Top 12 Best Places to Visit in Kerala

Deciding on where to travel next? Then Kerala should be on top of your travel bucket list. This South Indian state has earned a well-deserved spot on the New York Times’ list of 52 places to visit in 2023, landing at an impressive 13th place. Interestingly, Kerala is the only Indian state to make the list. ( New York Times’ list of 52 places to visit in 2023.)

Over the years, the number of visitors to Kerala has seen a notable rise, despite the setbacks of recent pandemic lockdowns. In 2022 alone, Kerala welcomed over 15 million tourists. As you explore Kerala, you’ll be greeted by bushes of green and serene blue waters that perfectly capture why it’s known as ‘God’s own country.’ ( source )

Top 12 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Kerala

Munnar

Alappy

Kumarakam

Thekkady

Wayanad

Kochi

Varkkala

Kovalam

Trivandrum

Bekkal

Vagamon

Thrissur

Kerala Tourism Overview

Category	Attractions/Activities
Popular Beaches in Kerala	Kizhunna Beach, Thottada Beach, Thalassery, Chaliyan Beach, Chembirikka Beach, Varkala Beach, Kovalam Beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, Kollam Beach, Kozhikode Beach, Poovar Beach, Cherai Beach, Beypore Beach, Kannur Beach
Kerala Heritage Attractions	Padmanabhapuram Palace, Arakkal Palace, Kilimanoor Palace, Palakkad Fort, Poonjar Palace, Krishnapuram Palace, Kuthiramalika Palace, Kollengode Palace
Must-Visit Waterfalls in Kerala	Athirappilly Waterfalls, Vazhachal Waterfalls, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, Thoovanam Waterfalls
Top Tourist Destinations in Kerala	Munnar, Wayanad, Kumarakom, Kovalam, Kochi, Periyar, Alleppey, Thekkady, Bekal
Top Things to Do in Kerala	Camping, Trekking, Watersports, Mountain Biking, Zip-Lining, Cruising, Houseboat Stay, Ayurvedic Spa, Wildlife Safari
Best Time to Visit Kerala	October to March (for pleasant weather), June to August (for monsoon experience)
Cuisine to Try in Kerala	Appam, Puttu, Kerala Sadya, Karimeen Pollichathu, Malabar Biryani, Kappa, Meen Curry
Popular Festivals in Kerala	Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, Theyyam, Kerala Boat Races, Christmas

While the list of must-visit destinations in Kerala is extensive, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 12 places you should definitely consider. Let us take a look at each spot one-by-one.

Place 1: Munnar

Kerala’s Hidden Gems in the Western Ghats: A Comprehensive Traveller’s Guide for A Memorable Kerala Trip

We’ll start off with one of the most famous tourist attractions – Munnar. Often referred to as the ‘Kashmir of the South,’ it lives up to its name. With over 60 million visitors annually, this place is entitled as the most popular tourist destination in Kerala.

Major Tourist Attractions in Munnar

Tea Estates – The tea plantations covered in green on the rolling hills will greet you first. You can drop by the tea museum to go through the displays of tea production, the machinery involved and its history.

Hill Stations – Take a tour up the hill stations and relish in the drop of temperature.

Attukal Waterfalls – A Splash in the waterfall in the cold climate might leave you with chills, but you never know, until you try so.

Echo point – Check out this viewpoint and shout out your name, your voice will reverberate back. This happens due to the natural acoustic properties of the surrounding hills.

Eravikulam National Park – Also known as the Rajamalai National Park, this protected area is a home to various flora and fauna including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat. Similarly you can visit – Kurinjimala and Chinnar wildlife sanctuaries.

Top station – Break a sweat, trek and get to the top, beautiful scenery awaits at the end of your climbing journey – a 360 degree view of the Western Ghats, borders of Tamil Nadu and the distant arabia Sea.

Kundala lake – From 15 kms into Munnar, You can locate this eye-pleasing lake for a pleasant evening boating.

