There are plenty of reasons why one should visit Kerala. From hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries to historical monuments and vibrant festivals, there is so much to explore in this southern state of India that you will never get bored. Kerala is called God’s own country, and rightly so. This state is famous for its peaceful beaches and serene backwaters. Here are the most unique places to visit in Kerala.
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The 9 Best Places To Visit In Kerala:
1. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey (or Alappuzha) is popularly known as the Venice of India. It tops the list of the best places to visit in Kerala. The city is quite proud of its reputation as one of India’s most beautiful places in Kerala, mostly due to its backwaters. It is also well-known for its houseboat trips, boat racing and beaches. The houseboats go through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, alongside the lush rice fields. Allepey is the perfect destination for cultural and village life experiences.
Places To Visit In Alleppey:
1. Alappuzha Beach
2. Punnamada Lake
3. Krishnapuram Palace (Museum showcasing architecture, arts and culture)
4. Alleppey Backwaters
The best time to visit is October to February.
2. Munnar
Munnar is a little piece of heaven. It has endless tea gardens and narrow lanes that wind between the fresh air scented with spices and the mist-covered mountains. Travellers from all over the world come to this small town to witness its charm and beauty. It is certainly one of the best places to visit in Kerala. You will only say goodbye with a vow to return. If you are looking for hidden gems in Kerala, this destination surely fits the description.
Places To Visit In Munnar:
1. Mattupetty Dam
2. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
3. Munnar Hill Station
4. Eravikulam National Park
5. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (Famous for trekking)
The best time to visit is September to May.
3. Kochi (Cochin)
The port city of Kochi, often known as Cochin, is located in southwest India on the Malabar coast. Its trading history goes back 600 years or more. The city is also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea since it serves as the financial, commercial, and industrial hub of Kerala. It offers an amazing mix of backwaters, beaches, islands, coasts, and plain terrains, and is known for its different languages and ethnic cultures. This is one of the unique places to visit in Kerala for those interested in history and culture.
Places To Visit In Kochi:
1. Mattancherry Palace (Historical Musuem)
2. Fort Kochi
3. Marine Drive Kochi (Picturesque view)
4. Cherai Beach
5. Andhakaranazhi Beach
The best time to visit: is October to March.
4. Kovalam
Kovalam is a globally recognized and highly frequented beach, with three nearby crescent beaches. It has been a popular tourist destination for many years. Kovalam is considered one of the tourist places in Kerala that draws people from all over the world. On the beach, you will find a large, rocky promontory that has formed a lovely harbour with calm seas, perfect for swimming. Kovalam is an ideal place for leisure seekers who want to enjoy the serenity of Kerala.
Things To Do In Kovalam:
1. Vellayani Lake
2. Kovalam Beach
3. Azhimala Cliff and Beach
4. Padmanabhapuram Palace
5. Vizhinjam Light House
The best time to visit is September to March.
5. Wayanad
The hilly district of Wayanad has been a favourite tourist destination in Kerala for years. It is truly a stunning and captivating place with its natural beauty, history, and vibrant culture. Located in the lush Western Ghats, Wayanad is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Kerala. It is filled with attractions and fun activities that will keep you busy, making it one of the best places to visit in Kerala with friends for an adventurous getaway.
Things To Do In Wayanad:
1. Banasura Sagar Dam
2. Edakkal Caves
3. Pookode Lake
4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Soochipara Falls
The best time to visit is October to May.
6. Periyar National Park
What draws visitors to the Periyar National Park? Every age group should visit this particular site because you will love the area’s stunning diversity and heart-stopping surroundings. It is one of the hidden gems in Kerala where you can encounter elephants, tigers, leopards, sambar deer, and exotic bird species.
Things To Do In Periyar National Park:
1. Mullaperiyar Dam
2. Elephant Safari
3. Camping And Bamboo Rafting
The best time to visit is November to February.
7. Varkala
One of South India’s most stunning beach towns is the seaside town of Varkala. Often referred to as the “mini Goa,” it is one of the unique places to visit in Kerala. It offers just as much fun as Goa and boasts a rich cultural heritage and historical background. A must-see for beach and history lovers!
Places To Visit In Varkala:
1. Varkala Cliff Beach
2. Anjuthengu Fort
3. Ponnumthuruthu Island
4. Kaduvayil Juma Masjid
5. Kollam Beach
The best time to visit: is October to March.
8. Thrissur
Thrissur is renowned as Kerala’s cultural hub. The city’s rich spiritual, religious, and cultural heritage draws travellers to this state. Thrissur is one of those tourist places in Kerala that you cannot miss if you are looking for an authentic cultural experience. Its annual festivals and serene temples create a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
Places To Visit In Thrissur:
1. Vazhachal Waterfalls
2. Kerala State Museum and Zoo
3. Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
4. Munnakal Beach
5. Marine World Public Aquarium
The best time to visit is October to March.
9. Bekal
No matter how cliche this sounds, Bekal truly has a beauty that captures the soul. Known for its beaches, backwaters, and forts, this little town is one of the hidden gems in Kerala. The largest fort in Kerala, Bekal Fort, is located here and is the favourite attraction of this picturesque town.
Things To Do In Bekal:
1. Bekal Fort
2. Bekal Beach
3. Malik Deenar Juma Masjid (One of the oldest mosques in India)
4. Chandragiri Fort
5. Shree Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple
The best time to visit is October to March.
Conclusion:
While you can visit Kerala anytime, the ideal time to travel is during winter (October to March). Kerala enjoys beautiful weather during this time of year with lower humidity levels. Winter is the best time to enjoy the tourist places in Kerala, with its enchanting lagoons, serene canals, and aromatic plantations.
Known as God’s own country, Kerala is a stunning state with amazing landscapes and vibrant culture. From the best places to visit in Kerala to the most beautiful places in Kerala, you will be left in awe of its charm. So, as winters are near, book your tickets and plan an unforgettable trip to Kerala!
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