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Plan Your trip

• Kerala Tourism

A Welcoming Destination Where Nature, Beaches, Backwaters, Ayurveda, and Culture Await You.

Hill Stations

The scenic and serene hill stations in Kerala offer ultimate rejuvenation to a tired soul.

The picturesque emerald backwaters of Kerala take you on a tour of the unique lifestyle of the villages in the state.

The sandy beaches of Kerala with azure waters are undoubtedly the perfect places for a beach holiday in South India.

• Best Time to Visit
• How to Reach
• Places to Visit
• Things to Do

Not Required

About Kerala Tourism

Encompassing serenity, Kerala is a charming South Indian destination that should be in every traveller’s bucket list. Adorned with the emerald backwaters, sprawling and lush tea estates, pristine hill stations, and azure Arabian Sea, Kerala tourism boasts numerous tourist places with which you will fall in love instantly.

In North Kerala, districts like Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram have many attractions for the tourists. Wayanad offers a lovely hill station holiday whereas Kozhikode offers a great beach holiday and an opportunity of bird watching.

In Central Kerala, Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Idukki have a number of experiences in store. Thrissur is a culture aficionado’s paradise while Idukki and Ernakulam are the hotspots for nature lovers.

In South Kerala Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram are ready with a variety of experiences like backwaters and houseboat in Alappuzha; beach vacations in Kollam, and a glance at rich history of Kerala at Pathanamthitta.

Kerala tourism isn’t only about imbibing natural beauty but its rich culture that is festooned with dances, festivals, delectable cuisine, literature, Ayurveda therapies, and art & craft. Kerala has it all, and you have to see it, to believe it.

The state opens its doors to beach holidays with picturesque beaches like Varkala, Kovalam and Marari. Giving a good run to pristine beaches are the backwaters of Kerala that can be best experienced in Alleppey and Kumarakom.

Kerala's beach and backwaters are accompanied by its lush and surreal hill stations, of which Munnar, Wayanad and Vagamon are the best places to visit in the summer season. With Western Ghats covering some of its area, Kerala is the best wildlife destination and is perfect for birdwatching.

We, at Tour My India would be happy to help you explore the scenic destination of Kerala, and therefore, offer to you the finest Kerala holiday packages and deals. With our best Kerala travel packages, you can rest assured for a hassle free and memorable holiday in Kerala.

List of Top 10 Most Visited Tourist Destinations of Kerala

Alleppey: Kerala’s favourite backwater tourist destination, Alleppey is famed for offering an incredible experience of staying and cruising in a traditional houseboat.

Munnar: Adorned with myriad tea estates and rolling hills, Munnar is without a doubt the best hill station in Kerala. It is a must visit tourist place in Kerala for a relaxing holiday as well as relishing adventure activities.

Kochi: A cosmopolitan city with a bustling port, Kochi is where the modern lifestyle meets the traditional one. The city is the perfect reflection of Kerala and has many experiences up its sleeves.

Thekkady: Fringing the popular Periyar National Park, Thekkady is a hill station in Kerala that attracts many nature and wildlife lovers. It is one of the best places to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kerala.

Thrissur: The cultural capital, Thrissur does not need an introduction. From drawing a large crowd on its Temple Festival (Thrissur Pooram) to being an abode to several cultural centres, the city is a must-visit in Kerala.

Kovalam: A small coastal town with some of the best beaches of Kerala, Kovalam is a place where you get to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising.

Wayanad: Dotted with camping sites, trekking trails and gorgeous waterfalls, Wayanad is a peaceful and picturesque hill station that is perfect for holiday in Kerala.

Kumarakom: The favourite place for luxury seekers desiring a holiday on the backwaters of Kerala, Kumarakom is replete with luxury houseboats and resorts promising an experience of a lifetime.

Kozhikode: Home to serene beaches and historic sites, Kozhikode is where Vasco Da Gama landed when he discovered India. The city is a perfect place to get an authentic experience of Kerala.

Thiruvananthapuram: The capital city, Thiruvananthapuram is where you can find authentic Kerala’s food, intriguing sights and a cluster of Victorian museums; it’s a place of many experiences.

Best Time for Visiting Kerala for Holidays

The best time to visit Kerala is between October and February, when on an average the weather is conducive to go on sightseeing tours and enjoying all the activities offered in the state.

Quick Important Facts & Information About Kerala

Kerala tourism latest news update 2023, 1. kerala breaks tourism records in 2022, welcomes highest number of visitors ever.

Another feather in the crown of the tourism department in Kerala! Popularly known as the ‘God’s Own Country,’ Kerala witnessed a spike of 2.63 per cent in the footfall of domestic visitors in 2022 after the hiatus of two years of the pandemic. According to PA Mohammad Riyas, Kerala’s Tourism Minister, 1.88 crore domestic tourists visited the state in the last year, which is an all-time record ever, since its formation. Mohammad Riyas also announced the names of the most popular tourist places in Kerala which have welcomed the most tourists. According to the reports , six districts of Kerala, Wayanad, Alappuzha, Malappuram, Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki and Pathanamthitta received major tourist footfalls in 2022. Moreover, the minister said that Kerala has become a trending wedding destination after the COVID pandemic, which helped the state to achieve the record. He also said that in terms of international tourists, the state is expected to become a tourism hub for Ayurvedic treatment, specifically for European tourists, soon.

2. Kerala Feels Proud Ranking Ninth in TIME’s World’s Greatest Places 2022 List

Kerala has been ranked ninth as an eco-tourism destination in the list of World’s Greatest Places 2022 by TIME magazine. The US-based magazine wrote that the spectacular beaches, marvellous temples, amazing backwaters and the superb hospitality of people make the place the ‘Incredible Kerala’. The magazine also mentions the new project named ‘Karavan Meadows’ that promotes sustainable tourism similar to backwater tourism. Minister of Kerala Tourism, Mohammed Riyaz told the press about the latest Kerala Tourism news update and said it’s all become possible due to the hard work and policies made by the sector. Other World’s top destinations to explore are Ras al Khaimah (UAE), Park City (Utah, US), Galapagos Islands, Dolní Moravo of the Czech Republic, Seoul, Great Barrier Reef in Australia, Doha, and Detro, which are ranked above Kerala in the list.

3. Kerala Tourism Bags Prestigious ‘Responsible Tourism Global Award’ at World Travel Mart, London

At the World Travel Mart in London, Kerala Tourism won the esteemed Responsible Tourism Global award. PA Mohammed Riyas, the state's minister of tourism, accepted the honour on the department's behalf in London. The Kerala Government's Responsible Tourism Mission's STREET initiative was recognised with the prize. The water street project that was put into place in Maravanthuruthu in the Kottayam district received special attention from the jury.

Kerala Holiday Packages by Destinations

Athirapally

Best selling kerala tour packages.

9 Nights - 10 Days

Exotic Kerala Tour

7 Nights - 8 Days

Escape to Kerala

6 Nights - 7 Days

Wonders of Kerala Tour

Magical Kerala Tour

Enchanting Kerala Tour

3 Nights - 4 Days

Munnar Hill Station Tour

Kerala tour packages by theme.

Honeymoon Tour

Family Tour

Beach Tours

Hill Station Tours

Pilgrimage Tours

Backwater Tour

Wildlife Tours

Luxury Tour

• Best Time to Visit Kerala

Summer Season in Kerala

The summer season between March and June in Kerala can be extremely hot with temperature going above 35°C.

Monsoon Season in Kerala

Monsoon begins from June and ends in September in Kerala. The state experiences heavy rainfall and extreme humidity during monsoons.

Winter Season in Kerala

Winter season in Kerala is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and the temperature remains under 30°C.

Best Places to Visit in Kerala

Dotted with tea gardens and rolling hills, Munnar is one of the top attractions in Kerala.

• Tea Plantation

Home to the scenic backwaters and traditional houseboats, Alleppey is the must-visit in the state.

Offering a blend of modernity and traditions, Kochi is the best place to learn about Kerala.

Dubbed the Cultural Capital of Kerala, Thrissur is known for Thrissurpooram and many cultural centres.

• Green Fields

Peaceful and naturally blessed Wayanad is only next to Munnar as the most preferred holiday destination.

• Western Ghats

Periyar National Park

Blessed with rich flora & fauna, Periyar National Park is amongst the top wildlife reserves in South India.

Reckoned Kerala’s first bird sanctuary, Thattekkad is a home to a wide variety of birds on the banks of Periyar.

• Bird Sanctuary

Unarguably the first choice of every beach lover, Kovalam is a beautiful beach destination in Kerala worth visiting.

The capital city Trivandrum is home to beautiful beaches, rich history, and cultural heritage that are a must-see.

Boasting pristine beaches and rich history, Kozhikode is amongst the top destinations to visit in Kerala.

Home to the Ashtamudi Backwaters and adorned with a long coastline, Kollam is a perfect holiday destination in Kerala.

A coastal village near Thiruvananthapuram, Poovar has a picturesque setting that attracts many tourists.

Offering a fascinating mixture of old and new, Ernakulam is flanked by the Arabian Sea and is thus a must-see.

• Portuguese Houses

A secluded beach destination, Marari is perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday near Alappuzha.

Home to the popular Guruvayoor Temple, Guruvayoor is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim towns in India.

One of the most picturesque waterfalls in India, Athirapally is ideal for nature lovers and romantic couples.

Parambikulam

Offering wildlife sighting and adventure, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in Palakkad is a perfect for a thrilling experience in Kerala.

Top Things to Do in Kerala

Ayurveda Treatments & Therapies

Avail a wide range of Ayurveda treatments in Kerala that has many wellness resorts and centres.

Houseboat Stay & Cruise

Relish one-of-its-kind experience of staying and cruising in a houseboat on the backwaters of Kerala.

Wildlife Safari & Birdwatching

Enjoy enthralling wildlife safari and sight the rich flora & fauna of Kerala at its various wildlife reserves.

Watersports

Indulge in the adrenaline rushing water sports on the beautiful and adventurous beaches of Kerala.

• Cultural Performances

Imbibe the rich culture of Kerala and watch varied martial arts and dance performances like Kathakali.

Keralan Cuisine

Savour the delectable dishes of Keralan cuisine that has many interesting elements and textures.

Eco Tourism

Enjoy nature from close quarters and that too without harming it in any way in Kerala with its ecotourism venture.

Dotted with some of the most scenic trails that are adventurous, Kerala is a great destination for hiking and trekking.

Coracle Boating

Try one of its kind Bowl Boat riding or Coracle Boating between Mundommoozhy and Irattayaar for an unforgettable experience.

Village Tour

Kerala offers travellers a pristine, peaceful, indigenous experience through an extensive tour of the villages of Kerala.

• How to Reach Kerala

Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode all have their own airports connecting them to major cities of India.

Along with Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala has several railway stations connecting it to the rest of India.

NH 17, NH 47, and NH 49 connect Kerala to the major cities of India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. when is the best time to visit kerala.

The best time to visit Kerala is between October and February when the weather is perfect for sightseeing. The monsoon season between June and September is also a good time to visit and enjoy the natural beauty and Ayurveda therapies. In the summer season, it can be difficult to plan a trip to Kerala because of high temperature and humidity. However, hill stations like Munnar can still be visited in the state.

Q. What is the best way to travel to Kerala?

Kerala enjoys a good connectivity via rail, road, and air. Many of its major cities have their own airports, whereas, trains and roads almost all parts of the state.

Q. Is it safe to visit Kerala in the monsoon season?

Yes, it is safe to plan a trip in the monsoon season to Kerala. However, it is recommended to check the weather forecast before planning a trip and also keep an eye on the news.

Q. Do your family tours to Kerala have something for the kids?

Yes, our family tours to Kerala include several activities like horse riding, boating etc. for the kids.

Q. Is Kerala safe for solo women travellers?

Yes, Kerala is quite safe for solo women travellers. However, it is advised to practise caution like one does anywhere in the world while travelling.

Q. In which season Ayurveda therapy in Kerala is recommended?

The monsoon season (June to September) is considered the ideal time for Ayurveda therapy in Kerala. In the rainy season, the pores in the body open which allow the Ayurvedic herbs used in therapies to absorb well.

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

The best dishes to try in Kerala are:

• Puttu and kadala curry
• Karimeen pollichathu (fish)
• Malabar Parotta with Kerala beef curry
• Erissery or pumpkin and lentil curry
• Palada payasam (dessert)

Q. Why to book Kerala holidays with TMI?

We are a certified travel company with over 18 years of experience. We are capable of offering 24x7 personalised and cost-effective services for Kerala tours.

Why Choose TMI for Kerala?

Experienced

An experienced Kerala tour operator, with a team of an experienced travel enthusiast ensure to give our clients well-designed Kerala South India tour packages.

We are certified by major tour and travel associations in India and world like IATA, IATO, TAAI, IMF & MOT (Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India)

Happy Customers

TMI has received numerous accolades from its happy customers for its excellent services and best Kerala holidays.

Local Offices

We have local office in Kerala for our customers to find assistance anytime and anywhere.

Kerala Travel Guide Essential Information

• Accommodation
• Travel Tips
• Tourism Festival

Where to Stay in Kerala?

Kerala invites tourists to savour a plethora of experiences and leaves no stone unturned in offering them the best places to stay. There is a wide range of accommodations available at every popular tourist destination in Kerala. In fact, the lesser-known and offbeat places in the state too have a decent accommodation.

From budget to luxury to heritage hotels to houseboats, camps and homestay, Kerala leaves one spoilt for choices.

Tour My India has association with the top most hotels and resorts of Kerala and offers lowest prices and great deals on every hotel booking made with us. Excellent services are also guaranteed with us!

Major Activities for Tourists in Kerala

Kerala offers an opportunity to have varied experiences that are worth relishing. The state offers the chance to indulge in therapeutic ayurvedic massages; cruising in the houseboats on the pristine backwaters and thrilling watersports on the beaches. The must-have experiences in Kerala also include witnessing exhilarating snake boat races; relishing delectable food; enjoying watching classical dance performances like Kathakali and Mohiniattam or martial art performances like Kalaripayattu.

The state also offers an opportunity to enjoy the tea and spice plantation tours; shopping for handicrafts; wildlife sighting and birdwatching tours.

Kerala Travel Tips

The following travel tips ensure your Kerala trip is hassle-free and that you have a great time in God's Own Country.

• You can bring as much foreign currency as you want to Kerala and get it exchanged.
• Banks are open for transactions from 10:00 - 3:30 hrs on weekdays and on first and third Saturdays. Second and Fourth Saturdays are holidays.
• Several hotels, restaurants and shopping centres accept major credit cards - Mastercard and Visa.
• For the best Kerala holiday experience, visit between September and May.
• Carry cotton outfits; hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion etc.
• Book your Ayurveda therapies and treatments at centres that are classified/approved by the Department of Tourism.
• A variety of food apart from the cuisine of Kerala is available at major restaurants
• Some temples in Kerala do not permit entry to non-Hindus.
• Strict dress codes are followed in most of the temples. Footwear is banned inside the temple premises.
• Nudity is not allowed in any of the beaches in Kerala.
• Smoking is banned in public places.
• When visiting someone’s home in Kerala, make sure to leave the footwear outside.
• Demonstrating affection in public like hugging or kissing is not an accepted practice in Kerala.
• To visit a wildlife sanctuary or national park in Kerala, prior permission has to be taken from the concerned authority.

The following emergency numbers come handy in Kerala

• Police control room: 100
• Fire station: 101
• Ambulance: 102, 108

Police Helpline

• While traveling on Highways (Highway Alert Number): 9846 100 100
• While traveling in Trains (Railway Alert Number): 9846 200 100
• Website: www.keralapolice.org

Visa on Arrival

No separate visa has to be applied for visiting Kerala. Certain countries are allowed visa on arrival (VOA) by the Indian Government. The two airports of Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi offer visa on arrival to the nationals of following eleven countries:

• Philippines
• New Zealand

For latest information visit official website of India Visa Online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/

Kerala Tourism Festival

The state of Kerala is unarguably rich in its culture, traditions, and history. To make the visitors acquainted with itself, the state hosts a number of tourism festivals that allow a peek inside Kerala. Some Kerala tourism festivals have been celebrated for a long period of time on an annual basis, while few are added every year in order to offer an authentic experience of the state.

• Utsavam: It is a folk-art festival that is hosted in many parts of Kerala.
• Hop on the Bus: It is a festival organized by Thiruvananthapuram DTPC to offer a sightseeing tour of the city.
• Beach Carnival & Games: Hosted in Ernakulam, this festival offers plenty of entertainment at the beautiful beaches of the city.
• Malabar Carnival: Reckoned the largest cultural cum commercial fair, it is held in Kottakunnu.
• Kadamakkudy Tourism Festival: It is an eight-day festival that exhibits the rich culture and art of Kerala.
• Muziris Paddle: It is an enthralling kayaking expedition that offers an incredible nature’s experience.
• International Arts & Crafts Festival: Held at Sargaalaya Arts & Crafts Village in Iringal, the festival is worth witnessing.

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Quick Links to Important Information in Kerala

Kerala travel information at a glance, about kerala.

• People & Culture of Kerala
• Kerala Festivals
• Kerala Folk Dance & Music
• Kerala Food
• Things to Buy from Kerala

Kerala Destinations

• Munnar Tourism
• Kovalam Tourism
• Wayanad Tourism
• Periyar Tourism
• Varkala Tourism
• Kumarakom Tourism

Kerala Tourism Packages

• Munnar Tour Packages
• Kovalam Tour Packages
• Wayanad Tour Packages
• Periyar Tour Packages
• Varkala Tour Packages
• Kumarakom Tour Packages

Kerala Holidays by Interest

• Kerala Honeymoon Packages
• Kerala Family Packages
• Kerala Beach Packages
• Kerala Religious Packages
• Kerala Hill Station Packages
• Kerala Ayurveda Packages
• Yoga & Ayurveda
• Houseboat Cruise
• Village Tourism
• Wildlife Safari
• Bird Watching

Kerala Attractions

• Munnar Attractions
• Kovalam Attractions
• Wayanad Attractions
• Periyar Attractions
• Varkala Attractions
• Kumarakom Attractions

Hotels in Kerala

• Hotels in Munnar
• Hotels in Kochi
• Hotel in Periyar
• Hotels in Kovalam
• Hotels in Kumarakom
• Hotels in Varkala

Other Imp Links

• Kerala Tourism Map
• Kerala Tourist Visa
• Film Tourism in Kerala

KERALA TRAVEL GUIDE | The Best of Kerala Without the Crowds

Our Kerala travel guide covers the best places to visit in Kerala and how to get the best out of this beautiful corner of India with fewer crowds, supporting local and sustainable travel options along the way.

Exploring the Best of God’s Own Country

Think swaying palm trees, crashing surf, coffee plantations, hill retreats, silent backwaters, rice paddies, beautiful national parks that are home to a host of wildlife and you’ve teleported yourself to Kerala.

One of the better known states of India, there’s a lot to pack in to a trip to Kerala. Known as God’s Own Country, Kerala in South India has a lot to offer: from ayurvedic retreats and yoga centres, to hill stations and tea plantations up in the Western Ghats (mountains), to national parks that are home to tigers and elephants, to palm fringed beaches. And then there are the Kerala Backwaters, which despite their overcrowding issues, still provide a serene backdrop to any Kerala experience – when experienced in the right way.