Mattupetty Dam – It is centered 13 kms into Munnar town, The area around the dam is great for boating, fishing and picnics.

Pothamedu Viewpoint – Just 6 kms away from Munnar town, this is another viewpoint you can make time for.

Weather

Summer (Mar-Jun): 23°C to 36°C, with mild mornings and evenings.

Monsoon (Jul-Sep): 23°C to 34°C, moderate to heavy rain.

Winter (Nov-Feb): 10°C to 25°C, cool and perfect for sightseeing.

Tour Package: 2 Nights & 3 Days Munnar Tour Package

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Munnar is from November to February. Weather is chill even when you’re downhill. No heatstroke is getting in the way of your group activities during these months.

Accommodation Options

Explore a variety of stays, from budget to luxury, to suit different preferences.

Budget: Greenberg Resort, Munnar Tourist Home.

Mid-Range: Hotel Hillview, The Silver Tips.

Luxury: Tea County, Carmelia Haven.

Suggested Reading: Best Hotels in Munnar

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Cochin International Airport, 110 km from Munnar; taxis and private vehicles available.

Rail: Aluva station, 110 km away; taxis and buses available.

Road: Well-connected by road; private cabs, buses, and taxis serve the area.

Place 2: Alleppey

Alappuzha now called Alleppey is a famous tourist spot in Kerala. The place is also known as the ‘ Venice of the East ‘ due to its backwaters and the houseboats sailing across them. The coir manufacturing industry is highlighted apart from the water activities.

Major Tourist Attractions

Backwater Cruises – The water rides across the lakes surrounded by greens are the major highlight here.

Alleppey Beach – The place is not just overflowing with lakes, the Alappuzha beach front can also engage you anyday.

Vembanad Lake – The largest lake in Kerala, it stretches across several districts in almost 200 sq km and is a central feature of the backwater cruises .

Karumadi Kuttan – An ancient Buddhist statue located near the village of Karumadi, this historical site adds a cultural touch to your visit.

Pathiramanal Island – Alleppey is a fusion of water bodies and different landshores. Take a boat trip to access this small island in Vembanad lake.

Alleppey Museum – A place of run-down for history with ancient art and cultural artifacts.

Weather

Summer (Mar-Jun): 25°C to 35°C, hot and humid.

Monsoon (Jul-Sep): 25°C to 30°C, heavy rain, lush scenery.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 20°C to 32°C, great for backwater activities

Tour Package: Kerala Honeymoon Packages in India: Munnar & Alleppey

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Alleppey is from October to February. During this timeframe, the weather is comfortable and dry, perfect for relaxing in the backwaters and enjoying outdoor activities.

Accommodation Options

Choose from budget stays to luxury experiences, each offering different features.

Budget: Mannath House, Tharavadu Heritage Home.

Mid-Range: Lake Palace Resort, Pagoda Resorts.

Luxury: Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey, Lake Canopy.

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Cochin International Airport, 85 km away; taxis and private vehicles available.

Rail: Alleppey railway station with connections to major cities.

Road: Well-connected; private cabs, buses, and taxis widely available.

Festivals

The main festival here is Vallom Kali, the annual boat race. It is held during the Onam mostly during the months of August or September, many tune in to watch who races to the finish to earn the famous Nehru Trophy.

Place 3: Kumarakom

Kumarakom is declared as a special tourism zone by the Kerala state government. The backwaters and wet-land ecosystem are the ever-present attention seeker of every passerby. It has been recognized as the ‘Best Responsible Tourism project’ ( 2017 ) by Kerala tourism and ‘Top Destinations for Sustainable Tourism’ ( 2019) by Outlook Traveller.

Tourist Attractions

Backwater Cruises – Step into these water transports and take your time to relax. Gentle ripples of water and scenic surroundings will keep you sated.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – Pay a visit to the resident bird species at this sanctuary. There are over 180 domestic, wild & migratory birds from Siberia and Europe residing here.

