Why Kerala Remains a Must-Visit Destination
Kerala isn’t just a place on the map — it feels more like a mood, or even a rhythm. Whether you’re drawn by its misty green hills or palm-lined canals, this south Indian state continues to attract travelers with its powerful mix of natural beauty, calm backwaters, rich spice history, and coastal tranquility.
Nicknamed “God’s Own Country,” Kerala offers landscapes you won’t find anywhere else in India. But with so many spots worth seeing, how do you pick where to start?
Here’s a round-up of the top 5 places in Kerala that offer the best mix of scenery, culture, and peace of mind. No hype — just places people keep going back to.
1. Munnar — The Land of Tea and Mist
Located in the Idukki district, Munnar is Kerala’s most loved hill station. The area is covered with endless tea plantations and winding roads that make you want to pause and breathe it all in.
- Altitude: About 1,600 meters above sea level
- Main attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, Mattupetty Dam
- Best time to visit: September to April
If you love the cool air and scenic drives, Munnar’s where you want to be. Hike through Anamudi, South India’s highest peak, or sip fresh tea right from the estate. It’s quiet, green, and slightly surreal — in a good way.
What Locals Say
“It’s like waking up inside a painting,” said a local guide in Chinnakanal. And honestly, you’ll probably agree.
2. Alleppey — The Backwater Escape
Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is the face of Kerala’s famous backwaters. Imagine drifting on a wooden houseboat, surrounded by coconut trees and slow-moving canals. It might sound like a scene from a storybook, but this is real — and very relaxing.
- Must-try: Overnight houseboat stay
- Other highlights: Kumarakom bird sanctuary, Marari Beach
Locals often call it the “Venice of the East,” but honestly, Alleppey is better than that. Why? Because the silence is natural and the waters don’t smell of city life. If you like to float while time slows down — this is where you head.
Pro Tip for Visitors
Book your houseboat during the monsoon if you truly want to see Mother Nature in full mood swing. Yes, you’ll get wet — but it’s beautifully worth it.
3. Wayanad — Forests, Waterfalls & Peace
In Kerala’s northern hills, Wayanad is like the state’s peaceful cousin. It doesn’t scream for attention, but it quietly surprises you — like the kind of place you casually visit and then keep thinking about for years.
- Main sights: Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Meenmutty Waterfalls
- Popular with: Trekking lovers, staycation seekers
Don’t miss the prehistoric carvings in the Edakkal caves — seriously, they’ve been around for 6,000 years. Also, Wayanad’s treehouses let you sleep above the forest, not just near it.
And the drive? Yeah, it’ll make you want to stop just to look every five minutes.
4. Thekkady — Spice Gardens and Elephants
Thekkady is where Kerala shows off its wild side. Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this forested area lets you spot elephants, birds, and — if you’re lucky — tigers.
- Top things to do: Jungle safari, spice plantation tour
- Don’t miss: Bamboo rafting on Periyar Lake
Everything smells like pepper and cardamom here, which sort of adds a cozy touch to every walk. Thekkady is also one of those places where eco-tourism actually feels real — not forced.
Traveler Feedback
One tourist we met at Kumily said, “I came for the spices but stayed for the silence.” That stuck with us. Should probably go see what they meant.
5. Varkala — The Cliffside Beach Town
If Kovalam was yesterday’s beach, Varkala is today’s. Set against steep red cliffs, this small beach town feels younger, more laid back, and — let’s admit it — slightly cooler.
- Main beach: Papanasam Beach
- Activities: Surfing, yoga, cliff-side cafes
The view from the cliff is unbeatable — watching the sun slide into the Arabian Sea from a rooftop cafe is almost too perfect. And then there’s the Varkala temple, where tradition and tourism seem to exist side-by-side without issue.
If you just want sun, sea, good food, and fewer crowds — Varkala’s your best bet right now.
Tips Before You Go
- October to March is the ideal travel period.
- Monsoon (June to September) paints everything green but can slow travel.
- Pack light cotton clothing, but bring a sweater for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.
Why These Places Still Matter
Every year, lists like these appear. Yet Munnar, Alleppey, Wayanad, Thekkady, and Varkala don’t fade. That says something, right?
Kerala doesn’t try too hard — it just stays beautiful. The food’s honest. The people? Warm but not performative. And the air… somehow cleaner. Maybe you should just go see it for yourself.
