13 Best Weekend Getaways From Kerala (Top 2 & 3 Day Trips Near Kerala)

Updated Date: 8 December 2025

Kerala is a beautiful state with lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, and stunning hill stations. But sometimes, even living in Kerala, we all need a short break to refresh our mind and body. That’s why weekend getaways from Kerala are very popular. Whether you are looking for a quick escape from the busy city life, a peaceful nature retreat, hill stations, or family-friendly trips, Kerala has it all.

Most travellers start their trips from major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Thrissur, or Kozhikode. From these hubs, you can plan a Kerala weekend trip that lasts 2 or 3 days. These trips can be with family, friends, solo, or even romantic escapes for couples. In this guide, we have listed the 13 best weekend getaways from Kerala, along with travel tips, itineraries, budgets, and more.

Table Of Content

Why Weekend Getaways Near Kerala Are Popular

Weekend trips from Kerala are very popular because they fit well with almost everyone’s needs. Not everyone can take long vacations, and many people just want a short break to refresh themselves without spending too many days away from work, studies, or daily responsibilities. That’s why these short trips are so appealing they give you a little escape while still keeping your routine intact.

Perfect for Families:

Families love weekend getaways from Kerala because most destinations are safe and easy to reach. Parents don’t have to worry about long travel times, and kids can enjoy themselves in places that are kid-friendly. Many resorts and hotels provide clean, hygienic rooms and fun activities for children, like boating, games, or small amusement areas. These trips also allow families to spend quality time together, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories without the stress of long vacations.

Ideal for Couples and Honeymooners:

Couples and honeymooners often look for peaceful and romantic spots. Kerala has many quiet hill stations, scenic viewpoints, and beautiful beaches that make perfect settings for couples. These destinations allow them to spend private, uninterrupted time together while enjoying nature’s beauty. Whether it’s watching a sunset on a beach, taking a quiet walk through a hill station, or staying at a cozy resort, couples can create special memories on a short Kerala weekend trip.

Fun for Friends and Groups:

Friends or groups usually want more excitement. They look for adventure, trekking, water sports, nightlife, or fun road trips. Kerala has many nearby destinations that are perfect for these activities. Whether it’s trekking through hills, exploring waterfalls, going on a long drive, or enjoying local cafes and nightlife, friends can have fun and bond on these trips without traveling too far.

Great for Solo Travellers:

Solo travellers enjoy trips that give them peace and time for self-reflection. Weekend getaways in Kerala are perfect for those who love photography, exploring culture, or simply enjoying quiet walks in nature. Staying in a calm environment, exploring temples, small villages, beaches, or forests, and trying local food can make the trip memorable and refreshing.

Stress Relief for Working Professionals:

Working professionals often have limited time but need a break from work stress. A short 2-day trip from Kerala to a hill station, backwater, or beach can recharge them mentally and physically. These trips are not expensive and don’t take too much time, making them ideal for busy people who just want to relax for a day or two.

Easy Accessibility:

Another reason why weekend getaways near Kerala are popular is that most destinations are easy to reach. You can travel by train, bus, or car, and the roads are generally good. Short travel times make it convenient to leave early in the morning and return by evening or the next day. This ease of access makes Kerala weekend trips very practical for everyone.

How to Choose the Best Weekend Trip From Kerala

Choosing the right weekend getaway from Kerala depends on three main things: how much time you have, what you enjoy doing, and how much you want to spend. Let’s break it down step by step so it’s easier to decide.

Based on Travel Duration

2-day trips from Kerala: If you have only a weekend, it’s best to pick nearby destinations. Hill stations like Ooty or Coonoor are great because you can enjoy the cool weather, scenic views, and tea plantations without feeling rushed. Quick city escapes like Coimbatore or Madurai also work well; they are close, easy to reach, and have interesting places to see.
3-day trips from Kerala: With an extra day, you can explore slightly farther destinations. Kodaikanal, Coorg, or Pondicherry are ideal. You’ll have enough time to see the main attractions, relax, and enjoy some leisure or adventure activities without hurrying.
Extended weekends (4–5 days): If you have a long weekend, you can plan bigger trips. For example, you could combine Kanyakumari with Kovalam for a mix of beaches and sightseeing or take a road trip covering multiple destinations. More days mean you can explore more places, try local food, and enjoy the journey itself.

