The southern state of Kerala beckons with its breathtaking natural beauty, featuring stunning beaches, picturesque ranges, and lush green landscapes. In 2023, New York Times (NYT) had ranked it 13th in a list of 52 places to go to. God's Own Country was the only state from India to find a place in the ranking, which featured global hotspots such as London, and Morioka, Japan. It's no surprise as Kerala is a magical destination that appeals to nature enthusiasts, families, honeymooners, and adventure seekers alike. With its lush landscapes and water bodies, it is also one of the most preferred tourist destinations during the rains. Here are six places to visit in Kerala to witness the magic of India's monsoon season.
Located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is a stunning hill station renowned for its lush tea plantations and misty mountains, which take on a special beauty during the monsoon. The name "Munnar" comes from the Malayalam words "moonu" and "aru", which mean "three" and "river" respectively, referring to the confluence of the Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala rivers. Situated at about 1,600 metres, Munnar offers breathtaking landscapes with rolling hills blanketed in green tea gardens. The area is also rich in biodiversity and includes protected areas such as Eravikulam National Park, which is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Check here for our three-day itinerary to the place. And if you are on a budget, check here for a guide to the best hostels in the area.
Surrounded by forests that are home to a variety of wild animals, including elephants, leopards, and bisons, Athirappilly is a haven for bird watchers as it is the only place where all four south Indian hornbills can be spotted – the Grey Hornbill, the Malabar Pied Hornbill, the Malabar Grey Hornbill, and the Great Indian Hornbill. The biodiversity of Athirappilly is unique, with the Chalakudy river playing a significant role in the ecosystem. The river flows peacefully for the most part but rushes down the rocks at Athirappilly to create the spectacular white canopy of the waterfall. The Athirappilly Waterfall, standing at 24 metres high, is the largest in Kerala and is often referred to as the Niagara of India. The scenic drive to Athirappilly, winding through small hamlets and villages nestled in the lush green forests, is one of the most beautiful in Kerala.
Thekkady is a town located near the famous Periyar National Park in Kerala. It is known for its abundant wildlife, green surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere. The town attracts nature enthusiasts from around the world. Visitors can explore the wilderness of Periyar National Park, enjoy the aromatic spice plantations, and experience the rich cultural traditions of Kerala. Check here for our guide to Thekkady.
Kumarakom is located about 16 km from Kottayam and is set on the shore of Vembanad Lake. If you enjoy birdwatching and immersing yourself in nature, you can also take a stroll through the bird sanctuary. Experience the backwater charm of this place, renowned for hosting the illustrious Nehru Boat Race. Additionally, there are hiking trails, beaches, and waterfalls that further enhance the area's natural beauty.
If you want to enjoy all that Goa has to offer in a more peaceful environment, Varkala is the place to be. Located at the southern tip of Kerala, this coastal town offers a relaxed weekend getaway experience with charming cafes, lively shacks overlooking the stunning Arabian Sea, and yoga retreats. To top it off as a perfect holiday destination, Varkala also offers plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels, hotels, homestays, and bed and breakfasts. Check out our handy guide for help planning the perfect trip to this off-the-beaten-path location.
The charming town of Wayanad, nestled in the southern state of Kerala, presents an array of attractions including camping and trekking trails, enchanting waterfalls, captivating caves, bird-watching spots, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. It has evolved into a beloved destination for travellers, drawn to the spices, coffee, tea, bamboo products, honey, and herbal plants. Among the places to visit are the timeless Edakkal Caves for an amazing view of the surroundings and interesting rock carvings.