We spent over a month travelling Kerala at the beginning of this year, and despite having more time to spend than many visitors to Kerala, we still could not fit everything in. There’s a lot to do in captivating Kerala: so pick wisely!

ⓘ TIP: Planning a trip to India? Join our free India Travel Facebook group here !

This guide will help you get to the best of your time in Kerala – we have put together our recommendations for travelling mindfully in Kerala. Here you’ll find the best eco friendly resorts, homestays, community tourism projects, wildlife projects, locally owned restaurants, and a whole lot more!

What’s in a name? The place names in Kerala are a bit of a jungle. For some strange reason most places seem to begin with a ‘K’ or an ‘M’ (if anyone can enlighten us as to why please do so!), the names are also remarkably similar / mix-up-able, and there’s also an eclectic mix of old and new names used. Allapuzha is commonly referred to as Alleppey still, whereas Kollam – which was Quillon – universally goes by its new name. We’ve included both old and new names wherever relevant in this Kerala Guide to help with getting around.

Ecotourism in Kerala

Kerala’s beauty is no longer a secret, and with its popularity have come crowds of visitors – both from within India and from overseas. Those crowds have congregated in specific areas of Kerala and led to problems for Kerala’s wildlife, environment and local inhabitants: from pollution, to over-development, to lack of local empowerment and economic benefit from tourism.

Local resources have become drained, including water, and upsetting that very delicate balance of flora and fauna. In Alleppey, where going on a house boat cruise is on the bucket-list for so many, the scenes are often of overcrowding of houseboats, islands of floating plastic and filth a-top inky black water.

The good news is that it is possible to travel in Kerala in a way that avoids the eyesores and mass-touristed spots, and more importantly supports local and community based initiatives where local Keralites see the benefits from tourism. We’ve got you covered for the best of sustainable travel in Kerala.

A word – before we begin – about use of the word “Ecotourism” in Kerala (and the rest of India). Ecotourism, unfortunately, is not always and only used for places that are focused on the principles of responsible tourism (ie. giving back to local communities, being environmentally sensitive and protecting local people and cultures). Instead, “Ecotourism” in India is often used to describe any tourist activity which involves the outdoors (such as walking, camping) and / or seeing wildlife. Whether or not it is eco-friendly or in any way sustainable. 

Short on time or too busy to plan your own trip? There are plenty of local tour companies who can help such as eKeralaTourism  who offer many of the highlights of Kerala or can offer tailor made itineraries.

There are also global companies such as G Adventures who we have travelled with several times and recommend. 

Find out more about G Adventures South India Tours here.

Our Top Picks for Where to Stay in Kerala

Coconut Lagoon (High End) – For luxury along the backwaters there’s no better place than Coconut Lagoon. Owned and run by Keralan family run CGH Earth group, watch the sunset over the backwaters in this beautiful and sustainable hotel which is only accessible by boat… Check rates & book Coconut Lagoon here!

Ashtamudi Villas (Mid Range) – Set on the southern end of Kerala’s backwaters in Kollam, Ashtamudi Villas are owned and run by a local, who also offers trips in dug out canoes and kayaks to local villages for a more intimate experience with the backwaters. Perfect for chilling in one of their lake-side hammocks and experiencing a much less touristy side of the backwaters… Check rates & book Ashtamudi Villas here!

Marari Beach House (Budget) – Right on Marari Beach (one of Kerala’s nicest beaches near Kochi), this simple place is clean and walking distance to the waves. Perfect for hanging by the beach for a few days! Check rates & Book Marari Beach House here!

North Kerala

Kannur & thottada beach.

Kannur was our first port of call in Kerala after spending 3 weeks in beautiful Bangladesh. As our first taste of Kerala this year, Kannur did not disappoint.

Northern Kerala has been off the beaten track for many visitors to Kerala, who have focused more on the central and southern parts of the state. But that may be about to change. This year, Lonely Planet has named Northern Kerala as one of Asia’s hotspots , and as a paradise for those seeking a quieter taste of Kerala. Small homestays line the palm fringed shores, with uninterrupted views out across the Arabian sea.

Planning a trip to Kerala? Grab your Lonely Planet here!

Where to Stay in Kannur & Thottada Beach

Thottada beach is one of the best beaches in the area, with a range of accommodation to suit all budgets . There aren’t any facilities as such or shade, so the best time to visit is morning or late afternoon for a stroll. Ladies are recommended to cover up a bit on the beach as this is a rural and mainly Muslim area.

We stayed at Haris Seashell Inn  just outside of Kannur, which turned out to be one of the best decisions we’ve made. Owned by the enigmatic and kind Mr Haris, these bungalows are perched on a clifftop, with panoramic views out to the beaches below and the sea. I loved waking up and falling asleep to the sound of the crashing waves below.

Mr Haris has done a lot to build the guesthouse in a sustainable way – the villa and rooms are made of repurposed  / upcycled materials salvaged from inhabited traditional Kerala houses, there is an organic farm, and Haris Seashell employs a number of physically handicapped staff, to name but a few initiatives. We happened on this place by chance but were delighted to find  place that was doing so much to create a positive impact!

Check rates and availability for Haris Seashell Inn here .

Getting to and from Kannur

Kannur is well connected by railway north to Goa and Mumbai, and south to Kochi and the rest of Kerala. There’s reportedly a new airport for those coming from further afield. There are also buses connecting to the rest of Kerala and nearby Karnataka state. Our recommended mode of transport in India is by train.

Little heard of – outside of India at least – Wayanad is a tranquil uphill oasis of homestays, quiet villages, scenic winding roads that take you through wild forests, and is a place where you can truly escape.

Things to do in Wayanad

There’s no “centre” to Wayanad as such, so to the first time visitor it can take some time to get your bearings. Sights and activities are spread all over the region, so wherever you base yourself, some road travel will be involved. Our best tip is to pick somewhere quiet to stay, un-plug and relax to the backdrop of the peaceful Wayanad scenery. It’s better not to try to pack too much sightseeing in – but rather adapt to life at a slower pace.

Jeep Safaris.  Wildlife is a big attraction here, but we found our jeep drive at Tholpetty to be disappointing. After an early start and being inline at the forestry department by 6am to get our tickets, we got the second jeep out of the gates. We didn’t see anything apart from a few deer.

Unfortunately the “Safari” consists of a 30 minute drive through the section of national park that is right next to the road, in a line of about 20 jeeps. If you’re more than the second or third jeep in, your chances of seeing wildlife are likely non-existent. We should probably be happy that this means less interference for the animals! As an alternative, safaris at Muthunga are reportedly better than Tholpetty – and even better are the wildlife opportunities in neighbouring Karnataka state.

Beyond the safaris, there are beautiful lakes to visit  and countless hikes one can go on. There are several different boating lakes. Pookode lake has pedals-style boating (we did not visit here) and Banasura Sagar Dam is the place to go for those needing an adrenaline kick – on a speedboat. There is also a slow ferry that you can go on around the lake, at 12 midday.

Homestays in Wayanad

We were lucky enough to stay in two amazing homestays in Wayanad.

The first we found through I-likelocal.com – our go to website for homestays and responsible tourism activities in Asia. We planned to stay one night in a homestay on a working coffee plantation, but our one night turned into four nights! In a simple cabin away from the main house and down a bamboo walkway, we were surrounded by trees and jungle.

Our shady balcony was the perfect spot to relax and read, practice a little meditation, and just enjoy the sound of the birds. Hosted by a welcoming couple, the homestay is the family home and plantation of Sunil, who is also a responsible tourism advocate. We enjoyed chatting about the development of tourism in Wayanad over many a cup of home-grown coffee. 

The homestay is a short distance (15 minutes by rickshaw) from Meenangady, which is a small town with some simple but good thali and dosa restaurants and is a regional transport hub.

Find more information and rates for i-like local homestays here .

Our second homestay in Wayanad was with the inspiring  Kabani Tour  which we found through Visit.org. Kabani Community tourism have set up two village community tourism projects in Kerala and are currently working on a third. Promoting “thoughtful travel”, their concept is one that revolves around travellers experiencing village life through homestays, meeting village elders, learning more about traditional life through guided walks and learning more about traditions. Revenue is then reinvested directly into the community from these activities.

We went to the Kabani village of Mothakara which is famous for its Women-to-Women travel initiatives. Set among villages of winding lanes, emerald paddy fields, and extended lolly-pop shape betel-nut trees, this village is a truly peaceful place. Local women from the village have been trained in guiding and showing (female) visitors to the village, the ways of local village life. These women previously had no employment opportunities, but rather were housewives.

Through the Women to Women travel project they have been given the opportunity to expand their horizons through interactions with visitors to the village, and also to earn additional income for the family. Initially the women did not have any English language skills, and relied on communicating through gestures, expressions, and through their hearts. Over time, English words have been exchanged and learned, and the project has continued to grow. These days these even a guesthouse run entirely by this inspiring team of women. Unfortunately during our visit, the women guide team were oversubscribed and so we didn’t get to experience their project in full; however we did get to meet the charming Radha. 

Our homestay – where we stayed in our host family’s house – was the soft bed and crisp cotton sheets kind of comfortable, and we were served some of the most delicious home-cooked food during all of our time in Kerala.

Find out more info and book Kabani’s Women-to-Women tour here . 

Responsible Travel in Wayanad

Despite Wayanad being little known and considered “off the beaten path” outside of India, it is a different story within India. Wayanad has become / is becoming a popular escape for weekenders from Bangalore and the visitor footfall (or carfall) is steadily increasing. As such Wayanad’s blissful peace and quiet is coming under pressure from tourism, too. Do your bit to leave a positive impact from your visit by taking time to learn about the local culture, respecting the environment by not littering (even better – avoid plastic bottled water) or causing noise pollution (being noisy) and consider staying somewhere that supports eco friendly travel.

We did not have time to visit all of the ecotourism options in Wayanad, so here are some suggestions beyond our experiences above:

Eco Friendly Hotels / Resorts in Wayanad

• Uravu Bamboo Grove is an award winning sustainable lodge, with design-led rooms surrounded by nature.
• An award-winning sustainable guest house set high up in the Wayanad hills, Fringe Ford  is a place that prides itself on being “as cut off from the world as you can get” (we think that’s a good thing!).
• Award winning CGH Earth’s property Wayanad Wild  offers a luxury escape deep into the forest

Wayanad Responsible Tourism Tours & Activities

The best way to support responsible tourism in Wayanad is to be environmentally sensitive (e.g. avoiding plastic and limiting your water use), using public transportation if possible to reduce the number of cars on the road, and to be respectful of wildlife. There are a number of operators offering ways to connect with the local culture and community on your trip, here are a few resources (we did not use all of them, but they are all reputable and highly regarded organisations.

• I-like Local offer a number of Farmstays, Homestays and responsible experiences
• The Blue Yonder offer trips including day activities throughout Kerala.
• Many of the accommodations listed above will be able to help you arrange activities during your stay in Wayanad.

Getting to and from Wayanad

Wayanad is easily accessible from the northern Kerala cities of Calicut (Khozikode) and Kannur. There are also connections to Cochin, Bangalore, Mysore and other major regional hubs. There are more frequent bus services to Calicut, although you can take a direct bus from Mananthadvady to Kannur. There are no railway connection to / from Wayanad. Most buses are run by KSRTC but we found the redbus website far more helpful.

Central Kerala

Kochi / cochin.

Kochi / Cochin (the town’s old name)  is one of Kerala’s most popular tourism spots and transport hubs, and so the starting point for many travellers in Kerala. It’s possible to spend many a day wandering the old lanes of Fort Cochin between colonial houses, organic cafes, art galleries, churches and boutiques. Note that Cochin is quite separate (it is an island) from the mainland town of Ernakulam, where all major transport arrives and departs from.

Things to do in Kochi

Kathakali Performances  – for many visitors, a Kathalkali performance is on their list – this is a chance to see traditional Keralan dance and music, complete with incredible makeup and costumes. The Kerala Kathakali Centre is the most authentic theatre to see this at.

Exploring Fort  Cochin –  taking in its churches, museums and even Synagogues. As an old trading and naval outpost, over the last 600 years, Kochi has seen the arrival of many immigrants of different nationalities and religions – from Portuguese to Dutch, to British to Arabic traders. There’s an Indo-Portugese museum, a Dutch cemetery, as well as several beautiful churches to explore such as the Santa-Cruz basilica. There’s also a growing number of art galleries (often with cafe), such as the Kashi Art Gallery.

Shopping –  there are plenty of artisan style shops in Fort Kochi, making it something of a shoppers paradise. Many shops sell organic toiletries and ayurveda products, and lovely Aambal is an eco clothing store  which sells hand-woven, natural and handmade and recycled fashion.

Eating –  There are plenty of cafes lining the streets of Fort Kochi, and if you’ve been on the road for a while, this is a good place to splurge on western treats aka good pizza and avocado wraps with a good latte. It does come at a price though. The local fare is much bewe dtter priced, usually more delicious, and we got bitten by the traditional Keralan Thali bug, at the Solar Cafe . For a truly authentic dining experience head to Authenticook to arrange to dine in someone’s house. We were hosted by the charming and kind Bindu at her home in Ernakulam and enjoyed a delicious brunch.

Take a day trip (or longer) to Marari Beach –  The beaches at Kochi itself are grubby (at best) but head an hour and a half or so south, and the lovely Marari beach awaits. Rent a two-wheeler and drive straight south through paddy fields, small towns, and backwater scenery. Marari beach (also known as Mararikulam) itself is as yet not very developed, and is a pretty stretch of sand with clean water for swimming. Accommodation options nearby vary widely in quality if you want to stay longer – the shacks on the beach looked decidedly dilapidated, whereas the Marari Beach hotel is fit for a king.

The Kerala Backwaters –  Kerala’s largest draw, you’ll likely be offered a backwater cruise (or two) during your time in Kochi. See more on arranging a backwaters trip below , we don’t recommend  booking it from Kochi due to high prices.

Where to Stay in Kochi

The Fort Kochi area is the place where most visitors stay – while there are plenty of hotels over in Ernakulam on the mainland that are useful for if you have an early / late bus or train to catch, most of the main attractions of Kochi are in the fort area. Homestays are the name of the game here, and the city has seen an explosion in them. Indeed you can’t walk more than a few meters without coming across a homestay sign. The word “homestay” has been applied in a liberal sense though – and these are usually just guesthouses with a number of rooms that are sold on a bed & breakfast basis, but hosts are usually very welcoming!

Because of the explosion of homestays in Fort Kochi, the centre can get a little crowded and there are no “eco-friendly” accommodation options as such in Kochi. For a quieter experience, head a little away from the fort. If travelling in December / January, book well in advance!

Check rates and book accommodation in Kochi here.  

Getting to and from Kochi

The main gateway to Kochi is Ernakulam. There are two train stations (on opposite sides of the city so please check which one your train arrives at/leaves from) Ernakulam Town (sometimes referred to as “North Railway” and Ernakulam Junction “South Railway”). Trains run north-south along the Indian coast and link directly to Mumbai, Goa, Karnataka, and southern Kerala. There are also direct trains across country to Bangalore, Chennai and even Delhi (46 hours!). Buses run routes from Ernakulam across the region.

Kochi airport is also located in Ernakulam about an hour away from Fort Kochi, and is remarkable for being fully run on solar energy! It’s a major hub and as well as domestic flights has connections to the Gulf countries, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Singapore.

Despite being one of Kerala’s major attractions this is one place that we failed to squeeze into our Kerala itinerary, except for passing through its scenic gardens. Tea is of course, the name of the game here and is the main draw, and most visitors come to soak up the ambience and enjoy being surrounded by the beauty of the tea gardens.

Munnar tea country resort is a sustainable accommodation option – they have implemented sustainable initiatives and are looking to reduce their footprint.

Find prices and book Munnar hotels here .

South Kerala

Thekkady & periyar tiger reserve.

Travelling inland and up into Kerala’s mountains – the Western Ghats – was one of the highlights of our Kerala trip. Winding through hills, tea plantations and around several hair pin bends, our bus journey (although bumpy) provided spectacular views. Thekkady is best known for Periyar National Park (or sometimes, rather optimistically known as Periyar Tiger Reserve) and many come here for a chance to see Kerala’s wildlife. It’s also, more simply, a chance to get away from the hot and humid air of the backwaters and coast.

Things to do in Thekkady and Periyar

Exploring Periyar –  Kerala’s Western Ghats are one of the largest refuges for wildlife in India, and Periyar National Park is one destination that tourists flock to, in the hopes of seeing wild elephant, leopards, tigers and more. There are various ways to explore the national park, but during our trip to Periyar  we found some to be far more enjoyable than others. While the boat trip on the lake felt like a foray into disneyland, we loved walking in the park in the early morning mist with our local guide (Periyar is one of the last remaining parks you can walk into), and we also loved our stay at Kerala’s most sustainable resort, in Thekaddy: Spice Village .

Learn about Tribal Communities near Periyar –  Periyar and the surrounding area are home to different tribal communities , including the Mannan, Paliyan and Malampandaram tribes. Such communities often leave a significantly different lifestyle from “mainstream” society, and as such are sometimes marginalised. They have an unprecedented knowledge of the forest areas, and are now benefitting from the tourism that comes from Periyar through a number of ecotourism initiatives. You can support the people who have relied on the forest in the past by taking a walk or trek with one of the village guides, or going to visit the Tribal Heritage Museum in Thekkady.

Seeing Wildlife – While we loved our visit to Thekkady and our stay, if your primary motive for visiting is to spot wildlife, you may be disappointed. Due to crowds, many animals hide deep in the forest. And we can’t say we blame them! Get the full low down on visiting Thekkady and Periyar in our post here .

Where to Stay in Thekkady and Periyar

The highlight of our time in Thekkady was without doubt our stay at the beautiful and very eco-friendly Spice Village Resort . This resort has won awards for its environmental and community initiatives, and no wonder… the resort is powered by a solar plant the size of a football pitch,  they have their own water filtering and bottling plant, a paper recycling operation (all paper you’ll find in the hotel is recycled), several types of compost, biogas, and the list goes on. It’s also a beautiful place to relax – designed as a traditional spice village, the cottages are well spaced out and set among tranquil gardens, where black monkeys and birds rest peacefully over head. You will not want to leave!

Check rates and book Spice Village Resort here . 

There are a few other small eco-friendly lodges and smaller accommodations such as Indhrivanam, a vegan and eco friendly homestay, however we did not have time to check out their credentials in person.

Check rates and book Indhrivanam here . 

Kerala Backwaters

The number one tourism draw in Kerala (and possibly southern India) are the Kerala backwaters, and the chance to take a cruise along them. Over recent years images of floating quietly and serenely through Keralan villages on a converted traditional Keralan rice barge, surveying life, warm chai in hand, have drawn in the crowds. After all, who wouldn’t be tempted by such a blissful watery escape?