Based on Interest Types

If you love hill stations: Visit Ooty, Coonoor, Kodaikanal, Coorg, or Meghamalai. These places are perfect for cool weather, misty valleys, and tea plantations. You can go for walks, enjoy the scenery, and just relax in nature.
If you love wildlife and forests: Choose Masinagudi, Kabini, Periyar, or Wayanad. These places have safaris, jungle walks, and chances to spot elephants and other wildlife.
If you love beaches and coastal towns: Go to Kanyakumari, Pondicherry, or Kovalam. You can enjoy sunsets, beach walks, water sports, and a relaxed seaside vibe.
If you love heritage and culture: Visit Mysore, Madurai, or Coimbatore. These cities are rich in temples, palaces, museums, and local arts and crafts.
If you love food: Try Coimbatore, Madurai, or Pondicherry. Explore street food, local dishes, and cozy cafes.
If you love adventure and trekking: Head to Wayanad, Coorg, Meghamalai, or Yelagiri. You can go hiking, try paragliding, or do activities like ziplining.

Based on Budget

Budget-friendly trips: Places like Masinagudi, Yelagiri, Coimbatore, or Kanyakumari are affordable. Stays and food are cheap, so it’s perfect for those traveling on a tight budget.
Mid-range trips: Destinations like Ooty, Kodaikanal, Mysore, and Pondicherry offer comfortable hotels and good amenities without being too expensive.
Premium getaways: If you want a luxurious experience, choose Coorg, Kabini, or luxury resorts in hill stations. These are ideal for families or couples who want comfort, indulgence, and high-end facilities.

By considering how much time you have, what you enjoy, and your budget, you can easily pick the best weekend trip Kerala. The key is to match the trip with your interests and available days so you can enjoy your getaway without stress.

13 Best Weekend Getaways From Kerala

Well known for its picturesque beauty and geographical diversity, there are amazing tourist places near Kerala. Right from the Queen of Nilgiris Ooty, to the beach paradise of Pondicherry, pick any of these 13 best weekend getaways from Kerala to make the most of your weekends!

Coonoor
Ooty
Coimbatore
Meghamalai
Mysore
Kodaikanal
Coorg
Madurai
Masinagudi
Kabini
Kanyakumari
Yelagiri
Pondicherry

Weekend Getaways From Kerala Under 200 Kms

Take a look at all the impeccable weekend getaways from Kerala that are located at a mere distance of 200 km and can be easily reached.

1. Coonoor – Tea Gardens, Tranquil Hills & Short Weekend Escape

Why Visit Coonoor:
Coonoor is quieter than Ooty and offers rolling tea gardens and peaceful hills. Ideal for a Kerala weekend trip from Kochi.

Top Attractions:

Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint, Lamb’s Rock

Must-Try Activities:

Trekking, nature walks, tea tasting
Ideal Stay Options: Homestays, resorts near tea estates

Budget + Travel Routes:

₹5,000–₹8,000 per person; road or train via Ooty

2-Day & 3-Day Kerala Weekend Trip Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive, visit Sim’s Park and tea estates
Day 2: Dolphin’s Nose, Lamb’s Rock, return

Must Read: Trekking In Kerala: A Short Guide For Beginners!

2. Ooty – Queen of Hill Stations & the Most Popular Weekend Getaway From Kerala

Why Visit Ooty for a Weekend Trip?
Ooty is famous for its lush green valleys, tea gardens, and cool weather. It’s perfect for a Kerala weekend trip because it is easy to reach and offers something for everyone.

Top Places to Visit in Ooty:

Ooty Lake for boating
Botanical Gardens for nature walks
Doddabetta Peak for panoramic views
Rose Garden for beautiful blooms

Things to Do:

Take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Enjoy tea tasting at local plantations
Go trekking in nearby hills

Best Time to Visit: September to May

Ideal For: Families, couples, friends, solo travellers

Distance & How to Reach:

Approximately 260 km from Kochi, accessible by road or train.

