Located in southwestern India, Kerala attracts visitors with its breathtaking beauty, a tapestry woven with rich cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes, for those looking for a great trip in 2024, green hills, quiet backwaters, and stunning beaches offer a symphony of experiences. Deeply anchored in the traditions of Kerala land, the essence of the character emerges as you travel through this fascinating space.
Our guide the top 10 places to visit in Kerala in 2024 ensures an unforgettable experience with an array of beauty. Each location has been carefully selected to offer a distinct blend of cultural experience and natural beauty. From the mist-shrouded hills of Munnar to the sunny beaches of Kovalam, Kerala unfolds like a bright canvas waiting to be explored by the keen tourist. Immerse yourself in a cultural fabric where old traditions meet modern charm.
This carefully curated selection encourages you to embark on a journey through the timeless beauty of Kerala, offering an experience that will last long after your journey is over.
Here’s Your List of Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala
Munnar: Tea Gardens and Beyond
Located in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a paradise for nature lovers and road lovers. Lush tea gardens form a magnificent backdrop and entice visitors to explore the green slopes. Munnarand’s appeal is enhanced by its rankings on popular travel networks which makes it a great tour destination in Kerala. Muthuvan tribes’ traditions permeate the local culture through lively dances and cultural ceremonies.
Tourists can learn about the region and its history and the art of tea making at the Tea Museum. Adventurers can take exciting tours to discover secret waterfalls and stunning landscapes. A visit to Attukali Falls or Eravikulam National Park offers a peaceful escape, ensuring that Munnar the charm goes beyond the breathtaking views.
Alleppey
Alleppey is known as the “Venice of the East”. Known as the ‘Venice of the East’, Alleppey attracts millennials. Wanderlust with its amazing landscapes and colorful culture is at the top position in the list of top 10 places to visit in Kerala. Located on the Arabian Sea, Alleppey is known for its tranquil backwaters, stunning beaches, and rich tapestry of local traditions.
Immerse yourself in the original culture of Alleppey, where ancient traditions meet current trends. From old colonial ruins to lively boat races and cultural festivals, the city is a melting pot of many influences. Alleppey’s bustling marketplaces and busy streets reflect the lively nature of the local population.
Main Attractions: Alleppey Beach, a popular beach destination, invites young visitors to relax on its golden sands. The Alappuzha Lighthouse not only offers great views but also a glimpse of the city and its historical charm. Join the exciting energy of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, an annual spectacle that combines tradition and competition. Immerse yourself in the intensity of this cultural festival by enjoying the epic snake boat races at Punnamada Lake which ranks among the top 10 tourist attractions in Kerala.
Kochi
A coastal jewel, Kochi seamlessly blends history, tradition, and modernity, making it an exciting destination for 20–35-year-olds. Kochi is full of historical attractions like the famous Kochi Fort, Mattancherry Palace, and picturesque Chinese fishing nets making it one of the best places to visit in Kerala.
A cultural patchwork influenced by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods seeps through its streets, offering a unique glimpse into the past. Enjoy cultural immersion as you attend a performance of Kathakali, a traditional dance genre that brings ancient legends to life. Explore the Jewish town where you will find an unusual mix of antique shops, spice markets, and the famous Parada Synagogue.
Kochiand’s nightlife is active for those looking for a fusion of history and modernity, and seaside cafes provide the perfect environment to unwind. The original food, influenced by numerous civilizations, is a culinary adventure.
Thekkady
Located in the Western Ghats, Thekkady is an exciting place known for its abundant wildlife and aromatic spice trails. Thekkady is a paradise for eco-enthusiasts between the ages of 20-35 and offers a unique blend of biodiversity and cultural richness. Indigenous peoples preserve ancient customs that reflect the harmony between man and nature making it one of the great tourist attractions in Kerala.
Experience exciting activities like boat safaris in Periyar National Park, frequented by elephants, tigers, and unusual birds. Spice plantation tours immerse guests in the region’s heritage and dynamic agriculture, taking them on an aromatic journey through cardamom, pepper, and clove farms. This immersive experience in Thekkady invokes the adventurous spirit while instilling respect for the region and its natural and cultural richness.
The Wayanad
Located in the Western Ghats, Wayanad attracts visitors with its stunning scenery and vibrant local culture is 4th on the list of the top 10 places to visit in Kerala. The archaeological wonder of Edakkal Caves displays ancient rock art that fascinates history buffs. At the heart of local culture, Wayanad welcomes tribal communities and offers a rare glimpse into their rituals and traditions.
