The hub of Ayurveda, the land of tranquility, and the home of backwaters, there is no one who wouldn’t want to visit Kerala when in India. However, no matter how much God’s own country may make you feel like being at home, it is always a good time to hit the roads and make the most of the weekends. Exploring some of the best weekend getaways from Kerala is something that keeps the travelers hooked to this place as well. Being accessible to some of the romantic escapes in the neighboring states, Kerala always makes a good base for some of the most memorable journeys, even on the weekends!
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
Image Credit: Janjri For Wikimedia Commons
A lush green paradise that falls before Ooty in the heart of Nilgiri Hills, Coonoor is one of the best weekend getaways from Kerala for all types of travelers. From the tea estates to the historical forts, there is not a single dull moment while spending time amidst the best of nature in Coonoor. Most of all, do enjoy your experience of the toy train!
Places To Visit: Sim’s Park, Droog Fort, Tiger Hill Cemetery, Wellington Lake, Tn 43 shop, and more
Things To Do: Visit the High Field Tea Estate, hike up to Lamb’s Rock, ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line, and more
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 160 Kms
Time Taken: 5 hours
Must Read: Trekking In Kerala: A Short Guide For Beginners!
2. Ooty
Image Credit: Ajay Babu For Pexels
Ooty is not just one of the best weekend getaways from Kerala, but also happens to be the most famous hill stations in South India. Famous for being the home to the incredible botanical garden that hosts the popular flower show every summer, one has got to explore the various vantage points and try their hands on some of the most delicious homemade chocolates.
Places To Visit: Government Rose Garden, The Tea Factory & The Tea Museum, St. Stephen’s Church, Thread Garden, Stone House, and more
Things To Do: Boating at Ooty Boat House, witness the flower show at Government Botanical Garden, explore the Government Museum, visit Tiger Hill, and more
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 178 Kms
Time Taken: 6 hours
3. Coimbatore
Image Credit: Adithya For Wikimedia
Coimbatore is a beautiful place offering various activities for tourists to indulge in which makes it one of the best places to visit near Kerala within 200 kms. From historical temples to amazing mountains, delicious cuisines to pleasant weather throughout the year, Coimbatore has everything you wish for to make your weekend getaway memorable.
Places To Visit: Marudamalai Temple, Perur Pateeswarar Temple and Siruvani Waterfalls
Things To Do: Go karting, trekking, camping, wildlife safari, food tour
Best Time To Visit: July to March
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 109 Kms
Time Taken: 2.5hours
Suggested Read: River Rafting In Kerala: 4 Enthralling Spots Where You Can Get High On Adrenaline
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
Image Credit: Shivmirthyu For Pixabay
Fall in love at the first sight with all shades of green at the quaint little hill station of Meghamalai that is nestled between the cold mountains above the district of Theni in Tamil Nadu. Elevated at a height of about 1500 meters, Meghamalai serves the travelers with the best of trekking, hiking, and birdwatching as it is surrounded by the beauty of Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary and never ending stretches of tea and coffee plantations. It is undoubtedly one of the best weekend getaways near Kerala.
Places To Visit: Pilavakkal Dam, Highwavys Church, Chinna Suruli, Meghamalai View point, Kodi Lingam Temple, and more
Things To Do: Hike up to the Sathuragiri Hills, visit the Suruli Falls, explore the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, and more
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Kerala: 220 Kms
Time Taken: 6.5 hours
Suggested Read: 8 Road Trips From Kerala For That Dreamy Sojourn!
5. Mysore
Once a royal seat of the Mysore Kingdom, this southern beauty is indeed one of the fascinating weekend getaways from Kerala. With Mysore Palace forming the core of the city, it is indeed one of the best places to visit in Mysore as it stands as witness of four architectural styles – Gothic, Islamic, Rajput, and Hindu. Popular all over the country for three S’s – sandalwood, silk, and spices, make sure you do not miss out exploring the ancient Devaraja Market that is believed to be centuries-old.
