Kerala, known as the “God’s Own Country”, is a popular tourist destination in India. With its lush green landscapes, serene beaches, and tranquil backwaters, Kerala attracts visitors from all over the world.
If you are planning a trip to the state of Kerala and want to experience the best of what Kerala has to offer, here are 10 tourist places that you should definitely visit.
1. Munnar:
Munnar, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is a beautiful hill station surrounded by tea plantations, rolling hills, and scenic landscapes.
Munnar is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala and attracts visitors who are looking for a peaceful and picturesque getaway. One of the main draws of Munnar is its tea plantations, which cover much of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can take a guided tour of a tea factory to learn about the production process, sample different varieties of tea, and enjoy the stunning views from the surrounding hills.
In addition to tea plantations, Munnar is also home to a few national parks and wildlife reserves, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
2. Alleppey:
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is famous for its backwaters and is often referred to as the “Venice of the East”.
This charming city is surrounded by a network of canals, lagoons, and lakes, making it the perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride through the backwaters and experience the unique blend of natural beauty and rural life that makes this place so special.
Alleppey is also home to several beautiful beaches, such as Marari and Alappuzha Beach, which are perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.
3. Wayanad:
Wayanad is a beautiful hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. With its rolling hills, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls, this place is a nature lover’s paradise.
Wayanad is also home to several wildlife reserves, such as the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, which are popular destinations for trekking and wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the ancient ruins of the Edakkal Caves, which are believed to be over 3000 years old, or take a dip in the soothing waters of the Banasura Sagar Dam.
This enchanting beauty & greenery of Wayanad makes it a must-visit tourist destination in Kerala.
4. Thekkady:
Thekkady is a popular tourist destination located in the Idukki district of Kerala. This place is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse wildlife.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the main attractions of Thekkady and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and several species of birds. Visitors can take a boat ride through the sanctuary and observe the animals in their natural habitats, or go on a jungle trek to explore the surrounding hills and valleys.
Thekkady is also famous for its spices and is a great place to buy high-quality spices and other local products.
5. Kumarakom:
Kumarakom is a beautiful village located in the Kottayam district of Kerala. This place is famous for its backwaters, bird sanctuary, and tranquil environment.
Kumarakom is surrounded by a network of lagoons and lakes, which are perfect for boat rides and fishing.
Visitors can also explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to several species of migratory birds, or take a leisurely stroll through the lush green fields
6. Kovalam:
Kovalam is a popular beach destination located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. This place is famous for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and coconut palm-lined shores.
Kovalam is a popular destination for surfers and water sports enthusiasts, as the waves are ideal for both activities. Visitors can relax on the beach, go swimming in the warm waters, or take a surf lesson to learn the basics of this exciting sport.
Kovalam is also home to several Ayurvedic spas and wellness centers, where visitors can receive traditional treatments and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
7. Thrissur:
Thrissur, also known as the “Cultural Capital of Kerala”, is a city steeped in history and tradition. This place is famous for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful temples, and vibrant festivals.
Thrissur is home to several historical landmarks, such as the Vadakkunnathan Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in India. Visitors can also attend the famous Thrissur Pooram, a colorful and vibrant festival that takes place annually and features an array of musical and dance performances, fireworks, and elephant processions.
8. Cochin:
Cochin, also known as Kochi, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. This place is famous for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant art scene.
Cochin is home to several historical landmarks, such as the Fort Kochi Beach, which was once a major center of trade and commerce during the colonial era. Visitors can also explore the beautiful Chinese Fishing Nets, which are a unique feature of Cochin and are believed to have been introduced by Chinese traders over 500 years ago.
In addition, Cochin is also a great place to sample the local cuisine, as it is known for its diverse range of traditional dishes and seafood specialties. This makes Cochin one of the must-visit tourist places in Kerala.
9. Calicut:
Calicut, also known as Kozhikode, is a vibrant city located in the Kozhikode district of Kerala.
This place is famous for its rich history, diverse culture, and bustling street markets. Calicut is home to several historical landmarks, such as the Kappad Beach, which was once visited by Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498.
Visitors can also explore the beautiful Sargaalaya Arts and Crafts Village, which showcases the traditional arts and crafts of Kerala, or take a stroll through the bustling street markets to sample the local street food and shop for souvenirs.
10. Bekal:
Bekal is a beautiful beach destination located in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. This place is famous for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and historic fort.
Bekal is home to the Bekal Fort, which is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in India. Visitors can explore the fort and admire the stunning views from the top, or relax on the nearby beach and soak up the sun. In addition, Bekal is also a popular destination for water sports and adventure activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking.
These are the 10 best tourist places to visit in Kerala, each of which offers something unique and special.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful and tranquil getaway, an action-packed adventure, or a cultural experience, Kerala has something for everyone.
So pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty and diversity of this amazing state!