Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” is one of India’s most enchanting travel destinations. With its lush green landscapes, tranquil backwaters, exotic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Kerala offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo backpacking trip, this comprehensive Kerala travel guide will help you explore the best of this tropical paradise.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
✔️ Best time to visit Kerala
✔️ Top destinations & hidden gems
✔️ Must-try experiences (backwaters, Ayurveda, wildlife safaris)
✔️ Transportation & accommodation tips
✔️ Budget-friendly & luxury travel options
—
Why Visit Kerala?
1. Diverse Natural Beauty
From misty hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad) to golden beaches (Kovalam, Varkala) and serene backwaters (Alleppey, Kumarakom), Kerala’s landscapes are breathtaking.
2. Rich Culture & Traditions
Witness Kathakali dance performances
Explore ancient temples, churches, and synagogues
Visit spice markets in Fort Kochi
3. Ayurveda & Wellness Tourism
Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, offering:
✔️ Rejuvenating spa therapies
✔️ Yoga and meditation retreats
✔️ Detox programs in luxury resorts
4. Wildlife & Adventure
Periyar Tiger Reserve (Thekkady)
Eravikulam National Park (Munnar)
Bamboo rafting & trekking in Wayanad
5. Delicious Cuisine
Don’t miss:
🍽️ Sadya (traditional feast on banana leaf)
🍽️ Appam with stew
🍽️ Kerala seafood delicacies
—
Best Time to Visit Kerala
SeasonMonthsBest ForWeatherWinterNov-FebSightseeing, beaches, backwatersPleasant (22°C - 32°C)SummerMar-MayHill stations, wildlifeHot & humid (25°C - 37°C)MonsoonJun-OctAyurveda, lush greeneryHeavy rainfall
Ideal Time: October to March (perfect for sightseeing & outdoor activities).
—
Top Places to Visit in Kerala
1. Munnar – The Tea Paradise
Why Visit?
Best Time: September to March
2. Alleppey – Backwater Capital
Why Visit?
Houseboat cruises on Vembanad Lake
Canoe rides through narrow canals
Traditional Kerala meals on banana leaves
Best Time: October to February
3. Kochi – The Cultural Hub
Why Visit?
Best Time: November to February
4. Wayanad – The Wild Escape
Why Visit?
Best Time: October to May
5. Thekkady – Wildlife & Spices
Why Visit?
Best Time: October to June
—
Must-Do Experiences in Kerala
1. Stay in a Houseboat in Alleppey
✔️ Luxury houseboats with private decks
✔️ Sunset views over backwaters
✔️ Freshly cooked Kerala meals onboard
2. Try an Ayurvedic Spa Retreat
✔️ Rejuvenating massages & therapies
✔️ Yoga & meditation sessions
✔️ Detox programs in Kumarakom & Varkala
3. Explore Wildlife in Thekkady & Wayanad
✔️ Boat safari in Periyar Lake
✔️ Night jungle treks
✔️ Birdwatching in Kumarakom
4. Trek to Kerala’s Best Waterfalls
✔️ Athirappilly Falls (Kerala’s Niagara)
✔️ Meenmutty Falls (Wayanad)
✔️ Soochipara Falls (Three-tiered waterfall)
5. Taste Authentic Kerala Cuisine
✔️ Sadya (feast with 20+ dishes)
✔️ Karimeen Pollichathu (spiced fish fry)
✔️ Puttu & Kadala (steamed rice cake with curry)
—
How to Reach Kerala?
By Air
✈️ Major airports: Kochi (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), Calicut (CCJ)
✈️ International flights from Dubai, Singapore, etc.
By Train
🚂 Major railway stations: Ernakulam, Trivandrum, Kozhikode
🚂 Popular trains: Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi
By Road
🚗 Well-connected via NH66 & NH544
🚗 Self-drive options from Bangalore, Chennai
—
Where to Stay in Kerala?
DestinationBudget StaysMid-RangeLuxury ResortsMunnarTea Valley HomestayFragrant Nature MunnarWindermere EstateAlleppeyPaddy Fields HomestayLemon Tree Vembanad LakeTaj Lake PalaceKochiForte KochiBrunton BoatyardGrand HyattWayanadGreenex FarmsVythiri Village ResortThe Raviz Kadavu
—
Kerala Travel Tips
✔️ Book houseboats & resorts in advance (peak season gets crowded)
✔️ Carry light cotton clothes & rain gear (if visiting in monsoon)
✔️ Try local transport (auto-rickshaws, buses, ferries)
✔️ Respect local customs (modest clothing in temples)
—
Final Thoughts
Kerala is a dream destination that offers something for every traveler. Whether you want a relaxing backwater cruise, an adventurous trek, or a rejuvenating Ayurveda retreat, Kerala has it all.
Ready to explore God’s Own Country? Use this Kerala travel guide to plan your perfect trip!