Arthunkal Church – This historic church, also known as St. Andrew’s Forane Church is all set to impress you with its architecture and significant religious events.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls – Apart from forests, estates of rubber plantations neighbors this waterfalls

Bay Island Driftwood Museum – This museum displays an impressive collection of driftwood sculptures, showcasing the artistic use of natural materials.

Weather

Summer (Mar-Jun): 25°C to 35°C, warm and humid, intense heat.

Monsoon (Jul-Sep): 25°C to 30°C, heavy rains, enhanced scenery,

Winter (Oct-Feb): 20°C to 32°C, pleasant and cool

Tour Package: Luxury Tour Munnar & Kumarakom

Best Time to Visit

It’s not easy to beat the heat here during the summers. So while marking the dates on your calendar, make sure you visit Kumarakom during the winter.

Accommodation Options

Select from various accommodations, each with convincing amenities and experiences.

Budget: Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom Lake Resort.

Mid-Range: The Zuri Kumarakom, Abad Whispering Palms Lake Resort.

Luxury: Kumarakom Lake Resort, The Oberoi Vrinda.

Suggested Reading: Hotels for relaxing in Kumarakom

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Cochin International Airport, 85 km away; taxis and private vehicles available.

Rail: Nearest station is Kottayam, 16 km away; connections to major cities.

Road: Good road connectivity; private cabs, buses, and taxis commonly used.

Place 4: Thekkady

Fourth on the list is Thekkady. It is a popular hill station in the Idukki district with more than 40 million tourist visits a year. Thekkady is situated in the great Western Ghats. It is a prime destination to reconnect with nature and have an amazing holiday.

Tourist Attractions

Periyar National Park – This wildlife sanctuary spread over 900+ sq km is a home to many. You get to come across elephants, tigers and other mammals. You can also birdwatch more than 200+ different species.

Safari – Here you get to enjoy boat safaris on Bamboo rafts through the Periyar Lake. Try Partaking in the Periyar Tiger Trail, an event held from September to March with guided treks through the forest.

Spice Plantations – Thekkady is surrounded by spice plantations where tourists can take guided tours to learn about the history of spice cultivation. Cardamom, Cinnamon and pepper are the most grown spice categories here.

Kumily – A crowded town nearby, take part in the local scene of Thekkady and enjoy the shopping and dining options.

Murikady – A delightful village area which harbors great visuals of the Western Ghats.

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre – A cultural center showcasing Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form native to Kerala, with live demonstrations and performances.

Pandikuzhi – A similar village to Murikady but with an addition of the stunning Chellarkovil waterfalls.

Tribal Heritage Village – You can learn about the lifestyle, crafts, culture and history of indigenous tribe groups.

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 25°C to 35°C, warm, humid, and hot.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): 20°C to 30°C, heavy rain, possible travel disruptions.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 15°C to 25°C, cool and welcoming.

Best Time to Visit

The cool weather is not only ideal for us but also for the animal and bird varieties here. So if you want to catch a sight of these creatures, try coming down during October to February to this top wildlife destination in India.

Accommodation Options

Choose from a range of stays from budget-friendly to luxury, each with its own appeal.

Budget: Hotel Ambadi, Spice Village.

Mid-Range: Thekkady Wild Corridor, Elephant Court.

Luxury: Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, The Spice Route.

Suggested Reading: Best hotels to stay in Thekkady

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Cochin International Airport, 150 km away; taxis and buses available.

Rail: Nearest station is Kottayam, 114 km away; taxis and buses available.

Road: Easily-connected to major cities – Kochi, Kottayam and Munnar; private cabs, buses, and taxis commonly used.

Suggested Reading: Which places should I visit in Thekkady?

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Thekkady and Alleppey

Place 5: Wayanad

While the name Wayanad literally translates to ‘Vayal Nadu’ or “land of paddy fields,” the district is now predominantly characterized by other green layouts of hills, mountains and plantations. Almost 50% of the area is covered by forests. Wayanad is situated at an altitude ranging from 700 – 2100 meters above sea level.