2-Day Ooty Itinerary From Kerala:

Day 1: Reach Ooty, visit Ooty Lake and Botanical Garden, and spend the evening at Rose Garden
Day 2: Doddabetta Peak, Tea Factory, and local market shopping

3-Day Ooty Itinerary From Kerala:

Day 1: Travel and relax
Day 2: Full day sightseeing – Doddabetta Peak, Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake
Day 3: Nilgiri Mountain Railway and nearby tea estates

Average Trip Budget: ₹6,000–₹10,000 per person

3. Coimbatore – Culture, Food, Nature & Perfect City Getaway

Why it suits a weekend getaway from Kochi:

Easy road connectivity, cultural attractions, and good food.

Top Spots:

Marudhamalai Temple, Isha Yoga Center, Kovai Kutralam, Adiyogi

Food Experiences:

Local South Indian meals, street food

Road Trip Routes:

Kochi → Coimbatore via Munnar

2-Day Travel Plan:

Day 1: Visit Marudhamalai Temple, Isha Yoga Center
Day 2: Kovai Kutralam, local markets, return

Weekend Getaways From Kerala Under 300 Kms

Here is a terrific list of most famous weekend getaways from Kerala that are located under 300 Km. Keep scrolling down to know more and don’t forget to add the best to your bucket list!

4. Meghamalai – Dreamy Hills, Mists & Lakes

Why Visit:

Virgin hill station with fewer tourists, perfect for a peaceful Kerala weekend trip.

Activities:

Nature walks, wildlife spotting, boating

Ideal 2-Day Romantic Escape:

Explore tea estates, watch sunsets, enjoy quiet time

Budget Guide:

₹6,000–₹9,000 per person including stay and travel

5. Mysore – Royal City & Top 2-Day Trip From Kerala

Top Attractions:

Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, Zoo, Museums, Sandalwood & Silk shopping

Itinerary:

Day 1: Mysore Palace, Zoo, Brindavan Gardens at night
Day 2: Local markets, heritage museums, return

6. Kodaikanal – Misty Valleys & Romantic Vibes

Top Places:

Kodai Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Dolphin’s Nose, Pillar Rocks

Things to Do:

Boating, trekking, evening strolls

Adventure and Leisure Itinerary:

Day 1: Lake and Coaker’s Walk
Day 2: Pillar Rocks, Dolphin’s Nose, local markets

7. Coorg – Scotland of India

Highlights:

Coffee estates, waterfalls, forests, adventure trails

Stay Options:

Resorts, homestays

Activities:

Trekking, jeep safaris, coffee plantation tours

8. Madurai – Temple Trails & Cultural Escapes

Attractions: Meenakshi Amman Temple, heritage walks, local food

1-Night/2-Day Trip Plan:

Day 1: Temple tour, street food
Day 2: Heritage exploration, return

9. Masinagudi – Wildlife, Safaris & Forest Retreat

Activities: Safari, jeep rides, elephant spotting
Best Time for Wildlife: October to March
Ideal for 2-Day Nature Break: Explore Nilgiris forests, stay in jungle lodges

10. Kabini – Wildlife Luxury Escape (Best 3-Day Trip From Kerala)

Highlights: Kabini River, Tiger Reserve, boat safari
Luxury Lodges: Family-friendly and couple-friendly
3-Day Plan: Safari, relaxation, sightseeing

Weekend Getaways From Kerala Within 500 Kms

Perfect for a long weekend, this list of weekend getaways from Kerala under 500 km has all the best places. Take a look and choose the destination you like the most for your next trip!

11. Kanyakumari – Where Oceans Meet

Highlights: Sunrise & sunset, Vivekananda Rock, temples
Coastal Activities: Beach walks, local food
Budget & Travel Tips: ₹5,000–₹8,000 per person, road trip from Trivandrum

12. Yelagiri – Offbeat Hill Station for a Quiet Kerala Weekend Trip

Activities: Trekking, lakes, parks, seasonal paragliding
Budget Stays: ₹2,500–₹5,000

13. Pondicherry – Beaches, Cafes & French Vibes

Highlights: Promenade Beach, White Town, cafes, Auroville

2/3-Day Chill Itinerary:

Day 1: Beach and White Town exploration
Day 2: Auroville visit, local cafes, shopping

Suggested 2-Day Weekend Trip Plans From Kerala

Hill Station Plan:

This plan is perfect for people who love cool weather, green hills, and tea gardens.

