Top 20 Places to Visit in Kerala in 2020

Fabulous Kerala is on every national and international tourist vacation calendar due to its incredible points of interest. With its beautiful beaches, dreamy backwaters, pristine hill stations, Kerala promises a perfect family vacation, a wildlife tour, beach vacation, and even honeymoon. If you’re making your 2020 holiday travel calendar, we suggest you add the places to visit in Kerala in 2020.

Top 20 Places to Visit in Kerala in 2020

1. Thiruvananthapuram

The state capital Trivandrum is in close proximity to one of the best places to visit in Kerala, such as Varkala and Kovalam, offering family vacationers a great beach vacation experience! In Trivandrum, the first thing you notice as an architecture lover is its beautiful architecture that is influenced by the British and Dravidian architectural style.

For spiritual people, it is essential to visit one of the richest temples in India, Padmanabhaswamy Temple. In the winter month of November or December, Thiruvananthapuram also becomes the host of the Kerala International Film Festival.

The best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram: November to February

What to see in Thiruvananthapuram?

• Beaches: Kovalam Beach, Varkala, Azhimala, Poovar, Vizhinjam, Shankumugham and Veli
• Historical and spiritual sites: Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Zoo, Trivandrum Golf Club Heritage Building, Kuthiramalika Palace and Kilimanoor Palace
• Museums: Kerala Science and Technology Museum, Priyadarsini Planetarium, Napier Museum, Kerala Soil Museum and Koyikkal Palace Museum
• Nature and wildlife sites: Agasthyamala, Kallar, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Braemore, Poovar Rainforests, Anchuthengu Backwaters, Ponmudi Hills, Varkala Cliffs, and Kappil-Edava Lakes.

Suggested to Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In December In India

What to do in Thiruvananthapuram?

• Attend the Kerala International Film Festival (winter)
• Get an Ayurvedic massage
• Enjoy a beach vacation
• Wildlife sighting at Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Adventure activities at AMAS Neyyatinkara
• Shopping in the Chalai market

2. Kozhikode

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Kozhikode, or Calicut, is another one of the best places to visit during a long and memorable family trip in Kerala. In addition to the beaches, Kozhikode attracts travelers with its rich history and delicious Malabar cuisine. For culture lovers, the city is the entry point for Thiryattam folk art.

In fact, in the winter months between January and March, you can also attend the annual Thirayattam Festival, one of the main tourism festivals in Kerala.

The best time to visit Kozhikode: November to February

What to see in Kozhikode?

• Beaches: Kozhikode Beach and Kappad Beach
• Museum and art gallery: Krishna Menon Museum & Art Gallery, Pazhassiraja Museum
• Temples: Gotheshwaram Beach Temple, Jain Derasar, Kizhakke Murikkunnu Bhagavathy Temple, Mishkal Masjidh, Narakath Bhagavathy Temple, Shiva Temple, Sri Kandeshwaram Temple, Thali Temple, Thrikaipetta Subramanya Temple
• Nature and wildlife sites: Mananchira Pond and Gardens and Biopark Sarovaram

What to do in Kozhikode?

• Attend Thiryattam Festival
• Water activities
• City walk
• Go up a Govindapuram hill
• Yoga and meditation

3. Kochi

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The cultural center of Kerala, Thrissur is still quite pleasant in terms of the weather in the winter season for a family vacation. If you can do it here, plan a trip around October to witness the Feast of St. Raphael, one of the most important events in Thrissur. In addition to the festival, the winter season is the best time to visit the Thrissur sightseeing tour, which is dotted with many ancient buildings and temples. You can also visit Thrissur in April or May to witness the famous Thrissur Pooram Festival.

Best time to visit Thrissur: October to March and April / May

What to see in Thrissur?

• Historical sites and museums: Appan Thampuran Smarakam, Archaeological and Art Museum, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum
• Waterfalls Athirappilly Falls, Vazhachal Falls
• Beaches: Snehatheeram, Thalikkulam; Chavakad Beach
• Religious sites: Basilica of Our Lady of Sorrows, Valiyalukkal Temple, Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes
• Other attractions Thrissur Zoo, Vilangan Kunnu, Kerala Kalamandalam, Peechi Dam, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary

What to do in Thrissur?

