Kerala – Gods Own Country: Best Places + Itinerary

Kerala – God's Own Country: Best Places + Itinerary

Meta Description: Discover Kerala, God's Own Country. Complete travel guide with best places to visit, practical itineraries, backwaters, beaches, hill stations, and insider tips.

Introduction: Why They Call It God's Own Country

I'll never forget my first morning in Kerala.

I woke up in a houseboat floating on Vembanad Lake. The air was thick with moisture and the smell of coconut trees. Outside my window, a fisherman stood on a narrow canoe, casting his net in movements so practiced they looked like dance. In the distance, a temple's gopuram (tower) rose above the palm trees. A kingfisher dove into the water, emerging with breakfast.

And I thought: "Okay, I get it. I get why they call this God's Own Country."

Kerala isn't just a marketing slogan success story. This narrow strip on India's southwestern coast genuinely feels different from the rest of India—greener, calmer, more laid-back, yet somehow more alive. It's where the Western Ghats mountains meet the Arabian Sea, creating an ecosystem so lush and diverse it almost feels excessive.

But here's what makes Kerala special beyond the scenery: it's one of India's most developed states. Nearly 100% literacy. Excellent healthcare. Low poverty rates. High life expectancy. Clean(er) streets. Better infrastructure. You get the natural beauty of tropical paradise combined with the comfort of actually functional tourism infrastructure.

Whether you're looking for:

• Houseboat cruises through tranquil backwaters
• Ayurvedic wellness retreats
• Wildlife spotting in protected forests
• Beach relaxation without the Goa party scene
• Tea plantations stretching across misty mountains
• Rich cultural traditions from Kathakali to Theyyam
• Food that'll ruin you for Indian food anywhere else

Kerala delivers. All of it.

This guide will show you the best places to visit in Kerala, how to structure your trip, what to eat, where to stay, and the insider knowledge that turns a good Kerala trip into an unforgettable one.

Ready to understand why this thin slice of India has such an outsized reputation? Let's explore God's Own Country.

Understanding Kerala: The Basics Geography and Climate

Kerala is long and narrow—about 580 km north to south, but only 35-120 km wide. It's essentially a strip between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats mountains.

Three geographical zones:

1. Highlands: Western Ghats with hill stations, tea estates, wildlife sanctuaries
2. Midlands: Rolling hills transitioning to plains
3. Lowlands: Coastal region with beaches, backwaters, lagoons

Climate:

• Tropical monsoon: Hot and humid most of the year
• Monsoon: June-September (heavy rains, especially in highlands)
• Best time to visit: October-March (post-monsoon to pre-summer)

What Makes Kerala Different

Literacy and Development: Kerala has India's highest literacy rate (96.2%). Education is valued. You'll notice it in interactions—people are informed, engaged, politically aware.

Communist History: Kerala has elected communist governments multiple times. This created strong social welfare, labor rights, and public health systems. Love it or hate it politically, it's shaped the state's character.

Matrilineal Traditions: Parts of Kerala (especially Nairs) traditionally followed matrilineal inheritance. Women historically had property rights and social standing unusual in India.

Religious Diversity: Unlike most Indian states, Kerala has significant religious diversity: 55% Hindu, 27% Muslim, 18% Christian (including ancient Syrian Christians). This creates fascinating cultural blend.

Ayurveda: Kerala is India's Ayurvedic capital. Authentic treatments, trained practitioners, centuries of tradition. If you're getting Ayurvedic treatment anywhere in India, Kerala is the place.

The Backwaters: Kerala's Signature Experience

Let's start with what Kerala is most famous for: the backwaters.

What Are the Backwaters?

A network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and lagoons running parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. About 900 km of waterways total, created by waves and shore currents depositing sediments.

Why they're special:

• Unique ecosystem found nowhere else
• Traditional village life visible from the water
• Incredibly peaceful and scenic
• Houseboat stays (kettuvallam)
• Authentic Kerala culture

Alleppey (Alappuzha): The Backwater Capital

Alleppey is the most popular backwater destination, and for good reason.

What to do:

Houseboat Cruises: This is THE Kerala experience. Traditional kettuvallam (rice barges) converted into floating hotels.