Over the last ten years, crowds have flocked in steadily increasing numbers to Alleppey (Allaphuza) which – somewhat prophetically if not wistfully – has been self-dubbed as the  Venice of the East.  What were once tranquil backwaters have become noisy, congested with tourists and polluted in many parts – due to poor regulation of houseboat tourism and overcrowding. Where tourism was once seen as a blessing by locals, it has now become a bit of a curse. The inky black waters of Alleppey itself tell of a different side to the Kerala backwaters .

To Houseboat or not to Houseboat?

One of the biggest culprits in spoiling the backwaters has been houseboat tourism. There is no accurate figure for how many houseboats are currently in operation, while un-registered houseboats have been clamped down on since 2015, the number of houseboats have still been growing. In recent efforts to curb houseboat tourism growth further, Kerala tourism recently introduced a measure as part of their Kerala Responsible Tourism mission that prevented any new licences being granted for new houseboats on the Kerala backwaters. Results, however have yet to be seen, and sources say that it’s not working: when a ship retires from service, the licence is simply “recycled” for a new houseboat – meaning little to any reduction in the number of houseboats. During our time in Alleppey we saw rows on rows of houseboats moored just outside the town, hoping for customers.

So what’s the the problem with the houseboats? Essentially the damage that they cause falls into a few different categories. The most obvious is their environmental impact – 95% of houseboats are diesel powered, and that fuel often leaks into the waters. Many boats are high-end and offer air-conditioning, meaning the constant burning of fuel on board to power the boat and generators. There are no sewage treatment facilities on the boats meaning that sewage is dumped directly overboard, and there’s no waste disposal either – meaning that the plastic water bottles you drink from usually go straight over the side too.

This pollution has impacted water quality, and fishermen have reported a decline in fish and prawn stocks in areas frequented by houseboats, meaning a direct impact on the livelihood of fishing communities in the backwaters. For many villages, their only water supply is from the backwater channels themselves for cooking and even drinking – more shockingly only a fraction of villagers reported boiling or treating the water in any way before drinking it. In the agricultural sector there has been an effect too, with concerns over polluted paddy fields, damage to rice crops, and even labourers becoming reluctant to work in the polluted fields.

Then there is the noise pollution for locals from the passing boats (many of which blare (awful) music loudly), and the lack of economic or social benefit for most locals from houseboat tourism. Houseboat tourism was initially thought to provide economic benefits to locals by providing jobs on boats, but in reality the high prices that tourists pay for their houseboat experience rarely reach the villagers who need to deal with the effects of the passing boats. Rather the money goes to companies and private individuals who often own large numbers of houseboats. Granted there are jobs on the boats, but this number is small compared to the number who feel the effect of pollution in the backwaters.

For all of these reasons we decided not to go on a houseboat cruise in Alleppey or elsewhere on the Kerala backwaters, and we don’t recommend it.

Exploring the Backwaters Responsibly

But what about my backwaters dream? Worry not – there are some less damaging ways to enjoy Kerala’s watery scenery. In general, these consist of either taking public ferry routes that are already in service, and/or staying on land next to the backwaters. Choosing to use existing infrastructure helps to keep our footprint lower and brings more benefit to locals, particularly in the case of choosing to stay in existing accommodation, particularly if it is homestays or on a small scale.

One of the best places to stay next to the backwaters and enjoy all their beauty, without supporting houseboats is Kumarakom – more on that below!

Alleppey (Allappuzha)

Alleppey is backpacker central and ground zero for backwater cruises – expect wherever you stay to persist with offering you houseboat services during your stay. We however enjoyed our time in Alleppey (we spent nearly a week there) and found it to be a great town for unwinding, with good wifi for when we needed to catch up on work, good food, and plenty of facilities.

Things to do in Alleppey

The Beach – away from the backwaters scene, Alleppey is blessed in being located both on the ocean with its own long beach, and on the edge of the backwaters. The beach itself is a nice stretch, and has a number of accommodation options, and cafes. We loved strolling the beach at evening time when the bhaji and chai wallahs come out to sell their tasty snacks, and the beach becomes a popular gathering point for families and couples. The beach is reportedly safe for swimming although take care as the waves can get strong. The beach is quite touristy and you’ll see plenty of pale skinned visitors in their swimwear, but we recommend ladies to cover up with a sarong while not swimming.

Take the Local Ferry  – ferries go on a number of different routes leaving from Alleppey and are a chance to see the backwaters, the local way. We took the morning ferry to Kottayam (3 hours) and returned the same day at 3pm from Kottayam to Alleppey. It made for quite a long day on the boat, but we loved the experience of sitting in the well ventilated boat and seeing local life. The 3pm return ferry to Alleppey was filled with school children ( please do not give them pens as this encourages begging from tourists ) giving us plenty of opportunity to chat and practice their English. You can find the Kerala Water Transport Dept schedules here .

Go on a Walk of Old Alleppey –  The Award Winning Preserve Alleppey Society , started by a group of local ladies, was created due to the need to preserve the character of Alleppey. In a country where it is uncommon for women to be able to work as guides or in tourism, this is a cause well worth supporting to encourage the work of women in tourism, and also to see the original character of Alleppey. The ladies offer guided walks of Alleppey and cooking classes.

Where to Stay in Alleppey

Like other tourism hotspots, Alleppey has seen a surge in accommodation options over recent years, and is suffering from the problem of too many homestays and hotels being opened. When we visited, homestays were complaining of being empty (despite us visiting in January – supposedly high season). Homestays also vary hugely in quality. We moved quickly from our first homestay which we did not like until we found Heritage Homestay (below).

We loved our time at Heritage Homestay – a very simple, locally owned place with two big and airy rooms at the front – which immediately felt like home to us. Run by the charming and very kind Johnny and his team, the homestay is located about 10 minutes walk from the beach.

Check prices and book Heritage Homestay here .

Nestled on the opposite bank of Lake Vembanad from Alleppey, Kumarakom is the perfect place to slow down and experience the backwaters (from shore) at their most peaceful. The lake is large and looks like an inland sea, providing the perfect backdrop for beautiful sunsets over the water. Kumarakom is also one of the locations where Kerala tourism is implementing more sustainable measures: many hotels and tour companies are part of an initiative to minimise their environmental impact and make sure that products are procured locally where possible, helping to maximise the economic benefit that goes back to locals.

Things to do in Kumarakom

Enjoy life at a slow pace – possibly the best thing to do in Kumarakom is – not much! Our best memories were of sitting back and watching the sunset from the serenity of Coconut Lagoon (below). Taking a quiet stroll along the backwaters and through villages is a great way to get a sense of local life here.

Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary –  This is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India, with many rare species being sighted particularly during the monsoon months of June, July and August.

Where to Stay in Kumarakom

We loved our stay at Coconut Lagoon , one of CGH Earth’s most beautiful properties. The experience here is unique, the only way to arrive and leave here is by boat. The resort has been hard at work at sustainability too, and is part of the Kumarakom responsible tourism initiatives. Wake up to the sight of passing boats and the resort’s own rare breed “lawnmowers” (aka cows). There’s also a renowned Ayurveda centre on property.

Find more info and book Coconut Lagoon here .

Getting to and from Kumarakom

One way to reach Kumarakom is by boat, there is a ferry service to Muhamma on the other side of Lake Vembanand, near Marari beach. Services are not that regular though, so you may find taxi / private transfer is the easiest way to get here. There is no train station or direct buses to Kumarakom. 

Kollam (formerly known as Quillon) is another quiet alternative for exploring Kerala’s backwaters, this time from the southern end, and it’s also a colourful former fishing town set on the Arabian sea. It’s a great place to get off Kerala’s beaten tourist path for a couple of days if you want something a bit different. Outside our guesthouse, we didn’t see any other foreigners during the three days we spent here. 

Things to do in Kollam

Ashtamudi Lake –  Away from from the beach and on the other side of Kollam lies Ashtamudi lake, which forms the southern end of Kerala’s backwaters. The lake offers opportunities for boat trips to Monroe island in the lake and exploring village life – there are fishing villages dotted around the lake. The government run boat trips are cheaper than the same itinerary offered by private companies. There’s also a ferry that goes all the way to Alleppey from Kollam. 

Beach & Tangasseri Lighthouse –  head a little south of the centre of Kollam and there’s a beach (nothing spectacular) and a pretty fishing harbour filled with colourful boats. Tangasseri lighthouse, standing tall in red and white stripes is a good lookout point across the town and out to sea – climb up the stairs for your daily dose of cardio. A visit just before sunset provides the best light. 

Where to Stay in Kollam

We struck gold with our choice of Ashtamudi Villas, a small and peaceful retreat with about eight bungalows on the banks of Ashtamudi lake. The resort is largely eco-friendly, with a focus on using natural materials and reducing waste, and it is the perfect spot for lounging in the gardens in a hammock and just reading a book while fishermen pass in their dug out canoes just a few meters away. Mr Joseph, the owner, also runs boat trips to small channels and villages around the lake. 

Find more info and book Ashtamudi Villas here .  

In the south of Kerala along the Arabian sea, Varkala is fast becoming the new hippie destination of south India – some would say the next Goa. Set atop cliffs, Varkala is the place for sunsets, yoga, ayurveda and perfect turmeric lattes. We didn’t make it to Varkala, but given the number of people who told us we should go, we thought we’d include it in this guide! If you have tips to add, let us know in the comments section below. Alcohol is officially not permitted in Varkala, although you may find some places serving it. Seeing as tourism in Varkala is booming, so is a problem with plastic waste and (over) development. Please do your bit by avoiding plastic bottles wherever possible. 

Need a bit more help with your Kerala trip? We recommend G Adventures Tours. Find out more here!

Things to do in Varkala

The Beach –  we’ll start with the obvious, many come to Varkala to sit back and enjoy some sun, sea and sand. Varkala’s beach is set below cliffs – beaches become quieter and cleaner if you venture further north or south from town. Do watch out for currents and big waves while swimming as the waters here are known to be treacherous. 

Take to the Waves –  Surfing outfit Soul & Surf (who we loved during our visit to Sri Lanka ) offer surfing retreats, courses and lessons combined with yoga, massage and music. They work to minimise their impact and work with as many locals as possible. Their base in Varkala is at the top of the cliff, with prime view out to the ocean. More info here . 

Anjengo Fort & Lighthouse –  Sometimes spelt as Anchuthengu, 10km south of Varkala, this fort was built in 1696 as the first Malabar stronghold for the British East India company. Climb up the nearby lighthouse for views down onto the fort and coastline. 

Eat and Juice your way around town –  Varkala is full of trendy juice bars and organic cafes (the wifi may or not work), perfect for reading a book or a day away from the beach. 

Take time for yourself  with a yoga or ayurveda retreat – Ayurveda and Yoga options about in Varkala and there are many to choose from. Some offer one off treatments whereas others offer week+ long detox programs. Book Ayurveda and Yoga retreats in Varkala here . 

Where to Stay in Varkala

Puccini Lala Eco resort has an art cafe and eco friendly mud rooms, and is a conscious / sustainable living concept. They also offer healing and cooking classes. 

More info and book Puccini Lala here . 

The Bohemian Masala is an alternative eco retreat that has been built as handcrafted tribal herbal cottages – using a mixture of mud and traditional ayurvedic herbs that are sure to provide a restful and healing night’s sleep. The huts are set in gardens filled with hammocks and quiet spots for reading and relaxation. 

More info and book Bohemian Masala here . 

Getting to and from Varkala

The best way to reach and leave Varkala is by train; trains leave for Kollam, Alleppey and Ernakulam to the north, and to Trivandrum to the south (which has regular connections). There are also buses to Trivandrum and Kollam. 

Have you been to Kerala or are you adding it to your “ bucket list”? Let us know about your Kerala experiences in the comments below. 

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The Best Kerala Itinerary for 7 Days or More

Last Updated on April 17, 2024

In this post, I’ll share with you the best road trip itinerary for Kerala based on my experience of travelling to the state again and again in the last 6 years.

Kerala is a culturally rich, liberal, and breathtakingly beautiful state of southern India. It’s vastly different from the northern side of India both in landscape and cuisine. So, planning what to do here on a limited time can be overwhelming.

I will help with your Kerala trip planning with an itinerary for Kerala for 7 days with ideas to modify it for longer or even shorter durations.

If you already have a basic knowledge about the state, then jump to the Kerala itinerary .

I’ ve tried to cover all bases in the post to help you plan a trip to Kerala . Expand the table of contents below and jump to the relevant section if you want to.

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

A Quick Outline

The Best 1-week Kerala Itinerary at a glance

While you can tweak as per your liking after reading the full article, this is the plan I recommend for your first vacation in Kerala.

Day 1: Reach Kochi via train or flight and then hire a cab (or rent a self-drive car) for your Kerala trip. Explore Kochi and end the day with a Kathakali performance.

Day 2: Drive to Alleppey or Kumarakom and stay in a houseboat. It’s time to rejuvenate in luxury after the hectic sightseeing at Kochi.

Day 3 & 4: Drive to Munnar on day 3 and explore the exceptional beauty of nature. You will need to stay at-least 2 nights in this resplendent hill station.

Day 5: Drive to Thekkady for wildlife safari and to witness the Kalarypayattu performance.

Day 6: Drive to Kovalam for some luxury experiences, much needed after the hectic sightseeing in the hills

Day 7: Drive to Trivandrum for exploring the historic charms and shopping before you depart.

In a 10-day Kerala itinerary you can include a day-trip to the Athirapally waterfalls from Kochi. From Thekkady you can drive to Varkala – an offbeat coastal paradise.

From Varkala you can easily visit the Jatayu Earth center – a new landmark in Kerala. Then drive to Kovalam the next day and depart from Trivandrum on the 10th day.

You can go slightly off-the-beaten track even in a packed 7-day Kerala tour. Skip the wildlife experience in Thekkady for a day trip to Athirapally waterfall. Or stay near the Varkala beach instead of Kovalam.

First time in Kerala? I recommend booking Kerala tour with Sangine Holidays . You can ask them to customise based on your preferences.

2 Weeks Itinerary for Kerala Roadtrip

Most of the tourist destinations and international airports are concentrated in the southern part of Kerala. So, most of the shorter Kerala tours are also designed to explore the south. Entire northern half of Kerala is therefore left out in my 7 and 10-day itinerary above.

If you can plan 2 weeks in Kerala , you could see how the culture and cuisine transform as we move from north Kerala towards the south, even in this rather tiny state.

Northern Kerala towards the Karnataka border has a strong Arabic influence in their culture, architecture and cuisine. Here you’re more likely to get the best type of non-vegetarian dishes like Keralite biryani, chicken curry etc.

As you move towards the south you notice a distinct change. Towards the hills in the south there is a dominant influence of Hinduism. You’ll find a plethora of pure vegetarian restaurants serving Appam-ishtew, idli, iddiyappam etc . 

On the coastline, there is a larger European influence in the monuments but also a blend of old Hindu culture as seen in the attire and performances. So, here’s how I’d plan a longer itinerary of Kerala for 2 weeks .

Day 1: Take a train or overnight bus to Kasargod from Bangalore or anywhere else.

Day 2: Explore Bekal Fort , beaches and backwaters of Kasargod

Day 3: Drive (or take a bus) to Sultan Bathery in Wayanad . Take a wildlife safari there

Day 4: Visit Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagara Dam in Wayanad

Day 5: Trek to Chembra Peak in the morning. Have a brunch and drive to Palakkad

Day 6: Explore Palakkad – Palakkad Fort, Malampuzha Dam and Hanuman Temple

Day 7: Drive to Kochi via Athirapally falls

Day 8: Exploring Kochi

Day 9: Drive 126 km to Alleppey and take a houseboat tour

Day 10: Explore Alleppey and drive to Munnar

Day 11: Exploring the best of Munnar and Chinnakanal

Day 12: Skip Thekkady and drive to Varkala

Day 13: Take a memorable day trip to Munroe Island

Day 14: Explore Varkala and drive to Kovalam

Day 15: Drive to Trivandrum for departure

🙋‍♀️Want to custom-design your Kerala itinerary and have some questions? Join the awesome Backpack & Explore Facebook community – a safe place to discuss all your queries and concerns about traveling in India

A quick note on name of the places

Because of the colonial history of India, many popular destinations have an anglicized name that were coined by the European colonizers. The names have been reversed to their original form post indepedence.

However, because of the complex pronunciation, people unofficially refer to them by their anglicized names. So, before you get confused by these names, here is a short lexicon of Kerala’s cities for you.

• Cochin is the anglicized name for Kochi (which is not at all difficult to pronounce)
• Calicut is the anglicized name of Kozhikhode (pronounced as “koh-ree-kode”)
• Trivandrum, the capital of the state of Kerala is the anglicized name of Thiruvananthapuram (a proper tongue-twister challenge for foreigners)
• Alleppey is the anglicized name of Alappuzha , city in the namesake district

One Week in Kerala – The Plan in Details

So, let’s dive deeper into the wilderness of Kerala and take a virtual tour that will make you fall in love with the state.

Day 1 in Kerala – Arrive at the Historic Kochi

Kochi is the unofficial tourism and cultural capital of Kerala. It has a well-connected railway station as well as an international airport. So, this is a great place to start your trip.

As soon as you arrive, bargain the rates for a local cab. Normally the rates start from Rs. 12/km for lower-end 4-seater cars, and the fares would go up for the type of car, number of seats, travel season, night rates etc.

You can check the rates here to have a fair idea of the current rates and avoid being scammed.

Kochi is a bustling modern city haunted by a long, intriguing history. It’s the place believed to be Vasco da Gama’s passage to India .

Then there’s the oldest Jewish quarters in India that you can find in Kochi, the Pardesi Synagogue standing as a tall testimony to the thousand years of religious tolerance in India.

There are the Dutch Palace , Portuguese churches as well as remnants of the Bristish colonialism. And thriving despite centuries of brutal invasions and colonial atrocities are the age-old pagan art forms that you can witness through dance performances, artefacts in the markets and music.

Kochi’s beauty lies not in its architectural grandeur but in the unique stories behind the buildings, the streets and corners.

Kochi Sightseeing Plan

Assuming you reached Kochi at around 10 am, you can drive directly to Mattancherry Palace . The Mattancherry Palace also known as the Dutch Palace was actually a monument gifted by the Portuguese to the Indian raja. It was later extended and renovated by the Dutch in 17th century.

After a tour of the palace, enjoy a walking tour of the Jew Town and visit the Pardesi Synagogue .

Then drive back to Fort Kochi . There are some amazing places here for having a delicious lunch.

I have created a map here for a walking tour of Kochi.

The best way to explore Kochi in one or two days is with a local tour guide. Check our my recommendations below.

🌟A guided walking tour of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry with a local

🌟A private tuktuk tour with hotel pickup. This is suitable for people of all ages and small families

Stay near Fort Kochi , so that you can easily walk to the beach to see the photogenic Chinese fishing nets in the evening during the golden hour. Then return to Fort Kochi for dinner and an enthralling Kathakali dance performance in the Kerala Kathakali Center. It is one of the eight classical dance forms in India and also one of the most difficult dance forms in the world.

Best places to Stay in Kochi

Hotel Marine Inn – A 5-star luxury hotel located at the Marine Drive, in close proximity to Kochi’s highlights Casino Hotel – CGH church – A sustainable 5-star luxury property located midway between Marine Drive and the Dutch Palace. In the mid-range and budget category, Fort Bridge View hotel located in Fort Kochi is the perfect place.

