16 Best Heritage Places to visit in Kerala

Kerala is not just about backwaters, beaches, and greenery. It is also a land where history lives in every stone, temple, palace, and street. The state’s past tells stories of kings, traders, artists, and travellers who came from different parts of the world. You can see their influence in the grand temples, ancient forts, old churches, and royal palaces that still stand tall today.

The heritage in Kerala is a beautiful mix of Dravidian architecture, European styles, and ancient trade connections. These heritage places in Kerala are not just historical monuments; they are living memories that take you back hundreds of years. Whether you are a culture lover, a student, a photographer, or just someone who enjoys learning about the past, these historical places of Kerala will fill your heart with wonder and pride.

Let’s begin your journey through the most amazing Kerala heritage sites that showcase the timeless beauty and culture of God’s Own Country.

Table Of Content

Top Heritage Places in Kerala

Kerala is filled with temples, forts, churches, and palaces that tell stories of different rulers and civilizations. Each of these places shows a unique part of Kerala’s history. Here are some of the best heritage places in Kerala you should not miss.

16 Heritage Places In Kerala to Add to Your Travel List

Take a look through the list of age-old monuments and breathtaking ancient places which would make your trip in Kerala a memorable one! 

• The Western Ghats 
• Anchuthengu Fort 
• Krishnapuram Palace
• Thrikkakkudi Rock-Cut Temple 
• St Mary’s Forane Church 
• Pazhassi Raja’s Tomb 
• Thalassery Fort 
• Anantha Padmanabha Temple
• Edakkal Caves 
• Kappad Beach 
• Bekal Fort 
• St. Francis Church 
• Dutch Palace 
• Poonjar Palace 
• Napier Museum
• Aryankavu

1. The Western Ghats 

Also known in the name of Sahyadri, the Western Ghats are the famous mountain range in Kerela, which is spread over an area of 140,000 square kilometres, passing through the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. It is one of the most famous UNESCO heritage sites in Kerala, offering a heavenly view from the mountains, and is home to a large number of national parks, tiger reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, trekking points, and plantations.

Location: Western Ghats, Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala
Timings: NA

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2. Anchuthengu Fort 

Located 32 km from the Trivandrum Central Railway Station, the Anchuthengu fort is also known as the Anjengo Fort. It was the first creation of the East Indian Company in Kerela back in the 16th century. While you are here, admire the architecture of one of the ancient heritage sites in Kerala while standing on the shores of the Anchuthengu beach.

Location: Anchuthengu, Kerala
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

3. Krishnapuram Palace

Once home to Marthanda Varma, the Maharaja of Travancore is now a palace with no origin and age. The ancient palace represents Kerala-like architecture, which looks very intricate and detailed. Today, you will find an archaeological museum with a palace with many wonderful masterpieces. It is one of the many heritage places in Kerala that you can visit for a nice photo session.

Location: Dist, Kayamkulam, Oachira Rd, Near, Krishnapuram, Kerala
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Mondays.

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4. Thrikkakkudi Rock-Cut Temple

The Thrikkakkudi Rock-Cut Temple is one of the top historical places and monuments in Kerala. It is a must-visit for Lord Shiva worshippers. The three-foot-long Shivalinga is protected in a small cave with four walls and attracts worshippers from all around. The remarkable architecture and age-old designs make it a preserved monument by the Archaeological Department.

Location: Pathanamthitta, Thiruvalla, Kerala
Timings: NA

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5. St Mary’s Forane Church

Created in 105 AD, St Mary’s Forane Church tells the tale of Mother Mary, who asked a few children to build a church in the place where it stands today. The church represents the Virgin Mary and a cross inscribed on granite stones. It is worth visiting while you explore some of the best historical places in Kerala and Karnataka.

Location: Kuravilangad Church Junction Kuravilangad Post, Kerala
Timings: 5:30 AM – 8 PM

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6. Pazhassi Raja’s Tomb 

Constructed as the memorial of the ‘Lion of Kerala’, Veera Pazhassi Raja, a descendant of the Kottayam family, the Pazhassi Raja’s Tomb narrates the history of Veera’s cremation after he was shot by the British. You will also find the Pazhassi museum near the sword, which is believed to have been used by Pazhassi Raja.

Location: Mananthavady, Kerala
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM. Closed on Monday.