Options:

• Day cruise: 6-8 hours, lunch included (₹8,000-15,000 for boat)
• Overnight cruise: 22 hours with all meals (₹10,000-25,000+ depending on luxury level)
• Multi-day: 2-3 days exploring further (₹20,000+)

What to expect:

• Private boat with bedroom(s), bathroom, kitchen
• Crew of 2-3 (captain, cook, helper)
• Cruising through narrow canals, wider lakes
• Watching village life: kids going to school by canoe, fishermen, toddy (palm wine) tappers, duck farms
• Incredible Kerala meals cooked onboard
• Sleeping to the gentle rocking of water

Pro tips:

• Book directly with houseboat operators, not just online aggregators (better prices)
• Avoid peak season weekends if you want tranquility (boats can feel crowded on waterways)
• Private/deluxe boats worth the extra cost for better food and privacy
• Bring mosquito repellent
• Sunset/sunrise on the backwaters is magical—don't sleep through it

Canoe Tours: For more intimate backwater experience, take a canoe tour through narrow village canals. Local guides paddle you through areas houseboats can't reach.

 

Duration: 2-3 hours Cost: ₹500-800 per person Why it's worth it: Closer to village life, quieter, more authentic

Alleppey Beach: Decent beach, good for evening walks. The pier is scenic. Not pristine, but pleasant.

Kumarakom: The Quieter Alternative

About 16 km from Alleppey, Kumarakom offers similar backwater experiences with fewer crowds and more upscale resorts.

What's special:

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Migratory birds (best Nov-March), walking trails, peaceful environment
• Luxury resorts with backwater views
• Quieter waterways
• Similar houseboat options but less commercial

Who it's for: People wanting backwaters without Alleppey's crowds, luxury travelers, birdwatchers

Kollam: The Unexplored Backwaters

Kollam offers the longest backwater cruise (Kollam to Alleppey: 8 hours) but sees fewer tourists.

Why visit:

• Less touristy backwater experience
• Ashtamudi Lake (eight-armed lake)—beautiful and vast
• Cheaper houseboat rates
• Historic Thangassery Beach and lighthouse
• Authentic fishing villages

The catch: Longer distance from other Kerala destinations, less developed tourism infrastructure

Hill Stations: Where Kerala Gets Cool

Kerala's highlands offer dramatic mountain scenery, cooler temperatures, tea estates, and wildlife.

Munnar: The Tea Garden Paradise

Munnar is Kerala's most famous hill station, sitting at about 1,600 meters elevation in the Western Ghats.

Why it's spectacular:

Tea Estates Everywhere: Rolling hills covered in impossibly green tea plantations as far as you can see. The landscape is almost cartoonishly perfect.

What to do:

Tea Estate Tours: Visit Tata Tea Museum and working tea factories. Watch the process from leaf to cup. Buy fresh tea at factory prices.

Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat). The park's rolling grasslands (shola forests) are stunning. Trek to Anamudi Peak (South India's highest at 2,695m).

Best time: Jan-March (Neelakurinji flowers bloom once every 12 years—next in 2030!)

Mattupetty Dam: Lake surrounded by hills, boating available, scenic drive.

Top Station: Viewpoint at 1,880m elevation. On clear days, see Tamil Nadu plains. Sunrise is worth the early wake-up.

Echo Point: Natural echo phenomenon. Touristy but fun.

Tea Plantation Walks: Skip organized tours. Just walk into tea estates. Workers don't mind. It's peaceful, beautiful, and free.

Where to stay:

• Budget: Munnar town center (₹1,000-2,000/night)
• Mid-range: Estates near town (₹3,000-6,000/night)
• Luxury: Tea estate bungalows and resorts (₹10,000+/night)—worth it for the experience

Food tip: Try Kerala porotta with beef fry (if you eat beef). Local specialty that's incredible.

When to visit:

• Best: September-March (post-monsoon, clear skies)
• Avoid: Monsoon (June-August)—heavy rains, landslide risks, poor visibility

Wayanad: The Wild Alternative

Wayanad is less developed than Munnar, which is exactly its appeal—more nature, fewer tourists, better wildlife.

Highlights:

Wildlife Sanctuaries:

• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Elephants, tigers, leopards, deer
• Tholpetty & Muthanga Safari Zones: Early morning safaris (₹300-500)

Edakkal Caves: Prehistoric petroglyphs (rock carvings) from Neolithic age. The climb is steep but the caves are fascinating.

Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Falls): Three-tiered waterfall with swimming pool at base. Trek through forest to reach it. Monsoon is spectacular but dangerous.