Check out other options and get best prices below.

Day 2 – Relax in the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarkom

After an exhausting, yet fulfilling day exploring Kochi, it’s time to relax in the backwaters of Kerala. Today we will drive 55km to Alleppey, often touted as the Venice of India .

But before that we can wake up early and walk to the beach to catch a glimpse of the sunrise and explore the morning markets.

After a wholesome breakfast at hotel, we set out for Alleppey or Kumarakom. They are on two sides of the Vembanad lake – the largest natural lake in India.

You can either stay in a houseboat or in a hotel on the banks of Vembanad lake . 

A day in Alleppey

Assuming that you started from Kochi at around 10 am you will reach comfortably by 11:30 am. Kochi is a bustling city with heavy traffic, so we need to account for that time.

Take a boat-ride for 3-6 hours to explore the beauty of canals, watch the birds enjoying the sun and the blossoms of the lake, and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

While on your boat or Shikara, visit the Pathiramanal island to say “hi” to the thousands of birds that flock into the magical backwaters during winter.

Stop midway at a village, to relish on sea-food prepared with fresh catch of the day mixed with Kerala’s spices. If you book a houseboat for stay you can have a traditional fish-meal for lunch in the boat itself.

On our trip, we stayed in a lakeside cottage and hired a shikara for maneuvering through the narrow canals and have lunch at one of the villages on the lakeside.

After the soulful trip, take some rest in the afternoon to avoid the scorching sun. Then drive to explore the beaches, churches and temples of Alleppey.

Next visit the Alleppey lighthouse, Alleppey beach and the loveliest Marari beach at sunset.

Once again, a paid trip will help you optimize your short time in Alleppey. These are the best-rated tours.

🌟 A 6-hour private Shikara cruise through the canals and lakes of Alleppey

🌟 There’s a popular 2-day houseboat trip from Kochi to Alleppey to explore the backwaters of Alleppey and then return to Kochi Port.

Best places to Stay in Alleppey

Lemontree Vembanad Resort

☑️Affordable luxury ☑️Houseboat and Cottages

A 4-star luxury hotel on the banks of Vembanad lake, with options to stay in houseboat as well as lake-view cottages. You can read my full review here

Xandari Riverscapes

☑️Organised houseboat tours

A fleet of luxurious houseboats floating in the backwaters of Kerala.

Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey

While I haven’t stayed here, I have always been impressed by the hospitality at Sterling properties in India. They are great options for affordable luxury accommodations .

Day 3 in Kerala trip plan: Drive to Munnar

Munnar is one of my favorite places in India. I think it is the best hill station in south India which despite the hype, manages to leave you awestruck at its raw natural beauty.

Speckled with waterfalls, adorned by lush green tea gardens, and pine forests, and surrounded by lofty hills, Munnar does seem like God’s own country.

While most people stick to places near the Munnar town, the outskirts, especially the Chinnakanal region is breathtaking.

On Day 3, you have to drive about 180 km from Alleppey to reach Munnar. While driving you will bid goodbye to the coastal warmth and move higher towards the hills.

As you enter the serpentine roads of the Western Ghats , turn off the AC and wind down the windows of your car.

The temperature has suddenly dropped, and the scenery has completely changed within a 4-hour drive. Watch out for the scenic viewpoints at every turn.

Try not to stop everywhere you want to, lest you get late, or the driver gets annoyed.

Don’t have a fixed itinerary for the day. Rather just stop and absorb the beauty around you wherever you can.

I highly recommend staying away from the city center and close to some tea garden. Keep an eye for the numerous waterfalls as well while driving to your hotel.

Best places to Stay in Munnar

The beautiful park in Sterling Munnar, covered in green is full of great activities for Children

Sterling Munnar

☑️Family Activities ☑️Best Location

Located in Chinnakanal area right opposite to the Tata Tea Garden, this is where we stayed on our second trip to Munnar. A perfect place to stay on a family vacation, with great activities for kids as well as the elderly.

Elephant Passage Resort

☑️5-star luxury ☑️Great Views

Located 25km from city center, this is the most affordable 5-star luxury you can get in Munnar. There’s jacuzzi rooms, infinity pool and great views of nature.

Day 4 – Exploring Munnar

After a fulfilling brunch at hotel or outside, you can set off for a long exhausting tour of Munnar. One day may not be enough, but here’s an itinerary covering the most memorable places in Munnar.

Drive to Eravikulam National Park right after breakfast. You need to set aside at least 2-3 hours for the trip, because of the long queue for tickets, the safari bus-ride and exploring on foot.

The beauty of this sensitive Nilgiri-biosphere is awe-inspiring. You will lose the idea of time while exploring the waterfalls and spotting the Niligiri tahr (an endangered species of animal found here) while walking in the forest. 

After this, head to Kanan Devan hills for a tour of the Tea factory

Then drive to Mattupetty Dam . If it is too crowded (which likely it will be), then drive to Kundala lake for a boat ride. 

And then, skip Top Station and save yourself some time for the other spectacles.

Similarly, if you want to watch the elephants, Carmelagiri is a touristy location where you can ride on them. But a more offbeat place for Elephant sighting is the Anayirangal Park (aka the Elephant Abode) in Chinnakanal . For more such tips and detailed guidance on your Munnar trip, check out my Munnar itinerary .

Like any other hill stations, most places close by 5pm. Stop at the Lockhart viewpoint on your way back to the hotel.

Shall I tell you a secret?

Skip the tea factory tours in Munnar and instead head to Kolukkumalai in the early morning.

Technically it’s in Tamil Nadu state, but Chinnakanal is the closest getway to this hidden paradise on earth which also has one of the world’s oldest and higest tea-factory .

Take a tea factory tour here instead after a bumpy jeep-ride.

Day 5 – Thrilling Thekkady

Thekkady is situated only 90 km away from Munnar, but it can take about 2.5 – 3 hours to reach because of the hair-pin belts. It is the home to Periyar National Park, the abode of Royal Bengal tigers among many other stealthy predators.

It’s also significant for religious pilgrims as this is where the trek to the Ayappa Temple of Sabrimala begins.

Make sure you stay close to the Periyar National Park which is the center of all the activities in Thekkady itinerary.

Thekkady Sightseeing Plan

Assuming you started from Munnar at 9-9:30, it will be almost noon by the time your reach Thekkady.

Head to the reception of the Periyar National Park and get the brochure for all activities they offer and their timings

First you can go on a jeep ride through the tea and spice plantations. It will also take you to Ottakathalamedu, a hill-top from where you cans see magnificent panoramic views.

Then, after a quick lunch it will be time for the unmissable Periyar Lake Cruise . You will see a host of migratory birds in the lake, deer and antelopes on the banks, and, if lucky, you have a chance to spot elephants here too. 

Spend the evening shopping in Kumily and then head on to Mudra Cultural Centre to witness Kalaripayattu . This is an ancient martial art form which is both brave and beautiful.

If you have the energy, you can also book a thrilling night safari in the forest. Or simply rest at night; you’ve had a long day already.

Best places to Stay in Thekkady

Abad Green Forest Resort ☑️Best Location

Located in the Periyar National Park area, this 4-star property is the best place for luxury jungle experience.

Chrissie’s hotel ☑️Pocket-friendly

This is one of the most popular pocket-friendly property near Periyar National Park. It’s also pet-friendly!

Day 6 – Pamper yourself at Kovalam

Our trip is coming to an end soon. But don’t be sad as it’s time to drive to Kovalam. Located approximately 215 kilometers (134 miles) from Thekkady, it will take around 5-6 hours by road.

While like everywhere else in Kerala there’s a plethora of options available for different budget types, I highly recommend booking a beach-side spa resort in Kovalam.

In most places in Kerala you can easily stay in budget hotels and explore outdoors all day. But Kovalam and the Alappuzha regions are famous for Ayurvedic Spa and medicinal treatment. Why not pamper yourself a bit here?

Kovalam itinerary for the day

Assuming you started from Thekkady at 9 am, it will be almost 3pm by the time you reach Kovalam.

You can stop for lunch on your way to the hotel, or have lunch immediately after checking in.

You can then head off to the  three beautiful beaches of Kovalam  – the  Lighthouse beach , the  Hawah beach  and the  Samudra beach . You can trek to the short cliffs for capturing amazing views.

You can spend the entire evening strolling in the beaches or go for an  Ayurvedic spa massage .

Best places to Stay in Kovalam

🥇 Raviz Kovalam (formerly Leela Kovalam)

☑️Stunning Location ☑️5-star Luxury

Located at the cliff-top the views from this hotel is heavenly. The water looks vanilla-blue from here.

Samudra Leisure beach resort

☑️Pocket-friendly☑️Spa available

At nearly half the rate of Raviz or Taj, you can enjoy luxury at pocket-friendly rate . This also has a wellness center for Ayurvedic spa.

Day 7: Bidding goodbye from Trivandrum

The last day of a vacation always makes your heart heavy. But don’t worry, we still have a lot to do today before we depart from Trivandrum in the evening. 

It is located only 19 km away from Kovalam and you can reach easily within 30 minutes through the smooth coastal road. But before that we will take a detour to Poovar, a floating town in the Poovar lake near Kovalam.

After a delectable lunch in the Poovar island you can drive to the airport for final departure.

A guide to Kerala Trip Planning

Now that you have your Kerala trip plan and a detailed 7-day itinerary of Kerala, I want to share some practical information to help you travel. Here are a few travel tips and trivia about Kerala that you need to know before going on this vacation.

How to reach Kerala?

Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road. There are three main international airports located in Kochi , Trivandrum , and Calicut respectively. Several railway stations connect Kerala to other parts of India.

All the destinations mentioned here can be covered on the most scenic road trips from Bangalore , the city where I live in.

🚙 🚗 Rent a  Zoomcar  for self-driving all the way in Kerala 🚔

Going around in Kerala

While I’m all for exploring India solo, I get that it can be a bit overwhelming if you’re not a local. So, your best bet is to rent a cab with an English-speaking driver.

But hey, if you’re up for a little adventure, local transport like KSTDC buses work great for inter-city travel, and tuk-tuks are your go-to for getting around town.

If you’re the kind who likes to take the wheel, you can also book a self-drive car. Just make sure to download the maps and have an online translator app handy.

📲 Getting simcard is difficult in India for foreign nationals. The easiest way to stay connected is with an India e-sim . 🤳

Cuisine and Dining in Kerala

While you have a plethora of “safe” options in most hotels in India, Kerala’s authentic cuisine is a must-try.

Rice is the staple food of Kerala and most of the dishes are just the most innovative, mind-boggling ways you can use rice. These are my favorite Keralite dishes.

• Kerala porotta aka Malabar porota(a white-flour Indian bread) with fish-curry
• Appam-stew ( Appam is a type of pancake made of fermented rice flour and coconut milk which is usually had with a vegetable stew)
• Iddiyappam with curry (looks like idli made of rice noodles)
• Puttu with curry (Putti is a cylindrical shaped steamed rice cake)
• Karimeen Fry
• Bamboo chicken biriyani

Although known for sumptuous sea food and one of the few states in India where beef preparations are mainstream, Kerala is actually a great place for vegans.

Many of the authentic dishes as you can see in my list above use only vegan ingredients sourced locally.

If you have time, and want to do something memorable, take a home cooking class of Kerala cuisine

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is between November to January . This is the winter season, when coastal Kerala is still hot but comfortable. Rest of the year is extremely hot and humid, except for the Western Ghats region.

If you want to spend most of the time in the Western Ghats of Kerala, you can visit any time of the year.

In fact, if you want to see the famous boatrace in Alapuzha , you should plan your trip around August . This is the peak monsoon season, so temperatures cool down significantly. It will still be humid in the coastal region, but the hills will look spectacular.

The boat races are held as part of the “Onam” celebrations. It is the harvest festival of Kerala, and one of the most important days in Malaylam Calendar.  ( Malaylam is the native language of Kerala, also the native culture).

Just check for the weather reports before embarking on road-trip in the monsoon . 

A few more Frequently Asked Questions Answered

How many days are enough for kerala.

You cover the best of Kerala on a tight schedule in 7 days. This is usually the most practical time-frame most people have for spending in one state of India.

If you can extend your stay to 10 days, you will have more time to explore some of the destinations and enjoy some excursions.

If you are on an India tour and can’t afford a week for Kerala , 5 days should be enough to enjoy the unmissable experiences – natural beauty of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom and the pristine beaches of Kovalam along with some cultural performances.

Ofcourse the longer you stay the better.

How to explore Kerala in 5 days?

A Kerala trip plan for 5 days should ideally have 1 day in Kochi for historic sightings, 1-day Alleppey for experiencing the backwaters and some amazing clean beaches and 2 days in Munnar for blissful Western Ghats experience.

On day 5, drive from Munnar to Kochi via Athirapally Falls. That’s what I suggest because I love Munnar. However, you can squeeze in Thekkady on Day 3 and skip Athirapally Falls.

If you are visiting Kerala for the first time and have only 5 days, I highly recommend this packed 5-day Kerala trip by Saffron India Tours .

What souvenirs can I bring back from Kerala?

You can bring the best quality of Indian spices – cardamom, cloves, cinnamon etc. What most people would ask me to bring whenever I travel to Kerala is “ Banana chips “. These thinly slices dried bananas deep-fried in coconut oil is a delicacy that can travel with you back to your home easily.

Besides I highly recommend buying Kerala cotton or Kerala silk sari. You can also buy “ Mundu ” for men in the same material. The white saris or mundu with golden border is a specialty.

Is Kerala safe for solo travelling?

Kerala is one of the safest states in India for tourists. Women usually don’t face lecherous stares or bad behavior in public places in Kerala. You are less likely to be scammed as a tourist. Only thing that scares me is the speed at which people drive in the hills in Kerala.

How expensive is Kerala?

In my experience I have found Kerala more expensive than the other states of south India when it comes to tourism. It is certainly the most famous tourist destination in south, and the tariff for cabs, fun-activities, etcetera is relatively higher.

Having said that it is completely affordable for budget backpackers with good hostels and homestays starting from Rs. 1000/- per day.

You cover the best of Kerala on a tight schedule in 7 days. This is usually the most practical time-frame most people have for spending in one state of India. If you can extend your stay to 10 days, you will have more time to explore some of the destinations and enjoy some excursions. If you are on an India tour and can’t afford a week for Kerala , 5 days should be enough to enjoy the unmissable experiences – natural beauty of Munnar, the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom and the pristine beaches of Kovalam along with some cultural performances.

Closing Thoughts

I hope this article inspires you to travel to this amazing state and make memories of a lifetime. I will leave you with a list of my favorite travel sites for travel planning in India. 

If you liked this post, you may also find these articles interesting.

Best of Karnataka – One state, many worlds

Best of Enchanting Tamil Nadu

I have already linked detailed itineraries to the places mentioned in my post. But here they are again for you to read and save for later.

Munnar travel guide

Thekkady travel guide

Wayanad itinerary

Kasargod (Bekal) travel guide

Top Travel Sites in India for 2024

🏨 Booking.com  for the best hotel prices (Price match and free cancellations)

🚗Get discounts on package tours and special experiences with Viator

💸Secure your vacation with travel insurance from Visitors Coverage

🚗Book local transport on 12Go

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For hostels around the world, check out Hostelworld

🛍️ Myntra for travel fashion and Amazon for travel gear

Liked the post? Please share with your friends and family, and plan the trip now. Or you can save this guide to plan later.

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Author Alice is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. She shares her travel stories and exclusive practical tips on Backpack & Explore, that you won't find anywhere else.

17 Comments

Wow! I never realized all there is to do in this region, and I love the itinerary. Thanks for the pointers and great list of things to see and do!

Thanks a lot Meggie.

I have been to Kerala 23 years ago! I really loved it but I was only there for a very short time. I remember seeing the houseboats on the backwaters and thinking I’d like to come back someday and do that. This is excellent information you have provided. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you so much for reading. Hope you come for another trip.

That’s a long time. I hope you come again to see what has changed and spend a night in the houseboat

I’ve had the opportunity to visit Kerala on four occasions within the past three years, and each visit brings forth a fresh allure. My most recent visit o Kovalam refreshed me for at least the next couple of months.

Thanks for this comprehensive post. Now I know what exactly to look for in my next trip.

Great post! The thing that draws me to Kerala is how lush, green and gorgeous the natural landscape can be. Places like the waterfalls at Munnar are just stunning and it would be fantastic to see all the wildlife. Oh, and then the food! 😀

Thank you so much. I hope you visit soon

Wow that beach view is amazing – did you have a favorite one? I have never heard of Kerala but have enjoyed reading about it as I am trying to learn more about the different states of India. Will be saving this for my trip to India!

Thanks a lot Natalie. My favorite beach in Kerala is Kovalam. I love the Marari beach too. Glad to help further if you’re planing a trip to Kerala

What a stunning place to visit- those waterfalls are amazing. And I would definitely love to take a boat ride to see elephants, how awesome!!

What a wonderful guide — so much excellent information!

And the history of the region — I never knew! Thank you!

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts

Munnar and tea gardens are sooo on my list! I was planning a visit in 2019 while working remotely from Pune, but didn’t get around to it, as work got too busy. But looking at your recommendations, definitely a must-visit!

thanks a lot Alina Hope you get to take this trip soon

I love the Munnar waterfall as well as the idea of a 6 hour cruise! The animals look cute and so glad you can see them from the bus.

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Kerala Tourism And Travel Guide

Also known as God’s Own Country, the south Indian state is blessed with rivers, fertile land, and a rich history unique to the region. Kerala is home to a diverse atmosphere, topographically and culturally. From the Western Ghats and hill stations, to its elaborate coastal towns, and its famous lakes and backwaters, tourism in Kerala has a lot to offer to the wandering soul. Outlined below is a travel guide to Kerala, one that is made especially to help you navigate this land of backwaters at a glance.

How To Reach

An important trade centre, Kerala has many well established Road, Rail and Air routes that you can take to reach the state. Interestingly, the state also has a number of water routes available too!

The major International Airports in Kerala are located in Kochi , Trivandrum and Calicut. There are buses to different parts of the state from each of these airports.

Almost every part of Kerala is connected by railways, except for the Ghats section (hilly terrain). Southern Railways has it's own charm and the vertically spanned state of Kerala is thoroughly meshed with railway lines ensuring easy inter-state connectivity. The tickets aren't too expensive either.

Kerala has good and well-maintained roads. The state has 11 National highways and about 70 state highways crisscrossing the terrain. An added advantage is the scenic beauty that runs along the roadways. There are many bus services from different states to Kerala and within the state there is another network of state government buses. 

• How To Reach Kerala

Best Time To Visit

Due to its diverse terrain, different parts of Kerala experience different weather conditions, but all in all the whole state is characterised by tropical climatic conditions. In the summers it can get pretty hot and humid, especially along the coasts; this however, would be a great time to visit the hill stations of Ponmudi, Munnar , Wayanad , etc.

During the monsoon season it tends to get a little too wet, but this is not much of a hindrance, as Kerala in the rains is genuinely beautiful and worth witnessing. Winter is the best time to visit Kerala and the temperatures are just perfect for a lovely vacation.

