🌿 Kerala

God's Own Country

Nestled in the southwestern tip of India, Kerala is a land where the Western Ghats meet the Arabian Sea, creating a stunning mix of hill stations, beaches, and backwaters. The state is often called "God’s Own Country" due to its lush greenery, tranquil landscapes, ancient temples, and spiritual energy. From misty mountains and cascading waterfalls to vibrant festivals and Ayurvedic healing, Kerala offers an unmatched diversity. Its literacy, hygiene, and hospitality standards are among the best in India, making it a favorite among international tourists seeking safe, clean, and soul-stirring travel experiences. Whether you're cruising a houseboat, watching elephants in the wild, or sipping tea in the hills, Kerala promises a journey of serenity and discovery.

✨Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala | Explore Munnar, Alleppey, Varkala & More

Plan your perfect Kerala tour with this guide to the best destinations – from Munnar’s hills and Thekkady’s jungles to Alleppey’s houseboats and Varkala’s beaches.

🌄 1. Munnar – Kerala’s Hill Station Retreat

Munnar is Kerala’s prized hill station, known for its rolling tea estates, misty mountains, and tranquil vibes. The cool weather and panoramic landscapes make it a honeymoon favorite. The town blends colonial charm with local culture. Nature lovers can hike through Eravikulam National Park, spot Nilgiri Tahr, and sip fresh-brewed tea. Waterfalls like Attukad and Lakkam offer scenic stops. Boating at Mattupetty Dam and shopping for spices round out the experience.

What to Expect:

🌿 Endless tea plantations
🐐 Nilgiri Tahr spotting
🚣 Boating at Mattupetty Dam
📸 Scenic waterfalls
🌄 Panoramic sunrise at Top Station
🏛️ Tea Museum tour
☕ Fresh tea tasting

🌿 2. Thekkady – Wildlife & Spice Trails

Thekkady brings you face-to-face with nature at Periyar Tiger Reserve. Set amidst fragrant spice hills, it’s ideal for jungle treks, bamboo rafting, and wildlife safaris. Watch elephants bathe, or cruise along Periyar Lake surrounded by untouched forest. Spice plantation walks and local cooking demos offer cultural insight. With cool weather and eco-resorts, Thekkady is both adventurous and serene.

What to Expect:

🐘 Elephant sightings
🛶 Bamboo rafting experience
🌿 Spice plantation tour
🦅 Wildlife boat cruise
🍲 Kerala cuisine demo
🌳 Jungle treks
🛏️ Forest-side eco stays

🛶 3. Alleppey – Backwaters & Houseboat Heaven

Alleppey’s backwaters offer a magical blend of water, coconut groves, and village life. Spend a night in a private houseboat with onboard meals and serene views. The canals stretch for miles, ideal for kayaking or canoe rides. The rhythm of Alleppey is slow and soul-soothing. You can witness daily life unfold from your floating villa.

What to Expect:

🚢 Overnight houseboat cruise
🛶 Canoe village tours
🌾 Paddy field views
🍛 Onboard traditional meals
🌅 Sunset on the lake
🎭 Local life experiences
📍 Snake boat race (seasonal)

🏖️ 4. Varkala – Cliffside Beach Escape

Varkala is a hidden coastal gem with towering red cliffs beside turquoise waters. Unlike typical beaches, here you can walk the cliff trail lined with cafés and yoga centers. The sacred Papanasam Beach is a site for both sunbathing and spiritual cleansing. Varkala is also an Ayurvedic retreat hub and a shopping paradise.

What to Expect:

🌊 Cliff-top beach views
🛍️ Local market shopping
🧘 Yoga and healing centers
🕉️ Janardhana Swamy Temple
🍽️ Seaview cafés
🏄 Water sports options
🌅 Breathtaking sunsets

🌆 5. Fort Kochi – Where Heritage Meets Art

A charming colonial town, Fort Kochi is perfect for slow-paced exploration. Walk past Chinese fishing nets, Portuguese churches, and Dutch-era buildings. The area is also full of art galleries, bookstores, and heritage cafés. It's the cultural gateway to Kerala and hosts the world-famous Kochi-Muziris Biennale.