Chembra Peak: Highest peak in Wayanad (2,100m). Trekking permitted with forest guide. Heart-shaped lake en route is Instagram-famous for a reason.

Banasura Sagar Dam: India's largest earthen dam. Stunning mountain backdrop. Boating and zip-lining available.

Coffee and Spice Plantations: Like Munnar but with coffee instead of tea. Tours available. Excellent homestays on working plantations.

Who Wayanad is for: Nature lovers, trekkers, people who prefer wilderness over manicured tourism

Thekkady (Periyar): The Spice Route

Thekkady/Periyar is built around Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Periyar Lake.

Main attractions:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: One of India's best-protected tiger reserves. Elephants are common. Tigers exist but sightings are rare (it's a jungle, not a zoo).

Activities:

• Boat safari on Periyar Lake: 2-hour cruise (₹150-450). Elephants often come to drink. Birdwatching is excellent
• Nature walks: With forest guides through jungle trails
• Tiger trail: Full-day trek deep into sanctuary (₹3,000+, advance booking)
• Bamboo rafting: Half-day experience with wildlife watching
• Elephant watching: Morning walks to elephant gathering areas

Spice Plantations: Thekkady is spice country—cardamom, pepper, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg. Plantation tours show you everything growing. Buy fresh spices at excellent prices.

Kathakali & Martial Arts Shows: Evening cultural performances. Kathakali (traditional dance-drama) and Kalaripayattu (Kerala's martial art). Touristy but well done.

Where to stay:

• Budget hotels in Kumily town
• Mid-range resorts near sanctuary
• Luxury: Spice Village (CGH Earth property—expensive but incredible)

Beaches: Beyond the Backwaters

Kerala's 550 km coastline has beautiful beaches—cleaner and quieter than Goa.

Varkala: The Cliff Beach

Varkala is Kerala's most atmospheric beach destination.

What makes it special: The beach sits at the base of dramatic red laterite cliffs. Restaurants, guesthouses, and shops line the cliff top. You can watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea from clifftop cafes while eating fresh seafood.

The vibe: Hippie-adjacent but more evolved. Yoga retreats, Ayurvedic centers, international restaurants, beach parties that don't get too crazy. Backpackers and wellness tourists mix comfortably.

What to do:

• Beach lounging: Clean sand, swimmable (with caution—currents can be strong)
• Cliff walking: Paved path along the cliff edge
• Ayurvedic treatments: Dozens of centers offering massage, panchakarma, etc.
• Yoga classes: Morning yoga facing the sea
• Janardhana Swamy Temple: 2,000-year-old temple at south end of beach
• Sunset watching: Mandatory evening activity

Where to stay: Clifftop (better views, more expensive) or behind cliff (cheaper, quieter). North Cliff is more developed. South Cliff is quieter.

When to visit: November-March (best weather), avoid monsoon

Kovalam: The Classic Beach Resort

Kovalam was Kerala's original beach destination (1930s). More developed, more commercialized, but still beautiful.

Three adjacent beaches:

• Lighthouse Beach: Main beach, most facilities, iconic red-white striped lighthouse
• Hawah Beach (Eve's Beach): Quieter, good swimming
• Samudra Beach: Most peaceful, fewer tourists

Who it's for:

• Beach resort vacationers
• Families wanting amenities
• People who prefer developed tourism infrastructure
• Those combining with Trivandrum sightseeing

Nearby: Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) is 16 km away—state capital with museums, Padmanabhaswamy Temple (incredibly wealthy temple), and city culture.

Marari Beach: The Pristine Escape

Marari is what Kerala beaches looked like before tourism—fishing villages, coconut groves, empty stretches of sand.

What it offers:

• Pristine, relatively undeveloped beach
• Authentic fishing village life
• Excellent resorts (including the famous Marari Beach Resort by CGH Earth)
• Peace and quiet
• Close to Alleppey (15 km)

What it doesn't offer: Nightlife, shopping, lots of restaurants. This is for people wanting to unplug.

Perfect for: Honeymoons, retreats, post-backwater relaxation, people who want beach without commercialization

Bekal: The Fort Beach

Way up in northern Kerala, Bekal is known for the massive Bekal Fort sitting on a headland overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Why visit:

• Spectacular 17th-century fort with sea views
• Much less touristy than southern Kerala
• Beautiful, clean beaches
• Good luxury resorts

The catch: Remote location means longer travel times from other Kerala destinations

Kochi (Cochin): The Cultural Gateway

Kochi is Kerala's most cosmopolitan city and main entry point. It's not just a transit hub—it's worth 2-3 days.

