Kerala, gracefully stretched along the Malabar Coast, is fondly called “God’s Own Country” for good reasons. A land where mist-covered hills guard emerald plantations, ancient healing flourishes beside modern luxury, and the coast surrenders to backwaters and golden beaches, Kerala beckons every traveller to lose themselves in its magic. Whether you seek adventure, spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or serene relaxation, Kerala is a universe in miniature.
Top Places to Visit in Kerala
Munnar: The Dreamy Hill Station
1,600 meters above sea level, Munnar, the iconic hill station is cradled by undulating tea estates, lush forests, waterfalls, and winding mountain streams. Its name signifies the meeting point of three rivers, and its rolling landscapes once served as a summer retreat for British officials. Munnar’s highlights include Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and scenic trekking trails, along with the sparkling Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak (the highest point in South India), Kundala Lake, sprawling tea gardens, and stretches of rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years. The next full bloom is expected in 2030.
Alleppey (Alappuzha): Venice of the East
Alleppey is widely known for its tranquil backwaters, a web of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes best experienced aboard a traditional kettuvallam houseboat. Floating gently past coconut groves, green paddy fields, vibrant village life, and churches, an Alleppey houseboat cruise is the quintessential Kerala experience. The town is also home to the historical Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, St. Mary Forane Church, the scenic Alappuzha Beach, and the iconic lighthouse. Ayurvedic resorts in Alleppey offer rejuvenating therapies, making it ideal for both spiritual and physical renewal.
Kovalam: The Crescent Beach Paradise
Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach destination, just 13 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram. Once a sleepy fishing village, Kovalam now sees travellers from all over the world. It boasts three crescent beaches; Lighthouse, Hawah (Eve’s Beach), and Samudra. Each of the beaches is distinct in charm with Samudra being the most serenading. The centrepiece is the Vizhinjam Lighthouse, where panoramic views of the Arabian Sea await. Water sports such as swimming, parasailing, and surfing, bustling beachside cafes, and Ayurvedic wellness resorts make Kovalam a perfect blend of activity and leisure. By the evening, the beach becomes a paradise for sea food lovers as you get to devour the fresh catches from the same morning. Experience cultural richness with attractions such as Halcyon Castle and the impressive Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary nearby.
Varkala Beach: Where Cliffs Meet the Sea
Varkala Beach (Papanasham Beach) is unique for its cliffs that dramatically exist against the expanse of the Arabian Sea. These cliffs are a geological wonder and a popular vantage for sunset views. The area offers adventure activities like paragliding and surfing, as well as peaceful strolls along cliffside promenades. Just steps away lies the Janardana Swami Temple, an ancient spiritual hub, and the tranquil Sivagiri Mutt. The beach is also a space for sacred rituals such as Karkidaka Vavu Bali (remembering and honouring deceased ancestors).
No Kerala journey is complete without savouring places like Kochi, where colonial heritage, spicy markets, and buzzing art scenes delight; Wayanad housing lush forests, waterfalls, wildlife, and spice plantations; and Kumarakom, a paradise for birdwatchers and serenity-seekers.
Activities You Can’t Miss in Kerala
- Houseboat cruising in Alleppey’s backwaters for pure relaxation and a peek into local life.
- Hiking and trekking among Munnar’s tea gardens and high-altitude national parks.
- Surfing at Varkala, kayaking and parasailing at Kovalam, or simply lazing on the sun-warmed sands.
- Wildlife safaris in Periyar and Wayanad, where elephant and bird sightings delight nature lovers.
- Shopping at Kochi’s spice markets and local handicraft stores for spices, tea, homemade chocolates, essential oils, and coir products.
Therapy, Healing & Wellness
Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, India’s ancient holistic wellness science. Here, therapy is more than a spa treatment; it’s a full mind-body-soul reset. Authentic wellness centres across Kerala offer personalised treatments such as Abhyanga (herbal oil massage), Panchakarma (five-stage detox), Shirodhara (oil stream therapy), and Udwarthanam (herbal powder scrub), designed afier careful assessment by Ayurvedic doctors. Yoga and meditation retreats thrive, framed by lush greenery, fostering genuine healing and introspection. Naturopathy and advanced sports rehabilitation centres also provide world-class preventive and restorative care, seamlessly blending tradition with modern comfort.
Folk Art, Dance, and Martial Mastery
Culture pulses through Kerala in myriad forms:
- Kalaripayattu: Ofien considered the oldest form of martial arts in India, Kalaripayattu is practiced and performed at dedicated academies where visitors can observe or even try basic moves.
- Theyyam: A stunning ritual dance, marked by elaborate costumes and makeup, that transforms performers into living deities. Witnessed mainly in North Kerala temples, Theyyam’s mystical energy draws crowds year afier year.
- Thiruvathira: Performed by women, this poetic dance captures the legend of Shiva and Parvati and is typically showcased during Onam festivities.
- Kathakali: With its brightly painted faces, stylized gestures, and elaborate costumes, Kathakali showcases epics like the Ramayana with dramatic flair.
- Pulikali: The “Tiger Dance” fills streets during Onam as performers, painted like tigers, frolic to drumming and cheers.
- Chavittukali: An enthusiastic group dance staged during temple festivals, known for its rhythmic clapping and footwork.
Getting There and Local Transport
Kerala is accessible via major airports in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode. Trains run from most major cities, while road networks are excellent for buses, taxis, and private cars. Once in Kerala, auto-rickshaws, local buses, rental bikes, and even ferries make getting around easy, especially between the coast, hills, and backwaters.
Quick Tip: Kerala explored by road feels most beautiful, especially when you visit Munnar. Also, the best time to visit Kerala is from October to March as the temperatures are favourable for exploring the places on-foot or on a bike. Be careful of the Elephant passing signs on the hills and hairpin bends.
Where to Stay in Kerala
Kerala’s hospitality scene is as versatile as its geography. In Munnar, colonial-era cottages and luxury resorts offer breathtaking vistas, while in Alleppey, houseboats and riverside lodges immerse you in the cozy stillness of the backwaters. Beachfront villas, boutique hotels, and Ayurvedic spa resorts abound near Kovalam and Varkala, providing quick access to both the sea and local temples. Cities like Kochi and Trivandrum present modern hotels amid thriving marketplaces and heritage districts.
Flavours of Kerala: What to Eat
Eating in Kerala is a delight, thanks to its spices, freshness, and diversity. Must-try dishes include:
- Sadhya: A vegetarian feast of rice, curries, pickles, and payasam, served on a banana leaf, golden especially during Onam.
- Kerala Fish Curry: Tangy, spicy gravies featuring local fish and coconut, a staple along the coast.
- Appam with Stew: Sofi hoppers paired with aromatic vegetable or chicken stew.
- Puttu and Kadala: Steamed rice cakes with black chickpea curry, a beloved breakfast.
- Toddy: A sweet-sour palm wine, best sampled at a local toddy shop.
- Snacks: Don’t miss banana chips, spicy fritters, and freshly made seafood specialties at beach shacks.
- Payasam and Unniyappam: Make for heavenly endings to any meal.
To Conclude
Kerala casts a spell with its rich green landscape, age-old arts, soulful healing, and exhilarating adventures. From the misty peaks of Munnar to the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, from the spiritual sands of Varkala Beach to the sun-bathed shores of Kovalam, every journey is a story and every meal a celebration. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty or longing for healing, Kerala, the true God’s Own Country, stands ready to welcome you with open arms and countless wonders.