering waterfalls, uninhibited wildlife, will welcome you to God’s Own Country. Trekking is the lure for adventure enthusiasts whereas honeymoon couples are enchanted by the charming treehouses.

Best Tourist Attractions in Wayanad

• Wayanad wildlife sanctuary
• Chembra peak, one of the highest peaks in the region
• Heart shaped lake, enroute the trek to Chembra Peak
• Meenmutty Falls
• Ayurveda Yoga Villa
• Edakkal caves, pre-historic caves that are one of the oldest in the world
• Kuruwadeep, island on the Kabini River, also a popular eco-spot
• Banasura Sagar Dam
• Wayanad Heritage Museum
• Kanthapara Waterfalls
• Karapuzha Dam
• Muthanga Wildlife Safari
• Grassroots for a true treehouse stay

Best time to visit

October to May

How to reach

Nearest airport– Kozhikode Airport, 100km
Nearest Railway Station– Kozhikode Railway Station, 110 km.

Where to stay: Vyithiri Village, Upavan Resort, The Woods Wayanad and Wayanad Silver Woods Resort are hotels which are available at 2500-6500 INR/Per night* and they ensure you have a comfortable stay.

4. Kumarakom- Haven of Backwaters and Birds

Set on the shores of the serene Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a picturesque town. The network of waters, the abode of birds, sleepy villages and the abundance of heritage resorts offering Ayurveda make it one of the top places to visit in Kerala. Go cruising on the houseboat, enjoy the Ayurvedic treatments and spot birds in their natural habitat. The tranquil ambiance is perfect for relaxing vacations. Kumarakom is one of the top reasons for holidays in Kerala being favored by travelers and honeymoon couples from around the world.

Best Tourist Attractions in Kumarakom

• Kumarakom Beach
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, one of the best bird watching spots in India
• Vembanad Lake
• Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls
• Bay Island Driftwood Museum
• Pathiramanal Island, haven of birds, especially the migratory ones.

Best time to visit

August to February offer the best experiences of holiday in Kerala. Monsoon, the months between July and September is the best time to enjoy Ayurveda sessions.

How to reach

Nearest Airport– Kochi International Airport at a distance of 119 km
Nearest Railway Station– Kottayam Railway Station, 15 km away

5. Kovalam- Sand, Surf and Sea

Kovalam is one of the beautiful, fun and relaxing beach destinations in India. The popular tourist destination in Kerala is home to a number of luxury accommodations and many Ayurveda massage centers. Spend time walking along the sandy shores, indulge in watersports, get a luxurious massage, and relish delicious sea food. The serene ambiance of the beach is just perfect for a long relaxed day. The pleasant weather add more charm to this little piece of paradise. The beach lures families, honeymoon couples and even solo backpackers seeking to enjoy the sand, sea and surf.

Tourist Attractions at Kovalam Beach

• Lighthouse beach with the ancient lighthouse
• Hawah beach
• Samudra Beach
• Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort
• Karamani River
• Vellayani Lake
• Halcyon Castle
• Valiyathura Pier
• Vizhinjam Village
• Surya Samudra Kovalam, one of the popular resorts to indulge in Ayurveda treatments.

Best time to visit

August to February, while

How to reach

Nearest Airport– Trivandrum International Airport, 25 km away.
Nearest Railway Station– Trivandrum Railway Station, almost at a distance of 25 km.

Where to stay: Beach Hotel De Tour Neelakantha, Hotel Samudra KTDC and Vivanta by Taj Green Cove and hotels available at 1500-7000 INR/Per night*.

6. Thekkady – Land of the Wild and Spices

Set in the midst of picturesque natural beauty, Thekkady in the Western Ghats of Kerala is known for the hub of wildlife adventure. The Periyar National Park in the area is a major tourist destination for wildlife lovers. Set in the captivating locales of Thekkady, nature has blessed the lands with abundant of flora, fauna and adventure. The Periyar Lake set in the national park is particularly of interest. Wildlife safaris on boats are only available here. Spot Elephants, Tigers, rare species of birds and other animals unique in the Western Ghats.

Best Tourist Attractions in Thekkady

• Wildlife safari on the top of elephants as well as on jeep
• Boat safari on the Periyar Lake aboard a bamboo raft
• Jungle patrolling and nature walks
• Visit to spice plantations of Thekkady,
• Stay at homestays and eco-friendly resorts.

Best time to visit

All through the year, the weather conditions are perfect to visit this part of Kerala. Even wildlife safari does not close for the monsoon, whereas becomes all the more special after rains.

How to reach

Nearest Airport– Kochi International Airport, 160 km away.
Nearest Railway Station- Kottayam Railway Station at a distance of 114 km.

Where to stay: Aranya Nivas, Springdale heritage resort or Michael’s Inn which are available within the range of 1500-3500 INR/Per night* and guarantee a comfortable stay.

