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Places to Visit in Kerala

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Kerala, a surreal destination where the morning brings in the mist and magic. Fondly called the “ God’s Own Country ”, this is the place where the  backwaters  hold everyone captive with their alluring silence. Yes, it’s the ‘ Spice Capital of India ’ where the evening wishes adieu with some of the enchanting melodiesplayed by Mother Nature. Yes, such is the beauty and appeal of Kerala!Let loose the wanderlust in you and plan a trip to this prismatic land; there are an array of  places to visit in Kerala . Make sure you make it to all these destinations and curate some of the most pleasing memories out of your trip. And in case, you are finding it tough to decide the destinations to cover, here is a sorted list of  tourist places  that will fill your travelogue with fun, frolic and excitement:

• Alleppey Wayanad Cochin Munnar Kumarakom Kovalam Kollam Vagamon Kozhikode Kumarakom Thekkady Ashtamudi Bekal Guruvayur Idukki Kannur Kasargod Backwaters Kavvayi Backwaters Kizhunna Beach Kuttanad Malampuzha Malappuram Marari Munroe Island Nelliampathy Palakkad Ponmudi Poovar Thiruvananthapuram Thrissur Varkala

1 Alleppey (Alappuzha):

There is the whole of Kerala in one side, and then there is this heavenly tourist destination called Alappuzha or Alleppey! Esteemed as the ‘Backwater Capital of India’ or the ‘Venice of the East’, Alleppey is known for its silent backwaters and bountiful beauty!

Seated on the banks of the azure Vembanad Lake, it is in fact one of the most popular backwater destinations in Kerala and one of the highest sought-aftertourist places in Kerala. Visit this paradise; enjoy houseboat cruise and stay, village walks, Ayurvedic therapies and lot more!

Also see :  Top 10 Backwater Resorts in Kerala

Year-round destination

Vembanad Lake , Alleppey Beach, Marari Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Pathiramanal, Kuttanad Backwaters, Arthunkal Church, Ambalapuzha Temple, Mannarshala Temple, Karumadikuttan Statue, St. Mary Rorane Church

Alleppey Railway Station

Summer (April – June), Winter (October – Mid March), Monsoon (July – September)

Cradled in the lap of the Western Ghats, Wayanad truly deserves a top rank in the list of  places to visit in Kerala . Situated at an astounding height of 700-2,100m, this stunning hill station is all about fantasy, untouched nature, unforgettable moments, and merriment!

Adding more to  Wayanad’s  enchanting beauty, visitors can also revisit and unfold history while visiting this hilly retreat. Yes, the lush and pristine forests in Wayanad are said to be inhabited more than 3,000 years ago.

You may also like : Most Popular Hill Stations in Kerala

Year-round Destination

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary , Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Peak, Soochipara Falls, Sentinel Rock Falls, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Kuruva Island, Pookode Lake, Lakkidi, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Pakshipathalam, Edakkal Caves, SulthanBthery, Chain Tree

Calicut International Airport (98km)

Nilambur Railway Station (92km / 3 Hours)

Summer (March - May), Winter (December - February), Monsoon (June - September)

Kochi  or Cochin is a unique placein  God’s Own Country  that is perfectly blended with cultural values and modern ideas! Fondly called the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, this imposing port-city has always been an attraction point since the beginning of history.

A melting point of numerous culture and traditions, Cochin has embraced all the modern outlook to become one of the most developed metropolis in India. Be it the essence of the Dutch establishments, British history, Chinese nets, or the traditional spice markets, Cochin will surely make you fall in love once again!

You may also like : Why Kochi should be your next travel destination

July (Beginning of Monsoon) to April (Early Summer)

Fort Kochi, Vypeen Island, Vypeen Beach, Cherai Beach, Andhakaranzhi Beach, Marine Drive, Bolghatty Island, Guruvayoor, Chinese Fishing Nets, St. FrnacisChirch, Basilica of Santa Cruz, Thrikkara Temple, Kanjiramattam Masjid, Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara, Jewish Synagogue, Cochin Cultural Centre, Malayattoor, Mattancherry, Lulu Mall (Largest Mall in India), Kodannad Elephant Training Centre, Hill Palace Museum, Edappally Museum, Princess Street, Kerala Kathakali Centre, Vasco Da Gama Square

Kochi International Airport

Kochi Railway Junction

Summer (March - June), Winter (July - September), Monsoon (October - February)

Yet another gorgeous hill station in the lap of the fascinating Western Ghats, Munnar needs no introduction. Rising 1,600m above the sea level, a vacation in the beguiling locales of this hilly retreat is all about the lofty clouds, picturesque mountains, rolling hills, and a soothing ambience.

Canopied mostly by never-ending tea plantations and lush forests, you simply cannot miss out Munnar while searching for the best  tourist destination in Kerala . Be it during the summer or the winter, monsoon or the spring, Munnar will always make you crave for more!

You may also like : Things to do in Munnar & Places to Visit in Munnar

Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Pothamedu View Point, Anamudi, Blossom Park, Devikulam, Pallivasal, TATA Tea Museum, Vattavada, Attukal Waterfalls, Cheeyapara Waterfalls, Kundala Lake, Nyayamakad, Meesapulimala, Kolukkumalai, Lock-Hart Gap, Chithirapuram, Rajamala, Top Station, Marayoor Dolmens, Indo Swiss Diary Farm, Lite of Pi Church,

Cochin International Airport (125km)

Ernakulam Junction (128km / 4 Hours)

5 Kumarakom:

Adorned by the magical charm of the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is another beguiling  backwater destination in God’s Own Country. Located within the proximity to Kottayam city, this is the place where even being lazy is also one of the best things you can do during your Kerala holidays.

Adorned by the charm of the emerald Vembanad Lake, the evergreen coconut grooves, breezy rice fields, and lot more, Kumarakom is popular among all the types of visitors. However, backwater cruise and houseboat stays are the most popular thing to do in this beautiful tourist destination.

You may also like : List of Backwater Destinations in Kerala

September (Monsoon End) to March (Winter End)

If you are a beach goer, and is still assuming none can beat the charm and allurement of Goa or other popular beach destinations, you must visit Kovalam today! Located along the coastlines of the charismatic Arabian Sea, this beach town is undoubtedly one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Kerala.

Located only 16km from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala,  Kovalam  is the home to some of the most picturesque and playful beaches in the country. While in here, you can stroll around, indulge in beach activities or in other fun-filled activities around Kovalam Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach.

You may also like : Places to Visit in Kovalam & Best Beaches in Kerala

September (Monsoon End) to March (Beginning of Summer)

Vellayani Lake, Lighthouse Beach, Chowara Beach, Kovalam Beach, Hawah Beach, Samudra Beach, Shangumkham Beach, Neyyar Dam, Aruvikkara Dam, Edakallu, Karamana River, Halcyon Castle, Kovalam Art Gallery, Valiyathura Pier, Veli Tourist Village, Artificial Coral Reef, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Temple, Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, Naiper Art Museum, Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple,

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (16km)

Trivandrum Central Railway Station (13km)

Summer (March - June), Winter (November - February), Monsoon (July - September)

7 Thekkady:

Considering that you want more from your Kerala holidays, you should not miss a trip to Thekkady, the evergreen abode of God’s Own Country! Strategically located and well-connected with some of the major Kerala holiday destinations, this is the place that always wears the green colour of Mother Nature!

The ‘Spice Capital of Kerala’, Thekkady is much popular as the natural abode to numerous exotic wildlife species. And while talking about wildlife species, the  Periyar National Park  in Thekkady will surely behold all your senses with its fascinating range of dwellers!

You may also like: Offbeat Things to do in Thekkady &  Places to Visit in Thekkady

October to February (Winter)

Periyar National Park, Periyar Lake, Gavi, Kumily, Caramom Hills, Spring Valley Mountain, Pandikuzhi, Chellarkovil, Panchalimedu, Vandiperiyar, Grampi, Mangala Devi Temple

Madurai Airport (140km), Kochi International Airport (265km)

Kottayam Railway Station (107km / 3 Hours)

Summer (March - May), Winter (October - February), Monsoon (June - September)

A quaint port-city in God’s Own Country, Kollam has its own charm and appeal. Enthralled by the turquoise Lakshadweep Sea and caressed by the emerald Ashtamudi Lake, it is a picture-perfect holiday destination in the list of the most appealing or enticing tourist places in India’s ‘Backwater Capital’.

While in Kollam, you can feel and experience the indigenous cultures and traditions of Kerala in the most vivid way. Be it fishing, agriculture, cashew processing, or tourism, this port-city holds a prominent place among the visitors. For the beach lovers, they can revel around the Kollam Beach, Tangasseri Beach and Thirumullavaram Beach.

You may also like: Best Beaches in Kerala & List of Backwater Destination in Kerala

August (Mid Monsoon) to March (Beginning of Summer)

Dutch Quilon, Thirumullavaram Beach, Kollam Beach, Ashtamudi Lake, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Paravoor, Punalur, Thenmala, Mayyanad, Deer Park, Thevalli Palace, British Residency, Chavara, Jatayupara, Thangasseri, Rameshwara Temple, Sasthamkotta, Ochira,KottarakkaraKathakali Museum, Picnic Village, Munore Island, Neendakara Port

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (51km), Kochi International Airport (129km)

Kollam Railway Junction

If you are looking for an offbeat, yet captivating holiday experience in Kerala, you must plan your vacation in Vagamon . One of the most scenic hill stations and least explored tourist places in Kerala, this retreat in the Idukki district is known for its salubrious beauty, pleasant climate, and much more.

In addition to leisure travellers, thrill and adventure seekers also make it to Vagamon in a considerable number. A year-round destination, it is considered as an ideal destination for adventure activities like paragliding, mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, and lot more.

You may also like:  Most Beautiful Hill Stations in Kerala  & Best Adventure Things to do in Kerala

Murinjupuzha Water Falls, Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary, ElaveezhaPoonchira, Idukki Arch Dam, Pine Hills, Parumthumpara Point, Kurisumala, Peermade, Mangala Devi Temple, Pattumalai Church, Kuttikanam Palace,

Cochin International Airport (75km)

Kottayam Railway Station (64km / 2 Hours)

Summer (March - June), Winter (October - March), Monsoon (July - September)

10 Kozhikode:

You won’t be wrong if you call this metropolis as the ‘City of Spices’, ‘City of Truth’ or the ‘City of Sculptures’. Well, all these synonyms are hardly enough to describe the aura and essence of Kozhikode or Calicut! This kaleidoscopic city is much more than a tourist destination.

Located on the Malabar Coast, Kozhikode or Calicut is esteemed as one of the diverse and best places to visit in Kerala. Dotted with an array of historical landmarks, tourist spots and attractions, this wonderful city is also a lively reminiscent of the Dutch and British eras in India.

You may also like: List of Tourist Attraction in Kerala

July to April

Kappad Beach, Kozhikode Beach, Beypore Beach, Kozhippara Falls, Thusharagiri Falls, Thikkoti Lighthouse, Kadalundi, Tali Temple, Lion's Park, Kalipoyika, Mananchira Square, Krishna Menon Museum, Peruvannamuzhi Dam

Calicut International Airport (28km)

Kozhikode Railway Station

Summer (April - May), Winter (October - March), Monsoon (July - September)

11 Ashtamudi:

A quaint city in the warm locales of Kollam, Ashtamudi lies on the outer edges of the alluring Ashtamudi Lake. While a bustling trade centre in the past, it now attracts an impressive number of visitors form different corners of the globe. Visitors usually throng Ashtamudi to enjoy its impeccable beauty and treat themselves with the bucolic ambience of God’s Own Country. While in this pictorial city, you can witness cashew processing, coir manufacturing plans, traditional fishing, and lot more.

You may also like:  God’s Own Country at Its Best!

November to February (Winter)

Ashtamudi Lake, Thevally Palace, Alumkadavu Boat Building Yard, Monroe Island,

Trivandrum International Airport (71km)

Kollam Junction (15km / 1 Hour)

Summer (March - May), Winter (November - February), Monsoon (June - September)

Located in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, Bekal is among the most scenic hamlets you can ever visit while on a Kerala tour. A combined beauty of the mighty Arabian Sea and lush landscapes, this tiny, yet pictorial village is of utmost historical importance. The glorious Bekal Fort testifies this fact vividly.

Serving as a perfect getaway from the concrete life, Bekal enjoys a pleasant climate while wearing a greener shade throughout the year. If you are yearning for silent, yet joyous holiday experience in Kerala, Bekal is the ideal hideout for you!

You may also like: Historical Places to Visit in Kerala

October to March

Bekal Fort, Pallikere Beach, Bekal Fort Beach, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Kappil Beach, Hosdurg Beach, Nileswaram Cultural Centre, Nityanandarshan Caves, TulurVanam, Bekal Hole Aqua Park, Mallikarjuna Temple, Malik Dinar Mosque Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (50km)

Kasaragod Railway Station (12km), Kanhangad Railway Station (14km)

Summer (March - June), Winter (December - February), Monsoon (June - September)

13 Guruvayur:

Home to the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple – fourth largest Hindu temple in India, Guruvayur has many legends. One of them states that this temple town was chosen by Lord Krishna to ensconce His Dwarka temple. On the wish of the Lord, Vayu Deva along with Brhaspati reinstated Lord Krishna’s statue in the sacred Guruvayur Temple . Today, a large number of devotees visit this holy temple on a daily basis.

The venue ground for festivals like Guruvayur Ekadasi and ChembaiSangeetholsavam, Guruvayur is also known for its magnificent charm and appeal. A sought-after destination among the seclusion lovers, it is still resonates the untouched beauty of God’s Own Country.

You may also like:  List of Pilgrimage Sites in Kerala

Guruvayur Temple, Guruvayur Elephant Camp, MammiyurMahadevan Temple, Palayur Church, Parthasarathy Temple, Chamundeshwary Temple, Devaswom Museum, Institute of Mural Paintings

Calicut International Airport (77km)

Guruvayur Junction

A gem in the lap of the mighty Western Ghats, Idukki boasts of being one of the evergreen and pristine districts in Kerala. Canopied by lush vegetation, this part of ‘India’s Backwater Capital’ has a unique charm and attracts visitors from almost all the corners of the globe.

Home to numerous natural marvels, lofty peaks like Anamudi and others, captivating sanctuaries, and spice gardens, this surreal part of Kerala is a must for every nature lovers. To note here, many of the popular Kerala tourist destinations like Munnar, Vagamon, Ramakkalmedu, Marayur, and Thekkady are located within this district.

You may also like: Popular Kerala Tourist Destination & Backwater Destination in Kerala

Periyar National Park, Periyar Lake, Idukki Arch Dam, Munnar, Vagamon, Thekkady, Nandukani, Painavu, Gavi, Murikkady, Kulamavu Dam, Anakkara, Hill View Park, Thommankuthu Falls, Keezharkuthu Falls, Mangala Devi Temple

Cochin International Airport (98km)

Theni Junction (83km)

Also known as ‘The Crown of Kerala’, Kannur is a true treat to the visitors’ eyes! Bordered by the fascinating beauty of the Western Ghats, adorned with the alluring strokes of the Arabian Sea, and decked with the bucolic charm of an evergreen outlook, this beach town in the Malabar Coast is among the most beautiful places to visit in Kerala.

Whether you are a nature lover, beach goer, history buff, culture fan, thrill seeker, or a casual backpacker, you would surely fall in love with the untouched beauty of Kannur. Also, not to forget here, this city is the home to Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach , the only drive-in beach in India.

You may also like: Visit to Muzhappilangad Beach in Kerala

October (Early Winter) to March (Early Summer)

Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, Payyambalam Beach, Meenkunnu Beach, Thottada Beach, Baby Beach, Mopila Bay, Dharmadam Island, Parassinikkadavu, Arakkal Museum, Sundareswara Temple, Fort St. Angelo, Pallikunnu, Holy Trinity Cathedral

Calicut International Airport (84km)

Kannur Railway Station

Summer (March - May), Winter (October - February), Monsoon (June - August)

16 Kasargod:

A quaint town that showcases a diverse of biodiversity, a prismatic destination is dotted with an array of tourist attractions , and a home away from home for the visitors, Kasaragod is a swaying beauty in Kerala’s tourism map. Steeped with glorious past, this balmy town also serves a home to a range of loft peaks, stunning beaches, historic marvels, natural treasure, and much more.

While on a trip God’s Own Country and searching for places to visit in Kerala, you must plan a trip to Kasaragod. Whether on a honeymoon trip, nature tour, backpacking quest, or any other, this scenic town will keep you amazed with its kaleidoscopic and admirable beauty!

You may also like:  Places for Honeymooners in Kerala  & Fort Bekal

September to January

Chandragiri Fort, Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary, Malom Wildlife Sanctuary, Kammadam Sacred Grove Wildlife Sanctuary, Ananthapura Lake Temple, Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Ranipuram, Malik Deenar Mosque, Madhur, Cheruvathur, Rock Point, Kareem's Forest Park, Manjeshwar, Trikkanad and PandayanKallu, Nileshwar, Kottancheri Hills, Anandashram and Nityanandashram, Kumbala, Bela Church, Maipady Palace

Mangalore Airport (45km)

Kasaragod Junction

Summer (March - May), Winter (December - February), Monsoon (June - November)

17 Kavvayi Backwaters:

While searching for places to visit in Kerala , you may find a number of backwater destination. However, if you are yearning the most surreal or enchanting backwater experience, Kavvayi Backwaters is the one for you! Flowing with all its beauty and grace Payyanur in the Kannur district of Kerala, this patch of backwater has a unique appeal that can infect the visitors within just a wink!

Fringed with lush greeneries, Kavvayi Backwaters serves as an ideal honeymoon and family vacation destination in the entire of Kerala. Visit this pictorial abode anytime of the year, and its heart-warming beauty and charm will surely hold you captive!

You may also like:  List of Backwater Destinations in Kerala

Valiyaparamba Island, Payyannur Island, Kavvayi Island, Boating

Calicut International Airport (154km)

Payyannur Junction (3km)

18 Kizhunna Beach:

One of the most promising, yet offbeat beaches in Kerala, the Kizhunna Beach is located in the coastal town Kannur in God’s Own Country. Often called the ‘KizhunnaEzhara Beach’ due to its proximity with the Ezhara Beach, this picturesque retreat can be make any beach goer crave for more!

Adding more to its untouched beauty, the Kizhunna Beach in Kerala enjoys a favourable climate almost throughout the year. Owing to this, it receives an ample of beach lovers from across the globe.

You may also like: Beaches in Kerala

December to February (Winter)

Kannur, Ezhara Beach, Swimming, Sun Basking, Village Tours

Calicut International Airport (108km)

Kannur Railway Station (10km)

19 Kuttanad:

Fondly called as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala’, Kuttanad is truly a poetry in motion! Gracious, tranquil, evergreen, and still untouched by the outer world, this magnificent tourist destination in God’s Own Country is fringed with captivating groves of coconut trees, and is interconnected with a bucolic network of canal. This makes Kuttanad a place to behold among the visitors.

While the intrinsic network of canals add more to the beauty and charm of Kuttanad, its evergreen swaying paddy fields make it truly irresistible for the visitors. Also, the rustic and traditional way of living that still persists in this piece of heaven will surely make you feel and live the true colours of Kerala.

You may also like: Visit to Magnificent Tourist Destination in Kerala

August to March

Champakulam, Chengannur, Pamba River, Meenachil River, Achankovil River, Manimala River, Punnamada Lake, Backwaters, Paddy Fields, Traditional Water Turbines,

Cochin International Airport (85km)

Alleppey Railway Station (22km) and Changanacherry Railway Station (28km)

Summer (April - June), Winter (October - Mid March), Monsoon (July - September)

20 Malampuzha:

India’s ‘Spice Capital’ is all about lush greeneries and heart-warming ambience, hence the name “God’s Own Country’! And while in Malampuzha, located in the Palakkad district, you can feel the true essence of Kerala and its bountiful nature.

Mostly covered by evergreen vegetation, this part of the state is a picture-perfect display of how we should co-exist with Mother Nature. Malampuzha’s undulating beauty and tranquillity makes it a must to visit place in the entire region of Southern India.

You may also like: Visit Popular Places in Kerala

August (Monsoon End) to April (Early Summer)

Malampuzha Dam, Malampuzha Garden, Kava, Palakkad Fort, Dhoni Hills and Waterfalls, Thread Garden, Rock Garden, Snake Park, UdanKhatola, Fantasy Park,

Coimbatore International Airport (Tamil Nadu) (55km)

Palakkad Junction (8km)

Summer (April - May), Winter (September - March), Monsoon (June - August)

21 Malappuram:

Once a military headquarter, Malappuram or the ‘City of Hills’ or ‘Soccer City of Kerala’ could be one of the best things happening to you! All you need to do is, just plan a visit to this gorgeous hilltop city, and you would surely get pleasantly lost within its beguiling ambience.

Situated in the southern corner of Kerala, this scenic city wears a misty outlook for most of the year, and draws a large number of tourists from across the country. Be it natural appeal, historic significance, tourist activities, places of attractions , or even to laze around, you will find ample of elements to keep yourself soaked with fun-frolic while in Malappuram.

You may also like: Most Beautiful Hill Stations in Kerala

July (Early Monsoon) to March (Winter End)

Keralamkundu Waterfalls, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, Koottayi Beach, Padinharekara Beach, BiyyamKayal, Up & Down Hill, Kottakkunnu, Panakkad, Shanthitheeram, Arimbra Hills, Teak Museum, Anakkayam, Melmuri, Malappuram Juma Masjid, Thiruppuranthaka Temple, Mannoor Shiva Temple,

Calicut International Airport (38km)

Angadipuram Railway Station (17km)

Believe it or not, but Goa alone cannot be called the paradise for beach lovers and other tourists alike! And if there is any other place in India that can be equally compared with Goa, it has to be Kerala. Well, if you want to know why, you must plan a visit to the Marari Beach in the Alleppey district of Kerala!

One of the most captivating beaches in the entire country, Marari Beach will surely make you forget any other beaches in India. Rated among the top five ‘Hammock Beaches’ by National Geographic, this virgin beach proves to be a wonderful place to laze around, enjoy sun basking, indulge in beach activities, and lot more!

You may also like: Visit to Beaches in Kerala

September (Monsoon End) to May (Summer End)

Beach Activities, Thumpolly Beach, Alappuzha Beach, Cherthala, The Dutch Palace, Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Andres Church, Mararikulam Shiva Temple, Aroor, Arthunkal, Poochakkal

Cochin International Airport (90km)

Mararikulam Railway Station (3km)

Summer (March - May), Winter (November - February), Monsoon (June - October)

23 Munroe Island:

A cluster of islands straight out of fairy tales, Munroe Island comprises of a collective group of 8 different islets. Interconnected with each other with a turquoise network of canals, this group of islands is around 27km form the heart of Kollam , and is a much-sought-after destination among the visitors.

Edged with evergreen coconut groves, these islands can be called the epitome of serenity and tranquillity. Whether on a family vacation, honeymoon trip, backpacking trails, or casually holidaying, you can bump on the Munroe Island anytime or during any part of the year.

You may also like: Places for honeymooners in Kerala

October to May

Island Hoping, Boating, Kallada River, Ashtamudi Lake, Wonderla Amusement Park, Kerala Kathakali Centre, Jew Town, Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, Santa Cruz Basilica

Trivandrum International Airport (97km)

Kollam Railway Station (25km)

Summer (March - May), Winter (November- February), Monsoon (June - September)

24 Nelliampathy:

If Kerala is called the ‘God’s Own Country’, Nelliampathy (or Nelliampathi) is fondly called the ‘God’s Own Village’! Located around 60km from Palakkad, this quaint hamlet is one of the least explored and equally stunning hill stations in Kerala .

With a captivating range of hills that soar up to an astounding height of 467-1,572m, Nelliampathy serves as an ideal getaway to enjoy and revel in the alluring charm of India’s Backwater Capital. With lofty peaks, rugged trails, and around 10-hair pin bends, this tiny, yet enthralling hill station also serves as a hotspot among the thrill and fun seekers.

You may also like: List of Backwater Destination in Kerala

October (Pre-Winter) to March (Early Summer)

Trekking, Boating, Nelliyampathy Hills, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Nenmara, Palagapandi Estate, Seetharkundu Viewpoint, Padagiri, Raja's Cliff, Pothundi Reservoir, Malampuzha Gardens, Nelliyampathy Gardens

Palakkad Railway Station

25 Palakkad:

Palakkad or the ‘Gateway to Kerala’ is truly a paradise for the nature lovers and admirers. Situated at the foothills of the mighty Western Ghats, this scenic land is jotted with lush and evergreen vegetation all throughout, and is adored as the ‘Granary of Kerala’.