Day 1: Start early from Kerala and drive to Munnar. Once you arrive, you can visit tea plantations and the Eravikulam National Park (home of the Nilgiri Tahr) and enjoy the scenic views of rolling hills. Evening is great for a peaceful walk around the town or visiting the local market.
Day 2: Leave Munnar early and head to Ooty. Ooty is famous for its lakes, gardens, and toy train. You can take a boat ride at Ooty Lake, stroll through the Botanical Garden, and enjoy the cool weather. Later, drive to Coonoor, a smaller hill town known for its tea estates and viewpoints like Dolphin’s Nose. By evening, you can head back home or spend some time exploring local cafes.

Who this is for: Nature lovers, photographers, families, or anyone who enjoys calm, scenic places.

Adventure Plan:

This plan is ideal for people who love wildlife and exciting outdoor activities.

Day 1: Drive to Masinagudi, which is close to the Mudumalai National Park. You can go on an evening safari to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife. The forests here are peaceful and perfect for nature lovers.
Day 2: Head to Kabini, which is famous for its wildlife sanctuary and river safaris. You can take a boat ride or jeep safari to see animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, and lots of birds. After a day of adventure, start your return journey.

Who this is for: Wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone who enjoys being close to nature and exploring forests.

Relaxed Plan: Coimbatore → Pondicherry

This plan is for people who want a calm and easy trip with good food, beaches, and quiet streets.

Day 1: Start your trip by driving to Coimbatore. You can explore local temples and shopping areas and enjoy some South Indian food. Coimbatore is a nice stopover for the night before heading to the coast.
Day 2: Drive to Pondicherry, a charming town with French-style streets, beaches, and cafes. Spend your day walking along the promenade, relaxing at the beach, and trying local snacks and coffee. In the evening, you can enjoy a calm sunset before heading back home.

Who this is for: People who love quiet trips, beaches, good food, and culture.

Suggested 3-Day Weekend Trip Plans From Kerala

Romantic Trip: Kodaikanal → Coorg

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this plan is perfect. You start with Kodaikanal, a hill station with cool weather, beautiful lakes, and scenic viewpoints. It’s a great place to spend quality time together, go for long walks, or enjoy boating in the lake. After 1–2 days here, you can drive to Coorg, another hill station famous for coffee plantations, misty hills, and waterfalls. Coorg is peaceful and ideal for couples who want to relax and spend quiet moments surrounded by nature.

Beach & Culture: Kanyakumari → Kovalam

This plan is great if you love beaches and cultural experiences. Begin your trip with Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. Here, you can see the unique sunrise and sunset over the sea, visit the famous Vivekananda Rock Memorial, and explore local temples. After spending a day in Kanyakumari, head to Kovalam, a famous beach town in Kerala. Kovalam has sandy beaches, calm waters, and small seaside cafes. It’s perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the beach vibes.

Road Trip: Pondicherry

For those who enjoy driving and exploring at their own pace, a road trip to Pondicherry is a fun option. The roads are scenic, and the town itself has a mix of French architecture, quiet streets, and vibrant cafes. You can take it slow, explore beaches, visit churches and temples, and enjoy the peaceful vibes. This trip is flexible; you can stop along the way, take photos, and enjoy local food.

Best Time for Weekend Getaways From Kerala

Summer Escapes (March to June)

During summer, the weather in Kerala can get quite hot. This makes it a perfect time to head to hill stations, where the temperature is cooler and the surroundings are peaceful.

Ooty: Known as the “Queen of Hills,” Ooty has beautiful gardens, lakes, and tea plantations. The cool climate makes it a great summer getaway.
Kodaikanal: Another popular hill station, Kodaikanal has misty hills, waterfalls, and calm lakes. It’s ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature.

Summer is best for hill stations because you can enjoy outdoor activities like boating, trekking, and sightseeing without worrying about rain.

