The hills, backwaters, beaches and wildlife that make up a perfect Kerala trip.
By the Itinerary Diary Travel Desk · Updated 13 July 2026
Quick answer
The top places to visit in Kerala are Munnar (tea hills), the Alleppey backwaters, Kochi, Thekkady/Periyar, Wayanad and the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala. A classic trip combines hills, a houseboat night and the coast over 6–8 days. See our Kerala travel guide.
Munnar & the hills
Rolling tea estates, cool air and viewpoints; nearby Vagamon and Wayanad add forests and waterfalls.
Alleppey & Kumarakom backwaters
The heart of Kerala — a private houseboat night on the palm-lined canals is unmissable.
Kochi (Cochin)
Fort Kochi's Chinese fishing nets, cafes, galleries and Kathakali performances.
Thekkady & Wayanad
Spice plantations and the Periyar lake safari at Thekkady; forests and wildlife in Wayanad.
Beaches — Kovalam, Varkala, Marari
From resort-lined Kovalam to cliff-top Varkala and quiet Marari.
Frequently asked questions
Munnar, the Alleppey backwaters, Kochi, Thekkady (Periyar), Wayanad and the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala.
The Alleppey backwaters and the tea hills of Munnar are often considered Kerala's most beautiful, along with the beaches of Varkala.
Comfortably three to four — for example Kochi, Munnar, the backwaters and a beach — at an unhurried pace.
Kochi, Munnar and the Alleppey backwaters give the fullest first impression, with a beach to finish.
Yes — Wayanad offers forests, wildlife, waterfalls and cooler air, ideal for nature lovers with a little extra time.
Explore Fort Kochi's Chinese fishing nets, Dutch and Portuguese heritage, cafes and galleries, and watch a Kathakali performance.
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