Places to Visit
in Kerala

Kerala, fondly known as "God's Own Country," is one of South India's most loved destinations — a lush tropical state where misty tea hills, tranquil backwaters, golden beaches and centuries-old spice trade towns sit within a few hours' drive of each other. Whether you're planning a relaxed backwater cruise, a hill-station retreat, a wildlife safari or a beach holiday, this guide covers the top places to visit in Kerala so you can plan your itinerary with ease.

Munnar

Munnar is Kerala's postcard hill station, blanketed in rolling tea estates that stretch as far as the eye can see. Beyond the tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and the Top Station viewpoint offers sweeping views into neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Cool weather year-round makes it a favourite for honeymooners and families alike.

Alleppey / Alappuzha

Alleppey is synonymous with Kerala's backwaters. A traditional houseboat cruise along Vembanad Lake and the surrounding canals reveals village life, coconut groves and paddy fields at a gentle pace. An overnight stay on board, with meals cooked fresh by the crew, is one of Kerala's most iconic travel experiences.

Varkala Beach

Varkala offers a rare combination in Kerala — a dramatic red-laterite cliff running directly along the Arabian Sea. Cafes, yoga studios and guesthouses line the cliff top, and the beach below is a peaceful alternative to the busier coastal towns, especially beautiful at sunset.

Thekkady

Thekkady, in the Cardamom Hills, is best known for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where boat safaris on Periyar Lake offer a chance to spot elephants, sambar deer and a variety of birdlife. The surrounding spice plantations, offering guided walks through cardamom, pepper and clove estates, add another dimension to a visit here.

Wayanad

Wayanad is Kerala's green, forested north — a district of waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries and ancient rock-cut caves. The Edakkal Caves feature prehistoric petroglyphs, while the Chembra Peak trek rewards hikers with a heart-shaped lake and panoramic valley views. It's a quieter, less-touristed alternative to Munnar.

Kovalam Beach

Kovalam, near Thiruvananthapuram, is centred around its famous red-and-white Lighthouse Beach. Calm, crescent-shaped coves make it good for swimming, and a string of beachside resorts and restaurants make it a comfortable base to end a Kerala trip, especially if flying out of Trivandrum.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Kerala is best visited between October and March, when the monsoon has cleared and days are warm with cooler evenings — ideal for both the hill stations and the coast. The monsoon season (June–September) brings the state's landscapes to life with greenery and is popular for Ayurvedic wellness stays, though heavy rain can disrupt outdoor sightseeing.

How to Plan Your Kerala Trip

• Start or end your trip in Kochi, which has the best flight connectivity and is central to most destinations.
• Give yourself at least a night each in Munnar, Alleppey (on a houseboat) and Thekkady for a well-rounded first trip.
• Pack light layers — the hill stations of Munnar and Wayanad can get cool in the mornings and evenings.
• Book a private cab or tour package in advance during peak season (December–January) as vehicle and houseboat availability gets tight.

Hire Himachal Cab offers customised Kerala tour packages covering Munnar, Alleppey Backwaters, Varkala Beach, Thekkady, Wayanad and Kovalam Beach, with comfortable vehicles and experienced local drivers. Get in touch on WhatsApp for a personalised itinerary and the best price quote.