What to Expect:

🐟 Chinese fishing nets
🏰 Dutch Palace visit
✝️ St. Francis Church
🎭 Kathakali & dance shows
🎨 Art galleries & murals
☕ Colonial-era cafés
📖 Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town

🌇 6. Trivandrum – Culture & Coastline

Kerala’s capital, Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), is a vibrant blend of spirituality and modern charm. Visit the famed Padmanabhaswamy Temple and relax on nearby beaches like Kovalam. The city has museums, palaces, and zoological parks. It’s also a major entry/exit point for Kerala trips.

What to Expect:

🛕 Padmanabhaswamy Temple
🏖️ Kovalam & Shanghumugham beaches
🏛️ Napier Museum
🐯 Trivandrum Zoo
🏰 Royal palace visits
📸 City photo walks
✈️ Airport convenience

convenience

🚣 7. Kumarakom – Lakefront Luxury

Kumarakom is a quiet, upscale alternative to Alleppey. Set beside Vembanad Lake, it offers luxury backwater resorts, authentic Kerala cuisine, and houseboat experiences. It’s also home to a famous bird sanctuary, ideal for nature enthusiasts. Ayurveda, birdwatching, and calm waters make Kumarakom serene.

What to Expect:

🛶 Houseboat & canoe rides
🐦 Bird sanctuary visits
🧖♀️ Ayurvedic spa retreats
🌴 Lakefront resort stays
🍽️ Authentic Kerala dining
📷 Sunset photography
🚤 Motorboat excursions

🏞️ 8. Wayanad – Wild & Wonderful

Wayanad is where nature, adventure, and heritage come together. Trek through misty trails, explore Edakkal Caves with Stone Age carvings, and stay in eco-lodges or treehouses. With coffee estates, waterfalls, and tribal culture, Wayanad is a lush green heaven for offbeat explorers.

What to Expect:

🧗♂️ Chembra Peak trek
🌳 Edakkal Cave carvings
☕ Coffee & spice estates
💦 Meenmutty & Soochipara Falls
🛖 Treehouse stays
🏞️ Bamboo rafting at Kuruva Island
🐒 Wildlife encounters

💦 9. Athirapally – Majestic Falls

Kerala’s most iconic waterfall, Athirapally drops dramatically through dense rainforest. It’s a great stop for nature photography and jungle picnics. The falls become thunderous during monsoon. A trek to the base gives the best views, while Vazhachal Falls nearby adds to the scenic charm.

What to Expect:

💧 Athirapally Waterfall views
🥾 Trekking trails
📸 Instagram-worthy nature shots
🌲 Tropical forest walk
🐦 Birdwatching opportunities
🎥 Film shooting location
🌿 Picnic spots

🏖️ 10. Kovalam – Beachside Bliss

Kovalam is all about sun, sand, and surf. Its crescent-shaped beaches are perfect for swimming and water sports. The Lighthouse Beach is postcard-worthy. You’ll find Ayurvedic retreats, seafood cafés, and local bazaars nearby. Just 30 minutes from Trivandrum Airport, it’s an easy beach getaway.

What to Expect:

🏖️ Golden sand beaches
🗼 Lighthouse viewpoint
🏄 Water sports & surfing
🧖 Authentic Ayurveda centers
🍤 Seafood cafés
🛍️ Coastal handicrafts
🌇 Sunset strolls

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“India always calls me back and this time, Kerala welcomed us like an old friend. My wife and I enjoyed every bit of the slow, peaceful journey. The tea gardens, the amazing houeboat, the kind people... it was just what we needed in our retirement years. Maroon Holidays planned it all with such care no rush, no fuss, just ease and beauty. A trip to remember.”

Idris Elamin

Muscat, Oman

“Still daydreaming about our 5 days in Kerala! Misty hills, lazy houseboat cruises, and zero stress, thanks to Maroon Tours! They took care of everything so we could just show up and soak in the magic. Total win!”

