20 Best Tourist Places in Kerala for an Unforgettable Holiday

Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” is one of India’s most beautiful and diverse holiday destinations. From mist-covered hills and lush tea plantations to peaceful backwaters, golden beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, historic cities, and vibrant cultural traditions, Kerala offers something for every kind of traveler. If you are searching for the Best Tourist Places in Kerala, this beautiful state has plenty of destinations to explore. Fly Desert Travel Services can help travelers plan a comfortable Kerala holiday with flight bookings, holiday packages, hotel arrangements, and travel assistance.

Kerala is a wonderful destination for families, honeymoon couples, solo travelers, adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and international tourists. You can enjoy a relaxing houseboat cruise in Alappuzha, explore the hills of Munnar, discover wildlife in Thekkady, relax on the beaches of Varkala, or experience Kerala’s rich history and culture in Kochi.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Kerala is a year-round destination, but the experience changes with each season. October to February is considered one of the best periods for a Kerala holiday, with pleasant weather that is ideal for sightseeing, beach trips, honeymoon holidays, and family vacations.

From March to May, temperatures are higher in many parts of Kerala, but the hill stations such as Munnar, Wayanad, and Vagamon remain attractive escapes. This season is suitable for travelers who want to explore Kerala’s scenic mountains and enjoy a quieter holiday.

The monsoon season from June to September transforms Kerala into a lush green paradise. The waterfalls become more spectacular, the countryside looks fresh, and the season is also popular for Ayurveda and wellness experiences.

Planning a trip from the UAE? Choosing the right season can help you enjoy Kerala comfortably while making the most of your holiday itinerary. Fly Desert Travel Services can assist with planning flights, accommodation, holiday packages, and travel arrangements based on your preferred travel dates.

20 Best Tourist Places in Kerala

Here are some of the best places to visit in Kerala, covering hills, beaches, backwaters, wildlife, heritage, and rural landscapes.

1. Munnar – The Land of Tea Plantations

Location: Idukki district

Munnar is one of the most popular Kerala tourist places and a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Located in the Western Ghats, Munnar is famous for its rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, waterfalls, forests, and spectacular viewpoints. The region lies at an elevation of around 1,500–2,500 metres, while Anamudi, South India’s highest peak, is located nearby.

Main Attractions

• • Tea plantations

• • Mattupetty Dam

• • Eravikulam National Park

• • Top Station

• • Echo Point

• • Kundala Lake

• • Waterfalls and mountain viewpoints

Things to Do

• • Visit tea estates

• • Enjoy scenic drives

• • Go trekking

• • Explore waterfalls

• • Take photographs from viewpoints

• • Visit Eravikulam National Park

Best Time: September to May
Ideal For: Families, honeymoon couples, nature lovers, photographers

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2. Alappuzha (Alleppey) – The Backwater Paradise

Location: Alappuzha district

Alappuzha is internationally famous for its peaceful backwaters and traditional houseboats. It is one of the most iconic Kerala holiday destinations and offers travelers the opportunity to experience village life from the waterways.

Main Attractions

• • Alappuzha backwaters

• • Houseboats

• • Punnamada Lake

• • Alappuzha Beach

• • Traditional villages

• • Vembanad Lake

Things to Do

• • Stay overnight on a houseboat

• • Enjoy a backwater cruise

• • Explore village areas

• • Try traditional Kerala food

• • Watch the sunset beside the backwaters

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners, families, international tourists

Kerala Tourism identifies Alappuzha as a world-renowned backwater destination, with Kuttanad and the Alappuzha backwaters among its key attractions.

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3. Kochi (Cochin) – History Meets Modern Kerala

Location: Ernakulam district

Kochi is a fascinating combination of history, culture, art, food, shopping, and modern city life. Fort Kochi is particularly popular for its colonial architecture, historic streets, art spaces, and famous Chinese fishing nets.

Main Attractions

• • Fort Kochi

• • Chinese fishing nets

• • Mattancherry Palace

• • Jewish heritage area

• • St. Francis Church

• • Marine Drive

• • Museums and art galleries

Things to Do

• • Walk around Fort Kochi

• • Watch fishermen operate the Chinese fishing nets

• • Explore historical buildings

• • Enjoy local seafood

• • Experience Kochi’s art and café culture

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Families, couples, history lovers, international tourists

Kochi was also Kerala’s most visited destination among foreign tourists in 2025 according to Kerala Tourism statistics.