Tourist Attractions

Edakkal Caves – Visit these to have a look at the ancient petroglyphs and prehistoric carvings. They are a symbolization of the region’s early human history.

Banasura Sagar Dam – It is the largest earthen dam in India, located among the hills. The sight from the top and nature in the radius of the dam is worth spending every minute.

Pookode Lake – A freshwater lake surrounded by forested hills. If boating is on your mind, then it is a must-try here.

Soochipara Falls – Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, Soochipara falls is a three-tiered waterfall. It is a refreshing scene that catches your attention after trekking and for swimming.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Wildlife sanctuaries are great initiations to protect and preserve the ecosystem. Munnar is a native to diverse categories of animals including elephants and tigers. Jeep safaris are available upon request.

Chembra Peak – This is the highest peak in Wayanad if you want to decide on trekking.

Pazhassi Raja Tomb – It is the historical tomb of a previous ruler – Pazhassi Raja. He was known as the lion of Kerala for his brave opposition against British Rule.

Kuruvadweep – Don’t forget to visit this Island located in the Kabini river.

Karaland Lake – This lake is mainly located for boating, fishing and side-walks.

Neelimala and Lakkidi viewpoints – Be witness to the amazing views of Meenmutty Waterfalls and the whole of Wayanad.

Tour Package: Wayanad Tour Packages – Bestsellers 2024

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 20°C to 35°C, warm and humid.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): 18°C to 28°C, heavy rain.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 15°C to 25°C, mild and comfortable.

Best Time to Visit

Munnar, too, is ideal to visit during cooler months of the year. The environment is a pleasant invite for outdoor group activities and sightseeing.

Accommodation Options

Here is a short list of accommodation you can refer

Budget: Green Gates Hotel, Vistara Resort.

Mid-Range: Wayanad Silverwoods, The Windflower Resort & Spa.

Luxury: Vythiri Resort, Banasura Hill Resort.

Suggested Reading: Best Hotels to stay in Wayanad

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Calicut International Airport, 100 km away; taxis and buses available.

Rail: Nearest station is Kozhikode, 70 km away; taxis and buses available.

Road: Private cabs, buses, and taxis are widely used for local travel.

Place 6: Kochi

Kochi, often referred to as Cochin, is located on the southwest coast of India. Since 1341, when a flood carved out its harbor and allowed Arab, Chinese, and European traders to access it, the location has served as a port. It is the financial, commercial and industrial capital of Kerala.

Tourist Attractions

Fort Kochi – A historic landmark area with colonial-era buildings and streets, and other sites such as the St. Francis Church – the oldest European Church in India built in 1503 and the Cemetery where Vasco De Gama was initially buried.

Chinese Fishing Nets – Introduced by the Chinese traders, these cantilevered fishing nets are almost near every waterbody in Kochi. It is a traditional method for fishing and is even common to households near lakes.

Mattancherry Palace – The colonial rulers knew how to leave their mark with mural paintings and artifacts. This place is also known as the Dutch palace

Jew Town – A historic neighborhood with antique shops and spice markets. The Jewish synagogue in the middle of the town area is a place of worship, renowned for its interior and antique chandeliers.

Marine Drive – A common spot of gathering for the natives and tourists.

Kerala Folklore Museum – Visit and indulge in the traditional Kerala art and culture showcased through an impressive collection of artifacts, costumes, and exhibits.

Santa Cruz Basilica – It is a famous church built by the Portuguese in the 16th century with Indo-european Gothic architecture.

Willingdon Island – It is India’s largest man-made island with an area of 775 acres. It was built in 1928 by Sir Robert Birstow. This artificial island now houses important port facilities, including the Kochi Naval Base, as well as the headquarters of the Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy.

Kumbalangi – This is an Island village situated in the outskirts of Kochi. It serves as a model tourism destination promoting Kerala’s village life experience.

Kadamakudy – It is a small archipelago or a cluster of 14 islands in Varapuzha. The main island is Valiya Kadamakudy.

