30 Best Places To Visit In Kerala, India - Updated 2024

best places to visit in kerala
Sharon A.
Sharon A.  
Updated
| 14 min read

Fondly known as “God’s Own Country”, the state of Kerala in southern India is an extremely beautiful destination. Its unspoiled tropical beauty has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for mountains, beautiful beaches, rich culture, heritage, or perhaps you are interested in wildlife and adventure, this “Spice Garden” of India will treat you to a vacation to remember. But since there are so many places to check out, most tourists are usually at a crossroads in choosing the best destinations. Whichever direction you choose, however, Kerala will never disappoint. Read below for a brief description of some of the best places to visit in Kerala, India.

1. Kochi (from USD 175.0)

Kochi was once a vital trade center whose charms from different cultures and influences remain to this date. It is home to Fort Kochi, which is the first European township in India, and the amazing coast of Cherai Beach. The city is also believed to be the final resting place of Vasco Da Gama – the great explorer. It is a paradise for travelers interested in beaches, history, and authentic Southern Indian cuisines. With Kochi Airport on its grounds, it is a strong industrial and commercial capital of Kerala that promises an all-around range of experiences to all types of travelers.

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Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Houseboat Day Cruise in Aleppey

Duration: 6 hours

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2. Thiruvananthapuram/Trivandrum (from USD 81.0)

Thiruvananthapuram is the administrative capital of Kerala – a historic town whose existence traces back to 1000 BC. With its location on the lofty peaks of seven hills, this city offers a quaint urban charm with a myriad of breathtaking must-visit places, as well as a whole horde of adventurous experiences. The district’s largest freshwater lake, Vellayani Lake, takes any tourist to a tranquil setting. It is also not short of old, beautifully designed palaces, mesmerizing beaches, museums, and sacred temples that will leave no breather in your itinerary.

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Private Custom Tour: Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) Sightseeing with guide

Duration: 7 hours

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3. Munnar (from USD 110.0)

Munnar sits majestically on the banks of three rivers – Periavaru, Nallathanni, and Madupetti. It is an idyllic hill station best known for sprawling landscapes characterized by lush greenery and a plethora of tea estates. Other than being one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala, Munnar is also the commercial center of the world’s largest tea estates. Some of the notable points of interest for tourists include Kundala Lake, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Blossom Park, Eravikulam National Park, and of course, the beautiful, sprawling tea plantations.

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Private Day Trip to Munnar from Kochi (Cochin)

Duration: 13 hours

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4. Alappuzha

Alappuzha
Source: Pixabay

If you want to experience the heart of Kerala’s backwaters, then you have every reason to include Alappuzha in your Kerala itinerary. The serene beauty accentuated by the houseboat stays and the backwater trips makes it an endearing destination for anyone interested in experiencing the Venice of the East – as it is sometimes known. Alappuzha is also fondly dubbed “The Backwater Capital of Kerala”. Some of the highlights of your trip here will include visits to the expansive paddy fields, museums such as Krishnapuram Palace, beaches, old fishing villages, quaint chapels, and an exciting culinary experience featuring the best coconut and banana recipes in India.

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5. Kannur

Kannur kotta, Arabian sea
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ks.mini used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Also known as Cannanore, Kannur is a charming city surrounded by lots of sightseeing opportunities, including beaches, picnic spots, and a plethora of ancient temples. The city still has a strong aura of the bygone colonial era, with distinct links to several colonial masters such as the Portuguese, the British, the Dutch, and the Mysore Sultanate. Other than the rich history and culture, don’t miss to experience the enchanting evening strolls near the lighthouse beach as you dig deep into the Portuguese history at the St. Angelo’s Fort located in proximity to the beach.

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6. Kollam

Kollam
Source: Pixabay

Kollam is a quaint port city with a very distinctive charm and appeal. What you find here is a blend of a rich past, intertwined with a unique culture and a myriad of hidden treasure troves that beg to be explored. Thevally Palace, located along the banks of Ashtamudi Lake, is the perfect example to showcase Kollam’s heritage. The rustic traditional villages, beautiful Kollam beach with chattering waves, ancient mosques and temples as well as delicious Indian food of Kollam will ensure you have more than enough to see and do during your trip.

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7. Thrissur

Thrissur city in business
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user w:en:Jpullokaran used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

If you are a cultural enthusiast or a history buff, then you must have Thrissur on top of your list during your Kerala visit. With several religious spots and sacred temples, Thrissur is not only the Cultural Capital of Kerala but also a vital pilgrimage for Hindu devotees. It is the venue for the famous Temple Festival – an annual festival attended by Hindu devotees from all over the world. The best time to visit Thrissur should be during the festivals since this will give you a good chance to soak in the culture, join in the celebration, and appreciate the diversity that exists between different religious inclinations. This city in India is also famous for having the largest waterfall in Kerala—Athirapally Falls.

