Kerala, also known as God's own country, is a popular tourist destination in India. The state is renowned for its serene backwaters, serene beaches, lush green landscapes, and tranquil hill stations. This land of beauty is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to escape from the hustle-bustle of city life and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
And, when exploring the diverse and picturesque destinations in Kerala, having travel cover is essential. It provides protection against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss of personal belongings. This ensures a worry-free experience, allowing travellers to fully immerse themselves in the state's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant traditions without concerns over unforeseen disruptions.
In this article, explore the top places to visit in Kerala and know the significance of having a comprehensive travel cover.
Top places to visit in Kerala
Here are some of the best places to visit in Kerala.
Munnar
Situated amidst the Western Ghats, Munnar is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and breath-taking landscapes.
- Weather conditions: Munnar enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. Summers (March to May) are mild, while winters (December to February) can be chilly. Monsoons (June to September) bring heavy rainfall.
- Best places to visit: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, Tea Museum.
- Top things to do: Trekking and hiking, visiting tea plantations, boating at Mattupetty Dam, exploring the waterfalls.
- How to reach: Fly to Cochin International Airport and then take a 110 km drive to Munnar. Alternatively, Munnar can be reached by road from major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Embark on a houseboat cruise along the serene backwaters of Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East. Admire the picturesque landscapes, observe village life along the waterways, and savour authentic Kerala cuisine onboard.
- Weather conditions: Alleppey has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The best time to visit is during the cooler, drier months from November to February.
- Best places to visit: Alappuzha Beach, Vembanad Lake, Krishnapuram Palace Marari Beach, Pathiramanal Island, Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple
- Top things to do: Cruise through the backwaters on a houseboat, relax at Alappuzha and Marari Beaches, explore the unique Pathiramanal Island, witness the traditional snake boat races, visit the historic Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple
- How to reach: Fly to Cochin International Airport, then take a taxi or train to Alleppey. Alleppey is well-connected by road and rail from major cities in Kerala.
Kochi (Cochin)
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of Kochi, a port city with a blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and tranquil beaches.
- Weather conditions: Kochi experiences a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The best time to visit is from October to March.
- Best places to visit: Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Chinese Fishing Nets, Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue, Marine Drive.
- Top things to do: Explore the colonial architecture of Fort Kochi, visit the historic Mattancherry Palace, watch the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets in action, shop for antiques in Jew Town, enjoy a sunset cruise on Marine Drive.
- How to reach: Fly to Cochin International Airport or take a train to Ernakulam Junction. Kochi is well-connected by road from all major cities in Kerala.
Thekkady
Home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady offers thrilling wildlife experiences amidst lush forests and scenic hills. Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, trek through the spice plantations, and spot diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, and exotic birds.
- Weather conditions: Thekkady has a mild climate with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. The best time to visit is from September to March.
- Best places to visit: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Murikkady, Mangala Devi Temple, Chellarkovil
- Top things to do: Take a boat safari in Periyar Lake, go on a spice plantation tour in Murikkady, trek to Chellarkovil for panoramic views and visit the ancient Mangala Devi Temple.
- How to reach: Fly to Madurai Airport (140 km away) or Cochin International Airport (190 km away) and then take a taxi to Thekkady. It is also accessible by road from major cities in Kerala.
Kovalam
Relax and rejuvenate at the idyllic beaches of Kovalam, known for their golden sands and azure waters. Indulge in water sports activities, experience traditional Ayurvedic treatments, and witness mesmerising sunset views from the lighthouse beach.
- Weather conditions: Kovalam has a warm, tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The best time to visit is from October to February.
- Best places to visit: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, Samudra Beach, Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
- Top things to do: Relax at the pristine Lighthouse Beach, enjoy water sports at Hawah Beach, visit the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, get an Ayurvedic massage and explore the nearby fishing villages.
- How to reach: Fly to Trivandrum International Airport (15 km away) and then take a taxi to Kovalam. It is also well-connected by road from Trivandrum.
Wayanad
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. This region boasts stunning waterfalls like Meenmutty and Soochipara, dense forests, and wildlife sanctuaries such as Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Weather conditions: Wayanad enjoys a cool climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The best time to visit is from October to May.