Vypin Island – This island is a 27-kilometer stretch easily accessible via the Goshree bridges. The island is popular for Cherai Beach and Puthuvype Beach.

Tour Package: Kovalam Beach – Kochi Tourism – Kerala Tour Packages

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 25°C to 35°C, hot and humid.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): 24°C to 30°C, heavy rains.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 20°C to 30°C, mild and pleasant.

Best Time to Visit

The perfect time to visit Kochi is when the weather is a bit harsh on you as you might experience the heat as well. The city is more lively during the months of October and March.

Accommodation Options

Kochi has plenty of options when it comes to your budget and requirements.

Budget: Hotel Abad Plaza, Fort Heritage.

Mid-Range: The Malabar House, Gama Heritage Residency.

Luxury: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Le Meridien Kochi.

Suggested Reading: Top hotels to stay in Kochi

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Cochin International Airport, 30 km from the city center; domestic and international flights.

Rail: Kochi Railway Station, major hub with connections across India.

Road: Well-connected; state-run and private buses, and taxis available for local and inter-city travel.

Festivals

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) is an international contemporary art festival held every two years in Kochi, Kerala, showcasing works by Indian and international artists.

Cochin Carnival – Held in December, it includes vibrant parades, music, and dance, showcasing the festive spirit of the city.

Suggested Reading: Most Vibrant Festivals of Kerala

Place 7: Varkala

Located on the southwestern coast of Kerala, Varkala beholds the majestic view of the Arabian Sea. A popular destination among the domestic and international traveler, this coastal town cannot be excluded from our list. This

Tourist Attractions

Varkala Beach – A 15 m high varkala cliff and a beach underneath, that is the major attraction here. Sunbathe and swim, then you can enjoy tasty seafood from the beachside shacks. The beach has bagged the – 2015 ‘TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for Best Beaches Across the World.

Papanasam Beach – The name “Papanasam” originates from the Malayalam words “Papa” (sin) and “Nasam” (destruction), reflecting the belief that a dip in the beach’s sacred water washes away the sins and cleanses you.

Edava Beach – This is the third main beach of Varkala. This region is more secluded compared to the other two beaches.

Janardhana Swamy Temple – An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it presents Kerala’s rich spiritual heritage and traditional architecture of the previous monarchs.

Sivagiri Mutt – A prominent pilgrimage site, with a peaceful ambiance and educational facilities, this ashram is built and dedicated to Sree Narayana Guru prompting his values of social reform and spiritual growth.

Kappil Lake – A boat ride through this lake can be added to your itinerary while visiting Varkala.

Anjengo Fort – Anchuthengu ( name literally means ‘five ‘ coconut trees or Anjengo fort was constructed in 1965. This 150 feet tall fort served as a place of storing ammunition during the Anglo-Mysore wars.

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 27°C to 35°C, hot and humid.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): 25°C to 30°C, heavy rainfall.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 20°C to 30°C, mild and pleasant

Best Time to Visit

October to March, these months will be a better season to visit Varkala. Tourists mostly make a visit during this timeframe.

Accommodation Options

Find various options based on distinct benefits and comforts.

Budget: Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort, The Joys Resort.

Mid-Range: Hindustan Beach Retreat, Varkala Marine Palace.

Luxury: The O Hotel, Akhil Beach Resort.

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Trivandrum International Airport, 50 km away; flights to major cities and international destinations.

Rail: Varkala Sivagiri station, with good connectivity to Kerala and neighboring states.

Road: Accessible by road from Trivandrum; frequent buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws available for local travel.

Festivals

Christmas & New Year – The shacks and beach sides will be filled with activities and celebrations during these year-end occasions.

Varkala Sivagiri Pilgrimage – An annual event held in December, attracting devotees to the Sivagiri Mutt for spiritual activities and community events.

Place 8: Kovalam

Located near the city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam is a favorite destination for relaxation. More than 15 millions visitors similarly visit for the same. With clear sky and clear waters, this popular beach town anticipates your arrival.