• Kerala Weather And Best Time To Visit Kerala

Things To Do

Kerala has a unique culture. You will find the rural areas still holding on to their age old customs, at the same time the urban areas are catching up with other modern metro cities. There's something on offer for all types of travellers in Kerala.

Cultural Destinations: 

Kerala, with its ancient Indian history and unique literary, architectural and cultural heritage, has a lot to offer to culture lovers. Explore the cultural heritage of a land which was ruled by some of the great dynasties that reigned in the region.

Palaces and Forts:

Visit the stunning Bekal Fort, The Mattancherry Palace, Krishnapuram Palace, Koyikkal Palace, Kilimanur Palace and Fort Immanuel and be stunned by Kerala's historical heritage.

Sight-Seeing:

With multitudes of rivers, backwaters and exotic house boats, Kerala is filled with opportunities to spend time in the lap of nature. Some must visit places are Munnar and its vast tea estates, Wayanad and its tea and coffee estates, the Alappuzha backwaters and house boats, Kannur beaches, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kovalam beaches, Palakkad and its forests, the list goes on.   

• 10 Top Things To Do In Kerala
• 6 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Kerala

Every nook and corner of Kerala is dotted with restaurants with local delicacies to try. At breakfast you should try the appam and the number of curry options that come with it, or puttu, also called bamboo cake, which is a favourite among Malayalis. You must also try out the different Tapioca preparations and the different fish curries and fries that are coastal specialties. Of course, you cannot miss all the tender coconut vendors lining the roads; if there is one cure to the Kerala heat, it’s this miracle drink. Also, if you're in Calicut, try some of the best Malabar style Biryani (pictured above) at Paragon restaurant. 

• Food of Kerala

When it comes to shopping in Kerala make sure you have a big shopping bag - from spices to honey to tea and coffee, everything that makes food taste good can be bought here!

Spices:  You will be able to buy most spices at any market in Kerala but when it comes to being organic and really fragrant, Kumily is the place to go . It happens to be a beautiful hill station too.

Tea and Coffee: The tea and coffee grown along the slopes of the Western Ghats have a spectacularly strong flavour and incidentally if you strike a good bargain, it can have spectacularly cheap rates! The best places to buy them are at Munnar and Wayanad .

Also, while you are in Kerala, different regions offer different specialties, sometimes you find shops selling knives that were cast out of old swords, and sometimes you run into stores selling oils and essences, or Ayurvedic medicines. Keep an eye out for some really quaint offerings in Kerala.

Before You Go... Got Questions?

Find the best kerala packages from top travel agents.

10 days road trip in Kerala: An itinerary and Guide

Last Updated on December 5, 2023 by admin

Planning a Kerala Itinerary across the state? This blog on 10 days road trip in Kerala covers all the Kerala highlights for first-time visitors. This classic Kerala tour covers Central and South Kerala tourist destinations.

The first thing that comes to mind when someone says Kerala is the backwaters against the swaying coconut and palm trees. However, there is much more to Kerala than that – the beautiful architecture and heritage of Fort Kochi , tea estates of Munnar , spice plantations of Thekkady , wildlife sanctuaries in Shola forests , landscapes filled with coffee farms and virgin beaches. 

The God’s own Country is power-packed with a plethora of things to do in Kerala , see and experience for all kinds of travellers. Dive into this ultimate Kerala travel guide to assault your senses as I help you plan a 12-day road trip across some of the popular destinations.

In this 10 days Kerala itinerary, I’ll be covering Central Kerala locations such as Kochi, Munnar, Kumarakom and Alleppey and South Kerala locations such as Varkala and Trivandrum.

Kochi – 1.5 days

Munnar – 3 days

Thekkady – 2 days

Kumarakom – 1 day

Alleppey – 1 day

Varkala – 2

Trivandrum – 1.5 day

Table of Contents

HOW TO GET AROUND KERALA

This Kerala road trip is based on a self-driven car so as to save time while travelling from one place to another. Ideally, it is best to hire a car that services the 10 days in Kerala trip from point to point.

If you are on a budget and have more days in hand, you can spread out the itinerary to suit your travel style. Public buses serviced by Kerala State Road Transport Services (KSRTC) ply between each town of Kerala and are comfortable and affordable. 

WHERE TO START THE 10 DAYS ROAD TRIP IN KERALA?

It is ideal to start at Kochi (formerly Cochin) which is on the southwest coast of India. All modes of transport – domestic and international are easily available to reach here.

DRIVING OR RENTING A CAR FOR A ROAD TRIP IN KERALA?

While many would feel like driving by themselves during the entire journey but be mindful that this itinerary involves going on mountain roads. I would recommend driving on hills, only if you have done this before. Also, you would probably be too tired driving all-around to actually enjoy the entire journey. 

Car through many rental services like Zoom Cars, Revv, Mychoize, etc. can be received at the Kochi airport. 

If self-drive is not your thing, hire a local guide who will take care of everything for you. On my latest trip to Kerala, everything was taken care my tour guide – C Satish. Car booking, accommodation, kind of places I want to stop at, food preferences and a detailed itinerary. He made the entire trip to Kerala extremely effortless and seamless. His knowledge of his home state is commendable (architecture, heritage culture, flora, food and the list goes on). I highly recommend him for arranging accommodation, planning a Kerala itinerary or even for food recommendations. He is based in Kochi and is a great resource for Fort Kochi Heritage Tour as well.

C Satish can be reached at +91 9495690929

Day 1: Kochi

How to get from kochi airport to fort kochi.

Kochi Airport is around 36 kilometres from Fort Kochi, so having a car to pick up is a must. In my 3 visits to Kochi, I always requested my hotel or tour guide to arrange for a car pick-up. This guarantees that the car driver is genuine and you don’t have to keep checking your phone if you are being taken in the right direction!

App-based taxi and auto services are also available. You can simply download Ola or Uber and book a taxi. However, many times these taxis are not available so charge more for unforeseen reasons.

Pre-paid taxis are also available from the booking counter in the Kochi Airport arrival hall.

Bus service is available for transfer from Kochi airport into Kochi city.

Things to do in Kochi in one day

Kochi, the largest city in Kerala, has historically been an important port city from earlier times. Reach Kochi by late evening so as to start the next day with a visit to Fort Kochi. With a history of the European spice route trade, there are many places in Fort Kochi reminiscent of that bygone era.

Fort Kochi is one of the most happening places in Kochi and has many architectural and heritage places. Beautiful artsy cafes, wall arts and heritage homestays line up the Fort Kochi area.

Fort Kochi Heritage walk

Kochi Beach, Mattancherry Palace, Pardesi Synagogue and St Francis Church are the must-visit places in Fort Kochi. Do not miss out on the working of Chinese Fishing Nets which have been functional for decades.

Shopping is a must while in Fort Kochi so head over to Jew Street for spices, handicrafts, Kerala souvenirs, traditional Kasavu sarees and snacks.

Day 2 in Kochi should be spent at the beautiful Cherai Beach as well as learning about the Chendamangalam Handlooms .

Where to eat in Fort Kochi

Kashi Art Cafe, Oy’s cafe, and Loafer’s corner are some of the best cafes in Fort Kochi and are open for breakfast too.

For lunch, try the traditional Kerala sadya (meal on banana leaf) at Bharath Hotel.

Where to stay in Kochi

For a luxurious experience: Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty

For a heritage experience: Ginger House Museum and Hotel

Medium budget: Abad Atrium , Niko Hotels

If you are a backpacker choose: Zostel, Kochi

Kashi Art Cafe, Fort Kochi

Day 3: Kochi to Munnar

On day 2 start early for the 5-hour road trip to Munnar. For Munnar, it is not about the destination, but the journey. Enjoy the hot and humid air giving way to chilly winds as the car passes the road with tea gardens on both sides.

Famous for the lush tea estates which you can romance along the way while hoping that there is no roadblock due to elephants crossing the highway. Relax and enjoy the valley views while sipping on Chai after reaching! If you are not too tired, you can go for a short hike.

Things to do in Munnar

A short hike is possible to Echo point which is 15 km one way. Trekking in Munnar is also a great way to explore the tea gardens and Shola forests. Or you may choose some adventure sports like rock climbing and rappelling in other nearby towns of Munnar. Other trekking trails in Munnar include Top Station Trek, Chokramudi Trek, Meesapulimala Trek and Lakshmi Hills Trek amongst others.

Exploring the Munnar tea plantations during Road trip in Kerala

Next, head towards the Eravikulam National Park to sight the endangered Nilgiri Tahr or the mountain goat. The 15 km journey, the waiting line and a small hike up the Kannan Devan hill will consume over 4 hours. On the way back you may stop at the Mattupetty dam and head towards its catchment area if you want to try some water sports.

Other things to do in Munnar include visiting Attukal Waterfalls, Lakkum Waterfalls and paying a visit to Lockhart Tea Factory & Museum.

Where to stay in Munnar

For a luxurious experience: Spice Tree Munnar, Blackberry Hills Spa and Resort

Medium budget: Hotel Cloud Valley

If you are a backpacker choose: Vedanta Wake up

Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park Munnar

Day 5: Munnar to Thekkady

Gear up for another hill station of Kerala which is 4 hours away from Munnar.  

Things to do in Thekkady

After reaching Thekkady, the most important place to visit is the Periyar National Park. Thekkady offers boat safari on Periyar and one can see wild animal gets on the river banks. The river has barren tree logs and the landscape across the mountains looks breathtaking. Bird and animal sighting is possible here and in the 2 visits so far, I have got some great shots! Read in detail about Periyar National Park .

After the national park visit, the evening can be spent attending a cultural program – Kalaripayattu or Kathakali at the Kadathanadan Kalari, Mudra Cultural Centre.

Kathakali performance in Thekkady

Ayurvedic massage in Thekkady is also one of the things to experience. In Thekkady there are many resorts offering ayurvedic retreats offers that are month-long ayurvedic treatment solutions for people suffering from chronic ailments. It is like a resort where people can stay for long durations and get their treatments done with consultation from an in-house doctor.

On the next day before moving to the next destination, spend some time in spice gardens knowing and sniffing the organic produce. A guided tour of Thekkady spice gardens is the awe-inspiring experience of how each spice that we use in Indian cooking is made. 

Read in Detail: Places to visit in Thekkady

Where to stay in Thekkady

For a luxurious experience: Greenwoods Resort , Cardamom County, Thekkady

If you are a backpacker choose: Jungle Paradiso Homestay

Periyar National Park Boat Safari

Day 6: Thekkady to Kumarakom

Move over to lakes from the hills by visiting the town of Kumarakom. Leave early morning from Thekkady and drive 4 hours to reach the idyllic village of Kumarakom

Things to do in Kumarakom

Popular as a spa destination, Kumarakom is lined with luxurious resorts along the Vembanad lake. Kumarakom is gorgeous thanks to the lake and backwaters. Spend the evening watching the sunset by the Vembanad Lake, go on a river cruise or choose to visit the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary.

Sunset on Vembanad lake, Kumarakom

One of the most interesting ways to spend time here is to know and experience the activities under Responsible Tourism in Kumarakom . Learn some crafts and ways of living of the local villagers, interact with them and how easy it is to lead an ethical lifestyle.

Where to stay in Kumarakom

For a luxurious experience: Kumarakom Lake Resort , Aveda Kumarakom  

If you are a backpacker choose: Nallathanka Nest Homestay

Coir rope making in Kumarakom

Day 7: Kumarakom to Alleppy or Alappuzha

Alleppey is the backwater town of Kerala and can be reached from Kumarakom by driving for 1.5 hours.

Things to do in Alleppey

The backwaters paradise of Kerala should be experienced by not spending the time on a houseboat which is expensive but by choosing a homestay on its banks! Take a canoe ride which will take you to small alleys wherein you can also do a village tour and watch the sunset over paddy fields.

Watch the sunrise and chill at the backwaters and watch the boats go by listening to the birds sing on the coconut tree near you. Read in detail: Kerala Backwaters of Alleppey

Where to stay in Alleppey

For a luxurious experience: Sterling Lake Palace Resort

If you are a backpacker choose: Nomad’s Hostel

Canoe ride in Alleppey Backwaters

Day 8: Varkala

This is Day 8 and time for some Vitamin Sea! 

Things to do in Varkala

Varkala is a famous beach town with beautiful virgin beaches – Papanasham and Bekal. Take a dip or just relax by the beach listening to the waves crash.

Visit the picturesque Kappil Pozhi Lake which is approximately 6 kilometres from Varkala town. It is surrounded by coconut trees that give this peaceful and tranquil lake some serious wanderlust vibes. On the way back visit the red laterite cliff which is one of the most popular tourist places.

Where to stay in Varkala

For a luxurious experience: Gateway Varkala

If you are a backpacker choose: Mad about Coco

Kappil Pozhi Lake Varkala

Day 9-10: Trivandram or Thiruvananthapuram

Drive from Varkala to Trivandrum, the Kerala state capital which is a 2 hours journey. 

Things to do in Trivandrum

Trivandrum has a lot of influence of British architecture and can be seen in many buildings. You may choose to visit Napier museum which has historical artefacts, Kerala science and technology museum or Kanakakkunnu Palace.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the most important temples of Lord Vishnu and is now the world’s richest temple too. The temple has a sleeping Vishnu idol, which is a unique feature.

Spending a night in the Kovalam houseboat is one of the most popular tourist activities in Thiruvananthapuram. Book a traditional houseboat that is made out of reed, cork, and bamboo. Cruising with Kovalam Houseboat Tours is a great way to spend time in Kovalam backwaters. One can lounge around watching the sunset or villagers going about their way. The cruise offers unparalleled views of backwaters.

Where to stay in Trivandrum

For a luxurious experience: Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram

If you are a backpacker choose: Bed Pods

Kanakakunnu Palace Trivandrum

This sums up the 10 days road trip in Kerala, India. This road trip offers a plethora of landscapes, sights, and cultural experiences which is bound to leave you rejuvenated!

FAQs related to Kerala road trip

Best time to visit kerala.

The Winters months (November to February) are ideal to visit Kerala. The temperatures are moderate and humidity is less (read: bearable). The hills can get chilly in the morning and night but maintain a comfortable temperature during the day.

However, winter is also the time when most people travel to Kerala. So expect to pay higher charges for cars and hotels. 

Kerala monsoon can be uncomfortable for some but the months of July and August are popular with local tourists who want to chase waterfalls and enjoy a rainy vacation.

Is the weather in Kerala good for a road trip in Kerala?

The average summer temperature is 24°C-37°C; while the average winter temperature range from 17°C-33°C. It rains quite often around the year.

Must try food of Kerala?

Kerala food is a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals mostly cooked in coconut oil. Do try the delicacies like ‘ appam-stew ’, ‘ puttu-kadala curry’, ‘ Avial ’ and ‘ iddiyappam ’ for breakfast or lunch. Just like the North-Indian thali, the Kerala thali is called sadya and is served traditionally on a banana leaf.

You will find the regulars like Idli, Dosai and Uttapam or even Punjabi and Indian-Chinese dishes in most of the places.

Traditional Kerala Sadya

What to wear in Kerala?

Comfortable clothing like a t-shirt and jeans is recommended. Women can choose a knee-length dress. Try to wear camouflaged colours during safaris.

Is Kerala safe for travellers/solo travellers/female travellers?

Kerala is extremely safe for all kinds of travellers, even solo women.

Sustainable tips for an ethical Road trip in Kerala

• Kerala is one of the cleanest states in India, in spite of the tourist influx so let’s try to maintain the same and be disciplined.
• If you come across a wild animal crossing the road/highway, give them time and space. Do not encroach on it by trying to get a selfie.
• Do not write on the palace walls or rocks at the beach. Let’s maintain the pristine heritage.
• Avoid wearing perfumes while going in the seawater or national parks.
• Blend in the culture by wearing the right clothes and eating the local food.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

10 Best Things to do in Kandy

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The backwaters of Kerala sound beautiful. I love the idea of taking a canoe ride and village tour. Seeing sunsets over the paddy fields would just be icing on the cake.

Kerala has always intrigued me ever since the program to bring bloggers there has been on. I can see some of the beauty through your exceptional photos of unique scenes.

I love that you drove to each destination. My husband and I think that you see so much more of an area by driving yourself from place to place. I’m glad that there are plenty of outdoor activities like hikes and canoeing. Seems like a great trip!

I have always wanted to go to Kerala and your guide reminds me that it is still I destination I want to get to! I was wondering if this is an itinerary that you could do via public transportation as I prefer not to rent a car when I travel solo. Would that be a viable option?

Hi Alison, yes this itinerary is very much doable in public transportation. Luckily public transport is super efficient and safe in Kerala and you shouldn’t face any problem. I hope you have a good time whenever you are in India 🙂

This is a great itinerary. Kerala looks beautiful. I’d love to visit the beaches and the spice plantation. Your sustainable tips are spot on for many locations. My daughter keeps asking to visit India …. perhaps this should be our destination.

I always recommend Kerala as the first place international tourists to go. Northern states tend to be very overwhelming and relatively not safe. I am sure you and your daughter will have an amazing time in Kerala 🙂

This is an area of India that is VERY high on our bucket list of places to visit. Therese has a friend who live near Trivandrum and has shared how wonderful the region is with us. I love that you can do this via public transport too though I have to imagine having a vehicle would offer much more freedom to explore … is driving relatively easy? And by that I mean for a someone not used to India. 😉

It would be difficult to drive on Indian roads if you are not used to it. But you can easily hire a taxi for the duration and it would work out to be cheaper.

This looks stunning, I’d love to get lost in Kerala for a week or so. I’ve never been to India, but I hope to get there soon.

That sunset in Kumarakom is so pretty that I would have to go there just for that shot over the water! Glad to know that the winter is the best time to visit because I’m not a huge fan of summer. Is it still pretty hot or does it actually get cool?

Thank you for showing another side of the country that I might have not known otherwise. This looks so well taken care and peaceful. What I love is that you can experience it as a backpacker as well as on the luxury side. I cant wait to visit India!

This Kerala travel guide is an absolute gem! It’s packed with all the information I need to plan my trip. From the picturesque backwaters to the lush tea plantations, every aspect is beautifully covered. I especially appreciate the detailed itinerary suggestions—it’s like having a local guide right at my fingertips. Thanks for sharing such valuable insights and making my Kerala travel dreams a reality!

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The Ultimate Kerala Travel Guide

India is a beautiful country. There are enchanting locations from its head to toe. Kashmir in the North has been the fancy of everyone around the world for a very long time but no more. Anyone now visiting  India  never flinches to have Kerala on their list. And why wouldn’t it be? For those visiting, here’s the ultimate Kerala travel guide to help plan your trip to this beautiful region.

Kerala is a wondrous state and accommodates so many physical features ranging from the  seas, the mountains and everything in-between . So, when you are visiting Kerala the next time, make sure you are not missing on any of the below-listed places.

Kerala Travel Guide

Our Kerala travel guide includes how to get to Kerala as well as the best places to visit in Kerala, including the not-to-miss Kerala beaches!