4. Thekkady – Wildlife and Forest Adventures

Location: Idukki district

Thekkady is one of the best destinations in Kerala for wildlife experiences. It is home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where travelers can experience Kerala’s forests, lakes, and wildlife.

Main Attractions

• • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Periyar Lake

• • Bamboo rafting

• • Spice plantations

• • Forest trails

Things to Do

• • Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake

• • Take part in guided nature walks

• • Visit spice plantations

• • Explore forest areas

• • Enjoy wildlife experiences

Best Time: October to April
Ideal For: Wildlife lovers, families, adventure travelers

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5. Wayanad – Hills, Caves and Waterfalls

Location: Wayanad district

Wayanad is one of the most scenic places to visit in Kerala. Surrounded by forests and mountains, the region is known for waterfalls, caves, wildlife, lakes, trekking routes, and beautiful landscapes.

Main Attractions

• • Edakkal Caves

• • Soochipara Waterfalls

• • Pookode Lake

• • Kuruva Island

• • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Chembra Peak

Things to Do

• • Trek through the hills

• • Explore Edakkal Caves

• • Visit waterfalls

• • Enjoy wildlife experiences

• • Explore plantations and villages

Best Time: October to May
Ideal For: Families, adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts

Kerala Tourism’s Green Carpet initiative includes attractions such as Edakkal Caves, Kuruva Island, Pookode Lake and Kanthanpara Waterfalls among Wayanad’s tourism destinations.

6. Varkala – Cliffs, Beach and Sunset Views

Location: Thiruvananthapuram district

Varkala is famous for its dramatic cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea. It combines beach relaxation, beautiful sunsets, cafés, wellness experiences, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Main Attractions

• • Varkala Cliff

• • Varkala Beach

• • Papanasam Beach

• • Janardhana Swamy Temple

• • Local cafés and shops

Things to Do

• • Watch the sunset from the cliff

• • Relax at the beach

• • Enjoy seaside cafés

• • Explore local shops

• • Try yoga and wellness activities

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Couples, solo travelers, beach lovers

7. Kovalam – Kerala’s Classic Beach Destination

Location: Thiruvananthapuram district

Kovalam is one of Kerala’s most famous beach destinations. Its palm-lined coastline, lighthouse, resorts, and seaside activities make it popular among both Indian and international travelers.

Main Attractions

• • Lighthouse Beach

• • Hawah Beach

• • Samudra Beach

• • Vizhinjam

• • Lighthouse

Things to Do

• • Relax on the beach

• • Enjoy swimming where conditions are suitable

• • Watch the sunset

• • Explore the lighthouse area

• • Try seaside activities

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Families, couples, beach lovers

8. Kumarakom – Backwaters and Birdlife

Location: Kottayam district

Kumarakom is situated along the Vembanad Lake and is known for backwaters, luxury resorts, village scenery, and birdlife. It is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a peaceful and comfortable Kerala holiday.

Main Attractions

• • Kumarakom backwaters

• • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

• • Vembanad Lake

• • Luxury resorts

• • Traditional villages

Things to Do

• • Take a canoe ride

• • Enjoy a houseboat cruise

• • Visit the bird sanctuary

• • Experience village life

• • Relax at a backwater resort

Best Time: November to February
Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners, families, birdwatchers

9. Vagamon – Peaceful Green Hills

Location: Idukki/Kottayam region

Vagamon is a beautiful hill destination surrounded by green meadows, pine forests, valleys, and misty hills. It is a great alternative for travelers who want a quieter mountain experience.

Main Attractions

• • Vagamon Meadows

• • Pine Forest

• • Vagamon Lake

• • Thangalpara

• • Mountain viewpoints

Things to Do

• • Paragliding

• • Trekking

• • Nature walks

• • Camping

• • Photography

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Adventure lovers, couples, nature lovers

10. Bekal – Fort and Coastal Beauty

Location: Kasaragod district

Bekal is famous for its impressive seaside fort and beautiful coastal landscape. Bekal Fort offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea and is one of northern Kerala’s major attractions.

