20 Famous Places to Visit in Kerala in 2026 for a Memorable Holiday

Posted on Monday, August 31st, 2026 by Neha Sharma Leave a Comment

Kerala becomes much EASIER to appreciate once you stop trying to fit it into one kind of holiday. One trip can take you from tea-covered hills in Munnar to a quiet backwater village, then down to a beach at Varkala or into the forests around Thekkady. Add old trading quarters, waterfalls, wildlife, local food, and long stretches of coast, and the choices can get surprisingly wide.   

That variety is precisely what makes it so important to choose the right places to visit in Kerala. A family holiday may need a different route from a couple’s getaway, while a monsoon trip calls for different plans than a winter escape. Kerala Tourism itself groups the state’s attractions across hills, beaches, backwaters, waterfalls, wildlife, and heritage sites, reflecting just how different the experiences can be.

For a Kerala trip in 2026, these 20 destinations offer a useful mix of well-known favorites and places that deserve more attention.  

Quick Look: Best Places to Visit in Kerala

Place	Best Known For	Ideal For	Recommended Time
Munnar	Tea estates and hills	Couples, families, nature lovers	2-3 days
Alleppey	Backwaters and houseboats	Families, couples	1-2 days
Kochi	Heritage and food	First-time visitors, culture lovers	1-2 days
Wayanad	Forests and outdoor activities	Families, adventure lovers	2-3 days
Thekkady	Wildlife and spice plantations	Families, nature lovers	2 days
Kovalam	Beaches and coastal relaxation	Couples, families	1-2 days
Varkala	Cliffs, beaches, and sunsets	Couples, solo travellers	1-2 days
Kumarakom	Backwaters and birdlife	Couples, slow travellers	1-2 days
Vagamon	Meadows and hills	Families, couples	1-2 days
Bekal	Fort and coastline	History lovers, couples	1 day
Athirappilly	Waterfalls and forest	Nature lovers	1 day
Kannur	Beaches and heritage	Culture lovers, families	1-2 days
Kozhikode	Food and Malabar heritage	Food lovers, families	1-2 days
Kollam	Backwaters and coast	Slow travellers	1-2 days
Marari	Quiet beach escape	Couples, families	1-2 days
Thiruvananthapuram	Heritage and city sights	Families, culture lovers	1-2 days
Idukki	Dams, hills and nature	Nature lovers	1-2 days
Poovar	Estuary and backwaters	Couples	1 day
Kuttanad	Village life and waterways	Families, photographers	Half 1 day
Thenmala	Eco-tourism and adventure	Nature and adventure lovers	1 day

1. Munnar

Munnar is the hill station many travellers picture when they think about Kerala, & there is a good reason for that. The view changes noticeably as you climb into the Western Ghats: tea plantations spread across slopes, roads wind through valleys, and the air becomes cooler than on the coast.  

The town sits at roughly 1,500-2,500 meters above sea level, while Anamudi, South India’s highest peak, is in the wider Munnar region.

Spend at least two days here if you want more than a quick stop. Tea plantations, Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake, and Eravikulam National Park are among the major attractions around Munnar. 

Munnar works particularly well for couples and families, but hikers and photographers will find plenty to keep them occupied too. The cooler months are popular, while the monsoon brings greener scenery but can affect outdoor plans.

Good to know: Munnar is a hill destination, so keep some flexibility in your schedule for rain and road conditions.

2. Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Allepey is actually where Kerala’s backwaters transform into the main attraction, beyond being just a scenic view that you encounter along the way.

This place, though, offers you an entirely different and unique experience when you stay on a traditional-style houseboat. However, you don’t really need to stay overnight on a houseboat to enjoy Alappuzha. Day cruises or short boat tours are very helpful for those limited time travelers who wish to have some experience.

Just surrounding the waterways are the coconut plantations, narrow water channels, paddy fields, and villages that are all close to that source of water. So, in this context, Alleppey is a wonderful place for travelers looking to relax after visiting so many busy spots!

Just one overnight stay will be sufficient for those tourists who wish to complete their Kerala visit rapidly, whereas with two days, you can actually do what you desire.

Best suited to: couples, families, and travellers who want a relaxed backwater experience.

