Explore Kerala: Places to Visit, Things to Do & Travel Tips
Kerala is not just a place to trip. It’s a happy celebration of life. Feel green hills rotating into many coconut fields, gentle countryside reflect the pretty sunset, & the indigo-blue waves of the Arabian Sea touching soft sandy beach. The green peaks of the Western Ghats are tall, protecting perfumed valleys full with tea gardens that expand as distant as you can see.
The First Step to Kerala? Booking Your Flight from the USA Now!
Flying from USA to Kochi is simpler than you imagine! Take a look at the routes below and pick the one, your Kerala adventure is just a flight away!
Washington, Dc to Kochi
IAD – COK
14 Aug, 2026
Starting
$440
New York to Kochi
JFK – COK
24 Aug, 2026
Starting
$450
Los Angeles to Thiruvananthapuram
LAX – TRV
06 Aug, 2026
Starting
$532
Atlanta to Kochi
ATL – COK
26 Jul, 2026
Starting
$553
Chicago to Thiruvananthapuram
ORD – TRV
25 Aug, 2026
Starting
$581
Baltimore to Kochi
BWI – COK
11 Sep, 2026
Starting
$619
Kerala’s Top Cities & Attractions! Kerala’s charm lies in its mixture. You can locate cloudy hill stations, sunny beaches, generous frontier, wildlife sanctuaries, old temples, and lively cities. Each location has its own special history & natural beauty. Here’s a look at the essential destinations.
Kochi
Fort Kochi – In he fort kochi walk using colonial streets, watch the famous Chinese fishing nets, & relax in art cafes. Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) – This palace is famous for its beautiful murals that depict Hindu temple art & Kerala’s royal history. Jewish Synagogue – This Jewish Synagogue is the oldest holy place in the State, located in the heart of Jew Town. St. Francis Church – This church is also an ancient European church in India, where Vasco da Gama was buried. Kerala Folklore Museum – Kerala Folklore museum is a gem of traditional arts, crafts, & cultural exhibits.
Munnar
Tea Gardens – These endless green hills of tea plantations, where you can enjoy guided tours & tastings. Eravikulam National Park – This national park is a place in danger, the Nilgiri tahr & the rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every 12 years. Mattupetty Dam & Lake – The dam and lake is a scenic spot for boating & relaxing in cool mountain air. Echo Point – It is a natural echo marvel with pretty views. Anamudi Peak – This peak is the highest mountain in South India and is ideal for trekking.
Alleppey & Kumarakom
Houseboat Cruise – This houseboat floats on the water & you can spot colorful kingfishers, & watch daily village life. Vembanad Lake – This lake is Kerala’s largest lake & is popular with bird watchers & sunset lovers. Alleppey Beach – This beach has golden sand & a 19th-century pole and offers a peaceful coastal vibe. Pathiramanal Island – Pathiramanal Island is a small island & this is a sanctuary for migrant birds.
Wayanad
Edakkal Caves – These caves are old rock sculptures from the Neolithic era. Chembra Peak – Chembra peak is a popular trekking spot with a heart-shaped lake & a beautiful view. Banasura Sagar Dam – This dam is the largest earthen dam in India and set among hills. Soochipara Waterfalls – This is a three-tiered waterfall perfect for swimming and photography.
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Varkala
Varkala Beach and Cliff – These red rocks overlook the Arabian Sea. They provide a perfect view for sunsets. Janardana Swami Temple – This is an old pilgrimage site for Hindus. Sivagiri Mutt – This is a spiritual center founded by the reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
Kovalam
Lighthouse Beach – This lighthouse beach has Beautiful views & safe swimming waters. Hawa (Eve’s) Beach – This beach is the popular spot with both tourists & locals. Samudra Beach – The Samudra beach is quieter and perfect for a peaceful walk.
Palakkad
Palakkad Fort (Tipu’s Fort) – This fort is an 18th-century fort circled by gardens and a canal. Silent Valley National Park – This valley features a perfect rainforest with rare species & strong biodiversity. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary – Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, & a variety of birds. Ottapalam – This is a riverside town known for its festivals and scenic beauty. Meenvallam & Dhoni Waterfalls – These waterfalls are perfect for picnics & hiking. Vadakkanthara Temple – These Jainimedu Jain Temple, & Kanjirapuzha Dam show a mix of cultural & natural heritage.
