Top 12 Places to Visit in Kerala: Your Ultimate Guide For Families, Couples & Solo Travellers

Once you step into Kerala, you’ll know why it is called God’s Own Country. With endless coconut trees, green hills, calm backwaters, golden beaches, and food full of flavour, this land has something for everyone. From spotting wildlife in deep forests, walking through tea gardens, and staying in treehouses, to gliding on houseboats, every moment feels like a new experience in this spice-scented paradise.

You can lose yourself in the misty hills of Munnar, soak in the coastal beauty of Kochi, drift through the backwaters of Alleppey, feel the wild side at Thekkady, or breathe in the fresh mountain air of Wayanad. Wherever you go, Kerala makes you slow down, smile, and collect memories with your loved ones.

Why Visit Kerala?

Kerala has everything you dream of on a holiday. It is full of greenery, backwaters, tea plantations, hills, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches.

• You can enjoy colourful dance shows like Kathakali and martial arts like Kalaripayattu, along with traditional music and local festivals.
• Kerala food is full of flavour, containing a mix of spices and coconut. Don’t miss dishes like appam, fish curry, and banana chips.
• Kerala is famous for Ayurvedic massages and treatments, which help you relax and feel healthy again.
• You can visit forests, go on wildlife safaris, or try bamboo rafting, trekking, and boating in places like Thekkady and Wayanad.
• Enjoy houseboat rides in Alleppey or watch the sunset at quiet beaches like Varkala, which is perfect for couples and families. 

Top 12 Must-Visit Places in Kerala for First-Time Visitors

Be it a honeymoon, a family vacation, or just a much-needed break from city chaos, Kerala welcomes you with open arms. So pack your bags, and get ready as we’re about to take you through 12 Best places to visit in Kerala that deserve a spot on your bucket list, along with tips to plan your perfect trip.

• Munnar 

If you love mountains, cool air, and endless green views, Munnar is your place. With tea gardens, misty mornings, and spots like Mattupetty Dam and Eravikulam National Park, this hill station is where nature feels alive.

• Best time to visit: August to March
• Distance from airport and railway station: Cochin International Airport (110 km away) and Aluva Railway Station (108 km away)
• Ideal stay budget: Budget-friendly homestays and small hotels. INR 1200 to INR 2000 per night.
• Tip: Neelakurinji flowers bloom once every 12 years between August and October and are worth visiting.

• Alleppey 

Alleppey, known as the ‘Venice of the East,’ is the heart of Kerala’s backwaters. Here, life moves slowly on the water. You can stay on a houseboat, watch palm trees swaying along the canals, and enjoy the peaceful sound of water all around you.

• Best time to visit: September to March and April to May
• Distance from airport and railway station: Cochin International Airport (78 km away) and Alleppey Railway Station (5 km away).
• Ideal stay budget: Budget and luxury boats, starting from 8000 – 2pax per night onwards. 
• Tip: Must watch the Snake Boat Race in August

• Thekkady

If you love wildlife, Thekkady is the perfect spot. Watch elephants in their natural habitat, take a peaceful boat ride on Periyar Lake, or explore the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to tigers, deer, and many rare birds. Families can also enjoy cultural shows like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu, visit spice gardens, or go for bamboo rafting and forest treks. With so many exciting things to do, Thekkady is one of the best places in Kerala for a short family getaway.

• Best time to visit: October to February
• Distance from airport and railway station: Madurai Airport (136 km away) and Kottayam Railway Station (114 km away)
• Ideal stay budget: options include resorts, hotels, homestays, and plantation stays. INR 1300 to INR 2000 per night.
• Tip: Make sure to visit the spice plantation around Kumily town in Thekkady

• Kochi 

Kochi is a city where history and modern life come together. In Fort Kochi, you can walk through streets lined with old colonial buildings and feel the city’s heritage. Spend a day or two here before moving on to places like Munnar or Alleppey. Visit Mattancherry Palace, Cherai Beach, Marine Drive, and St. Francis Church—perfect spots for a short and fun trip in Kerala.

• Best time to visit: November to March
• Distance from airport and railway station: Cochin International Airport (40 km), Kochi Railway Station (13 km). INR 1000 to INR 1800 per night.
• Ideal stay budget: Budget hotels and guesthouses, with options for luxury stays
• Tip: Try the famous Kerala seafood at the local markets of Kochi.

• Wayanad  

Wayanad is where nature and adventure meet. With misty mountains, deep valleys, and hidden waterfalls, every corner feels like a discovery. Trek through the famous Edakkal Caves, climb up to Chembra Peak, or just sit back under the stars with your friends. Whether you’re chasing adventure or peace, Wayanad has it all.