7. Kozhikode – Charming Beauty with Ancient Legacy

 

Originally known as Calicut, Kozhikode is famous for its inherent natural beauty, culture, historical sites, educational institutions, and culinary experiences. The town has played a very important role in shaping up the colonial era of India. The Dutch and the British colonial era have left strong influence on the city. Named among the best places to visit in Kerala, Kozhikode is known for its authentic Malabar food. The cuisines are definitely mouthwatering and must be given a try. Kozhikode has everything what one requires to make it a perfect holiday.

Best Tourist Attractions in Kozhikode

• Mananchira
• Conolly Canal
• Hilite Mall
• Kallayi, Tali Temple
• Kappad Beach
• Kozhikode Beach
• Thusharagiri Waterfalls
• Sargaalaya
• Payyoli Beach
• Kozhippara Falls
• Matri Dei Cathedral

Best time to visit

August to February is a good time to plan your trip.

How to reach

Nearest Airport– Kozhikode International Airport in the city.
Nearest Railway Station– The city is connected with frequent connections plying at Kozhikode Railway Station.

Where to stay: Renai Kappad beach resort, The Taviz Resort and Spa and Park Residency at Ramanattukara are hotels available within 1400-4000 INR/per night*

8. Thiruvananthapuram- City Of Lord Padmanabhaswamy

The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. Built on seven hills, the pleasant city offers interesting sights that are worth a look. It is a historic as well as the cultural hub of the state in addition to being a modern metropolis. There are many tourist attractions in the city, including temples, gardens, palaces, museums, beaches, backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries and many more.

Best Tourist Attractions in Thiruvananthapuram

• The goldenShri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, revered temple of the city after which it gets its name
• The historic wooden Puthe Maliga Palace
• The Napier Museum
• Natural History Museum and art gallery
• Pray at the holy Attukal Temple
• Kowdiar Palace
• Vellayani Lake
• Palkulangara Devi Temple
• Veli Lake and Tourist Village
• Beach and Lake Ayurvedic Resort to bask in the bliss of authentic Ayurveda treatments.

Best time to visit

September to March is the best time to plan a visit.

How to reach

Nearest Airport – Trivandrum International Airport, 11 km from the city centre
Nearest Railway Station – Trivandrum Railway Station in the city with frequent connections all over India.

Where to stay: Fortune Hotel The South Park, Classic Sarovar Portico, Hotel Galaxy Inn and Vivanta by Taj fall in the range of 500- 6000 INR/Per night*. These hotels provide access to all facilities along with great service.

9. Munnar- Best for one day trip

Munnar is a beautiful hill station in God’s Own Country. Situated at an altitude of 1600 m, on the confluence of Muthirapuzha, Kundala and Nallathanni Rivers. It is one of the best places for holiday in Kerala, favored by honeymoon couples from all over the globe. In fact Munnar is voted among the best romantic places in the world. Lush sprawling tea plantations, aromatic spice plantations, lovely lakes, mountain streams at Agasthyakoodam, rolling hills, etc. make it truly a wonderful destination.

Best Tourist Attractions in Munnar

• Eravikulam National Park, the exclusive home of Nilgiri Tahr in the lush Western Ghats
• Mattupetty Dam
• Anamudi Peak
• Tea Museum
• Attukal Waterfalls
• Cheeyappara Waterfalls
• Top Station
• Marayoor Dolmens
• Indo Swiss Dairy Farm
• Kundala Lake
• Lockhart Gap
• Trekking, cycling, mountain biking, mountaineering, etc.

Best time to visit

All throughout the year as the charming hills have their own magical bliss throughout the year.

How to reach

Nearest Airport– Kochi International Airport at a distance of 132 km
Nearest Railway Station– Aluva Railway Station, 120 km away.

Where to stay: Misty mountain resorts, Munnar Terrace Greens and Fort Munnar provide rooms at 3000-5000 INR/Per night*.

10. Varkala – Quaint Hamlet by the Sea

When it comes to the unrivalled bliss of Kerala, it’s not fair to not talk about Varkala, one of of the best beach destinations in India. Set along the shores of Arabian Sea, the beauty takes your breath away. The quietude of the beach is noteworthy. Soft sands are lined by lush palm groves and playful waves. Varkala is quite away from the throngs of tourists and is one of the serene locales. Get an Ayurvedic massage on one of the beach centres and you will be revitalized.

Tourist Attractions at Varkala Beach

• A hot spring with medicinal properties
• Papanasam beach
• Janardhana Swamy Temple
• Seafood restaurants
• Ayurvedic beach centres
• Sivagiri Mutt
• Anchengo Fort & Lighthouse

Best time to visit

October to February, while monsoon is the perfect time to stay at one of the Ayurvedic resorts in India.

How to reach

Nearest Airport– Trivandrum International Airport, 44 km away.
Nearest Railway Station– Varakala Railway Station in the city. Also, close by is Kollam railway station.