Kerala, sometimes referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a patchwork of verdant landscapes, tranquil backwaters, and a rich cultural legacy. This southern gem offers something for everyone, whether you’re a family searching for comfortable retreats or a lone backpacker searching for hidden tourist spots in Kerala. Let’s examine the Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala. We’ll also highlight Kerala’s most stunning locations that you simply must see, as well as low-cost tourist destinations for budget-conscious tourists. For those who would rather have professional advice, think about making a reservation with Noble House Tours Pvt. Ltd., a reputable company that specializes in carefully planned itineraries for Kerala tourist destinations.
List of the Best Places to Visit in Kerala
1. Munnar – A Picturesque Hill Station
Unquestionably one of the most beautiful places in Kerala, Munnar is tucked away at an elevation of more than 1,600 meters. It is one of the best places to visit in Kerala because of its cool climate, mist-kissed mountains, and rolling tea plantations. Among the main draws are –
- Eravikulam National Park – This sanctuary of shola forests and grasslands is home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr.
- Tea Museum and Estates – Explore the emerald-green tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process at the Tea Museum and Estates.
- Mattupetty Dam – With its boating facilities and expansive views, this place is ideal for a family outing.
Munnar accommodates everyone, whether you’re on a tight budget or treating yourself to a five-star resort. Because of its popularity, the town can get crowded during the busiest times of the year. To avoid this, make plans in advance or work with Noble House Tours Pvt. Ltd. to find unusual lodging.
2. Alleppey (Alappuzha) – The Backwater Capital
Alleppey’s extensive system of lagoons and canals is a top destination on the list of the best places to visit in Kerala if you’re looking for a traditional Kerala experience. Anyone visiting Kerala’s tourist attractions must rent a traditional houseboat. Highlights consist of –
- Houseboat Cruises – Travel through villages, paddy fields, and coconut groves.
- Alleppey Beach – The Beach is a calm location for views of the sunrise and sunset, making it one of the great places to visit in Kerala with family.
- Vembanad Lake – Budget-friendly kayaking and canoeing are available at India’s longest lake, Vembanad Lake.
The ancient Kuttanad region dubbed the “Rice Bowl of Kerala,” is one of the hidden tourist destinations in Kerala that can be found in Alleppey. Consider visiting Kerala during the off-season in July and August, when there are many Low budget tourist places in Kerala packages available, if you’re on a tight budget.
3. Kochi (Cochin) – A Blend of Cultures
With influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British eras, Cochin is a cultural melting pot. Kochi, one of the Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala, combines art, history, and cuisine. Important locations include –
- Fort Kochi – Explore Fort Kochi’s colonial-era structures, spice bazaars, and recognizable Chinese fishing nets.
- Jewish Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace – See the elaborate murals and Jewish heritage at the Jewish Synagogue and Mattancherry Palace.
- Kathakali Performances – Experience Kerala’s traditional dance style at Kathakali Performances, a must-see for anyone interested in culture.
Unique places to visit in Kerala include Kochi’s flourishing art scene, which includes the biennial Kochi-Muziris Festival. Check out the carefully chosen routes offered by Noble House Tours Pvt. Ltd. for a smooth travel experience that blends contemporary luxury with historical insights.
4. Thekkady – Adventure Amidst Wildlife
Thekkady is a paradise for those who love wildlife. This hill station, which is part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is home to the serene Periyar Lake, spice plantations, and thick forests. If you’re seeking adventure and biodiversity, Thekkady is one of Kerala’s top tourist destinations.
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Take a boat safari to see bison, tigers, and elephants along the lake’s edge.
- Spice Plantation Tours – Thekkady’s plantations provide guided walks and tasting sessions, and Kerala is known for its spices.
- Trekking and Bamboo Rafting – Trekking and bamboo rafting are environmentally friendly pursuits that allow you to get close to the natural world.
Thekkady is a great choice for family vacation spots in Kerala because it provides kid-friendly activities. Dormitory-style lodges close to the reserve are among the low-cost tourist destinations in Kerala that are suitable for those on a tight budget.
5. Wayanad – An Offbeat Highland Escape
Wayanad is a top choice among Kerala hidden tourist places because of its rolling hills, historic caves, and tribal culture. Wayanad, one of Kerala’s Top 10 Destinations, draws tourists seeking both adventure and tranquility –
- Edakkal Caves – Discover the more than 6,000-year-old petroglyphs at the Edakkal Caves.
- Banasura Sagar Dam – The largest earthen dam in India, Banasura Sagar Dam, is situated against the verdant Western Ghats.
- Chembra Peak – For sweeping views, hike to the heart-shaped lake known as “Hridaya Saras.”
Wayanad offers a wide variety of eco-lodges and homestays that meet the requirements for low budget tourist places in Kerala. Noble House Tours Pvt. Ltd. provides trekking and cultural immersion experiences for a more complex itinerary.