Engaging activities include trekking at Chembra Peak, camping at Banasura Sagar Dam, and touring the magnificent tea estates. Wayanad is a great destination for the modern tourist looking for an all-inclusive holiday that perfectly combines nature, history, and cultural immersion.
Kovalam
Located on the southwest coast of India, Kovalam delights with its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach offer both sun relaxation and various water activities in nature making it among the top 10 tourist attractions in Kerala. Immerse yourself in local culture by watching traditional dance performances such as Kathakali or enjoying Ayurvedic spa treatments on the beach.
Surfing and windsurfing are popular water sports for thrill-seekers, while seaside cafes offer the perfect balance between tranquillity and exciting nightlife. Kovalam is a vibrant mix of youthful energy, sunny beaches, and cultural life.
See The 10 Best Hotel Deals in Kovalam (Feb 2024) – Tripadvisor
Varkala
Varkala, nestled amid the cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, is a wonderful getaway for adventurous individuals. This coastal paradise mixes natural beauty with vibrant local culture in a seamless manner. Varkala’s cliffs provide stunning views and a one-of-a-kind backdrop for anyone interested in culture. The Janardanaswamy Temple embodies the local culture firmly anchored in spirituality making it a great tour destination in Kerala. This hallowed site not only has historical significance but also serves as a starting point for spiritual seekers. Hence, is ideal for people looking for spiritual places to visit in Kerala.
Varkala seamlessly integrates tradition and contemporary, making it an excellent location for those seeking both peace and adventure. The Papanasam Beach welcomes energetic and wellness-minded tourists with seaside yoga classes and rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments. Varkala’s cliffside cafes and dynamic nightlife cater to the tastes of the young and free-spirited, making it a popular tourist destination.
Kumarakom
Situated on the tranquil shores of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. This beautiful resort fascinates visitors with its green landscape and is famous for its Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Vacationers between the ages of 20 and 35 must include Kumarkom in their list of places to visit in Kerala if they’re looking for a combination of relaxation and adventure
Immerse yourself in the local culture by tasting traditional Kerala cuisine on a houseboat cruise, a must-experience that combines nature and gastronomy. Bird watching at the sanctuary, a hotspot for live migratory birds, makes Kumarakom a unique and memorable visit for the young and the young at heart.
Thrissur
Often referred to as the cultural center of Kerala, Thrissur fascinates visitors with its blend of vibrant history and modernity. The centuries old Vadakkunnathan Temple is a tribute to the city and its rich heritage making it among the best places to visit in Kerala. A grand celebration called Thrissur Pooram is held here which showcases the region and its exuberant culture with traditional music, elephants, and fireworks.
Amidst this cultural extravaganza, Athirappilly Falls offers a wonderful natural respite. Thrissur caters to a wide age group and offers a unique experience to people looking for a combination of heritage and excitement. Immerse yourself in the cultural enchantment of Kerala.
Kozhikode
How can we miss out on Kozhikode while talking of the best places to visit in Kerala? Kozhikode, popularly known as Calicut, is a fascinating destination for tourists aged 20-35 looking for a wonderful blend of history, nature, and gastronomic delights. The city’s rich history is revealed in attractions such as Kappadi Beach, where Vasco da Gama first set foot in India. Discover the historical charm of Beypore, famous for its historic shipbuilding skills, and experience the flowing splendor of Suchharagiri Falls.
Discover a vibrant spice market that echoes the ancient tradition of spice trading and immerse yourself in the local culture. Kozhikode is a cultural hotspot as it has a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. Don’t miss the chance to see the city and its ancient art forms and ceremonies.
Check for The 10 best hotels & places to stay in Kozhikode, India – Kozhikode hotels (booking.com)
To wrap up, the list of the top 10 places to visit in Kerala in 2024 promises a unique set of experiences that go beyond traditional tourist destinations. From the misty plateaus of Munnar to the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, each place unfolds its chapter of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Learn about vibrant customs, taste local cuisine, and take part in activities ranging from daring hikes to relaxing houseboat tours.
Kerala is more than just a destination; it is an invitation to discover a versatile and exciting place where a new side of the beauty of nature opens at every step. Let the warmth of Kerala hospitality and the authenticity of its experiences create lasting memories as you embark on this adventure.
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