Tourist Attractions

Hawa Beach – Known for its relaxed vibe and shallow waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It’s less crowded compared to other beaches in Kovalam.

Lighthouse Beach – The beach is crowded with shops and restaurants. It is mainly famous for the iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Arabian coastline.

Samudra Beach – A quieter beach for those looking to escape the crowds. It’s perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the seaside.

Kovalam Art Gallery – Showcases a collection of traditional and contemporary Indian art. A great spot to discover the local art scene.

Tour Packages: Kovalam Beach – Kochi Tourism

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 27°C to 35°C, hot and humid; avoid peak afternoon activities.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): 25°C to 30°C, heavy rain, rough seas, and occasional flooding.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 20°C to 30°C, cool and pleasant.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kovalam is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for beach activities and exploring the local area.

Accommodation Options

Here’s some choices for you based on features and budget.

Budget: Sea Face Inn, Horizon Beach Resort.

Mid-Range: The Travancore Heritage, Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa.

Luxury: The Leela Kovalam, Kovalam Beach Hotel.

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Trivandrum International Airport, 15 km away; domestic and international flights.

Rail: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station, 16 km away.

Road: Easily accessible by road; regular bus services and taxis available.

Place 9: Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)

Cultural Delights: Best Tourist Places in Kerala for Heritage and Tradition

Trivandrum, now known as Trivanthapuram is the capital of Kerala. Located on the southwestern coast of India, this city is a land of cultural landmarks, beaches, and modern development. The state capital city brings in more than 20 millions visitors around a year, and is crowded during the best time to visit Kerala.

Tourist Attractions

Padmanabhaswamy Temple: A sacred Hindu temple of Lord Vishnu, known for its golden exterior architecture and spiritual significance. It’s one of the richest temples in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Napier Museum: A 19th-century museum with Indo-saracenic architecture that showcases a collection of artifacts, including bronze idols, ancient instruments, and a temple chariot.

Kuthiramalika Palace: Also known as the Horse Palace, this historic structure is famous for its teak wooden carvings of horses and traditional Travancore architecture. It was built by Maharaja Swathi thirunal.

Trivandrum Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in India. It was built by the Maharaja of Tranvancore in 1857.

Shangumugham Beach: A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, it is perfect for enjoying the sunset and tasting local snacks from beach stalls.

Agastya Mala – Agasthyarkoodam or Agastya Mala, is a mountain peak in the Western Ghats of South India. Standing at 1,868 meters, it is the second-highest peak in Kerala.

Kerala State Science and Technology Museum (KSSTM) – This museum includes galleries, Priyadarshini hybrid planetarium, science park and libraries.

Tour Packages: Trivandrum Tour Packages Explore the Best of Kerala

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 28°C to 36°C, hot and humid.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): 25°C to 32°C, heavy rainfall.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 20°C to 30°C, pleasant weather.

Best Time to Visit

We’d recommend you to visit Trivandrum within the months of October to February. The weather is comfortable for strolling on the beach or on the sidewalks of the city.

Accommodation Options

We’ve got a short list of accommodations that might suit your preferences

Budget: Indrapuri Rajadhani, Hotel Saj Lucia.

Mid-Range: Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram, Hilton Garden Inn.

Luxury: Hyatt Regency Trivandrum, Hilton Thiruvananthapuram.

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Trivandrum International Airport, 7 km from the city center; domestic and international flights.

Rail: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station, major hub with nationwide connections.

Road: Well-maintained roads; regular buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws available.

Place 10: Bekal

Number 10 on our list of top 35 spots to visit in Kerala, we have Bekkal. It is situated in the northernmost district of Kerala, Kasaragod. Colonial constructions of the coastal fortress, marvelous beach surroundings and local food stalls all contribute to the popularity of this place. So if you are choosing family tour packages in Kerala, make sure you have this location.