Getting to Kerala

A very important thing to take care of, while travelling in Kerala is the airport connectivity.  The 2 major airports in the state are in Kochi in the North and Thiruvananthapuram in the South.  So either you start your trip from the North going towards the South or the other way round.  This way you’ll be able to cover more places and use the time at your hand in the most optimum manner. You can view the Indian Railways schedule and book your tickets here , or search below.

Tourism in Kerala

It is one of those fully absorbing places that are highly praised for its excellent tourism infrastructure. You can enjoy being in the midst of wildlife sanctuaries, bird sanctuaries, lakes, hill stations as well as enjoy rich cultural festivals. You’ll be amazed at the outstanding structural design, villages and polite natives.    Vacationers also come here to resuscitate themselves at Ayurvedic Treatment & Spa Center. In fact, the whole state is a  picture-perfect tourist destination . On the other hand Kerala is more than tourist spot; it is also a destination used for  divine and intellectual exploration .

View some of the most popular Kerala tourism places and the activities that you can get up to here .

Wellness and yoga in Kerala

Kerala is a popular destination for yoga and wellness retreats. If you’re interesting in spending a few days immersed in either yoga, meditation or Ayurveda, we recommend checking out a few of the options available on Tripaneer .

Below are a few of the most popular retreats in Kerala:

• 7 Day Wellness Retreat with Yoga, Meditation, and Ayurveda in Kerala
• 10 Day Ayurveda Panchakarma Detox Retreat in Chalakudy, Kerala
• 28 Day Ayurveda Panchakarma and Yoga Retreat in Kerala
• 4 Day Relaxing Ayurveda Treatments and Yoga Retreat in Kerala

Nature in Kerala

On your tour of Kerala you will learn why the state is known as  “God’s Own Country” .

The rich culture and heritage of Kerala also attract nature lovers from all over the world. Once you step into this charming paradise, all other things will appear dull and fading. The good part is that you can enjoy all this abundance without making any big hole in your pocket.   You can explore the backwaters of Alleppey (read more about things to do in Alleppey ), beaches of Varkala, deep and dense forests of Thekkady, and the tea gardens of Munnar. The cool and crispy feel of this beautiful hill town called Munnar offers a perfect view to its tourists. Enjoy a hot cup of tea and overwhelm the sweet smell of pleasing surroundings.   Apart from these, you can visit harbors of Cochin, Kumarakom and incredible Wayanad.  The extensive mountains and thick and profound forests will give you an out-of-the-world and one-of-a-kind experience.

Kerala Travel Guide: Best places to visit in Kerala

Since there are so many beautiful Kerala destinations for its visitors, how about having a look at some of them? Yes, just dive into some of the most popular and enjoyed places of this paradise!

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a  port city in Ernakulam district  of Kerala state. It is one of the popular tourist places in Kerala and also a good place for a Kerala Backwaters trip. The city of Kochi is the right amalgamation of the words ancient and modern. The dockyards with huge ships are a sight to see. One can cruise around the city to take a tour of it .  The main spots are the Mattancherry Palace, Jew town Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi, Marine Drive, Bolgatty Palace, St.Francis Church etc.

If here, you must witness the Chinese fishing nets at work .  Walk the lanes of Jew town and enrich in the Jewish and Portuguese influences this place has. You should also visit the Lulu Shopping mall.

Search for accommodation in Kochi .

The next destination you can cover is the surreal hill station of Munnar. Munnar is one of the  most famous hill stations in Kerala  located in Idukki district. Also known as the Switzerland of South India, Munnar is one of the best summer destinations in India and also one of the top places to visit in Kerala.

The high rise mountains are covered in tea plantations.  Just sit in the balcony of your hotel and watch the painting like scenery unfold in front of your eyes. Rose garden, Kundala Dam lake, Echo point, Kanan Devan Tea museums are a few of the many places you must visit.

At the tea museums, tourists are shown how tea is made and the various processes involved in its production. You can buy a lot of spices, essential oils, teas amongst other souvenirs. It’s also popular to do those as a day trip in Munnar , which then include the visit to a tea museum, and tea and spice plantations.

Look for accommodation in Munnar .

This Kerala destination is included on all Kerala travel guides – and you can’t skip it when visiting the region!

A 5-hour drive from Munnar will bring you to the Venice of East, Alleppey.  The Kerala backwaters are simply beautiful.  Alappuzha or Alleppey is situated on the shores of Arabian Sea close to the banks of Vembanad Lake. Popularly known as the ‘ Venice of the East ’, Alleppey tops the list of best tourist places in Kerala. Along with Kumarakom, Alappuzha is among the most famous destinations of Backwaters of Kerala .

Alleppey enjoys a prominent place in the list of the finest tourist places in Kerala. The  houseboat stays, backwoods tours and peaceful beauty  of this place fascinate a good number of people to its land. In fact, it will not be wrong to say that it is one of the most famous spot to taste Kerala’s backwaters.

The depiction of Lord Curzon about this place Alleppey as Venice of East is not at all an overstatement. A  houseboat holiday  is what tourists look for on visit to this land. Different areas of lovely paddy fields, old-fashioned sanctuaries, lakes full with water lilies and interesting fishing hamlets make Alleppey one of the finest places to visit in Kerala.

Kuttanad, Alappuzha Beach, Mannarasala, Chettikulangara Devi Temple, Mullakkal Temple and Krishnapuram Palace are the some popular tourist places in Alleppey.

Search for accommodation (including houseboats) in Alleppey .

A 5-hour drive from Alleppey will bring you to the clean and pristine beaches of Kovalam. Kovalam, on the shores of the Arabian Sea, is one of the  most famous beaches in Kerala  and also one of the most popular places for sightseeing in Kerala. The beautiful Kovalam Beach is also known as the ‘Paradise of the South’. Kovalam is literally filled with endless coconut trees, breathtaking views while approaching the beach.

For anybody tired from Goa, this is the  perfect destination to unwind . Two beaches namely Havah beach and Lighthouse beach are the highlights of Kovalam. Just chill and enjoy the beach vibe at the any of the best beach resorts in Kerala.

Lighthouse Beach, Vizhinjam Mosque, Samudra Beach, and Eve’s Beach are the top places to visit in Kovalam. Kovalam is also famous for  Ayurvedic massages  and many yoga resorts.

After Kovalam, head to Thiruvananthapuram. Visit the Pothy’s mall and don’t miss to watch the Kathakali performances.

Kumarakom is a  cluster of little islands on the famous Vembanad Lake  in the beautiful state of Kerala. Mapped near Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a peaceful little hamlet along with interesting scenaries, ever pleasant weather and arresting flora and fauna. You can experience a mix of everything here:  authentic Kerala cuisines, backwoods, fresh gusty air, warmness of Keralite and delicious fresh coconuts .

Also known as the Queen of Vembanad, Kumarakom is the most famous Kerala Backwaters destination and is among the best places to experience Kerala Tourism. A houseboat cruise along the backwaters of Vembanad Lake is really an amazing experience. The Bird Kumarakom Sanctuary, Vaikom, Pathiramanal Island, Aranmula Temple and Erumeli are the popular Kumarakom tourist places. There are also loads of  accommodation options in Kumarakom .

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary , one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India, is located at Thekkady in Kerala. The park was established in 1950 and was declared as a Tiger Reserve in 1978.

The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam adds to the charm of the park. Thekkady is famous for Asian Elephants, Tigers, Gaurs, Sambars, Wild Boars, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Civet, Nilgiri Tahr, etc.Murikkady, Chellar Kovil, Mangala Devi Temple, Suruli Falls and Pullumedu are the popular tourist places in Thekkady.

Wayanad is one of the  marvelous hill stations in Kerala  and also one of the popular tourist places to visit in Kerala. Kalpetta, Sulthan Bathery and Mananthavady are the largest towns and are the base stations to visit different parts of the Wayanad district.

Blessed with several rain forests, Wayanad is also a wonderful monsoon destination in India. Meenmutty Falls, Soochipara Falls, Pookote Lake, Banasura Sagar dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Brahmagiri, Chembra Peak, Lakkidi and Edakkal Caves are the best places to visit in Wayanad.

Trivandrum,the capital city of Kerala, is one of the popular tourist places in Kerala. Also known as Thiruvananthapuram, it is considered as one of the cleanest cities in India.

Trivandrum is famous for its alluring tourist spots including beaches, historic monuments, lakes, unexplored mountain ranges etc.

Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Napier Museum, Kanakakkunnu Palace, Science and Technology Museum, Kowdiar Palace, St. Joseph’s Cathedral and Thiruvananthapuram Zoo are some of the top tourist places in Trivandrum.

Thrissur or Trichur is the  cultural capital of Kerala  and also one of the famous pilgrimage sites in Kerala. Thrissur hosts the world famous Thrissur Pooram held in the month of April / May.

This festival is the most colorful and spectacular temple festival of Kerala. UNESCO has awarded Thrissur Pooram as the most spectacular festival in the world.

The Vadakkunathan temple, Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna Temple, Paramekkavu Temple,Guruvayur Temple, Athirapally Falls, Peechi Dam & Sanctuary, Thrissur Zoo, Vilangankunnu and Shakthan Thampuran Palace are the top places to visit in Thrissur.

Athirapally

Athirapally Waterfall is one of the  most popular waterfalls in India  and one of the top tourist places in Kerala. Formed over Chalakudy River, the waterfall drops from a height of 80 feet through several streams offering great scenic beauty.

In rainy season, the water flow is full and all the streams join together and appear like Niagara Falls. This is the biggest waterfalls in Kerala. The Vazhachal Waterfalls, Chapra falls and Sholayar Dam, Valparai are the nearest attractions to Athirapally. 

Kerala Travel Guide: Top beaches in Kerala

While Kerala is renowned for its backwaters and hill stations, there are also some beautiful beaches in Kerala. Alleppey Beach, Varkala Beach, Bekal Beach, Cherai Beach and Kozhikode Beach are the famous beaches in Kerala apart from Kovalam Beach. 

Bekal Beach

Bekal Fort Beach is an attractive and charming beach that lies in the Kasaragod district of Kerala.  The beach is popular for its backwaters, forts and scenic beauty.  The beautiful stretch of the shallow beach has been developed as an exotic beach location by the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC). The beach offers an amazing view of the grand Bekal Fort which stands on the shores of the Arabian Sea. Bekal beach became a major holiday destination and one of the most renowned beaches of Kerala.

Varkala Beach

Varkala is a  popular beach town as well as a place for pilgrimage in Kerala . Also known as Papanasam Beach, Varkala Beach is one of the top and beautiful Kerala Beaches and also one of the top tourist places in Kerala. One of the highlights of this beach is the cliffs that are adjacent to the sea and from which mineral water pours out containing important medicinal properties. The beach also offers adventurous sports activities like water skiing and surfing. One can also visit the 2,000 year old Sri Janardhana Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the nature care center on the beach.

Kozhikode Beach

Kozhikode Beach is one of the most popular beaches and the major tourist places in Kerala. Kozhikode Beach is blessed with wonderful scenery and peaceful, refreshing ambiance. The sound of the gushing waves, the mighty Arabian Sea and the clean azure waters, attracts tourists from all around. The old lighthouse and two crumbling piers that run into the sea, adds the beauty of the beach and retain its old world charm.  The beach offers common activities like sunbathing, windsurfing, para- sailing, beach walking, fishing, etc.

Cherai Beach

Cherai Beach with its stunning beauty has become a hugely popular tourist attraction, located on the north-end of the Vypeen Island in Kochi. It is also called as the  Golden Beach of Kerala  and the  Princess of Arabian Sea.  The far end of Cherai Beach is lined with Chinese fishing nets which offer a pleasing view. The beach offers various water sports activities like water scooters, speed boats, snorkeling and canoe ride. Cherai Beach is famous among the people in Kochi and the must visit place in Kerala.

Alleppey Beach

Alappuzha Beach, also known as Alleppey Beach is one of the top places to visit in and is one of the top attractions of Kerala.  Often referred as  ‘Venice of East’ , Alleppey is one of the popular destinations of Kerala Backwaters. The beach of Alleppey is also perfect for various water sports activities such as a motorboat cruise, surfing, diving, para-sailing and swimming in the blue waters of the Arabian Sea.

This beach is also popular for the grand event of Nehru Trophy Boat Race that takes place every year in the month of August.

That’s our comprehensive Kerala travel guide. Now that you know about the best places to visit in Kerala, you can start planning your Kerala itinerary.

I'm sure you've had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You're in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.

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Genuinely the best trip ever!! The hotels were excellent. We got to experience very beautiful cities. Looking forward to the next adventure with Swastik India.

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South India : Backwaters, Tea Plantations, Temples & Beach Stay W/Private Guide & Chauffer

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The best of Kerala in 9 days with idyllic houseboat and relax

We loved the tour with our friendly and professional driver Mr.Sunil. We saw all the most beautiful places in the south and everything was very well arranged by the travel agent. We had a great contact with Mr. Neera who was alway available whenever we needed to discuss something. In conclusion, we can say it was a very amazing experience.

Amazing Kerala Tour from Cochin - 6 Days

I had a great time in Kerala. I loved the scenery, the culture, and most of all, the people. Our driver, Mr. Sibu, was terrific. I'd love to come back to Kerala and have him as my driver again. The guides in Kochi and Munnar were also great—they were knowledgeable and flexible. We weren't too happy with the initial boat we were given for our Backwater tour, but the company quickly changed us to another boat, which was great. The hotels were all good and the staff were very helpful. All in all, it was a wonderful experience.

Beautiful Kerala 5 Nights

We had booked for a Kerala package with Kerala Holiday Club. The tour was well organized and planned. They stayed connected with us for our entire trip! Mr. Sandeep were really knowledgeable and helpful. Thanks to Kerala Holiday Club for giving us one of the memorable vacations!!

Relaxing kerala tour ( Cochin Munnar Alleppy Cochin)

relaxing Kerala tour with Cochin, Munnar and Alleppy as our destinations. The experience was simply breathtaking. From the moment we arrived in Cochin, we were welcomed with warm hospitality and felt like we were home. The city of Cochin was so beautiful and full of life. We visited the ancient Jewish synagogue, the Dutch palace, the Chinese fishing nets, the St. Francis church and the Bolghatty palace. We then moved on to Munnar, which is situated in the middle of lush green mountains. It was a beautiful sight to behold. We went on a trek through the tea estates, visited the Mattupetty dam and also went on a boat ride in the Periyar river. It was a perfect way to relax and take in the beauty of nature. Our final destination was Alleppy. We spent our time here enjoying the houseboat cruise, which was so peaceful and relaxing. We also visited the backwaters, the Krishnapuram palace and the Ambalapuzha temple. Overall, our relaxing Kerala tour was simply amazing. We had a wonderful time in each of the destinations and experienced the culture and beauty of the region. The hospitality was great throughout our trip and the local food was delicious. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a relaxing and memorable holiday.

Blissful Kerala

I booked a trip to Kerala for 4 nights through Kerala Holiday Club. It was a wonderful experience. Everything was perfectly arranged and we had no issues throughout our trip. I would definitely recommend Kerala Holiday Club for holiday bookings.

Quick Cochin Munnar Thekkady Alleppy Kovalam 8 Days Tour

I recently took the Quick Cochin Munnar Thekkady Alleppy Kovalam 8 Days Tour and I must say, it was a blast! The tour was well organized and the drivers were very knowledgeable about the area. The itinerary was well planned, and we saw a lot of fantastic places on our trip. The hotels we stayed at were all top-notch, and the food was delicious. I especially loved the local cuisine in Kerala. Overall, I highly recommend this tour if you're looking for an exciting and informative trip to Kerala.

Romantic Beaches and Backwaters 10 Days Tour of Kerela

Me and my Family recently visit 10-day Romantic Beaches and Backwaters tour of Kerela with this company. I must say, it was a fantastic experience! The tour guide was knowledgeable and passionate about the area, and his passion showed in his explanation of the history and culture of the region. He also made sure to give us plenty of time to explore on our own. The scenery was breathtaking. We saw beautiful beaches, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. The food was delicious, and the accommodations were comfortable and stylish. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore beautiful Kerela province in India.

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The trip was fabulous, I and my friends visited South India, after visiting many wonderful temples and monument at last we approached Kumbakonam where we enjoyed the Ayurveda, yoga and meditation practice... We enjoyed a lot there. I recommend this trip and the company to everyone and I bet you will definitely like this tour. Special thanks to Mr. Reddy.

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Overall you provided good transport & Hotels . Excellent guides at Munnar Tea Plantations and other sites. Our only disappointed was a non English speaking driver who couldn’t arrange tea or toilet breaks unless we requested , However didn’t spoil a fantastic experience, thank you

All went smoothly, good srandard of accommodation and flexibility in the itinerary. Driver spoke reasonable English so we were able to communicate and he made some suggestions which were appreciated. Houseboat was relaxing, great crew and experience.

It was an incredible and well organized trip. We highly recommend!!

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A complete travel guide to munnar: the tea capital of kerala, india.

• Post published: July 28, 2021
• Post category: India
• Post author: Charu Goyal

Home to misty waterfalls, winding paths, and an unending expanse of tea plantations, Munnar in Kerala is one of the most popular places to visit in South India. Blessed with pristine valleys, endangered flora and fauna, calming lakes, and verdant forests, it may very well be one of the most beautiful places in India too.

Situated at an altitude of 1600 metres above the sea level, Munnar is a picturesque hill station and town in the Idukki district of Kerala. Accessed via an encircling road that passes through a myriad of scenic waterfalls, thriving vegetation, and mesmerising views of the Western Ghats, it is a sightseeing gem that once served as a summer resort for the British colonists.

Being the first stop on my Kerala trip in February last year, I spent two days exploring Munnar with my best friend. Meandering around acres of tea estates nestled between humongous mountains covered with low-lying clouds, I instantly comprehended Kerala’s much enthused title of God’s own country. So much so that I nearly teared up at the thought of leaving.

However, planning our trip to Munnar wasn’t equally wistful. There is a lot of information out there about what to do and see in Munnar, but barely anything that clarifies the mystery that Munnar’s layout is. I kid you not, I must have spent hours looking at the map of Munnar and reading Kerala guides after guides to just understand which area to stay in.

So, if you are planning to visit Munnar and are in the same boat as I once was, then worry not. In this guide, you will find all the essential topics ranging from the different areas to stay in Munnar, how to get there, best places to visit, which tea plantations to go to, where to eat and so on. 

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Table of Contents

Where exactly is Munnar in India?

Munnar is the tea capital of Kerala, the southernmost state in India. Renowned for its natural beauty and wealth of pictorial sights, Kerala is one of the most incredible destinations to visit in Asia. Bordering the Arabian Sea on the west; it is an Indian state that is admired globally for its humid tropical wet climate.

Munnar is located at the union of Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala mountain streams in the South-Western Ghats of India. Its name fittingly translates to “three rivers” in Malayalam, the local language of Kerala. Sitting on the Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway (N.H. 49), Munnar is around 130 km from Kochi. Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu is also close at a distance of roughly 157 km.

Although Munnar is commonly referred to as a hill station and trains did go up to its town centre and beyond once, that is simply not possible anymore. There was a dreadful flooding in the area in 1924, which ended up destroying much of the railway and ropeway, connecting Munnar to other major Indian cities. You can find remains of the old railway tracks on the Kundala-Top Station route even today.