Steeped with a glorious past, decked with diverse range of traditions, cultures, art & music, and the indigenous Malabar style of living, Palakkad surely qualifies for a natural treasure in Kerala’s tourism map. Also, the tropical climate that prevails in this gorgeous city, makes it a not-to-be missed place to visit in Kerala.

You may also like: Popular Tourist Destination in Kerala

July (Mid-Monsoon) to March (Winter End)

Palakkad Fort, Silent Valley National Park, Parambikulam Wild Life Sanctuary, Mayiladumpara Peacock Sanctuary, Malampuzha Dam and Gardens, Attappadi, Kava View Point, Rock Garden, Siruvani Reservoir, Kanjirapuzha Reservoir, Dhoni Forest (Trekking), Kalpathy Heritage Village and Temple Complex, Nelliyampathy Hills, Pothundi Dam and Reservoir, Mangalam Dam, Tipu's Fort, ThiruvalathurRanduMoorthy Temple, Jain Temple, Vadakkanthara Temple, Manapullikaavu, KalpathyAgraharam and Vishwanathaswamy Temple, KumarapuramTemple, EmoorBhagavathyTemple, Thiruvalathoor Shiva Temple,

Peelamedu Airport (Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) (43km), Kochi International Airport (96km)

Palakkad Junction (Broad Gauge Line), Palakkad Town Railway Station (Narrow Gauge Line)

Summer (February - May), Winter (November - March), Monsoon (June - October)

26 Ponmudi:

If you still think that Kerala is all about backwaters, mighty ocean, playful beaches, spice gardens, or evergreen coconut groves, you must visit the stunning hill station called Ponmudi ! Around 55km away from the state capital, this promising hill station will make you rethink and create a whole new perception God’s Own Country!

Enchanted by the spellbinding beauty of the Western Ghats, a drive or ride to Ponmudi has its own fun and excitement. While for the nature lovers, this part of the journey opens an unknown window to Kerala’s mesmerising beauty, adrenaline seekers love to have a tryst with the thrills associated.

You may also like:  Most Beautiful Hill Stations in Kerala – A Treat for the Summer!

November (Post Monsoon) to May (Summer End)

Trivandrum International Airport (67km)

Trivandrum Central Railway Station (61km)

Summer (March - May), Winter (December - March), Monsoon (June - September)

While in the Poovar Beach, you can witness one of the rarest phenomenon in the world. It is in this scenic beach, where the sea meets a river and a lake. Well, this is not it! Poovar estuary is also serves as the confluence ground of the beach and land!

A quintessential display of exotic flora and fauna, this beach portrays much of traditional ways of coastal living where fishing plays an important part of daily life. Situated around 12km from Kovalam , Poovar Beach has gained immense popularity as a popular picnic spots among the beach lovers and other types of visitors.

You may also like: Most Scenic Beaches in Kerala

August (Mid-Monsoon) to March (Early Summer)

Poovar Beach, Thiruparappu Falls, Fishing Village, Kalipoika, Kozhipara, Thikkoti Light House

Trivandrum International Airport (38km)

28 Thiruvananthapuram:

The capital city of God’s Own Country, Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum , or the ‘Evergreen City of India’ is also the largest city in the state. Located at the south-western edge of Kerala, this city is the perfect example of how rural life gets mixed with the contemporary way of living.

Dotted with numerous tourist spots, places of historical importance, scenic beaches, and much more, Trivandrum is a true treasure trove among visitors from all the walks of life. Rated as one of the finest Indian cities to live in, Thiruvananthapuram can also be called the ‘Economic Capital’ of Kerala.

You may also like:  Historical Places to Visit in Kerala & Most Scenic Beaches in Kerala

Ponmudi, Kovalam, Shanghumugham Beach, Aruvi Waterfalls, Akkulam Tourist Village, Veli Tourist Village, Aruvikkara Dam, Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary, Peppara Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary, Poovar, Kowdiar Palace, Agasthyakoodam, Koyikkal Palace, Kanakakunnu Palace, Anchuthengu Fort, Napier Museum, Zoological Gardens, Vizhinjam, Thiruvallam, ParipallyGajamela, AnanthaPadmanabha Temple, AttukalBhagavathi Temple

Aaranmula Boat Race, Trekking, Meenmutty Falls, Golden Valley, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Mankkayam Falls, Kallar, Koyikkal Palace, Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, Sri Krishna Swami Temple

Trivandrum International Airport

Trivandrum Central Railway Station

Summer (March - June), Winter (October - February), Monsoon (July - September)

29 Thrissur:

If you are a cultural fan or enthusiastic about the rich traditions of Kerala, Thrissur should be ranked as #1 in your travelogue! Also called ‘Trichur’, this city was once the capital of Kingdom of Cochin, and is fondly called the ‘Cultural Capital of Kerala’.

Being edged with a number of scared temples and other religious spots, Thrissur serves as an important pilgrimage among the Hindu devotees. Yes, this city is the venue ground of the famous ‘Temple Festival’ or the ‘Thrissur Pooram’ that is known and participated by devotees from across the globe.

Visit the city during this festival, and you will find the entire Trichur uniting and celebrating the festival with high vigour and equal gusto!

You may also like: List of Pilgrimage Sites in Kerala

Year-round Destination / April to May (Thrissur Pooram is celebrated)

Chavakkad Beach, Nattika Beach, Vatanappally Beach, Athirapally Waterfalls, Guruvayoor, Peechi Dam, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Thrisuur Zoo, Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, Chimmony Dam, Thrissur Pooram, Archaeological Museum, PunnathurKotta, Sri Maheswara Temple, Lourdes Cathedral, Marth Mariam Church, Vaddakunathan Temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple, Dolours Basilica, ParamekkavuBhagavathy Temple, Arattupuzha Temple

Kochi International Airport (67km)

Thrissur Railway Station

30 Varkala:

Flaunting its gracious beauty and charm while having a tryst with the Arabian Sea, Varkala is surely one of the most gorgeous and best places to visit in Kerala! A kaleidoscopic coastal town in Trivandrum, this is in fact the only place in God’s Own Country where cliffs are found alongside the sea-line.

While being a hotspot among the beach lovers, Varkala is also known for the ancient Janardana Swami Temple that dates back to 2,000 years. If you are planning for a Kerala trip, make sure you visit this quaint town; it will keep you amazed all through with its impeccable beauty, devout ambience, and playful beach!

You may also like: List of Beaches in Kerala

Paragliding, Varkala Beach, Thiruvambadi Beach, Edava Beach, Kappil Beach, Papanasam Beach, 590 Cliff, Anjengo Fort, Sivagiri Mutt, Janardhanaswamy Temple, Ponnumthuruthu Island, Varkala Tunnel, Vishnu Temple, Varkala Aquarium, KaduvayilJuma Masjid, Varkala Lighthouse,

Trivandrum International Airport (36km)

VarkalaSivagiri Railway Station

Summer (April - June), Winter (October - March), Monsoon

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16 Top Places to Visit in Kerala

Kerala , in south India, is often referred to as "God's Own Country" for its unspoiled tropical beauty. This coastal state has a destination for everyone— whether it's the beach, mountains, adventure, wildlife, heritage or culture you're interested in. The pace of life is slow, making it the perfect place for a leisurely vacation.

Known as the "Gateway to Kerala", Kochi is an enchanting city that's had an eclectic influence. Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese have all left their mark there. The architecture and historical sites in Fort Kochi attract most of the visitors to the area. If you have children, consider taking them to Wonderla Amusement Park in Kochi as well. There's also many hotels and homestays for all budgets.

If you're interested in history, extend your time in Kochi to visit Muziris, situated about an hour to the north of the city. This multicultural district used to be the most important trading port in Kerala, where business flourished for more than 1,000 years before it was severely damaged by a flood. It's being developed by the Kerala government as a heritage project. Muziris extends to Kodungallur (where the astonishing and rather gory Kodungallur Bhagavathy temple festival takes place in late March or early April each year) and Paravoor. It's full of old churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples. India's first mosque, Cheraman Juma Masjid, was built there in 629 AD. Cochin Magic offers a full-day private Muziris Heritage Tour.

Kerala Backwaters

One of the most tranquil and relaxing things you can do in Kerala is to take a trip in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala canals, known as the backwaters . Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer (buy your own and bring it on the boat) make the experience even more enjoyable. You can even spend the night out in the middle of a lake. Stay a few nights at a homestay or resort along the backwaters too. Bliss! For the ultimate experience, don't miss seeing a sunset from Kakkathuruthu Island on Vembanad Lake. Most Backwaters trips start out from Alleppey.

Marari Beach

If you're after an easily accessible and peaceful beach break in Kerala, picturesque Marari is just 30 minutes north of Alleppey. This placid fishing village has a long stretch of undeveloped beach and a diverse range of accommodations, from plush resorts to simple homestays. Some front the beach.

Periyar National Park

Kerala's Periyar National Park, in the Thekkady district, is one of the most popular national parks in southern India. Unlike most other national parks in India, it stays open all year round, even during the monsoon season. Periyar is known for its wild elephants, and 30-minute elephant rides through the jungle are offered. Safaris are carried out by boat, with the lake being particularly captivating at sunset. Visitors can also take part in an excellent variety of eco-tourism activities there.

If you like tea, a visit to Munnar is a must! The surrounding region is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations. See tea being picked and processed, and try fresh tea straight from the gardens. There's even a tea museum. The area is blessed with the natural beauty of winding lanes, misty hills, and forests full of exotic plants and wildlife. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in south India , explore Eravikulam National Park, or go rock climbing and paragliding. Munnar offers a diverse range of accommodations, surrounded by nature.

The setting of Varkala beach is striking enough to take your breath away, with a long winding stretch of cliff and views that extend over the Arabian Sea. A paved footpath runs along the length of the cliff, bordered by coconut palms, quaint shops, beach shacks, hotels, and guesthouses. Nestled at the bottom of the cliff is a long stretch of sparkling beach, reached by steps leading down from the cliff top. It's not surprising that Varkala is one of India's best beaches .

Wayanad is a bright green mountainous region that stretches along the Western Ghats. It has a great deal of scenic appeal. Abundant coconut palms, thick forests, paddy fields, and lofty peaks form the landscape. Due to the nature of its terrain, the area also has much to offer adventure enthusiasts. Popular attractions include trekking to Chembra Peak and Meenmutty Falls, exploring old Jain temples, climbing to Edakkal Caves, and wildlife spotting at Muthanga and Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuaries. Another highlight of Wayanad is the many delightful homestays in the area. Glenora is one of them.

One of the best places to get off the beaten track in India, the Kannur district of northern Kerala offers an ideal blend of secluded beaches and culture in the form of mysterious masked spirit-possession theyyam rituals (October until May) and hand loom weaving. Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach is also located in Kannur. You can drive all the way along its vast stretch of sand! Kick back and relax at one of the inexpensive beach house accommodations, and enjoy the serenity.

Kerala's most happening beach, Kovalam, is conveniently located about 40 minutes southeast of capital city Trivandrum and presided over by a distinctive lighthouse. It was catapulted onto the tourist map in the early 1970s when masses of hippies converged on it, as they followed the Hippie Trail to Ceylon (now called Sri Lanka). Kovalam definitely won't appeal to everyone because its main beach is bordered by a densely packed row of hotels and does get busy, although there are quieter pockets in places.

Poovar Island

Did you know Kerala has over-water bungalows? You'll find them at Poovar Island Resort, about 30-minutes further down the coast from Kovalam. Granted, they're not as spectacular as some of those in the Maldives, but they're still recommended. Poovar Island is not far from the Tamil Nadu border and is quite an amazing natural wonder. It lies at the point where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. In between is an elongated sand bar. 

The main attraction for Hindus who visit Trivandrum is the 16th-century Padmanabhaswamy temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and built by rulers of the kingdom of Travancore. A great deal of wealth has been hidden in the temple, making it the richest temple in the world. Some of the treasures were recently unearthed but the largest vault remains unopened. Unfortunately, if you're not Hindu, you won't be allowed to go inside the temple unless you declare you believe in Hinduism. Trivandrum also has some interesting museums and galleries, housed in classical heritage buildings. These include the Napier Museum , Natural History Museum and Sri Chitra Art Gallery in the museum complex, and Kuthiramalika Palace Museum outside the Padmanabhaswamy temple.

Jatayupara Earth's Center

Jatayupara Earth Center

Jatayupara Earth's Center is an ambitious new attraction in Kerala. It opened in late 2016, in Chadayamangalam village in Kerala's Kollam district, about an hour north of Trivandrum. The park is spread over an astonishing 65 acres and is themed on the Hindu epic The Ramayan. It's dominated by a 200-foot-long landmark sculpture of Jatayu, the mythical vulture that's believed to have been killed on the rocky hilltop while trying to rescue Sita from Ravan. Notably, the sculpture is considered to be the largest of its kind in the world. The park has more than 20 adventure activities, a 6D theater that shows the battle between Jatayu and Ravan, a virtual reality museum, an Ayurvedic healing cave, and cable car (aerial tramway) to transport visitors up.

Sargaalaya Crafts Village

An initiative of the Kerala state government, Sargaalaya won a National Tourism Award for Best Rural Tourism Project in 2016. This tourist village was set up at the pretty village of Iringal, in Kerala's Kozhikode district, to provide a platform for talented artisans to display their craftsmanship. Visitors can see the artisans in action and buy their wares. The Sargaalaya Iringal International Crafts Festival takes place there every year from the third week of December to first week of January. It's south India's biggest handcraft fair, with about 400 artisans from all over the world attending.

The River Nila

If you're someone who likes to go completely off the tourist trail, you'll enjoy exploring the culture along the River Nila (also known as Bharathappuzha). This river is the longest in Kerala, and its riverbank home to many communities that are involved in traditional activities such as pottery, weaving, puppetry, folk art and dance, music, and martial arts. They all share a deep bond with the river. The Blue Yonder, an award-winning responsible travel company, conducts guided trips and is working diligently to keep these traditions alive. Stay in a cottage at the Riverside Retreat, centrally situated between Kochi and Calicut.

Rural Kerala

Visiting a village, where it feels like time has stood still, is an excellent way to learn more about the rural way of life in Kerala. You'll get to observe all kinds of local industry and skills. The focus on village tourism has grown in recent years, and a number of destinations have been developed across the state. Kumbalanghi Village is a convenient option on the outskirts of Kochi. Kerala Tourism also arranges trips to villages around Kovalam, Kumarakom, Wayanad, Thekkady, and Bekal.

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10 Incredible Places to visit in Kerala for a One-Day Trip

We usually talk about vacations or a weekend, at least when it comes to traveling. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a one-day trip from Kerala, Delhi, Bangalore, or any other destination for that matter?

After weeks and months of tedious work schedules, running between office and home, working for extended hours, and whatnot- everyone likes even the thought of a day off. Right? It takes you away from your regular schedule and rejuvenates your body and mind. ages

The best part is that neither would it hurt your pocket nor pose problems at your workplace.

So, here are the best places to visit in Kerala for a single-day trip that can help you shed your stress and workload for a day.

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So, here are the  best places to visit in Kerala for a single-day trip  that can help you shed your stress and workload for a day.

Top 10 incredible places to visit in Kerala for a one day trip

• Best time to visit Alleppey: Between September and February

Honestly! When it comes to taking a one-day trip in Kerala, most people think of a place that would take them away from the hustle-bustle of the city. One place that ticks all the checklist boxes is Alleppey.

Often referred to as “India’s Venice,” Alleppey is one of the finest tourist destinations in Kerala and draws tourists throughout the year. For people looking for a peaceful destination on the west coast of Kerala, this can be an ideal pick for you.

You can come here in the morning, relax and rejuvenate in the pleasing environment of the city, and head back to your place by evening. A perfect one-day trip in Kerala, isn’t it?

Fall in Love with Kerala: Book Your Romantic Kerala Honeymoon Package Today!

[ Choose our Well Crafted Kerala Tour Packages ]

Also Read: Top 10 Backwater Destinations in Kerala that You Can’t Miss

• Best time to visit Wayanad : Throughout the Year

Some people love to rest and enjoy the peacefulness of nature, and some love to spend their “day off” doing something thrilling like trekking a mountain or rock climbing. If you look through the list of tourist places in Kerala offering some adventure activities, Wayanad would be placed somewhere on the top.

A fantastic destination for adventure-loving people planning on a one-day trip to Kerala. From exploring caves to clicking pictures in front of a beautiful waterfall, Wayanad has a lot of things to offer.

This will give you a recreational break and a day to enjoy what you love the most, “Adventure.” But that doesn’t mean people who admire nature cannot visit here for their break. They, too, can share the space with the adventure junky in this breathtakingly beautiful travel destination in Kerala .

• Best Time to Visit Kumarakom: Between November and February

Considering Kumarakom as your next destination won’t be a wrong choice because one of the most important offerings of this beautiful tourist destination of Kerala is serene spots. A one-day trip you would be taking is more or less like a day where you keep aside all your stressful things and enjoy the moments, isn’t it?

To your surprise, there is an ample number of places where you can do this. Another thing about Kumarakom is that one can enjoy a range of delicious meals in this little town. Excited? Pick any of the Kerala one-day tour packages and stay away from the hassle of iterating things to do and places to visit in Kumarakom.

Best Time to Visit Thrissur: Between November and February

Thrissur is undoubtedly one of the finest places to visit in Kerala for a single-day trip owing to its beautiful location. The town is beautifully tucked away in the hillock and has a lot of mesmerizing places for city dwellers to visit. Not only the places to visit here are beautiful but a bit less chaotic than the cities as well.

There are several religious sites throughout the town, and people usually come here to seek the Lord’s blessing. Then be it the ancient and beautifully designed church or the impressive historic temples. Thrissur can be your ideal destination in Kerala for a rejuvenating holiday.

15 Offbeat Places to Visit in Kerala that you just can’t ignore

Best Time to Visit Munnar: Between October and March

Although visiting the prime attractions of Munnar takes more than one day, this beautiful hill station serves the purpose of taking a holiday. You would find a lot of tourists visiting here throughout the year, but in comparison to the other hill stations around, Munnar is a bit less crowded. One of the ideal hill stations to visit in Kerala – Munnar, has an entirely different charm and offers several unique places to visit and things to do.

While planning a single-day trip in Kerala, Munnar can be your ideal choice for more than one good reason. There are a sufficient number of places for every kind of traveler, so fret not, traveling to this town won’t be a bummer.

[ Plan Your Vacations with Munnar Tour Packages ]

• Best Time to Visit Kalpetta: Between October and March

A lot of people looking for a single-day trip in Kerala prefer visiting a small town that is less chaotic and more serene. This keeps them away from the stressful chaos and unnecessary noise and lets them loosen up in quieter and more peaceful places.

If this is how you wish to spend your day, then Kalpetta can be the ideal destination for you in Kerala. Though the best time to visit Kerala here is during the winter, people still flock to the town throughout the year. And this is because of its fantastic yearlong weather.

Helpful Links:

• Kerala Heritage Tour
• Pookode Lake Wayanad
• Top Things to do in Wayanad
• Best Time to Visit Kannur: Between July to March

Kannur is a small yet beautiful town on the Malabar coast of Kerala. It is one of those places with several beautiful attractions and many things to do. Even though it is a small beach town in Kerala, it still is one of the most incredible places in Kerala.

You get to explore several ancient ruins, enjoy the beautiful and clean beaches, and witness monuments speaking the stories of the bygone colonial era. So if you are wondering if it will be a good choice for your solo day trip in Kerala, then this will be a good one.

[ Make a Trip to Kerala with Best Time to Visit ]

• Best Time to Visit Thekkady: Between November and March

Are you a wildlife enthusiast living somewhere in Kerala and looking for an enchanting destination for your single-day trip? Look no further because Thekkady is one of the best destinations in Kerala for wildlife lovers. Thekkady is famous for the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the largest reserve in India.

Not only do you get to spend some time with these wild cats during your Periyar safari, but you also get to witness the diversity in flora and fauna. One of the best things about this small mesmerizing town is that it never gets old on you. (this means however many times you visit here, you won’t get bored of it.)

Also Read: A Comprehensive Travel Guide of Periyar National Park

• Best Time to Visit Kottayam: Between September to February

Kottayam is one of those “comparatively offbeat” destinations in Kerala that can take you back in time. In addition to being one of the most surreal destinations in Kerala- Kottayam holds a lot of significance for the entire state in terms of culture. One of the achievements of Kottayam is the 100% literacy rate from which it derived its nickname ‘Akshara Nagari.’

The city of Letters is a profound place for a lot of things and what has defined it better is the picturesque landscapes and the natural beauty of the town. The peaceful environment and mild weather with all the views make it a wonderful place to visit in Kerala for a one-day trip.

Also Read: 12 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala

• Best Time to Visit Kochi: Between September and March

One of the best destinations in Kerala during winter, Kochi might not be more of a quiet place, but you surely can spend some time amidst nature. Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is also an excellent destination for people who want a break. It is a serene place and one of the finest beach destinations in Kerala.

The history of this city and its legacy traces back to the first colonization era. Kochi has beaches, museums, temples, monuments, and many other unique places that delight every traveler. Make sure you keep a camera or your mobile charged for the day.

Are you now prepared to roll in Kerala’s beauty? Then, it’s time if all you’ve been waiting for is a trip to Kerala . These top Kerala tourist attractions will surely come in handy wherever you go! All you need to do is book the package from Indian Holiday, and you will get master surprises in the packages. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us !

Suggested Read:

• Top 10 Honeymoon Places in Kerala
• Top 10 Backwater Destinations in Kerala that You Can’t-Miss
• 10 Pristine Beaches in Kerala that you must include in your Kerala Trip
• Goa Vs Kerala: Where To Go For Next Holiday?

Shashank Yadav

A bachelor's in technology passed out student, who decided to follow his heart, has looked forward to see his future as a traveler and a travel writer. This was his passion that ignited the spark of travelling to different places and share his experience with others. It's his writing and pictures that do all the talking now.

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For many travelers, Kerala is South India's most serenely beautiful state. This slender coastal strip is defined by its layered landscape: almost 373 miles (600km) of glorious Arabian Sea coast and beaches; a languid network of glistening backwaters; and the spice- and tea-covered hills of the Western Ghats, dotted with fiercely protected wildlife reserves and cool hill stations such as Munnar. Just setting foot on this swathe of soul-soothing, palm-shaded green will slow your subcontinental stride to a blissed-out amble. Kerala is a world away from the hectic action of the rest of India, its long, fascinating backstory illuminated by historically evocative cities like Kochi (Cochin) and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Northern Kerala

Wayanad's ethereal 345-sq-km sanctuary is accessible only by two-hour jeep safari (₹680), on which you might spot langurs, chital deer, sambar, peacocks,…

Periyar Tiger Reserve

Bison, sambar, wild boar, langur, around 2000 elephants and 35 to 40 tigers wander the lushly green hills of South India’s most popular wildlife reserve,…

Pardesi Synagogue

Kochi (Cochin)

Originally built in 1568, Mattancherry's synagogue was partially destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662, and rebuilt two years later when the Dutch took…

Mattancherry Palace

Mattancherry Palace was a generous gift presented to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma (1537–65), as a gesture of goodwill by the Portuguese in 1555…

Museum of History & Heritage

Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)

Occupying a handsome 120-year-old heritage building within the Kerala Tourism complex, this intelligently presented museum traces Kerala's history and…

Napier Museum

Housed in an 1880 wooden building designed by Robert Chisholm (a British architect whose Fair Isle–style version of the Keralite vernacular shows his…

Matha Amrithanandamayi Mission

The incongruously salmon-pink Matha Amrithanandamayi Mission, 30km northwest of Kollam, is the famous ashram of one of India’s few female gurus,…

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

This reserve on the 5-hectare site of a former rubber plantation on Vembanad Lake is the haunt of a variety of domestic and migratory birds. October to…

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• Tourist Places Within 100 Kms

35 Places to Visit near Kochi (Cochin) within 100 kms (2024)

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1. Alleppey

Popularly known as the 'Venice of the East, Alappuzha or Alleppey is one of the best places to visit near Kochi , and among the must-include places in Kerala tour packages . It is about 63 km from Kochi, and 152 km from Trivandrum. Along with Kumarakom, Alappuzha is among the most famous destination of Backwaters in Kerala . A houseboat cruise in these backwaters is a delightful experience. The never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees, shimmering water, and long canals around Alappuzha make it a delightful destination. Alappuzha Beach, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Arthunkal Church, Mannarasala Temple, Chettikulangara Devi Temple, Mullakkal Temple, Champakulam, Kuttanad, and Krishnapuram Palace are some of the famous tourist places in Alleppey . Alappuzha is also known for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race held on the Punnamada Lake on the second Saturday of August every year. This is the most popular of the boat races in India, and among the must-experience things to do as part of Alleppey tour .

