Hi everyone, I’m planning my very first trip to *Kerala*, often called “God’s Own Country,” and I want to make sure I don’t miss out on the best experiences. Since it’s my first visit, I’d love recommendations from fellow travelers and locals on the **must-visit places in Kerala for first-time visitors**. I’ve heard about Kerala’s **backwaters, houseboats, beaches, tea plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries**, but I’m not sure how to prioritize them within a 7–10 day itinerary. Some specific questions I have are: * Which **backwater destination** is better for a houseboat experience – *Alleppey or Kumarakom*? * Is *Munnar* worth visiting for tea gardens and waterfalls, or should I focus on *Wayanad* instead? * What are the **best beaches in Kerala** for first-time travelers – *Kovalam, Varkala, or Marari*? * Are there any **UNESCO heritage sites, cultural villages, or unique local experiences** I shouldn’t miss? * How many days should I ideally spend in each destination to get the real feel of Kerala? Also, since I’ll be traveling for the first time, I’d appreciate tips on the **best time to visit Kerala**, local food I must try, and whether I should hire a tour guide or explore on my own. Looking forward to hearing your suggestions, personal experiences, and sample itineraries that can help first-time visitors like me plan an unforgettable trip. Thanks in advance! 🙏

What are the must-visit places in Kerala for first-time visitors?

Admin

Hi everyone,

I’m planning my very first trip to Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” and I want to make sure I don’t miss out on the best experiences. Since it’s my first visit, I’d love recommendations from fellow travelers and locals on the must-visit places in Kerala for first-time visitors.

I’ve heard about Kerala’s backwaters, houseboats, beaches, tea plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries, but I’m not sure how to prioritize them within a 7–10 day itinerary. Some specific questions I have are:

Which backwater destination is better for a houseboat experience – Alleppey or Kumarakom?
Is Munnar worth visiting for tea gardens and waterfalls, or should I focus on Wayanad instead?
What are the best beaches in Kerala for first-time travelers – Kovalam, Varkala, or Marari?
Are there any UNESCO heritage sites, cultural villages, or unique local experiences I shouldn’t miss?
How many days should I ideally spend in each destination to get the real feel of Kerala?

Also, since I’ll be traveling for the first time, I’d appreciate tips on the best time to visit Kerala, local food I must try, and whether I should hire a tour guide or explore on my own.

Looking forward to hearing your suggestions, personal experiences, and sample itineraries that can help first-time visitors like me plan an unforgettable trip.

Thanks in advance! 🙏