If India had a crown of natural beauty, Kerala would be the jewel shimmering along its southwest coast. With its emerald backwaters, golden beaches, misty hills, and spice-laden air, people call this state ‘God’s Own Country’, and it’s hard to wonder why.
So, if you are planning a trip to this tropical paradise just to soak in its culture or sip that aromatic filter coffee, we’ve got you covered with a list of places to visit in Kerala.
Each spot on this guide comes with its own charm, story, and soul.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala
So book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the best places to visit in Kerala, India.
1. Kochi (or Cochin)
Chances are, if you are planning to visit Kerala, you’ll touch down in Kochi. And instantly, you’ll fall in love with its easygoing vibe. First off, Kochi is extremely walkable, which makes it fun to explore. Secondly, this city has a mix of experiences readily on offer. On a laid-back day, you can take a dip at Fort Kochi Beach in the morning, visit Paradesi Synagogue in the afternoon, and sip artisanal coffee in cafes that used to be Dutch warehouses by the time dusk hits the sky. It’s truly one of the best places to visit in Kerala.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kochi is served by the Cochin International Airport (CIAL), located about 25 km from the city center. It’s well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru, as well as international destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
- By Rail: The city has two main railway stations, Ernakulam Junction (South) and Ernakulam Town (North). Both are major stops on India’s southern railway network, linking Kochi to cities like Trivandrum, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
- By Road: Kochi is accessible via NH 66 and NH 544, connecting it to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states.
Highlights: Mattancherry Palace, St. Francis CSI Church, Hill Palace Museum, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Paradesi Synagogue, Cherai Beach, Fort Kochi Beach, and more.
2. Alleppey (or Alappuzha)
Chances are, when people picture Kerala tourist attractions, they’re probably imagining Alleppey’s backwaters. This place offers you the perfect excuse to glide through the extensive network of backwaters, system of canals, rivers, and lakes on a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat). As you head out on the waterways, you’ll witness paddy fields roll by and wave at kids heading to school in canoes.
If you are looking for a quieter, less touristy experience, try Kumarakom, just a few kilometers away from Alleppey.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 83 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Alleppey in around two hours.
- By Rail: Alleppey has its own railway station, well-connected to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Chennai, and Bangalore.
- By Road: Located on NH 66, Alleppey is easily accessible by road from cities such as Kochi (53 km) and Trivandrum (150 km).
Highlights: Alappuzha Light House, Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum, Alappuzha Beach, Alleppey Backwaters, and more.
3. Thiruvananthapuram (or Trivandrum)
Kerala’s capital mixes ancient heritage with modern bustle. Many people simply visit this city because it offers easy access to the nearby beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, but Thiruvananthapuram is a gem in its own right. It has good food and some of the best places to visit in Kerala (including a zoo and one of the richest temples in the world).
How to Reach:
- By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is just 6 km from the city center and offers excellent connectivity to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, as well as international destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
- By Rail: Thiruvananthapuram Central is a major railway hub in South India, with regular trains from Kochi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
- By Road: The city is well-linked by NH 66 and NH 544, connecting it to key places to visit in Kerala, such as Kollam, Alleppey, and Kochi.
Highlights: Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, Shangumugham Beach, Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Kovalam Beach, and more.
4. Kollam
One of the oldest ports in the Arabian Sea and one of the best tourist places in Kerala, Kollam is where the backwaters meet the sea. Take a boat cruise from Kollam to Alleppey and you’ll soon realize it’s one of the longest and most scenic routes in Kerala. But that’s not all, Kollam has some of the most bedazzling beaches on the Kerala coast, dotted with lighthouses, cafes, and parks. It also celebrates the vibrant Kollam Pooram annually, where you’ll get to see processions, fireworks, and cultural performances.
Oh, and if you’re a cashew fan, this city practically runs on them.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 65 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Kollam in roughly two hours.
- By Rail: Kollam Junction (Quilon) is one of the oldest and busiest railway stations in Kerala, well-connected to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Chennai, and Bangalore. Several express and passenger trains halt here daily.
- By Road: Kollam lies along NH 66, offering smooth connectivity to Kerala tourist attractions such as Alleppey and Trivandrum.
Highlights: Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Beach, Thangassery Light House, Thirumullavaram Beach, Palaruvi Waterfalls, and more.