Practical tip: If you’re booking a houseboat, check what is included, the route, meal arrangements, and boarding details before confirming. 

3. Kochi

Kochi is the destination to choose when you want Kerala’s history and contemporary life in the same trip.  

Fort Kochi is the obvious starting point, with its historic streets, waterfront, and old trading connections. Mattancherry and Jew Town add another layer, while museums, galleries, cafés, and local restaurants make the area easy to explore without packing your day with attractions. 

Kochi also makes practical sense as the beginning or end of a Kerala itinerary. Many travellers arrive here before heading to Munnar, Thekkady, or Alappuzha.

The city was Kerala’s second-most visited destination among domestic tourists in 2025, according to Kerala Tourism statistics, while Kochi City ranked first for foreign tourist visits.

Give Kochi at least one full day. Two days are better if you enjoy heritage walks, food, and slower urban exploration. 

4. Wayanad

Wayanad feels different from Kerala’s coastal destinations. Here, the focus shifts towards forests, hills, waterfalls, plantations & outdoor activities. 

Edakkal Caves are one of the area’s most distinctive attractions, while Pookode Lake, Kuruva Island and several waterfalls provide other options. Kerala Tourism’s Green Carpet initiative lists these among prominent Wayanad tourist destinations.

Wayanad is a fantastic choice for families who enjoy nature, as well as for travellers who want trekking and outdoor experiences. It is also large enough that trying to cover everything in one day is not particularly useful.

Plan two or three days if Wayanad is an important part of your trip. Weather can influence trekking, road travel and waterfall visits, particularly during heavy rain.

Best for: Nature, wildlife, outdoor activities, and travellers who prefer a quieter hill setting.

5. Thekkady

Thekkady is a great place in Kerala where a holiday can transform into a more nature and wildlife experience.

The main attraction for tourists has been the scenery around Periyar, which is home to the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The view of the forest from the lake gives a unique perspective that you don’t usually get while walking, and it has a completely different feel. It also offers some well-guided nature activities, which are a refreshing break from the usual, and one can also opt for a day trip to the spice plantations.

Don’t just consider Thekkady as a way of connecting Munnar to Alappuzha via a small halt. Allocating two days for your trip will be sufficient to cover the attractions at a more leisurely pace.

It is a family-friendly place, the reason being that a lot of things you can do here are in contact with nature but they do not involve much physical exertion or long treks.

Thekkady remains a very popular destination among tourists, and it was in the year 2025 that Kerala Tourism recorded more than 750,000 domestic tourists who visited it. 1

Tip: Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed. Plan the trip around the forest experience rather than expecting to see a particular animal.

6. Kovalam

Kovalam is one of Kerala’s most established beach destinations and makes an easy addition to a southern Kerala itinerary.

The beaches here are the main attraction, but Kovalam also works well for travellers who want a few slower days after sightseeing. The coastal setting, restaurants, and wellness-oriented experiences make it suitable for couples as well as families.

It’s also conveniently positioned for combining with Thiruvananthapuram and nearby attractions.

Kovalam ranked among Kerala’s leading destinations for both domestic and foreign visitors in 2025, according to state tourism statistics.

Beach conditions vary with the season. During the monsoon, rain and sea conditions can affect swimming and outdoor plans, so don’t build an itinerary around beach activities alone.

Ideal stay: One or two nights.

7. Varkala

Varkala is different from Kovalam in quite several ways. What mainly distinguishes Varkala is the towering cliff that overlooks the Arabian Sea. The place plus a few restaurants, shops and a place to have your tea, lunch or dinner away from the noisy crowd.

Although the beach below Definitely is a major plus point of the place, Varkala is not only restricted to swimming and sunbathing on the beach. Quite a few tourists get attracted by its quiet and calm nature which often goes well with some time for wellness or simply relaxing without much rushing around.

Varkala topped as Kerala’s domestic tourist spot for year 2025 recording domestic visits more than 700,000.

Couples get on so well but also have fun if families come with them.

Best time: The cooler and drier months are generally easier for beach sightseeing and outdoor activities.

8. Kumarakom

Kumarakom is another excellent backwater destination, but its atmosphere is generally quieter than the busy center of Alappuzha.