Main Attractions

• • Bekal Fort

• • Bekal Beach

• • Coastal viewpoints

• • Nearby backwaters and villages

Things to Do

• • Explore the fort

• • Enjoy beach walks

• • Watch the sunset

• • Photograph the coastline

• • Explore northern Kerala

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Families, couples, history lovers

11. Athirappilly – The Majestic Waterfall

Location: Thrissur district

Athirappilly is famous for its spectacular waterfall surrounded by lush forest. Often called one of Kerala’s most impressive natural attractions, it is an excellent destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Main Attractions

• • Athirappilly Waterfalls

• • Vazhachal Waterfalls

• • Forest landscape

• • Scenic viewpoints

Things to Do

• • View the waterfall

• • Explore nearby nature areas

• • Take photographs

• • Enjoy a scenic road trip

Best Time: June to January, depending on rainfall and local conditions
Ideal For: Families, nature lovers, photographers

12. Poovar – Island, Beach and Backwaters

Location: Thiruvananthapuram district

Poovar is a peaceful coastal destination where the sea, river, backwaters, and island landscapes come together. It is an excellent option for travelers looking for a relaxed holiday away from busy tourist areas.

Main Attractions

• • Poovar Beach

• • Golden Sand Beach

• • Poovar Island

• • Backwaters

• • Neyyar River

Things to Do

• • Take a boat ride

• • Explore the island

• • Relax at a resort

• • Enjoy sunset views

• • Experience the backwaters

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Honeymoon couples, families, luxury travelers

13. Kozhikode (Calicut) – Food, Beaches and History

Location: Kozhikode district

Kozhikode offers a wonderful combination of beaches, history, local food, and Malabar culture. It is particularly famous for its unique cuisine and historic connection with the spice trade.

Main Attractions

• • Kozhikode Beach

• • Kappad Beach

• • Mananchira Square

• • Beypore

• • Sarovaram Biopark

• • Historic markets

Things to Do

• • Try Malabar cuisine

• • Visit local markets

• • Enjoy the beach

• • Explore Beypore

• • Discover historical attractions

Kerala Tourism describes Kozhikode as an important region of the Malabar Coast with beaches, historic sites, wildlife, rivers, and hills.

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Food lovers, families, history lovers

14. Kannur – Beaches, Forts and Theyyam

Location: Kannur district

Kannur is known for beautiful beaches, historic forts, traditional art forms, and cultural heritage. It is an excellent destination for travelers who want to explore northern Kerala beyond the usual tourist circuit.

Main Attractions

• • Payyambalam Beach

• • Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach

• • St. Angelo Fort

• • Theyyam performances

• • Dharmadam Island

Things to Do

• • Enjoy beach drives

• • Visit historic forts

• • Experience Theyyam when available

• • Explore local villages

• • Taste Malabar cuisine

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Culture lovers, families, photographers

15. Kollam – Backwaters and Ashtamudi Lake

Location: Kollam district

Kollam is an important backwater destination and gateway to the beautiful Ashtamudi Lake. It offers a slower and more peaceful Kerala experience.

Main Attractions

• • Ashtamudi Lake

• • Kollam Beach

• • Munroe Island

• • Backwaters

• • Thangassery

Things to Do

• • Enjoy a houseboat cruise

• • Explore Munroe Island

• • Visit beaches

• • Experience village life

• • Take a canoe ride

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Families, couples, backwater lovers

Kerala Tourism describes Ashtamudi Lake as the gateway to the state’s magnificent backwaters.

16. Kuttanad – The Rice Bowl of Kerala

Location: Alappuzha region

Kuttanad is famous for its unique agricultural landscape, including farming areas located below sea level. Its canals, paddy fields, waterways, and traditional villages offer a different side of Kerala.

Main Attractions

• • Paddy fields

• • Backwaters

• • Canals

• • Traditional villages

• • Vembanad Lake region

Things to Do

• • Take a village boat ride

• • Explore paddy fields

• • Experience rural Kerala

• • Photograph the landscape

• • Enjoy local cuisine

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Nature lovers, photographers, families

17. Idukki – Mountains, Dams and Forests

Location: Central Kerala

Idukki is one of Kerala’s most scenic regions, filled with mountains, forests, dams, waterfalls, and wildlife. Munnar and Thekkady are also located in the wider Idukki region.