7. Thalassery Fort 

The Thalassery Fort is another historical sight you will find at the Thalassery town in the Kannur district of Kerala. Under the Archaeological Survey of India, the Thalassery fort attracts plenty of viewers from around Kerala. The fort is square in shape and has large walls inscribed with intricate designs and details. Nearby Thalassery, you will find the Odathil Palli, the Jagannatha temple and Thiruvangadi Sri Rama Swami Temple.

Location: Thalassery New Bus Stand, Near Kanyakumari – Panvel Highway, Pilakool, Thalassery, Kerala
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

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8. Anantha Padmanabha Temple

The Anantha Padmanabha Temple, also known as the Padmanabhaswamy temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Some points to remember while visiting this temple are that it is only made for Hindus and does not allow men with shirts or clothes above the waist. The intricate designs and details are something worthy of being captured in this temple.

Location: West Nada, Fort, East Fort, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Timings: 4:15 AM to 11:45 AM & 5:15 PM to 7:30 PM.

9. Edakkal Caves

Located on the top of Ambukutty Mala near Ambalavalayal in Wayanad are Edakkal Caves, two natural caves known for their heritage importance. The caves, located at an altitude of 4000 feet, were discovered by Fred Fawcett in 1890 during his hunting trip. The name ‘Edakkal’ means ‘a stone in between’ and is quite an amazing place to visit. The views of the hills of Wayanad and surrounding peaks are nothing less than marvellous.

Location: Nenmeni, Kerala
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM

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10. Kappad Beach 

Kappad Beach is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Kerala and is one of the most charming beaches in Kerala. In 1498, Vasco da Gama landed on Indian soil at Kappad Beach along with 170 men, and a monument commemorating that event is on the beach. This marked the beginning of an era of new relationships between the Indians and the Portuguese. The beach is the perfect place to relax and play around.

Location: Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: NA

11. Bekal Fort

Situated in Bekal, Kerala, the Bekal Fort stands tall along the shores of the Arabian Sea. It is the biggest fort in Kerala; it is so huge that it covers 40 acres of land. The fort is said to be more than 300 years old. It was built by Sivappa Naik of the Ikkeri dynasty during the 1650s.

Location: Kasaragod Road, PO Bekal Fort, Beside Bekal Fort Railway Station Dist, Bekal, Kerala
Timings: 8 AM to 5.30 PM

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12. St. Francis Church 

St. Francis Church is famous for being the first European Church built in India. It is located on Parade Road and was originally called Santo Antonio, the Patron Saint of Portugal. The church reflects the history and struggle of Europeans in India from 15th to 20th Century. Originally, the church was made of wood but was later rebuilt in stone.

Location: Head Post Office, Saint Francis Church Road Opp, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala
Timings: 7 AM to 6.30 PM

13. Dutch Palace 

Dutch Palace or Mattancherry Palace is a palace built by the Portuguese and gifted to the Raja of Kochi in 1555 AD. It is located in Mattancherry near the Jewish Synagogue. In 1663, the palace took the Dutch name as the Dutch carried out renovations and extensions.

Location: Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

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14. Poonjar Palace 

The Poonjar Rajas built Poonjar Palace and is approximately 600 years old. The Poonjar Palace is made out of wood and the architecture of the palace is reminiscent of Kerala’s tradition. The Palace houses a museum that showcases a collection of exquisite furniture, a boat carved out of a single piece of wood, chandeliers, lamps, sculptures and more.

Location: Poonjar Palace, Panachippara, Poonjar, Kerala
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM

15. Napier Museum

If you are a lover of art and architecture, then you are going to love visiting the Napier Museum. It is one of the best museums in Kerala. Built in the Anglo-Saracen architectural style, the Gothic roof and minarets are imposing. Admire the bronze idols, stone carvings, ancient ornaments, and artefacts on display. You will also find beautiful artwork and paintings by renowned artists like Nicholas Roerich and Raja Ravi Verma. 

Location: Napier Museum Rd, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
Timings: 10 am–4:45 pm most days, 1–4:45 pm on Wednesdays, and closed on Mondays

16. Aryankavu

Aryankavu is one of the most spiritual heritage places in Kerala. It is widely known for its temple dedicated to Lord Sastha. What fascinates the travellers are the mural paintings hanging on the pillars and walls. The Mandala Puja organized in December makes Aryankavu one of the famous Kerala tourist places. Apart from this, travelers can also visit Palavari waterfalls which is situated 5 km from Aryankavu is another attraction.