Located around Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is particularly appealing for travellers who don’t want to fill every hour with sightseeing. You can combine a backwater cruise with birdwatching, village experiences, and time at your accommodation.

It is particularly attractive for couples and travellers celebrating a special occasion, but families looking for a slower stay can also enjoy it.

Kumarakom also remains an important tourism destination in Kerala. Kerala tourism figures recorded more than 450,000 domestic visits in 2025.

Choose Kumarakom over Alleppey if you prefer a more relaxed base and don’t need a packed list of attractions.

9. Vagamon 

Vagamon is a useful alternative to the more famous hill stations.

The destination is known for rolling meadows, hills, and a cooler setting, and Kerala Tourism includes Vagamon among the state’s prominent hill destinations.

It works particularly well for travellers who want mountain scenery without having to plan their entire trip around Munnar. The pace here can be slower, making it a suitable option for a short break.

Families can spend time outdoors, while couples may prefer the quieter surroundings.

Give Vagamon one or two days. It can also be combined with other destinations in central Kerala, depending on your route.

Why choose it? Go to Vagamon when you want a hill-station experience with a less conventional itinerary.

10. Bekal

Bekal gives history a place in your Kerala tour by the means of one of the state’s most prominent coastal forts.

Bekal Fort faces out to the Arabian Sea, giving rise to a place where you can see the mix of different architectural styles, historical aspects, and the view of the coast together. It is a special treat for visitors who are crossing northern Kerala rather than trying to fit in a southern tour.

Also, being near to the sea is one more reason to not just take pictures & hurry away.

In 2025, Bekal received over 3,200 international tourists and became a featured spot in the Kasaragod district by Kerala Tourism.

Having one day will allow you to do the main things, but staying the night is a better idea if your tour of Northern Kerala takes longer.

Best for: History lovers, photographers, and travelers planning a northern Kerala route.

11. Athirappilly

Athirappilly is the destination to put on your list if waterfalls are high on your Kerala itinerary.

The waterfall lies in the Sholayar forest range and is officially described by Kerala Tourism as the largest waterfall in Kerala. Vazhachal Waterfalls and other nearby attractions make the area suitable for a full day rather than a quick roadside stop.

The surrounding forest is also notable for birdlife, including hornbill species.

Water flow changes with rainfall, so the experience can look quite different across seasons. Heavy monsoon conditions can also affect roads and outdoor access.

Athirappilly works especially well as a day trip from central Kerala or as part of a route connecting Kochi and nearby destinations.

12. Kannur

Kannur offers a glimpse of northern Kerala that is easy to miss on a typical Kochi-Munnar-Alleppey itinerary.

The district combines beaches, historic sites, and traditional cultural experiences. Payyambalam and other coastal spots are ideal for a slower day, while travellers interested in Kerala’s performing traditions may want to plan around a Theyyam experience when one is taking place. 

Don’t assume Kannur is simply another beach destination. Its cultural side is one of the reasons to include it.

A one or two day stay works well, particularly for travelers traveling north from Kozhikode or south from Kasaragod.

Good for: beaches, families, and travellers who want to see a less touristy side of Kerala.

13. Kozhikode

Kozhikode is also known as Calicut. It is a strong pick for travellers who believe food should be part of the itinerary, not an afterthought.

The city has a long connection with Malabar’s trading history, while its food scene gives visitors plenty of reasons to linger. Kozhikode Beach is an inviting place to spend an evening, while nearby attractions add options for a longer stay.

Kerala Tourism’s 2025 statistics placed Kozhikode City fifth among domestic tourist destinations in the state, with nearly one million domestic visits.

Try local Malabar specialties during your stay rather than sticking entirely to familiar restaurant menus.

One or two days are enough for a first visit. 

Best for: Food lovers, families, history enthusiasts, and travellers exploring northern Kerala.

14. Kollam

Kollam tends to be neglected in favor of Alappuzha, but it has a different character definitely worth seeing in its own right if you want the backwaters without going for the most obvious option.

Offers a mixture of rivers, beaches, and close nature attractions.

Can base in Kollam to visit Thenmala or travel to Varkala.