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8. Palakkad

Paddy fields near Palakkad, Kerala, India
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Nikhilb239 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Also known as the Gateway to Kerala, Palakkad is a real gem for nature lovers. It sits prettily on the foothills of the Western Ghats, with breathtaking sceneries characterized by lush green vegetation all around. Also, its breathtaking landscapes and calming sceneries are hard to miss. With a resplendent past full of a diverse range of cultures, traditions, music, and the traditional Malabar way of life, Palakkad is a real natural treasure that should never be overlooked during a trip to Kerala. Some of the notable top attractions include the ruins of Tipu Sulthan’s Fort, Jain Temple, Walayar Dam, and Silent Valley National Park.

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9. Kozhikode

Kozhikode railway station
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mohamed images used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Kozhikode was once the capital city of Malabar when it was under the reign of the Zamorin for nearly 500 years. It was a popular trading center where the Jews, Arabs, Chinese, and the Phoenicians met to trade spices and cotton. Currently, it remains a vital marketing center for products such as rubber, coffee, lemongrass, and pepper coconut which are grown in plenty in the neighboring Wayanad district. The large Kozhikode Railway Station is an essential tool in keeping its various industries thriving. As far as tourism goes, Kozhikode Beach and Kappad Beach are some of the places that locals and tourists would love to visit more than once.

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10. Vagamon

Vagamon Kurisumala - വാഗമൺ കുരിശുമല 02
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Shijan Kaakkara used under CC BY-SA 4.0

If you are looking for an offbeat destination away from the crowds, then Vagamon is one of the best you will find in Kerala. At an altitude of 1,100 meters (3,608 feet) above sea level, the region boasts beautiful forests and lush greenery that has the serenity desired by most nature lovers. Some of the popular outdoor attractions that await you in Vagamon include the Marmala Waterfall, the historic pilgrimage site of Thangalpara, the picturesque Barren Hills, and Vagamon Lake known to have the best sunrise and sunset scenes in Kerala.

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11. Kottayam

Aerial view of kottayam town kerala
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user joseph used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Kottayam is a culturally rich destination with nearly everything you will ever need for an indelible vacation in Kerala. It is an old town perched on top of a hill, bordering the famous Vembanad Lake and the beautiful Western Ghats to the East and West respectively. Apart from the mesmerizing natural sceneries, Kottayam also has several ancient and beguiling shrines, each with a unique story to tell. Also worth noting is that the city is home to several spice plantations that alludes to the incredible culinary diversity hidden in its blend of cuisines.

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12. Varkala

Varkala beach
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Kotoviski used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Varkala has a gracious beauty with the power to take your breath away. It is the only town in God’s Own Country where you will find long winding stretches of cliffs and views alongside the Arabian sea line. In addition to being a top destination for its Varkala Beach, which is also known as Papanasam Beach, this town is blessed with a rich culture and history that dates back to over 2,000 years ago. You will enjoy exploring the ancient Swami Temple and strolling around the quaint town. It will mesmerize you with its impeccable beauty and devout ambiance which has remained intact through the years.

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13. Kumarakom

Kumarakom, Kerala, India - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Raman Patel used under CC BY 3.0

Embellished with the beautiful charm of Vembanad Lake, Kumarkom is another fascinating backwater destination in the state of Kerala. It is a region littered with paddy fields, a network of backwaters, traditional houseboats, budget resorts, and delicious local cuisines. It is also the home to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – a paradise for bird lovers keen on spotting all kinds of migratory birds in East Asia. While at this place, don’t miss the two-hour canoeing trips during sunsets or sunrises to fully appreciate the beauty of the region.

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14. Kasaragod

Bekal fort kasaragod 21
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Vijayanrajapuram used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Located in the northern part of Kerala, Kasaragod is an amazing year-round destination with an envious fusion of culture, religion, and nature. With lofty green hills, majestic forts, pristine beaches, ancient temples, and charming backwaters, Kasaragod exudates charm and tranquility with every turn you take. It not only boasts of a rich and glorious past, but it is also where you will find some of the most well-preserved forts in India. Additionally, with more than seven languages spoken across the town, the art and culture scene in Kasaragod is nothing but incredible, and it is something that will be appreciated by all kinds of travelers.

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15. Malappuram

Laterite quarry, Malappuram, Kerala, India
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Praveenp used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Having been a one-time command base of British troops, Malappuram is filled with colonial history. It is a hill-town best known for temples, as well as being the home to one of the oldest temples in India – Malappuram Juma Masjid. The other notable tourist attractions in the town include themed water parks, open-air theatre, and the riverside park.