Monsoon Weekend Trips (June to September)

Kerala’s monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, which makes the forests, hills, and waterfalls look fresh and green. If you love nature, this is the perfect time to explore scenic landscapes.

Wayanad: Famous for its lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife, Wayanad looks magical during the rains. You can enjoy trekking, visiting waterfalls, or simply relaxing amidst nature.
Coorg: Known as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg becomes even more beautiful in the monsoon, with misty hills and coffee plantations. It’s ideal for a peaceful weekend surrounded by greenery.

Monsoon trips are great if you enjoy the rain and don’t mind a few wet trails. Just make sure to carry rain gear and check road conditions.

Winter Road Trips (November to February)

Winter in Kerala is cool and comfortable, making it ideal for road trips to beaches or coastal towns.

Kanyakumari: At the southern tip of India, Kanyakumari is famous for its sunrise and sunset views over the sea. The winter weather makes exploring the beaches and local sights enjoyable.
Pondicherry: A charming coastal town with French-style streets, cafes, and calm beaches. Winter is the best time to enjoy long walks on the beach and sightseeing without the heat.

Winter trips are perfect if you like calm beach views, long drives, and relaxed vacations.

How to Reach These Weekend Getaway Destinations From Kerala

By Road

Most destinations are accessible via NH and state highways. Self-drive cars and cabs are convenient.

By Train

Major destinations like Ooty, Coimbatore, Mysore, and Pondicherry have train connections.

By Flight

Kochi and Trivandrum airports connect to Coimbatore, Mysore, and Pondicherry.

Self-drive vs Public Transport

Self-drive allows flexibility, while buses and trains are budget-friendly and safe.

Average Trip Budget for a Kerala Weekend Trip

Budget travellers: ₹3,000–₹6,000
Couples: ₹6,000–₹12,000
Families: ₹10,000–₹20,000
Backpackers: ₹4,000–₹7,000
Premium travellers: ₹20,000+

Breakdown: Stay, transport, food, activities

Tips for Planning a Perfect Weekend Getaway From Kerala

Start early to cover more destinations
Choose the best travel window according to season
Pre-book stays to avoid last-minute rushes.
Carry essentials like medicines, jackets, chargers
Keep safety and weather in mind
Plan kid-friendly activities if travelling with children

Further Read: 10 Breathtaking Places To Visit In Kerala In May That Must Be On Every Explorer’s List!

Imagining the roaring of the bikes on these roads already? Well we don’t think you’ll be alone in imagining so as these weekend getaways from Kerala do have the ability of casting a magical spell on the travelers. And for whenever you plan one on a long Kerala trip, make sure you consider one of these destinations to make the most of your best weekend escapes!

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FAQs About Weekend Getaways From Kerala

What are the best weekend getaways from Kerala?

Ooty, Coonoor, Coorg, Kodaikanal, Mysore, Masinagudi, Kanyakumari, Pondicherry.

Which are the best weekend getaways from Kochi within 300 km?

Ooty, Coonoor, Coimbatore, and Kodaikanal.

Which places are best for a 2-day trip from Kerala?

Mysore, Ooty, Masinagudi, and Coimbatore.

Where can I go for a 3-day weekend trip from Kerala?

Kodaikanal, Coorg, Kabini, and Pondicherry.

Which hill stations near Kerala are ideal for a short break?

Ooty, Coonoor, Kodaikanal, and Coorg.

Which are the safest weekend destinations for families near Kerala?

Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coimbatore, and Pondicherry.

Which are the best romantic weekend getaways from Kerala for couples?

Kodaikanal, Coorg, Meghamalai, and Ooty.

What is the best time to plan a Kerala weekend trip?

September to May is ideal for most destinations.

Which weekend getaways near Kerala are good for budget travellers?

Masinagudi, Yelagiri, Kanyakumari, and Coimbatore.

Do I need to pre-book hotels for weekend trips from Kerala?

Yes, especially during peak season or long weekends.

Which places near Kerala offer adventure activities like trekking, ziplining, and safaris?

Coorg, Wayanad, Masinagudi, Kabini, Meghamalai.

Are there good road trip destinations near Kerala for bikers and car travellers?

Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coorg, Pondicherry, and Kanyakumari.

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Ritika Agarwal

Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.