Distance from Kochi: 63 Kms

2. Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as the Queen of Vembanad, Kumarakom is the most famous places to visit near Trivandrum for Kerala backwaters, and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages . It is about 56 km from Kochi, 36 km from Alleppey, and 164 km from Trivandrum. Kumarakom is a special tourism zone in Kerala due to the special ecology of the place. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumaramangalam Temple, Vaikom, Pathiramanal Island, Aranmula, and Erumeli are the popular tourist places in Kumarakom . The major sightseeing option at Kumarakom is a boat cruise in the backwaters of Vembanad and is an amazing experience for every traveler to Kumarakom. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuar is a noted bird sanctuary where one can see many species of migratory birds as part of Kumarakom packages . It is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. It is also famous for Ayurvedic massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing, and swimming. Kumarakom is the venue for Sree Narayana Jayanthi Boat Race held in September during Onam festival.

Distance from Kochi: 56 Kms

3. Kottayam

Kottayam is a city located in central Kerala and is also the administrative capital of Kottayam district. It is one of the well known Kerala tourist places . About 63 km from Kochi and 155 km from Trivandrum, it is among the most prominent places to visit near Kochi . Bounded by the Western Ghats on the east and the Vembanad Lake on the west, Kottayam is well known as a beautiful Kerala backwaters destination with stunning landscape and beauty. The city is an important trading center of spices and commercial crops, especially rubber. Kottayam holiday packages are a mix of scenic landscapes, backwaters, bird sanctuaries, temples, and churches. The Poonjar Palace, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Pallippurathu Kavu, Thiruverpu Temple, Mary Church (Cheriyapally), and Thazhathangady Juma Masjid are the popular tourist places in Kottayam . It is also a gateway to the famous Sabarimala Temple . Kumarakom, the most famous backwater destination of Kerala is situated very close to Kottayam (13 km).

Distance from Kochi: 67 Kms

4. Athirapally Waterfalls

Athirapally Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in India and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages . It is situated about 73 km from Kochi, 100 km from Munnar, and 269 km from Trivandrum. Formed over Chalakudy River, Athirapally is one of the scenic waterfalls in Kerala that drops down from a height of 80 feet through several parallel streams offering a great scenic beauty. In the monsoon season, the water gets strength and all the streams join together and appear like Niagara Falls. The Vazhachal Waterfalls, Charpa Falls, Anakkayam, Sholayar Dam, Valparai, and Malayattur Wildlife Sanctuary are the nearby places to visit during your Athirapally trip . It also offers adventure activities like river rafting, trekking, etc. It is one of the best waterfalls near Kochi . The forest that surrounds Athirapally Falls is also the natural habitat of different species like the great hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar grey hornbill, Indian grey hornbill, Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, and bison. The falls can be visited as part of Kochi tour packages .

Distance from Kochi: 70 Kms

5. Thrissur

Thrissur, also known as Trichur, is one of the famous places of pilgrimage in Kerala, and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages . Situated about 81 km from Kochi, and 279 km from Trivandrum, this is one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi & Coimbatore. Thrissur is also known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala because of its cultural, spiritual, and religious leanings throughout history. Vadakkumnathan temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple and Paramekkavu temple, and Guruvayur Temple, Our Lady of Lourdes Syro-Malabar Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral, Thrissur Zoo, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, and Kerala Kalamandalam are the most popular tourist places in Thrissur . Thrissur hosts the world-famous Thrissur Pooram , the most colorful and spectacular temple festival of Kerala. UNESCO has awarded Thrissur Pooram as the most spectacular festival event on the planet. It is one of the best experience things to do in Kerala as part of Thrissur packages . Thrissur is also the hometown of the great Hindu Saint, Adi Shankara.

Distance from Kochi: 81 Kms

Idukki is is one of the stunning places to visit near Kochi , and among the most prominent Kerala tourist places . It is situated about 47 km from Munnar, 105 km from Kochi, 239 km from Trivandrum, and 171 km from Madurai. Idukki is the second-largest district in Kerala state (Painavu as headquarters). The name Idukki is supposed to be derived from the Malayalam word Idukku which means a narrow gorge. Periyar which is one of the largest rivers of Kerala, flowing through the Idukki gorge formed between the two high massive rocks called Kuravan and Kurathi, which is the site of the gigantic Idukki Arch Dam, among the must-visit places as part of Idukki packages . Idukki can be visited along with Munnar tour packages . Idukki has a mix of diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation centers and mountain treks. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki Dam, Thommankuthu Waterfalls, Ramakalamedu, Kalvari Mount / Calvary Mount, Malankara Dam, and Ilaveezha Poonchira are some of the prominent tourist places in Idukki .

Distance from Kochi: 100 Kms

7. Guruvayur

Guruvayur is one of the revered places of pilgrimage in Kerala, and among the prominent places to visit near Kochi . It is about 27 km from Thrissur, 90 km from Kochi, and 309 km from Trivandrum. Guruvayur is one of the prominent Pilgrimage in India as it is home to the sacred Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. It is the fourth largest temple in India, and often referred to as the Dwaraka of the South. Mammiyoor Mahadeva Temple, Parthasarathy Temple, Thiru Venkatachalapathy Temple, Chamundeswari Temple, Chowalloor Shiva Temple, and Ariyannur Harikanyaka Temple, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary, Chettuva Backwaters, Chavakkad Beach, and St. Thomas Forane Church - Palayoor are other places to visit as part of Guruvayur packages . Beyond its spiritual allure, Guruvayur's lush greenery, coconut groves, and tranquil backwaters provide a picturesque setting for exploring Kerala's cultural treasures and indulging in authentic cuisine and Ayurvedic therapies. It can be visited along with Thrissur tour packages .

8. Vazhachal Waterfalls

At a distance of 7 km from Athirapally & 75 km from Kochi, Vazhachal Waterfall is a breathtakingly beautiful waterfall situated very close to Athirapally - Valparai road. It is one of the popular tourist places in Athirapally . Near the entrance of the Sholayar forest range, the waterfall is formed on Chalakkudy River at the lower stream of Athirapally Waterfalls . The surroundings of the waterfalls offer rich natural views. Unlike Athirapally Waterfalls, Vazhachal flows through an inclined slope of more than 300 feet to descend into a huge pool. It is very difficult and dangerous to step into the flow or to reach the bottom of the flow. This waterfall became famous for not just its view but the endemic species found in the surrounding dense forests. Researchers have found four endangered species of the Hornbill here, the only place they thrive in the entire Western Ghats. Ornithologists attach great significance to this location and bird watchers can come across many rare and vibrant species in these parts as part of Athirapally packages . Several private vehicles ply between Athirapally & Vazhachal falls. Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Distance from Kochi: 77 Kms

9. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

At a distance of 5 km from Kumarakom Bus Station, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a protected reserve situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, this is one of the best places of wildlife in Kerala , and among the must-visit places during your Kumarakom trip . Spread across 14 acres, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an amazing paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields, and coconut groves. It is one of the best sanctuaries near Kochi , the bird sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. In addition, visitors can get thrilled by the native kingfishers ablaze in psychedelic colours, experience a walk under rookeries of egrets and night herons or lone golden-backed woodpeckers and even delight in the acrobatics of the paradise fly-catchers. Regarded as one of the must-visit places of sightseeing in Kumarakom , the sanctuary is accessible by road & boat from Kumarakom village. It has well-laid paths for moving around within the sanctuary (1-2 hours by foot). The best way to watch the birds is to take a 2-hour boat trip around the sanctuary through country boats available ...

Distance from Kochi: 52 Kms

10. Mahadeva Temple - Ettumanoor

At a distance of 11 Kms from Kottayam Railway Station, Mahadeva Temple located in Ettumanoor is one of the most celebrated Siva temples in Kerala. This is one of the popular tourist & pilgrimage sites to visit near Kottayam & Kochi. This temple is known for its exceptional murals and woodcarvings made in 16th century. The themes of these murals are stills from the Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata and the and Puranas.The oil lamp at the entrance of the temple is believed to have been lighted for more than 450 years and it is fed with oil by the devotees everyday. There are 14 decorative gopuras in the temple built in 16th century. Another attraction of the temple is Ezhara Punnana (golden elephants) donated to the temple by Maharaja of Travancore. The golden elephants are kept on display during the temple annual festival celebrated in the month of February / March. Only Hindus are allowed into this temple. Ezharaponnaana Ezhunallathu is the main festival celebrated for 10 days in the month of Feb- Mar. Timings: 4 AM to 12.30 PM & 5 PM to 8 PM.

Distance from Kochi: 58 Kms

11. Kuttanad

Kuttanad is a region in Alappuzha district that is known as 'Rice Bowl of Kerala ' for the vast paddy fields. With seven rivers flowing through it (Pampa, Manimala, Achencoil, Meenachil, Moovattupuzha, Chalackudy & Periyar), Kuttanad is breathtakingly beautiful. Kuttanad is also popular as an ideal place for Kerala backwaters trip in a houseboat. It is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi & Alappuzha . Kuttanad is one of the very few places in the world where farming is done below the sea level. The most popular route taken to explore Kuttanad is the Alappuzha - Changanassery route. This road takes you through the heart of Kuttanad region demonstrating the daily life of people in the region. The possible activities for the tourists in this region are to visit villages and enjoy the daily life of villagers, walk along the rivers/streams and enjoy the nature or take a boat trip between villages. Nedumudy (11 Kms from Alappuzha - near SH11), Kavalam (20 Kms from Alappuzha) & Champakkulam (13 Kms from Alappuzha - on SH11) are best places to experience the uniqueness of Kuttanad

Distance from Kochi: 75 Kms

12. Thommankuthu Waterfalls

At a distance of 20 km from Thodupuzha, 25 km from Idukki, and 48 km from Munnar, Thommankuthu is a mesmerizing waterfall located in Thodupuzha taluk in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is one of the stunning waterfalls near Kochi , ad among the must-visit places as part of Idukki tour packages . Situated in the southern part of Western Ghats, Thomankoothu a series of 12 falls or kuthus (locally known) spread over an area of 5 km and fall from a height of 40 m. The 12 falls that vary in height and pass through the lush evergreen forests, present a remarkable sight. It is the best place to spend a day watching nature and drown in the waters of the falls. The rich flora and fauna around the waterfall hypnotize the visitors. It is an alluring destination for trekking as it takes you through caves and sleepy hamlets of the tribals. There are also boating and fishing options available in the area and this gives one a great view of the valley. The visitors can enjoy a bath at the falls in summer, but not during the monsoon as the level of water increases. Thommankuthu is one of the major centers of eco-tourism in Kerala, and among the prominent tourist spots in Idukki . This place is connected by bus from Munnar and Thodupuzha. There are no accommodation facilities available near ...

13. Sri Vallabha Temple - Thiruvalla

At a distance of 29 Kms from Kottayam, 35 Kms from Alappuzha & 33 kms from Pathanamthitta, Sri Vallabha Temple is located near Thiruvalla town (4 Kms) in Pathanamthitta district. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one among the 108 Diva Kshetrams in India. This temple is built in typical Kerala style of temple architecture with fine carvings and murals. The inner sanctum of the temple houses a 6 feet tall idol of Maha Vishnu. The flag staff of the temple is made out of granite and it is about 50 feet tall. A 3 feet idol of Garuda (the eagle vehicle of Lord Vishnu) is installed on top of the flagstaff. This temple is famous for the traditional Kathakali performances almost every night and it is perhaps the only temple in Kerala where Kathakali is regularly performed as a ritual offering to a deity, after the evening Pooja The annual festival of the temple is celebrated in Feb / Mar and the Utharaseeveli festival is celebrated for one day on Mar / Apr.

Distance from Kochi: 97 Kms

14. Peechi Dam

At a distance of 22 km from Thrissur, Peechi Dam is a picturesque dam situated at Peechi village near Thrissur. It is one of the scenic tourist places in Thrissur . Built across the Manali River, the Peechi Dam was built in 1959. Ikkanda Warrier (1890-1977), the first Prime Minister of the then independent state of Kochi, India, was the architect of Peechi Dam. The dam was started as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in the Thrissur district and caters to the drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City. The dam has a catchment area of nearly 3,200 acres. There is a nice botanical garden with cascading fountains near the dam which is an added attraction to the visitors. One can go boating in the reservoir during Thrissur tour . Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary situated near the dam is worth paying a visit. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM Entry: Free

Distance from Kochi: 84 Kms

15. Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 23 km from Thrissur, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary located near Peechi village. It is one of the prominent places of wildlife in Kerala , and among the must-include places in Thrissur sightseeing tour . Spread across 125 sq. km, the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1958. It is situated in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani Dams. It is part of the Palapilli-Nelliampathy forests and forms the northern boundary of the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary. There are more than 50 species of orchids and medicinal plants in this sanctuary. There are 60 types of birds, 25 types of mammals, and 10 types of snakes in the sanctuary. The sanctuary provides shelter for Leopards, Tigers, Sambhar Deer, Elks, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer, Wild Dogs, Fox, Langurs, etc. Peechi village is the entry point to the sanctuary. The Forest Department arranges trekking into the sanctuary and is recommended only for experienced trekkers. October to March is the best time to visit. Bookings can be made at Wildlife Warden at Peechi (Ph: 0487-2699017). Timings: 8 M - 5 PM

Distance from Kochi: 83 Kms

16. Valara Waterfalls

At a distance of 39 Kms from Munnar, the magnificent Valara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on Munnar to Kochi highway (NH49), near Cheeyappara Waterfalls. Valara features a chain of waterfalls falling from a height of about 1000 feet and provide a magnificent view. These waterfalls are surrounded by lush, dense forests that are home to a variety of animals and birds. It is one of the top waterfalls near Munnar. Though the falls are visible from highway, it demands good amount of trekking to reach the bottom of the falls. The surrounding places of the Valara Falls are good for trekking. The falls offer spectacular views in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. This place is connected by buses running between Munnar and Kochi.

Distance from Kochi: 82 Kms

17. Chimmony Dam

At a distance of 36 Kms from Thrissur, Chimmony Dam (also known as Chimmini Dam) is a picturesque dam constructed across Chimmony Puzha. Located in Echippara village (2 Kms), near Varandarappilly town, the dam is surrounded by the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary. Close to Peechi Dam and Mangalam Dam, the Chimmony Dam provided water supply for drinking and forming to the nearly by villages. Situated on Nelliyampathy slopes of Western Ghats, Chimmony Dam is a place with immense natural beauty. Boating is also available in the reservoir. It can be reached via Varandarappilly & Palappilly from Thrissur. It has limited public transportation. Best way to reach the dam is to hire private vehicle from Varandarappilly.

Distance from Kochi: 80 Kms

18. Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 34 Kms from Thrissur, Chimmony WLS is located in Echippara village, near Varandarappilly town. The sanctuary is spread around Chimmony Dam. This is one of the popular weekend getaways from Kochi and among the popular wildlife sanctuaries in India . Established in 1958, the sanctuary is spread over 100 Sq. Kms on the Nelliyampathy slopes of Western Ghats. It is bordered with Peechi-Vazhahi Wildlife Sanctuary. The entry point into the sanctuary is at Echipara checkpost (guides can be hired at checkpost). Forest department organizes trekking programs - short (3 Hrs - Rs. 250), half-day (Rs. 400) & full-day (Rs. 800). Bamboo rafting is also offered from Inspection Bungalow (2 Hrs - 100 per person). Elephants, Sambar are most common fauna. There are 200 species of birds and 100 species of butterflies in the sanctuary. Sanctuary timings are 6 AM to 6 PM. Overnight stay is allowed with prior permission. Basic accommodation is available at Inspection Bungalow. For all bookings, contact Wildlife Warden at Peechi (Ph: 0487-2699017). Best season to visit is Sep-Mar.

Distance from Kochi: 78 Kms

19. Mararikulam Beach / Marari Beach

At a distance of 16 km from Alappuzha, Mararikulam Beach is a secluded little-known beach situated at Mararikulam village near Alappuzha. It is one of the most scenic beaches near Kochi , and among the top places of sightseeing in Alleppey . This white sand beach is filled with several coconut trees providing a unique appearance to the beach. It is an ideal place for someone who wants to explore the backwaters of Kerala and relax amidst a peaceful environment. An evening stroll is one of the best hangouts here during your Alleppey trip . This beach is safe for swimming. Tourists can indulge themselves with Ayurvedic treats which are offered by Ayurvedic Massage Centre. The beach is about 3 km from NH47 junction (called Mararikulam-Kalithattu Junction) before Kanjikkunzhi. The NH47 Junction is connected by frequent buses travelling between Alappuzha and Kochi. There are several homestay options just on the shores of the beach. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM Entry: Free

20. Kodungallur / Cranganore

At a distance of 38 km from Kochi & 36 Kms from Thrissur, Kodungallur, also known as Cranganore is a historical town located in Thrissur district on NH17 between Kochi and Kozhikode . This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also an ideal getaway from Kochi for a short trip. Kodungallur was the capital of Cheraman Perumal, the last Chera Ruler in the 7th century AD. Kodungallur is home for several important historical monuments: - Bhagawati Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala with history of above 2000 years and was mentioned in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharatha - Thomas the Apostle of Jesus is believed to have landed in Kodungallur with his followers in the year 52 AD. This place has become the earliest Syrian Christian centre of Malabar. Monuments built in the memory of Thomas still exist here, including St. Thomas Church. - Cheraman Juma Masjid is the first mosque built in India in mid 6th century AD, by Malik Ibn Dinar, the follower of Prophet Muhammad - A fort built by the Portuguese in 1523, which was later captured by Tipu Sultan of Mysore

Distance from Kochi: 32 Kms

21. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

At a distance of 13 km from Kothamangalam, and 62 km from Kochi, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a protected area located at Thattekkad near Kochi, Kerala. Also known as Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, it is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India , and among the major places to visit as part of Kochi tour packages . Spread across 25 Sq. km at the foothills of Western Ghats, the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary was established in 1983 and is the first bird sanctuary in Kerala. Lies across the Periyar River, this sanctuary owes much of its fame to Dr. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist. His famous survey of Travancore in the 1930s led to the formation of this modern-day paradise for avian life. This is one of the popular places to visit near Kochi . The sanctuary is home to about 300 species of birds including Peninsular Bay Owl, Ceylon Frogmouth, Malabar Gray Hornbill, Crested Serpent Eagle, Rose-Billed Roller, etc. It also boasts of over 28 mammal species and over 9 species of reptiles. The place offers one of the best boating options in River Periyar. A brief ride on the river might take you close to cormorants, kingfishers, and many other birds, which feed off fish and other small creatures in the water. There is a deer park inside the sanctuary. Adjacent to the deer park, the Taxidermic Museum showcases the natives ...

Distance from Kochi: 62 Kms

22. Edamalayar Dam

At a distance of 40 km from Athirapally & 76 km from Kochi, Edamalayar Dam, also known as Idamalayar Dam located near Vadattupara is a picturesque location and one of the major reservoirs of Kerala. The Dam is built across Edamalayar River which is merged into Periyar River. The forests around reservoir provide shelter for variety of wildlife. Edamalayar is a heaven for people interested in birding and trekking activities. You can find different species of birds in the forest around the reservoir. Boating in the reservoir will leave a memorable experience.

Distance from Kochi: 69 Kms

23. St .Mary's Orthodox Church - Niranam

At a distance of 39 Kms from Pathanamthitta & 10 kms from Thiruvalla, St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Church located in Niranam (popularly known as Niranam Valiyapally) is a parish under the Niranam Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. Founded by St. Thomas in 54 AD, this is one of the most ancient churches in the world. It also contains the mortal remains of St. Thomas. The present structure was constructed in 1912, and later strengthened in the year 2000. Huge granite Cross, relics of St. Thomas, remains of the old church and the golden cross are the special attractions of the church. The feast of Assumption of St. Mary celebrated on Aug 15th and the Feast of Nativity of St. Mary celebrated on September 8th are important festival of the church. The Feast of St. Thomas on Dec 21st, the Feast of St. Behanan on Dec 27th and the Feasts of Marthoma II and Marthoma V on May10th are also celebrated in a grand manner here. This place is connected by bus from Thiruvalla.

24. Cherai Beach

At a distance of 31 km from Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, Cherai Beach is a beautiful beach located in Cherai village. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Kochi and also one of the top beaches in Kerala. The 15 km of long golden beach is very clean, shallow, and famous attraction for swimming and sunbathing. This is one of the few places where we can see the lagoon and ocean separated only by a few hundreds of metres. The newly beautified 400 meters of the main beach has a walkway and high mask lamps which make the beach enjoyable even at night. The Beach is very safe and tourists of all age groups can enjoy the Beach alike. The beautiful beach is studded with seashells of various hues and shapes. There is a park for children on the beach. Water Scooter and Speed Boats are also available. Dolphins are also spotted at this beach. The far end of the beach lined with Chinese fishing nets is a beautiful sight. A tourism festival is celebrated in the month of December.

Distance from Kochi: 27 Kms

25. St Mary's Forane Church - Kuravilangad

At a distance of 20 Kms from Kottayam, St.Mary's Forane Church (also known as Martha Mariam Church) is located in Kuravilangad, on the way to Muvattupuzha. Constructed in the year of 105 AD, this Church belongs to the diocese of Palai. It is believed that Mother Mary appeared to a few children in this area and asked them to build a church at the place from where a miraculous spring emerged, which exists even today. The church was built and a statue of the Virgin Mary carved from granite is installed here. A 48 feet single block granite cross is located in front of the church, which was erected around 1597. Three majestic bells of Kuravilangad were brought from Germany in 1911. The main festival of the church called 'Moonnu Nompu', celebrated for 3 days in the month of xx. Thousands of devotees from all parts of Kerala participate in the festival.

Distance from Kochi: 53 Kms

26. Poonjar Palace

At a distance of 2 km from Erattupetta, and 41 km from Kottayam, Poonjar Palace is a 600 years old Palace situated at Poonjar village near Kottayam. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Kerala , and among the most famous tourist places in Kottayam . The Poonjar Palace in Meenachil taluk was built by Poonjar Rajas and is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. The palace is entirely made out of wood, reflecting the traditional Kerala architecture. The palace is adorned with a fascinating collection of various types of furniture and antiques which includes grand chandeliers, jewelry boxes, statues, grain measurer, weapons, and palm leaf engravings. Tourists will also see a beautiful sculpture of Nataraja, a palanquin, and a thoni for Ayurvedic massages crafted out of a single piece of wood as part of Kottayam sightseeing packages . The replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple nearby the Palace is another attraction. The walls of this temple have sculptures with warfare stories from the Puranas. However, the most fascinating thing here is the Chuttuvilakku (row of lamps) carved out on the stonewalls of the Sastha Temple nearby. But it is closed for visitors.

Distance from Kochi: 91 Kms

27. Cheeyappara Waterfalls

At a distance of 38 Kms from Munnar, the famous Cheeyappara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on Munnar to Kochi highway (NH49). Cascading down in 7 steps, Cheeyappara Waterfalls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Kerala. This is also a great place for trekking. It is noted for 2 acres of evergreen forests upon a huge rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and an ideal spot for mountaineering. The waterfalls are just adjacent to the highway. The falls offer spectacular views with full glory during summer and it's not possible to reach the bottom of the falls or enjoy in the waters of the falls in monsoon. This place is connected by buses running between Munnar and Kochi.