• Attend the San Rafael party (winter)
• Attend Thrissur Pooram (summer)

5. Ponmudi

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Another amazing place to visit in Kerala is the cherished hilltop destination, Ponmudi is ideal to be visited during winters for its enchanting sunrise, romantic sunset and warm sunny afternoon. This place is a hiker’s paradise with many trails around it. Ponmudi is also surrounded by a beautiful tea garden and is home to various birds. This hill station is an ideal honeymoon destination as well as being a great place for a family vacation.

The best time to visit Ponmudi: November to March

What to see in Ponmudi?

• Kallar river
• Meenmutty waterfalls
• Lion Safari & Deer Park
• Peppara wildlife sanctuary
• Golden Valley
• Agasthiya Biological Park
• Ponmudi Crest

What to do in Ponmudi?

• Trekking
• Ornithology
• Nature walks

6. Guruvayur

Kerala can also be a great place for a spiritual tour, and Guruvayur in the Thrissur district is the ideal place to go. Famous for its Hindu pilgrimage site, the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. This religious destination in Kerala is best visited during its 10-day festival in February / March and Guruvayur Ekadashi in November / December.

What to see in Guruvayur?

• Religious sites: Guruvayur Temple, Mammiyoor Temple, Chowalloor Siva Temple, Palayur Church
• Other attractions Elephant Camp Sanctuary, Guruvayur Devaswom Mural Painting Institute, Chavakkad Beach

What to do in Guruvayur?

• Pilgrimage
• Attend Guruvayur Ekadashi
• See elephants playing and being fed at Elephant Camp Sanctuary

7. Thalassery

Nicknamed the cultural capital of Malabar, Thalassery is a place with many novelties in various socio-cultural aspects. It is believed to be the first place where cricket was played in India, and the Thalassery Stadium today houses the Ranji Trophy, so this can be the best places to visit in Kerala for cricket lovers.

Aside from this, Thalassery is a great place for anyone with a sweet tooth, as the city has over 120 years of bakery product experience. Thalassery offers an interesting mix of culture and history, and should not be missed when traveling to Kerala.

The best time to visit Thalassery: October to March

What to see in Thalassery?

• Religious sites: Holy Rosary Church, Nettur Hill Church, Odathil Mosque, Shri Jagannath Temple, Thiruvangad Sree Ramaswami Temple, Saidhar Pally Masjid
• Other attractions Dharmadam Island, Gundert Bungalow, Overbury’s Folly, Thalassery Fort, Thalassery Pier, Muzhappilangad Beach

What to do in Thalassery?

• Drive along the Muzhappilangad beach
• Buy bakery products

The best honeymoon destinations in Kerala

8. Munnar

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We can all agree that the heart of Kerala is in Munnar; It is one of those destinations that give life and happiness to the state. In fact, a visit here during the winter season is even better if you enjoy the panoramic view from the narrow, clean streets that overlook the misty hills. The sprawling tea garden, rolling green mountains, and fresh air make it one of the best places to visit in Kerala. If you are planning a honeymoon in Kerala then you can choose Munnar.

The best time to visit Munnar: October to May

Places to Visit in Munnar?

• Waterfalls Atukkad waterfalls, Lakkam waterfalls, Naimakkadu waterfalls, Periyakanel waterfalls
• Wildlife sites: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai), Mathikettan National Park, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
• Points of view: Pothamedu View Point, Echo Munnar Point, Photo Point, Signal Point, Idly Hill View Point, Lockhart Gap View Point
• Tea Estates / Factory: Lockhart Tea Factory and Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
• Other attractions Blossom Park, Chithirapuram, Floriculture Center, Kundala Lake, Mattupetty Dam, Mattupetty Indo-Swiss Farm, Upper Station, Devikulam Sri Ayyappan Temple, Thangaiah Cave, Anayirangal Dam / Navigation Center, Tata Tea Museum, Kalvarimount, Church of Christ

What to do in Munnar?

• Boat tour
• Bike tour
• Trekking
• Rock climbing and abseiling
• Yoga

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9. Kumarakom

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With the quiet and pristine backwaters, Kumarakom is one of the best tourist spots for a Kerala. Sitting by Lake Vembanad and surrounded by high-end resorts often visited by international travelers, this tourist spot is perfect for a luxury vacation and honeymoon. In winter, Kumarakom becomes quite attractive to bird lovers as it becomes home to thousands of migratory birds.

