Things to Do in Kerala: A Complete Travel Guide to God’s Own Country
Kerala, often referred to as God’s Own Country, is one of India’s most enchanting travel destinations. With its palm-lined beaches, misty hills, serene backwaters, and rich cultural heritage, this offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural escape, there are countless things to do in Kerala that will leave you awestruck.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Kerala, highlight the famous tourist places in Kerala, and help you plan your journey through the best locations in Kerala.
1. Cruise the Backwaters of Alleppey
A houseboat ride through the backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha) is perhaps the most iconic activity in Kerala. Imagine gliding over serene canals surrounded by coconut trees, lush paddy fields, and quaint villages. It’s not just a scenic experience—it’s a peek into Kerala’s traditional lifestyle.
- What to do in Kerala? Start with a houseboat day cruise or an overnight stay.
- What is special in Kerala? The intricate network of backwaters, especially in Alleppey and Kumarakom, is unique to this state.
- Activities to do in Kerala: Boating, birdwatching, enjoying traditional meals on board. Explanation is given below:
1.Boating in the Kerala Backwaters
Boating is not just a leisure activity—it’s a journey into the heart of the state’s natural and cultural life. The most popular way to do this is aboard a houseboat, locally known as a kettuvallam. These boats were traditionally used to transport rice and spices, but today they’ve been transformed into comfortable floating cottages. This is the best things to do in kerala.
2. Birdwatching in Wetland Sanctuaries
Kerala is home to a variety of birds, especially in areas like the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and the Pathiramanal Island. The wetlands and backwaters create the perfect ecosystem for both resident and migratory birds. These are the best tourist places in kerala.
3. Enjoying Traditional Kerala Meals Onboard
One of the highlights of a backwater cruise is the onboard dining experience. Most houseboats come with a personal chef who prepares authentic Kerala meals using fresh local ingredients.
2. Witness the Beauty of Munnar’s Tea Gardens
Munnar is a dream for nature lovers. Located in the Western Ghats, this hill station is famous for its endless tea plantations, mist-covered valleys, and cool climate. It’s one of the best places to visit in Kerala for couples, families, and solo travelers.
- Visit the Tea Museum, hike to the Top Station, or enjoy a scenic drive through Mattupetty Dam.
- Don’t miss a visit to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
3. Relax at the Beaches of Varkala and Kovalam
Kerala offers some of the scenic beach experiences in India. Varkala Beach, set against dramatic red cliffs, is perfect for peaceful sunsets, yoga sessions, and Ayurvedic massages. Just south of Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam Beach is known for its crescent-shaped shores, shallow waters ideal for swimming, and beachside cafés. Whether you’re sunbathing, surfing, or enjoying a fresh coconut under the palm trees, these beaches provide the perfect escape in Kerala’s natural beauty.
- Kovalam Beach: Ideal for sunbathing, surfing, and Ayurvedic massages.
- Varkala Cliff Beach: Known for its dramatic cliffs, cafes, and spiritual vibe.
Whether you’re a beach bum or someone seeking rejuvenation, spending time at these beaches is one of the top activities to do in Kerala.
4. Explore Fort Kochi’s Colonial Charm
Fort Kochi is a captivating blend of history, art, and coastal charm. Wander through streets lined with Portuguese and Dutch-era buildings, visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets, and explore colonial landmarks like St. Francis Church and the Dutch Palace. The area is also known for its art scene, quaint cafés, and the annual Kochi-Muziris Biennale. Fort Kochi offers a perfect mix of culture and relaxation, making it a must-visit among Kerala’s tourist destinations. This is one of the best tourists place in kerala.
- Visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India.
- Explore the Jewish Synagogue and Dutch Palace.
- Witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets during sunset.
Fort Kochi is not only one of the Kerala famous places, but also a cultural hotspot for art and food lovers.
5. Discover the Wilderness of Wayanad
It means exploring the natural beauty, forests, wildlife, and peaceful landscapes of Wayanad in Kerala. It invites you to enjoy adventures like trekking, spotting animals in the wild, visiting waterfalls, exploring ancient caves, and experiencing the local tribal culture—away from city life and deep into nature. For the nature lover this is the best location in kerala for nature lovers and travellers.
- Trek to Chembra Peak and see the heart-shaped lake.
- Explore Edakkal Caves with ancient carvings.
- Visit Banasura Sagar Dam, one of the largest earth dams in India.
This region stands out among travel destinations in Kerala for its offbeat and adventurous experiences.
6. Attend a Kathakali or Theyyam Performance
Kerala’s cultural scene is as rich as its landscapes. Don’t miss a chance to watch a Kathakali dance—a classical performance involving elaborate makeup, costumes, and expressive storytelling. Alternatively, witness Theyyam, a ritual dance form performed in northern Kerala.
- What is special in Kerala? Its deep-rooted performing arts traditions.
- These performances are often held in cultural centers in Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kannur.