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Min Duration: 5N/6D
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$280 OFF on 6+ Pax
Free dinner on one night
Valid for: 7-10 Pax
Min Duration: 5N/6D
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$495 OFF on 10+ Pax
Free half-day tour guide
Valid for: 11-15 Pax
Min Duration: 5N/6D
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Flat
$960 OFF on 15+ Pax
Soft drink & Free dinner on 1 night
Valid for: 15+ Pax
Min Duration: 5N/6D
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Photos Of Kerala
Other Notable Destinations
Bekal Fort & Beach (Kasaragod) – These Bekal Fort and Beach are well-known sea fort that provides great ocean views. The nearby beach is calm & perfect for relaxing. Kannur – It is famous for the unique Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach, where you can drive on the sand, the historic St. Angelo Fort, & the colorful Theyyam dance performances. Thrissur – This is known as Kerala’s cultural heart. It is famous for the ancient Vadakkunnathan Temple and the lively Thrissur Pooram festival, featuring elephants, music, and fireworks.Athirappilly Waterfalls (Thrissur) – This is the largest waterfall surrounded by green forests. It is a popular spot for picnics & movies. Munroe Island & Poovar – These calm backwater islands are home to peaceful villages, perfect for birdwatching & boat rides. Poovar has beautiful beaches where the backwaters meet the sea.
Kerala Weather & When to Visit?
Season Months Experience Winter Dec-Feb Cool, dry, best for outdoor activities Summer Mar-May Hotter, great for hill stations Monsoon Jun-sep Rainy, Greenery – Perfect for Ayurveda, Boat races. Post-Monsoon Oct-Nov Pleasant fewer crowds, tons of greenery
75 to 95°F (24 to 35°C) is the average temperature, it is lower in the hills.
Humidity is Light to high clothing should be standard, but for modesty & sun protection, pack long sleeves.
August to September (Onam) and January to March (Vishu, Theyyam, Pongala) are the best times for festival goers.
How To Reach?
International Airports – Kerala has three main international airports. Thiruvananthapuram is in the south, Kochi in the center & Kozhikode airport is in the north. All are well-connected to Indian cities.Local Transport – You can move by trains with beautiful views, buses are for budget travel, or private taxis & auto-rickshaws for ease. Houseboats – In places like Alleppey & Kumarakom a houseboat ride offers a relaxing way to explore while enjoying traditional Kerala food.Driving – The roads are beautiful but can be small & twisting. Hiring a local driver is the simplest & most relaxed option.
Famous Kerala Foods!
Dish Description Sadya Veg feast on banana leaf, 15+ dishes Kerala Fish Curry Tangy, spicy fish with coconut/tamarind Appam & Stew Rice Pancake with fragrant veg/Chicken stew Malabar Biryani Fragrant rice with spiced meat or chicken Puttu & Kadala Steamed rice-coconut cake with chickpeas Banana Chips Thin, crisp, salty snack Payasam Rich, sweet dessert made with milk, vermicelli or rice. Karimeen Pollichathu Pearl spot fish in banana leaf
Major Kerala Festivals!
Attukal Pongala – Held at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, this festival is known as the world’s largest women-only celebration. Millions of women gather to cook a sweet dish called PONGALA in earthen pots as an offering to the goddess.Thrissur Pooram – Thrissur Pooram is known as the mother of all poorams. This temple festival in Thrissur is famous for its grand processions of decorated elephants. It features melam drum performances & a beautiful firework show that lights up the night sky.Vishu – Vishu is the Malayalam New Year. On this festival, families wake up early to see the Vishu Kani, an amazing layout of flowers, fruits, rice, & gold items believed to bring good luck. The day is filled with family gatherings, festive meals, & sometimes fireworks in the evening.Onam – Kerala’s largest & most lively event is Onam. It welcomes the legendary King Mahabali’s arrival. At every doorway, the state rushes with floral carpets called pookalam. Grand Onasadya feasts is given on banana leaves, appealing to many. Magnificent snake boat races & traditional dance acts like Kathakali & Thiruvathira grace the roads & feature painted elephants.Theyyam – Theyyam is a traditional ritual performed in northern Kerala. It combines dance, drama, & worship. Performers wear detailed costumes, do face painting, & headgear. They transform into deities to bless devotees.