The best time to visit Kumarakom: November to February

What to see in Kumarakom?

• Bird watching site: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Village tour: Aymanam, Kudamaloor, Kallara, Nattakom and Panachikkadu reservoirs, Thazhathangadi

What to do in Kumarakom?

• Floating house stay
• Sailing on Vembanad Lake
• Village tour

10. Alappuzha

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Alappuzha or Alleppey is about beautiful backwaters, palm trees and houseboats that force you to stay here a little longer. This is a perfect place for the family vacation experience as well as the honeymoon. You can plan your visit to Alappuzha in December, when the Mullackal Chirap Festival is celebrated; Attending is one of the best things to do.

The best time to visit Alappuzha: October to February

Places to Visit in Alleppey?

• Beach: Alleppey / Alappuzha Beach
• Hindu temples: Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Mannarasala Temple, Chettikulangara Devi Temple, Haripad Sree Subrahmanya Swamy Temple, Thakazhy Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, Mullakkal Temple, Padanilam Parabrahma Temple, Vetticode Sree Nagaraja Seamy Temple
• Churches Saint Andrew’s Basilica, Edathua Church, Alappuzha CSI Christ Church, Champakulam Valia Palli

Things to do in Alappuzha?

• Attend the Mullackal Chirap Festival
• Floating house stay
• Village tour
• Sailing in the backwaters

You can know more about Alleppey by clicking here.

11. Kollam

Offering a glimpse of Kerala’s beautiful backwaters, beaches, culture, and history, Kollam is a place where you can plan your honeymoon or romantic backwater vacation. A short distance from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam is famous mainly for its Ashtamudi Lake.

The most visited backwater and lake make it adventures places to visit in Kerala. However, that is not the only attraction in Kollam, you may want to visit this destination for Jatayupara, the place with the sculpture of the giant vulture along with its waterfalls, coasts, and temples.

The best time to visit Kollam: October to March

Places to Visit in Kollam?

• Beaches: Kollam, Thirumullavaram and Thangasseri
• Other attractions Ashtamudi Lake, Palaruvi Falls, Jatayupara, Alumkadavu, Munroe Island.

What to do in Kollam?

• Kettuvalam / Houseboat Stay and Ride on Lake Ashtamudi
• Boating on Munroe Island
• Purchases
• Paddlesport in Paravur
• ATV Rides and Bike Tour

The best destinations for wildlife lovers in Kerala

12. Thekkady- Observe exotic wildlife and enjoy bamboo rafting

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The amazing wooded land of Thekkady offers nature lovers the opportunity to explore Kerala’s rich flora and fauna. Even if you visit Thekkady during winters, you can find a green forest that invites you to have one of the best wildlife experiences in your own Periyar National Park, home to a variety of wild animals. Trying to go bamboo rafting here is one of the best things to do, are you ready?

The best time to visit Thekkady: All year

What to see in Thekkady?

• Wildlife site: Periyar National Park
• Other attractions Chellarkovil, Grampi, Mount, Pandikuzhi, Pattumala, Pullumadu, Mangala Devi Temple, Ramakalmedu, Spring Valley Mountain, Vandanmedu, Wagamon

What to do in Thekkady?

• Boat tour
• Wildlife safari
• Bamboo Rafting
• Trekking
• Nature walk
• Plantation tour

Please read: 7 Best Himachal Pradesh Destinations That Still Unexplored and Lonely

13. Wayanad

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Wayanad tourist places is a charming little vacation getaway that can be visited in the summer. However, visiting Wayanad during the winter season (November / December) will give you the opportunity to witness one of the auspicious festivals in Kerala called Karthigai. It is a famouse festival of lights.

You can see beautiful earthen lamps lit in every home, and your guess is correct, it resembles the popular festival of India, Diwali. In addition to the festival, Wayanad is an ideal destination for a quiet holiday in the midst of nature, both in summer and winter. Wayanad is always a famous place to visit in Kerala.

The best time to visit Wayanad: Throughout the year

Places to Visit in Wayanad?