- Best places to visit: Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chembra Peak
- Top things to do: Explore the prehistoric Edakkal Caves, boating at Banasura Sagar Dam, trek to Chembra Peak and wildlife safari in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
- How to reach: Fly to Calicut International Airport and then take a 95 km drive to Wayanad. It is also accessible by road from nearby cities.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom, located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, is famous for its tranquil backwaters and houseboat cruises. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, spread across 14 acres, is a paradise for bird watchers, especially during the migratory season. Enjoy a peaceful stay in a houseboat while cruising through the serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Weather conditions: Kumarakom has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The best time to visit is from November to February.
- Best places to visit: Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
- Top things to do: Enjoy a houseboat cruise on Vembanad Lake, bird watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
- How to reach: Fly to Cochin International Airport and then drive 85 km to Kumarakom. It is also accessible by road from major cities in Kerala.
Kozhikode
Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is steeped in history and culture. This coastal city is famous for its beaches, like Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama first landed in India. The bustling Sweet Meat Street (SM Street) is perfect for shopping and tasting local delicacies like Kozhikode halwa. Visit the Pazhassiraja Museum to explore the region's rich past.
- Weather conditions: Kozhikode has a tropical monsoon climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 35°C. The best time to visit is from October to March.
- Best places to visit: Kozhikode Beach, Mananchira Square, Beypore Thusharagiri Waterfalls
- Top things to do: Relax at Kozhikode Beach, explore the historic Beypore port, visit Thusharagiri Waterfalls, enjoy local cuisine at Mananchira Square
- How to reach: Fly to Calicut International Airport or take a train to Kozhikode Railway Station. Kozhikode is well-connected by road from major cities in Kerala.
Ashtamudi
Ashtamudi Lake, located in Kollam, is one of the largest and most scenic backwaters in Kerala. This palm-shaped water body offers an idyllic setting for houseboat cruises and bird watching. The lake's name means "eight coned" in Malayalam, referring to its eight channels. Enjoy the tranquil environment and the traditional houseboat experience.
- Weather conditions: Ashtamudi has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C. The best time to visit is from November to March.
- Best places to visit: Ashtamudi Lake, Munroe Island, and Sasthamkotta Lake
- Top things to do: Houseboat cruise on Ashtamudi Lake, explore Munroe Island and visit Sasthamkotta Lake
- How to reach: Fly to Trivandrum International Airport or Cochin International Airport and then take a taxi to Ashtamudi. It is also accessible by road from major cities in Kerala.
Bekal
Bekal is known for its well-preserved fort, Bekal Fort, which offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The fort's strategic location and massive structure make it a popular tourist attraction. The nearby Bekal Beach is perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. Bekal is also home to several luxury resorts, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
- Weather conditions: Bekal has a warm, humid climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The best time to visit is from October to March.
- Best places to visit: Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, and Chandragiri Fort
- Top things to do: Explore the historic Bekal Fort, relax at Bekal Beach and visit Chandragiri Fort.
- How to reach: Fly to Mangalore Airport and then drive 70 km to Bekal. It is also accessible by road from nearby cities.
Guruvayur
Guruvayur is a significant pilgrimage site, known for the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. This ancient temple attracts thousands of devotees each year. The town is steeped in spiritual significance and offers a glimpse into Kerala's rich religious traditions. Don't miss the elephant sanctuary at Punnathur Kotta, which houses temple elephants.
- Weather conditions: Guruvayur has a warm, tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C. The best time to visit is from October to March.
- Best places to visit: Guruvayur Temple and Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary
- Top things to do: Seek blessings at Guruvayur Temple and visit Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary
- How to reach: Fly to Cochin International Airport and then drive 80 km to Guruvayur. It is also accessible by road and rail from major cities in Kerala.
Idukki
Idukki is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, with its rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque tea gardens. The Idukki Arch Dam, one of the highest in Asia, is a marvel of engineering. Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants and tigers. The hill stations of Munnar and Thekkady are also located in Idukki, offering breathtaking views and a cool climate.