28. Marmala Waterfall

At a distance of 9 km from Teekoy, 13 km from Erattupetta, and 20 km from Vagamon, Marmala Waterfall is a stunning waterfall situated near Teekoy in the Kottayam district of Kerala. Located on the Vagamon - Erattupetta route, it is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Kerala, and among the must include places in Vagamon Packages. Located inside a private rubber estate, Marmala Waterfall is formed over the Meenachal River. The waterfall is about 60 meters (200 feet) in height and falling into a 12-meter deep pool. The waterfall is dangerous and not recommended for taking bath as the depth and force of the water is too high to bear. Replete with tall trees on the green-carpeted mountains, the clear cascading waters offer a sight like no other. Slightly veiled amidst thick bushes and blue hills, the waterfall is the perfect place to get away from the hustle-bustle of the city and spend some moments of solitude to refresh and rejuvenate. Besides, the mesmerizing natural environment provides plenteous opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture those picture-perfect moments in their cameras. The waterfalls also offer trekking opportunities. Marmala waterfall is a bit remote from Teekoy, the nearest well-known place in the surroundings. The tourists can travel almost near to the rubber estate in a private vehicle but have to trek at least 2 km to reach the waterfalls. The trekking path is not well maintained like a famous tourist destination and the road ...

Distance from Kochi: 90 Kms

29. Illikkal Kallu

At a distance of 10 km from Marmala Waterfalls, 30 km from Vagamon, and 57 km from Kottayam, Illikkal Kallu is a monolith located on top of the Illickal Mala near Meladukkam village in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India. It is one of the scenic viewpoints in the Western Ghats, and among the top places to visit during Vagamon tour . Situated at an altitude of 3400 feet, Illikkal Kallu is a major tourist attraction in Moonnilavu and Thalanadu village of Meenachil taluk. Illikkal Kallu is one of the three hills comprising of Illikkal Mala, one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats. Each of the hills has a peculiar shape. One of them resembles a mushroom, which is why it is known as Kuda Kallu (umbrella-shaped rock). The second hill has a small hunch on the sides and is therefore referred to as Koonu Kallu (hunch back rock). There are two bridges connecting the hills, known as Naragapalam (Hell bridge) and Swargavathil (Entrance to Heaven). A new rope-way is proposed connecting Illikal Kallu and the nearby hill Ilaveezha Poonchira, as a part of Kerala Tourism. The beauty and the landscape of Illikkal Kallu are similar to that of the Pillar Rocks in Kodaikanal. Only one-half of the original rock remains, as the other half of the rock has fallen off. The view from Illikal Kallu is mesmerizing with numerous hills rising to the clouds and the deep valleys. From the hilltop, the Arabian Sea can be seen on the far ...

30. Chavakkad Beach

At a distance of 4 km from Guruvayoor, and 32 km from Thrissur, Chavakkad Beach is a beautiful beach situated at Chavakkad near Guruvayoor. Lying on the coast of the Arabian Sea, it is one of the stunning beaches in Kerala , and among the top Thrissur tourist places . Chavakkad Beach is known for its azure waters, clean sands, and serene environment. This famous beach spot is the only place in Trichur, where one can see the confluence of a river and sea, which is known as Azhimukam in Kerala. The beach is bordered by lovely coconut groves and palm trees. From having a candlelight dinner at the beach to experiencing a romantic walk on the sizzling coastline of the Arabian Sea to a sun-kissed morning on the golden sands, the Chavakkad Beach has every reason to attract tourists as part of Thrissur sightseeing packages . It is a great place to swim and relax in a serene environment. The nearby lighthouse attracts frequent visitors as well. On the other side of the beach is Ramachapadam, a vast farmland of the Ayurvedic herb, Ramacham. The fish market available in the evening sees a huge crowd every day. This beach does not have much commercial activity and less crowded. One can have complete privacy and enjoy the beauty of the beach. It is among the best picnic spots in Thrissur. Timings: ...

31. Nattika Beach

At a distance of 24 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Nattika Beach is the place to experience the exotic beauty of the nature. Nattika is a wide and virgin beach blessed with an endless stretch of golden sand. This picturesque place offers beach holidays and package tours. The resorts in the beaches provide all modern facilities. Prime attractions include ride on country boats, elephant rides, deep-sea fishing & beach games.

32. Vatanappally Beach

At a distance of 17 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station, Vatanappally Beach is among the beautiful Kerala beaches. It is situated on the coastal belt of Thrissur District. It is an enchanting strip of golden sand laced with the rich greenery of coconut palms. Today, this calm and pleasant beach is a dreamy destination for many tourists. This beach is close to NH17 between kochi and Kozhikode and connected by many bus services from Thrissur.

Distance from Kochi: 64 Kms

33. Painavu

At a distance of around 5 km from Idukki Bus Station, 53 km from Munnar, 107 km from Kochi & 130 km from Alappuzha, Painavu is a cute hill resort and also the headquarters of Idukki district. This is one of the popular weekend getaways from Munnar & Kochi. Painavu is an important commercial center and a popular tourist hot spot in Idukki. At an altitude of 3,900 feet, Painavu is situated inside the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. It is also home to several State Government institutions such as Civil Station, and Government Engineering College, Idukki . The place is popular for its pleasing ambience and picturesque location. This is a stopover for visitors, who travel to Idukki Arch Dam, Cheruthoni Dam and Kulamavu. Boats are available from here for cruises between Cheruthoni and Kulamavu. In winter and rainy seasons elephants can be spotted moving on the roads. Surrounded by pristine forests and green hills, Painavu is also a good trekking destination. Trekking in Painavu is said to be an outstanding experience and visitors can see many routes through the forests, plantations and to other small towns. Painavu can be accessed easily by road as it is a 5 km from Idukki Bus station. Also, Painavu can be reached via water from Cheruthoni to Kulamavu junction. The closest railway stations are at Ernakulum (114 km) and Kottaym (98 km). The nearest international airport is at Cochin ...

Distance from Kochi: 99 Kms

34. Malankara Dam

At a distance of 43 Kms from Idukki, 65 Kms from Kumarakom, 58 kms from Kottayam and 80 Kms from Munnar, Malankara Dam & Lake (in Idukki district) is a lovely place located at a distance of 7 Kms from Thodupuzha on Thodupuzha-Erattupetta route. Malankara Lake, spread over 11 Kms is an artificial lake formed as part of Muvattupuzha Valley Irrigation Project. The Dam is constructed across Thodupuzha River for irrigation purpose. This place is a very good picnic spot with boating facilities in the lake. It is located on SH8 and easily accessible from Thodupuzha by Bus, Auto & Cab. Thodupuzha is accessible by Bus from all parts of Kerala. Thommankuthu Waterfalls is about 27 Kms from this place which is connected by Bus from Thodupuzha.

Distance from Kochi: 68 Kms

35. Keezharkuthu Falls / Rainbow Waterfalls

At a distance of 30 Kms from Idukki , 63 Kms from Munnar and 20 Kms from Thodupuzha, Keezharkuthu Waterfalls (also known as Rainbow Waterfalls) is a popular tourist sport near Idukki. It is a cascading waterfalls falling through several steps from a height of over 1500 meters. It is also an ideal place for rock climbing & mountaineering. This place is good to visit throughout the year. The falls are located in deep forest and can be reached by trekking through the forests for over 2 Kms. Nearest town to the falls is Udambannoor, which is connected by Bus with Idukku, Munnar and Thodupuzha. From Udambannoor, the falls are about 6 Kms and there is approach road for about 4 Kms which can be reached by Jeep / Auto. The remaining 2 Kms is trek path.

Distance from Kochi: 89 Kms

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Is Kerala a better place for a family trip? 🌴20 Best Tourist Places In Kerala, India: Unveiling the Charms of God’s Own Country

Is Kerala a better place for a family trip? Yes! Kerala’s family-friendly destinations like Kovalam and Varkala offer beautiful beaches and relaxed atmospheres, making it an ideal destination for families.

Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Nestled on the southwestern coast of India, Kerala is renowned for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Choosing the right tourist places is paramount to ensuring an unforgettable experience.

With so much to explore, selecting the best tourist destinations becomes crucial. Let’s dive into the natural wonders that make Kerala a standout destination.

This article serves as your guide to the best tourist places in Kerala , taking you on a virtual tour through the enchanting landscapes, diverse experiences, and hidden gems that make Kerala a must-visit destination .

List Of Tourist Places In Kerala 

Below is the list of best places to visit in Kerala give everything that any traveler expects from any destination.

1. Alleppey – The Backwater Hot Spot

Alleppey tops this rundown with photos of the best tourist places in Kerala. Moreover, the backwater trips, houseboat stays, and peaceful beauty are attracting a fair number of people to its region.

Also, it is the most celebrated spot to encounter the backwaters of Kerala. Alleppey’s replica of Lord Curzon as East Venice isn’t an overstatement.

A houseboat that stays in Alleppey is the thing that individuals search for when they visit there.

There are spans of paddy fields, pleasant houses of prayer, interesting angling towns as well as lakes. It is pressed with water lilies that make Alleppey also one of the best places to visit in Kerala for couples.

The love of Keralites with coconut as well as banana leaves in their eating routine. Relatively, the cleaner streets will lead you on an old-world walk.

• Places To Stay:  Ramada By Wyndham  Alleppey , Tharavadu Heritage, Bamboo Lagoon, Treebo Tryst Palmyra Grand Suite.
• Shopping: Buy Souvenirs For Your Loved One.
• Nightwalk: Gear Up For A Crazy Campfire.
• Temples: Indulge In Spiritualism.
• Beaches :  Watch The Sun Go Down.
• Perfect Duration:  1 Night/2 Days.
• Celebrated Vacation Destinations:  Alappuzha Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The Snake Boat Race in Alleppey is yet a swarming puller.
• Perfect Time To Visit:  September to mid-May.
• The closest Air Terminal: is Kochi Airport, 53 km away from the town.
• Closest Train Station:  Alleppey Railway Station; it is simply inside as far as possible.

2. Munnar – Perfect For A Dreamy Honeymoon

An extremely well-known one among hill stations in Kerala. Munnar is also one of the best tourist places in Kerala for 2 day trip schedule. Once the late spring capital for the British, Munnar sightseeing attracts travelers from all over the world.

Moreover, With about 80,000 miles of tea manor, an equivalent measure of aromatic vegetation, misty valleys, and low-flying mists.

Munnar is a slope station that has also become one of the best and most unique places to visit in Kerala at night.

Adorable cabins, comfortable homestays, lavish hotels as well and resorts in Munnar make it the most sentimental place. 

Also, it’s among the top spots to visit in Kerala. The old-world pilgrim feel has its charms and it unquestionably makes for a decent selfie drive.

Revel in the phenomenal mix of extravagance and excellence, at the most stunning vacation resorts in Munnar.

• Places To Stay:  Chandy’s Windy Woods, Pallivasal, The Panoramic Getaway, Forest Glade, Devonshire Greens.
• Kolukkumalai: Tea Estate Tours.
• Echo Point: Camping And Trekking.
• Eravikulam National Park: Spot Rare Species.
• Perfect Duration:  2 Nights/3 Days.
• Perfect Time To Visit:  October to March.
• Nearest Airport:  Kochi Airport, at a simple separation of 143 km from the slope station.
• Closest Train Station:  Aluva Railway Station, which is 110 km away from Munnar.

Must Read: 10 Important Things About Krabi Or Phuket (Krabi Vs Phuket)

3. Kumarakom – One Of The Most Peaceful Places

Established in the backdrop of Vembanad Lake. Kumarakom is a calm little village with charming views. However, it’s a wonderful climate as well as attractive nature making it one of the loveliest tourist places in Kerala .

Moreover, you get a blend of everything here backwaters, authentic Kerala nourishment, uber outside air, the glow of Keralites.

You will also get delightfully new coconuts. Also, there is a great deal to do; browse drifting, cruising, Kumarakom houseboat stay, and also angling.

Kumarakom holds a unique spot in the rundown of the best places to visit in Kerala . The enticing conduits, decorated lakes, aromatic coconut grooves, fresh paddy fields, thick mangrove woods, and delightful authentic nourishment.

Also, the unpolluted newness of the air adds to the rundown. Likewise, Kumarakom’s houseboat stay offers significantly more isolation and protection when compared to Alleppey. Indeed, even the resorts in Kumarakom are extraordinarily peaceful and entrancing.

• Places To Stay:  Hotel Green Fields, Hotel The Club, Royal Riviera Hotel and Resort, Lakshmi Hotel.
• Things To Do:  Houseboat Ride, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Maya Spa, Kathakali Performance.
• Mainstream Vacation Spots:  Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Backwaters, Aruvikkuzhi cascade, Juma Masjid as well as Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple. Also, Vembanad Lake, Valiyapally, Cheriyapally, Kumarakom Beach, Bay Island Driftwood Museum as well as Pathiramal Island.
• Perfect Time To Visit:  September to May.
• Closest Air Terminal:   Kochi Airport is 85 km away from Kumarakom.
• Closest Train Station:  Kottayam Railway Station is 16 km away.

4. Wayanad – The Land Of Paradisiacal Trails

Wayanad implies the place where there are paddy fields in Malayalam. However, Wayanad is one of the greenest tourist places in Kerala . Enhanced with genuine excellence, quiet air as well as rich culture.

Moreover, Wayanad in the travel industry is an ideal blend of nature and man-made legacy. Little, anonymous cascades, that line the city erratically, add to the spot’s appeal. Wayanad is also one of the most refreshing forest places to visit in Kerala .

• Places To Stay:  Arayal, Banasura Hill, Wayanad Wild – CGH Earth, Mount Xanadu.
• Kuruva Island: Enjoy Bamboo Rafting.
• Pookode Lake: Enjoy Boating.
• Camping: When The Hills Summon You.
• Cycling: Go Around Town.
• Perfect Duration:  1 Night/2 Days. 
• Places To Visit:  Besides the top 10 vacation places in Wayanad, there are Thirunelli Temple, Banasura Hill as well and Thusharagiri Waterfalls. Also, Kuruvadweep, Puliyarmala Jain Temple.  Lakkidi View Point, Kabini, Papanashini River as well as Padinjarathara Dam.
• Perfect Time To Visit:  October to May. Experience fans should visit during the rainstorm-long stretches of July and August to appreciate the advantages of trekking.
• Closest Air Terminal:  Karipur International Airport at Calicut is only 95 km away.
• Closest Train Station:  Kozhikode Railway Station, which is 72 km away from Wayanad.

Also Read :  Top 20 Tourist Places In Bangalore / Bengaluru For A Memorable Vacation

5. Thekkady – The Affection for Wildlife

Thekkady is just paradise covered up in thick woods and wild vegetation. This is actually what makes it one of the best forest tourist places in Kerala .

Moreover, one gets the chance to see about wiped-out types of creatures including tigers, sambars, gaurs, and lions. Likewise, there are elephants, lions, deer, buffalo, hogs, and the Great Indian tigers.

Presumably, the most preferred places to visit in Kerala for the vacationer. Thekkady brags of inexhaustible magnificence as well as fascinating natural life.

However, its trekking path from Moozhiyar to Thekkady Gavi is one of the most well-known paths in South India. Sailing and untamed life perception are two of the most loved hobbies in Thekkady.

• Places To Stay  The Elephant Court, Paradisa Plantation Retreat, The Mountain Courtyard, Forest Canopy, and Poetree Sarovar Portico. 
• Things to Do:  Thekkady Boating Tours, Bamboo Rafting and Hiking in Thekkady, Border Hiking, and Jungle Night Patrol. 
• Perfect Duration:  1 Day.
• Must Visit:  Kadathanadan Kalari Center, Periyar Lake, Elephant Junction, Ayurvedic Garden, Kumily, Deepa World Spice as well as Ramakkalmedu. And also Mullaperiyar Dam, Periyar Tiger Trail, Vandiperiyar, Chellarkovil,  Mudra Cultural Center, Murikkady, and Vandanmedu.
• Perfect Time To Visit:  November to early May. 
• Closest Air Terminal:  Madurai Airport is only 136 km away.
• Closest Train Station:  Kottayam Railway Station is 114 km away.

6. Kovalam – Some Beach Enjoyment

Kovalam Seashore is one of the best seashores in Kerala. Also, it is well known for its New Year festivities, and profound solid back rubs. It is also popular for Ayurvedic medicines, sunbathing fests as well as water sports like parasailing.

Moreover, it has a bow-formed coastline that is continually humming with exercises. Individuals from various nations, societies as well and states meet up and add to the magnificence of the spot. Also, one of the most demanding tourist places in Kerala.

• Places to Stay:  Hotel Jasmine Palace Kovalam, Hotel Samudra KTDC, Jumayira Residency, Kovalam Beach Hotel as well as Unwind Hotels. 
• Take a touring visit: An outing to find the town.
• Spend a night in the houseboat: Give experienced sports a shot. 
• Must Visit:  Hawah Beach,  Lighthouse Beach, The Lighthouse, Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple and also Samudra Beach, Also, Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, Akkulam Lake, Vizhinjam Fishing Harbor as well as Halcyon Castle. And also Kovalam Jama Masjid, Vellayani Lake, Karamana River, Aruvikkara, Rock Cut Caves, and Valiathura Pier.
• Perfect Time To Visit:  September to May. 
• Closest Air Terminal:  Trivandrum International Airport is unimportant 15 km away.
• Closest Train Station:  Trivandrum Railway Station is only 14 km away. [

Must Read : 15 Best Tourist Places In Agra: Enjoy the City Beyond Taj Mahal

7. Vagamon – Mandatory Solitude

It is also famous for the Charming Slope station, embellished with supernatural knolls, mysterious nurseries, and lovely dales.

Also famous for, sweet-smelling tea estates, and cloudy valleys, Vagamon hills. All of these have without a doubt earned their place among the best tourist places in Kerala .

The outside air and perfectly manicured gardens of Vagamon are a much-needed refresher.

• Places To Stay:  Honeycomb By Astral Inn, Chillax, Falcon Crest, Lavender, The Kissing Mountains. 
• Murugan Mala: Trekking, Off-Roading.
• Vagamon Lake: Boat Ride.
• Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary-Visit. 
• Perfect Duration:  1 Day. 
• Must Visit:  Murugan Hill, Thangal Hill, Kurisumala, Barren Hills, The Pattumala Church as well as Vagamon Lake. Also, Vagamon Pine Forest, Vagamon Falls, Mundakayam Ghat, and Maramala Waterfalls.
• Perfect Time To Visit:  Early August to May. 
• Closest Air Terminal:  Kochi International Airport is 94 km away from Vagamon.
• Closest Train Station:  Kottayam Railway Station is 15 km away.

8. Bekal – Nothing On Earth Less Than Paradise

Bekal is particularly known for its acclaimed Bekal Fort, which is appraised among the best places to visit in Kerala . However, numerous Indian motion pictures, like Rang De Basanti, are shot in the stronghold premises.

Moreover, the ocean breeze going through your hair. The wonderful climate, as well as the great organization, are key fixings to make some great memories in Bekal. Inferable from colorful excellence and also tranquillity, Bekal is among the best three special tourist places in Kerala at night.

• Places To Stay:  Taj Bekal resort and spa, The Lalit Resort and Spa Bekal, Kanan Beach Resorts, Malabar Oceanfront Resort. 
• Bekal Fort: Witness The Glory and Grandeur Of Bekal’s.
• Bekal Beach: Explore the heavenly paradise delight.
• Nityanand Ashram caves: experience tranquillity. 
• Must Visit:  Ananthapura temple, Bekal Fort, Valiyaparamba Backwaters as well as Mallikarjuna Temple. Also, Bekal Beach, Chandragiri Fort, Nileswaram, Bekal Hole Aqua Park,  Kappil Beach, and also Pallikere Beach.
• Best Time To Visit:  September to May. 
• Closest Air Terminal:  Bajpe airport is closest at 72 km.
• Closest Train Station:  Kasaragod railway station is only 12 km from Bekal.

9. Varkala – Kerala’s Most Beautiful Seashores

Varkala is extraordinary compared to other coastline tourist places in Kerala . Moreover, the alluring coastline with mountains on one side and also lavish greenery.

Also, on the other side draws in a large number of voyagers as well as water-experience enthusiasts to the seashore. It is well known for exercises like vessel riding, surfing, parasailing, and horse riding are the life of the seashore.

The unequaled excellence of the seashore is at its prime during sunsets. The shades of brilliant beams make for a strange environment. Include a scramble of extravagance by looking over the most exotic seashore resorts in Kerala, around Varkala.

Moreover, Varkala is an important religious place in Hindu culture. Embellished with numerous Hindu sanctuaries. It invites numerous strict voyagers as well as legacy lovers to its creases with great enthusiasm.

• Places To Stay:  Zostel Varkala, Quality Inn, Varkala Cliff Villa, The Lost Hostel, Short Giraffe Hostels.
• Water Sports: Be Thrilled.
• Varkala Culture Center: For An Enriching Experience.
• Yoga: Rejuvenate Yourself.
• Local Cuisine: Treat Your Tastebuds. 
• Must Visit:  Janardhan temple, Varkala Beach, Sivagiri Muth, Papanasam Beach, Kappil Lake as well as Janardan Swami Temple. Also, Anjengo Fort, Vishnu Temple, Sarkara Devi Temple, Varkala Tunnel as well as Kaduvayil Thangal Dargah.
• Best Time To Visit:  August to mid-May. 
• Closest Air Terminal:  Trivandrum International Airport is 53 km away.
• Closest Train Station:  Varkala Sivagiri railway rotation is well inside as far as possible.

10. Kannur – The Ideal City On The Coastal

Kannur, in the past, known as Cannanore, is also among the picturesque places to visit in Kerala , famous for weaving ventures. Moreover, feel the appeal of this lovely provincial town, situated at the northeastern shore of Kerala. 

Its sun-kissed seashores are flanked by rich cashew estates, antiquated sanctuaries, and impressive landmarks British as well as Dutch-style structures.

• Places To Stay:  Hotel Blue Nile, Central Avenue, Broad Bean, Sea Breeze Beach Inn, Royal Omars. 
• Things To Do:  Banana Boat Ride, Paithalmala Trekking, Bike Trip, Wave Runner, Boating.
• Well-known Vacationer Attractions:  Ezhimala Beach, Fort St. Angelos, Tellicherry Fort, and Rajarajeshwara Temple. 
• Best Time To Visit:  October to March to appreciate a cool atmosphere.
• The closest Airport:  Calicut International Airport. 
• The closest Train Station: is Kannur Main.

Also Read : Tourist Places In Jaipur

11. Kasargod – Kerala’s Coastal Heaven

Found near Bekal, tucked between the Western Ghats on one side and sky-blue the Arabian Sea on the other. Kasargod is a hypnotizing stunner of ‘God’s own State.

It features moving slopes, extravagant coconut plantations, alleviating ocean breeze, and a host of legacy sanctuaries. However, it draws in harmony cherishes travelers, and is considered as one of the most photogenic tourist places in Kerala .

• Famous Vacationer Attractions:  Bekal Fort, Madhur Temple, Thonikadavu and Ananthapura Lake Temple, Malom Wildlife Sanctuary, and Ranipuram. 
• Perfect Time To Visit:  January to February and June to November. Maintain a strategic distance from summer for a very long time as they are warm and sticky.
• The closest Airport:  Mangalore International Airport. 
• Closest Train Station:  Kasargod has its railhead.

12. Kizhunna Beach – Fully Relax

Recorded as one of the disconnected seashores in Kerala. Kizhunna Beach is excellent, less swarmed as well as immaculate. Enhanced by bright and dark mountains and also flanked by lavish green palm manors.

Kizhunna Beach is also the perfect spot to relax, loosen up and revive. However, people visit this grand seashore at the end of the week and also enjoy sunbathing, seashore walks, and swimming.

• Well-known Traveller Attractions:  Ezhara is viewed as the twin seashore of Kizhunna, Arakkal Museum, Munambam. 
• Best Time To Visit:  Round the year, aside from June to August.
• The closest Train Station: is Kannur.

13. Idukki – The Real Pearl Of Kerala

When unwinding and revival is your need, plan an excursion to Idukki. Settled amid verdant slopes and extravagant forests. However, Idukki attracts explorers, nature lovers as well and photography buffs with its shocking normal atmosphere and attractions.

Surrounded by fragrant tea and zest estates, Idukki is irrefutably also one of the famous tourist places in Kerala. Also, it is perfect for treks, nature strolls, and feathered creature viewing.

