Travel Destinations in Kerala

Best Places To Visit in Kerala India.

Kerala is one of India’s most diverse travel destinations, offering a combination of mist-covered hills, peaceful backwaters, tropical beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, historic towns and rich cultural experiences. Whether you are planning a family holiday, honeymoon, weekend getaway or nature-focused trip, there are plenty of travel destinations in Kerala to suit different types of travellers.

From the tea plantations of Munnar and the backwaters of Alappuzha to the beaches of Varkala and the forests of Wayanad, Kerala offers remarkably varied experiences within a relatively compact state. Kerala Tourism notes that many of the state’s major destinations can be reached within a few hours of one another, making it possible to combine multiple experiences in a single trip. Kerala’s Lullu Mall is counted as the largest malls in the world.

In this guide, we explore the best travel destinations in Kerala for 2026, what makes each place special, things to do, malls in kerala who should visit and how to plan your trip.

Quick Answer: Travel Destinations in Kerala

Some of the best places to visit in Kerala include:

1. Munnar – Tea plantations and hill landscapes
2. Alappuzha (Alleppey) – Backwaters and houseboats
3. Wayanad – Wildlife, forests and adventure
4. Kochi – Heritage, culture and food
5. Thekkady – Wildlife and spice plantations
6. Varkala – Clifftop beaches and sunsets
7. Kovalam – Beaches and relaxation
8. Kumarakom – Backwaters and birdwatching
9. Vagamon – Peaceful hills and adventure
10. Bekal – Forts and northern Kerala’s coastline

Kerala Tourism’s official destination directory includes destinations across categories such as hills, beaches, backwaters is considered under top 10 Best Places to Visit in India, wildlife, waterfalls, islands and cultural attractions.

Top 10 Travel Destinations in Kerala 2026

1 Munnar

munnar visiting places

Munnar is one of the most scenic travel destinations in Kerala, known for its vast tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, waterfalls and peaceful valleys. Located in the Western Ghats, this popular hill station offers a refreshing escape from the heat and busy city life. Visitors can explore Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Top Station, Kundala Lake, Tata Tea Museum and Pothamedu View Point. Munnar is especially popular for trekking, nature walks, scenic drives, photography and exploring tea estates, making it an excellent choice for couples, families and nature

What to See in Munnar

Top places to visit in Munnar include Eravikulam National Park, Munnar Tea Gardens, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Top Station, Kundala Lake, Tata Tea Museum, Attukad Waterfalls and Pothamedu View Point. These attractions offer a mix of tea plantations, scenic hills, waterfalls, wildlife and panoramic viewpoints.

Best Time to Visit Munnar

The best time to visit Munnar is from October to March, when cool and pleasant weather makes sightseeing, trekking and exploring tea plantations comfortable. The monsoon season from June to September is ideal for lush greenery, misty landscapes and waterfalls.

2 Alappuzha Kerala

alappuzha krishna temple

Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is one of the most famous travel destinations in Kerala, renowned for its tranquil backwaters, traditional houseboats, lush paddy fields and scenic waterways. It is an ideal destination for couples, families and travellers seeking a peaceful Kerala experience. Visitors can enjoy houseboat cruises, backwater tours and village experiences, while attractions such as Alappuzha Beach, Vembanad Lake, Marari Beach, Kuttanad and Pathiramanal Island add to the destination’s charm. Alappuzha is especially popular for experiencing Kerala’s unique backwater culture, local cuisine and natural beauty.

Places to Visit in Alappuzha, Kerala

Top places to visit in Alappuzha, Kerala include Alappuzha Backwaters, Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, Kuttanad, Pathiramanal Island, Alappuzha Lighthouse and Krishnapuram Palace. A houseboat cruise is a must-do experience to explore Kerala’s scenic backwaters and village life.

Best Time to Visit Alappuzha

The best time to visit Alappuzha is from October to March, when pleasant weather is ideal for backwater cruises and sightseeing. The monsoon season from June to September offers lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere, while April and May are warmer.

3 Wayanad

wayanad places to visit

Wayanad is one of the most scenic travel destinations in Kerala, known for its lush forests, misty hills, waterfalls, caves and rich wildlife. Located in the Western Ghats, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, families and travellers looking for a peaceful getaway. Visitors can explore Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak, Soochipara Waterfalls, Pookode Lake, Banasura Sagar Dam and Kuruva Island. From trekking and wildlife experiences to scenic drives and waterfalls, Wayanad offers a diverse mix of nature, adventure and local culture.

Places to Visit in Wayanad, Kerala

Top places to visit in Wayanad, Kerala include Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls, Pookode Lake, Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak and Kuruva Island. These attractions offer a mix of wildlife, waterfalls, trekking, caves, lakes and scenic Western Ghats landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Wayanad

The best time to visit Wayanad is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, trekking and exploring waterfalls. The monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery and misty landscapes but may bring heavy rainfall.

