Written by Anish Kumar P.K, founder of The Travel Planners and inbound tour specialist with 26 years of experience handling international travellers to India.
Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” is famous for its serene backwaters, lush hill stations, and pristine beaches. While destinations like Munnar, Alleppey, and Kovalam attract most travellers, there is another side of Kerala that remains largely unexplored. Hidden villages, untouched waterfalls, quiet hill trails, and less commercialised coastal stretches offer a more authentic and peaceful travel experience.
For those planning Kerala tour packages, adding these hidden gems can transform a standard holiday into a truly memorable journey. These lesser-known locations not only provide scenic beauty but also allow visitors to experience local culture, traditions, and nature in its purest form. Unlike crowded tourist hotspots, these places offer tranquillity and a deeper connection with Kerala’s natural landscape.
In this guide, we explore some of the most beautiful hidden places you can include in Kerala trip packages for a unique and refreshing travel experience.
Meesapulimala: The Hidden Trekking Paradise
Located near Munnar, Meesapulimala is one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats. Unlike the crowded viewpoints of Munnar, this destination offers a peaceful trekking experience through misty hills, grasslands, and shola forests.
Key highlights:
- Moderate trekking routes for adventure lovers
- Panoramic views of valleys and tea estates
- Rich biodiversity and rare flora
- Ideal for camping and nature photography
This is perfect for travellers looking to add adventure to their Kerala tour packages.
Kumbalangi: Kerala’s First Model Tourism Village
Kumbalangi, near Kochi, is a peaceful fishing village that showcases authentic Kerala coastal life. It is often overlooked by mainstream tourists.
What makes it special:
- Traditional Chinese fishing nets
- Canoe rides through narrow canals
- Local seafood experiences
- Sustainable village tourism model
Visitors get a real glimpse into rural Kerala life, making it a cultural highlight in any itinerary.
Marottichal Waterfalls: The Silent Beauty
Located near Thrissur, Marottichal Waterfalls is a hidden gem surrounded by dense forests and calm surroundings.
Why visit:
- Two beautiful waterfall sections
- Natural bathing pools
- Peaceful forest atmosphere
- Less crowded compared to popular waterfalls
These Kerala tourism packages are ideal for travellers seeking relaxation and nature immersion.
Gavi: The Untouched Eco-Tourism Forest
Gavi, located in Pathanamthitta district, is one of Kerala’s most pristine eco-tourism destinations. It remains relatively untouched by commercial tourism.
Top experiences:
- Wildlife spotting, including elephants and deer
- Boat rides on Gavi Lake
- Dense forest trekking
- Eco-friendly accommodation options
Gavi is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Silent Valley National Park: A Biodiversity Hotspot
Silent Valley is one of the most ecologically significant rainforests in India. It is located in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Key attractions:
- Rare and endangered wildlife species
- Dense tropical evergreen forests
- Guided trekking routes
- UNESCO-recognised ecological importance
This destination adds a strong ecological dimension to Kerala travel packages.
Ponmudi: The Lesser-Known Hill Station
Ponmudi is a quiet hill station near Thiruvananthapuram, often overshadowed by Munnar and Wayanad.
Highlights of these tour packages in Kerala:
- Scenic winding mountain roads
- Tea gardens and mist-covered valleys
- Cool and pleasant climate
- Ideal for short weekend getaways
It offers a peaceful alternative to Kerala’s more commercial hill stations.
Kakkathuruthu Island: The Hidden Backwater Gem
Kakkathuruthu, also known as “Island of Crows,” is a small island in the Alappuzha backwaters.
Why it stands out:
- Unique sunset views over backwaters
- Traditional village lifestyle
- Canoe rides through narrow canals
- Recognised by international travel publications
This is one of Kerala’s most photogenic hidden destinations.
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary: Offbeat Jungle Escape
Located in Kannur, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is a lesser-known forest reserve with rich biodiversity.
What you can experience:
- Trekking through dense forests
- Spotting wildlife like elephants and gaurs
- Seasonal butterfly migrations
- Guided eco-tours
It is ideal for offbeat wildlife tourism.
Vypin Island: A Quiet Coastal Escape
Vypin Island near Kochi offers a calm and less commercialised beach experience.
Key attractions:
- Long sandy beaches with fewer crowds
- Fishing villages and local life
- Lighthouse views at Cherai Beach nearby
- Sunset photography spots
Perfect for those seeking coastal relaxation without tourist rush.
Nelliampathy: The Forgotten Hill Range
Nelliampathy in Palakkad is a scenic hill station surrounded by tea and coffee plantations.
Why include it:
- Dense forests and wildlife
- Tea and coffee estate views
- Hairpin bends with scenic drives
- Cool climate throughout the year
It remains one of Kerala’s most underrated destinations.
Conclusion
Kerala is far more than its famous tourist hotspots. Its hidden villages, untouched forests, quiet islands, and lesser-known hill stations offer a deeper and more authentic travel experience. Including these destinations in Kerala tour packages allows travellers to explore the state beyond the usual itinerary, creating memories that are peaceful, personal, and unique.
For those looking to design a customised Kerala journey that blends popular attractions with hidden gems, expert planning makes all the difference. You can explore our well-curated travel options and personalised itineraries at Kerala tour packages.
About Anish Kumar P.K
I’m Anish Kumar P.K, Founder and CEO of The Travel Planners, with over 26 years of experience creating customized Kerala holiday experiences. With in-depth knowledge of destinations, attractions, hotels, and dependable local support, we’re here to help you plan a seamless trip. Contact us anytime to start planning your Kerala journey.