• Best time to visit: October to May
• Distance from airport and railway station: Kozhikode (Calicut) International Airport (90 km), Wayanad Railway Station (72 km)
• Ideal stay budget: Budget-friendly homestays and resorts. INR 1200 to INR 2000 per night.
• Tip: Don’t forget to carry your camera as Wayanad landscapes are very beautiful. 

• Varkala

Varkala is a calm beach town on Kerala’s coast, famous for its tall cliffs and blue sea. Picture yourself sitting on a cliff, watching the waves crash below while the cool breeze touches your face. Here, you can do yoga by the beach, try relaxing Ayurvedic treatments, or walk on the soft sands of the famous Papanasam Beach. Varkala is the kind of place that makes you forget time

• Best time to visit: September to March
• Distance from the airport and the railway station: Trivandrum International Airport (45 km), Varkala Railway Station (3 km).
• Ideal stay budget:  INR 1000 to INR 1600 per night. 
• Tip: Try the local seafood on the beach

• Kovalam

Kovalam is the place where you can spend lazy days on the beach, listening to the waves and feeling the cool breeze. But it’s more than just a beach town; you can enjoy exciting water sports, relax with Ayurvedic massages, and in the evening, watch the magical sunset at the famous Lighthouse Beach.

• Best time to visit:  November to February
• Distance from airport and railway station: Trivandrum International Airport (15 km), Kovalam Railway Station (13 km)
• Ideal stay budget: Budget hotels to luxury resorts. INR 1200 to INR 2000 per night. 
• Tip: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid the crowd

• Kumarakom 

Kumarakom is a peaceful backwater village surrounded by coconut trees and greenery. Here, mornings start with birds singing, and the calm water of Vembanad Lake makes the whole place magical. You can take a boat ride, go birdwatching at the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, or simply relax in a lakeside resort. Don’t miss the sunset cruise – it’s one of the most beautiful experiences you can have in Kerala.

• Best time to visit: November to March
• Distance from airport and railway station: Cochin International Airport (75 km), Kottayam Railway Station (15 km) 
• Ideal stay budget: Budget stays at luxurious resorts. INR 1400 to INR 2000 per night.
• Tip: Visit during early mornings for birdwatching near Vembanad Lake

• Athirappilly  

Athirappilly, home to India’s biggest waterfall, is often called the Niagara of India. The water drops from 80 feet, creating a misty view that appears dreamy. Surrounded by dense, green forests, it’s a great place to trek, take photos, or just sit and enjoy nature’s power. If you want a quick escape from the city, Athirappilly is the perfect weekend trip.

• Best time to visit:  June to September (for full monsoon glory)
• Distance from airport and railway station: Cochin International Airport (60 km), Chalakudy Railway Station (10 km)
• Ideal stay budget: Budget resorts and homestays. INR 1200 to INR 1800 per night.
• Tip: Visit during or just after the monsoon for maximum water flow.

• Idukki  

Idukki is a beautiful hill district in Kerala, known for its green forests, spice plantations, and calm lakes. The famous Idukki Dam is a must-see, where the water sparkles in the sunlight. You can walk through cardamom and pepper gardens, enjoy the cool mountain air, and take in the stunning views all around. If you want a peaceful break from city life, Idukki is the perfect place to relax in nature.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Distance from airport and railway station: Cochin International Airport (120 km), Kottayam Railway Station (90 km)
• Ideal stay budget: Budget stays and mid-range resorts. Cost is between INR 1000 and INR 1600 per night.
• Tip: Visit the Idukki Dam for spectacular views

• Vagamon

Vagamon is a peaceful hill station in Kerala, surrounded by pine forests, green covers, and misty hills. It’s a great place for nature walks, paragliding, and enjoying the cool mountain weather. Pine Valley, Kurisumala, Vagamon Lake, and Thangalpara are some top attractions. The tea gardens and calm environment make it perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking for a refreshing getaway.

• Best time to visit: March to May, September to November
• Distance from airport and railway station: Cochin International Airport (100 km), Kottayam Railway Station (64 km)
• Ideal stay budget: Budget hotels and homestays, between INR 1,200 and INR 2,000 per night
• Travel Tip: Try paragliding here for an unforgettable view of the hills

• Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is a mix of culture, beaches, and history. You can visit the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Shankumugham Beach, Poovar Island, Kuthiramalika Palace, Veli Tourist Village, relax at Kovalam Beach, or enjoy art at the Napier Museum. The city also serves as a gateway to nearby beach towns and Ayurveda retreats. It’s a lively place where tradition and modern life blend perfectly.