7. Take an Ayurvedic Spa Retreat
It means relaxing and healing your body and mind using traditional Ayurvedic therapies. These retreats offer massages, herbal treatments, yoga, and healthy food to help you feel refreshed, reduce stress, and improve overall wellness in a peaceful, natural setting. Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. Numerous wellness resorts and spas across the state offer rejuvenating therapies and detox programs.
- Best location in Kerala for Ayurveda: Kovalam, Kumarakom, and Palakkad.
- Enjoy treatments like Panchakarma, Abhyanga, and Shirodhara.
This is one of the best things to do in Kerala if you’re looking to unwind and restore your health.
8. Spot Wildlife at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Thekkady, Periyar is one of the most well-maintained wildlife sanctuaries in India. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is famous for spotting elephants, tigers, deer, and many bird species. Visitors often take boat safaris on Periyar Lake or guided walks to see wildlife in their natural forest habitat. It’s a great place to experience rich biodiversity and scenic nature.
- Go on a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, sambar deer, and exotic birds.
- Take a guided jungle trek or a bamboo rafting tour.
Nature lovers will find this one of the most rewarding places to see in Kerala.
9. Marvel at the Athirappilly Waterfalls
Often referred to as the Niagara Falls of India, Athirappilly is the largest waterfall in Kerala. Surrounded by dense forests, it offers a breathtaking view, especially during the monsoon.
- Combine your trip with a visit to Vazhachal Falls nearby.
- It’s also a popular spot for film shoots and photography.
This dramatic landscape is one of the most famous tourist places in Kerala.
10. Visit the Sacred Temples and Churches
Kerala is home to numerous temples, churches, and mosques that reflect its religious diversity.
- Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is one of the richest temples in the world.
- Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi and Santa Cruz Basilica highlight Kerala’s multicultural fabric.
- Guruvayur Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
For spiritual seekers, exploring these religious sites is among the most meaningful things to do in Kerala.
11. Try Kerala’s Authentic Cuisine
The food is a delightful mix of spices, coconut, seafood, and vegetarian delights.
- Try sadya (traditional feast), appam with stew, Kerala parotta, and Karimeen pollichathu.
- For dessert, don’t miss payasam.
Food lovers will quickly understand what is special in Kerala—its vibrant, flavorful cuisine.
12. Go Boating in Kumarakom
While Alleppey is the backwater capital, Kumarakom offers a more tranquil and less touristy alternative.
- Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers.
- Enjoy a sunset cruise on Vembanad Lake.
It’s a must-add to your list of tourist places in Kerala, especially for nature lovers.
13. Explore the Silent Valley National Park
Located in the Nilgiri Hills, Silent Valley is one of India’s least disturbed rainforests. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers rare flora and fauna.
- Great for eco-tourists and adventure travelers.
- Entry is controlled, making it a truly exclusive experience.
Silent Valley is ideal if you’re looking for offbeat travel destinations in Kerala.
14. Watch a Snake Boat Race
If you’re visiting between July and September, you can witness the spectacular Vallam Kali or snake boat races.
- Most famous: Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alleppey.
- Local communities train for months, and the atmosphere is electric.
This is one of the best things to do in Kerala to experience local culture and community spirit.
15. Camp and Hike in Vagamon
Vagamon is an underrated hill station known for its pine forests, meadows, and cool breeze.
- Activities include paragliding, camping, and hiking.
- Ideal for couples and groups looking for a quiet retreat.
It’s a hidden gem among the best places to visit in Kerala.
Top tourist places in Kerala you shouldn’t miss
- Alleppey (Backwaters)
- Munnar (Tea Plantations)
- Wayanad (Nature & Wildlife)
- Kochi (Culture & History)
- Thekkady (Wildlife Sanctuary)
- Varkala & Kovalam (Beaches)
- Athirappilly Falls
- Kumarakom (Bird Sanctuary & Backwaters)
- Vagamon (Adventure & Peace)
- Trivandrum (Temples & Palaces)
Each of these is a best location in Kerala, offering something unique.
Conclusion:
From floating on tranquil backwaters to trekking in misty hills, from cultural experiences to wildlife adventures, Kerala offers a vast range of attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few weeks, there are endless things to do in Kerala.
For more information or to book custom Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary tour packages, contact us today and let us help you plan your perfect wildlife adventure.
FAQs
Q1. What is special in Kerala?
A. The combination of scenic beauty, backwaters, hill stations, culture, Ayurveda, and cuisine make Kerala truly unique.
Q2. What to do in Kerala for a week?
A. Spend time in Alleppey (backwaters), Munnar (hills), Kochi (culture), and Kovalam (beach) for a well-rounded trip.
Q3. Which are the best places to visit in Kerala for couples?
A. Munnar, Varkala, Kumarakom, and Wayanad are ideal romantic getaways.
Q4. Are there adventure activities to do in Kerala?
A. Yes! Trekking in Wayanad, paragliding in Vagamon, bamboo rafting in Thekkady, and camping in the Western Ghats.