No wonder Kerala is dubbed ‘God’s Own Country’. It is a remarkable blend of palm-fringed beaches, misty hills, backwaters, and bold traditions. From Kochi’s cultural tales to Munnar’s tea trails, every city offers a fresh vibe for exploration of the unseen. With spices, festivals, and high-spirited markets, this tropical state is India’s go-to spot for laid-back yet rich travel experiences. We bring you the best Kerala Travel Guide to help with crafting your dream trip to the Malabar Coast!
Why Visit Kerala?
Whether it’s canoeing through lesser-known canals, witnessing Theyyam rituals in village shrines, or unwinding at Ayurveda retreats, Kerala tourism, offers soulful experiences beyond the usual trails.
Backwaters & Houseboats – Cruise through serene canals in places like Alappuzha and Kumarakom. Skip the touristy boat cruises and hop on a local ferry to get a peek into everyday backwater life.
Hill Stations & Tea Trails – Explore the misty highlands of Munnar and Wayanad, charming with their cool weather, waterfalls, and tea plantation walks.
Beaches with a Twist – From Varkala’s hilltop ocean views to Kovalam’s golden sands, Kerala’s beaches offer both relaxation and water sports.
Cultural Experiences – Witness Theyyam in Kannur, classical dance in Kochi, and temple festivals like Thrissur Pooram.
Wildlife Encounters – Visit Periyar in Thekkady or Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for elephant sightings, bamboo rafting, and spice plantation tours.
A Complete Kerala Backwater Tour will show you the beauty of the glistening greens!
#1 Did You Know?
Elephants have their own retirement homes here in Kerala!
Top Cities to Visit in Kerala
Each city in Kerala has something to offer to the travellers who set foot in the region. Here are some of the top cities that you must add to your trip list.
1. Thiruvananthapuram – The Capital City of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala’s capital, is a perfect mix of tradition and colonial-era charm. Visit royal palaces, ancient temples, and quiet beaches while exploring art, history, and the scintillating streets.
2. Kochi – The Port City
Kochi boasts of Portuguese churches, Chinese fishing nets, and buzzing art cafés. This historic port city is perfect for slow travel, to explore forts, sip local coffee, and catch a Kathakali show.
3. Alappuzha – Backwater Bliss
Often called the Venice of the East, Alappuzha is known for peaceful houseboat cruises, village life, and paddy fields on water. Drift along the backwaters and soak in the rhythm of life on the canals.
4. Kumarakom Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Kumarakom is a quiet retreat surrounded by bird calls and green waterways. You can spot rare migratory birds at the sanctuary or enjoy canoe rides through lotus-covered canals
Food lovers should not miss out on the Kumarakom Culinary Tour.
5. Munnar and Wayanad – The Mountain Getaway
Hill lovers, this is your dream. Munnar‘s tea gardens and Wayanad‘s forest trails offer cool air, misty mornings, and peaceful treks. With their waterfalls, spice farms, or wildlife, the mountains will steal your heart!
6. Thekkady – Hi to Wildlife
Home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady shows you Kerala’s wild side. It’s time to have fun with bamboo rafting, forest walks, and watching elephants by the lake.
7. Varkala – Cliffside Adventures
Varkala is where dramatic cliffs meet calm beaches. Walk along the cliff path lined with cafés and yoga spots, then dip into the Arabian Sea below.
8. Kannur – Land of Looms and Theyyam
Kannur is steeped in ritual and rhythm. Watch fiery Theyyam performances in village shrines or visit handloom weaving units. It’s a land where ancient traditions still pulse through the veins of the locals.
9. Kovalam – Classic Serene Waves
Kovalam is Kerala’s iconic beach town. Its lighthouse, clean sands, and calm waves make it ideal for swimming or sunbathing.
10. Guruvayur – The Temple Town
Come for the culture, stay for the spiritual peace. Guruvayur is one of Kerala’s holiest towns, known for its grand Krishna temple, morning poojas, and elephant processions.
#2 Did You Know?
Theyyam performers wear costumes that can weigh up to 50 kg!
Major Tourist Attractions in Kerala
Historical Attractions
1. Fort Kochi – Kochi
With Fort Kochi, explore Dutch, Portuguese, and British history while visiting colonial lanes, ancient churches, spice markets, and art galleries.
2. Kuthiramalika Palace – Thiruvananthapuram
Built by the king Swathi Thirunal, this palace features intricately carved wooden horses and royal artifacts.
To know more, check out our Kuthiramalika Palace page
3. Bekal Fort – Kasargod
A massive clifftop fort overlooking the sea, great for history buffs and nature lovers alike. It is often featured in film shoots for its dramatic views.
To know more, check out our Bekal Fort page
Religious Shrines
1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple – Thiruvananthapuram
Famed for its treasure vaults and Dravidian architecture, this temple is one of the richest and most sacred in India.
2. Guruvayur Temple – Thrissur
A famous pilgrimage spot, where devotees line up for darshan, elephant rituals, and the temple’s famed prasadam.
3. Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple – Kannur
The shrine is known for its Theyyam rituals and open-door policy to all faiths. You’ll often find dogs peacefully lounging around the temple.
Wildlife and Adventure
1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Thekkady
Go bamboo rafting, jungle trekking, or join guided walks to spot wild elephants and other forest animals.
To know more, check out our Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary page
2. Athirappilly Waterfalls – Thrissur
A thunderous 80-ft waterfall surrounded by lush forest, known for its magical cascades and fewer crowds.
To know more, check out our Athirappilly Waterfalls page
3. Silent Valley National Park – Palakkad
A less-trodden rainforest with rich biodiversity and zero commercial activity. Great for eco-conscious travellers and wildlife enthusiasts.
To know more, check out our Silent Valley National Park page
Ayurveda and Backwaters
1. Ashtamudi Lake – Kollam
This scenic lake is perfect for slow houseboat cruises and sunset canoe rides. It’s also home to authentic Ayurvedic resorts offering lakeside therapies in an off-beat setting.
2. Nileshwaram – Kasargod
Nileshwaram is the cultural capital of North Kerala. Stay at riverside retreats where personalised wellness programs meet Malabari hospitality.
3. Vaikom – Kottayam
A lesser-known backwater town with narrow canals, village walks, and traditional Ayurvedic centres. It’s ideal for travellers seeking authentic healing experiences in a quiet, rural atmosphere.
Explore the top-rated Tourist Attractions in Kerala for an unforgettable trip.
#3 Did You Know?
In Kerala, you’ll find a beach with a drive-in road in Muzhappilangad!
Popular Fairs & Festivals in Kerala
| Festival | Why is it celebrated | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Onam (August-September) | Harvest festival celebrating the return of the mythical King Mahabali. | – Pookalam (flower art) – Onasadya feast – Vallamkali (boat races) – Traditional dances |
| Thrissur Pooram (April-May) | Temple festival showcasing rituals and music. | – Decorated elephants – Chenda melam (drum orchestra) – Massive fireworks – Cultural processions |
| Vishu (April 14) | Marks the Malayali New Year | – Vishukkani (Malayali traditional items) display – Fireworks at dawn – Gifts and coins (Vishukkaineetam) – Special Vishu feast |
| Attukal Pongala (Feb-March) | Women offer Pongala (sweet porridge) to Goddess Attukalamma for blessings. | – Millions of women cooking – Devotional chanting – Spiritual atmosphere – The world’s largest women’s gathering |
| Nehru Trophy Boat Race (Second Saturday of August) | Held in memory of Nehru’s visit and his love for boat races. | – Snake boats racing – Cheering crowds – Traditional music – Festive vibe on Punnamada Lake |
Plan your visit around the colourful Festivals in Kerala.
What is the Best Time to Visit Kerala?
Kerala is a year-round destination, each season special in its own way.
Winter (Oct–Feb, 18–29°C): Ideal for sightseeing, backwaters, and beaches with cool, pleasant weather.
Summer (Mar–May, 25–35°C): Warmer days that are perfect for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.
Monsoon (Jun–Sep, 22–32°C): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and the best time for Ayurvedic treatments.
To learn more, check out our guide on the best time to visit Kerala.
#4 Did You Know?
Kerala is one of the few Indian states with matrilineal traditions.
How to Reach Kerala?
By Air:
Kerala has 4 major international airports:
Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) – South Kerala hub
Kochi (COK) – Central Kerala and backwater access
Calicut/Kozhikode (CCJ) – Gateway to North Kerala
Kannur (CNN) – Malabar and coastal towns
Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru offer daily direct flights.
By Rail:
Kerala is well-connected via Indian Railways.
Major stations: Thiruvananthapuram Central, Ernakulam Junction, Kozhikode, Kottayam, Alappuzha.
By Road:
KSRTC buses run from all neighbouring states. Travellers on a road trip can enjoy green canopies greeting them from either side of the highway.
Well-connected by NH 66, NH 544, and NH 183.
Distance from Main Hubs
| City | Approximate Distance (By Road) | Approximate Duration (Flight) | Approximate Duration (Train) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 2,700 km | 3.5 – 4 hrs | 42 – 48 hrs |
| Mumbai | 1,340 km | 2.5 hrs | 27 – 30 hrs |
| Pune | 1,210 km | 2 hrs | 24 – 26 hrs |
| Hyderabad | 1,070 km | 1.5–2 hrs | 24 – 25 hrs |
| Chennai | 690 km | 1.5 hrs | 12 – 14 hrs |
To know more, visit how to reach Kerala page.
Kerala Travel Tips and Local Insights
Avoid hill stations in July due to landslides.
Book houseboats early during weekends or festivals.
Dress modestly at temples. Some of them enforce strict dress codes.
Carry cash in rural regions. ATMs may be scarce.
Travel by KSRTC’s ‘Venad’ or ‘Garuda’ buses for affordable and scenic intercity rides
Plan a hassle-free vacation with the best Kerala Travel Packages.
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