Kerala Tourism recorded that there were 300300 domestic tourist visits in the month of 2025 to Kollam. One day is enough for just a visit, but if you want to stay for longer, then it does make some sense if you want to use it as a typical southern Kerala route.

Travel idea: Combine Kollam with Varkala, Thenmala, or other nearby attractions rather than treating it as an isolated stop.

15. Marari

Marari is for travellers who want their beach holiday to be about more than just a long list of activities.

The beach area near Mararikulam is better suited to slowing down, taking walks, and spending time near the coast. It can be particularly appealing after a few busy sightseeing days in Kochi or inland Kerala.

Marari also appears in Kerala Tourism’s listed tourism packages, including cycling and beach-and-backwater experiences.  

Families and couples can both enjoy it, but it is especially suitable for travellers who value downtime.

One or two nights are usually enough.  

Choose Marari over a busier beach destination if: your ideal Kerala holiday includes fewer schedules and more time by the sea.

16. Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, deserves far more than a mere airport transfer. This charming city offers the perfect mix of traditional heritage with museums, historic temples, and urban centers and a convenient way to reach nearby coastal locations.

The city also happens to be a great base from which you can tour Kovalam and the southern region of Kerala.

The city stood at the third position for the highest domestic tourist arrivals in Kerala for 2025, said reports from the state tourist board, where it received almost two and a half million domestic visitors.

Individuals who have a passion for historical buildings and ancient architecture are advised to set aside some time in the city; treating the city as just another stop in the itinerary from Kovalam should not be their main idea of exploring the city.

Most tourists prefer to come back for another day or two, plus more time in case you have other places in mind to travel to besides the close ones.

Best for: Families, heritage lovers, first-time visitors to southern Kerala, and travellers combining city and beach experiences.  

17. Idukki

Idukki isn’t one single attraction. It’s a large hill district where dams, forests, viewpoints, plantations, and smaller mountain destinations create many possible routes.

The Idukki Arch Dam is one of the area’s best-known landmarks, while destinations such as Ramakkalmedu, Vagamon, and other nature spots offer different experiences.

The district is ideal for travellers who prefer scenery and outdoor exploration to conventional city sightseeing.

Because distances between attractions can be significant, avoid trying to cover too much in one day. Your exact route will depend heavily on where you are staying.

Ideal stay: One or two days for selected attractions, longer if Idukki is a major focus of the trip.

18. Poovar

Poovar is a good choice for travellers who want to stay close to the beaches of southern Kerala but prefer a quieter setting.

The area is known for its meeting of river, backwater, and sea landscapes. It is particularly suitable for boat-based sightseeing and relaxed stays.

Kerala Tourism places Poovar about 27 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram and lists it through its official location and route system.  

Poovar works especially well for couples and can be paired with Kovalam or Thiruvananthapuram.

One day can cover the main experience, although an overnight stay makes more sense if you’re aiming for a slower trip.

19. Kuttanad

Kuttanad offers travellers a chance to see a side of Kerala that beaches and hill stations do not represent.

Often associated with its low-lying agricultural landscape and waterways, the region rewards slow travel. A boat journey through the backwater network can reveal villages, paddy fields, & everyday life around the water.

Kuttanad also appears among Kerala Tourism’s destinations receiving foreign visitors in 2025.

This isn’t the place to create a packed sightseeing checklist. Instead, treat it as an experience within a broader Alappuzha-area itinerary.

A half-day to one day can be enough, depending on the boat route and activities you choose.

Best for: photography, families, slow travel, and travelers interested in rural landscapes.

20. Thenmala

Thenmala is one of the more interesting additions to a Kerala itinerary for travellers who enjoy ecotourism and outdoor activities.

Kerala Tourism describes it as India’s first planned ecotourism destination, with its attractions organized around culture, adventure & fun zones. Activities and experiences can include trekking, boating, and other outdoor pursuits.

Thenmala can also be combined with nearby Palaruvi Waterfall and other southern Kerala attractions.

It works best for travellers looking for something beyond just beaches and backwaters. Weather matters here, especially if outdoor activities are a major reason for visiting.

One full day is enough for a focused visit, while an overnight stay gives you more time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Which Places to Visit in Kerala Should You Choose?

