30 Top Kerala Tourist Attractions

Kerala is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse tourist attractions. The backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom, characterized by tranquil canals and houseboat cruises, are a major draw. Munnar offers breathtaking tea plantations and scenic landscapes, while Wayanad boasts lush green forests and wildlife sanctuaries. The historical city of Kochi, with its colonial charm and Chinese fishing nets, is another popular destination.

Alappuzha (Alleppey)

Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alappuzha is famous for its backwaters, houseboat cruises, and serene canals. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and scenic experience.

Bekal Fort

Located in Kasaragod district, Bekal Fort is one of the largest and well-preserved forts in Kerala. It offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is a favored spot for history enthusiasts.

Guruvayur

Guruvayur is a pilgrimage town known for the Guruvayur Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. It attracts thousands of devotees from all over the country.

Idukki

Idukki is a hill station nestled in the Western Ghats and is known for its beautiful landscapes, tea plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries. It is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers.

Kalpetta

Located in Wayanad district, Kalpetta is the district headquarters and serves as a gateway to explore the scenic beauty of Wayanad. It offers a pleasant climate, waterfalls, wildlife, and tea and coffee plantations.

Kannur City

Kannur is a coastal city known for its pristine beaches, traditional art forms, and historic forts. It is also famous for Theyyam, a vibrant ritual art form of Kerala.

Kasaragod

Kasaragod is the northernmost district of Kerala, known for its untouched beaches, historic forts, and cultural heritage. The Bekal Fort and the scenic beauty of the region attract tourists.

Kozhikode

Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a historically significant city renowned for its trade and cultural exchanges. It offers beautiful beaches, lush green countryside, and delicious local cuisine.

Kochi (Cochin)

Kochi is a major port city and commercial hub of Kerala. It blends modernity with historical charm, offering attractions like Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, colonial architecture, and a vibrant art scene.

Kovalam

Kovalam is a popular beach destination in Kerala known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets. It offers various water sports activities and beachside resorts.

Palakkad

Palakkad is known as the “Gateway of Kerala” due to its strategic location. It is famous for its historical monuments, temples, and lush green landscapes.

Kumarakom

Situated on the banks of Lake Vembanad, Kumarakom is a backwater destination known for its scenic beauty and houseboat cruises. It is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

Munnar

Munnar is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, misty mountains, and breathtaking views. It offers opportunities for trekking, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Ponmudi

Ponmudi is a hill station near Thiruvananthapuram known for its mist-covered valleys, lush green hills, and picturesque landscapes. It is a popular destination for trekking and nature walks.

Thalassery

Thalassery is a coastal town famous for its historical significance, colonial architecture, and aromatic cuisine. It is known for its cultural heritage and the unique Thalassery biryani.

Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta is a district in central Kerala known for its religious significance. It is home to the Sabarimala Temple, a prominent pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

Sabarimala

Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrimage center in the Western Ghats dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. It attracts millions of devotees during the annual pilgrimage season.

Silent Valley National Park

Situated in the Nilgiri Hills, Silent Valley National Park is a biodiversity hotspot and one of the last undisturbed rainforests in India. It is home to various rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

Thekkady

Thekkady is famous for the Periyar National Park, known for its wildlife, especially the Indian elephants. It offers activities like boat safaris, trekking, and spice plantation visits.

Thrissur

Thrissur, also known as the “Cultural Capital of Kerala,” is famous for its vibrant festivals, grand temples, and traditional art forms. The Thrissur Pooram festival is a major attraction.

Varkala

Varkala is a coastal town renowned for its stunning cliff-side beaches, mineral springs, and the 2,000-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple. It is a popular destination for beach lovers and spiritual seekers.

Wayanad

Wayanad is a scenic hill district known for its misty mountains, lush green forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and tribal culture. It offers opportunities for trekking, wildlife spotting, and exploring ancient caves.

Top Kerala beach attractions

Alappuzha beach

Alappuzha Beach, also known as Alleppey Beach, is a popular tourist destination located in Alappuzha district of Kerala. It offers a serene and picturesque setting with its golden sandy shores, palm trees, and beautiful backwaters. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the beach, indulge in beach sports and activities, or simply relax and soak up the scenic views. The beach is also known for its annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, where traditional snake boats compete against each other.

Cherai beach

Cherai Beach is a stunning beach located near Kochi in Kerala. It is known for its pristine beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and serene surroundings. The beach stretches over 10 kilometers and offers a perfect blend of calm backwaters and rolling waves of the Arabian Sea. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachside activities like beach volleyball and water sports. The beach is also famous for its Chinese fishing nets and delicious seafood.

Kovalam beach

Kovalam Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations in Kerala. Located in Thiruvananthapuram district, it is renowned for its crescent-shaped coastline, pristine waters, and scenic beauty. The beach is divided into three parts – the Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach. Kovalam Beach offers a range of water activities like swimming, surfing, parasailing, and catamaran rides. It also has numerous beachside shacks, restaurants, and resorts that cater to tourists.

Kozhikode beach

Kozhikode Beach, also known as Calicut Beach, is a scenic coastal stretch located in Kozhikode district of Kerala. It offers a serene environment with its golden sands, palm trees, and the enchanting Arabian Sea. The beach is an ideal spot for leisurely walks, sunset views, and enjoying local delicacies from the nearby street vendors. It also has several attractions nearby, including the iconic Kozhikode lighthouse and the historic Kappad Beach.

Muzhappilangad beach

Muzhappilangad Beach is a unique and picturesque beach located in Kannur district of Kerala. It is famous for being the longest drive-in beach in India, where visitors can drive their vehicles along the shore. The beach is known for its clean and shallow waters, making it suitable for swimming and other water sports. It also hosts the Muzhappilangad Beach Festival, showcasing cultural programs and adventure activities.

Thirumullavaram beach

Thiruvanmiyur Beach is a serene and less crowded beach situated in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. It offers a peaceful ambiance with its soft sands, gentle waves, and lush greenery. The beach is perfect for relaxation and solitude, away from the bustling tourist spots. Visitors can enjoy long walks, meditation, and capturing beautiful sunsets. The nearby Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is another popular attraction for tourists.

Varkala beach

Varkala Beach is a stunning cliff-side beach located in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. It is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, pristine sands, and crystal-clear waters. The beach is famous for its natural springs, believed to have medicinal properties. Visitors can relax on the beach, take a dip in the mineral-rich waters, or enjoy activities like parasailing and paragliding. The nearby Janardanaswamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt are also worth exploring.

Malappuram

Malappuram Beach is a tranquil and less explored beach situated in Malappuram district of Kerala. It offers a serene environment with its unspoiled shoreline, golden sands, and gentle waves. The beach is perfect for those seeking solitude and peaceful walks. Visitors can witness stunning sunsets, visit the nearby fishing harbor, or indulge in local delicacies at the nearby eateries. The beach also has a beautiful park, known as the Pandikkadavu Park, where one can relax and enjoy the surroundings.