If there is one Indian place that is capable of changing your mood from exhausted to excited in just a few hours, then it is definitely Kerala. I have been to this state three times in the last few years, and on each trip, I was reminded of the reason why Kerala is such a popular tourist destination. The whole scenario of mountaintops covered in mist, gradually merging into calm lakes and sandy shores, giving way to dense forest, is nothing but a dreamlike experience. Poovar Island, Kerala, is one such place to experience the highest level of experience.
Now, the question is what is it that makes the Kerala tourist spots so unique?
The answer is quite simple: they provide diversity. One minute, you are enjoying a hot cup of chai at the chilly Munnar hill station, and the very next minute, you are gliding over the backwaters of Alleppey in a tranquil atmosphere where time has come to a standstill. There are so many best places to visit in Kerala.
I will be highlighting the most interesting tourist places in Kerala, like Kovalam Beach, along with the details that most of the blogs tend to miss out on—the first-hand experience insights, local conversations, and surprising finds.
Top 15 Kerala Tourist Places You Must Visit
1. Alleppey Backwaters
It wouldn’t be wrong to assume that you are familiar with the pictures of houseboats in Alleppey; however, I can assure you that nothing else will really get you ready for the tranquility of those waters at sunrise. Absolutely no sounds of horns, no hustle and bustle… only the gentle sound of water movements. Alleppey helps in growing Kerala tourism.
The Venice of the East: a web of canals coexisting with each other, floating markets, shops selling toddy, and vast areas of green all around.
Experience This: A pre-dawn cruise on a houseboat and a visit to Kainakary village for a taste of tapioca with fish curry. Opt for Thiruvananthapuram attractions and Kozhikode tourist places.
2. Kochi
Kochi is the place where I always feel as if I have traveled back in time. Like me, you can explore various places there, such as Vagamon hill station, Ashtamudi Lake, Guruvayur Temple, or Kasargod tourist places.
Historical Highlights: Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue.
The reason why tourism in Kochi is gaining popularity is because of art cafés, indie galleries, the culture of Biennale, and the boating routes that the locals secretly like better than the tourist ones.
3. Thekkady
Thekkady is the wild heart of Kerala. This is one of the top tourist places in Kerala. Visiting the Thekkady wildlife sanctuary is on the bucket list for most tourists.
Wildlife Experience: I spotted a herd of elephants bathing in Periyar Lake—you can see them from a boat!
Periyar Sanctuary Tip: Get the bamboo rafting program; it comes with forest trekking and tribal guides.
4. Kumarakom
A quieter but still just as magical version of Alleppey.
Nature Highlights: migratory birds, lotus-filled canals, and eco-stays that run on solar power.
Tips to Follow: Go to the bird sanctuary at 6 AM—the sounds are like nature’s orchestra.
5. Thrissur
Thrissur is known for Pooram, but its coast is underrated.
Beaches: My favorite is Snehatheeram Beach—clean, gentle waves, and few people around.
Culture: Vadakkunnathan Temple and Kerala Kalamandalam give Thrissur’s heritage more depth.
6. Poovar Island
One of the most mystical Kerala tourist spots where the river, lake, sea, and beach unite.
What Makes it Special: The estuary at different times of the day turns different colors.
Do Not Miss: The golden-sand boat ride—it is a favorite among couples, photographers, and so on.
7. Munnar
If there is one place I have to choose for a “life reset,” then it has to be Munnar.
Tea Paradise: rolling plantations, Kolukkumalai sunrise, and tea-tasting sessions with plantation workers.
Nature Trails: Atthoottu Falls, Top Station, and Lakkom Waterfalls for offbeat treks.
8. Kovalam
Kovalam’s coastline looks like a crescent moon—it is absolutely beautiful if seen from a height.
Top Beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.
Water Activities: snorkeling, surfing, and catamaran rides.
Sunset Advice: Go up the lighthouse; the panoramic view is really worth it.
9. Thiruvananthapuram
The capital city combines faith, history, and nature.
The Main Attraction: Padmanabhaswamy Temple—the architecture alone is enough reason to visit.
Culture trail: Napier Museum, Kuthira Malika, Zoo, and the underrated Shangumugham Beach.
10. Kozhikode
A city noted for its biryani, beaches, and the trade tales that have lasted for centuries.
Beaches: Kappad (site of Vasco da Gama’s landing) and the promenade of Kozhikode Beach.
Dishes: Halwa, banana chips, and seafood platters are the specialties of Kozhikode.
History: Lighthouse from the past, plus the old spice trade routes near SM Street.
11. Vagamon
This hill station can compare with Munnar, but it is more natural and less touristy.
Adventure: paragliding, off-roading, and hiking through pine forests.
Climate: It is cool even in summer, so it is ideal for relaxing weekends.
12. Ashtamudi
A tranquil backwater resort with a genuine atmosphere.
Houseboat Magic: and scenic village life—thanks to narrower canals.
Cultural Life: coir-making workshops and taking part in toddy tapping.
13. Guruvayur
It is one of the most sacred places in India.
Main Attraction: The Guruvayur Krishna Temple—also called the “Dwaraka of the South.”
Cultural Experience: Stand before the idols during morning pujas; the mantras are very uplifting.
14. Kasargod
Northern Kerala is like a separate world.
What to See and Do: Bekal Fort, pristine beaches, and backwaters that are still unaffected by commercial tourism.
Biodiversity: Mangroves, endangered birds, and Theyyam performances in villages.
15. Kannur
Kannur is wild, full of history, and an absolute paradise for photographers.
Drive-in Beach: Muzhappilangad—On the drive-in beach, you can park your car right on the shore and enjoy the beach.
Forts: St. Angelo Fort offers cliffside views that can compete with those of Goa.
Things to Do in Kerala
Elephant Rides in Munnar & Thekkady
Visit the plantations nice and early to see the elephants and avoid the crowds.
Houseboat Ride in Kerala Backwaters
Select the highest quality eco-friendly boats, as they will give you better food, privacy, and a much more peaceful route. You can also visit the Kumarakom tourist places.
Relaxing Ayurvedic Massage & Wellness Retreats
The Ayurvedic centers that claim authenticity in Kumarakom and Kovalam offer rejuvenation treatments that are considerably better than the ones provided by generic spas.
Conclusion
Kerala is not just a trip; it is a mood. It calms you down, astonishes you, and offers you countless choices. No matter if you like beaches, meadows, history, food, or tranquility, the best spots to see in Kerala assure you unforgettable experiences that stay with you long after you return to your home. All these places contribute to Kochi tourism.
Get a Kerala travel guide to explore less-visited places like Kannur attractions or take a Kerala houseboat ride, or get a Kerala Ayurvedic massage.
So indeed, Kerala must be your next holiday destination without a doubt.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Are there many tourist places in Kerala?
Ans: Yes, Kerala has more than 50 major tourist spots, and it will take you a long time to explore them all.
Q: Is Kerala ideal for Ayurvedic massage?
Ans: Definitely. Kerala is the place that offers the best quality Ayurvedic treatment and rejuvenation therapy in India.
Q: How long should I stay in Kerala?
Ans: A trip of 6-8 days will be just right to visit the most important areas comfortably.
Also Read: Bay of Wonders: Places to Visit in Chennai to Add Wings to Your Travel Spirit!