Main Attractions

• • Idukki Dam

• • Hill View Park

• • Ramakkalmedu

• • Forest areas

• • Mountain viewpoints

Things to Do

• • Trekking

• • Camping

• • Visit dams

• • Enjoy scenic drives

• • Explore nature

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Adventure travelers, nature lovers, families

18. Nelliyampathy – A Hidden Hill Escape

Location: Palakkad district

Nelliyampathy is a peaceful hill destination surrounded by plantations, forests, valleys, and mountain viewpoints. It is ideal for travelers who prefer less crowded destinations.

Main Attractions

• • Tea and coffee plantations

• • Mountain viewpoints

• • Forest landscapes

• • Pothundi Dam

• • Plantation areas

Things to Do

• • Enjoy scenic drives

• • Explore plantations

• • Go nature walking

• • Photograph mountain landscapes

• • Relax in nature

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Nature lovers, couples, photographers

19. Thiruvananthapuram – Heritage and Culture

Location: Southern Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, combines history, culture, temples, museums, palaces, and beaches. It is also a convenient base for exploring destinations such as Kovalam, Varkala and Poovar.

Main Attractions

• • Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

• • Napier Museum

• • Kuthira Malika Palace

• • Kanakakkunnu Palace

• • Kovalam

• • Shankhumukham Beach

Things to Do

• • Explore museums

• • Visit historic palaces

• • Experience Kerala’s culture

• • Visit temples

• • Enjoy nearby beaches

Kerala Tourism identifies Thiruvananthapuram as a city known for historic monuments, beaches, backwaters, and cultural heritage.

Best Time: October to March
Ideal For: Families, culture lovers, history enthusiasts

20. More Than One Destination: Build Your Own Kerala Experience

Kerala’s biggest advantage is that different travel experiences can be combined into one holiday. Instead of staying in one location, travelers can create a multi-destination trip covering hills, wildlife, backwaters, beaches, and culture.

For example:

Munnar → Thekkady → Alappuzha → Kochi

This route combines hill stations, wildlife, backwaters and heritage.

Another option is:

Kochi → Wayanad → Kannur → Bekal

This route is ideal for travelers interested in nature, culture, beaches and northern Kerala.

Kerala Tourism’s official route information can also help travelers understand distances and plan road journeys between destinations.

Best Tourist Places in Kerala for Every Type of Traveler

Kerala has something for everyone. Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, an adventure-filled trip, or a peaceful escape into nature, you can find the perfect destination here.

Best for Honeymoon Couples

For a romantic Kerala getaway, Munnar, Kumarakom, Alappuzha, Vagamon, and Poovar are excellent choices. Enjoy misty mountain views in Munnar, a peaceful houseboat ride in Alappuzha, or a relaxing stay surrounded by backwaters in Kumarakom.

Best for Families

Munnar, Thekkady, Wayanad, Kochi, and Kovalam are ideal for family holidays. From sightseeing and wildlife experiences to beaches and nature attractions, these destinations offer activities for different age groups.

Best for Adventure Lovers

If adventure is your priority, head to Wayanad, Vagamon, Idukki, or Thekkady. Trekking, paragliding, forest walks, camping, and other outdoor experiences make these destinations perfect for adventure seekers.

 Best for Nature Lovers

Nature enthusiasts can explore the breathtaking landscapes of Munnar, Wayanad, Athirappilly, and Nelliyampathy. Tea plantations, waterfalls, forests, mountains, and scenic viewpoints make these some of the best places to visit in Kerala for a nature escape.

 Best for Beach Holidays

Looking for sun, sea, and relaxation? Varkala, Kovalam, Bekal, Kannur, and Poovar offer beautiful coastal experiences. Varkala is especially known for its dramatic cliff views and unforgettable sunsets.

 Best for Wildlife Experiences

Thekkady and Wayanad are among the top Kerala destinations for wildlife lovers. Explore forests, enjoy guided nature experiences, and discover Kerala’s diverse wildlife in its natural surroundings.

Best for History & Culture

For history and culture, explore Kochi, Kannur, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram. Historic forts, palaces, museums, temples, traditional art forms, and local markets provide a deeper look into Kerala’s heritage.

