Places of Interest
Often called "God’s Own Country," Kerala has it all—backwaters, beaches, mountains, and waterfalls, offering a complete nature-packed experience. The locals are educated and helpful. The food is healthy and affordable. Best time to visit: October to February to avoid the monsoon season and summer heat. Book flights early to save, and research hotels, as many areas don’t have nearby dining options. Bikes are recommended for sightseeing in hill stations.
Weather
Temperature: 30.99°C, Humidity: 51%, Wind Speed: 2.82 m/s. (Updated on 2025-01-17 13:02:35)
Sightseeing
Kochi (0.00 km, 2.5 )
Saint Francis church (0.74 km), Fort Kochi (0.83 km), Chinese fishing nets (0.86 km, 2.5 ), Indo-Portuguese museum (0.94 km), Fort Kochi beach (1.05 km), Mattancherry palace (1.95 km), Bolgatty palace (6.33 km), Marine drive (7.92 km), Willingdon island (9.49 km), Kumbalangi (12.95 km), Jew street (13.29 km), Athirappilly falls (78.05 km)
Allepey (55.88 km, 3 )
Allepey beach (2.21 km), Marari beach (14.15 km), Krishna swamy temple (15.46 km)
Kumarakom (60.16 km)
Kumarakom bird sanctuary (3.78 km)
Munnar (131.65 km, 5 )
Kolukkumalai tea estate (1.46 km), Pothamedu view point (4.35 km), Mattupetty dam (11.06 km), Chokramudi (11.68 km), Anamudi (25.79 km), Kundala dam (77.18 km), Top station (80.26 km)
Thekkady (162.32 km)
Periyar lake (0.32 km), Green park spices (7.29 km), Abraham's Spice Garden (7.72 km), Chellarkovil view point (18.09 km), Mullaperiyar dam (26.05 km), Gavi (42.74 km), Periyar national park (188.50 km)
Varkala (182.19 km, 5 )
Janardhanana Swamy temple (1.87 km), Sivagiri Mutt (2.32 km), Varkala beach (2.48 km, 4 ), Black sand beach (4.43 km), Kappil beach (9.51 km), Anjengo lighthouse (10.28 km), Thanni beach (31.99 km), Jatayu rock (34.71 km), Munroe island (47.03 km)
Trivandrum (214.92 km, 3 )
Padmanabhaswamy temple (1.37 km, 4 ), Napier museum (4.11 km), Shanghumugham beach (7.52 km), Kovalam beach (12.89 km), Kovalam lighthouse (13.40 km), Aazhimala Shiva temple (18.35 km), Neyyar wildlife sanctuary (34.81 km)
Kanyakumari (308.85 km, 4.5 )
Sunrise point (0.12 km), Kanyakumari Amman temple (0.12 km), Gandhi memorial (0.14 km), Kanyakumari beach (1.34 km), Thiruvalluvar statue (1.88 km), Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial (1.89 km), Sunset point (2.51 km), Padmanabhapuram palace (34.70 km)
Other Places
Vaikom (39.30 km), Kalady (51.15 km), Kodanad (62.06 km), Thodupuzha (65.67 km), Kottayam (70.62 km), Thattekad bird sanctuary (74.76 km), Thrissur (79.88 km), Guruvayur (82.56 km), Ponnani (104.40 km), Vagamon (107.83 km), Mundakkayam (108.70 km), Ranni (118.76 km), Pathanamthitta (121.86 km), Kattappana (132.04 km), Peermade (133.09 km), Palakkad (134.58 km), Malakkappara (134.64 km), Devikulum (138.50 km), Kollam (138.72 km), Malampuzha (141.62 km), Nelliyampathy (145.93 km), Malappuram (152.20 km), Mannarkkad (157.31 km), Kumily (158.45 km), Kozhikode (170.70 km), Silent valley national park (171.83 km), Thenmala (175.24 km), Nilambur (178.00 km), Sabarimala (179.21 km), Attappadi (181.11 km), Ponmudi (223.76 km), Bonacaud (226.22 km), Kovalam (226.91 km), Vythiri (233.96 km), Mahe (236.58 km), Agasthyamala (240.36 km), Wayanad (243.57 km), Kalpetta (244.02 km), Thalassery (244.14 km), Thirparappu falls (249.79 km), Kurumbalakotta mala (259.86 km), Chembra peak (260.10 km), Muthanga wildlife sanctuary (261.84 km), Kannur (267.23 km), Mananthavady (272.92 km), Tholpetty (290.78 km), Paithalmala (311.12 km), Bekal (341.10 km), Kasaragod (349.98 km)
Hiking
Thekkady (162.32 km)
Chellarkovil view point (18.09 km)
Munnar (131.65 km, 5 )
Chokramudi (11.68 km), Anamudi (25.79 km)
Other Places