- Weather conditions: Idukki has a cool, pleasant climate with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The best time to visit is from October to March.
- Best places to visit: Idukki Arch Dam, Periyar National Park and Hill View Park.
- Top things to do: Visit Idukki Arch Dam, explore Periyar National Park, and relax at Hill View Park
- How to reach: Fly to Cochin International Airport and then drive 100 km to Idukki. It is also accessible by road from nearby cities.
Kannur
Kannur is known for its pristine beaches, such as Payyambalam and Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, where you can drive your vehicle right onto the sand. The city is also famous for its traditional Theyyam performances, a ritualistic art form unique to the region. St. Angelo Fort, built by the Portuguese, is a historical landmark worth exploring.
- Weather conditions: Kannur has a tropical monsoon climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C. The best time to visit is from October to March.
- Best places to visit: Kannur Beach, St. Angelo Fort, Arakkal Museum
- Top things to do: Relax at Kannur Beach, explore St. Angelo Fort and visit Arakkal Museum
- How to reach: Fly to Calicut International Airport and then drive 120 km to Kannur. It is also accessible by road and rail from major cities in Kerala.
Kasargod
Kasargod is home to the imposing Bekal Fort and the serene backwaters of Valiyaparamba. The fort, with its extensive walls and scenic views, is a major attraction. The Ananthapura Lake Temple, known for its unique location on a lake, is another must-visit site. The region's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a captivating destination.
- Weather conditions: Kasargod enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September.
- Best places to visit: Bekal Fort, Chandragiri Fort, Ananthapura Lake Temple.
- Top things to do: Explore Bekal Fort, visit Chandragiri Fort, seek blessings at Ananthapura Lake Temple.
- How to reach: Kasargod is accessible by road and rail. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, approximately 70 km away.
Kavvayi Backwaters
Located in the northern part of Kerala, Kavvayi Backwaters is a hidden gem. This tranquil water body offers a perfect setting for houseboat cruises and canoeing. The untouched beauty and serenity of Kavvayi make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Weather conditions: Kavvayi Backwaters experience a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. Moderate rainfall occurs during the monsoon season from June to September.
- Best places to visit: Kavvayi Island, Valiyaparamba Backwaters.
- Top things to do: Cruise along Kavvayi Backwaters, explore Kavvayi Island, enjoy birdwatching.
- How to reach: Kavvayi Backwaters can be reached by road from nearby towns like Kannur and Kasargod. The nearest railway station is Payyanur, about 12 km away.
Kizhunna Beach
Kizhunna Beach, located near Kannur, is a secluded and pristine beach perfect for a quiet retreat. The golden sands and clear blue waters make it an ideal spot for relaxation and beach activities. The beach is relatively untouched by commercial tourism, preserving its natural charm.
- Weather conditions: Kizhunna Beach enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The weather remains warm and pleasant throughout the year.
- Best places to visit: Kizhunna Beach.
- Top things to do: Relax on the pristine shores, swim in the shallow waters, enjoy beach activities.
- How to reach: Kizhunna Beach is located near Kannur in North Kerala and can be reached by road. The nearest railway station is Kannur Railway Station, approximately 11 km away.
Kuttanad
Known as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala," Kuttanad is famous for its vast paddy fields and unique below-sea-level farming. The backwaters of Kuttanad offer stunning views and a glimpse into the traditional agrarian lifestyle of Kerala. Houseboat cruises through the backwaters provide an immersive experience of the region's natural beauty and culture.
- Weather conditions: Kuttanad experiences a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The region receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September.
- Best places to visit: Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, known for its serene backwaters and scenic beauty and Alappuzha, famous for its network of canals, backwaters, and houseboat cruises.
- Top things to do: Take a houseboat cruise on Vembanad Lake and enjoy the tranquil backwaters and explore the picturesque villages of Kuttanad and experience the local way of life.
- How to reach: Kuttanad is located in Alappuzha district and can be reached by road from nearby towns like Alappuzha and Kottayam. The nearest railway station is Alappuzha Railway Station, located approximately 22 km away.