You don’t need all 20 destinations on one trip. Picking according to your interests will give you a much better itinerary.

If You Love…	Consider Visiting…
Beaches	Varkala, Kovalam, Marari
Hill Stations	Munnar, Vagamon, Wayanad
Backwaters	Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam
Wildlife & Nature	Thekkady, Wayanad, Idukki
History & Heritage	Kochi, Kannur, Thiruvananthapuram
Waterfalls	Athirappilly, Thenmala
Romantic Getaways	Munnar, Varkala, Kumarakom
Family Trips	Munnar, Thekkady, Wayanad, Kochi
Food	Kozhikode, Kochi
Eco-tourism	Thenmala, Wayanad

Best Places to Visit in Kerala by Season

Kerala doesn’t have one perfect travel season for everyone. Your ideal destination depends on what you want to do.

Winter: October to February

This timeframe is generally a comfortable period for sightseeing, hill stations, and outdoor activities.

Good choices include:

• Munnar
• Wayanad
• Thekkady
• Kochi
• Varkala
• Alleppey

The cooler conditions are particularly useful when you plan to spend considerable time outdoors.

Summer: March to May

The coastal & lowland areas can become hot, so hill stations may be more comfortable.

Good choices include:

• Munnar
• Wayanad
• Vagamon
• Thekkady

Summer can also be a useful time for travellers who want to avoid crowds, although temperatures vary considerably across the state.

Monsoon: June to September

Rain changes Kerala dramatically. Hills and forests become greener, waterfalls can become more powerful, and the landscape takes on a different character.

Good choices include:

• Munnar
• Wayanad
• Thekkady
• Athirappilly
• Kumarakom
• Thenmala

However, monsoon travel requires flexibility. Heavy rain can affect trekking, waterfalls, road conditions, and beach activities. Check local conditions before heading out.

Tips for Planning a Kerala Trip in 2026

A little route planning can save a surprising amount of time.

1. Don’t try to cover the whole state

Kerala may look compact on a map, but travelling between hill stations, coastal towns, and northern destinations takes time. Pick a region or create a sensible north-to-south or south-to-central route.

2. Allow extra time for hill roads

Road journeys to places such as Munnar and Wayanad can take longer than a simple map-distance calculation suggests. Kerala Tourism’s own route information provides destination-specific distances and journey estimates, which can be useful when planning.

3. Book popular accommodation early

Hotels and houseboats can become busy during peak travel periods. If your dates are fixed, booking earlier gives you more choice.

4. Be careful with monsoon plans

Don’t schedule a demanding trek, waterfall visit, and long road journey on the same day during periods of heavy rain.

5. Research your houseboat

Ask about the route, boarding location, meals, room arrangements, and what is actually included. Two houseboat packages can offer very different experiences.

6. Leave room for local food

Kerala’s food is one of the easiest ways to make a trip more memorable. Try regional dishes rather than eating only familiar options.

7. Travel respectfully

Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, follow local rules, avoid littering, and be considerate when photographing people or cultural performances.

8. Keep one flexible day

A spare day can be useful when weather, road conditions, or simply a change of plans affects your original itinerary.

How Many Days Do You Need to Explore Kerala?

The right length depends on how much of the state you want to see. Below are some suggested itineraries: 

5 Days

Kochi → Munnar → Thekkady → Alleppey

This is a practical introduction to Kerala, combining heritage, hills, wildlife, and backwaters.

7 Days

Kochi → Munnar → Thekkady → Kumarakom/Alleppey → Varkala

This adds a beach destination without making the itinerary excessively long.

10 Days

Kochi → Munnar → Thekkady → Alleppey → Varkala → Thiruvananthapuram

This itinerary gives you a broader experience covering hills, wildlife, backwaters, beaches, and southern Kerala.

These are sample combinations rather than fixed itineraries. Your route should change depending on your arrival airport, interests, travel pace, and season.