Local Myths & Legends!
According to legend Parashurama an soul of Lord Vishnu, created Kerala. He threw his axe into the Arabian Sea & the water decreased to show the land that is now Kerala.
The famous snake boat races is known as vallam kali have deep roots in ancient history. These long narrow boats were once used in naval battles between rival kingdoms. Today, the tradition continues as a competitive sport during festivals.
Many of Kerala’s temples, forts, rivers, & hills have interesting local stories. For example, some hills are thought to have been dropped by Hanuman while he was carrying the Sanjeevani herb. Certain temples are believed to be built where gods once walked. Talking to a local guide or village elder often reveals these hidden tale if you’re curious & want to know more about the land of Kerala.
Water Sports & Adventure Activities In Kerala!
Kayaking & Canoeing – Paddle through Kerala’s calm countryside & zigzag rivers. Explore hidden canals, greenery, & local village life closely.Houseboat Cruises – Enjoy a magical night or day trip on a traditional houseboat. Float over calm waters, watch birds & experience the charm of Kerala’s village.Surfing – Varkala and Kovalam both have great surfing spots for beginners and experienced surfers. Surf schools offer lessons & equipment on rentals.Scuba Diving & Snorkeling – Explore colorful coral cliffs & tropical fish in Kovalam’s clear waters. Certified instructors are available for beginners & adventure seekers.Paragliding – Fly over the hills of Vagamon. Enjoy beautiful views of valleys, tea gardens, and foggy views.Trekking & Rock Climbing – Trek through the lovely hills of Munnar, Wayanad, Chembra Peak, & Meesapulimala. You will pass by waterfalls, forests, & tea plantations. For thrill-seekers, rock climbing spots offer a challenging adventure.Wildlife Safaris – Visit Periyar, Wayanad, Silent Valley, or Parambikulam to spot elephants, deer, monkeys, rare birds, & maybe even a tiger all in their natural habitats.Mountain Biking – Ride on tracks of tea gardens, spice plantations, & small villages. It’s a great way to explore Kerala’s nature.Elephant Bathing & Feeding – In Thekkady & special ethical camps you can safely feed & help bathe elephants. Learn more about their gentle nature & conservation efforts.
Shopping in Kerala – Treasures to Take Home! Item Where to Buy Highlights Spices Fort Kochi, Thekkady Cardamom, pepper, cinnamon Handlooms (Kasavu sari) Kannur, Thrissur Gold-bordered saris, mundus Tea & Coffee Munnar, Wayanad Fresh from plantations Gold Jewelry Kochi, Thrissur Temple-inspired designs Coir, Coconut Crafts Alleppey, Kumarakom Eco-friendly, beautiful Kathakali Masks Kochi, local bazaars Iconic souvenirs Ayurvedic Oils Ayurveda shops Herbal products
Tip – Always bargain in markets! Fixed price in malls and branded shops.
Feel Refreshed with Kerala’s Ayurveda and Yoga!
Ayurvedic Massage & Treatments – Kerala is famous globally for its natural healing therapies. Many resorts provide special 7 or 14 day Ayurvedic packages that include massages, herbal treatments, & detox programs to refresh your body & mind.Yoga Retreats – You can find yoga classes & retreats in most beach towns like Varkala & Kovalam, as well as hill stations like Munnar. These retreats focus on relaxation, breathing exercises, & improving flexibility.Kalaripayattu – This is Kerala’s ancient martial art, known for its fast, flowing movements & self-defense techniques. Visitors can watch performances or even join beginner classes to try it themselves.Cooking Classes – Many places offer cooking lessons where you can learn to prepare authentic Kerala dishes like appam, fish curry, & payasam. This gives you a taste of local flavors to take home.
Explore Kerala’s Best Spots for Families and Kids!