Best for Backwater Experiences

For the classic Kerala backwater experience, choose Alappuzha, Kumarakom, Kollam, or Kuttanad. A houseboat or traditional canoe ride through the waterways is one of the most memorable experiences Kerala has to offer.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, solo explorer, or group, Fly Desert Travel Services can help you choose the right Kerala destinations and create a holiday itinerary that matches your interests and budget.

Popular Things to Do in Kerala

A Kerala holiday is not just about visiting sightseeing places. There are many experiences that make the trip memorable.

 Enjoy a Houseboat Cruise

A traditional Kerala houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alappuzha or Kumarakom is one of the most popular experiences.

 Go Trekking

Munnar, Wayanad, Vagamon and Idukki offer opportunities to explore Kerala’s hills and forests.

 Experience Wildlife

Visit Thekkady or Wayanad to experience Kerala’s forests and wildlife.

 Try an Ayurvedic Experience

Kerala is well known for Ayurveda, wellness treatments, yoga and traditional rejuvenation experiences. Kerala Tourism also promotes Ayurveda and wellness retreats as an important part of the state’s tourism offerings.

 Enjoy Beach Activities

Relax at Varkala, Kovalam, Bekal, Kannur or Poovar and enjoy Kerala’s coastline.

Experience Kerala Culture

Depending on the season and location, travelers can experience traditional art forms such as Theyyam, Kathakali and other cultural performances.

Taste Kerala Cuisine

Don’t miss local dishes such as appam and stew, Kerala sadya, Malabar biryani, seafood, puttu and kadala curry.

How to Combine Destinations into a Kerala Holiday

The best itinerary depends on your available time.

3-Day Kerala Itinerary

Day 1: Kochi sightseeing → Fort Kochi
Day 2: Alappuzha → Houseboat/backwater experience
Day 3: Alappuzha → Kochi departure

Best for: Short holidays and first-time visitors

5-Day Kerala Itinerary

Day 1: Kochi
Day 2: Kochi → Munnar
Day 3: Munnar sightseeing
Day 4: Munnar → Alappuzha
Day 5: Alappuzha → Kochi departure

Best for: Couples and families

7-Day Kerala Itinerary

Day 1: Kochi
Day 2: Kochi → Munnar
Day 3: Munnar sightseeing
Day 4: Munnar → Thekkady
Day 5: Thekkady → Alappuzha
Day 6: Alappuzha houseboat/backwaters
Day 7: Alappuzha → Kochi departure

Best for: First-time travelers wanting a mix of hills, wildlife and backwaters.

Practical Travel Tips for Kerala

Transportation

Kerala has airports at major locations including Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, while road and rail connections make it possible to travel between major destinations. For hill stations and remote areas, private cars or taxis can be more convenient.

Accommodation

Choose accommodation according to your travel style. Kerala offers everything from budget hotels and homestays to luxury resorts, wellness retreats and houseboats.

Local Food

Try authentic Kerala cuisine at local restaurants, homestays and traditional eateries. Food preferences and spice levels can vary, so international travelers can ask restaurants for milder options.

Weather

Kerala’s weather changes significantly between the coast, hills and monsoon season. Carry light clothing, comfortable footwear, sunscreen and rain protection depending on your travel dates.

Book in Advance

During peak holiday periods, popular destinations such as Munnar, Alleppey, Thekkady and Varkala can become busy. Booking flights, hotels, houseboats and sightseeing in advance can make your trip smoother.

Planning Your Kerala Holiday from Abu Dhabi?

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Why Plan Your Kerala Holiday with Fly Desert Travel Services?

A great holiday starts with good planning. When your destination, flights, accommodation, sightseeing, and transportation are all planned properly, you can spend less time worrying about arrangements and more time enjoying your trip.

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Conclusion

Kerala, known as God’s Own Country, offers a perfect mix of hill stations, backwaters, beaches, wildlife, heritage, and cultural experiences. From the tea plantations of Munnar and peaceful backwaters of Alappuzha and Kumarakom to the beaches of Varkala, Kovalam, and Bekal, there are plenty of the best tourist places in Kerala to explore. Whether you are planning a family holiday, honeymoon, adventure trip, or relaxing getaway, Kerala has something for every traveler.

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