• Waterfalls Meenmutty Falls, Chethalayam Falls
• Wildlife sites: Tholpetty Sanctuary, Wayanad (Muthanga) wildlife sanctuary, Nagarhole National Park
• Temples and Churches: Thirunelli Temple, Jain Temple, Latin Church
• Other attractions Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Hills, Pookode Lake, Meppadi Hills, Edakkal Caves, Kuruva Islands, Pakshipathalam, Pazhassi Raja Museum, Kutta Forest

What to do in Wayanad?

• Attend the Karthigai Festival (winter)
• Hiking
• Strolling through the tea farms
• Wildlife sighting
• Village tour

14. Kalpetta

Don’t you want to visit Munnar crowded but equally beautiful places to visit in Kerala? So Kalpetta in the Wayanad district is the answer. Surrounded by coffee plantations and numerous temples, Kalpetta promises beautiful views and a calm atmosphere that are ideal for a good holiday in the hill station. One can call it a cheap Munnar alternative.

The best time to visit Kalpetta: October to May

Places to Visit in Kalpetta?

• Janamaithry Park
• Jain Temple of Puliyarmala
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Madakkimala village
• Pookode Lake
• Banasura Sagar Dam
• Chembra Peak
• Edakkal Caves
• Soochippara Falls

What to do in Kalpetta?

• Trekking
• Nature walk
• Wildlife sighting
• Village tour

15. Vagamon

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Vagamon, the main monsoon places to visit in Kerala, offers a stay amidst peaceful and beautiful nature. Most tourists visit this beautiful hill station during monsoons and winter seasons to take amazing photos of misty hills and participate in some adventure activities like hiking, paragliding, and rock climbing.

The best time to visit Vagamon: June to September and March to May

Places to Visit in Vagamon?

• Temples and Churches: Sree Arundhathi Vasishta Temple, Sree Subramanya Swami Temple, RC San Sebastian Church, San Antonio Church, CSI Emmanuel Church
• Waterfalls Marmala Waterfall, Vagamon Lake, Vagamon Fall
• Other attractions Vagamon Pine Forest, Thangal Para, Barren Hills, Mundakayam Ghat, Idukki Dam, Kurisumala, Uluppunni Tunnel

What to do in Vagamon?

• Nature photography
• Nature walk
• Hiking
• Paragliding
• Rock climbing
• Zip line
• Off-road
• Kayak

16. Nelliyampathy

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For a memorable in the winter season, you can visit Nelliyampathy. It is a place with panoramic views of farmland, dense forests, misty mountains, and unconventional hiking trails.

Nelliyampathy is where you can admire the natural beauty and that of different lemon, java, tea, and cardamom farms and enjoy family picnics. You can also hike through various hills if you want your Nelliyampathy vacation to be a bit adventurous.

The best time to visit Nelliyampathy: September to February

Places to Visit in Nelliyampathy?

• Points of view: Hilltop Lookout, Kesavam Para Viewpoint, Ranimedu Estate
• Religious sites: Manalar Mosque, Trishul Temple, Nellikkunnu Devi Temple, CSI Saint John Church, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church
• Village tour: Karady Village, Victoria Village
• Other attractions A.V.T. Manalaroo Estate, Karappara Suspension Bridge, Pothundy Dam, Seetharkundu, Screen, Palagapandi Estate

What to do in Nelliyampathy?

• Trekking
• Nature photography

17. Nilambur

On the banks of the Chaliyar River, Nilambur is a great destination for nature lovers. It is one of the popular places to visit in Kerala in October. Enjoy pleasant weather and allow you to enjoy unspoiled nature while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking.

Some of the top activities to do in Nilambur include exploring the world’s oldest teak plantations on Conolly’s Plot, enjoying views of a lush forest, and visiting the two beautiful waterfalls, Mundakadav and Adyanpara.

You can also plan a trip to Nilambur in January to witness the popular Nilambur Pattu, an ancient Kalampattu festival that is marked by ritual dust drawing on the floor.

The best time to visit Nilambur: December to February

Places to Visit in Nilambur?

• Waterfalls Adyanpara waterfalls, Kozhippara waterfalls, Mundakadav waterfalls
• Other attractions Nedumkayam, Conolly Plot, Biological Resource Park, Teak Museum, Vellari Mala Mountains

What to do in Nilambu?