Location: Aryankavu, Kollam, Kerala
Timings: NA

Offbeat & Lesser-Known Heritage Spots in Kerala

Apart from the well-known tourist attractions, Kerala also has many hidden places that are rich in history, art, and culture. These spots may not be very famous, but they show the real heritage and traditions of the state. Visiting them helps you see how Kerala’s past is still alive in its buildings, temples, and crafts.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, Thiruvananthapuram

This palace is one of the best examples of Kerala’s traditional architecture. It is also known as the “Palace of Horses” because the wooden roof is decorated with 122 beautiful carvings of horses. The palace was built by King Swathi Thirunal, who was not only a ruler but also a great lover of music and art. Inside the museum, you can see royal furniture, old paintings, musical instruments, and other personal belongings of the royal family. Each room tells a story about the lifestyle and creativity of the Travancore kings.

Nilambur Teak Museum, Malappuram

The Nilambur Teak Museum is special because it is the first museum in the world that is fully dedicated to teak wood. It gives visitors an idea of how important teak was to Kerala’s economy and history. The museum displays different varieties of teak, its uses, and its connection with Kerala’s forests. It also shows how teak wood was exported during ancient times and how it became a symbol of quality and strength. For anyone interested in nature or history, this museum gives a unique learning experience.

Thalassery Fort, Kannur

Thalassery Fort is one of the main reminders of British rule in Kerala. It was built by the British East India Company in the 18th century to protect their trade interests. The fort stands near the sea and gives a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea. Its walls and gates are still strong and well-preserved. A walk around the fort helps you imagine how trade, politics, and wars shaped Kerala’s coastal history. The nearby area also has old churches and colonial buildings that add to the heritage charm.

Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad

Thirunelli Temple is an ancient and peaceful temple located among green forests and mountains. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to be more than a thousand years old. The temple is built in traditional Kerala style, using stones and wood. A river called Papanasini flows near the temple, and devotees believe that taking a dip in this river can wash away one’s sins. The calm atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and spiritual feeling make it a special place for both pilgrims and travellers who love history and nature.

Aranmula Heritage Village, Pathanamthitta

Aranmula is a small but culturally rich village on the banks of the Pamba River. It is known for its famous Aranmula Mirror, a special handmade metal mirror called “Aranmula Kannadi.” These mirrors are made using a secret traditional method that has been passed down through generations of craftsmen. Aranmula also becomes very lively during the Onam festival, when the grand snake boat races take place. These races, along with the traditional art forms and local crafts, show the vibrant spirit of Kerala’s heritage.

These lesser-known heritage places may not appear on every travel list, but they give a deeper understanding of Kerala’s culture and traditions. Each site has its own story, from royal palaces and ancient temples to forts and craft villages. Exploring them helps you see that Kerala’s history is not just in museums but in its people, their skills, and their way of life.

Heritage Circuits & Cultural Trails

Kerala’s culture is best explored through planned heritage trails. These routes connect temples, forts, palaces, and ports that share a common history. Travelling along these circuits lets you explore both famous and hidden heritage places in Kerala.

• Central Kerala Trail: Kochi → Thrissur → Palakkad → Guruvayur – This route offers a mix of royal palaces, ancient temples, and colonial forts.
• Malabar Heritage Circuit: Kozhikode → Kannur → Kasaragod – Perfect for those who love coastal forts, old markets, and traditional art forms.
• South Kerala Heritage Route: Thiruvananthapuram → Kollam → Alleppey → Kottayam – Combines beaches, palaces, and sacred temples.
• Ancient Trade Route (Muziris Trail): Kodungallur → Paravur → Fort Kochi → Mattancherry – Retrace the path of ancient spice traders.

Each route brings alive the heritage in Kerala in its own special way.

Cultural & Heritage Festivals in Kerala

Kerala’s heritage is not only found in its ancient buildings, temples, and palaces; it also lives through its colourful festivals and traditional art forms. These festivals are an important part of the state’s culture. They show how people in Kerala celebrate their history, beliefs, and community spirit. For visitors, these celebrations are the best way to feel the real heart of Kerala, full of joy, music, and togetherness.

Thrissur Pooram: Known as the biggest and most famous temple festival in Kerala, Thrissur Pooram is a grand celebration that takes place in Thrissur. The highlight of this festival is the majestic parade of beautifully decorated elephants carrying golden ornaments. You can also hear the powerful beats of traditional drums (chenda melam) and watch vibrant fireworks lighting up the sky at night. Thousands of people gather to witness this festival, making it one of the most energetic cultural events in South India.