Olivia Wilson

Toronto, Canada

★ ★ ★ ★

"Kerala was stunning, no question about that. The stay were lovely, the houseboat was heavenly, and the itinerary seemed nicely paced. That being said… I did think it was a tad overpriced for what was offered. I was hoping for just a little more refinement, particularly on the niceties. But the staff was responsive, and we created some gorgeous memories..worth it!"

Pallavi Mehra

Hyderabad, India

"The pace was just right for a family trip, with thoughtful stops, beautiful stays, and safe travel throughout. My daughters loved the wildlife, houseboat cruise, and nature walks. Highly recommended to any family looking for a well-paced, personalized vacation!"

Marc Dubois

Paris, France

“Our 12 days in Kerala were an absolute joy! From bustling spice markets to peaceful houseboat, every moment was packed with wonder and laughter. My wife and I loved exploring the culture, nature, and amazing food. Big thanks to Maroon Holidays for making everything smooth and fun we’re already dreaming about our next adventure!”

Hans Müller

Zurich, Switzerland

“We have very happy time in Kerala with Maroon Tours. The trip for 12 days was very nice and good for family. We see many beautiful places and feel calm and peace. The hotels and food was good. Our son love jeep safari and animals very much! Thank you for making easy and good plan for us. We remember this trip always with smile.”

Anna Ivanova

Moscow, Russia

“As someone who barely finds time to breathe, planning a honeymoon felt impossible. We booked at the very last minute and I still can’t believe how perfectly it all came together. From Alleppey houseboat to the beach resort, and We even got to visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Highly recommend, especially if you're juggling a hectic schedule like me!”

Rhea Menon

Bangalore, India

“After 18 years in Australia, coming back to Kerala for our 25th anniversary felt like reconnecting with our roots in the most meaningful way. We wanted our kids to not just hear about Kerala but feel it. Maroon Holidays curated the perfect vacation, calm houseboat nights, thrilling off-road jeep safaris, serene kayaking, and even a visit to a tiger reserve that left us speechless. A seamless, soulful trip and a beautiful tribute to Kerala.”

Rajiv Nair

Sydney, Australia

“I usually don’t trust online travel people easily. But Maroon Holidays gave me confidence from day one. They shared everything clearly. The hotels were nice, food was simple and good, and the houseboat stay was something we’ll never forget. My kids loved the pool and nature walks. It was a peaceful and happy trip. Thank you for taking care of us.”

Vishal Patil

Maharashtra, India

“I must say, I approached this trip with rather measured expectations, after all, I’ve seen my fair share of five-star experiences across the globe. But Kerala, through the lens of Maroon Holidays, was something quite remarkable. The arrangements were impeccable Private transfers, elegant accommodations, even the elephant ride tour, all perfectly curated. Quite frankly, it exceeded my expectations. A splendid affair, truly. Well done.”

John Ashford

London, UK

“I was quite nervous planning this trip for my father’s 65th birthday and wanted everything to be perfect and smooth. Thankfully, Maroon Holidays took all the stress off my shoulders. The slow-paced vacation was exactly what Dad needed, peaceful mornings in Munnar, slow jeep safari, calm evenings on the houseboat, and gentle nature walks. My wife and kids loved it too, and Dad felt truly special. Big thanks to the team for handling all details, so I could just relax and enjoy with my family.”

Arjun Kumar

Chennai, India

“My colleague from office, she recommend me Maroon Holidays, she say, ‘Sabine, you must go!’ And really, from airport pick-up to the last day, everything was very well taken care of. My children, they enjoy so much! But for me, the nature trail walk. it was the most beautiful. So calm, so green, I feel very connected to nature. Stay were nice, people were friendly… we feel safe and relaxed the whole time. Thank you, Maroon team, we will remember this always.”

Sabine Keller

Berlin, Germany

"We celebrated my daughter Kiara’s 3rd birthday with both sets of parents on a 10-day trip through Kerala’s hills and Varkala beach. Everything was smooth, scenic, and well-managed. The team was prompt, thoughtful, and gave us exactly the family comfort we needed. Truly memorable!”

Ritika Sharma

New Delhi, India