They don’t call it “God’s Own Country” for nothing. Kerala is a symphony of experiences, a narrow strip of land where misty mountains, vibrant cultures, and serene backwaters converge. For a first-time traveler, planning a trip can be overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
As Kerala specialists, we’ve crafted thousands of trips. Here are the 5 essential places to visit in Kerala that offer the perfect introduction to its magic.
1. Munnar: The Emerald Sea of Tea
If you’ve seen a photo of Kerala, it was probably of Munnar. This is the heart of Kerala’s hill country, a breathtaking landscape of rolling hills carpeted in endless Munnar tea plantations.
- Why Visit: The cool climate is a refreshing escape. You can visit the Tea Museum to see how your morning brew is made, spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park, and take in the stunning views from Top Station or Mattupetty Dam.
- Best For: Honeymooners, nature lovers, and photographers.
2. Alleppey (Alappuzha): The Backwater Paradise
No trip to Kerala is complete without experiencing its world-famous backwaters. Alleppey houseboats are the iconic way to do it.
- Why Visit: Imagine gliding silently on a traditional Kettuvallam (houseboat) through a labyrinth of canals, lagoons, and lakes. You’ll pass by floating villages, lush paddy fields, and witness local life unfolding on the banks. An overnight houseboat cruise is an unforgettable experience.
- Best For: Everyone. This is the quintessential Kerala experience.
3. Thekkady (Kumily): Wildlife and Spice
For those who want a touch of the wild, Thekkady is your destination. It’s home to the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Why Visit: The main attraction is the Periyar boat safari, where you can cruise the lake and spot herds of wild elephants, bison, deer, and countless birds. The surrounding town of Kumily is also the heart of Kerala’s spice trade. A spice plantation tour to see how cardamom, pepper, and vanilla grow is a must-do.
- Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and families.
4. Fort Kochi (Cochin): Where History and Art Collide
Kochi is the vibrant, multicultural gateway to Kerala. While Ernakulam is its modern city, the soul of Kochi lies in the historic Fort Kochi district.
- Why Visit: It’s a living museum. You can watch the fishermen operate the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets at sunset, wander through Jew Town and its antique shops, visit the 16th-century Paradesi Synagogue, and explore the colonial-era Dutch Palace and St. Francis Church. It’s a paradise for history buffs and art lovers, filled with quaint cafes and galleries.
- Best For: History buffs, art lovers, and foodies.
5. Varkala or Kovalam: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
Your Kerala trip needs a beach escape, and the southern coast offers the best.
- Why Visit: Varkala is unique in Kerala for its dramatic cliffs that border the Arabian Sea, offering stunning views and a bohemian vibe. Kovalam, near the capital, is famous for its three crescent-shaped beaches and the iconic lighthouse. Both are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and experiencing Kerala’s world-renowned Ayurvedic treatments.
- Best For: Beach lovers, wellness seekers, and a relaxing end to your trip.
Ready to Experience Kerala?
From the cool hills of Munnar to the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, Kerala offers a world of memories. Planning the perfect route to connect all these destinations can be tricky.
That’s where we come in.
At OneClick Vacations, we specialize in creating bespoke Kerala tour packages that are seamless, authentic, and perfectly paced. Don’t just visit Kerala—experience it.
Contact us today to get a free, no-obligation quote for your dream Kerala itinerary!
