Tourist Places must visit in Kerala - A Complete Travel Guide

Kerala, God's Own Country, is a treasure of emerald backwaters, misty hills, lush tea gardens, and golden beaches. While North Kerala offers cultural gems, South Kerala is where most travelers fall in love-with its perfect mix of nature, heritage, and wellness.

Here's a curated list of top South Kerala tourist places and famous nearby hotspots that you can easily cover on a single trip.

1. Kochi - The Queen of the Arabian Sea

Kochi (Cochin) is Kerala's vibrant coastal city where tradition meets modernity. From ancient spice markets to seaside cafés, Kochi perfectly introduces travelers to Kerala's charm.

Top Attractions in Kochi

• Fort Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets.
• Mattancherry Palace & Jewish Synagogue.
• Marine Drive & Bolgatty Island.
• Lulu Mall (large modern shopping complex).

Nearby Place to Visit - Cherai Beach: Just 25 km from the city, Cherai Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand perfect for sunset views and dolphin spotting.

2. Munnar - Tea Gardens & Misty Mountains

A paradise for nature lovers, Munnar is a hill station known for endless tea plantations, winding roads, and chilly weather.

Top Attractions in Munnar

• Eravikulam National Park (home to Nilgiri Tahr).
• Top Station (for panoramic views).
• Mattupetty Dam.
• Tea Museum & Blossom Park.

Nearby Place - Idukki: Located about 35 km away, Idukki is famous for its Idukki Arch Dam, Ramakkalmedu viewpoint, and lush forest reserves-ideal for eco-tourism and offbeat exploration.

Kerala's misty hills and emerald backwaters create a paradise where nature whispers its most beautiful secrets.

3. Thekkady - Spice Aroma & Wildlife Thrills

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Thekkady is Kerala's top wildlife destination. It's home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India's most beautiful forest reserves.

Top Attractions in Thekkady

• Periyar Lake Boat Safari.
• Elephant Junction.
• Spice Gardens & Plantations.
• Bamboo Rafting & Nature Walks.

Nearby Place - Gavi Eco-Tourism: About 40 km from Thekkady, Gavi is an untouched eco-tourism spot within Periyar Reserve, known for trekking, camping, and birdwatching.

4. Alleppey - The Venice of the East

Alleppey (Alappuzha) is synonymous with Kerala's iconic houseboat experience. Gliding through tranquil backwaters surrounded by coconut palms is pure magic.

Top Attractions in Alleppey

• Houseboat Cruise in Backwaters.
• Vembanad Lake.
• Alleppey Beach.
• Marari Beach (nearby).

Nearby Place - Kumarakom: Just 15 km away, Kumarakom is a serene backwater village famous for the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and luxury lake resorts.

5. Vagamon - The Hidden Paradise

A less-commercialized hill station, Vagamon offers tranquil meadows, pine forests, and rolling green hills. It's ideal for those seeking peace away from crowds.

Top Attractions in Vagamon

• Vagamon Pine Forest.
• Thangal Para & Kurisumala.
• Vagamon Meadows & Waterfalls.
• Paragliding Point.

Nearby Place - Parunthumpara Viewpoint: Only 30 minutes away, Parunthumpara (Eagle Rock) offers stunning valley views and sunrise scenes-perfect for photographers.

6. Varkala - Cliffs by the Sea

Varkala is Kerala's only beach where cliffs meet the sea-creating postcard-perfect views. It's a favorite among solo travelers, backpackers, and beach lovers.

Top Attractions in Varkala

• Varkala Cliff Beach (Papanasam Beach).
• Janardanaswamy Temple.
• Varkala Lighthouse.
• Ayurvedic Spas & Cafés.

Nearby Place - Munroe Island: Around 80 km away, Munroe Island near Kollam is a tranquil backwater destination famous for canal cruises and village life experiences.

7. Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) - Heritage & Serenity

Kerala's capital, Trivandrum, blends tradition with modern culture. From majestic temples to serene beaches, it's an essential stop before heading to the southern tip.

Top Attractions in Trivandrum

• Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
• Kovalam Beach.
• Napier Museum & Zoo.
• Veli Tourist Village.

Nearby Place - Poovar Island: Just 30 km from the city, Poovar is a stunning estuary where the river, lake, and sea meet. A perfect place for a floating resort experience.

8. Southern Tip - Kanyakumari (Bonus)

Although located just across the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, Kanyakumari is often included in South Kerala itineraries. It's the southernmost point of India, where you can witness sunrise and sunset over three seas.

Top Attractions in Kanyakumari

• Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
• Thiruvalluvar Statue.
• Sunset Point.
• Kanyakumari Beach.

From misty mountains to tranquil backwaters, South Kerala offers a perfect blend of nature, heritage, and wellness that stays with you forever.

Additional Bonus Spots

If you have extra days, add these hidden gems to your South Kerala itinerary:

• Jatayu Earth's Center (Jatayupara): Large functional bird sculpture and adventure park near Kollam.
• Marari Beach: A serene and clean beach near Alleppey, perfect for peaceful stays.
• Athirappilly Waterfalls: Known as the Niagara of India, near Kochi.
• Pathanamthitta: Gateway to Sabarimala, with forest drives and river valleys.

Conclusion

Whether you're craving misty mountains, calm backwaters, or breezy beaches - South Kerala has it all. Plan your South Kerala tour with BuzzinTrips to secure tailored itineraries and curated local stays.