• Places To Stay:  Best mist homestay, meadows pride homestay, Olivia homestay, John’s Villa homestay, Green Spot Homestay. 
• Things To Do:  Trekking, Camping, Paragliding, Misty Mountain Resort. 
• Well-known Traveller Attractions:  Kolukkumalai tea estate, Thommankuthu Falls, Thattekkad bird sanctuary or Salim Ali bird sanctuary, Namakkal, Kalvari Mount, Idukki Arch dam, Cheeyappara waterfalls, and Kalvari mount. 
• Perfect Time To Visit:  November to January and  June to August.
• The closest Airport:  Kochi. 
• Closest Train Station:  Theni-60 km from Idukki.

14. Munroe Island – An Exciting Canal Cruise

Roosted at the combination of Ashtamudi Lake and river Kallada. It is 27 km from Kollam, Munroe Island is well known for its channel journey in Kerala. Named after Colonel Munroe. This place also shows a grand country scene in Kerala.

It has covered houses, coconut estates, restricted waterways, tidal ponds as well as mangrove backwoods. Also, considered probably the best place to visit in Kerala. Munroe Island is also well known for the Kallada Boat Race held in September consistently.

District Tourism Promotion Council controls the mail tour of Munroe Island. However, It’s scheduled twice a day, morning at 9:00 AM and evening at 2 PM. The charge per individual for the journey is INR 500.

• Mainstream Traveller Attractions:  Thangassery Light House, Kollam Beach as well as Thirumullavaram Beach. 
• Best Time To Visit:  Throughout the year, aside from the storm.
• The closest Airport:  Trivandrum International Airport. 
• The closest Train Station:  Munroe Island Railway Station.

15. Thrissur – Sense Rich Cultural Heritage

Thrissur celebrates its rich social event alongside beautiful, pleasant cascades as well as seashores. However, acclaimed for Thrissur Pooram and also Onam festivities.

This little interesting town of Kerala is also fittingly recognized as the ‘social capital of Kerala. Also, one of the best tourist places in Kerala .

• Places To Stay:  Hotel Niya Regency, Kochi Marriott Hotel, KPM Tripenta Hotel, Hotel Abis Grand, The Mayberry.
• Perfect Time To Visit:  October till  March is the best time to visit Thrissur. One can likewise visit during April and May to encounter the magnificence of the Thrissur Pooram celebration.
• The closest Airport:  Cochin International Airport.
• Closest Train Station:  Thrissur railroad station; all around associated with Trivandrum, Chennai, Bangalore, Pune, Mumbai, and Delhi.

16. Cochin – Main Port City

Cochin is a significant port city in God’s own State. Moreover, affectionately called the Queen of the Arabian Sea. Also, it is one of the best tourist places in Kerala that have perpetually been on every traveller’s container list.

It’s an ideal mix of nearby flavours as well as present-day knowledge, to offer the best to its guests. The backwaters, seashores as well as customary zest markets are a short drive from Cochin.

• Places to Stay:  Sea Lagoon Health Resort, Sea Lagoon Health Resort, Holiday Inn Cochin, The Mercy and Travancore Court By Spree.
• Best Time To Visit:  July to April.
• The closest Train Station:  Kochi Railway Junction.

17. Thiruvananthapuram – Economic Capital Of Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city of God’s own nation and furthermore one of the popular Kerala travel industry places.

This biggest city in the state has numerous places of interest, fascinating seashores, and significantly more. It is also probably the best city to live in in India.

Also, it is additionally appropriately called the Economic Capital of Kerala. With such a significant number of spots to visit, it draws in vacationers from varying backgrounds. It also among the most famous tourist places in Kerala .

• Perfect Time To Visit:  October to February.
• The closest Airport:  Trivandrum International Airport.
• Closest Train Station:  Trivandrum Central Railway Station

18. Kollam-Natural Marvels Treasure Chest

Often named as one of the best places to visit in Kerala.   However, Kollam has shown to be an ideal place for those wanting to enjoy the peace of nature.

Also, Kollam is also referred to as the backwaters gateway as well as exhibits. And also It has some of the most picturesque views that steal away the viewer’s breath.

Snuggled on the Ashtamudi Lakeshores, this destination is renowned for its rich as well as deeply rooted past. This town smells of the charm of the old world. Also, it is also home to numerous ports in the Arabian Sea that once played a significant role for traders.

• Places to Stay:  Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Ayurveda Spa, All Seasons Hotel, The Raviz Resort and Spa, Ashtamudi Villas, D’Fort Ayurvedic Resort in All Seasons.
• Things To Do:  Canoeing, sports in Paddlesport, ATV Rides, Bike Tour, and also a Houseboat Trip.
• Ideal Duration:  1 Day/2 Night.
• Best Visiting Time:  September to February.
• Nearest Airport:  The nearest airport to Trivandrum is 66 km.
• Nearest Railway Station:  Railway station Kollam Junction is situated within the town itself.

19. Mannarkkad-To Silent Valley Doorway

Lying in God’s Own Country. Mannarkkad is one of those tourist places in Kerala that attracts travellers looking to get closer to nature as well as wildlife. This destination, incredibly blessed with its mother nature, is also home to an extensive number of cultural villages.

Mannarkkad is also a town that looks straight out of a fairytale with captivating rivers flowing through the wooded valley. Also, make it a spectacular location.

Snuggling on the Western Ghats foothills, Mannarkkad is a town that is one of Kerala’s largest agricultural markets. Also, different plantation products include cinnamon,  pepper, rubber as well as plantain. It is also one of the most demanding places to visit in Kerala .

• Nearby Popular Tourist Sights:  Ooty, Wayanad, Munnar, Palakkad, Nilambur, Coonoor, and also Malampuzha.
• Best Visit Time:  May to September.
• Nearest Airport:  The nearest airport is Calicut is 73 km away.
• Nearest Railway Station:  The nearest railway station in Palakkad is 32 km away.

20. Ponnani-Land That Is Historically Harmonious

Also, one of the most stunning sightseeing places to visit in Kerala. Ponnani is a beach town that looks straight out of a book of stories.  Also, the vast sandy beaches with clear blue waters of the Arabian Sea gave this town its fame.

This destination is also known as the Mecca of South India with its floors covered by numerous Muslim Institutions.

Ponnani is also a place where one can see cultural peace at its finest. This destination has no dearth of eye-catching flora and fauna, making it also one of the most-visited tourist places in Kerala.

• Ideal Time:  1 Day.
• Popular Tourist Attractions:  Jama Masjid, Thrikkavu temple, Mosque of the Human Ath, Padinharekara beach, and also Temple of Navamukunda. 
• Nearest Airport:  The nearest airport is Calicut is 55 km away.
• Closest Railway Station:  The nearest railway station to Tirur is 19 km away.

Also Read : Places To Visit In Haridwar

FAQ’s About Tourist Places In Kerala

Lot of questions comes to our mind while planning to visit kerala, some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

Q. What is the best time to visit Kerala?

A. The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and festivals like Onam add cultural vibrancy.

Q. How can I explore the backwaters in Kerala?

A. To explore the backwaters, consider renting a houseboat in Alleppey or Kumarakom. It provides a unique and relaxing way to experience Kerala’s waterways.

Q. Are there any trekking opportunities in Kerala?

A. Yes, Kerala offers various trekking opportunities, with destinations like Munnar and Wayanad providing scenic trails suitable for all levels of trekkers.

Q. What is the traditional cuisine of Kerala?

A. Kerala is known for its delectable cuisine, featuring dishes like appam, puttu, and the famous Kerala Sadya – a traditional feast served on a banana leaf.

Q. Are there any wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala?

A. Yes, Kerala boasts several wildlife sanctuaries, including Periyar National Park and Silent Valley National Park, where you can spot diverse flora and fauna.

Q. Which is the No 1 tourist places in Kerala?

A. The top tourist spot in Kerala is undoubtedly Munnar, known for its stunning tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes.

Q. How can I plan for 3 days in Kerala?

A. Craft a memorable 3-day Kerala itinerary by exploring Kochi’s history, cruising Alleppey’s backwaters, and unwinding on Kovalam Beach.

Q. Which is the best trip place?

A. For an unforgettable experience, consider Wayanad as the best trip place in Kerala, offering nature’s playground with dense forests and hidden waterfalls.

Q. Where is best in Kerala?

A. The best destination in Kerala is subjective, but Wayanad, with its natural beauty and adventurous opportunities, stands out for many travelers.

Q. What makes Kerala a unique tourist destination?

A. Kerala’s uniqueness stems from its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a wide array of experiences, ranging from backwaters to hill stations and vibrant beaches.

Q. Are houseboat cruises a popular attraction in Kerala?

A. Absolutely! Houseboat cruises are a quintessential Kerala experience, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the backwaters.

Q. What is the best time to visit Kerala for wildlife enthusiasts?

A. The best time for wildlife enthusiasts is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant, and animals are more active.

Q. What are the must-try dishes in Kerala?

A. Kerala’s cuisine offers a variety of delicacies, including appam with stew, Kerala-style fish curry, and traditional seafood dishes.

Tell Us In The Comments About One Of Your Favourite Tourist Places In Kerala.

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

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What is the significance of temples in Indian culture? 🛕15 Most Famous Temples In India: Exploring Spiritual Marvels

Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

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20 best tourist places in kerala every traveler must experience.

Kerala is the crowning glory of India’s grandeur. Ranked ninth as an eco-tourism destination on the “World’s Greatest Places 2022” list by TIME magazine, it holds its position as one of India’s top travel destinations. Nationally and internationally acclaimed, Kerala Tourism  was recently honored with the “Responsible Tourism Global Award” at the World Travel Mart forum in London, UK.

Kerala’s sublime beauty transports visitors back in time, from its magnificent heritage sites to the timeless ebb and flow of its backwaters. Often described as a ‘thing of beauty, a joy forever’, it welcomes travelers in all seasons – be it summer, winter, or monsoon. Picturesque and captivating, Kerala is an all-season tourist paradise, rich in cultural heritage, flora, and fauna. The grandeur of its temple architecture stands as an invitation for visitors to immerse themselves in its beauty.

Experience the divine allure of ‘God’s Own Country’, from its pristine beaches to dense forests and majestic mountains, each echoing tales of tranquillity and eternal joy. Kerala’s renowned cuisine invites travelers to savor its world-famous culinary delights. For those in pursuit of a distinctive travel experience, Kerala tourism introduces Caravan Tourism, promising a comfortable journey with minimal human interaction. For those eager to connect deeply with the region’s spirit, Kerala is ready to welcome you.

Here’s our updated list of the top 20 must-visit tourist places in Kerala for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Thiruvananthapuram
• Mararikulam

Kerala Travel & Tourism Quick Information

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Queen of Arabian Sea Kochi  

Past splendours and contemporary style make Kochi Kerala’s one of the most engaging cities. Travellers vanished into the mist of time used to call Kochi ‘Cocym’.

Connect with Kochi’s heart through its backwater villages, small cafes, Dutch mansions, Raj-era bungalows, Elephant training camp, Bird sanctuary and waterfalls.

If you want to escape the city rush, then disappear to the most beautiful Beaches and peaceful rural Buddhist sites.

At Marine Drive, you will be lured by the spectacular view of lights reflected in water from the ships anchored in the harbour at night. One of the major attractions in Kochi is watching the Chinese fishing nets in action on the promenade. Not only that If you visit SNC Maritime museum, the star attraction is the 300 years old boat belonging to the Raja of Ambalapuzha.

Kochi also houses India’s first European church – St Francis Church. It is the original burial spot of the great Portuguese explorer Vasco De Gama. And the best from the rest is the melodious rhythm of the Athirapally Waterfalls never ceases to give a blissful experience. Visiting Kerala would be incomplete without viewing the breathtaking cosmopolitan legacy of Kochi.

Popular Tourist Attractions in and around Kochi, Kerala

• Bolgatty Island – It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kochi.  Bolgatty Island was built by an anonymous Dutch trader in 1744. You can reach here via Goshree Bridge.
• Mattancherry- This place has an historical vibe. It is a home to the oldest synagogue in the country. Jewish community dates back to 2000 years lives here. Mattancherry is an epicentre of spice, local handicrafts, culture and lip smacking food. The main attraction of Mattancherry is Mattancherry Palace which is also known as Dutch palace which is a masterpiece of Colonial and Kerala style architecture. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Kochi.
• Princess Street – Princess Street in Kochi is one of the most popular points of tourist interest in Kerala. It still retains its old world charm which never ceases to attract tourist. It is the oldest street of Kochi. The street gives the colonial vibes. Tourists are fascinated by the beauty of old European homes built in Dutch, French, Portuguese styles.
• Hill Palace Archaeological Museum – It is one of the must visit places in Kerala. It was built in 1865; it is Kerala’s first heritage museum. It was the official residence of the erstwhile rulers of Kochi. The museum showcases wooden memorials from Indus Valley civilization, murals, sculptures, displaying royal throne, picture of former rulers and Tanjore paintings.
• Thirumala Devaswom Temple- After the decline of the legendary Vijayanagar Empire, Gowda Saraswat Brahmins built the temple in 1599 to worship Sri VenkataChalapati Thirumala Devar Idol. – It is one of the must visit places in Kerala.
• Vypin – This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala. Vypin Island connects Kochi with Goshree bridges touching two other islands Mulavukadu and Vallarpadam. Boating in Vypin Island is one of the top things to do in Kochi. Paddy fields, Backwaters, Coconut groves and Dolphins in waters are the mesmerising sight to behold.

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Alappuzha – Delightful Venice of the East

No doubt one can have ‘memories or fun longer than the road that stretches out ahead’ in Alappuzha.  Alappuzha is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala.

Close down the sounds of all the cities and you will hear melodious chirping of rare avian species, coming from places like Siberia in Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.  It is a paradise of bird watchers as various species of birds like Little Cormorant, Indian Darter, White Ibis, Kingfishers and many more. Boating to watch the migratory birds is one of the top things to do in Alappuzha.

Don’t miss the wondrous and warm island of Pathiramanal which can only be accessible by Boat. It is one of the offbeat tourist destinations in Kerala.

Visit the mysterious yet delightful Krishnapuram Palace which was once the residence of the rulers of Kayamkulam Kingdom. It houses the 49sq km Gajendra Moksham which is the largest single band of Mural paintings discovered in Kerala. Exquisite display of Bronze sculptures, Paintings, beautiful gardens and the recently discovered Buddha Mandapam makes it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alappuzha.

Apart from that Kuttanad Backwaters, Alappuzha Lighthouse, Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach are the most popular destinations in Alappuzha.

Top Things to Do in Alappuzha, Kerala

• Houseboat Cruise – In a song filled morning, cruising in a houseboat on the backwaters is one of the top things to do in Alappuzha. Thrilling boat races, awesome backwater holidays, marine products, beautiful beaches are the main attractions in Alappuzha. Backwaters of Kuttanad are the best part of enjoying holidays in Kerala. As you navigate through the narrow canals, coconut palms, dense vegetation, paddy fields, churches and mosques will be an interesting sight to behold.
• Mullackal Road- Mullackal Road is the one of the most popular tourist places of interest in Alappuzha. It is a paradise for shoppers. One can find variety of spices, gold jewellery, bell metal and fishing equipments.
• Alappuzha Lakes- Tranquil waters of Punnamada and Vembanad will never cease to attract you. The easiest way to reach is the chartered diesel-powered motorboats. Holidaying is Kerala is incomplete without enjoying the bliss of Alappuzha Lakes.
• Mararikulam – Don’t forget to miss the north side of Alappuzha – Mararikulam. It is a fishing village.  Holidays in Kerala would be blissful if you experience the simple lifestyle of traditional village of Mararikulam.  Away from the chaos of city there is nothing so good for a traveller to rest in the lap of nature. Lotus ponds and coconut grooves are a mesmerizing site to behold.

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Kollam – Kerala’s blissful heart

Kollam is one of the most visited destinations in Kerala. The grandeur of Kollam lured Phoenicians and Romans in ancient times because of its spice trade but now it is popular for its industries like fisheries, Cashew and nut processing.

It houses relics of the past and temples which are built in traditional ornate architectural style. This town has many traditional bazaars, narrow backstreets, rice stores, wooden houses and coir warehouses. If the chaos of the city overwhelms you too much then escape to the peaceful Kollam beach for a blissful experience.

The backwater houseboat rides from Kollam to Alappuzha is one of the top things to do in Kerala. DTPC offers backwater cruises from Kollam to Alappuzha. Munroe Island in Kollam is a must visit in Kerala. It is a cluster of 8 islands. Narrow waterways, canal cruise, serene setting, tranquil waters brings its own enchantment and the cool winds across the brine roam with a purpose to never find a home in your heart. Visiting Kollam would be a wonderful experience.

Kollam also offers mesmerizing sites old colonial era buildings.

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Kollam are-

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum – It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kollam. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum chronicles the history and development of the police force. There are various exhibits, guns, machines and police arms of 18 th and 19 th Martyr’s gallery is the centre of attraction which displays the fascinating history of Police force.
• Thangassery – It is also known as gold village. It houses the majestic Portuguese fort and churches of 18 th Lighthouse road is the centre of attraction in which Thangassery Lighthouse stands still in pride, it is 144 ft high. You will be mesmerized by the beauty of sea. It also offers the opportunity to view beautiful sunset and the blissful moonlight. Holidaying in Kerala becomes blissful because of these scenic beauties.
• Thevally Palace – It is a marvellous piece of colonial architecture in the banks of beautiful Ashtamudi Lake. There is a temple of divine Lord Sastha inside the palace. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Kerala.
• Thiruvalla- It is one of the most popular places in Kerala. It houses Shree Vallabha Temple which is the only temple in Kerala, where Kathakali Dance is performed as a ritual offering.
• Jatayu’s Bird Center – You will be mesmerised by the beauty of the world’s largest Bird sculpture. This is Kerala’s First ever Build- operate –transfer (BOT) tourism. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala. Jatayu is the legendary bird mentioned in the Hindu epic Ramayana.

Apart from the above mentioned places Kollam Cave temple, Malamel Temple, Kollam Harbour and Kollam beach are some of the most popular tourist attractions for blissful holidays in Kerala.

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Bekal – Offbeat Gem of Kerala

Bekal is a place where your soul will open out her raven’s wings to fly. Your emotions will flow in tune with the calmness of pristine waterfalls. Crystal clear backwaters blow your heart away. 300 year old historical charm of Bekal fort is still intact.

Breathtaking views of sunset and thrilling opportunities for water sports and nature walks of Bekal makes holiday in Kerala awesome. Bekal is known for its unique granite idols, coconut products, and wood carvings.

Bekal is a heaven sent blessing for nature lovers. It is a gateway to enchanting locations like Kannur and Kozhikode. It is one of the offbeat tourist attractions in Kerala. Bekal is the perfect place to enjoy your holidays with family and friends.

One can escape the city chaos at serene backwaters of Valiyaparamba for a blissful boat ride at sunset and Beaches swaying with palm and coconut trees. Bekal is the perfect destination to indulge in yoga and meditation. Bekal also has some very good health retreats and spas to rejuvenate your soul and mind. If a peaceful and scenic setting is all what you want then Bekal is a must visit tourist destination in Kerala.

Some of the most popular destinations in Bekal, Kerala are-

• Bekal Beach Park – Away from the chaos of the city life, Bekal Beach Park offers serene surroundings, scenic views and peaceful vibes. With the breathtaking views of Bekal fort, Bekal Beach Park offers entertainment facilities to enjoy with family and friends. Tourists can enjoy local delicacies of Kerala here. It is one of the offbeat tourist destinations in Kerala.
• Kapil Beach – It is one of the offbeat destinations in Kerala. It is an isolated beach to enjoy peaceful and scenic setting with family and friends. Climb to the Kodi cliff if you want to watch the breathtaking sights of Arabian Sea. Rare sea shells, lush green coconut trees and nature walks will make your day.
• Ullal – It is known for its religious places. Peaceful vibes and gorgeous south Indian architecture will melt your heart. The tomb of Sufi saint Sayyed Madani, Somnatheshwara Temple, St Sebastian church and Ullal Jama Masjid are some major tourist attractions in Ullal.
• Hasdurg Fort- Holidays in Kerala would be more blissful if you visit Hosdurg Fort. It is popularly known as Kanhagarh fort. Karpooreshwar Temple is located right next to it.  Hosdurg fort was built by Somashekara Nayak of Ikkeri dynasty.  It also houses the internationally renowned spiritual centre Nithyanandashram.

Apart from the above-mentioned places Thalassery, Vliyaparamba backwaters, Malik deenar mosque, Malikarjuna temple, Krishna Menon Museum, Pazhassiraja Museum East Hill are some major tourist attractions in and around Bekal which will make your holidays in Kerala memorable.

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Palakkad- Gateway of Kerala

Palakkad is a place where your thoughts find rest. Gentle plains, untouched waters and deep forests add to the charm of Palakkad. This place has a different vibe.  Come home to the untouched plains; sooth your ears with the sound of rustling leaves in the wind; feel the bliss in the forests where the magnificent trees lift her leafy arms to welcome you and trail through the untouched waters if your soul needs peace.

Here you will find the pool of happiness that Palakkad’s beauty has made. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala. Picturesque Palakkad is cradled high in natural beauty and rich biodiversity. It is also known as the land of Palmyras and Paddy fields. It is set in the foot of Western Ghats on the borders of Kerala.

Some popular tourist attractions in Palakkad, Kerala are –

• Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary – It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala. This scenic landscape is rich in flora and fauna. It is a home of leopards, Indian elephants, fresh water crocodiles, birds like Bay Owl, Nilgiri wood pigeon and many others. It also has the first scientifically managed task plantation in the wood.
• Dhoni Falls- 12 km from Palakkad lies the peaceful retreat for nature lovers – Dhoni Village where the beauty of Dhoni falls has been luring tourist for ages. It’s a great picnic spot. Forest around the falls is a mesmerizing sight to behold. You can spot Elephant, tigers, deer and many other animals in the forest. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Kerala.
• Palakkad Fort – Haider Ali of Mysore in 1766 laid the foundation of Palakkad Fort. It is the most popular tourist destination in Palakkad. Temple of Lord Hanuman is located near the fort. There is a museum of archaeology inside the fort which displays some past relics.
• Malampuzha Gardens and Dam- It is located at the foot of Malampuzha Dam. It is a beautiful masterpiece made of Brocken pieces of bangles, tiles plastic cans and tins. It was designed by renowned artist Nek Chand.It is a perfect place to relax with your friends and family. Boating in the gardens of Malampuzha is a blissful experience. It is one of the most visited places in Kerala.
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Idukki – Forest Paradise

Idukki is the crown of Kerala tourism. The charm of Idukki never ceases to attract the tourists. Half of Idukki is covered by forests. It is the perfect place to enjoy with family and friends away from the chaos of cities. Lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, lagoons, cliffs, serene rivers are the crowning glory of this spice garden of Kerala.

Scenic sights and lovely weather makes Idukki a beautiful haunting ground for photographers. Idukki is a heaven for adventure seekers. Bird watching, Trekking, wildlife tour, safaris, Canoeing, Paragliding, biking, camping, and bamboo rafting and hiking creates a vast natural playground for adventure seekers. Holidays in Kerala would be incomplete without visiting Idukki.

Top Tourist Attractions in Idukki, Kerala are-

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary – It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala.  Idukki wildlife Sanctuary is surrounded by Idukki Arch Dam which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala. One can enjoy boat rides here. Kuravan and Kurathi hill across which the dam was built is one of the most scenic sights to behold.  Wild dogs, Bison, Sambar Deer, Jungle cats, Cobra, Viper, Jungle Fowl and many others in the sanctuary is a visual treat to the wildlife enthusiasts.

Hill View Park- It is one of the must visit places in Kerala.  Idukki Arch Dam is located near it which provides wonderful opportunity of boating to enjoy picturesque views. Scenic views of Cheruthoni Dam, lush greenery and beautiful flowers will make your day.  There is a small pond in the corner of the park which is famous for Pedal Boating.

Gavi – It is the most popular scenic and sublime destinations in Idduki. The Hill station of Gavi offers many adventure opportunities like Trekking, Off- Roading, Jungle Safari, Bird Watching and Camping to the adventure seekers. It is one of the leading eco- tourism centres in India according to Alistair International. This place is also famous for boating and tree house stay. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Kerala.

Mangala Devi Temple- In the dense forest of Periyar Tiger Reserve, Mangala Devi Temple stands still in pride for 1000 years. The temple is dedicated to Mangala Devi who is also known as Devi Kannaki. Local believe that this temple was built by the chera King Chenkuttuvan. It is one of the must visit places in Kerala.