The longstanding railway station, however, now operates as the local office of Tata Tea. The old platform outside it has also been converted into a road. Yet, this doesn’t mean that Munnar isn’t easily reachable nowadays. Being one of the most sought-after hill stations in South India, Munnar is still well connected to nearby airports and stations via road.

How to best reach there?

Whether you are travelling from domestic Indian cities or visiting directly from international destinations, there are many ways to get to the town of Munnar. Here are the most common transport options to help you decide the best mode for you:

Since Munnar doesn’t have an airport of its own, the nearest one that you can fly into is in Kochi. Cochin International Airport is located about 125 km away from Munnar. It is well connected to most cities in India and around the world. From there, you can hire a private taxi to Munnar directly when you arrive or pre-book one and have it ready for you at arrivals. Check flights to Cochin International Airport here!

I flew into Kochi from Mumbai early in the morning and just booked the transfer to our hotel in Munnar at the airport itself. There is a booking counter right after baggage claim in the arrivals lounge and you can easily get fixed price transports from there (No, haggling wouldn’t make a difference). The entire process is really organised and hassle free as you get a booking slip upon payment and meet your driver outside.

CG’s tip: Just make sure to have the proper address of your accommodation with you and not of Munnar town simply. Munnar refers to both the town and its surrounding areas, so accommodations are sometimes further out or nearer to the centre. Depending on where yours is based, you might be asked to pay a little extra or less, so it is better to check beforehand. 

Our accommodation was actually higher up from the general drop-off point, so our AC taxi with two large suitcases cost us INR 3350 for the drop-off . If you are travelling alone or are tight on budget, then you can even get a bus transfer. There are several bus companies running frequent buses between Cochin International Airport and Munnar. Though, none of them are direct as of yet. If you would prefer a direct bus, then you can head to the closeby Aluva bus stop (12 km away) and get a bus to Munnar from there .

The closest railway station to Munnar is in Aluva (110 km), which is slightly nearer compared to the centre of Kochi. Angamaly (Kalady) Railway Station is also at a similar distance. But if you are looking for better connectivity to other parts of India with frequent express trains, then Ernakulam might be the best option.

The Ernakulam Railway Station in Kochi is at a distance of 130 km from Munnar and has more daily trains arriving from faraway cities like Mumbai and Delhi . The Madurai Railway Station in Tamil Nadu is also around 135 km away, so you can check online and see which one might be a better choice for your departure city.

Irrespective of which railway station do you arrive at out of the mentioned above, there are onward buses and taxis available for Munnar from all. You can either walk to the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus stand near your station and take a local bus, or get a prepaid taxi from arrivals / book a taxi from Kochi to Munnar online .

Snuggled between splendid hills, Munnar is one of the most beautiful places to drive to. Regardless of how you choose to get there, chances are that you will be arriving into town by road. One of the popular ways to travel to Munnar is hiring a car to self-drive or booking a taxi . Since most places to see in Munnar are very spread out, I personally think having your own vehicle can be a bliss whilst there.

Munnar is also well connected to numerous state and national highways across India via public transport. You can book buses online via redBus or turn up at a stop and buy a ticket in person. However, the local, state run buses by KSRTC might be a better choice as they operate more frequently to mountainous areas where many public buses don’t often go. When taking a KSRTC bus from Kochi to Munnar, you can expect to pay somewhere around INR 130 per person.

CG’s tip: If arriving in a private vehicle, do not forget to make pit-stops on the way to enjoy the abundant viewpoints as you gain elevation and snap pictures by the oodles of waterfalls that will surprise you en route. If coming by bus, then get a window seat and purely admire the verdant visions from your ride!

Onward Transport from Munnar

When it’s nearly time to leave, you can simply arrange for the transport in Munnar itself. Our next stop on the Kerala trip was Kumarakom and we got a private taxi for INR 3300 in Munnar town the night before. There are various travel agents and ticketing shops around town from where you can book your preferred onward transfer.

Buses operate daily from / to Kumarakom, Alleppey, Kochi, Coimbatore, Madurai and more. You can browse bus routes on the KSRTC website here. Alternatively, you can book a taxi or hire a car to anywhere you would like to go.

What is the best time to visit Munnar?

Munnar is one of those destinations that can be enjoyed throughout the year due to its adequate climate. Whether you are looking to find some solace during the scorching Indian heat in summer, or are thinking of a mountainous getaway during the winter season in India; Munnar, being a hill station, is a treat anyhow.

Summer (March to May)

Summer starts arriving in Munnar from March and usually lasts till May. With temperatures ranging between 19-35 degrees Celsius , it is a great time to visit Munnar and enjoy the cool air amidst acres of tea plantations. Early morning and night time in Munnar are generally cool throughout the year, so you will still get a hill station feel even in summer.

Munnar is also known to have less humidity and rainfall during the summer months. Because of this, you might notice a surge of prices when travelling to Munnar during this time as many domestic tourists head there to escape the heat. From hiking in the Western Ghats to going camping and exploring waterfalls, there are a plethora of activities that you can take part in in summer.

This time of the year is also when many seasonal activities like paragliding, rock climbing, rappelling and other adventure sports are available. You can also go on a trek to Anamudi – the highest point in India (outside the Himalayan Mountain Ranges) at 2,695 metres above the ground.

CG’s tip: Munnar could still experience light rain showers in the summer. It is a good idea to carry a light sweater or jacket and an umbrella or raincoat for your visit.

Monsoon (June to September)

Monsoon season in Munnar comes with its own charm. The arrival of shimmering rain transforms the sprawling tea estates and lush forests of Munnar into an even more alluring, verdant and vibrant scene. Cloudy skies and heavy waterfalls further add to the overall atmosphere and make way for a pleasant time.

Munnar experiences heavy rainfall with an average of 533 mm rain during the months of June and July. If you are planning to visit Munnar during monsoon s , then keep in mind that many touristic activities might not be available . The roads leading to Munnar and around it can also be slippery during this time, so I would advise to head there only during the day and not at night.

Having said that, most accommodations in Munnar are typically cheaper during monsoon (due to off-season). You can even book a room overlooking the lush hills and enjoy the view with a hot cup of chai when the rain pours. The town in general is quieter too, so it can be a more relaxing time to visit. However, with rain comes leeches, so be careful when going into grassy areas during monsoon. There could also be road blockages and landslides in monsoon, so I would personally avoid visiting then.

CG’s tip: Trekking and hiking might not be possible to do in Munnar during monsoon as the surface becomes slippery. Though, it might still be a good idea to carry footwear that you would not mind getting dirty along with some warm clothing and an umbrella or raincoat .

Winter (October to February)

Winter is the best time to visit a hill station like Munnar. With crisp afternoons, icy dawns, and pleasant dusks, it is easy to understand why most tourists head to Munnar between October and February. The average temperature in Munnar during this time is around 10 degrees Celsius . But since it is situated on high terrains and is surrounded by vast empty lands, the air tends to feel colder than that.

I visited Munnar in the beginning of February and loved the climate. The afternoons were hot enough to wander around in a t-shirt, but a jacket was still needed during auto-rickshaw rides and at night time. From hiking, trekking and mountain climbing, to gazing at waterfalls and walking amidst tea plantations, there were plenty of activities to engage in. Just remember that it is the busiest tourist season in Kerala, so you should expect to see large crowds!

From the month of November to January, Munnar sometimes experiences occasional snowfall and cold waves with recorded temperature dipping down below 0 degrees Celsius. If you are planning to visit during the blooming of Neelakurinji flowers, then September to October might be a better choice. But if weather is the deciding factor, then I personally found February to have been perfect .

CG’s tip: When packing warm clothes for the trip, make sure to bring layers with you. Since the temperature increases in the day and then drops again at night, it would be comfortable to have easily changeable options with you.

How many days are enough?

In order to see the best of Munnar, I would recommend visiting there for three full days. I was there for a short trip so could only stay for two days and thus, ended up missing a few things that I would have liked to explore and do. 

Most places to see in Munnar are spread out from each other and divided into routes according to their location. You will most likely have to dedicate a day to each route in order to see the touristic spots in that area. Since I was there for only two days, I could only do two routes. 

We were able to see quite a few places, but I have to admit that I felt a little rushed on the first day. Since we made our way from Kochi airport on the same day, we could not begin the tour early in the morning and hence had limited time. Even though the driving distance between Kochi and Munnar isn’t that much, the duration often takes longer due to the windy, singular road.

However, if you are short on time, then it is possible to do a private day trip to Munnar from Kochi. You’ll usually begin your journey at sunrise and be back in Kochi for dinner!

Where to stay in Munnar?

This is one question that I struggled with the most when planning my trip to Kerala. Since Munnar refers to both the town and its general surrounding area, many nice hotels and resorts there are actually located far off the centre. Having not been there before, I personally found it difficult to gauge how far away would it be okay to stay in terms of food, transport, touristic sites and so on.

I had always dreamt of staying at a beautiful accommodation with panoramic views of the plantations and the greenery that Munnar is known for. However, resorts like that can be scattered anywhere up to 20-25 kilometres of radius from the centre. So, if you do not have your own vehicle with you, it can become costlier to get around and to access the restaurants in the town centre for dinner.

So how do you choose where to stay? Well, know that Munnar is divided into three broad areas that each have something different to offer. Depending on what your preference, budget and purpose of the trip is, you can see which one suits your needs best and stay there. 

Old Munnar is a small settlement that is not too far from Munnar Town. It is a decent area with many budget accommodations and some nice viewpoints close by. If you are arriving to Munnar in a bus from Kochi, then Old Munnar is where the buses would usually stop first. Being in close proximity with a bus stop, Old Munnar is a convenient area to get to and from.

I visited Old Munnar to see some photo points and spice gardens around there, and the neighbourhood looked acceptable. I wouldn’t go as far as saying that this is the best area to stay in Munnar. But if you are after economical properties that are away from the town centre noise and traffic, then Old Munnar is a decent choice. Especially since it is still close enough to easily get there if needed.

From the research that I have done, Grand Plaza and Greenview Holiday Inn look like the best options in Old Munnar. Greenview Holiday Inn is located right on the Main Street connecting Munnar to Kochi, while Grand Plaza has some rooms with beautiful views going for it. Other properties like Deshadan Mountain Resort and Fragrant Nature Munnar are a tad further away, but come with beautiful tea estate views and luxury that is otherwise rare in the hills. The Abad Copper Castle Resort is also nearby and has great balcony views.

Munnar Town

Munnar Town is the commercial centre of the area. If you are looking to stay somewhere with easy access to restaurants, accommodations, ATMs and other tourism related services, then this is the best option for you. Though, it may not be the most postcard worthy choice. 

With many hotel buildings and shops nearby, the view in Munnar Town is merely ordinary. I stayed at a walking distance from the main market there and felt like I missed on the proper hill station experience that one would go to a place like Munnar for. Most places to sightsee in Munnar are also not actually in the centre, so it certainly lacks when it comes to scenery.

However, with an array of eateries present in almost every nook, I admit that it was convenient to grab a quick albeit delicious bite at any given time and just go for an escapade. Containing the town’s main taxi stand near the market, Munnar town also ended up being a convenient base to hire auto rickshaws or private cabs for day tours in and around Munnar.

You can check out my hotel in Munnar Town here . We just went there to sleep, so I cannot say much about the service. But, it was easy on the pocket. If you are looking for something more decent, then the nearby Tea County looks great.

Out of Town Munnar

If commercialised areas aren’t your thing and you would rather enjoy the idyllic views that Munnar is mainly famous for, then staying a little out of town might be the best choice for you. With numerous guesthouses, hotels, resorts and treehouses (!!) spread around a 20-30 minute drive from Munnar, there is a wide list of options to choose from for every budget when staying out of town.

Depending on what you choose (eg: a guesthouse by the tea plantations), there may be less restaurants situated close to your accommodation. But since most places like that have an on-site restaurant, you can always double check before making a booking or request for arrangements in advance. Nearly all out of town properties also have a concierge service and can make transportation s and day-tour s bookings for you. 

CG’s tip: If you are taking a bus to get to Munnar, then make sure to check which bus stop is closest to it. A lot of the properties are in or near Munnar Bypass, so buses usually stop there first before heading to the town.

One of the best out of town properties is the luxurious Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat . It is situated midst a beautiful spice plantation and has free shuttle bus services to the main town. The Elixir Hills Suites Resort and Spa and Blanket Hotel Spa also look equally stunning. If you like waterfalls, then you can even get a room with a view of a mesmerising waterfall at Blanket Hotel Spa. Last but not the least, The Panoramic Getaway also is a great choice.

How to get around Munnar?

Since most places to see in Munnar are far (like covering national parks and forest reserves far!) from the centre, you cannot simply walk to a landmark and explore independently. If you have your own vehicle with you, then yes, you can drive in any direction you like. But for most travellers, you will either need to use a public bus, hire an auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk) or a private taxi.

CG’s tip: If you want to drive your own vehicle or take a bus, then remember to write down the timings, directions and other necessary information for the way back. Since some spots are situated even higher up than Munnar town, cellular network doesn’t really work there so you might not have any connectivity from time-to-time.

Public buses run all the way to Top Station and are easy to find from the town centre. However, due to the winding nature of the road taking you there and the distance involved, these buses can take longer than anticipated. 

I wanted to have more freedom in regards to being able to stop wherever I liked, so I didn’t personally try this option.

Auto Rickshaw or Taxi Tour

Because there are so many wonderful spots and directions to go explore when in Munnar, getting around in a privately hired vehicle may be your best bet. Depending on your budget, you can book a taxi or auto rickshaw for a day tour and have the drivers take you around your chosen spots and back.

Since most touristic sights around Munnar fall on a certain route, you will find taxi and auto rickshaw drivers offering customised tours for various different ones. These drivers almost always carry a route card / brochure with pictures of the most famous spots with them, so you can have a look at the options and go with the one that interests you best.

Depending on how further you opt to go and the duration of your chosen tour, a price will then be quoted to you. Auto-rickshaw tours are typically around INR 700-1000 per day and the taxi charges are nearly double that. The asking price can be at least twice these figures (especially if you are not from around there) so don’t forget to haggle beforehand. 

The four most common routes are towards the Mattupetti, Marayoor (or Coimbatore), Cochin, and Thekkady directions. We decided to take the Top Station / Mattupetti tour on Day 1 from the town centre and it cost us INR 900 for an auto-rickshaw option. For Day 2, we chose the Cochin direction tour (with the same driver) which cost us INR 1000 with a hotel pick-up and drop off. 

The best thing about our tour was that the driver was very accommodating and didn’t mind stopping at random stops for pictures. He was also very knowledgeable about the places we visited, so it was like getting a tour guide and a driver for the price of one. But, keep in mind that none of these tours cover entrance fees for any attractions.

Renting a Motorbike

This used to be a very popular means of getting in and around Munnar up to a few years back. With an encircling road situated right in the lap of nature, adventure loving travellers often enjoyed touring around in pocket friendly motorbikes to explore Munnar on their own. However, due to reasons unclear, this is no longer possible.

Though based upon my chat with my auto-rickshaw driver and other locals, it did look like there are actually multiple causes behind it. There seemed to have been some accidents involving the rental motorbikes in the past (which for a hill station like Munnar sounds likely) and seemingly fatalities too. 

However, I was also told that since other tour operators and locals weren’t benefitting with tourists hiring their own vehicle for cheap, the government had to intervene and prohibit motorbike rentals.

Places to see and things to do in Munnar

Where do I even begin with this one? For a town oozing with touristic sights and hidden gems, saying that there is plenty to see in Munnar would be an understatement. From seeing elephants in their natural habitat to visiting the most elevated tea plantation in the world, here are some places that you can explore on your next trip to Munnar:

Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam is a concrete storage gravity dam that is used to generate hydroelectricity in the area. It was constructed in the Idukki district in the late 1940s and is said to be the first of its kind in the entire state of Kerala. 

Surrounded by lush forests and verdant tea plantations that reflect beautifully on the water in the lake, it is also a much renowned picnic spot in Munnar. There are several stalls offering local delicacies like roasted corn and coconut water around. You can also bring your own food there and enjoy it by the lakeshore.

Mattupetty Dam is also known for spotting Asiatic Elephants. Due to the water availability in the lake, many such wild animals and birds can be occasionally seen from there. And if you like adventures, then there is also a beautiful trekking path leading to nearby forests. Water activities like speed and motor boating in the dam are available too.

Distance: 13 km away from Munnar Route: Munnar to Top Station / Mattupetti Direction route Opening hours: 09:30 am – 05:00 pm

Echo Point is a beautiful spot located at an altitude of 600 feet on the banks of a glistening lake. With panoramic views of three mountain ranges and evergreen forests, it is one of those places that is destined to leave you spellbound. 

Echo Point is also famous for its natural phenomenon of echoing. So, when visiting, make sure to shout something by the shore of the lake and hear your voice reverberate back to you in sometime. I will admit that I didn’t really expect much from it at first, but the moment you first hear your own echo, it truly is enthralling.

You can also walk around the gentle slopes, trek, or go on a boating expedition while there. I, for one, even loved sitting and gazing at the incredible landscape in front. Echo Point is also home to misty low-lying clouds and some very tall trees.

CG’s tip: Echo Point is a beautiful spot to take Instagram photos in Munnar. So don’t forget to carry your camera with you and take some pictures to remember this natural paradise by.

Distance: 15 km away from Munnar Route: Munnar to Top Station / Mattupetti Direction route Opening hours : 06:00 am – 07:30 pm

Kundala Lake

Snuggled between green valleys, Kundala Lake is one of the most beautiful places to see in Munnar. Located at a height of 1700 metres above sea level, it is a tranquil spot situated on the way to Top Station. One of the well-known attractions to see when visiting Kundala Lake is the artificial Kundala dam. Also known as Sethuparvathipuram dam, it is said to be Asia’s first ever arch dam.

The lake is also a popular spot for boat rides such as the traditional Kashmiri Shikara boat. Other types of boating like row boating, paddle boating or speed boating are also available for hire. With the sun reflecting on the clear water and making it gleam in every direction possible, Kundala Lake is indeed a must visit sight for nature lovers. 

This area is also a significant place to see cherry blossoms. Blooming only twice a year, the cherry gardens surrounding Kundala Lake turn the entire lake into a more magical location. Being a paradise full of beautiful flowers, Kundala Lake is also home to the famous Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years. The next sighting of the Neelakurinji flowers is supposed to be in 2030!

CG’s tip: Kundala Lake looks even more mesmerising under the first rays of sun. Make sure to arrive here early in the morning to see it in all its glory.

Distance: 20 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Top Station / Mattupetti Direction route Opening hours: 09:00 am – 05:00 pm (Boating closes at 04:30 pm)

Top Station

Top Station is the last stop on the Mattupetti direction route. If you are looking to enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Theni district valley, then driving to the Top Station should definitely be on your Munnar list. It might not technically be a ‘top station’ anymore due to the destruction of the railway tracks there, but it is certainly still the ‘top’ of Munnar. On a clear day, you can even see Tamil Nadu from there!

