The real gem of Southern India is, without a doubt, the luscious and culturally rich Indian state of Kerala. This tropical paradise is widely known for almost everything, notably its scintillating waterfalls, scenic backwaters with rustic houseboats, diverse wildlife, palm-fringed white powder beaches, dramatic kathakali dance, sumptuous South Indian dishes and lush green tea plantations. This blissful sanctuary is equally known for its healing and soothing traditional Ayurvedic spa treatments.
A country with unparalleled beauty, Kerala beckons backpackers and avid travelers to venture off the beaten path and soak in its vibrant traditions through its temple festivals and epic Kalaripayattu martial arts. The state is also home to tropical rainforest, inhabited by some indigenous people, Asiatic elephants, tigers, leopards, and ancient caves. Make Kerala your next travel destination, to taste true South Indian hospitality and culture. Scroll down to find the top beautiful places to visit in Kerala, India.
1. Backwaters of Alleppey
Alleppey is one of the striking tourist attractions of Kerala. Referred as the ‘Venice of the East’, the backwaters of Alleppey have stunned many visitors, due to its scenic views of glistening freshwater lakes, verdant rice paddy fields and tropical palm trees, which altogether give a rejuvenating feeling. The lake’s bountiful ecosystem consists of species like kingfishers, mudskippers, crabs, frogs, cormorants, otters, turtles and terns.
Many villagers use hand-punted canoes as their mode of transport to cross the shady canals. Expect to see houseboats, fishing nets and village daily routine, as you cross the lake.
Backwaters of Alleppey
Address: Punnamada, Kottankulangara, Alappuzha, Kerala 688006, India
2. Meesapulimala-Munnar
In the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, the mighty Meesapulimala is the second highest peak in South India, with a majestic height of 8,724 feet (2,658 meters) above sea level. Meesapulimala literally means ‘face of the tiger’ and it got its name due to its peculiar peak. The astounding mountain peak offers staggering views, especially when the drifting clouds sweep over the high mountain summit. Meesapulimala is tucked between the Anaimalai and Palani Hills, just 20 km (12 miles) away from Munnar. This is a perfect attraction if you’re an adventure seeker. Get up close to the unspoiled surroundings and connect with nature, as you trek along the meandering paths leading to the top.
Feast your eyes on incredible views of thick forest, spellbinding waterfalls, rolling hills and luscious tea plantations. You might also encounter wildlife such as sambar deer, goats, and sloth bears. It will take approximately 7 to 9 hours to complete the whole trek (round trip).
Meesapulimala-Munar
Address: Meesapulimala Kannan Devan Hills, Tamil Nadu 685616
3. Vembanad Lake - Kumarakom
Splendid Vembanad Lake sprawls over an area of 200 km2 (77.2 square miles) in the touristy village of Kumarakom. The spectacular lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala and is separated from the Arabian Sea by a narrow barrier island. Take a wonderful sightseeing cruise to savor the tranquil environment and scenic vista. Visitors can indulge in activities such as fishing, birdwatching or assisting the Snake Boat Races.
Vembanad Lake - Kumarakom
Address: Vembanad Lake, Kerala, India
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Periyar Tiger Trail - Thekkady
Indulge in an eco wildlife safari at Periyar, which encompasses a lake, rolling hills and a jungle teeming with wildlife. Join an eco-friendly trekking program, which usually involves camping to learn about preserving the fragile wildlife. The off-beaten tracks constitute rugged terrain, dense forest and encounters with animals, such as the Nilgiri langur, bison, giant squirrels, elephants and tigers.
Periyar Tiger Trail - Thekkady
Address: Periyar National Park, Kerala, India
5. Vagamon Pine Forest - Vagamon
Immerse yourself in the soothing, verdant and serene Vagamon Pine Forest, perched in the Central Travancore region of Kerala. This secluded and exuberant green hill station invites nature lovers to experience exceptional forest bathing. The luscious pine forest is a wide area, full of acres of lofty pine trees growing on the steep edges of cliffs. The temperature varies between 10° (50°F ) and 23°C (73 °F) during the midday summer.