Kalpetta (244.02 km), Thenmala (175.24 km), Silent valley national park (171.83 km), Kumily (158.45 km), Ranni (118.76 km), Thodupuzha (65.67 km), Kurumbalakotta mala (259.86 km), Chembra peak (260.10 km), Mundakkayam (108.70 km), Paithalmala (311.12 km), Agasthyamala (240.36 km)
Day / Multi-Day Tours
Description
Aazhimala Shiva temple
Alternate name: Azhimala Siva temple
Photo Gallery for Aazhimala Shiva temple
Abraham's Spice Garden
Photo Gallery for Abraham's Spice Garden
Agasthyamala
Agasthyamala is known for its challenging trek through dense forests, rich wildlife, and medicinal plant diversity. The area surrounding Agasthyamala is part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, and it is home to rare flora and fauna. Altitude: 1,868 meters (6,129 feet). Alternate name: Agasthyamalai, Agasthyakoodam.
Allepey
Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East, is famous for its backwaters and traditional houseboat cruises. One can explore the network of canals, lagoons, and lakes while staying in a houseboat. The backwaters' tourism can be crowded due to its popularity. Alternate name: Alappuzha.
Photo Gallery for Allepey
Allepey beach
Alternate name: Alappuzha beach.
Photo Gallery for Allepey beach
Anamudi
Photo Gallery for Anamudi
Anjengo lighthouse
Photo Gallery for Anjengo lighthouse
Athirappilly falls
Alternate name: Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls.
Photo Gallery for Athirappilly falls
Attappadi
Attappadi is a unique combination of tribal culture, forested hills, and scenic valleys. It is bordered by the Silent Valley National Park, making it a biodiversity hotspot with many rare species of plants and animals. The region is also known for its highland climate, rivers such as the Bhavani River, and agricultural activities, particularly millet and banana cultivation.
Bekal
Black sand beach
Photo Gallery for Black sand beach
Bolgatty palace
Photo Gallery for Bolgatty palace
Bonacaud
Photo Gallery for Bonacaud
Chellarkovil view point
Alternate name: Chellarcovil.
Chembra peak
Chembra Peak is part of the Western Ghats and is surrounded by lush green tea plantations, forests, and rolling hills. The trek to the peak typically starts from the base camp at Meppadi, and the trail offers scenic vistas along the way. The heart-shaped lake, known as Chembra Lake, is a significant attraction and is believed to never dry up.
Chinese fishing nets
Photo Gallery for Chinese fishing nets
Chokramudi
Devikulum
Devikulam is a small hill station in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. Located about 16 kilometers from Munnar, it is known for its tea gardens, cool climate, and scenic views. The area features the Sita Devi Lake, which is a popular spot for picnics. Devikulam is ideal for those looking to relax in nature.
Fort Kochi
Photo Gallery for Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi beach
Photo Gallery for Fort Kochi beach
Gandhi memorial
Alternate name: Gandhi mandapam.
Photo Gallery for Gandhi memorial
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Gavi
Photo Gallery for Gavi
Green park spices
Guruvayur
A prominent pilgrimage site known for its famous temple and rich cultural significance. Visitors can experience traditional rituals and local festivals. The area features local markets and eateries, providing a glimpse into the region's religious and cultural heritage.
Indo-Portuguese museum
Photo Gallery for Indo-Portuguese museum
Janardhanana Swamy temple
Jatayu rock
Photo Gallery for Jatayu rock
Jew street
Jew Street in Kochi is a historic street located in the Mattancherry area. It is known for its Jewish heritage, with old synagogues and unique architecture. The street features shops selling antiques, spices, and local crafts. It is a popular tourist spot, reflecting the multicultural history of Kochi.