Tourist Attractions

Bekal Fort: The highlight of Bekal, this 400-year-old fort is the largest in Kerala, spreading over 40 acres. The structure was built in 1650 by Shivappa Nayaka of Keladi. It was primarily built for defense purposes and later became a place of great strategic importance.

Bekal Beach: Adjacent to the fort, the Bekal beach is clean and less crowded. The windy atmosphere and calm setting helps you to settle down and relax.

Ranipuram: Located nearby, this hill station is perfect for trekking trips and nature enthusiasts, offering scenic views and green scenery. .

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 25°C to 35°C, hot and humid.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): 24°C to 29°C, heavy rainfall.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 20°C to 30°C, cool and pleasant.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to take a look around the fort, nearby attractions, we suggest you avoid the sunny days. Plan your arrival for the months of October to February.

Accommodation Options

Choose from different choices of stay as per your requirements

Budget: Nirvana Bekal, Bekkal Fort Inn

Mid-Range: The Lalit Resort & Spa.

Luxury: Taj Bekal Resort & Spa.

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Air: Mangalore International Airport, 70 km away; domestic and international flights.

Rail: Kasaragod Railway Station, 12 km away; connections across India.

Road: Well-connected; regular buses and taxis from nearby cities like Mangalore & Kasargod

Place 11: Vagamon

For our next destination, we have another hill station in Kerala – Vagamon. So if hills and valleys are what you wanted to see, you have to travel to this spot in Idukki. It was listed as one of the ‘ most attractive places to visit in India’ by National Geographic Traveller.

Tourist Attractions

Vagamon Meadows: A vast stretch of the green, these valleys can be the perfect makeshift location for picnics and day-time walks.

Pine Forest: Spanning over more than 100 acres, the Pine trees and their thick canopy of leaves attracts visitors from everywhere.

Vagamon Lake: A lake in between the greens reflecting the hues of the sky. You can sit and stare at the water next to the shore or take a boat ride with your groups here.

Thangalpara: A pilgrimage site for Muslims, Thangalpara is a rock formation with spiritual importance. You can also relish in the panoramic views of the neighboring regions.

Vagamon Adventure Park – From ziplining to paragliding and other activities, this adventure has it all to keep you entertained throughout.

Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary – The family-friendly destination ranges almost 400 sq km

Tour Package: Vagamon and Munnar Tour Package

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 20°C to 30°C, pleasant and cool.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): Heavy rainfall; be cautious of slippery paths and leeches.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 10°C to 25°C, cool and misty.

Best Time to Visit

Pack some warm clothes and book your next trip to Vagamon. The best time for a holiday package here is around the months of October to May.

Accommodation Options

Budget: Green Palace Residency, Winter Vale Green Stay

Mid-Range: Vagamon Hill Chimes, Chillax Vagamon Hotel

Luxury: Vagamon Heights, Pine Clough Vagamon

Suggested Reading: Best resorts to stay in Vagamon

Transport and Accessibility

Air: Cochin International Airport, 100 km away; domestic and international flights.

Rail: Kottayam Railway Station, 64 km away; connections to various cities.

Road: Regular buses and taxis from nearby towns from Kottayam and Idukki

Place 12: Thrissur

Thrissur, often referred to as the “Cultural Capital of Kerala,” . The name “Thrissur” is derived from “Thiru-Shiva-Perur,” which means “The City of Lord Shiva.” The Kerala Tourism Awards recognised Thrissur as the Best City for Culture and Heritage in 2020.

Tourist Attractions

Vadakkunnathan Temple – The 2000 year-old Temple is renowned for its classical Kerala architecture. Spread over 9 acres, it features a central shrine surrounded by four gateways (gopurams) facing all four directions. The temple is notable for its annual Thrissur Pooram festival and houses the main deity Lord Shiva.