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16. Thalassery

Thalassery Light House, Kannur
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Vipin Wilfred used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Thalassery is a coastal town in Kerala tucked along the shores of the Arabian Sea. It is a town rich in history, culture, and heritage that points back to the earliest British settlers in the region. Other than the rich history and culture, the town has a lot more to offer tourists. It is the hometown of many popular artists and circus owners, including Bharath. The town is also popular for its bakeries. Walking down the streets, you will not fail to notice several bakeries displaying the sweet goods made by the locals. If you love history and nature, then Thalassery has a lot of experiences waiting for you.

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17. Guruvayur

Statue of Garuda at Manjulal, Guruvayur, Kerala - 20110410
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user RanjithSiji used under CC BY 3.0

It is a small town, but with a lot of religious importance for Hindu devotees. Guruvayur is the home to the Guruvayur Temple which happens to be the fourth largest temple in India hosting Lord Krishna. But the town is not just a destination for Hindu devotees. It has other list of attractions and experiences that will be enjoyed by both devotees and non-devotees of the Hindu religion. For instance, Chavakkad Beach is in proximity to the town, and it is a nice place to watch the sunsets and the fishermen while they bring back the day’s catch. Then there is the Guruvayur Devaswom elephant sanctuary which you can visit for an exciting encounter and learning experience about land’s biggest mammals. Finally, if you can visit between February and March, you will be in time to catch the annual Guruvayur Festival – a chance to dig deep into the Hindu culture, including incredible displays of elephant races.

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18. Kannur

Kannur-Fort-and-Arabian-Sea
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Rajesh Kakkanatt used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Kannur is fondly known as “The Crown of Kerala” and it is an enchanting destination if you love sprawling landscapes of endless greenery and breathtaking views. It is bordered by the Western Ghats on one side, and the Arabian Sea on the other side–thus providing great fun opportunities for beachgoers and nature lovers. History buffs and culture enthusiasts are also not left behind, given that the town has a decent number of historical attractions and cultural interests worth exploring.

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19. Kappad

Kappad beach kerala
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dijaraj Nair used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Kappad is a historic beach, and one of the top tourist attractions in Kozhikode, Kerala. It was at this beach that Vasco da Gama landed during his initial exploration of the region, and where he “discovered” India. He later established a spice route along the beach, giving it the prominence and relevance it enjoys to this date. Other than the history, a visit to the beach will give you a chance to tour the rocks and small hills that are also the home to an 800-year-old temple. Additionally, you are free to go for a boat ride on the nearby Kallai River or Canoli Canal for some more exploration of the region.

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20. Tirur

Tirur
Source: Pexels

Tirur is a melting pot for both history and culture. It is the birthplace of Ramanujan Thunjath – a widely famous father of Malayalam literature who lived way back in the 16th century. Millions of Indians travel to this town every year with their children to initiate them into the world of letters. Still, in literature, Tirur is also the birthplace of Sanskrit – a great poet and grammarian who lived in the 16th century. Other than its prowess in literature, Tirur is also a nature lover’s paradise. It is where Tirur River and Bharathapuzha converge before draining into the Arabian Sea – a confluence known for beautiful natural sceneries and also a birdwatcher’s paradise.

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21. Taliparamba

Rajarajeshwara Temple - Taliparamba 2018 (11)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Vinayaraj used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Taliparamba is a small city, but it is full of interesting charms. Both the Kuppam River and the Valapattanam River flow through it, leaving a trail of natural beauty and unexplainable peace and serenity. Lush green fields and quaint tile-roofed houses surround the city, hiding the plethora of ancient mosques, temples, and churches nestled in the town. If you are into religion, and you don’t like the fast pace of city life, then this would make a great getaway for you in Kerala.

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22. Bekal

Bekal
Source: Pixabay

Bekal is another small town in Kasaragod district and it is famous for its beaches, forts, and backwaters. It is the home to the largest fort in Kerala, which also makes it one of the most important landmarks in the district. The fort, Bekal Fort, looks like a keyhole, and three of its sides border the Arabian Sea. In addition to the fort, the other major attractions here include Kappil and Bekal Beach, Chandragiri Fort, and the 45 Caves that are commonly known as Nityanandashram Caves.

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23. Vayala

Olea dioica Roxb. (3206513747)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dinesh Valke used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Vayala is another small town, but a leading tourist destination in Kerala, especially for those who are interested in religion. One of the top attractions here is Kothukkal Cave Temple. The temple is a rock-cut structure believed to have been in existence since the 8th century BC. It is carved from a gigantic rock in the middle of a paddy field. Other than the temple, Vayala is also home to historical churches, shrines, and chapels that tourists from other faiths will enjoy for a day trip

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24. Punalur

Punalur suspension bridge 1877
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sandeepkrishnantm used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Punalur is a scenic town and the largest Hill City in Kerala. It sits on the banks of Kallada River, making it a picturesque town with awe-inspiring landscapes of the famous Western Ghats. As far as history goes, Punalur is home to a one-of-a-kind bridge in India – the Hanging Bridge of Punalur. The bridge was constructed in the 19th century and it is the only suspension bridge in Southern India. Apart from the Bridge, Punalur is a top destination for tourists looking for hiking, trekking, and other adventure opportunities.