• Attend Nilambur Pattu
• Trekking
• Visit the tribal settlements in Nedumkayam
• Meet the potters from the village of Aruvanconde

18. Kannur

Known for its beautiful nearby beaches, Kannur is one of the best places to visit in Kerala for beach lovers in India. In the winter month of January or February, Kannur hosts its popular Theyyam Dance Festival, so in addition to enjoying an amazing beach vacation, you can also take a tour of the cultural heritage here.

The best time to visit Kannur: October to March

Places to Visit in Kannur?

• Beaches: Azhikkal Estuary and Azhikode beaches, Muzhappilangad Beach, Adi-Kadalayi Beach, Payyambalam Beach.
• Religious sites: Kalari Vathukkal Temple, Muthappan Temple, Shiva Temple, Shri Maha Vishnu Temple, Sundareshwara Temple, Madayi Mosque
• Other attractions Arakkal Palace & Museum, St. Angelo’s Fort, Snake Park, Valapattanam, Science Park

What to do in Kannur?

• Attend the Theyyam Dance Festival (winter)
• Ornithology
• Hiking
• Local ferry ride
• Wildlife sighting at Aralam wildlife sanctuary

Suggested to read: Honeymoon Places in Tamilnadu for a Romantic Trip in 2020

19. Bekal

Bekal, in the Kasargod district, is a small town for that incredible beach retreat, where you can enjoy a relaxing vacation. Bekal is mainly famous for its majestic 17th century Bekal Fort which is located by the sea.

The city is dotted with numerous resorts that satisfy the good mood on vacation. One can enjoy many water sports in Bekal along with short walks to nearby hill stations. This is no doubt one of the best places to visit in Kerala for a couple.

The best time to visit Bekal: October to March

Places to Visit in Bekal?

• Beaches: Bekal Beach, Kapil Beach, Pallikere Beach
• Powerful Fort Bekal, Fort Chandragiri
• Religious sites: Lake Ananthapura Temple, Malik Deenar Mosque, Church of Our Lady of Sorrows
• Other attractions Backwaters of Valiyaparamba, Bekal Hole Aqua Park

What to do in Bekal?

• Water activities
• Hiking
• Photography

20. Poovar

Poovar, a seaside town in the Thiruvananthapuram district, is another best tourist place in Kerala. It promises a fabulous destination to enjoy the best beach vacation in Kerala. Poovar’s main attraction is the point where you can see the Neyyar river merging with the Arabian Sea. The place is ideal to rest and enjoy boat trips with family and friends.

Best time to visit Poovar: October to February

Places to visit in Poovar?

• Poovar beach
• Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Neyyar Dam
• Thirparappu Falls
• The fishing village
• Arumanoor Koyikkavilakom Sree Bhadrakali Devi Temple
• Vizhinjam International Port

What to do in Poovar?

• Witness to the great breed of elephants
• Visit the town of Kalaripayattu
• Crocodile watching expeditions

I’m sure you must have found your best places to visit in Kerala. If you are planning to visit in 2020, then don’t waste your time fo thinking much. Just book your flight or train, hotel tickets fast before someone else already booked.

Frequently asked questions about places to visit in Kerala:

Q. How many days are enough for a vacation in Kerala?

A minimum of 5 to 8 days is required for a holiday vacation in Kerala.

Q. What should I bring for a monsoon vacation in Kerala?

Kerala receives heavy rains and therefore one should wear clothing that dries quickly. Umbrellas, raincoats, and insect repellents should also be brought when traveling in the monsoon season. You should also bring a good pair of non-slip shoes. For your electronic equipment like phone and camera, carry waterproof cases.

Q. What will be the ideal things to buy in Kerala?

In Kerala, you can buy spices, tea and coffee, banana chips, cashews, aromatic oils, and crafts.

Q. Are there vegetarian restaurants in Kerala?

Yes, Kerala has many vegetarian restaurants in almost every city and town. Not only this, vegan food is also available in many places in Kerala.

Q. What to bring in summer for a trip to Kerala?

Since Kerala is a tropical destination, it is important to bring comfortable cotton clothing, sunscreen / sunscreen, a cap and flip flops during a summer trip to Kerala.

Q. What type of hotels are available in Kerala?

Kerala is a major tourist destination in India and therefore all kinds of hotels can be found here, from budget hotels to mid-range and luxury hotels. Camping facilities, homestays, and hostels are also readily available in Kerala.