Treehouse Stays – In places like Wayanad & Munnar you can stay in warm treehouses surrounded by nature. These stays are so much fun for kids & relaxing for adults. Treehouse will offer a unique way to connect with the forest & wildlife.Theme Parks – For the family fun you can visit Fantasy Park in Palakkad. The park has rides & activities for all ages or you can go to Wonderland near Kochi it’s a large amusement park with exciting rides water slides, & games.Butterfly Parks – The Malampuzha Butterfly Park in Palakkad is a magical place. Kids can see many colorful butterfly species in a very safe environment.Elephant Encounters – In Thekkady & Wayanad there are safe elephant camps. Families can watch elephants & can learn about their behaviours & sometimes you can even join feeding sessions also.Beaches for Families – Beaches like Kovalam, Varkala, & Cherai Beach near Kochi are so great for families. These beaches so so calm and have clean sands, & nearby facilities. They are safe & enjoyable for children as well. Nature Walks & Parks – Many places in Kerala have easy nature footpaths & parks that are enjoyable & safe for for your children. Examples can be Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary near Thiruvananthapuram & Vellayani Lake with its birdwatching spots.
Currency & Money Matters! The official currency in Kerala is the Indian Rupee (INR). Even if you must declare significant amounts to customs upon arrival you can bring any amount of foreign money into the nation. Currency exchange is easy & may be carried out at airports, big hotels, & authorized exchange offices.
Most of the shops, restaurants, & hotels in major cities & travel spots welcome international credit & debit cards. The smaller cities & rural areas often only accept cash while it is always a good idea to carry some cash for local marketplaces or far-off places, ATMs abound in cities and well-known tourist destinations.
Language & Communication! Kerala’s official language is Malayalam. English is commonly spoken in kerala especially in transportation areas, hotels, & tourist destinations. This makes travel simpler for international visitors.
Many residents also know Hindi & Tamil, therefore language challenges are rare. In big cities, cafes, hotels, airports, & public areas often have free Wi-Fi. With a valid passport and visa, you may get local SIM cards at mobile stores or airports for cheap mobile data.
Emergency Contacts & Travel Tips! Kerala has a straightforward emergency helpline system:
Police -100Ambulance / Fire – 101
You can save these numbers in your phone & note them down in your travel wallet for increased ease & safety. Get helpful travel applications downloaded before your trip. For city travel, use Uber, Ola or Google Maps for guidance & Google Translate for fast language help. Also, remember that some small towns may not have ride-sharing options. Be ready to travel by regional taxis or auto-rickshaws.
Travel Safety, Health, and Cultural Etiquette
Dress – Kerala is a conservative state so, it is advisable to dress modestly composed of light and breathable materials given the tropical weather. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or exposing clothing while visiting temples or religious locations. Swimsuits & tank suits should only be used on beaches or in swimming pools not in cities or in temples. Bring a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders if required.Public Behavior – Public presence Still typically tolerant but kerala will be polite to refrain from excessive displays of love in public spaces. Being polite & well-mannered toward local residents is to be advised.Temples – Temples Men(Poojaris) generally wear a dhoti or a long trousers and women wears a sarees or salwar suit. Many Kerala temples have strict dress codes. Some temples disallow non-Hindus so, it is advisable to verify before visiting.Health – Drink bottled or filtered water and avoid ice unless you’re sure it is made from safe water. Try street food carefully, only choose from restaurants that have a lot of local activity and seems clean. Keep your essential medical records with you and bring a little first-aid kit especially if you have allergies or stable illnesses.Transport – Always keep your valuables close to you when using public transportation or crowded venues like markets & festivals. Avoid carrying big quantities of cash instead use hotel lockers when possible. Wear helmets & adhere to local traffic regulations should you rent motorcycles or scooters.
Fun Facts About Kerala!