Guruvayur – Located about 30 km from Thrissur city, the temple town is famous for the Guruvayur temple, which is often referred to as “Bhuloka Vaikunta,” meaning the abode of Vishnu on Earth. The name “Guruvayur” originated from the combination of “Guru” (Brihaspati, the Teacher of Devas) and “Vayu” (the God of Winds), with the Malayalam suffix “ur” meaning city or settlement.

Athirappilly Waterfalls – Dubbed the “Niagara of India,” Athirappilly is the largest waterfall in Kerala. It’s a popular spot for picnics and offers a majestic view of the Chalakudy River flowing down in a cascading manner.

Kerala Kalamandalam – Founded by poet Vallathol Narayana Menon, Kerala Kalamandalam is a major center for learning classical performing arts, including Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Koodiyattam.

Shakthan Thampuran Palace – Also known as Vadakkekara Palace, it’s a historical palace converted to a museum by the state that showcases the cultural and political history of Thrissur. It was the residence of Sakthan Thampuran, the ruler of the erstwhile princely state of Kochi

Our Lady of Dolours Basilica – Commonly known as the Puthanpally, it is the third tallest church in Asia and the largest in India. It is renowned for its neo-Gothic architecture.

Punnathur Kotta – Situated near Guruvayur, this is an elephant sanctuary and also goes by the name Aana Kotta is where elephants offered by devotees to the Guruvayur Temple are housed.

Vazhachal Waterfalls – Located near Athirappilly, Vazhachal is another beautiful waterfall, surrounded by greenery, ideal for having some fun in the water.

Chettuva Backwaters – Coconut grooves, mangrove vegetation, small islands and migratory birds are the sights this backwater presents to every viewer.

Peechi Dam – With an area of 3200 acres, this dam is built over the Manali river. The dam created the Peechi Reservoir, which has a water spread area of approximately 14 square kilometers.

Festivals

Thrissur Pooram – This grand festival, held annually in April or May, is the most famous festival in Thrissur. Over a million people gather here to witness this grand festival. It involves a procession of elephants, Kudamattam, traditional instrumental music, and a great set of fireworks.

Pulikali – A folk art performance, Pulikali (Tiger Dance) is a unique part of Onam celebrations in Thrissur. Performers paint themselves like tigers and dance to the beats of traditional music.

Buon Natale – An annual cultural festival organized since 2013, by the Thrissur Archdiocese and the local community. It features Christmas celebrations, parades, and gatherings with thousands dressed as Santa Claus. The event has set records, including a Guinness World Record for assembling over 18,000 Santas in one place.

Weather

Summer (Mar-May): 25°C to 35°C, warm and humid.

Monsoon (Jun-Sep): 22°C to 30°C, heavy rainfall, lush and green.

Winter (Oct-Feb): 20° to 28°C, cool and comfortable, ideal for sightseeing.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Thrissur is during the winter months, from October to February. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for traveling around the city’s cultural and historical sites. Additionally, visiting during Thrissur Pooram (April-May) offers a one-of-a-kind festive experience.

Accommodation Options

Experience the best of hospitality in Thrissur with these different choices

Budget: Hotel Merlin International, Joys Palace.

Mid-Range: Hotel Luciya Palace, Pooram International.

Luxury: The Garuda Hotel, Lulu International Convention Center & Garden Hotels.

Transport and Accessibility

Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located about 55 km from Thrissur. Regular taxis and buses are available from the airport to the city.

Rail: Thrissur is well-connected by rail with major cities in India. The Thrissur Railway Station is centrally located and easily accessible.

Road: Thrissur has a road network connecting it with nearby cities and towns. Public buses, private cabs, and auto-rickshaws are commonly used for local transportation.

Conclusion

So, there you have it—a detailed list of popular tourist spots, but remember, there’s still so much more to discover! We’ll be covering the rest of the other locations in another blog, so stay tuned.

When you visit this South Indian state, don’t rush through it. Every turn and corner, hills and mountains has its own story and an amazing view waiting for you. If you’re looking for a thorough exploration of the area, connect with Kerala Tour Packages. We will be your go-to travel partner for an unforgettable adventure in Kerala.