Onam: Onam is Kerala’s most loved festival and is celebrated by people of all religions. It marks the return of the mythical King Mahabali and also celebrates the harvest season. During Onam, houses are decorated with beautiful flower carpets called Pookkalam. Families prepare and enjoy a grand vegetarian feast known as Onam Sadya, served on banana leaves. There are also cultural games, dances like Thiruvathira, and boat races. The whole state comes alive with colours, joy, and unity during this time.

Theyyam: Theyyam is one of the oldest ritual art forms of North Kerala, especially popular in the Kannur and Kasaragod districts. It is not just a dance or performance — it is a spiritual ritual where performers dress up as divine beings using bright makeup, huge headgear, and colourful costumes. Each Theyyam represents a story from local legends and is believed to bring blessings to the people. Watching Theyyam is like stepping into Kerala’s ancient traditions and beliefs.

Kathakali & Mohiniyattam: These are Kerala’s most famous classical dance forms, known for their beauty and storytelling style.

• Kathakali is a traditional dance-drama where performers wear elaborate costumes, painted faces, and headgear. The stories are mostly taken from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The dance uses strong facial expressions, hand gestures, and music to tell the story.
• Mohiniyattam, on the other hand, is a graceful dance performed mostly by women. It has soft movements and expressions that reflect love and devotion. Both these dance forms are important parts of Kerala’s cultural identity.

Vallam Kali (Boat Races): Vallam Kali, also known as the snake boat race, is one of the most thrilling and traditional sports in Kerala. These races are held during the Onam season in the backwaters, especially in places like Alappuzha. Long wooden boats, rowed by dozens of men in perfect rhythm, glide through the water as crowds cheer them on. The races symbolise teamwork, unity, and the community spirit of Kerala’s people.

Together, these festivals and art forms show how deeply connected Kerala’s people are to their roots. They express love, faith, and pride in their culture. Whether it’s the grand celebrations like Thrissur Pooram or the graceful performances of Mohiniyattam, each event tells a story of Kerala’s rich past and living traditions.

Best Time to Visit Heritage Sites in Kerala

The best time to visit heritage sites in Kerala is from October to March. The weather stays cool and pleasant, perfect for exploring forts, temples, and palaces comfortably without heat or rain.

Travel Tips for Heritage Travellers

Exploring Kerala heritage sites becomes more enjoyable when you travel smart. Here are some simple tips:

• Dress modestly: Many temples and churches have dress codes. Wearing traditional or simple clothes is respectful.
• Follow photography rules: Some religious sites do not allow photography inside; always check before clicking pictures.
• Hire local guides: They can explain stories and facts you won’t find in books.
• Combine heritage with nature: Pair your heritage trip with a visit to Kerala’s backwaters, hills, or beaches for a complete experience.
• Ideal trip duration: Spend at least 6–10 days to cover major historical places of Kerala without rushing.

Where to Stay Near Heritage Sites

Kerala offers many beautiful places to stay that blend comfort with history. You can choose from palaces, homestays, and eco-resorts that reflect the state’s heritage.

• Heritage Homestays in Fort Kochi: Stay in restored colonial mansions turned boutique stays. Wake up to the sound of church bells and sea breeze.
• Palace-Style Resorts in Tripunithura & Alappuzha: Live like royalty in palaces converted into luxury hotels.
• Eco & Royal Heritage Stays in Wayanad & Thekkady: Enjoy forest views, traditional Kerala food, and eco-friendly living.
• Budget Lodges near Forts and Museums: Perfect for families and students exploring on a budget.

These stays make your visit to world heritage sites in Kerala even more special.

Plan Your Kerala Heritage Tour with Travel Triangle

If you want to explore Kerala’s royal palaces, old forts, and spiritual temples without any stress, TravelTriangle is your perfect travel partner.

Our heritage tour packages are made for all types of travellers families, students, couples, and solo explorers. Each trip is planned with care so that you can enjoy the true essence of heritage in Kerala.

What You Get with Travel Triangle:

• Tailored itineraries covering temples, forts, palaces, and ports.
• Knowledgeable local guides who share interesting stories and legends.
• Combo tours that mix heritage with backwaters or beach fun.
• Flexible stays, private transport, and 24×7 on-trip support.

Explore Kerala Heritage Tour Packages with Travel Triangle today and walk through history while enjoying modern comfort.

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These were the ancient heritage places in Kerala that provided their visitors with rich cultural tales and remarkable architecture. Add these to your list, and make sure to visit all these age-old places on your trip to Kerala. Happy Traveling!

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