4 Kochi

kochi beach

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Kerala, famous for its colonial heritage, historic streets, vibrant culture and scenic waterfront. It is an ideal destination for history lovers, food enthusiasts, cafes in kochi, families and first-time visitors to Kerala. Visitors can explore Places in Kochi like Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town, St. Francis Church, Marine Drive and Cherai Beach. With its blend of history, culture, art, local cuisine and coastal experiences, Kochi offers a unique introduction to Kerala’s heritage and modern lifestyle.

Places to Visit in Kochi

Top places to visit in Kochi include Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town, St. Francis Church, Marine Drive, Kerala Folklore Museum and Cherai Beach. These attractions showcase Kochi’s rich history, colonial heritage, culture, waterfront views and coastal charm. There are various fun things to do in Kochi a visitor must explore.

Best Time to Visit Kochi

The best time to visit Kochi is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, exploring Fort Kochi and enjoying the city’s coastal attractions. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, while April and May are generally hotter and more humid.

5 Thekkady

Thekkady

Thekkady is one of the best travel destinations in Kerala for wildlife, nature and adventure, surrounded by dense forests, spice plantations and scenic landscapes. Located near the Periyar Tiger Reserve, it is an ideal getaway for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, couples and families. Visitors can enjoy wildlife spotting, boating on Periyar Lake, nature walks and spice plantation tours, while attractions such as Periyar Tiger Reserve, Gavi, Kumily and Mangala Devi Temple add to the experience. Thekkady offers a memorable combination of wildlife, forests, adventure and Kerala’s rich natural beauty.

Places to Visit in Thekkady

Tourist places to visit in Thekkady include Periyar Tiger Reserve, Periyar Lake, Mangala Devi Temple, Gavi, Abraham’s Spice Garden, and Kumily. These attractions offer a mix of wildlife, boating, spice plantations, forests and scenic landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

Best time to visit Thekkady kerala is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant for wildlife safaris, boating and exploring spice plantations. The monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery and refreshing landscapes but can have heavy rainfall.

6 Varkala

varkala tourist places

Varkala is one of the most popular coastal travel destinations in Kerala, known for its dramatic red cliffs, golden beaches, Arabian Sea views and relaxed atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for couples, solo travellers, beach lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway. Visitors can explore Varkala Beach, Varkala Cliff, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Kappil Beach and Anjengo Fort. From sunset views and beach walks to local cafés and spiritual experiences, Varkala offers a refreshing mix of nature, culture, wellness and coastal charm.

Places to Visit in Varkala

Top places to visit in Varkala include Varkala Beach, Varkala Cliff, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Kappil Beach, Kappil Lake and Anjengo Fort. These attractions offer a mix of beaches, coastal views, spirituality, history and scenic landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Varkala

The best time to visit Varkala is from October to March, when pleasant weather is ideal for beaches, sightseeing and enjoying coastal views. The monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery and heavy rainfall, while April and May are hotter.

7 Kovalam

kovalam uday samudra

Kovalam is one of the most popular travel destinations in Kerala, famous for its golden beaches, coconut palms, clear coastal views and relaxing atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for couples, families and travellers looking for a peaceful beach getaway. Visitors can explore Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, Samudra Beach and Vizhinjam, while enjoying beach walks, water activities, Ayurvedic wellness and stunning sunsets. Its beautiful coastline and relaxed resort experience make Kovalam a must-visit destination in Kerala.

Places to Visit in Kollam

The best places to visit in Kollam include Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Beach, Thangassery Lighthouse, Munroe Island, Thenmala, Palaruvi Waterfalls and Thirumullavaram Beach. These attractions offer a mix of backwaters, beaches, waterfalls, islands, scenic landscapes and cultural experiences.

Best Time to Visit Kollam

The best time to visit Kollam is from October to March, when pleasant weather is ideal for exploring backwaters, beaches and nearby attractions. The monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery and heavy rainfall, while April and May are warmer.

8 Kumarakom

kumarakom bird sanctuary

Kumarakom is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in Kerala, known for its peaceful backwaters, Vembanad Lake, lush greenery and traditional houseboat experiences. It is ideal for couples, families and travellers seeking a relaxing escape surrounded by nature. Visitors can explore Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal Island and Kumarakom Backwaters, while enjoying houseboat cruises, birdwatching and village experiences. The destination offers a perfect blend of backwaters, wildlife, nature and authentic Kerala culture.

Places to Visit in Kumarakom Kerala

Top places to visit in Kumarakom, Kerala include Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Backwaters, Pathiramanal Island, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls and Vaikom Mahadeva Temple. These attractions offer a mix of backwaters, birdwatching, islands, waterfalls and scenic landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Kumarakom

The best time to visit Kumarakom, Kerala is from October to March, when pleasant weather is ideal for backwater cruises, birdwatching and sightseeing. The monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery and refreshing backwaters but may have heavy rainfall.