6. Kovalam – Sun-Kissed Beaches
Kovalam is one of Kerala’s most picturesque locations because of its crescent-shaped beaches, lighthouses, and Ayurvedic resorts. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it one of Kerala’s top destinations for those looking for peace, sun, and sand –
- Lighthouse Beach – Famous for its Aggarwal-style lighthouse that provides expansive views of the coastline.
- Hawa Beach – Well-known for its water sports and tiny fishing communities.
- Samudra Beach – A calmer location ideal for unwinding and receiving Ayurvedic massages.
Kovalam is a must-see destination for families traveling to Kerala because it offers beachside picnics and boat rides for dolphin viewing. Beachfront hostels and guesthouses are among Kerala’s low-cost tourist destinations for astute tourists, offering cozy accommodations without exorbitant costs.
7. Bekal – The Majestic Fort and Seaside Retreat
Bekal, located in the northern region of Kerala, is still largely undiscovered, which confirms its reputation as a Kerala hidden tourist place. One of the biggest forts in the area is Bekal Fort, its main attraction, and the nearby beaches provide breathtaking views –
- Bekal Fort – Bekal Fort is a 17th-century fort featuring observation towers, tunnels, and expansive views of the Arabian Sea.
- Dharmadam Island – This island is perfect for picnics and bird watching, and it is reachable by boat.
- Vellarikundu – The tranquil inland town of Vellarikundu is well-known for its spice gardens and ecotourism.
Bekal’s quirky charm and reasonably priced lodging make it one of Kerala’s most distinctive tourist destinations. Noble House Tours Pvt. Ltd. offers personalized packages that incorporate fort explorations and sunset cruises for a guided itinerary.
8. Thrissur – Cultural Capital
Thrissur, which is frequently referred to as the “Cultural Capital of Kerala,” is at its best during the festival season. Despite being well-known for the Thrissur Pooram, the city’s vibrant culture makes it one of the best places to visit in Kerala –
- Vadakkumnathan Temple – The ancient Shiva temple known as Vadakkumnathan Temple has traditional Keralan architecture.
- Guruvayur Temple – The Guruvayur Temple is a significant place of worship for Lord Krishna.
- Sakthan Thampuran Palace – Contains art panels and a museum dedicated to folklore.
The art galleries and cultural fairs in Thrissur give visitors a genuine taste of Keralan customs. The city’s parks and museums will appeal to families, making it a popular choice for places to visit in Kerala with family.
9. Varkala – Cliffs, Beaches, and Spiritual Retreats
Varkala stands out as one of the most beautiful places in Kerala due to its distinctive cliffside setting. Its cliff line, which runs alongside the Arabian Sea, provides breathtaking sunset views –
- Papanasam Beach – A revered beach where pilgrims use the natural spring waters to carry out rituals.
- Janardhana Swamy Temple – The 2,000-year-old Janardhana Swamy Temple attracts worshippers all year long
- Yoga and Ayurvedic Centers – Varkala’s wellness scene gives any Kerala travel itinerary a more comprehensive feel.
Varkala is one of the low budget tourist places in Kerala because of its beach huts and cliffside guesthouses. The contrast between the sea and the cliffs at Varkala is unrivaled if you’re looking for unusual places to visit in Kerala.
10. Kumarakom – Backwater Serenity
A sanctuary of peace and biodiversity, Kumarakom is situated on the shores of Vembanad Lake. This location, which is among the Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala, is popular with those looking for serene waters and opportunities for birdwatching –
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – From November to February, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds, including painted and Siberian storks.
- Luxurious Backwater Resorts – Wake up to the sound of birds and soft ripples while staying in a cottage with a view of the lake.
- Village Walks – Take a bicycle or foot tour of neighboring villages to observe traditional fishing and coir-making.
One of Kerala’s top destinations for couples and nature lovers, Kumarakom offers a unique combination of leisure and rustic charm. Noble House Tours Pvt. Ltd. provides cultural excursions, birding tours, and backwater cruises for a well-planned stay.
Conclusion
These Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala accommodate all traveler tastes and budgets, from the misty hills of Munnar to the sun-drenched beaches of Kovalam. This guide lists options for every taste, whether you’re looking for Kerala hidden tourist spots or are organizing a family vacation. Travelers on a tight budget will find comfort in Kerala’s low-cost tourist destinations, while those who long for unspoiled scenery can indulge in the state’s most stunning locations.
Consider collaborating with Noble House Tours Pvt. Ltd. to streamline logistics and acquire a deeper understanding of the local way of life. Their specially designed Kerala travel packages guarantee a smooth, engaging, and remarkable Kerala experience. Gather your belongings and set out on an odyssey through South India that will captivate your heart and spirit.