Places To Visit: Mysore Palace, Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Sri Chamundeshwari Ammanavara Temple, St. Philomena’s Cathedral, and more
Things To Do: Visit the Brindavan Gardens, explore the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, visit the Karanji Lake, adore the Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery And Auditorium, and more
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 220 Kms
Time Taken: 6.5 hours
Suggested Read: 7 Resorts Near Kerala For A Perfect Weekend Getaway!
6. Kodaikanal
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One of the most romantic weekend getaways from Kerala, Kodaikanal is all about love, positive vibes, and the refreshing surroundings that can switch your mood from good to best in no time. An important feature of the Dindigul district that helps in attracting crowds throughout the year, the beauty of Kodaikanal is an amalgamation of valleys, waterfalls, forests, lakes, and cliffs that will not leave any stone unturned in impressing the travelers. Make sure you rent a bicycle to explore the best of it.
Places To Visit: Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, Kurinji Andavar Temple, Bear Shola Falls, Chettiar Park, and more
Things To Do: Explore the Coaker’s Walk, visit the Silver Cascade Falls, visit the Solar Observatory Museum, and more
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 230 Kms
Time Taken: 7 hours
Suggested Read: 7 Extravagant Hotels Near Kerala For An Easy And Comfortable Stay
7. Coorg
Image Credit: Ashwinstein For Wikimedia Commons
Imagined yourself surrounded by lush greenery and covered by mist all around? Well such is the gem that goes by the name of Coorg. A paradise of coffee plantations nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Coorg serves as a great escape over the weekends for all the nature lovers. Also known as Kodagu amongst the locals, make sure you do not miss out experiencing some of the best of luxury, authentic cuisine, and the rich history when in Coorg. Truly, there is no dearth of places to visit in Coorg.
Places To Visit: Raja’s Tomb, Omkareshwara Temple, Madikeri Fort, Government Museum, Nehru Mantap, and more
Things To Do: Hike up to Raja’s Seat, enjoy the views from View Point Park, visit the Abbey Falls Madikeri, and more
Best Time To Visit: December to February
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 260 Kms
Time Taken: 7.5 hours
Suggested Read: 9 Cottages In Kerala To Plan An Exotic Stay In ‘God’s Own Country’
8. Madurai
Image Credit: Jorge Royan For Wikimedia Commons
One of the best weekend getaways from Kerala for those who are looking forward to taking their family or loved ones on a religious trip, Madurai is the famous temple city in the heart of Tamil Nadu. Set on the banks of River Vaigai, Madurai is reckoned to be one of the famous sites of pilgrimage in India. With the world-famous Meenakshi Temple standing tall at the core of the city with its fourteen high Gopurams, exploring this city of temples serves the travelers well on the weekends.
Places To Visit: Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple, and more
Things To Do: Visit the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, explore the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, visit the Gandhi Memorial Museum, and more
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 290 Kms
Time Taken: 7.5 hours
9. Masinagudi
Image Credit: BinAli For Wikimedia
The hill town, Masinagudi is one of the best tourist places near Kerala. Known for its calmness and serenity, visiting this place is a wonderful break from the hustle and bustle of life. While you are here don’t forget to observe the training sessions of Elephants at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp and see some rare species of animals and birds at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. The pleasant weather makes it a superb offbeat weekend destination that can be visited anytime throughout the year.
Places To Visit: Maravakandy Dam, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Moyar River, Theppakadu Elephant Camp
Things To Do: Jeep safari, trekking, jungle stay
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Distance From Kerala: 220 kms
Time Taken: 6 hours
Suggested Read: Kerala In January: A Guide For A Memorable Vacation In This Southern State
10. Kabini
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If you are looking for the best tourist places near Kerala to spend a happy weekend, Kabini is a good option. It is a perfect place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the river and if you want to make your getaway adventurous you can stay at the night camps over here. It is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Kabini.