5. Kozhikode
Did you know Kozhikode is where Vasco da Gama first set foot in India? It’s also the birthplace of the iconic Malabar Biryani and even lent its name to the famous Calico cloth. With such a rich legacy woven into India’s history, Kozhikode is worthy of being listed among the top 10 tourist destinations in Kerala.
There are plenty of things to do in this place. You can take a walk along the beach, explore the centuries-old Mishkal Mosque, or dig into a plate of hot banana chips fresh from a street vendor – all on a single afternoon.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Kozhikode International Airport (also known as Calicut International Airport) is located about 30 km from the city center.
- By Rail: Kozhikode Railway Station is a major stop on the Southern Railway line, with direct trains from Kochi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai.
- By Road: Situated along NH 66, Kozhikode is well-connected by road to Kochi, Mangalore, and Thrissur.
Highlights: Tali Maha Shiva Kshetram, Kozhikode Beach, Mishkal Mosque, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, and more.
6. Bekal
Remember the song “Tu Hi Re” from Bombay? Well, it was shot here at one of the most well-known landmarks of Bekal, the Bekal Fort. This small town is perched at the northernmost shore of the state and surrounded by pristine beaches, majestic forts, clear backwaters, and natural caves. It’s among the most underrated places to visit in Kerala.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, around 65 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bekal; the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours along a picturesque coastal route.
- By Rail: Bekal is served by two nearby railway stations, Kasaragod (12 km away) and Kanhangad (14 km away). Both stations are well-connected to major cities like Kochi, Mangalore, Chennai, and Bangalore.
- By Road: Bekal lies on NH 66, making it easily accessible from Mangalore, Kannur, and other Kerala tourist attractions in the Malabar region.
Highlights: Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, Chandragiri Fort, Hosdurg Beach, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, and more.
7. Varkala
While some may say the best beaches in India are in Goa, they have not seen Varkala. With clean and golden beaches, it’s hard to deny why this place is a popular place to visit in Kerala, India. Here you can find cafes overlooking cliffs, yoga studios, and a relaxed beach culture, making it perfect for travelers who prefer tranquility with a side of bohemian flair.
Plus, don’t forget to visit the mineral springs here, which are said to have healing properties (locals call them “holy waters”).
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about one hour away.
- By Rail: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station connects the town to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Chennai, and Bangalore. It’s just 2 km from the beach area, making it convenient for travelers arriving by train.
- By Road: Varkala is well-connected by NH 66 and state highways to Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and other places to visit in Kerala.
Highlights: Sivagiri Mutt, Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple, The Black Sand Beach Varkala, and more.
8. Thrissur
Known as Kerala’s cultural capital, Thrissur hosts the famous Thrissur Pooram, a festival so grand it makes Mardi Gras look shy. You’ll get to witness dozens of caparisoned elephants, drum performances that shake the ground, and fireworks that light up the night sky.
Besides the festival, this city is also famous for its ancient temples and a thriving art scene.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located about 55 km away.
- By Rail: Thrissur Railway Station is one of Kerala’s busiest, with regular trains connecting it to Kochi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai.
- By Road: Thrissur sits on NH 544 and NH 66, ensuring smooth connectivity to major Kerala tourist attractions and cities like Kochi and Palakkad.
Highlights: Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple, Thiruvambady SreeKrishna Temple, Our Lady of Dolours Basilica, and more.
9. Vagamon
Mist-covered meadows, pine forests, and tea gardens – this hill station is no stranger to keeping you in awe with its natural wonders. Though it’s a lesser-visited Kerala tourist attraction than its other crowded counterparts (we’re looking at you, Munnar), Vagamon is equally as enthralling.
It’s a dream escape for solitude seekers. And, if you like paragliding or offbeat hiking trails, this one’s just the place for you.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 94 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Vagamon in approximately 3 to 4 hours through scenic hill routes.
- By Rail: The closest railway stations are Kottayam (63 km) and Changanassery (70 km). Both are well-connected to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Chennai.
- By Road: Vagamon is well-linked by road to Kottayam, Thekkady, and other best tourist places in Kerala.
Highlights: Thangalpara, Vagamon Meadows, and Vagamon Lake.
10. Wayanad
From hidden waterfalls to ancient Edakkal Caves with Stone Age carvings, Wayanad is Kerala’s wild heart. Its main draw, however, is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Spreading over 345 sq km, here you can spot langurs, chital deer, sambar, peacocks, wild boar, or wild elephants. And if you are lucky enough, you might get to witness a tiger or a leopard.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode), about 90 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Wayanad in around 3 – 4 hours through lush green hill roads.