Vagamon Pine Forest - Vagamon
Address: Pine Valley Road, Vedikuzhi, Kolahalamedu, Kerala 685501, India
6. Varkala Beach - Varkala
There are so many reasons to like the long stretching Varkala Beach. Commonly known as Papansham Beach, it is located 10 km (6.2 miles) away from Varkala, along the Arabian Sea. Papansham literally means ‘wash away sins’ and thus has become quite popular among locals. It is also renowned for its natural spring, which has healing properties.
Additionally, the beach is the only place in southern Kerala where red laterite cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Contemplate a spectacular sunset view while strolling barefoot.
Varkala Beach - Varkala
Address: Varkala Beach Rd, Varkala, Kerala 695141, India
7. Ezhimala Beach - Kannur
Witness the sheer beauty of Ezhimala Beach, together with the spectacular sunrise or sunset. Known as the oldest beach in Kerala, this little piece of heaven is dotted with a myriad of staggering palm and coconut trees. The beach is located some 55 km (34 miles) from Kannur. It holds a significant place among locals, as it is believed that Buddha stopped at this very place while he was crossing the country.
It is equally believed that the hillock was dropped here by Hanuman, a mythical character from the Ramayana. This somehow ‘explains’ the presence of medicinal plants and herbs in the area. There are scattered stone pillars all over the beach, which also adds to its beauty.
Ezhimala Beach - Kannur
Address: Ezhimala Viewpoint, Kerala
8. Madhur Temple - Kasargod
The gorgeous and pious Madhur Temple serves as a significant place to locals as it is dedicated to the divinity Ganesha. The temple is nestled 7 km (4.3 miles) from Kasaragod town. It has a majestic three-tiered dome with a copperplated roof and a cloistered court, which contrasts with the sublime landscape of the Madhuvahini River. Visitors can find exquisite wooden carvings here, depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
Madhur Temple - Kasargod
Address: Madhur Shree Madhanantheshwara SiddhiVinayaka Temple, Madhur, Kasargod, Kerala, India
Website: Madhur Temple - Kasargod
9. Vazhachal Waterfalls - Thrissur
One of the must-visit places in Kerala is the spellbinding Vazhachal Falls, spurting over the huge basalt rocks and with a captivating lush green landscape in the background. This natural attraction is a blissful sanctuary where you can feel rejuvenated. It is located in Athirappilly Panchayath in the Thrissur district of Kerala, near the Vazhachal Forest Division.
Nature adventurers can trek from the top to the base of the waterfalls through the mountain slopes. This is the best way to explore the surroundings, as the place is home to wild bird species.
Vazhachal Waterfalls - Thrissur
Address: Athirapilly road, Pariyaram, Kerala 680724, India
10. Bekal Fort - Bekal
The impressive 17th-century Bekal Fort is the largest fort in Kerala and has been featured in Bollywood movies, due to its breathtaking location and stunning laterite-brick, which contrasts perfectly with the white waves of the Arabian Sea. The historical structure was built between 1645 and 1660, by Shivappa Nayaka of Keladi. The fort majestically sprawls across 40-acres (16 hectares) of land.
It overlooks an awe-inspiring view of the coastline and the nearby towns. There is a water tank, a magazine, and an observation tower. You can experience a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere once you are here.
Bekal Fort - Bekal
Address: Kasaragod Road, PO Bekal Fort, Beside Bekal Fort Railway Station, Dist. Kasaragod, Bekal, Kerala 671316, India
Kerala - God’s own country
From the backwaters of Alleppey to the lush green tea plantations, Kerala is a must-visit destination in India. It is mostly visited by backpackers because of its natural attractions and affordable accommodation.
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to bookmark our articles, like local expert tips, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Facebook Log in with Twitter Log in with Google ×