Places To Visit: Nagarhole National Park, Kabini River, Kabini Dam, Rameshwara Temple
Things To Do: Trekking, camping
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Distance From Kerala: 230 kms
Time Taken: 7 hours
Suggested Read: Kerala Vs. Andaman: Which Is The Best Coastal Travel Destination?
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
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A pretty little coastal town on the southern tip of the Tamil Nadu state, Kanyakumari is one of the best weekend getaways around Kerala for those who love views to die for. For never ending views of the endless sea, waves crashing against the rocks, reviving sunrises, and refreshing sunsets, Kanyakumari is the best place to be. Formerly known as Cape Comorin during the era of the Britishers, it also happens to be Tamil Nadu’s smallest district.
Places To Visit: Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Sarvani Shakti Peeth Shri Bhagavathy Temple, and more
Things To Do: Visit the Kanyakumari Beach, adore the Our Lady of Ransom Church, have fun at the Baywaatch Park, explore the Sunset Point, and more
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 420 Kms
Time Taken: 8.5 hours
Suggested Read: 13 Charming Lakes In Kerala To Visit Away From The Cosmopolitan Allure!
12. Yelagiri
Image Credit: Ashwin Kumar For Wikimedia Commons
Comprising 14 little villages, Yelagiri or Elagiri, is a refreshing hill station that forms the heart of the new Tirupattur district of Tamil Nadu. Popularly known for the tribal culture, the unique tribal huts, rejuvenating valleys, and rose gardens, Yelagiri is nestled amidst the mountains that makes it a peaceful escape for the travelers on a weekend. Located at an elevation of about 1410 meters, it is also one of the most offbeat destinations for the trekking enthusiasts.
Places To Visit: Swamimalai Hills, Nature Park, Yelagiri Lake, Perumal Temple, Murugan Temple, and more
Things To Do: Boating at Nilavoor Lake, explore the Fundera Park, visit the Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Stellar Cave, and more
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 445 Kms
Time Taken: 9 hours
Suggested Read: Paragliding In Kerala: A Complete Guide To Fly High
13. Pondicherry
Image Credit: Ehteshaam Khatri For Wikimedia Commons
A beautiful coastal city offering amazing views of the Bay of Bengal, Pondicherry is one of the most beautiful cities in India. Inspired by the French colonial architecture, you cannot help but fall in love with its bustling streets lined with refreshing trees, colorful cafes, ancient buildings, and beautiful French quarters. Oozing positive and refreshing vibes from every nook and corner, Pondicherry makes for one of the best long weekend getaways from Kerala.
Places To Visit: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pondicherry Museum, French War Memorial, and more
Things To Do: Walk down the Promenade Beach, enjoy boating at Paradise Beach, go for an evening stroll at the Rock Beach, explore the Bharathi Park, and more
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Distance From Kerala: Approx. 483 Kms
Time Taken: 9 hours
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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Frequently Asked Questions About Weekend Getaways From Kerala
What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala and explore all the varied types of landscapes happens to be the months between September to March.
Which is the nearest weekend getaway from Kerala?
Considering where you are in Kerala or assuming that your base is at the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kanyakumari would be the nearest weekend getaway from Kerala at a distance of approximately 91 kilometers.
Which is the best place to explore the backwaters in Kerala?
Alleppey hands down are the best to explore the beauty of backwaters when in Kerala. Do not miss out on the experience of a houseboat stay when in Kerala!
Which are the best weekend getaways from Kerala for a bike trip?
Ooty, Coonoor, Mysore, and Meghamalai are all some of the best weekend getaways from Kerala for a bike trip.
Which are the best weekend getaways from Kerala in Tamil Nadu?
For those who are looking forward to famous weekend escapes then Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Coonoor would be the best options, and for those who are in search of offbeat destinations, they should go for places like Meghamalai, Yelagiri, and Kanyakumari.
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