- By Rail: Wayanad doesn’t have its own railway station. The nearest major stations are Kozhikode (85 km), Mysore (120 km), and Kannur (110 km).
- By Road: Wayanad is well-connected by road to major Kerala tourist attractions and nearby cities like Kozhikode, Mysore, and Bangalore. NH 766 runs through the district, offering a scenic and smooth drive across the Western Ghats.
Highlights: Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Banasura Sagar Dam, Kottiyoor temple, and more.
11. Munnar
Munnar is postcard-perfect – rolling tea gardens, clouds that brush the hills, and a smell of cardamom that seems to follow you everywhere. It’s got all that, but also… there are crowds and traffic jams. So if you truly want to experience Munnar in its most pristine state, book a hotel just a few miles out of the center.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 100 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus; the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours through winding hill roads and scenic valleys.
- By Rail: Munnar doesn’t have a railway station. The closest ones are Aluva (110 km) and Ernakulam (130 km), both well-connected to major Indian cities.
- By Road: Munnar is easily accessible by road from Kochi, Thekkady, and other best places to visit in Kerala.
Highlights: Eravikulam National Park, Munnar Rose Garden, Mattupetty Dam, Top Station, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Tata Tea Museum, Anamudi Peak, and more.
12. Plakkad
Often overlooked, Palakkad is the kind of place that surprises you. It’s home to the majestic Palakkad Fort, built by Hyder Ali, and lush paddy fields that stretch to the horizon. It’s also famous for traditional Carnatic music and Ayurveda centers.
And if you time it right, you can experience the Kalpathy Ratholsavam, a ten-day annual chariot festival full of music, performances, and processions.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, located about 65 km away. From there, taxis and buses are available to reach Palakkad in roughly 1.5 hours. Cochin International Airport (about 110 km) is another convenient option.
- By Rail: Palakkad Junction is a major railway station in Kerala, well-connected to cities like Kochi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai.
- By Road: Situated along NH 544, Palakkad enjoys excellent road connectivity to Thrissur, Coimbatore, and other places to visit in Kerala.
Highlights: Palakkad Fort, Kalpathy Temple, Dhoni Waterfalls, and more.
13. Thekkady
Thekkady smells like a spice rack… literally. Visit one of its spice plantations to see pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon growing in the wild, and you’ll understand why. It’s also the gateway to Periyar, Kerala’s famous tiger reserve, and one of the best places to visit in Kerala for wildlife lovers. Take a boat ride on Lake Periyar and keep your eyes peeled for elephants, bison, and, if you’re very lucky, a tiger lounging in the sun.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport in Tamil Nadu, about 140 km away. Cochin International Airport (around 145 km) is another good option.
- By Rail: The closest railway stations are Kottayam (110 km) and Madurai (135 km). Both are well-connected to major cities like Kochi, Chennai, and Bangalore.
- By Road: Thekkady is well-connected by road to Munnar, Kottayam, and other best tourist places in Kerala.
Highlights: Periyar National Park, The Tribal Heritage Museum, and more.
Places to Visit in Kerala with Family
Kerala is family-friendly to the core. Kids love the backwaters of Alleppey, while parents unwind in the calm of Munnar. Wayanad and Thekkady offer nature treks, while Kochi and Trivandrum mix culture with leisure. No wonder these are among the best tourist places in Kerala for families looking for a balance of relaxation and discovery.
Best Time to Go to Kerala
The best time to go to Kerala is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the backwaters are at their calmest. If you love the rain (and discounted stays), visit during the monsoon months from June to August.
But if you like that winter charm in the hilly areas, the best month to visit Kerala would be November or December, offering a perfect mix of weather and festivities.
Travel Tips Before Visiting Kerala
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples.
- Try local transport as ferries, tuk-tuks, and trains are all part of the fun.
- Book houseboats in advance during peak season.
- Don’t skip the local food such as banana fritters, Kerala fish curry, and appam-stew, which are must-tries.
- Carry mosquito repellent, especially if you are traveling during the monsoon.
- Respect nature. Kerala is clean and green, so keep it that way.
Final Thought
Kerala is a place where every corner hums with stories of spice traders, saints, and sea breezes. So, pack light, ditch your itinerary once in a while, and let Kerala show you why it’s truly God’s Own Country.