Kalady
Kalady is home to several temples and cultural sites, with the Adi Shankaracharya's Birthplace being the most prominent. The town features the Kalady Sree Sankara Narayana Temple and the Sankara Acharya Mandapam, which attract pilgrims and visitors interested in spiritual heritage. The Periyar River flows nearby, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.
Kalpetta
A hill town surrounded by coffee plantations and scenic landscapes. Known for its cool climate and natural beauty, it offers trekking and viewpoints. The area provides a peaceful atmosphere for exploring nature and local culture.
Kannur
A vibrant coastal district with beautiful beaches and rich history. Known for its cultural festivals, they offer local arts, crafts, and traditional music. The landscape includes hills and forts, providing opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, is famous for its sunrise and sunset views of the Indian Ocean. This coastal town is where the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean meet. Kanyakumari is in Tamil Nadu, but it is very close to Kerala.
Photo Gallery for Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari Amman temple
It is a famous pilgrimage site dedicated to the virgin goddess, located near the beach and known for its religious significance and architecture.
Kanyakumari beach
It is where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet, offering beautiful sunrise and sunset views. The waters are rough, making it unsuitable for swimming.
Photo Gallery for Kanyakumari beach
Kappil beach
Photo Gallery for Kappil beach
Kasaragod
A coastal district known for its scenic beaches and rich cultural heritage. It features historic forts, temples, and diverse landscapes, including hills and backwaters. The area offers opportunities for exploring local traditions and enjoying nature.
Kattappana
Situated in the Western Ghats, Kattappana is famous for its spice plantations, particularly cardamom and black pepper
Kochi
Known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, it offers a mix of colonial charm, backwaters, and bustling markets. Not much to do in the city otherwise. Airport access: Yes. Alternate name: Cochin.
Kodanad
Kodanad is a village in Ernakulam district, Kerala, located by the Periyar River. It's known for the Kodanad Elephant Training Center, where visitors can see and learn about elephants. The area is surrounded by lush greenery and offers boat rides on the river, making it a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
Kollam
A coastal city with a rich maritime history, known for its backwaters and seafood. Visitors can explore scenic beaches, historic sites, and local markets. The area offers opportunities for boat rides and experiencing local culture.
Kolukkumalai tea estate
Photo Gallery for Kolukkumalai tea estate
Kottayam
A scenic town famous for its backwaters, rubber plantations, and lakes. Known for its cultural heritage, it offers serene landscapes and opportunities for houseboat rides. A great place to experience local traditions and the beauty of Kerala’s nature.
Kovalam
A popular beach destination known for its stunning coastline and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, water sports, and exploring nearby shops and restaurants. The area features lighthouses and opportunities for relaxation by the sea.
Kovalam beach
Photo Gallery for Kovalam beach
Kovalam lighthouse
Alternate name: Vizhinjam lighthouse.
Photo Gallery for Kovalam lighthouse
Kozhikode
Krishna swamy temple
Alternate name: Krishna swami temple
Photo Gallery for Krishna swamy temple
Kumarakom
Kumarakom is known for its serene backwaters and lush greenery. Houseboat cruises through the backwaters offer a relaxing experience amidst coconut groves and paddy fields.
Photo Gallery for Kumarakom
Kumarakom bird sanctuary
Photo Gallery for Kumarakom bird sanctuary
Kumbalangi
"Kumbalangi Nights" was filmed in this village.
Photo Gallery for Kumbalangi
Kumily
A charming town surrounded by lush hills and spice plantations. Known for its vibrant markets, trekking opportunities, and wildlife experiences, including the nearby Periyar National Park. It’s a great place to explore nature and enjoy local flavors.
Kundala dam
Photo Gallery for Kundala dam
Kurumbalakotta mala
Kurumbalakotta Mala is a hill in Wayanad, Kerala, known for its scenic views and trekking trails. It offers rich wildlife and beautiful landscapes. The area is accessible by road from nearby towns like Kalpetta and Mananthavady.
Mahe
Mahe is a small coastal town in the Union Territory of Puducherry, surrounded by Kerala. It features beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, and a mix of French and Indian cultures. Key attractions include the Mahe Fort and local churches. The town is known for its relaxed atmosphere and is accessible by road from nearby cities.