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25. Kayamkulam

Krishnapuram Palace Kayamkulam
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Akhilan used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Kayamkulam may be a small village in Kerala but it was once an ancient maritime trading center with lots of history to tell the current generations. Presently, the village has a plethora of old cashew factories that best tell the story of the nature and depth of the trade witnessed by the village in its heydays. Also, if you are into myths, and you are interested in finding out more about the myth of the Kayamkulam Kochunni, then this is a must-visit village. Legend has it that Kayamkulam Kochunni was a highwayman who would rob the rich and give the loot to poor people, just like Robin Hood.

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26. Thiruvalla

St Johns Cathedral Thiruvalla 2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Challiyan used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The small, quaint, and quiet town of Thiruvalla lies on the banks of River Manimala and it is famously known as the “Temple Town” owing to the incredible number of temples it has. It is a town rich in history and culture. Thiruvalla is a major attraction for tourists and worshippers who come to explore and appreciate its religious and cultural heritage. It is the home to the famous Sri Vallabh Temple as well as the Paliakkara Church – the very first church where Christianity was introduced in Kerala in 52 AD. If you are interested in learning about the many stories and legends about religion in India, then this would be a good place to start.

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27. Chalakudy

Holy Land in Chalakudy Church - ഹോളി ലാൻഡ് ചാലക്കുടി പള്ളിയിൽ
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user കാക്കര used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Chalakudy is located on the banks of Chalakudy River. It is a beautiful town with heart-stopping sceneries that boast a lush environment and tranquil atmosphere. With the presence of the river and the forests, Chalakuddy is an ideal destination for every outdoor lover in need of a peaceful and serene setting. The river boasts an incredible marine diversity with over 98 species of freshwater fish. If you don’t want to explore the jungles or enjoy a boat ride along the river, then simply sit on the banks, or stroll along the boulevards while you soak in and enjoy the serenity of the place.

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28. Mattancherry

Kerala jain temple
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Thorsten Vieth used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Mattancherry is another historic town in Kerala, dating back to the 16th century. It is one of the most cherished tea and spice trading centers in the country, though it is also blessed with a myriad of natural, historical, and cultural attractions that will appeal to most tourists. Some of the popular tourist attractions include the Mattancherry Palace - believed to have been constructed in 1500 AD - as well as Jew Street, Dharmanath Jain Temple, JeevaMatha Church, Coonan Cross Shrine, and the International Police Tourism Station and Museum.

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29. Beypore

Beypore3
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ziegler175 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Beypore is a beach town and one of the oldest ports of Kerala. It was once a vital link for the maritime silk route and was also very famous for dhow building. Currently, the town has relics of its former glory which make for major attractions for tourists. These include shipbuilding yards, old harbors, and lighthouses. Beypore is also reputed to have some of the most relaxed, beautiful, and pleasant beach destinations in Kerala, including, of course, Beypore Beach. It is a sandy retreat where you will come in contact with Mother Nature’s untouched, virgin beauty.

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30. Wayanad (from USD 160.0)

Wayanad is nestled in the lap of the Western Ghats and it is one of the best hill stations you must visit when in Kerala. At an altitude of up to 2,100 meters (6,889 feet), Wayanad’s Chembra Peak not only boasts stunning views of the neighboring regions but also showcases nature that is still untouched, hence, promising unforgettable moments for all nature lovers. Pookode Lake, Vythiri Resort, and Meenmutty Falls are ideal destinations if you are looking for the best places to soak in the beauty of nature. You can also add Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to enjoy plenty of opportunities for viewing large varieties of wild fauna such as gaur, deer, Asian elephant, and tiger.

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3-Day Wayanad Tour from Bangalore

Duration: 3 days

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Create beautiful vacation memories in Kerala

From the listings above, you can tell that Kerala is a perfect getaway destination that is worthy of a spot on your bucket list. Whether it is religion, history, culture, authentic food, beaches, or nature that you are interested in, Kerala has just the right destination to gift you with your most desired experience. Read through the above list of the best places to visit in Kerala, India to help you plan your itinerary for a memorable vacation in India, especially during the summer season.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Sharon, also known as Shaz, resides in the vibrant City in the Sun. Her passion is to travel, immerse herself in diverse cultures, savor their cuisines, dance with the locals, and share her...Read more

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