Fort Kochi: The Historic Heart

Fort Kochi (Fort Cochin) is where Kerala's colonial history comes alive.

Must-see:

Chinese Fishing Nets: Giant cantilevered fishing nets brought by Chinese traders in 14th century. Operated by fishermen using counterweights. Photogenic as hell, especially at sunset.

Watch them work, buy fresh fish, have it cooked at nearby restaurants.

Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace): Portuguese-built, Dutch-renovated palace with stunning Kerala murals. The artwork depicting Hindu epics is extraordinary.

Jewish Synagogue (Paradesi Synagogue): Built in 1568, still functioning (though the Jewish community is tiny now). Belgian chandeliers, hand-painted Chinese tiles, ancient scrolls.

St. Francis Church: India's oldest European church (1503). Vasco da Gama was buried here initially (remains moved to Portugal).

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica: Beautiful Portuguese architecture, impressive frescoes.

Spice Markets (Jew Town): Narrow lanes filled with spice shops, antique stores, art galleries. Aromatic chaos.

Street Art: Fort Kochi has become a street art destination. The Kochi-Muziris Biennale (contemporary art festival, Dec-April every odd year) transformed the area.

Kathakali Performance

Kathakali is Kerala's classical dance-drama—elaborate costumes, intense makeup, storytelling through hand gestures and facial expressions.

Where to watch:

• Kerala Kathakali Centre: Daily shows, makeup demonstration before performance (₹400)
• Greenix Village: Also offers Kalaripayattu martial arts demo

Worth it? Yes. The makeup process alone is fascinating. The performance requires acquired taste, but it's culturally significant.

Modern Kochi

Marine Drive: Waterfront promenade perfect for evening walks. Locals gather here. Good street food.

Lulu Mall: One of India's largest malls. Mention it because if you need Western amenities, air-conditioning, or escape from heat, it exists.

Where to eat:

• Kashi Art Cafe: Fort Kochi institution. Breakfast, coffee, art
• Seafood at harbor restaurants: Fresh catch cooked your way
• Dal Roti: North Indian food (a change from constant Kerala meals)

Thrissur: The Cultural Capital

Thrissur is less touristy but culturally important. If you're interested in authentic Kerala culture, it's worth a stop.

Thrissur Pooram

Thrissur Pooram (April-May) is Kerala's most spectacular temple festival. 30+ elephants in ornate decorations, drummers, fireworks, and absolute chaos. If you can time your visit, it's unforgettable.

Vadakkumnathan Temple

Ancient Shiva temple in the city center. Non-Hindus can't enter the inner sanctum, but the grounds are accessible and impressive.

Athirapally Falls

About 60 km from Thrissur, Athirapally is Kerala's largest waterfall (80 feet). Called "India's Niagara" (it's not, but it's still impressive).

Best time: Monsoon and post-monsoon (June-December)

Wildlife & Nature Beyond the Highlights Silent Valley National Park

One of India's most pristine rainforests. Extremely protected—limited entry, advance permission required. For serious nature enthusiasts only.

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

Off-beat tiger reserve with better forest cover than Periyar. Tree-top accommodation available. Good for people wanting wilderness adventure.

Neelakurinji Blooms (Next: 2030)

Every 12 years, the Neelakurinji flower blooms, turning Munnar's hills purple-blue. It's spectacular. Next bloom: 2030. Mark your calendar.

Kerala Food: A Culinary Journey

Kerala cuisine deserves its own section because it's incredible and distinct from North Indian food.

Must-Try Dishes

Sadya: Traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaf. 20-30+ items including:

• Multiple curries and gravies
• Avial (mixed vegetables in coconut)
• Olan (ash gourd in coconut milk)
• Sambar, rasam
• Payasam (sweet dessert)
• Banana chips, pappadam

Where to get: Any restaurant offering sadya. Best during Onam festival (August-September).

Appam with Stew: Hoppers (bowl-shaped fermented rice pancakes) with vegetable or meat stew. Breakfast favorite.

Kerala Porotta with Beef/Chicken Curry: Flaky layered flatbread with spicy curry. Street food gold. Beef version is famous but only in areas where beef eating is common.

Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaf, grilled. Backwater specialty.

Puttu and Kadala: Steamed rice cake with black chickpea curry. Traditional breakfast.