Malakkappara
Malakkappara, in Idukki district, Kerala, is known for its tea plantations and beautiful scenery. It's a peaceful hill station, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor activities. The area has a pleasant climate, making it a great spot for a quick getaway.
Malampuzha
The place features a large dam, gardens, and scenic landscapes. Known for its boating activities and a cable car ride, it offers a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and outdoor activities. Ideal for families and nature lovers.
Malappuram
Malappuram is a city in Kerala, India, known for its rich cultural heritage and history. Located about 50 kilometers from Kochi, it features beautiful landscapes and is surrounded by hills and rivers. Key attractions include ancient temples, mosques, and historical sites. Malappuram is also known for its vibrant local festivals and cuisine.
Mananthavady
Mananthavady is a town in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. Located about 30 kilometers from Kalpetta, it is surrounded by hills and forests. The area is known for its natural beauty, spice plantations, and wildlife. Key attractions include the Thirunelli Temple and the nearby Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mannarkkad
Mannarkkad is a town in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India. Located about 20 kilometers from Palakkad city, it is surrounded by hills and forests. The town is known for its agriculture and is close to the Silent Valley National Park. Key attractions include local temples and scenic spots nearby.
Marari beach
Photo Gallery for Marari beach
Marine drive
Photo Gallery for Marine drive
Mattancherry palace
Photo Gallery for Mattancherry palace
Mattupetty dam
Photo Gallery for Mattupetty dam
Mullaperiyar dam
Photo Gallery for Mullaperiyar dam
Mundakkayam
Mundakkayam is surrounded by hills and is often referred to as a gateway to the high ranges of Kerala. It is known for its plantations, especially rubber and spices. Alternate name: Mundakayam.
Munnar
Munnar is famous for its lush tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and cool climate. Best time to visit: September to March. Bikes are recommended for travel as they are easy to park on narrow roads.
Photo Gallery for Munnar
Munroe island
Munroe island is a hidden gem accessible only by boat, offering serene backwaters far from the tourist-heavy spots like Alleppey. This place is perfect for those seeking calm and stillness. The highlight is a 2-hour canoe ride through mangroves and small tunnels—best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset. Unlike speedboats, canoes offer a more intimate experience, allowing you to navigate narrow passages and truly soak in the peaceful surroundings. Though it may feel slow at first, the beauty and tranquillity make it unforgettable. Carry snacks, as there’s nothing available during the ride. Dine at Friends restaurant for amazing parotta and curry! Alternate name: Munroe Thuruth.
Photo Gallery for Munroe island
Muthanga wildlife sanctuary
A vast forested area with diverse wildlife, offering a chance to spot elephants, deer, and various bird species. The sanctuary has safari options and is known for its dense greenery and tranquil environment.
Napier museum
Photo Gallery for Napier museum
Nelliyampathy
Neyyar wildlife sanctuary
Nilambur
Padmanabhapuram palace
Photo Gallery for Padmanabhapuram palace
Padmanabhaswamy temple
Long queues. Restrictions: No electronic devices are allowed inside the temple. Dress code: Dhoti (Mundu) for men; saree or mundu set for women.
Photo Gallery for Padmanabhaswamy temple
Paithalmala
Difficulty: Moderate. Altitude: 1,450 meters (4,757 feet). Paithalmala is known for its rich biodiversity, including various species of flora and fauna. The trek to the peak takes you through lush green forests, grasslands, and picturesque landscapes. The area is part of the Paithalmala Forest Reserve, home to many unique plant and animal species.
Palakkad
Pathanamthitta
A tranquil region known for its temples, rivers, and lush greenery. It’s a great spot for pilgrimages and nature escapes, offering a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views. Ideal for a laid-back experience amidst nature and culture.
Peermade
A tranquil hill station known for its tea plantations and scenic views. The area features lush landscapes, waterfalls, and opportunities for trekking. It is suitable for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Alternate name: Peerumedu.