9 Vagamon

vagamon kerala

Vagamon is a beautiful hill station in Kerala known for its lush green meadows, pine forests, mist-covered hills and pleasant climate. Located in the Western Ghats, it offers a peaceful escape from busy city life and is popular among nature lovers, couples and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy trekking, paragliding, scenic drives and nature walks, while attractions such as Vagamon Meadows, Pine Forest, Vagamon Lake and Thangalpara add to its charm. With its serene landscapes and cooler weather, Vagamon is one of the best offbeat travel destinations in Kerala for a relaxing getaway.

Places to Visit in Vagamon, Kerala

Best places to visit in Vagamon, Kerala include Vagamon Meadows, Vagamon Pine Forest, Vagamon Lake, Thangalpara, Vagamon Kurisumala, Murugan Mala and Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary. These attractions offer a mix of green meadows, pine forests, hills, viewpoints, spirituality and adventure activities.

Best Time to Visit Vagamon

The best time to visit vagamon kerala is from October to March, when the cool and pleasant weather is ideal for sightseeing, trekking and exploring the scenic hills. The monsoon season from June to September offers lush greenery and misty landscapes but may bring heavy rainfall.

10 Bekal

Bekal fort

Bekal is a scenic coastal destination in Kerala known for its historic Bekal Fort, golden beaches and panoramic Arabian Sea views. It is an ideal destination for history lovers, couples and travellers looking for a peaceful coastal getaway. Visitors can explore Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, Kappil Beach, Chandragiri Fort and the surrounding backwater landscapes. The combination of heritage, beaches and natural beauty makes Bekal one of the best travel destinations in Kerala.

Places to Visit in Bekal

Top places to visit in Bekal, Kerala, include Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, Kappil Beach, Chandragiri Fort, Nileshwaram, and Valiyaparamba Backwaters. These attractions offer a mix of historic forts, beaches, backwaters, scenic views and cultural experiences.

Best Time to Visit Bekal, Kerala

The best time to visit Bekal is from October to March, when pleasant weather is ideal for exploring Bekal Fort, beaches and coastal attractions. The monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery but can have heavy rainfall.

Which is the Best Time to Visit Kerala with Family?

For a family trip, the best time to visit Kerala with family is from October to March, when the weather is generally pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing, beaches, hill stations and backwater experiences. December to February is especially popular for families, while the monsoon months offer lush scenery but more rain.

Best Things to Do in Kerala

Kerala offers something for every kind of traveller. From peaceful backwaters and scenic hill stations to beaches, wildlife and local culture. Some of the best things to do in Kerala include:

• ? Enjoy a houseboat cruise in Alleppey
• ? Explore the tea plantations of Munnar
• ? Experience wildlife at Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady
• ?️ Relax at Varkala or Kovalam Beach
• ? Enjoy scenic views and trekking in Wayanad
• ?️ Explore the historic streets of Fort Kochi
• ? Discover the peaceful backwaters of Kumarakom
• ? Visit Athirappilly Waterfalls
• ? Explore Kerala’s traditional villages and local markets
• ? Taste authentic Kerala cuisine
• ? Experience Ayurveda and wellness treatments
• ? Experience traditional art forms such as Kathakali and Theyyam
• ?️ Enjoy Kerala’s lush landscapes during the monsoon season

Important Temples in Kerala

temples in kerala

Kerala is home to many historic temples known for their spiritual significance, traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Some important temples in kerala you must visit. Here’s a list of temples in kerala:

1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple – Thiruvananthapuram
2. Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple – Guruvayur
3. Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple – Pathanamthitta
4. Vadakkunnathan Temple – Thrissur
5. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple – Kochi
6. Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple – Alappuzha
7. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple – Kottayam
8. Thirunelli Temple – Wayanad
9. Lokanarkavu Temple – Kozhikode
10. Rajarajeshwara Temple – Kannur
11. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple – Kottayam
12. Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple – Malappuram

Best Places to Stay in Kerala

The best places to stay in Kerala depend on your travel needs and itinerary. Munnar is ideal for families and nature lovers, while Alappuzha and Kumarakom are perfect for backwater experiences. Kochi is a convenient choice for business and leisure travellers, with service apartments in Kochi offering spacious, comfortable stays. Wayanad and Thekkady are great for nature and wildlife, while Varkala and Kovalam are ideal for beach holidays. For longer stays, family trips and corporate travel, PAJASA serviced apartments in Kerala can be a practical alternative to traditional hotels.

FAQ:

Conclusion

Kerala offers a diverse mix of hill stations, beaches, backwaters, wildlife, temples and cultural experiences. This makes it one of the best travel destinations in India. From the tea plantations of Munnar and backwaters of Alappuzha to the beaches of Varkala, wildlife of Thekkady and heritage of Kochi. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, honeymoon, business trip or longer stay, exploring the best travel destinations in Kerala. Stays can be made more comfortable with the right accommodation, including serviced apartments in Kerala for spacious, convenient stays.