Ramakkalnudu – Ramakkalnudu is the highest point in Idukki. It provides trekking opportunities to adventure seekers. Scenic landscapes along with picturesque views makes Ramakkalnudu the popular point of tourist interest in Kerala.

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Wayanad – Sooth your eyes in the serenity of Wayanad

Located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Wayanad is a part of a forest reserve rich in wildlife and spice plantations.

It is a paradise of a misty hills and enchanting rainforests. It is one of the most popular destinations in Kerala. Call it a nature Paradise where the day starts with the chirping of birds.

The gushing of streams is a fascinating site to behold. Majestic hilltops gaze in bliss. Lush green tea factories blow your heart away. This place is a perfect haunt for photographers.

Wayanad is decked with delightful flora and fauna. On the skies and the tree tops you will be mesmerized by the sights and sounds of rare birds.

An adventure on jeep safari and Bamboo rafting on the clean waters of Anoothupuzha is one of the top things to do in Wayanad.  It is a perfect place to experience the bliss of adventure tourism in Kerala.

Top Tourist Attractions of Wayanad, Kerala are –

Eddakal Caves- Eddakal Caves is one of the most popular destinations of Kerala. It is located 1200m above the sea level. It is believed that the caves are formed by the arrows of Luva and Kusha – Son of Lord Rama. Trekking through Ambakuttu Mala will lead you to the ancient charm of Eddakal Caves. It is popular for the cave paintings which is older than 6000 BC.

Pakshipathalam- It is one of the top travel destinations to enjoy your holidays in Kerala.  It is a beautiful site of Wayanad which is 1700m above the sea level. Sights and sounds of emerald green forests, avian species and giant Malabar squirrels are visual treat for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is also a best place for overnight camping.

Neelimala- It is one of the best places to enjoy your holidays in Kerala with your family and friends. It is a picnic spot. Scenic views of Meenmutti waterfall, flowers and plants of all varieties are a fascinating sight to behold. It is also a popular spot for trekking. One can also capture picturesque views of Western Ghats.

Pookot Lake- Pookot is a must visit tourist destination in Kerala. It is 3 km from Vythiri town. This lake is surrounded by emerald green forests and misty hills. Tourists can enjoy the bliss of boating and shopping. It’s a great picnic spot to spend some quality time with family and friends. Sree Narayana Ashram is located near Pookot Lake to refresh your mind and soul.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary- It is ranked 8 th in the list of world’s biodiversity hotspots. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala. Decked with hilly terrains and dense valleys, it’s a heaven for nature lovers. It is a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.  Asian Elephants, Stripped Necked Mongoose, Leopard Cats, Vulture and many more will be waiting to make your holidays in Kerala the best.

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Thiruvananthapuram – Culture Capital of Kerala

How can we miss Thiruvananthapuram from our travel list? Thiruvananthapuram epitomises real elegance in the form of historical monuments, museums, backwater stretches and rich cultural heritage.

Temples of Thiruvananthapuram area a must visit in Kerala to taste the serene drops of spirituality.  Thiruvananthapuram is the most popular destination in Kerala for its water sports, Backwater stretches, Beaches, Temple trails and Ayurvedic health resorts and shopping zones. Adventure activities like Kayaking and Canoeing are the best things to do in Kerala.

Thiruvananthapuram also houses the world’s first magic theme park which is the best place to enjoy with friends and family.Visiting Kerala without enjoying the charms of Thiruvananthapuram would be an incomplete experience of fun and thrill

Some popular tourist attractions in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala are:

Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple- It is one of the top tourist destinations of Kerala.   Dates back to 8 th century Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple is the world’s richest temple. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s Dravidian and Keralian architecture has been luring the tourist for ages.

Akkulam Tourist Village- Akkulam Tourist Village is one of the most popular picnic spots to enjoy your holidays in Kerala with family and friends. It is located near Akkulam Lake. It is also one of the backwater destinations in Kerala. The bliss of boating, children’s park and swimming pool will make your day.

Sree Mahadeva Temple – Sree Mahadeva Temple is one of the must visit places in Kerala. It is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva which dates back to 14 th century.

Kallar – Kallar is a best picnic spot to enjoy your holidays in Kerala. It is very popular for trekking and angling.  Scenic views of Golden Valley and Meenmutti Waterfall and Kallar River are a mesmerizing sight to behold in Kallar.

Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium- It is officially known as Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium. It is the best place to know the mysteries of marine life. Variety of species like clown fish, eels, wrasses, seahorses, box fish and cow fish will be waiting to welcome the tourists in bliss.

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Kottayam – Grandeur in Beauty

With enchanting Western Ghats on the east and the paddy fields of Kuttanad on the west, Kottayam located in central Kerala is an amalgamation of beauty with grandeur. Kottayam is also known as Akshara Nagari (City of letters) because it played a very important role in the development of print media and literature. The city is a hub of Rubber plantations. On your way to the sublime journey to Kerala, don’t forget to tune into the vibes of calmness in Kottayam.

Quaint rivulets, pristine paddy fields, brackish water lagoon is the heart of Kottayam tourism.

Some popular attractions in Kottayam, Kerala are –

Drift wood Museum – Drift wood Museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala. It is the best place for an art lover. The museum houses unique art works made of waste materials. Sculptures made of driftwood deposited by the sea are the main attraction of this museum.

Poonjar Palace – It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kottayam.  Sculptures in the walls of this palace depict warfare stories from Puranas. Extraordinary collection of antiques, palm leaf engravings, furniture, Natraj Statues, weapons is a fascinating sight to behold. Chuttuvillakku is a rock cut lamp carved out of the stone walls of the Sastha temple is the main attraction of this Palace.

Vembanard Lake – It is one of the top travel destinations in Kerala. Houseboat cruise is the one of the top things to do in Kerala. As you move through its narrow canals, small islands of Vembanard Lake, old bungalows, lush green landscapes will blow your heart away. It is also popular for boating and fishing.

Ilaveezha Poonchira – It is a beautiful hill station tucked between three hillocks Mankunnu, Kudayathoormala and Thanippara. You will be mesmerised by the beauty of gigantic hills. Trekking in these hillocks would be the most thrilling experience.

Also Read: Must Visit Places in 10 Days Trip to Kerala

Kumarakom –Magic in the Tranquil Backwaters

Kumarakom is one of the top tourist destinations in Kerala. It is a blissful heaven for bird watchers. Sights and sounds of various types of Birds like Egrets, Darters, Herons, Teals, Waterfowls, Cuckoos and wild duck, Siberian stork will be a fascinating sight to behold.  Houseboat cruise in the backwaters of Kumarakom is one of the top things to do in Kerala.

Dive deep into the mesmerizing beauty of the backwaters where Boating and fishing will give you immense pleasure. Kumarakom is popular for its houseboat cruise. Sightseeing from the houseboats in the backwaters of Kumarakom is the best way to enjoy your holidays in Kerala.

You will be teleported to a paradise of the mysterious mangrove forests, coconut palms, migratory birds and cluster of islands on the eastern banks of Vembanard Lake. Travelling to Kumarakom is one of the most top things to do in Kerala.

Some popular Destinations in Kumarakom, Kerala are –

Subrahmanya Temple and Sree Dharma Sastha Temple- The pavilion of this temple is made out of a single stone. It is considered to be the first temple in Kumarakom, built by the orders of Vaddkkumkore 1800 years ago. Sree Dharma Sastha temple is believed to be 1200 years old. It is one of the must visit places in Kerala.

Aymanam – Aymanam is one of the most popular destinations in Kumarakom. This village is decked with scenic landscapes and heritage home stays. It is an ideal place to enjoy some quality time with your friends and family in the lap of nature away from the chaos of city life.

Kudamaloor – It is located on the banks of the tranquil river of Meenachali.  Vasudevapuram Temple, Eeraveeswaram, Mahadeva temple and Muthiamma church are the major tourist spots in Kudamaloor. Calm vibes, rural ambiance and scenic beauty make Kudamaloor the best place to enjoy your holidays in Kerala.

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Munnar – Blissful Heaven of Kerala

Munnar is the crown of gorgeous Western Ghats. Emerald green landscapes, plantations, scenic sights and pristine waterfalls are the ‘thing of beauty joy forever’. It is one of the most popular destinations in Kerala. Munnar also houses the beautiful Neelkurinji flowers which bloom in every 12 years. Picturesque and enchanted valley of Munnar never ceases to attract tourist. It is cradled with rich flora and fauna.

If the chaos of the city overwhelms you then Munnar is the perfect destination to refresh your mind.

Some popular destinations in and around Munnar, Kerala are –

Pothamedu – Pothamedu is a perfect destination to enjoy trekking and long nature walks.  It also offers beautiful views of tea, coffee and cardamom plantations. It is one of the top places to visit in Munnar.

Devikulam – It is very popular for Sita Devi Lake. It is believed that Lord Rama’s wife Devi Sita took bath in the thermal water spring here. Tourists can enjoy the bliss of trout fishing. It is one of the most popular pilgrim places to visit in Munnar.

Attukal – located between Munnar and Pallivasal. It is one of the perfect destinations for trekking in Kerala. Scenic landscapes and mesmerizing waterfalls adds to the charm of Attukal which makes it a popular destination to enjoy your holidays in Kerala.

Rajamala – Visiting Kerala without enjoying the bliss of Rajamala would be an incomplete experience. It is a home to the endangered species of Nilgiri Tahr.  Enjoying the wildlife along with scenic beauty of Rajamala. It is a perfect haunt for the photographers.

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Kozhikode – Elegance is in Simplicity

Kozhikode (Calicut) was once the most prosperous coastal city in the reign of Zamorin. In 1498 Kozhikode’s shores welcomed the great Portuguese explorer Vasco De Gama. Kozhikode’s charm lies in its simplicity.

Tharavadukal mansions (only few of them survived), Kozhikode beach, Palayam Market and Mohiudeen Masjid are some popular attractions in Kozhikode.  Beauty of serene beaches, historical sites and rivers will elevate your experience to a different level.  Holidays in Kerala is incomplete without witnessing the charms of Kozhikode.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Kozhikode, Kerala

Kallayi – If you want to witness a breathtaking sunset Kallayi is the best place to be.  It is a small village located in the bank of river Kallayi in Kozhikode. It was famous for timber trade in late nineteenth and early twentieth century.

Kozhikode Beach – It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala. It is a perfect place to enjoy some quality time with your friends and family.  Kozhikode beach is popular for sea food, dolphins’ point, lion’s park and old lighthouse. Tune into the vibes of the serenity of Kozhikode beach.

Kokkayam Dam – Kokkayam Dam is very popular for boating and trekking. It is one of the offbeat destinations in Kerala.  Small waterfalls and dense forests add to the charm of Kokkayam Dam. It is the best picnic spot to enjoy with family and friends.

Kadaluni Bird Sanctuary – It is the best spot to rejuvenate your mind and soul. Rare avian species, scenic islands, picturesque hills add to the charm of Kadaluni Bird Sanctuary. It is a heaven sent blessing for nature lovers. Kadaluni River flows through Arabian Sea are a mesmerizing sight to behold. It is a bird watchers paradise. Seagull, Odd Otter, sand pipers and many more birds blow your heart away. It is one of the most popular destinations in Kerala.

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Vagamon – Ode to the Grassy Hills

Let’s go to a place full of refreshing vibes, stunning grassy hills, cascading waterfalls, rose gardens, delightful tea estates, pine forests and awesome Spice plantations. Vagamon is a treasure trove of delightful vistas for nature lovers and honeymoon couples. Visiting here would overpower your senses completely. It is one of the best hill stations to visit in Kerala. Here nature will smile on you as the glimpse of breathtaking and soothing vistas of picturesque landscapes will be of unequalled loveliness. For adventure lovers it is a paradise. Adventure enthusiasts must indulge in thrilling activities like trekking, mountaineering, paragliding and rock climbing etc.

Top Things to Do in Vagamon, Kerala

• Sightseeing – Explore the scenic wonders of this beautiful Hill Station called Vagamon where nature’s melodious rhythm will blow your heart away. Some of the best places to visit in Vagamon are – Marmala Waterfall, Kurisumala, Barren Hills, Thangal Para, Pine Hill and Murugan Mala etc.
• Adventure Activities- Soothe your adventurous soul by tasting the pleasure of thrill. Indulge in adventurous sports like Trekking, mountaineering, Rock climbing and Paragliding.
• Picnic Time – Picnic at Vagamon Lake and Vagamon Falls will be one of the most fun-filled activities to do here. The delightful vistas offered by this place are magical.

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

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Thekkady – Fine Tune Your Spirit

When it comes to Thekkady , the images of hills, emerald spice plantations, and Majestic Elephants pop into mind. It houses verdant forests which are known by the name of Periyar forest and it is one of the most popular wildlife reserves of India. Its breathtaking backdrop will definitely fine tune your toil weary spirit. Bamboo Rafting, Boat Safari, Elephant Safari are some of the greatest delights this place has to offer. The natural wilderness of Thekkady is a place not less than a paradise.

Top Things to Do in Thekkady, Kerala

• Boating – Boating at Periyar Lake is a must not miss tourist activity in Thekkady. The lush greenery and animals playing in the water is a sight to behold.
• Hiking and Bamboo Rafting – Taste the thrill of adventure by indulging in Hiking and Bamboo Rafting at Periyar wildlife Sanctuary. The deep dense forests are waiting for you.
• Mangala Devi Temple- Amidst Periyar wildlife Sanctuary, the divine Mangala Devi Temple will shower its divine grace to you. You must visit this serene temple.
• Trekking – Enchanting trekking trails to Gavi will make your day. Spend some time amidst the tranquil nature.
• Elephant Rides – The most exciting activity is an Elephant Ride in Periyar Tiger Reserve. Try it once, it’s a different experience.
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Kovalam – Crescent-Shaped Shallow Water Beaches

Since 1930, Kovalam, which is about 18 kilometres from Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram, has been a popular beach vacation spot. It was noticed when Her Highness Halcyon Castle was created by Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bai, Queen of Travancore.

In the local language, Kovalam means “coconut,” which is what this region is known for and how it got its name. Kovalam, an area with international recognition, is a well-known vacation spot in India for travellers from all over the world.

From relaxing on beaches and doing adventurous water activities in the Arabian sea to experiencing the authentic cuisine of Kerala in homestays and a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa, Kovalam is an ideal destination for people who want to indulge in yoga, meditation and cultural pursuits with lots of adventure sports and foods.

Popular Tourist Attractions in and around Kovalam, Kerala

Lighthouse Beach – The largest and the most popular beach in Kovalam, Lighthouse Beach is named after a 30-metre-high lighthouse, which is located on the southern end of the beach. The lighthouse houses an observatory that you can reach by ascending 142 steps or availing the lift. The observatory provides breathtaking panoramic views of the beach along the Arabian coast. You can also see the famous Beemapally mosque and Poovar from the lighthouse.

Hawa Beach – Located just about 1.5 kilometres from Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach is an untouched beach in India and that’s why it is a perfect destination to spend time peacefully. The beach is a natural wonder; looks like a boundary between the land of Kovalam and the sea. The clear blue sky along with the water contrast with the glowing sandy beach that is dotted with green palm trees here.

Samudra Beach – Samudra Beach is the third beach among the three famous beaches in Kovalam, where the other two are Lighthouse and Hawa Beach. The beach remains a hidden gem as there is a ridge between the north and south coastline. And, because of the ridge, the privacy and natural beauty of the place have remained untouched. There are several homestays off the beach where you can get authentic Kerala vibes by staying and tasting the food.

Veli Tourist Village – The village is located around 12 kilometres from Kovalam City where Veli Lake connects with the Arabian Sea. A perfect place amidst nature for spending time with family and friends. People can also experience several boating activities here.

Karamana River – Kerala’s one of the finest backwaters where you can spend your leisure time by staying in a houseboat. The verdant environ beside the river, the fields full of rice, vegetables and pepper and several bridges over the river will make your stay memorable for life. You can also enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the Karamana River.

Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave Temple – Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave Temple is one of the earliest temples found in Kerala. Built in the 8th century, this temple is about 17 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram City. It is maintained under the Archaeological Survey of India and houses an idol of Tripurantaka (Lord Shiva) with a bow and arrow along with Goddess Parvati.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple – Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest sites of worship in the world, is an architectural wonder to see.  The temple’s grounds are enclosed by high walls and a gopura from the 16th century.  Lord Vishnu is the temple’s main deity (Padmanabhaswamy). You will discover Padmanabhaswamy’s yogic position of eternal sleep here. Padmanabhaswamy is the guardian god of the Travancore royal dynasty.

• Best Honeymoon Destinations in Kerala

Kannur – City of Looms and Lores

Popularly known as ‘The Crown of Kerala,’ Kannur is a beach town along the Malabar coast, while the backdrop of the town is created by the hills of the Western Ghats. The rustic charm of the town looks evergreen and it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Kerala. The place is famous in the world for its flourishing handloom industry and a ritualistic folk artform, called Theyyam.

Kannur, the ancient trading hub in South India, is located south of Mangalore and north of Calicut and Cochin. You will be amused by spotting the colonial structures here that feature Kannur’s rich legacy in art and culture.

Apart from the beaches and hills, you will be mesmerised by the spectacular views of the sparkling waterfall here, such as Palchuram, Alakapuri, Meenmutty and Kudiyanmala.

Kannur is home to India’s one and only drive-in beach, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach. The city is full of a laid-back beach vibe that never disappoints any traveller be it a beach lover, nature lover, thrill seeker or culture explorer.

Popular Tourist Attractions in and around Kannur, Kerala

Payyambalam Beach – The most appropriate weekend destination to unwind after a hectic working week. You have to cross a small bridge to reach the beach. Besides relaxing in peaceful nature, you can also try some water activities here like swimming, boating and others. It spreads along four kilometres and looks like a paradise on a sunny day.

Muzhappilangad Beach – Being the only drive-in beach in Kerala as well as India, it attracts lots of visitors all year long. In addition to being one of Kannur’s cleanest beaches and the longest drive-in beach in all of India, it is also one of the best drive-in beaches that the entire Asian continent has to offer. Go out and engage in some paragliding, parasailing, powerboating, or other water sports to satisfy your need for excitement.

St Angelo Fort – The compelling history and fascinating tales that St. Angelos Fort has to tell are largely responsible for its fame. This fort was a target for numerous dynasties, both domestic and foreign, and it has been the scene of many terrible conflicts in the struggle to take it. You can practically visualise the conflicts that this imposing stronghold has witnessed as you walk around its walls. You may tour the barracks, an old chapel, and the gravestones of the men who died defending the fort. Also visit Kannur’s first lighthouse, which stands next to the architecture.

Palakkayam Thattu – A hill station, located around 52 kilometres from the main city, perched in the verdant Western Ghats at a height of 3,500 feet, Palakkayam Thattu is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Kannur. This hilltop is one of the most well-liked trekking locations in the south because of its breathtaking vista. The entire ascent to Palakayyam Thattu is peaceful and unaffected by the stresses of the outside world, wrapped in the lap of nature.

Ezhimala – A place famous for its religious values among Hindus and Buddhists, Ezhimala is a 286-metre-high hillock located along a pristine beach. As per legend, Ezhimala got its name from two words ‘ezhu’ and ‘mala’ which mean seven and peaks, respectively. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Hanuman was believed to have dropped the seven peaks here while carrying Sanjeevani for Lord Lakshman. It is also believed that Lord Buddha once graced the peaks with his holy presence. Apart from the religious values, one of the main tourist destinations in Ezhimala is NAVAC (The Naval Academy), which was inaugurated in January 2009. The academy is the largest of its kind in Asia.

Kasargod – Hidden Tranquility

Kasargod is a beautiful amalgamation of Different religions and cultures. Stunning Forts, lofty hills, verdant backwaters, temples and pristine beaches, it will never cease to surprise you with its immense beauty. It is decked with coir and handloom industries. Forts of Kasargod will give you the insights of its rich and glorious past. You will get multicultural experience here. People here speak 7 languages. It is one of the must visit destinations to visit in Kerala.

Top Things to Do in Kasargod, Kerala

• Ananthapura Lake Temple – Visit this stunning temple surrounded by a beautiful Lake. It is said that there is a crocodile in a lake which protects the temple.
• Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary- Experience the exotic wildlife along with the soothing wilderness.
• Nileshwar -Visit Nileshwar for cultural experience in Kasargod.
• Valiyaparamba – Enchanting Backwaters will call you and you will not resist its charm.
• Manjeshwar – The pilgrimage Town of Kasargod will take you to serene temples and mosques.
• Shopping – Explore coir products, shell products and other unique artifacts to satisfy your shopper soul.

Varkala- Where Cliffs Embrace the Coast

Situated on the coastline of Kerala, Varkala is a captivating blend of cliffs, beaches, and rich cultural sites, making it one of the must-visit places in the state.

Popular Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Varkala

Varkala Beach and Cliff:  Often referred to as the ‘Papanasham Beach’, Varkala Beach is renowned for its golden sands juxtaposed against the imposing red laterite cliffs. The cliffs are a geologist’s marvel and provide an exceptional backdrop for sunsets. Along the cliff edge, there’s a paved pathway lined with cafes, shops, and coconut groves, allowing tourists to take leisurely strolls and soak in the panoramic sea views.

Anjengo Fort:  A remnant of the colonial era, this fort showcases a blend of Kerala’s history and natural beauty. Surrounded by lakes and backwaters, it’s a serene spot that provides a glimpse into Kerala’s past.

Sivagiri Mutt:  Founded by the famous sage and social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru, Sivagiri Mutt is a pilgrimage center that attracts thousands annually. The serene atmosphere and architectural splendor of this site make it a must-visit when in Varkala.

Other Important Kerala Tourism Links

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• Kerala Tourism Guide

Mararikulam- Coastal Kerala’s Hidden Gem

Mararikulam is a quaint village boasting one of Kerala’s most pristine beaches. It’s the perfect escape for those looking to experience Kerala’s coastal beauty in a tranquil setting.

Popular Attractions & Things to Do in Mararikulam

Marari Beach:  This is undoubtedly Mararikulam’s crown jewel. Unlike many other popular beaches, Marari Beach retains a rustic charm. Its vast stretches of golden sand, fringed by swaying palms and dotted with traditional fishing boats, create a postcard-perfect setting. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, either by taking a gentle walk or indulging in Ayurvedic massages.

St. Andrew’s Basilica Arthunkal: Located a short drive from Mararikulam, this historic church is a testament to the region’s religious harmony and architectural grandeur. It’s particularly famous for the Arthunkal Perunnal, a grand feast held annually.

Local Village Tours: Mararikulam is not just about the beach; the nearby villages offer tourists a chance to witness the traditional lifestyles of Kerala’s coastal communities. Participate in coir-making workshops or watch skilled fishermen at work for a richer experience.

Gavi: Nature’s Best-Kept Secret

Gavi, nestled in the Western Ghats, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and one of the must-visit destinations in Kerala for those in search of tranquility.

Popular Attractions & Things to Do in Gavi

Wildlife Watching: Gavi is part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, and it’s teeming with diverse fauna. From the majestic Indian elephants to the elusive tigers, Gavi’s dense forests are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Opt for a guided safari to maximize your chances of spotting these creatures.

Camping:  Gavi offers numerous camping sites amidst its lush forests. Imagine setting up camp under a canopy of stars, surrounded by the harmonious sounds of nature – it’s an experience that is bound to stay with you for a lifetime.

Cardamom Plantations:  Kerala is famed for its spices, and Gavi is home to vast cardamom plantations. Wander through these aromatic fields and learn about the cultivation and processing of this coveted spice.

Sabarimala View Point: Gavi offers an exceptional view of the famous Sabarimala temple, especially from the vantage point. It’s a serene spot that allows one to witness both the cultural and natural beauty of Kerala.

Let us Find Out What to Expect in Different Seasons in Kerala

Expectations from Summer in Kerala

The summer season is different to the people coming to Kerala because it is different from other Indian states. The summer in Kerala starts from February with temperature up to 35-degree Celsius but compared to other Indian states it is cooler. Here the high ranges have cool and pleasing climate throughout the year. This time the pristine beaches and scenic landscapes of the Western Ghats will fine tune your spirit with refreshing vibes and healing touch of nature. Summer in Kerala is very popular for temple festivals. Between the months of February and March Attukal Pongala is celebrated which is one of the most popular temple festivals of Kerala. Women from all the states attend this festival at Thiruvananthapuram to pay their respect to goddess Kannaki.