Periyar lake
Photo Gallery for Periyar lake
Periyar national park
Photo Gallery for Periyar national park
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Ponmudi
Photo Gallery for Ponmudi
Ponnani
A coastal town with a rich cultural heritage and picturesque beaches. Known for its historical sites, traditional fishing practices, and vibrant local life. The scenic waterfront and nearby backwaters offer a relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
Pothamedu view point
Photo Gallery for Pothamedu view point
Ranni
Ranni is a town in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, about 40 kilometers from Kochi. It is surrounded by hills and rivers, offering beautiful scenery. Ranni is known for trekking, plantation visits, and local wildlife. Key attractions include Ranni Church, temples, and nearby waterfalls.
Sabarimala
Saint Francis church
India’s oldest European church. Alternate name: St. Francis church.
Photo Gallery for Saint Francis church
Shanghumugham beach
Silent valley national park
A pristine tropical rainforest known for its rich biodiversity and untouched landscapes. Home to various endemic species and rare flora, it offers trekking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility and stunning scenery.
Sivagiri Mutt
Sunrise point
Beach in Kanyakumari. Alternate name: Sunrise beach.
Photo Gallery for Sunrise point
Sunset point
Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial
Accessible via ferry from Kanyakumari. Long queues for the ferry. There's a separate line if you pay a little extra, but that line is also long.
Photo Gallery for Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial
Thalassery
Thanni beach
Photo Gallery for Thanni beach
Thattekad bird sanctuary
A haven for bird lovers with over 300 species, including rare and migratory birds. The sanctuary is lush, with rivers and wetlands enhancing the birdwatching experience. Peaceful trails make it perfect for nature walks and bird photography.
Thekkady
Thekkady is ideal for those looking to experience wildlife, nature, and the serene beauty of Kerala’s Western Ghats.
Photo Gallery for Thekkady
Thenmala
A peaceful eco-tourism destination with lush greenery and diverse wildlife. It offers activities like trekking, boating, and exploring nature. The area includes a dam and an adventure park, suitable for outdoor activities.
Thirparappu falls
Thirparappu falls is formed by the Kodayar river.
Thiruvalluvar statue
Photo Gallery for Thiruvalluvar statue
Thodupuzha
Thodupuzha is a town in Idukki district, Kerala, about 50 kilometers from Kochi. Surrounded by hills and rivers, it offers a pleasant climate and beautiful scenery. The area is known for adventure activities like trekking and river rafting. Key attractions include the Thodupuzha River and various temples.
Tholpetty
Tholpetty is a small village in Wayanad district, Kerala, known for the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary. It is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, deer, and various bird species. The sanctuary offers safari tours for nature lovers. Tholpetty is a peaceful destination for those seeking wildlife experiences and natural beauty.
Thrissur
Top station
Photo Gallery for Top station
Trivandrum
Alternate name: Thiruvananthapuram. Airport access: Yes.
Photo Gallery for Trivandrum
Vagamon
Vaikom
The Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a major pilgrimage center, and the annual Vaikathashtami festival attracts thousands of devotees. The town also has beautiful backwaters and is close to popular tourist destinations like Kumarakom and Alleppey.
Varkala
Varkala is known for its cliffside views and pristine beaches. Popular amongst backpackers. Surfing lessons and other adventure sports are available.
Photo Gallery for Varkala
Varkala beach
Alternate name: Papanasam beach.
Photo Gallery for Varkala beach
Vythiri
Wayanad
Willingdon island
Photo Gallery for Willingdon island
Author
- Anurag Gupta is a frequent traveller and an advocate of eco-tourism and sustainable living. He believes in opensource technology, and wants to promote technology for eco-living. He is an M.S. graduate in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Cornell University. He also holds an M.Tech degree in Systems and Control Engineering and a B.Tech degree in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay.
- Megha Purvey is a travel and food blogger. After earning an Electrical Engineering degree, she began her career in IT but soon shifted paths. A brief stint at IIM followed, though she ultimately chose to pursue banking. Alongside her professional journey, she developed a passion for food, travel, and photography, which she showcases on her instagram page foodntraveltales24x7.
Acknowledgement and Collaboration
I want to thank everyone who shared their travel plans and itinerary to make my life easier. If you want to add/correct something on this webpage, write an email to anuragg@in2eco.com, or message Anurag Gupta on instagram. Many images have been used from internet. Refer to image name for details. Proper credits will be added soon.