Like most touristic sights in the Kanan Devan hills, Top Station is also best enjoyed early in the morning. Because it is located 1880 metres above sea level, it can get surrounded by clouds more easily. Once the clouds come in, it becomes harder to see the incomparable views that the location is famous for. Top Station is also popular to spot the rare Neelakurinji flowers. There are a few tea farms nearby too. If you like chai, then you can even grab a cuppa and some snacks at the Top Station and enjoy the misty view in front.

However, do keep in mind that it can get really crowded there. When I visited around sunset time in February 2020,  tourists in Munnar were very limited due to the coronavirus. I was told by my auto-rickshaw driver that sometimes it can even take an entire day to get there and back due to the traffic in peak season. 

Distance: 40 km from Munnar Route : Munnar to Top Station / Mattupetti Direction route Opening hours: 06:00 am to 06:00 pm

Spice Gardens

There are many spice gardens in and around Munnar. Although a tad touristy, doing a tour of spice plantations is interesting if you want to see how the indigenous spices (like turmeric, ashwangandha , pepper, etc.) of the region grow. Typically, you will start by buying your tickets from the counter and have a guide take you around. You can try the species you like, learn about them, take some photographs and then exit through the gift shop.

The one that I visited was part of the auto-rickshaw tour in Cochin direction. It is called Spice County and the tickets cost INR 100 per person. We were taken to the starting point of the plantation in a rather adventurous jeep drive. Our tour lady was nice and wasn’t giving any unnecessary information to try to sell the products from the gift shop. However, others could insist on purchasing something.

The Cinnamon Gardens Spice Plantation is another popular one to visit in Munnar.

Distance: 6 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Cochin direction Opening hours: 08:00 am to 06:00 pm

Tea Plantations and Museum

You cannot go to Munnar and not visit a tea plantation or factory! With more than 1500 acres of land covered with tea, it is truthfully present in every corner there. You can drive past them and stop on the highway to take photos from the various viewpoints that you will come across. Or, go on a tour, learn how it is cultivated, engage in tea tasting and bring some back home.

But if you are looking to get those Instagram perfect pictures of yourself strolling around in tea fields, then know that most aren’t open to the public. The Tata Group actually owns the majority of them, so you will need a special permit to enter as they are usually surrounded by pointed wires. Nonetheless, there are hiking and jeep tours in Munnar that go through the tea fields, so you can do one at sunrise and get some beautiful photos.

Some plantations like Chinnakanal Tea Fields, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and Lockhart Tea Estate also allow visitors to explore the tea fields with a purchase of a ticket. The Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is the highest organic tea factory in the world. A jeep tour of it was recommended to me by many locals and tourists. This walking tour takes you amidst tea plantations and involves tea leaf picking and tea tasting as well!

CG’s tip: I was only in Munnar for a short while so I didn’t get the chance to do a tour. But, the auto-rickshaw driver we went with knew some tea plantations that were open to enter (I double-checked with the staff there too) and on the way. If you can, I would recommend doing a tour though as I do feel that I missed out on it.

Pothamedu Viewpoint

Nestled amidst tea and coffee plantations, the Pothamedu Viewpoint offers panoramas of the nearby valley, is a good place for photographs, and is said to be beautiful at sunset time. 

We visited around noon on Day 2 and I personally felt that it wasn’t worth going out of our way to reach there. It might have been because I went to more scenic places the day before or the weather condition, but it didn’t wow me like the other places did.

Having said that, I did enjoy walking around the Pothamedu viewpoint and found a tea plantation that was open to visit. The area is also known to be a good hiking and trekking spot. But if you are visiting with young kids, then be careful as the drop on the other side is really high and there is barely any safety.

Distance: 5 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Cochin direction Opening hours: 09:00 am to 07:30 pm

Eravikulam National Park

The Eravikulam National Park is one of the many wildlife parks near Munnar. Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr mountain ungulates, the highest peak of Anamudi, and the famous Neelakurinji flowers; it is a much-loved tourist destination in Kerala. 

Unlike other national parks around the world, the Eravikulam National Park actually gives visitors the rare freedom to walk around instead of doing a traditional (jeep) safari. There is a designated area where you can stay as long as you wish to and try to spot a Nilgiri Tahr. If interested, you can also book a private hiking tour with the park in advance and go on a 2-3 hour guided expedition. The Eravikulam National Park requires everyone to buy a permit to enter.

In their attempt to do right by the Nilgiri Tahrs, the Kerala government ensures that they remain undisturbed during the calving season. So keep in mind that each year the park remains closed sometime from January for three months straight. Since I visited Munnar in February last year, I could not go to Eravikulam National Park because of this reason.

CG’s tip: The park might be closed during monsoon too, so if you are heading to Munnar to view it, then don’t forget to check in advance.

Distance: 15 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Marayoor / Coimbatore direction Opening hours: 07:30 am to 04:00 pm

Lakkam Waterfalls

Lakkam Waterfalls is a beautiful stream close to the Eravikulam National Park. It is one of the most serene places to see in Munnar and is also known as Lakkom waterfalls. You can visit here to simply admire the waterfalls amidst rich flora or go swimming in the crystal-clear plunge pool that forms at the bottom of the lake. The water is usually icy cold, which can be both a blessing or suffering depending on the season you are visiting in.

Lakkam Waterfalls is also known as a great trekking spot in the area, so you can also book a tour for the same if you like. Just remember to not hike there during the monsoon season as the rocks can be slippery. The waterfall is also surrounded by beautiful Vaga trees that make the area even more appealing.

Distance : 25 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Marayoor / Coimbatore direction  Opening hours: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm

Some other noteworthy waterfalls to visit in Munnar are Attukal (aka Attukad) waterfalls, Cheeyapara Waterfalls, Chinnakanal Waterfalls and Kuthumkal Waterfalls. But since cascades are in abundance there, you will probably come across many more during your time in Munnar.

Where to eat in Munnar?

South Indian food is one of my all-time favourites so I was really excited to eat my weight in the local delicacies of Munnar. Here are some places that I would recommend for good vegetarian food in Munnar:

Saravana Bhavan: Saravana Bhavan is a well-known, vegetarian South Indian chain around the world. You can expect to find good quality and hygienic local specialities like dosas, idlis , appams, thalis and more here. It is situated in Munnar market and is easy on the pocket too. I had a Rava Masala Dosa along with some idlis and found everything really tasty. I also loved that the food was served on an authentic banana leaf. Unfortunately, we only went here on our last night; otherwise we could have gone back for seconds!

Tea Tales Café: Tea Tales Café is a newly opened eatery by an adventure company in Munnar. It is situated on a higher floor on a busy street in Munnar Town, making it less noisy if you sit inside (outdoor seating is available too). If you need a break from the local food, you can find good vegetarian and vegan options like sandwiches, pastas, smoothies, etc. there. They also have a huge spread of coffees and local teas.

Hotel Gurubhavan: Hotel Gurubhavan was located a mere 5-minute walk from our hotel, so we decided to visit it for dinner one night. We arrived earlier than the standard Indian dinner time, but the place was packed with local tourists within minutes. The price was very reasonable and the food was decent too (we ordered a dosa and some Indian curry with naan). However, they did make another family sit on our table and have us share it with them without even asking which was a little weird.

County Cuisine: Tea County is a hotel operated by the Kerala Government and its multi-cuisine restaurant on site is called County Cuisine. I personally didn’t get to visit it, but from the recommendations I got and the reviews online, it looks like a nice place to get some Indian and Asian food. The restaurant is vegetarian friendly and offers some nice views.

Rochas Restaurant: Rochas restaurant was another eatery in Munnar that was near our hotel. We had jeera aloo and paneer butter masala with some garlic naans and everything was nice. I personally wanted to eat idlis , but for some reason a lot of the South Indian food was available only for breakfast. Not something that I was expecting in Kerala, but it was a touristy place so maybe that’s why.

Other than this, we just had our meals in decent looking places close to where we were. Since Munnar is a hill station, you might not find a huge number of modern restaurants around. Our hotel didn’t have a restaurant on site, but if yours does, then you can always eat there.

What to buy in Munnar?

Munnar is known for many things so if you like souvenir shopping or bringing a loved one a little something, then don’t forget to check out the local markets in the town. Since Munnar is also referred to as the tea capital of Kerala, some tea is always nice to remember it by. I also brought some coffee home for my family and they seemed to really enjoy it.

There are also many shops in Munnar town selling homemade chocolates. You can get flavours like fruit and nuts, chilli chocolates, white/dark, etc. The spice plantation I visited also had a chocolate shop near it, so it might be better to buy from them directly instead of a convenience store in the town.

Last but not the least, since Kerala is known for its Ayurveda practices, you can also buy essential oils, handmade soaps, incense sticks and other natural care products.

What to pack for Munnar?

•  It is really common for showers to appear from nowhere due to the high altitude of Munnar, so make sure to bring an umbrella or waterproof clothing.
• If you plan to take an auto-rickshaw tour, then it might be better to pack something to cover your face or eyes. There is a lot of dust when it’s windy, so we were thankful to have face masks and some eye gear .
•  A jacket ! Even if you are coming in the summer, places like Munnar do get cold at night, so it is useful to have a light layer in case you need it.

• Getting some light cotton clothes is also a good idea. The temperatures seem to fluctuate a lot so it can get really hot and humid during the day. I was there in February and was only comfortable in sleeveless maxi dresses or t-shirts during the day.
• Mosquitos are quite common in Munnar, especially near water bodies. Make sure to take some mosquito repellent with you.
• And of course, a camera! There are going to be countless photo opportunities for you in Munnar, so don’t forget to pack it. This is the one that I’m currently using.
• Munnar and especially Eravikulam National Park is great for wildlife photographers. So, if you have one, then bringing a zoom lens is also recommended.

Some things to know before visiting Munnar

• Even though there are ATMs in and around Munnar, I would recommend to always have some cash on you. The network in Munnar isn’t all that reliable and the auto-rickshaw and roadside vendors only take cash.
• If you are arriving into Munnar on the same day as taking a tour then I would recommend leaving the Top Station one for your second day instead. Since we could only start ours around mid-day, I felt a little rushed towards the end as it started getting dark before we could cover some spots.
• Even though there are a lot of hiking and trekking spots in Munnar, most are only accessible with a guide. If you rather go independently, then research in advance to double check if you are even allowed to access your preferred location.
• If you want to trek to the Anamudi Peak inside the Eravikulam National Park then you can get permission from the Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.
• Last but not the least, please do not support elephant villages and other places that use animals as an attraction. Munnar is a place where you can watch them in their natural habitat drinking water by the lake, so there really is no good reason to contribute to animal cruelty.

Final Thoughts

Munnar is a truly incredible destination and it boosts so many interesting lakes, waterfalls, national parks and tea estates that you will never experience a dearth of options when visiting there. It may look like a small town at first, but the surrounding areas are so vast that there will always be new places to stumble upon. Aptly known as ‘Kashmir of the South’, Munnar truly is one of the best places I have visited in India so far!

I hope this detailed guide about Munnar helped you get a good hold of Kerala’s tea capital and inspired you to discover more of South India. If have any questions or would like to add anything, then please do not hesitate to leave a comment below. I love hearing from you! For additional information, you can also find highlights from Kerala trip on my Instagram account .

Safe travels, Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ Staying at Kumarakom Lake Resort in Kerala ” and “ 50+ Best Kerala Quotes That Make The Perfect Instagram Caption ” too.

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This Post Has 15 Comments

Did you visit Thekkady? That’s another stunning place in Kerala.

Hi Pradeep. No, I did not get to visit Thekkady on this trip unfortunately. It looks really beautiful though and I hope to travel there sometime soon!

Guess What? I was planning to go to Munnar and thought to visit your blog to see what you’re up to and whether any new post has been uploaded by you or not.

And I saw Munnar in the recent post :), you have covered everything in detail. Can you tell me something about the treks in Munnar? from your experience if you have managed to do?

Hi Vansh, thank you so much for reading the post. I am happy to hear that it has been helpful in planning your Munnar trip.

Since I was there only for two nights, I did not get the time to go on a trek myself. But I have heard some good things about the guys at Tea Tales Cafe. They also run their own adventure company, so if you like, you can enquire about treks in person when visiting their cafe in the town centre.

Please let me know if you have any other questions. And have a safe trip!

Thanks Charu for the Info. Keep Inspiring!

Wow, stunning! I will most definitely visit when I’m back in that part of the world because I LOVE tea and nature 🙂 And that food looks delicious!!

I hope you get to return this side soon, Natalie. It wouldn’t even be an exaggeration to say that the air in Munnar smells of tea. You’d really like it!

These tea fields look absolutely stunning and I love your photography! I think we would also love to visit the tea markets in town. Markets, in general, are always so interesting to us because we don’t have anything like that in the US.

Thank you for your kind words, Shelby. And yes, I get what you mean by that. Markets in India are a big thing and although noisy, they do have a charm of their own.

your photos are gorgeous, and all the food looks amazing! i’d really hope to visit munnar, when it’s safe, and i will use your post as a guide… it was so thorough & inspirational 🇮🇳

Thank you so much, Shelley. I hope that the situation here becomes better soon and that you are able to visit when it does. The entire state of Kerala has some of the best food that I have had in the country- I am sure you will like it too!

Lovely post, thanks for sharing! Munnar is on my bucket list and hope to visit soon.

Thank you for reading, Camilla! I hope you can explore Munnar really soon 💗

Interesting Travel Guide of Munnar-Kerala ! Thank you for this amazing post .I am surely going to explore this place.

Thank you for reading it, Pramod. I am pleased to read that you found it useful. Hoping you can go explore Munnar really soon 😊

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Vagamon – kerala travel guide.

Pristine and still untouched by the outer world, Vagamon is among the most magnificent hill stations in Kerala! Located on the Kottayam-Idukki border, this alluring hilly retreat is perched at an astounding height of 1,100m above the sea level and is a hotspot for the adrenaline junkies on a Kerala trip!

Famed as one of the ’50 Most Attractive Places to Visit in India’ by National Geographic Traveller, this heart-warming hill station in Kerala was discovered by the British officials, who later initiated tea plantations within this vicinity. Guarded by three fascinating hills – Thangal, Murugan, and Krisumala, this scenic Kerala hill station is located on the fringe of the great Western Ghats. Dotted with evergreen meadows, never-ending pine forests, wonderful waterfalls, and other natural marvels, a visit to Vagamon is a must while on a Kerala trip.

Owing to the astounding height and the enchanting beauty of Vagamon, it has become one of the most sought after paragliding destinations in Kerala. Adrenaline seekers from all over the country throng this pictorial hill station to showcase their paragliding skills and enjoy the pristine beauty of Vagamon!

How to Reach Vagamon:

Road journeys are considered the best way to reach Vagamon. Located around 100km from Cochin, visitors can hire private taxis and cabs and embark on an exciting journey through some of the most appealing and enthralling trails to reach Vagamon.

2 By Train:

Kottayam at a distance of 64km has the nearest railway station to reach Vagamon. After arrival at the railway station, visitors can avail private taxis, buses, or shared vehicles to reach Vagamon.

Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to reach Vagamon. It is around 120km from this gorgeous hill station in Kerala.

Best Time to Visit Vagamon:

Vagamon is round the year tourist destination in Kerala. The hill station enjoys pleasant temperature throughout the year, and showcases a different look and charm during different seasons of the year. In winters, the hill station enchants its visitors with its mystical beauty. Come summers, it becomes livelier, and it turns all green with the advent of the monsoons.

Places to Visit in Vagamon:

1 Kurisumala:

A pious site among the Christians, Kurisumala is flocked by hundreds of devotees on the eve of Good Friday. Situated atop a scenic hill, the location of Kurisumala makes it a must visit place in Vagamon.

2 Mundakayam Ghat:

This is the place that should not be missed while on a Kerala tour to Vagamon! The hub of paragliding in Kerala, Mundakayam Ghat is a celestial locale and is adorned with all the bounties of Mother Nature.

3 Kurisumala Dairy Farm:

A visit to this dairy farm is the best way to rediscover your roots and experience the quaint charm of rural culture. Run and managed by the Kurisumala monks, it proves to be a wonderful escapade from all the humdrums of city-life.

4 Thangal Para:

A captivating hill in Vagamon, Thangal Para offers astounding views from its peak. A much sought after destination among the adventure seekers, visitors can also explore a cavern within this hillside.

Things to do in Vagamon:

1 Paragliding:

If you are looking for adrenaline pumping activities in Kerala, you must visit Vagamon and indulge in paragliding. Mostly conducted in the locales of Thangal Para, this enthralling activity will give you wings to fly over the breath-taking settings of Vagamon and enjoy bird’s eye view of this gorgeous hill station.

2 Nature Trails:

Jotted with several towering hills and mountains, scenic meadows, evergreen pine forests, and much more, Vagamon proves to be a wonderful destination for nature trails. Visitors can also make it to the tea plantations and have a tryst with the enchanting beauty of Vagamon.

3 Hiking and Trekking:

Being located at an astounding height of 1,100m above the sea level, and encircled with towering peaks, this scenic hill station in Kerala also offers several hiking and trekking trails to the adventure lovers. Mostly easy to moderate, these trails are the best ways to explore the magical beauty of Vagamon.

Hotels in Vagamon:

Unlike other popular tourist destinations in Kerala, Vagamon does not have an ample of stay options. However, this pictorial hill station offers quite a few resorts, hotels, and homestay options to its visitors.

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Popular Destinations

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Kerala Tourism provides tour operators professionally created brochures on Kerala's tourism attractions as a part of our initiative to popularise various prominent destinations around the State. The brochures will be sent free of cost upon genuine requests, but tour operators need to keep in mind that only requests from reputed agents will be considered. Browse the Brochure Gallery provided to enhance the destinations and experiences of God’s Own Country.

The Kerala Ayurveda Experience

The Kerala Backwater Experience

The Kerala Beach Experience

The Kerala Cultural Experience

The Kerala Hill Station Experience

The Kerala Wildlife Experience

Central Kerala

Bekal - Of Gods and the Good Earth

Kovalam & Varkala

Munnar - Glimpses of Heavan

Kumarakom - Romancing the colours of nature

Wayanad - Discover your true nature

Performing Arts of Kerala

Essiential Kerala

North Kerala

South Kerala

Accomodation and Tour Options

Fairs and Festivals

Backwater Map

Trivandrum Kovalam Varkala Map

Cochin and Fort Cochin Map

Contentment

Kerala Travel Mart 2024 Buyer Registration | Register Now

Kerala Tourism invites applications from lifeguards at various beaches in Kollam and Kozhikode

Domestic Partnership Meets 2023-24 | Register Now

International Trade Fairs and B2B Meet, Vietnam - Sep 2023 | Register Now

International Trade Fairs and Roadshows | Sep 2023 - Mar 2024

Kerala Tourism bags PATA Gold Award for its marketing campaign

Kerala Institute of Hospitality Management Rank list for the Post of Library Assistant, Assistant Professor, Lower Division Clerk

Kerala tops the list as the ‘Most Welcoming Region’ in India

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• Kerala at a Glance
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• Where to Stay
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Specialities

• Kerala Food

Videos/Photos

• 360° Videos
• Royalty Free Photos

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For business/trade/classifications and tenders please visit www.keralatourism.gov.in.