Nestled between the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east, and crisscrossed by 44 rivers, Kerala, affectionately known as God’s Own Country, stands as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in India, drawing visitors from around the globe. From the stunning beaches along the Malabar Coast to the complex system of backwater canals that meander through vast rice fields and the splendid rolling tea estates in the Western Ghats, Kerala’s landscapes are as diverse as its people. With its verdant hills, unspoiled beaches, serene backwaters, and lively festivals, Kerala provides a distinctive and captivating experience for every traveler as part of the India tour packages. Whether you are organizing a romantic honeymoon, a refreshing retreat, or an exciting family holiday, delve into our detailed guide to the premier attractions in Kerala.
Watch Video - Most Visited Tourist Places in Kerala
Munnar
Munnar is one of the best hill stations in India and also one of the top places to visit in Kerala. Fondly called the Swiss of South India, it was once the summer resort of the British Governors of South India. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India – Anamudi, which towers over 2695 meters. Munnar is also known for Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years. This is also one of the best places to visit near Kochi, Coimbatore & Madurai. Munnar is a trekker’s paradise too, which offers both soft and mountain trekking. Visit the wildlife sanctuaries around Munnar. Some of the major attractions of Munnar are Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Kundala Lake, Top Station, Anamudi peak, Devikulam, Nyayamkad falls, Thoovanam falls, Eravikulam National Park, and Attukal Waterfalls are the top places to visit as part of Munnar tour packages. Munnar offers different experiences throughout the year, while March to May is the peak season.
Book Here: Munnar Honeymoon Packages
Alleppey
Alappuzha also known as Alleppey is situated on the shores of Arabian Sea close to the banks of Vembanad Lake. Alleppey is among the most famous Kerala tourist places and is also one of the ideal places to visit near Kochi & Trivandrum. Along with Kumarakom, Alappuzha is among the most famous destinations of Backwaters in Kerala. A houseboat cruise through these backwaters is a delightful experience not to miss on your honeymoon trip. Popularly known as the ‘Venice of the East’, Alleppey is also known for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race held on the Punnamada Lake on the second Saturday of August every year. This is the most competitive and popular of the boat races in India. Kuttanad, Alappuzha Beach, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Arthunkal Church, Mannarasala Temple, Chettikulangara Devi Temple, Thakazhy Shree Dharmashastha Temple, Mullakkal Temple, Champakulam and Krishnapuram Palace are the some popular tourist places in Alleppey.
Book Here: Alleppey Tour Packages
Most Popular Kerala Tours
Kochi / Cochin
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a port city in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. It is one of the prime tourist places in Kerala and also a good place for Kerala Lakes & Backwaters trip. Well known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, Kochi is considered one of the finest harbors in the world. Nothing can be fascinating than cruising through the serene lakes of Cochin that are lined up with coconut trees. Kochi is the main tourist hub for many Kerala tours, and among the top places to visit near Coimbatore. The tourism in Kochi is admired for its scenic beauty, traditional architecture, and cultural diversity. This city is home to the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth as well as numerous old churches and temples. Attracting tourists from all around the world, Fort Kochi, Bolghatty Palace, Marine Drive, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, St. George Ferona Church – Edappally, Cochin Jewish Synagogue, Matancherry Palace, and Chinese Fishing Nets are the popular places to visit in Kochi.
Book Here: Kochi Tour Packages
Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the famous Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as the Queen of Vembanad, Kumarakom is one of the most visited tourist places in Kerala for backwater cruises. The major sightseeing option at Kumarakom is the backwater cruises in Vembanad Lake. A houseboat cruise along the backwaters is really an amazing experience for every traveler to Kumarakom. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumaramangalam Temple, Vaikom, Pathiramanal Island, Aranmula, Vagamon, and Erumeli are the popular Kumarakom tourist places. Kumarakom is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. It is also famous for Ayurvedic massage, yoga, and meditation. Kumarakom is the venue for Sree Narayana Jayanthi Boat Race held in September during Onam festival.
Book Here: Kumarakom Tour Packages
Thekkady
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Thekkady, within the Idukki district of Kerala. It ranks among the finest wildlife sanctuaries in both India and Kerala. Established in 1950, the park was designated as a Tiger Reserve in 1978. The captivating artificial lake created by the Mullaperiyar Dam on the Periyar River enhances the park’s allure. Together with Kumarakom and Alappuzha, Thekkady is one of the most renowned destinations included in Kerala Wildlife packages. Inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, there are several watchtowers that provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Thekkady is particularly famous for its Asian Elephants, Tigers, Gaurs, Sambars, Lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, Wild Boars, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Wild Dogs, Sloth Bears, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Civet, and Nilgiri Tahr, making it one of the top places to visit near Mysore. This sanctuary is unique in India as it allows visitors to observe wildlife up close from the safety of a boat on the lake. The park offers various activities such as elephant rides, jeep safaris, boating on the lake, tiger trails, and forest treks. Murikkady, Chellar Kovil, Anakkara, Mangala Devi Temple, Suruli Falls, and Pullumedu are some of the top places to visit as part of the Thekkady tour packages.