During this time, Kerala pleases people with its lush greenery and backwater tourism. The houseboats are ready to take you to the scenic narrow canals and lush vegetation through pristine backwaters. Also try Sambharam, it is one of the most popular summer drinks of Kerala made of curd, green chillies, ginger, curry leaves and lemon leaves. The culture and cuisine of Kerala offers variety to the tourist.

In the month of April Thrissur Pooram is celebrated with great pomp and this vibrant temple festival showcases the musical heritage of the state. Also, the festival of Vishu this time marks the new year for the people in Kerala. People celebrate this festival with lights and fire crackers.

May and June bring the bliss of Wildlife tourism in Kerala. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers awesome Wildlife Safari, elephant ride, boat rides, jungle camping, trekking and nature walks. The rich flora and fauna of the country will take you to a different world where the silence of nature will sync with the calm rhythm of your heart.

Expectations from Monsoon in Kerala

Kerala, the god’s own country is different because you will see rain pitter patters throughout the year here. You will be amazed to know Kerala enjoys two monsoon seasons- Southwest Monsoon and Northeast monsoon. The main rainy season in Kerala starts from the month of June and ends in August. The month of June – August is a time for Southwest monsoon in Kerala which is known as Edavappathi.

During this time the natural vistas of Kerala resemble the garden of Eden.  In the months of July and September, thrilling boat races at the backwaters of Kerala will take your breath away. Some of the most popular boat races are the Nehru Trophy Boat Race and Champakulam Moolam Boat Race and the most fascinating part of the race is the snake boat known as Chundan Vallams. The festive vibes of Onam is a must not miss if you are coming here in the months of August, it lasts till September. But this festival is the soul of Kerala, it is the most popular harvest festival of Kerala celebrated everywhere in the state with great zeal.

Also, the weather of Kerala is so soothing in monsoon that Ayurvedic massage is the best thing to enjoy to refresh your mind, body and soul. Honeymoon couples consider it the best time to visit in Kerala. The magical waterfalls flowed with all their might during this time, the hill stations of Kerala dipped in lush greenery. This is also the best time for a wonderful stay experience in traditional tree houses surrounded by soothing hills, valleys, waterfalls and lakes to become one with nature.

One must try Parippu Vada and hot cup of Tea, it is a must if you are enjoying the monsoon in Kerala. Apart from that some of the most popular monsoon snacks to enjoy in Kerala are Pazhampori, Arikadukka and Appam etc.

Expectations from Winter in Kerala

Winter season in Kerala starts from the end of November and ends in the middle of February. This season is ideal to enjoy the best of Kerala tourism. From misty hill stations, serene beaches, thrilling adventure activities, vibrant festivals and exotic wildlife. You can enjoy something of everything in Kerala during this time.

During winters, there is less rainfall in Kerala which makes it pleasant for sightseeing. The most prominent festivals Christmas and New Year keep the joy and enthusiasm intact throughout the year.  These are the most popular festivals celebrated everywhere in Kerala in winter. The churches and markets of Kerala are decorated in a grand manner and people celebrate these festivals with great fervor.

Tourists from all across the globe enjoy houseboat cruise tours of Alleppey and Kumarakom during this time. The bliss of Yoga and Ayurvedic massage refreshes the toil- weary soul. This is also the best time to enjoy the beauty of emerald green Tea Estates of Munnar. Moreover, if you include the tour of the lush green paddy fields, coir manufacturing industries, coconut leaf weaving, fish and village markets, you will have one of the most memorable winter vacations in Kerala.

Exotic Wildlife Safaris in Kerala during winters is a must not miss. There are 16 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala and 5 national parks which boast of exquisite flora and fauna. It’s time for a wonderful bird watching session as numerous winged visitors arrive in the state. You will behold greater flamingos, Pelicans, Black- tailed Godwit, Garganeys, Dendrocygna Javanica and Gulls etc. Also behold the beauty of Neelakurinji flowers which bloom every 12 years in Eravikulam. It is the best tourist place in Kerala to visit in Winters.

During winters try lip smacking winter delicious cuisines of Kerala like Malabar Biryani, Erachi Ularthiyathu, Thrissur Avial, Palada Payasam and Kozhi Porichathu etc.

Moreover, November to January in Kerala is filled with numerous exciting events and festivals which will make your Kerala Holiday tour one of the best tours ever. Some of the must not miss festivals and events to enjoy in Winters are Kanathur Nalvar Bhoothasthanam, Cochin Carnival, Perumthitta Tharavad Kottamkuzhy, Vasantholsavam Flower Festival, Adoor Gajamela. Kerala Utsavam Folklore Festival, Chittur Konganpada and Pariyanampetta Pooram etc.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. if thrill, excitement and adventure is my call then what should i do in god’s own country – kerala.

To experience the bliss of thrill, excitement and adventure apart from the scenic sights and lush green landscapes of God’s own country, you would like to indulge in some of the best adventure activities of Kerala-

• Parasailing
• Paragliding
• Wildlife safari

Q. I want to enjoy the blissful togetherness with my beloved along with the sublime landscapes of Kerala away from the chaos of the city for my Honeymoon. Where should I go?

If you would love to wander through Kerala’s hidden wilderness and scenic beauty with your beloved. You would definitely visit:

• Pathiramanal

Published: 10 Aug, 2023 | Last Updated:  09 Feb, 2024

About the author

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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37 Places to Visit near Kochi for the Perfect Weekend Getaway

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Weekend Getaways from Kochi | Weekend Trips Around Kochi

Here is the list of 36 37 places to visit near kochi for the perfect weekend getaway, 1. alleppey, kerala - backwaters, beaches and lagoons - venice of the east.

Known For : Houseboats in Alleppey Alleppey Backwaters Kuttanad

Alleppey, often referred to as the 'Venice of the East,' boasts a labyrinth of shimmering backwaters, lush paddy fields, and serene coconut groves. Its houseboat cruises offer an unparalleled experience, letting travelers glide on tranquil waters while witnessing the daily life of local communities. Just a short drive from Kochi, this enchanting destination provides an immersive escape into Kerala's unique culture and natural beauty. Things to Do: Houseboat cruises, visit the Alappuzha Beach, explore the Kuttanadu paddy fields, and attend the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. How to Reach: Easily accessible by road from Kochi (approx. 53 km), nearest railway station: Alappuzha. Ideal Duration: 2-3 days. Places to Stay: Houseboats, lakeside resorts, and budget-friendly homestays.

Distance from Kochi: 73 km

Best Time: June to March

37 Alleppey Attractions

2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu - Queen of the Nilgiris

Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty

Ooty, situated amidst the serene Nilgiri hills, offers a refreshing contrast to Kochi's tropical coastal climate with its cool temperatures and misty landscapes. Known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations', Ooty captivates visitors with its vast tea gardens, colonial heritage, and picturesque valleys. Just a few hours' drive from Kochi, this hill station serves as an idyllic escape from the city's hustle and bustle, making it a preferred getaway destination. Things to Do: Boating in Ooty Lake, exploring the Botanical Gardens, trekking to Doddabetta Peak, and visiting the Tea Museum. How to Reach: Nearest airport is Coimbatore (approx. 88 km); well-connected by road and the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Ideal Duration: 3-4 days. Places to Stay: Heritage hotels, hilltop resorts, and cozy homestays.

Distance from Kochi: 265 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

43 Ooty Attractions

3. Varkala, Kerala - The hidden place to visit near Kochi

Known For : Varkala Cliff Water Sports in Varkala Varkala Beach

Varkala, a pristine coastal town near Kochi, is famed for its dramatic cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea, creating an ambiance distinct from other Kerala beaches. The town is not just a beach-lover's paradise but also a spiritual hub with the 2,000-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple. Its unique blend of natural beauty and rich heritage makes Varkala a must-visit destination from Kochi. Things to Do: Relax on Varkala Beach, visit Janardanaswamy Temple, indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, and explore the Varkala Cliff. How to Reach: Well-connected by road from Kochi (approx. 176 km); nearest railway station: Varkala Sivagiri. Ideal Duration : 2-3 days. Places to Stay: Beachside resorts, cliff-top hotels, and budget-friendly guesthouses.

Distance from Kochi: 174 km

Best Time: October to February

26 Varkala Attractions

4. Kovalam, Kerala - Beaches, Ayurveda and Shopping

Known For : Kovalam Beach Vizhinjam Lighthouse Aazhimala Shiva Temple

Kovalam, a short distance from Kochi, stands out with its crescent-shaped beaches and swaying coconut groves, offering an idyllic seaside experience. Known for its lighthouses and rocky promontories, the town attracts both serenity seekers and water sports enthusiasts. The confluence of cultural performances, Ayurvedic treatments, and golden sands makes Kovalam a top destination near Kochi. Things to Do: Sunbathing at Lighthouse Beach, surfing at Hawah Beach, Ayurvedic massages, and cultural shows. How to Reach : Well-connected by road from Kochi (approx. 212 km); nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport. Ideal Duration : 2-3 days. Places to Stay : Beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, and local guesthouses.

Distance from Kochi: 217 km

Best Time: September to March

33 Kovalam Attractions

Kochi Travel Packages

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Shimmering munnar, kochi & kumarakom package - houseboat stay, kerala tour packages 7 days - family edition, kerala tour package - kochi and munnar.

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5. Idukki, Kerala - Eco-village in the western ghats

Known For : Hill View Park Idukki Arch Dam Kulamavu Dam

Idukki, nestled in the Western Ghats near Kochi, is a verdant paradise known for its captivating hillscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and spice plantations. The district's arch dam, one of Asia's largest, and the panoramic views from spots like Kalvari Mount make Idukki a nature lover's delight. Its blend of serene valleys and rich biodiversity makes it an unmissable gem close to Kochi. Things to Do: Visit the Idukki Dam, explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, trek in the hills, and tour spice plantations. How to Reach: Well-connected by road from Kochi (approx. 97 km). Ideal Duration: 2-4 days. Places to Stay: Hilltop resorts, eco-lodges, and traditional homestays.

Distance from Kochi: 134 km

38 Idukki Attractions

6. Kumarakom, Kerala - Backwaters bay, small islands - Little Venice

Known For : Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Kumarakom Backwaters Thanneermukkom Bund

Kumarakom, situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake close to Kochi, offers a mesmerizing tapestry of mangrove forests, emerald paddy fields, and enchanting backwaters. This tranquil paradise is a hub for houseboat cruises, providing an intimate experience of Kerala's unique water-bound lifestyle. The presence of the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary further accentuates its appeal, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Things to Do: Houseboat cruises on Vembanad Lake, bird-watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and Ayurvedic spa treatments. How to Reach : Well-connected by road from Kochi (approx. 50 km). Ideal Duration : 2-3 days. Places to Stay : Luxury lakeside resorts, traditional houseboats, and serene homestays.

Distance from Kochi: 64 km

Best Time: October - February

18 Kumarakom Attractions

7. Munnar, Kerala - Tea Gardens, Lakes and Pretty little hill-station

Known For : Echo Point, Munnar Atukkad Waterfalls Munnar Tea Plantations

Munnar, a hill station close to Kochi, captivates visitors with its sprawling tea gardens, undulating terrains, and mist-clad hills. This former summer resort of the British is characterized by its cool climate, exotic flora and fauna, and scenic viewpoints. The confluence of picturesque landscapes, colonial bungalows, and winding lanes makes Munnar a quintessential retreat in Kerala. Things to Do: Stroll in the tea estates, visit Eravikulam National Park, and explore the Attukal Waterfalls. How to Reach : Well-connected by road from Kochi (approx. 130 km). Ideal Duration : 3-4 days. Places to Stay: Hillside resorts, colonial-style bungalows, and cozy homestays.

Distance from Kochi: 124 km

Best Time: September to May

51 Munnar Attractions

8. Coorg, Karnataka - The Scotland of India

Known For : Abbey Falls Raja's Seat Mandalpatti

Coorg, often referred to as the 'Scotland of India,' is a verdant paradise replete with lush plantations, cascading waterfalls, and misty hills. This coffee country, situated in the Western Ghats, is renowned for its rich culture, distinct Kodava traditions, and mouthwatering local cuisine. The aroma of fresh coffee beans, vibrant green landscapes, and the melody of chirping birds make Coorg an irresistible escape from the hustle of city life. Things to Do : Visit the Abbey Falls, explore the Dubare Elephant Camp, and savor the local cuisine. How to Reach : Best accessed by road from Kochi, with a distance of approximately 375 km. Ideal Duration : 3-5 days. Places to Stay : Plantation stays, luxury resorts, and traditional homestays.

Distance from Kochi: 368 km

Best Time: October to March

37 Coorg Attractions

9. Athirapally Falls

Athirapally Falls, often dubbed the 'Niagara of India,' cascades majestically, offering a breathtaking spectacle amidst dense forests and rich biodiversity. Located on the Chalakudy River, this natural marvel is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The thundering sound of the waterfall combined with the tranquil environment provides a rejuvenating escape from Kochi. Things to Do: Trek to the base of the falls, bird-watching, and explore the nearby Vazhachal Forest Gardens. How to Reach : Easily accessible by road, located approximately 80 km from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1-2 days. Places to Stay: Resorts overlooking the falls, eco-lodges, and budget-friendly hotels.

10. Thekkady, Kerala - Periyar-India's Largest Tiger Reserve

Known For : Periyar National Park Periyar Tiger Trail Bamboo Rafting in Thekkady

Thekkady, nestled in the Western Ghats, is synonymous with wildlife and nature, boasting the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. With its dense evergreen forests and rich fauna, this destination offers a unique chance to observe wildlife up close from boat cruises on Periyar Lake. The intoxicating aroma of spices wafting from nearby plantations adds to Thekkady's allure, making it a sensory delight for travelers. Things to Do: Boat cruises in Periyar Lake, wildlife spotting, spice plantation tours, and bamboo rafting. How to Reach: Approximately 140 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2-3 days. Places to Stay : Jungle lodges, resorts near the sanctuary, and plantation stays.

Distance from Kochi: 157 km

24 Thekkady Attractions

11. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu - The Princess of Hill Stations

Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls

Kodaikanal, often referred to as the 'Princess of Hill Stations,' stands majestically in the Western Ghats, draped in mist and endowed with a pleasant climate. Its terraced gardens, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls create a picturesque setting, drawing tourists in search of tranquility and nature's charm. The town's winding pathways, lined with eucalyptus trees and vibrant blossoms, further elevate the enchanting hill station experience. Things to Do : Boating in Kodaikanal Lake, exploring the Pillar Rocks, and trekking in the dense pine forests. How to Reach : Approximately 295 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration : 3-4 days. Places to Stay: Colonial-style bungalows, hilltop resorts, and quaint guesthouses.

Distance from Kochi: 293 km

35 Kodaikanal Attractions

12. Cherai Beach, Kochi

Cherai Beach, with its golden sands and serene backwaters on the other side, offers a unique blend of sea and lagoon, making it a haven for beach enthusiasts. Located on the northern tip of Vypin Island, this beach is renowned for its tranquil setting, punctuated by occasional sightings of dolphins. Its proximity to Kochi combined with its picturesque landscape makes Cherai a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Things to Do: Sunbathing, dolphin-watching, and exploring the nearby fishing villages. How to Reach : Approximately 25 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1 day. Places to Stay: Beachfront resorts, homestays, and budget-friendly hotels.

Distance from Kochi: 26 km

13. Kottayam, Kerala

Known For : Kottathavalam Nadukani Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple

Kottayam, set against the backdrop of the Western Ghats, is a harmonious blend of nature, history, and culture. Renowned for its ancient temples, churches, and its role as a center for literature and education, Kottayam offers a tranquil escape from the city's bustle. The region's rubber plantations and shimmering backwaters further add to its picturesque charm. Things to Do: Explore the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, take a boat ride in Vembanad Lake, and visit the ancient St. Mary's Church. How to Reach: Approximately 60 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2 days. Places to Stay: Heritage homes, lakeside resorts, and local guesthouses.

Distance from Kochi: 66 km

Best Time: September to February

31 Kottayam Attractions

14. Thrissur, Kerala - A Keralan Festival

Known For : Athirapally Falls Vadakummnathan temple Thrissur Pooram 2024

Thrissur, often hailed as Kerala's cultural capital, brims with vibrant festivals, historic temples, and rich traditions. Famous for hosting the grand Thrissur Pooram festival, the city offers an insightful peek into the state's deep-rooted cultural heritage. Its architectural marvels and lush green landscapes further amplify the city's allure, making it a must-visit destination near Kochi. Things to Do : Attend the Thrissur Pooram festival, visit Vadakkumnathan Temple, and explore the Kerala Kalamandalam. How to Reach: Approximately 80 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2-3 days. Places to Stay: Traditional inns, city hotels, and heritage homes.

Distance from Kochi: 78 km

Best Time: October - February; April, May

40 Thrissur Attractions

15. Vazhachal Falls, Thrissur

Vazhachal Falls, situated near Thrissur, presents a stunning spectacle of cascading waters against the backdrop of lush greenery, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts. Located close to the famous Athirapally Falls, Vazhachal provides a more serene and less crowded alternative for those seeking tranquility. Its untouched beauty combined with the melodic sound of flowing water makes it an idyllic escape from urban life. Things to Do: Nature walks, picnicking by the falls, and bird-watching. How to Reach: Approximately 80 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: Half-day to a full day. Places to Stay : Resorts and homestays near Athirapally, given its proximity to Vazhachal Falls.

Distance from Kochi: 69 km

16. Guruvayur, Kerala - Lord Krishna's home in God's own country

Known For : Guruvayur Temple Punnathurkotta Elephant Palace Mammiyoor Shiva Temple

Guruvayur, renowned for its historic Sri Krishna Temple, is a spiritual epicenter that attracts countless devotees and tourists alike. With its deep-rooted traditions, vibrant festivals, and mesmerizing rituals, the town offers a unique insight into Kerala's rich religious tapestry. Beyond spirituality, Guruvayur's elephant sanctuary and local arts further enrich the visitor's experience. Things to Do: Attend rituals at the Guruvayur Temple, visit the Elephant Sanctuary (Punnathur Kotta), and watch traditional cultural performances. How to Reach: Approximately 93 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1-2 days. Places to Stay: Pilgrim hotels, traditional lodges, and budget-friendly guesthouses.

Distance from Kochi: 86 km

12 Guruvayur Attractions

17. Kuttanad

Kuttanad, often termed the 'Rice Bowl of Kerala,' is a mesmerizing stretch of backwater channels, lakes, and paddy fields. With its below sea level farms, the region offers a unique agricultural landscape, interspersed with traditional houseboats and canoes. This water-locked region is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature, making it a perfect tranquil getaway near Kochi. Things to Do: Houseboat cruises, village tours, and savoring local delicacies on floating restaurants. How to Reach : Approximately 53 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2 days. Places to Stay: Traditional houseboats, lakeside resorts, and local homestays.

Distance from Kochi: 79 km

18. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu - The Land of Seven Forests.

Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud

Yercaud, nestled in the Shevaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, is often called the 'Jewel of the South,' known for its cool climate and lush green landscapes. This hill station is adorned with orange groves, coffee plantations, and dense forests, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers. Its tranquil lakes, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints make Yercaud a captivating escape not far from Kochi. Things to Do : Boating in Yercaud Lake, exploring the Botanical Garden, and trekking to Pagoda Point. How to Reach: Approximately 385 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2-3 days. Places to Stay: Hillside resorts, colonial bungalows, and budget-friendly hotels.

Distance from Kochi: 370 km

Best Time: October to June

20 Yercaud Attractions

19. Vaikom, Kottayam

Vaikom, sitting on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, is a serene town rich in history and culture. Renowned for the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, one of the oldest in Kerala, this destination offers an enriching spiritual experience along with its picturesque natural beauty. The tranquil backwaters, traditional boat races, and age-old rituals make Vaikom a quaint yet alluring choice near Kochi. Things to Do: Attend temple rituals, explore the backwaters, and witness the famed Vaikom boat races. How to Reach: Approximately 33 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1-2 days. Places to Stay: Riverside resorts, local guesthouses, and heritage homestays.

Distance from Kochi: 34 km

20. Thommankuthu Falls, Idukki

Thommankuthu Falls in Idukki is a mesmerizing multi-step waterfall, set amidst the verdant forests of the Western Ghats. The cascading waters, surrounded by lush greenery, offer a picturesque setting that's both refreshing and rejuvenating. Its pristine beauty and the accompanying nature trails make Thommankuthu Falls a must-visit spot for those seeking natural wonders near Kochi. Things to Do : Nature walks, trekking in the forest, and picnicking near the falls. How to Reach : Approximately 80 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1 day. Places to Stay : Forest lodges, eco-friendly resorts, and budget accommodations in nearby Idukki town.

21. Keezharkuthu Falls, Idukki - Rock climbing, mountaineering place to visit near Kochi

Keezharkuthu Falls, also known as the 'Rainbow Waterfalls,' cascade gracefully amidst the dense forests of Idukki, creating a visual and auditory treat for visitors. The region, enriched with herbal flora and fauna, becomes a hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering trekking, mountaineering, and camping opportunities. Its untouched splendor and the gushing melody of waters make it a serene retreat from the urban cacophony. Things to Do: Trekking, camping, rock climbing, and bird-watching. How to Reach : Approximately 60 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration : 1-2 days. Places to Stay : Eco-lodges, forest camps, and homestays in nearby regions.

Distance from Kochi: 94 km

22. Peechi Dam, Thrissur

Peechi Dam in Thrissur, constructed on the Manali River, is a tranquil spot that doubles as a water reservoir and a prominent picnic spot. With its picturesque surroundings of lush greenery and rich biodiversity, it also houses the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The calm waters, boating opportunities, and serene setting make it a delightful escape from city life. Things to Do: Boating, bird-watching, and exploring the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. How to Reach : Approximately 85 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1 day. Places to Stay: Resorts and guesthouses in Thrissur, given its proximity to Peechi Dam.

Distance from Kochi: 91 km

23. Marari Beach, Alleppey

Marari Beach in Alleppey is a pristine shoreline that epitomizes the unspoiled beauty of Kerala's coast, with its golden sands and swaying palm trees. Renowned for its tranquil ambiance, this beach provides an idyllic setting, away from commercialized tourist spots, making it perfect for those seeking relaxation and solitude. The serene sunsets and local fishing village experiences further enhance Marari's charm, offering a genuine taste of coastal Kerala. Things to Do: Sunbathing, village walks, and sampling local seafood delicacies. How to Reach : Approximately 60 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration : 1-2 days. Places to Stay : Beachfront resorts, homestays, and eco-lodges.

24. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Munnar

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, located in Munnar, stands as a testament to the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats, making it a paradise for ornithologists and nature lovers. Named after the legendary ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, the sanctuary hosts a myriad of both endemic and migratory bird species, set against the backdrop of verdant greenery and undulating terrains. The melodic chirping, guided treks, and pristine ambiance make it an unmissable spot near Kochi. Things to Do: Bird-watching, guided nature walks, and photography. How to Reach : Approximately 130 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1-2 days. Places to Stay: Forest lodges, eco-resorts, and guesthouses in Munnar.

Distance from Kochi: 65 km

25. Bhoothathankettu Dam

Bhoothathankettu Dam, enveloped by verdant forests and undulating hills, offers picturesque landscapes that reflect the natural splendor of Kerala. Local legends say that this 'Monster Fort' dam was built overnight by spirits and demons, adding a layer of mystery to its allure. The dam and its surrounding areas provide ample opportunities for trekking, boating, and bird-watching, making it a popular spot near Kochi. Things to Do: Boating, trekking, and exploring the adjacent Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. How to Reach: Approximately 50 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1 day. Places to Stay: Local guesthouses, homestays, and resorts in the nearby regions.

Distance from Kochi: 63 km

26. Poonjar Palace, Kottayam

Poonjar Palace in Kottayam stands as a magnificent testament to Kerala's regal history, showcasing intricate wooden architecture and a rich collection of antiques. Constructed entirely of wood, this palace narrates stories of bygone eras through its elaborate carvings, ancient weapons, and exquisite furniture. A visit here offers an insightful glimpse into the grandeur and artistry of Kerala's royal past. Things to Do: Explore the palace museum, admire the traditional architecture, and visit the nearby Meenachil River. How to Reach: Approximately 75 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: Half-day. Places to Stay: Hotels, lodges, and homestays in Kottayam.