Malabar Biryani: Different from North Indian biryani—uses short-grain rice, different spice mix. Delicious.

Fish Moilee: Fish in coconut milk curry. Mild, creamy, comforting.

Thalassery Biryani: North Kerala specialty. Distinct preparation method.

Where to Eat

Local meals (meals hotels): Cheap, authentic, unlimited rice-based meals Beach shacks: Fresh seafood, grilled or fried Hotel restaurants: Cleaner, AC, higher prices Toddy shops: Traditional palm wine bars serving excellent Kerala food (authentic but can be rowdy)

Sample Itineraries 7-Day Kerala Highlights

Day 1: Arrive Kochi, explore Fort Kochi Day 2: Kochi sightseeing, evening Kathakali Day 3: Kochi to Munnar (4-5 hours), tea estate visit Day 4: Munnar (Eravikulam Park, viewpoints) Day 5: Munnar to Alleppey (4.5 hours), board houseboat evening Day 6: Houseboat cruise, disembark, to Varkala Day 7: Varkala beach, depart from Trivandrum airport

10-Day Kerala Deep Dive

Days 1-2: Kochi (Fort Kochi, cultural shows) Day 3: Kochi to Munnar Day 4: Munnar exploration Day 5: Munnar to Thekkady (3 hours) Day 6: Thekkady (Periyar safari, spice tour) Day 7: Thekkady to Alleppey, board houseboat Day 8: Houseboat to Kumarakom, then to Varkala Days 9-10: Varkala beach relaxation

14-Day Complete Kerala

Days 1-2: Kochi Days 3-4: Wayanad (wildlife, nature) Days 5-6: Kannur (Theyyam performances if timing is right) Day 7: Bekal Fort, to Thrissur Day 8: Thrissur, to Munnar Days 9-10: Munnar Day 11: Thekkady Day 12: Alleppey houseboat Days 13-14: Varkala or Marari beach

Practical Information Best Time to Visit

Peak season (Oct-March): Best weather, but higher prices and more tourists Shoulder season (April-May): Hot but manageable, fewer crowds Monsoon (June-September): Lush and beautiful, but heavy rains affect some activities. Ayurvedic treatments are best during monsoon (body absorbs medicines better in humidity)

Getting Around

Train: Connects major cities (Kochi, Trivandrum, Kollam) Bus: Excellent KSRTC network, cheap, reaches everywhere Taxi/Car rental: Most comfortable for multi-destination trips Auto-rickshaws: Use meter or negotiate fare beforehand Domestic flights: Kochi, Trivandrum, Kozhikode airports

Budget Breakdown (per person/day)

Budget: ₹1,500-2,500 ($18-30) Mid-range: ₹3,500-6,000 ($42-72) Luxury: ₹10,000+ ($120+)

What to Pack

• Light, breathable cotton clothes
• Modest clothing for temple visits
• Rain gear (always, even off-season)
• Mosquito repellent
• Sunscreen and hat
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimwear for beaches

Conclusion: Why Kerala Keeps Calling People Back

Here's the thing about Kerala—it's not just one experience. It's layers.

You come for the backwaters and discover the mountains. You come for Ayurveda and fall in love with the food. You come for beaches and get drawn into the culture. You come for nature and find yourself changed by the pace of life.

God's Own Country isn't just marketing. There's a quality to life here that's different—a slower rhythm, a deeper connection to nature, a cultural richness that spans religions and centuries. From ancient Jewish synagogues to Portuguese churches to Hindu temples to Muslim mosques, often within walking distance of each other—Kerala shows what pluralism actually looks like.

The literacy, the social development, the political awareness, the environmental consciousness—they all create a destination that's both quintessentially Indian and entirely unique.

Whether you spend a week or a month, whether you go luxury or budget, whether you seek adventure or relaxation—Kerala accommodates. The backwaters flow regardless. The tea grows on hills whether you see it or not. The beaches remain. The culture continues.

But here's my advice: Don't try to see it all in one trip. Pick 3-4 experiences. Do them deeply. Leave space for wandering, for unplanned conversations, for lazy afternoons on houseboats, for extra days on beaches because you just don't want to leave yet.

Because Kerala's not just about what you see—it's about how it makes you feel. And that requires time, presence, and willingness to let the place work its magic.

The green will restore you. The water will calm you. The food will delight you. The people will surprise you.

And you'll understand why they call it God's Own Country.

Now go book that houseboat. Your Kerala story is waiting.