Also Read: Best Wildlife Sanctuaries near Kochi
Kovalam
Kovalam, located along the Arabian Sea, is among the most renowned beaches in Kerala. The name Kovalam translates to ‘A grove of coconut trees,’ and the entire area surrounding the shores of Kovalam is abundantly populated with coconut trees, providing stunning views as one approaches the beach. Recognized as one of the most frequented tourist places near Trivandrum, Kovalam boasts three distinct beaches. The most well-known beach is Lighthouse Beach, which offers a remarkable view of the Vizhinjam Mosque. On the northern side lies Samudra Beach, a pleasant spot to relax despite its lower level of commercial activity. The beach situated in the middle is referred to as Eve’s Beach, which was previously popular among European tourists. Eve’s Beach is perfect for enjoying a peaceful evening. Tourists can engage in various activities such as sunbathing, swimming, herbal body massages, and cultural programs. Water sports, including kayaking, surfing, fishing, and water skiing, are also available for enjoyment in Kovalam. Additionally, Kovalam is celebrated for its Ayurvedic massages and numerous yoga resorts.
Book Here: Kovalam Tour Packages
Wayanad
Situated at an elevation of 700m to 2100m, Wayanad is renowned as one of the splendid hill stations in Kerala and stands out as a significant contributor to Kerala’s foreign exchange through the cultivation of cash crops such as pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea, spices, and various condiments. The largest towns in Wayanad, namely Kalpetta, Sulthan Bathery, and Mananthavady, serve as key hubs for exploring the diverse regions of the Wayanad district. With its numerous rainforests, Wayanad is among the most sought-after tourist places near Bangalore during the monsoon season. Notable attractions in Wayanad include Meenmutty Falls, Soochipara Falls, Kanthampara Falls, Pookote Lake, Banasura Sagar Dam, Karappuzha Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Brahmagiri / Pakshipathalam, Chembra Peak, Lakkidi, Edakkal Caves, and Thirunelly Temple.
Book Here: Wayanad Tour Packages
Thrissur
Thrissur, also referred to as Trichur, is a city located in the central region of Kerala. It is recognized as one of the prominent pilgrimage sites in Kerala and serves as an excellent weekend retreat for those traveling from Kochi and Coimbatore. Thrissur is often called the Cultural Capital of Kerala due to its rich cultural, spiritual, and religious heritage throughout history. The city is renowned for hosting the internationally acclaimed Thrissur Pooram festival, which takes place in April or May. UNESCO has designated Thrissur Pooram as the most remarkable festival event in the world. Significant pilgrimage sites in Thrissur include the Vadakkumnathan Temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple, Paramekkavu Temple, Guruvayur Temple, Our Lady of Lourdes Syro-Malabar Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral, and Our Lady of Dolours Syro-Malabar Catholic Basilica. Additionally, other notable tourist places in Thrissur comprise Athirapally Falls, the Elephant Sanctuary near Guruvayur, Peechi Dam and Sanctuary, Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, Chettuva Backwaters, Thrissur Zoo, Vilangankunnu, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, and Kerala Kalamandalam.
Book Here: Thrissur Tour Packages
Athirapally
Athirapally Waterfalls is regarded as one of the finest waterfalls in India and is the largest waterfall in Kerala. This stunning waterfall is situated on the Chalakudy River at the entrance of the Sholayar hill range in the Thrissur district of Kerala. It cascades from a height of 80 feet through multiple streams, providing breathtaking scenic beauty. During the monsoon season, the water gains strength, and all the streams converge, resembling the grandeur of Niagara Falls. Visitors can reach the top of the falls with a short 15-minute walk from the entrance. This vantage point offers spectacular views of the Sholayar hills and a unique perspective of the waterfall itself. A trek of approximately 10-15 minutes down from the top leads to the base of the falls, where one can truly appreciate the waterfall’s magnificence. Swimming is permitted in the stream at the bottom of the falls. Nearby attractions that can be explored as part of the Athirapally tour packages include Vazhachal Waterfalls, Chapra Falls, Anakkayam, Sholayar Dam, Valparai, and the Malayattur Wildlife Sanctuary.
Must Visit: Waterfalls near Kochi
Trivandrum
Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital of the state of Kerala and the headquarters of Thiruvananthapuram district. It is also one of the popular pilgrimage sites in India. The city once formed a part of the kingdom of Travancore, which had its capital at Padmanabhapuram. Even now most of the buildings in the city possess the royal heritage of the Travancore Kings. Trivandrum is a popular medical tourism destination and is also considered as one of the cleanest cities in India. Trivandrum is famous for its enchanting tourist spots including internationally renowned beaches like Kovalam, historic monuments with Gothic architecture, lakes / backwaters, unexplored mountain ranges etc. Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Napier Museum, Kanakakkunnu Palace, Science and Technology Museum, Kowdiar Palace, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, Happyland Amusement Park, etc. are some of the top tourist places in Trivandrum.
Book Here: Trivandrum Tour Packages
Similar posts:
7 Most Spectacular Boat Races in Kerala
7 Most Famous Beaches near Wayanad
Amazing Places to Visit in Kerala in Monsoon
Beautiful Honeymoon Destinations in Kerala
9 Popular Caves in Maharashtra You Must Visit
Most Popular Trekking Trails in Wayanad
Beautiful Hill Stations near Manali for a Peaceful Vacay
Most Popular Things to do in Shimla
Best Unexplored Places in Wayanad
Spectacular Offbeat Places to visit in Manali
3 thoughts on “10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kerala”
Comments are closed.