27. Cheeyappara Waterfalls, Munnar

Cheeyappara Waterfalls, located en route to Munnar, cascade gracefully through seven tiers, set amidst dense greenery, creating a picturesque spectacle for visitors. Revered as one of Kerala's most magnificent waterfalls, it provides a serene backdrop, ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The surrounding rock formations and lush forests augment the area's natural beauty and provide ample trekking opportunities. Things to Do: Trekking, photography, and picnicking by the falls. How to Reach : Approximately 95 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration : Half-day. Places to Stay: Resorts, lodges, and homestays in nearby Munnar regions.

Distance from Kochi: 83 km

28. Valara Falls, Munnar

Valara Falls, nestled between Neriamangalam and Adimali in Munnar, is a stunning cascade surrounded by thick forest and rich flora, making it a sight to behold. The falls are especially captivating during the monsoon when they thunder down from a height, surrounded by mist and verdant greenery. The melody of the rushing waters combined with the dense wilderness makes it a preferred spot for relaxation and nature photography. Things to Do : Nature walks, photography, and bird-watching. How to Reach : Approximately 92 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: Half-day to a full day, depending on exploration. Places to Stay: Nearby accommodations in Munnar ranging from homestays to luxury resorts.

Distance from Kochi: 84 km

29. Vagamon, Kerala

Known For : Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary Kurisumala Vagamon Falls

Vagamon, a tranquil hill station in Kerala, is often referred to as the 'Scotland of Asia' for its lush green meadows, cool climate, and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the Western Ghats, its scenic beauty, combined with an array of adventure activities, offers an unparalleled experience. The refreshing environment and serene ambiance make Vagamon a perfect retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Things to Do : Paragliding, trekking, exploring pine forests, and visiting the Vagamon meadows. How to Reach: Approximately 100 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2-3 days. Places to Stay: Hillside resorts, home stays, and budget lodges.

Distance from Kochi: 102 km

Best Time: October - March

17 Vagamon Attractions

30. Marmala Waterfalls, Kottayam

Marmala Waterfalls in Kottayam is a hidden gem that flows down a steep rock face, surrounded by lush forests, offering a tranquil setting for nature enthusiasts. Tucked away from the touristy crowds, the pristine waters and surrounding greenery make it a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. The relative seclusion and unspoiled environment offer visitors an authentic experience of Kerala's natural beauty. Things to Do: Trekking, photography, and picnicking. How to Reach: Approximately 70 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration : Half-day to a full day, depending on exploration. Places to Stay : Guesthouses, resorts, and homestays in nearby Kottayam regions.

Distance from Kochi: 89 km

31. Gavi, Idukki

Gavi in Idukki, enveloped within the lush confines of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, stands out as an ecotourism haven, offering a surreal experience of Kerala's untouched wilderness. The region's rich biodiversity, serene lakes, and verdant landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for both adventure and relaxation. Birdwatching, safaris, and the sight of endangered species in their natural habitat elevate Gavi's charm, making it a must-visit destination. Things to Do: Jungle safaris, birdwatching, trekking, and boating on Gavi Lake. How to Reach: Approximately 160 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2-3 days. Places to Stay: Forest lodges, eco-resorts, and camping options within the sanctuary.

Distance from Kochi: 169 km

32. Periyar National Park, Thekkady

Periyar National Park in Thekkady stands as one of India's most renowned wildlife reserves, providing shelter to an array of fauna including the majestic Indian elephant and the elusive Bengal tiger. Set around a picturesque lake, this park offers a blend of nature and adventure in the heart of the Western Ghats. Its rich biodiversity and engaging activities like boat safaris make it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Things to Do: Boat safaris on Periyar Lake, wildlife spotting, jungle trekking, and bamboo rafting. How to Reach: Approximately 160 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2-3 days. Places to Stay: Jungle lodges, resorts, and homestays around Thekkady.

Distance from Kochi: 163 km

33. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, set against the picturesque backdrop of Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom, is a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Home to a myriad of migratory and resident birds, the sanctuary's serene wetlands and rich biodiversity offer a tranquil experience amidst nature. The sights and sounds of rare bird species, combined with the lush green surroundings, make it an unmissable spot near Kochi. Things to Do : Bird watching, boating in Vembanad Lake, and nature walks. How to Reach : Approximately 50 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: Half-day to a full day, depending on exploration. Places to Stay: Lakeside resorts, homestays, and luxury villas in Kumarakom.

Distance from Kochi: 56 km

34. Kerala Kalamandalam, Thrissur

Kerala Kalamandalam in Thrissur is the venerable abode of traditional performing arts of Kerala, where art forms like Kathakali, Koodiyattam, and Mohiniyattam come alive. Established to preserve and propagate classical arts, it's not just an academy but a temple of learning that offers an insight into the rich cultural tapestry of Kerala. Visitors get an unparalleled experience witnessing the rigorous training, captivating performances, and the dedication of artists towards their craft. Things to Do: Attend classical art performances, participate in workshops, and explore the cultural museum. How to Reach: Approximately 80 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1-2 days. Places to Stay: Hotels, guesthouses, and homestays in Thrissur.

Distance from Kochi: 107 km

35. Thenmala, Kerala - First Planned Ecotourism Site in India

Known For : Butterfly Safari Adventure zone Trekking

Thenmala in Kerala is India's first planned eco-tourism destination, famed for its unparalleled natural beauty and well-structured visitor-friendly amenities. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it's a blend of leisure and adventure amidst pristine forests, rubber and tea plantations. The harmonious integration of cultural and eco-tourism activities makes Thenmala a unique travel experience. Things to Do: Enjoy boating in the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary, visit the leisure zone with sculptural gardens and boardwalks, go trekking, and experience the treetop huts. How to Reach: Approximately 160 km by road from Kochi. Ideal Duration: 2 days. Places to Stay: Eco-lodges, treehouses, and nearby hotels in Thenmala and Punalur.

Distance from Kochi: 175 km

Best Time: December to February

7 Thenmala Attractions

36. Fort Kochi, Kochi

Fort Kochi, often regarded as the 'Gateway to Kerala,' is an enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influences interwoven with local traditions, this coastal town is a melting pot of diverse experiences. From the iconic Chinese fishing nets to colonial-era buildings, Fort Kochi offers a journey through time, making it an essential part of any Kochi itinerary. Things to Do: Stroll along the beach witnessing Chinese fishing nets, explore the Dutch Palace, visit St. Francis Church, and indulge in the local art scene at the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. How to Reach : Located within the city limits, Fort Kochi is easily accessible from all parts of Kochi via road, and ferries also ply from Ernakulam to Fort Kochi. Ideal Duration: 1-2 days. Places to Stay: Heritage hotels, boutique stays, guesthouses, and homestays abound in Fort Kochi.

Distance from Kochi: 12 km

Kochi is perfectly located for a traveller looking for weekend getaways in South India. This is why it attracts a lot of tourists, who visit Kochi as well as places around Kochi. Places to visit near Kochi are attractive and variegated - ranging from Hill Stations to Resorts to Picnic Spots. Among the places within 200 - 300 km from Kochi, the popular ones include Alleppey, Kumarakom, Munnar etc. These places take 1-2 day(s) and make for a perfect weekend getaway from Kochi.

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• Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg In 2024

18 Jan 2023

Comprising of palaces, monasteries, cathedrals, museum’s, parks, hills, towers, and galleries, travelers must include these places to visit in Moscow and St. Petersburg in their itinerary for a complete travel experience. Taking you through its modern culture, ancient traditions, and rich historical past, these places to see in Moscow are not just interesting, but are beyond magical.

20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg

Here is a list of places to explore in the beautiful city of Moscow and St. Petersburg on your trip that you might not want to miss. Keep scrolling down and read along:

• Hermitage Museum
• Krestovsky Stadium
• Peterhof Palace
• Pushkin Museum
• Kolomenskoye
• Novospassky Monastery
• Kremlin Armoury
• Sparrow Hills
• Cathedral Of The Archangel
• Diamond Fund
• Losiny Ostrov National Park
• Ostankino Tower
• Grand Kremlin Palace
• Bolshoi Theatre
• Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics
• Saint Basil’s Cathedral
• Moscow Kremlin

20. Hermitage Museum

Hermitage Museum at St Petersburg is the second-largest art museum in the world, after The Louvre in Paris, France. The establishment was founded in 1764 by Empress Catherine the Great. From Egyptian antiquities, Renaissance art, Dutch and Flemish Baroque art to Neoclassical, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and modern European fine art – Hermitage Museum artworks are any art-enthusiast’s paradise.

Location: Palace Square, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 190000 Timings: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm (Monday closed)

19. Krestovsky Stadium

Named after Sergey Kirov, the stadium was also home to the Zenit Football Club for certain periods in the 1900’s. The Fifa Confederations Cup took place in the Krestovsky Stadium, with several group matches and the final between Germany and Chile taking place at the stadium. The 2018 Fifa World Cup also took place there, when Russia hosted the competition.

Location: Futbol’naya Alleya, 1, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 197110 Timings: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

18. Peterhof Palace

One of the most important sites of cultural importance in Russia is the Peterhof Palace. It is a series of palaces and gardens which are located in Peterhof, St Petersburg. One of the best features of the area that catches the eyes of the many tourists who come to visit the area is a 16-metre high cliff. One of the best features of the Palace is the Chesma Hall. The Hall is decorated with painting from the Battle of Chesma, where Russia won a naval victory during the Russo-Turkish war.

Location: Razvodnaya Ulitsa, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia Timings: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

17. Pushkin Museum

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If you want to visit one of the best tourist places in Moscow to explore a wide selection of European masterpieces, then you must visit the Pushkin Museum. Here, you can explore The museum is divided into three sections which cover the themes: Byzantine art, the Renaissance, and the Dutch Golden Age. For a collection donated by individuals, you can also visit the Museum of Private Collections.

Location: Ulitsa Volkhonka, 12, Moskva, Russia, 119019 Timings: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Must Read: Villas In Moscow: 7 Places That Offer Unparalleled Luxury In The Heart Of Russia

16. Kolomenskoye

Nestled just a few kilometers outside of the city center, Kolomenskoye was once a royal estate which is now converted into a museum-reserve. Overlooking the Moskva River, you will get to gain a plethora of history from this museum. You can take a stroll in the garden at this museum which is one of the top places to visit in Moscow, Russia.

Location: Andropova Ave, 39, Moskva, Russia, 115487 Timings: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

15. Novospassky Monastery

With attractions like Novospassky Monastery, there is no need to worry as to what to see in Moscow . Dating back to the times of the 14th century, Novospassky Monastery happens to be the first monastery established in the heart of Moscow. Located in the southeastern region, it is one of the must-visit places in Moscow.

Location: Krest’yanskaya Ploshchad’, 10, Moskva, Russia, 115172

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14. Kremlin Armoury

Kremlin Armoury is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow which is located within the premises of Moscow Kremlin. A treasure house in the heart of Moscow, Kremlin Armoury is a unique museum that has put up about 4000 unique and precious belongings from 1851 on display.

Location: The Moscow Kremlin, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

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13. Sparrow Hills

Much famed as the Lenin Hills until 1999, it is a must for every traveler to include a visit to the Sparrow Hills on their Moscow city tour . Standing tall at an elevation of 220 meters, it is the highest viewpoints in the city that rises above the Moskva River. Get atop the hills to enjoy breathtaking views of the Moscow skyline.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 119270

Suggested Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More

12. Cathedral Of The Archangel

Perched in between the attractions of Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the great Great Kremlin Palace, this orthodox cathedral in the heart of Moscow and the mighty Archangel Michael is the patron saint of the cathedral. Reflecting the charm of the Italian Renaissance architectural style, this cathedral is built on the site of the original structure which dates back to 1333.

Location: Cathedral Square, Moscow Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

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10. Diamond Fund

Image Credit: Shakko for wikipedia

A mine of precious stones, jewelry, Diamond Fund is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow for those whose love for diamonds is limitless. Established by Emperor Peter I of Russia in the year of 1719, this gem of a place resides within the premises of the famous Moscow Kremlin.

Location: Proyezd Proyektiruyemyy 813, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 1 PM, and 2 PM to 5:20 PM (Closed on Thursdays)

9. Losiny Ostrov National Park

Of all the Moscow points of interest , Losiny Ostrov National Park offers a perfect amalgamation of nature and wildlife. Often compared to the Pedra Branca State Park in Rio de Janeiro, and the Table Mountain National Park of Cape Town, in terms of its size and grandeur, it is the first-ever national park of the Russian capital wherein one can witness many species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.

Location: Poperechny Prosek, 1G, Moscow 107014, Russia

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8. Ostankino Tower

Standing tall at a height of 1,772 feet, Ostankino Tower is famous for being the only free-standing structure in the whole of Europe. Apart from being the eleventh high-rising structures of the world, the observation deck at Ostankino Tower is the place to be for those who wish to relish the best views of Moscow’s skyline.

Location: Akademika Koroleva St, 15, Moskva, Russia, 127427 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM

7. Grand Kremlin Palace

Established in the year of 1849, Great or Grand Kremlin Palace is one of those places to visit in Moscow that will leave you beyond astonished. Constructed beautifully and with a great eye for detail, the intricate decor inside the Grand Kremlin Palace reflects the pure charm of the Revival architecture in Russian that blends perfectly with the architectural style of Byzantine Revival.

Location: Moscow Kremlin, Moscow 103073, Russia

Suggested Read: 19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

Image Courtesy: publicdomainpictures.net

What Pragati Maidan is to Delhi, VDNKh is for Moscow. Being one of the popular Moscow sightseeing places , VDNKh or Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyaystva is a grand trade and exhibition center in Moscow that assures the travelers an experience like none other. Home to numerous palaces, fountains, architectural marvels, arches, and pavilions, there will never be a dull moment on your visit to VDNKh during your trip to Moscow .

Location: Prospekt Mira, 119, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Image Credit: DmitriyGuryanov for wikipedia

For the lovers of art, and culture, Bolshoi Theatre is the place to be for them to witness one of the finest live performances of opera and ballet performances. Famous for featuring a neoclassical facade, Bolshoi Theatre is one of the renowned landmarks of the city.

Location: Theatre Square, 1, Moskva, Russia, 125009

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4. Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics

Striking, unique, and aiming to touch the sky, the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is one of the best Moscow tourist sites which the travelers cannot afford to miss. Educating the visitors about the significant part of Russia’s history in the domain of space, it is a strict no-no to miss out on visiting the Museum of Cosmonautics when in the city.

Location: Prospekt Mira, 111, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Thursdays & Saturdays – 10 AM to 9 PM; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, & Sundays – 10 AM to 7 PM; Closed on Mondays

3. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Considered to be one of the top places to visit in Moscow , Saint Basil’s Cathedral is also famed as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed amongst the locals. Being one of the crucial landmarks of Moscow located in the heart of Red Square, the cathedral dates back to the times of 16th century. Serving as a visual treat to the travelers, it happens to be one of the most-captured attractions in Moscow.

Location: Krasnaya Square, 2, Moscow 109012, Russia

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2. Red Square

Separating the royal citadel of Kremlin from the ancient merchant quarter of Kitai-gorod, Red Square is one of the most interesting places in Moscow . Bearing the weight of Russia’s history to a great extent, Red Square serves not just as an attraction but as the heart, soul, and symbol of the whole country.

Location: Krasnaya Ploshchad, Moscow, Russia

1. Moscow Kremlin

If all the attractions serve as members of the city, then Moscow Kremlin serves as the home in which all these tourist sites reside. Encompassing of almost all the famous sightseeing attractions, the royal residence of the President of Russia, the Moscow Kremlin is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Moscow . Offering breathtaking views of River Moskva and located at the heart of the city, it is a must for everyone to explore this fortified complex once in their lifetime.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 5 PM; Closed on Thursday

How To Get There

Air Astana has resumed daily operations, and with the launch of 2 additional flights starting 2nd September 2019, they will now be operating 11 times a week offering even more onward connections. You can now make the most of this special offer by Air Astana and plan your trip to the biggest metropolitan city of Kazakhstan. Transit passengers can also visit Nur – Sultan and Almaty hassle – free in their journey with Kazakhstan’s 72-hour transit visa-free regime . You can now also apply for an e-visa before traveling to Kazakhstan. The process is very simple!

Explore Two Countries In One Trip

There is good news for all transiting passengers. With Air Astana’s 1$ Stopover Holiday Package, you can enjoy a one-night stay in Almaty or Astana starting at just 1$ for the first night. Simply pay online and you will receive instant confirmation for your Stopover Holiday Package with Air Astana . The package includes a one-night stay in 3-4 star hotel, buffet breakfast, and airport transfers. What more could you possibly need!

Further Read: 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

While these are some of the famous places to visit in Moscow and St.Petersburg, this is just the beginning of what this incredible city has to offer. Hence, make sure you include these Moscow attractions and St. Petersburg sights to your bucket list while you gear up to fulfill your dream on your sojourn to Russia !

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Moscow

What is the best time to visit Moscow?

April to August happens to be the best time to visit Moscow when the summer season lets the tourists make the most of their journey.

What is that one experience that one must not miss out when planning a trip to Russia?

A ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway that crosses eight time zones across 9300 kms is one of the most unique experiences that one should not miss out on their trip to Moscow!

What are some of the must-visit attractions in Moscow?

Moscow Kremlin, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square, and Bolshoi Theatre are some of the famous must visit attractions in Moscow.

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Discover Siberia: Irkutsk city is your springboard to the mystical land

The mere mention of Siberia evokes a sense of remoteness and extreme cold, images of snow-clad terrain, vast and sparsely populated land as well as chilling memories of exile and forced labour. The territory and its sub-zero temperatures can be fascinating and forbidding at the same and it all depends on your tolerance for extreme cold temperature and the readiness to venture into difficult terrain in far-flung areas. Irkutsk, one of the largest cities in Siberia, could be your springboard to this mystical land.

Tourists who are not from cold climes may find Irkutsk, a city in east-central Russia, tolerable and inviting, especially in autumn when you can even expect short periods of Indian Summer. But expect the opposite in the port city of Yakutsk – the coldest city in the world, 1,857 km away; the village of Oymyakon, which is further east, is colder than Yakutsk. Oymyakon is famed as the "coldest permanently inhabited place" anywhere in the world.

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Where is Irkutsk?

Irkutsk, which is the capital of the Russian province of Irkutsk Oblast, is in the east-central part of the country and southeastern Siberia. This early centre of Siberian trade is almost midway on the over 9,000 km Trans-Siberian Railway route stretching from western Russia to the Far East. The city's growth and significance since its origin in the 17th century stem from its location on the banks of the Angara River and on the Trans-Siberian route. Baikal, the world's largest freshwater lake which is about 60 km to the south, also has a profound influence.

What to see

Irkutsk is the cultural hub of Eastern Siberia. Its appeal for tourist lies in its well-preserved cultural and historic heritage. Ironically, city's culture was moulded by talented Russian elites and artists banished to Siberia after the Decembrist revolt (of 26 December 1825) against the Tsar. Another major wave of deportation to Siberia was to follow soon with the establishment of the Soviet Union a few years after the fall of the Tsarist regime in early 1917.

By the turn of the 20th century Irkutsk was touted "The Paris of Siberia" for its early brush with modernity in the erstwhile Russian Empire after rebounding from a major fire in 1879. Unfortunately, wild fires in the Irkutsk region are a persisting threat, gutting vast swathes of the Russian Taiga – one of the largest forested parts of the world.

Several churches, museums and theatres in this compact city should be on the priority list for your city tour.

The art, iconography and architecture of the Orthodox Churches here are sure to impress the faithful and the aficionado. The beautiful churches survived the Soviet-era shutdown or demolition risks. The ones you should visit are the Holy Cross Cathedral, Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God, Cathedral of The Epiphany, Church of the Savior of the Holy Face.

Irkutsk, in fact, is a city of museums. Irkutsk Art Museum, which is one of the oldest of the kind in Russia, has a large collection of works of art, especially by the Buryats – of the two major ethnic groups indigenous to Siberia. Its stone and wood buildings themselves are sights to behold are located in the heart of the city. Other popular museums include the Irkutsk Regional Memorial Decembrists Museum and those on special themes.

Two special tourist attractions, both located on the periphery of the city, are the museum of icebreaker 'Angara' and the Landfill Museum. The former, one of the first icebreakers in the world, was at work on Lake Baikal from 1900 to 1962. The Landfill Museum is the Siberian version of the famed Rock Garden in Chandigarh, India. The open-air facility, which aims to promote sustainable practices, has installations made of waste.

Animal lovers should visit the nerpinary or sealarium, i.e., the aquarium of seals. Freshwater seal, known as nerpa, is found in Lake Baikal.

Within the city, the well-maintained embankments of the river are also popular spots to chill out by locals and tourists. On the banks of Angara, glance at the majestic monument to Tsar Alexander III which was installed to commemorate his conception of the Tran-Siberian Railway. Another monument with historic import is one of Admiral Alexander Kolchak, who was held as the supreme ruler of Russia by counter-revolutionaries during the Russian Civil War (1918–20). His execution by the Bolsheviks in Irkutsk in early 1920 proved to be a turning point in the conflict.

Tree-lined streets flanked by old wooden houses with exquisite traditional Siberian architecture are also rare delights in the city. Imposing Stalinist architecture are in between.

The prime selfie spot is before the sculpture of a mythological monster called Babr which has come to be Irkutsk's striking symbol.

Outdoor activities, including hiking and boating, are aplenty especially in and around Lake Baikal – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pribaikalsky National Park which abuts the pristine lake for over 400 km is rich in biodiversity.

If you are arriving in Irkutsk in winter, don't miss the Ice Sculpture Festival on the Lake Baikal. Other popular winter entertainment in other parts of Siberia include ice fishing, reindeer races and dog sledding.

How to travel around

In Irkutsk and in other Russian cities options galore for public transport. The city has trams, trolley buses, taxis apart from cabs and buses. Marshrutka (van used as share taxi) is much relied on by public as they are affordable and provide last-mile connectivity. Self-balancing personal transporters too are popular.

Most tourist attractions in the city are close by and mostly in and around the centre.

The bus station (avtovokzal) is in the city centre.

ALERT: Those who venture to far-flung parts of Siberia or northern Russia should be ready to put up with dangerous terrain; mudpaths; rides on frozen waterbodies, including rivers, and permafrost (soil that is permanently frozen); mandatory winter closures of certain stretches, especially in areas in sub-Arctic zones; threats posed by wild animals; very long nights etc.

Where to stay

Irkutsk has ample places to stay for tourists. Hotels and hostels are available. The landmark, Soviet-era Angara hotel is in the heart of the city, the Kirov Square, close to the grand building of the Administration of Irkutsk Region. This hotel is a mini-entertainment zone itself with restaurants serving European, Russian, Japanese or Chinese fare; a bar; billiards club; supermarket and a host of other facilities. The Kirov Park is bang opposite.

Food: varied fare

With rivers and lake close by and seas not far away, Irkutsk or any other Siberian town has good selection of seafood. Traditional Russian, Siberian and European foods too are available in restaurants in Irkutsk. Mongolian and Japanese cuisines too are on offer. Foodies should proceed to the 130th Kvartal (Quarter) – a busy lane flanked by eateries, cafes and bars housed in decked up old wooden buildings. Souvenir shops and art galleries are in between.

Weather and what to wear

Siberia is thrice as large as India and Russia is about five times bigger than India. In such a humongous area that comprises about 9% of Earth's land surface the weather could be varied in various places. As for the climate, overall, you may expect mostly frosty cold all round the year, but not all parts, except polar and sub-polar zones, would be covered in snow always. In 1933, Oymyakon recorded -67.7°C; this is the lowest temperature so far recorded in any human settlement if research stations in Antarctica are excluded.

If arriving in Irkutsk by late September please carry waterproof jacket, gloves, thermals and winter boots. Snow boots are essential if you are proceeding further to remote polar or sub-polar zones.

Of late, Irkutsk and other parts of Siberia have witnessed erratic weather patterns.

How to reach

You can reach Irkutsk either by plane or by train along the Trans-Siberian railway. Irkutsk International Airport and the Irkutsk railway station are very close to the city centre. Moscow to Irkutsk train ride lasts about 4 days.

Irkutsk is 5 hours ahead of Moscow Time. Other Siberian cities, including Krasnoyarsk, Yakutsk and Novosibirsk, too have air connectivity, but flight disruptions and delays are to be expected as winter advances.  

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