Your Gateway to Kerala Starts With a Flight 

Ready to start your Kerala trip? Fly into Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, or Kozhikode and choose the airport that best fits your itinerary. Popular routes include the following:

• Delhi to Kochi Flights
• Mumbai to Kochi Flights
• Flights from Chennai to Kochi
• Flights from Kolkata to Kochi
• Flights from Bangalore to Kochi
• Flights from Hyderabad to Kochi

Book your flights to Kerala with Travanya to compare available options and find a flight that fits your travel dates and budget.

Things to Do in Kerala

In addition to visiting the main sights, make sure to include experiences that set this trip apart from a typical sightseeing holiday.

Some worthwhile options include:

• Take a houseboat or backwater cruise
• Visit a tea estate in the Munnar region
• Spend time around a wildlife reserve
• Relax at a Kerala beach
• Visit a waterfall
• Try trekking in the hills
• Taste regional Kerala and Malabar dishes
• Walk through the heritage areas of Kochi
• Experience an Ayurvedic wellness treatment at a reputable centre
• Attend a traditional cultural performance
• Explore local villages and agricultural landscapes
• Spend an evening simply watching the sunset by the coast

The best Kerala trip isn’t necessarily the one with the longest attraction list. Occasionally a slower day between two major sightseeing days makes the whole journey more enjoyable.

Conclusion

There isn’t one correct list of the best places to visit in Kerala. A traveler interested in tea estates may fall for Munnar, while someone who wants a quiet beach may prefer Marari. Families may get more from Thekkady and Kochi, while couples might lean towards Varkala, Kumarakom, or Poovar.

That’s the advantage of planning Kerala around your interests rather than trying to copy someone else’s itinerary.

For a first trip, start with a few destinations that offer noticeably different experiences and connect them sensibly. Give yourself enough time to enjoy each place instead of spending half the holiday in transit. Kerala has plenty to see, but you don’t have to see everything in one visit.

FAQs

What are the best places to visit in Kerala?

A: Munnar, Kochi, Alleppey, Thekkady, Wayanad and Varkala are among the most popular choices for first-time visitors. Together, they cover several sides of Kerala: hill landscapes, heritage, backwaters, wildlife and beaches. Your ideal combination depends on the number of days available and whether you prefer nature, culture, relaxation or outdoor activities.

How many days are enough for a Kerala trip?

A: Five days can work for a focused first trip covering Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey. Seven days allow you to add a destination such as Varkala or Kumarakom. Ten days give you more flexibility and make it easier to include southern Kerala without rushing through every stop.

Which is the best time to visit Kerala?

A: October to February is generally comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities, while March to May can work well for hill destinations. June to September is the monsoon period, which brings lush scenery and stronger waterfalls but can also affect outdoor plans and road travel. The best time depends on the type of trip you want.

Which is better for a Kerala trip, Munnar or Alleppey?

A: They offer completely different experiences. Munnar is better for tea plantations, hills, cooler weather and outdoor sightseeing. Alleppey is better for backwaters, houseboats and a slower coastal-lowland experience. If you have enough time, combining both is more rewarding than choosing one.

What are the best places to visit in Kerala with family?

A: Munnar, Thekkady, Wayanad, Kochi and Alleppey are strong family choices. They offer a mix of nature, sightseeing and activities without requiring the entire trip to revolve around adventure. Families should still consider children’s ages and weather conditions when deciding how much trekking or long-distance road travel to include.

Which are the best places to visit in Kerala for couples?

A: Munnar, Varkala, Kumarakom, Marari and Poovar are popular choices for couples. Munnar offers mountain scenery, while Varkala and Marari suit beach-focused trips. Kumarakom and Poovar work well for quieter stays where the itinerary can be kept deliberately light.

Is Kerala worth visiting in 2026?

A: Yes, especially if you want a trip that combines several types of experiences rather than focusing on one attraction. Kerala continues to offer established destinations such as Munnar, Kochi and Varkala alongside quieter places such as Thenmala and Kuttanad. Current Kerala Tourism statistics also show strong visitor numbers across many of these destinations.

What is Kerala famous for?

A: Kerala is particularly associated with its backwaters, hill stations, beaches, forests, wildlife, Ayurveda, food, and heritage. The state offers enough variety to design a trip around very different interests. Kerala Tourism itself categorizes attractions across hills, beaches, backwaters, waterfalls, wildlife, lakes, and rivers, among other experiences.