First 100% Literate State in India – Kerala has strong attention on education & social changes it became the first state in India to achieve 100% literacy.Highest Human Development Index in India – This shows its achievements in education, healthcare, & standard of living. Kerala tops all Indian states in the Human Development Index.World’s Largest Women’s Festival – The Attukal Pongala festival in Thiruvananthapuram draws millions of women who meet to cook a special offering. This makes the biggest ONLY WOMEN festival in the world.Unique Animal Species – Kerala is house to rare animals like the Nilgiri tahr (a mountain goat), the lion tailed macaque (an endangered monkey), & the king cobra, which is the world’s longest poisonous snake.Birthplace of Ayurveda & Kalaripayattu – Kerala is thought to be where Ayurveda the old Indian medicine, & Kalaripayattu this is one of the oldest martial arts in the world.Backwaters Cover Over 900 km – Over the 900 kilometers kerala’s famous lands are an large system of lakes, rivers, & canals supporting the biodiversity & traditional village life.Spice Capital of India – Kerala, often known as India’s spice garden, generates significant spices including black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, which were formerly much sought after by merchants all around.High Life Expectancy – Kerala’s good healthcare system and healthy lifestyle help it to have among India’s highest life expectancies.Unique Boat Races – The state hosts Exciting snake boat races, in which long boats with scores of paddlers compete across the landscape among large audiences & festivities, are held at festivals.
Local SIM Cards! It is wise to get a local SIM card the moment you land at any of Kerala’s airports to save on data costs and remain quickly connected. Affordable data and call packages offered by local SIM cards help you to easily utilize maps, maintain contact, and access information on the go.
Indian legislation requires that you show your passport and a passport-sized image for the SIM registration. Many airport kiosks offer fast activation, so you may begin using your phone immediately.
Tipping Guidelines! Although not always mandatory tipping is often valued in Kerala. The common practice in restaurants with table service is to tip 7 to 10% of the check if the service charge is not already included. Small gratuities indicate gratitude for excellent service & can inspire friendly contacts among taxi drivers, hotel employees, & tour guides.
Though tipping is not required in little businesses or street food stalls. It always helps to smile & thank everyone. Keep in mind that tipping protocol can differ slightly according on where you are hence observe what locals do or seek advice from your guide if in doubt.
Visa Information for US Travelers! US citizens need an e-Tourist visa which may be simply requested online using the official Indian government website. Usually the e-Visa is granted in a few days still to prevent last minute issues utilize at least a week before your travel.
Double or numerous entries are legal depending on your application with this visa which lets you stay in India for up to 60 days. Keep a copy of your visa acceptance close by as you will need it at immigration checkpoints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are houseboats in Kerala safe and comfortable for families?
A:
Yes most of the houseboats are well-kept & come furnished with bedrooms, bathrooms, & kitchens. They offer a unique & safe way to explore the backwaters, suitable for families & groups.
Q: How much does a 5 day Kerala trip cost?
A:
A budget trip can cost around ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 (INR) per person, while luxury trips may go above ₹50,000.
Q: What is the cheapest way to travel within Kerala?
A:
Local buses & trains are cheapest way to travel while renting a scooter or car gives more flexibility.
Q: Which wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala are most popular?
A:
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, & Parambikulam Tiger Reserve are among the top picks.’
Q: Which is the oldest temple in Kerala?
A:
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is believed to be thousands of years old.
Q: How did Kerala become a hub for the spice trade?
A:
Kerala became a hub because of Its location along the Malabar Coast & fertile soil made it a global spice hotspot for centuries.
Q: Are there any UNESCO heritage sites in Kerala?
A:
Yes, the Western Ghats in Kerala are part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Q: Can I use international credit/debit cards easily in Kerala?
A:
Credit & debit cards are everywhere accepted in major cities, hotels, & restaurants but in smaller towns, local markets, & rural areas, cash is favoured. It’s good to carry some Indian Rupees for small purchases.
Q: Is it necessary to hire a guide when visiting Kerala’s hill stations?
A:
While this is not always essential, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by sharing stories, guiding on safe trekking paths, & helping with local transport & language.
Q: What kind of clothing should I pack for Kerala’s hill stations and beaches?
A:
For hill stations like Munnar & Wayanad, pack light woolens or jackets for cooler evenings. For beaches & backwaters, light cotton clothes, sun hats, & swimwear are perfect.
Q: Are there any wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala suitable for children?
A:
Yes places like Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary offer guided tours & boat safaris that are educational & safe for children.
Q: How accessible are Kerala’s attractions for travelers with mobility issues?
A:
Some major tourist spots in cities & resorts are wheelchair accessible, but many natural & heritage sites may have uneven paths or stairs. It’s best to check in advance & arrange assistance if needed.