• Best time to visit: October to February
• Distance from airport and railway station: Trivandrum International Airport (6 km), Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (2 km)
• Ideal stay budget: Budget hotels to luxury resorts, starting from INR 1,000 per night
• Travel Tip: Don’t miss the sunset at Kovalam Beach, one of Kerala’s most famous attractions.

Best Places to Visit in Kerala Based on Travel Purpose

For Honeymoon

Munnar, Alleppey, Varkala, Kovalam, and Kumarakom are the dream destinations for honeymooners. These are the best places to visit in Kerala for couples, offering scenic views, serene backwaters, and calm beaches to relax and spend some quality time.

For Family Trips

Thekkady, Idukki, Kochi, Kumarakom, Athirappilly, and Kovalam are the top places for a family vacation in Kerala. They are filled with family-friendly activities like wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and houseboat rides. 

For Solo Travellers

Wayanad, Varkala, Fort Kochi, and Alleppey are ideal for solo travellers seeking a blend of adventure, culture and peaceful relaxation. Whether you’re trekking, exploring markets, or simply enjoying the coast, these increase your excitement level. 

For Nature & Wildlife

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, Wayanad, Idukki, and Athirappilly are ideal for nature lovers. When you head to these places, you can witness the wildlife, dense forests, and cool mountain climates. And yes, the natural beauty of these spots will leave you speechless. 

For Ayurveda & Wellness

To relax and rejuvenate, places like Periyar, Wayanad, Idukki, Kovalam, and Kumarakom are a must-go, as they offer various ayurvedic retreats. You can indulge in wellness treatments surrounded by nature.

For History & Culture

Fort Kochi and Thrissur are must-visits, but also add Bekal (Bekal Fort) and Palakkad. Colonial charm, vibrant festivals, temples, forts, and palaces give you a glimpse into Kerala’s rich past.

For Festivals & Events

• Onam: Kerala’s biggest celebration with flower carpets, boat races, and a massive feast. Visit Thrissur or Alleppey to enjoy the full vibe.
• Snake boat race: This is the traditional boat race, known as the Vallamkali. It features long, snake-like boats, powered by 100 rowers. The most famous is the Nehru Trophy Race held on the Punnamada Lake in Alleppey (Alappuzha). 
• Vishu: A New Year-style festival with yellow flowers, crackers, and rituals. Best experienced in Palakkad or Kottayam homes.
• Theyyam: A powerful ritual with fire, face paint, and fierce dance. Visit Kannur or Kasaragod to see the amazing ritual.
• Thrissur Pooram: Imagine over 30 elephants decorated with golden ornaments, the sound of traditional drums filling the air, and a sky lit up with fireworks. This is Kerala’s grandest and most energetic temple festival, often called the “biggest celebration of sound and colour

For Authentic Food 

If you are a food lover, then try the legendary biryani and sweet snacks in Kozhikode. Enjoy the fresh spicy fish curry, tapioca, and toddy (local drink) in Alleppey. Onam Sadya, which is the vegetarian feast on banana leaves, is a must-try in Thrissur & Palakkad. 

For Nightlife & Party

Varkala, Kochi, and Kovalam are famous for their nightlife. You can chill, relax, and enjoy the live music while having the trendy cocktails in bars, pubs, resorts or private beach parties. 

Places to Visit in Kerala in Each Season

• Monsoon: Wayanad, Athirappilly, Munnar
• Winter: All destinations are great
• Summer: Hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad

Budget-Friendly Places to Visit in Kerala

Places like Kochi (Fort Kochi), Varkala, Alleppey, Wayanad, and Munnar are budget-friendly, as it contains multiple affordable stay options ranging from hostels to homestays. These places also have good public transport systems, discounts during the off-season, and affordable local eateries.

Suggested Kerala Itineraries Based on Trip Duration

• 3-Day Trip: Munnar + Alleppey– ₹8000 to 12000 per person
• 5-Day Trip: Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey– ₹15000 to 20,000 per person 
• 7-Day Trip: Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kochi/Varkala– ₹25000 to 35000 per person

Conclusion

Now that you’ve walked through the scenic beauty and the best experiences of Kerala, start planning your vacation now. Experience the beauty of God’s Own Country, as Kerala is a mix of nature, culture and adventure. Get ready to have an incredible travel experience with your loved ones, as Kerala is calling you. Explore customizable Kerala tour packages with TravelTriangle and enjoy these best places to visit in Kerala at budget-friendly prices. 

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