8 Best Family Trips You Can Take In Kerala

“God’s own country. Or heaven on Earth. Place full of mountains, greenery, and streams, Oh Kerala! God created you with utmost care.”

Rekha Menon

The natural beauty of Kerala calls out to the adventurous souls of solo travellers, family groups, and couples. That is why this state is considered one of the ten paradises of the world. The breathtaking backwaters, the temples, and the culture of Kerala will awe you in every aspect. 

The beauty of this state is such that it makes a perfect tourist attraction for families and couples. Kerala is one of India’s most popular tourist places as stats show that in 2021 around 75 lakhs tourists visited different parts of this state. 

It will be exciting to discover this vast land of coconuts where our beloved Indian athlete, Anju Bobby George, profound writer Arundhati Roy, Shashi Tharoor, P.T Usha and many more were born. Here is everything you want to know if you explore Kerala on a family trip. 

Here is everything you want to know if you explore Kerala on a family trip

1. The Mountainous Region – Munnar 

If Kerala is your travel destination and you did not visit Munnar,, you missed Kerala’s heart. The tea plantation, the weather, and the resorts make it a perfect tourist spot. Check out some of the best hotel options in Munnar on Cleartrip & look out for amazing flight offers as well!

Undoubtedly, Munnar is different yet unique. The tea plantation on a sloping mountain and Eco Point where you experience how powerful your voice is, made me realise what I was missing out on despite being a hill person. 

I have never seen mountains that add to the beauty of a place in such a mesmerising way. The roads here cut between these plantations and give you a sense of belongingness even as a tourist. It was a perfect family vacation for me. Also, if your guilty pleasure is a cup of tea, just like me, then paying a visit to the tea museum will make your day for sure.

2. The Jewel of Kerala – Backwaters

Have you ever witnessed a sunset while sitting in a boat right in the centre of the Arabian Sea? Well, I have, and I still remember how beautiful it felt. The turquoise water and coconut plantation make this scenic view more appealing. 

Kerala is known for its Backwaters, and tourists from the globe visit Alleppey Backwaters to explore the beauty of this South Indian state. Unlike Munnar, the weather here is hot and humid, even in February. 

Still, it makes a list of famous tourist places in South India or ‘Venice of the East’. If you want to explore the splendid Backwaters of Kerala, then here is a list of the famous ones you shouldn’t miss:

  • Sasthamkotta Backwaters – Kollam
  • Padanna Backwaters – Kasaragod
  • Alumkadavu – Kollam
  • Valiyaparamba Backwaters – Kasaragod
  • Marine Drive – Kochi
  • Ashtamudi Backwaters – Kollam
  • Pathiramanal Backwaters
  • Kavvayi Backwaters – Payyanur 
  • Thiruvallam Backwaters – Thiruvananthapuram 
  • Vembanad Lake – Kumarakom

3. The Nature’s True Gift – Wayanad 

Wayanad is known for its wildlife and spices. This place in Kerala has a plethora of resorts, waterfalls, and caves. At Wayanad Wildlife Reserve, flora and fauna are integral to its beauty. This place is Kerala falls in the Western Ghats, where the magic of nature resides. If you plan a trip to Wayanad, we will find elephants, leopards, and other wildlife animals. Also, this is the perfect nearest tourist spot to visit with family if travelling from Bengaluru. You can check Cleartrip to find great deals on hotels in Wayanad.

When I travelled with my family here, I witnessed three National Parks that came during the journey – Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Mudumalai. Here is a list of places in Wayanad that one should surely visit:

  • Soochipara Falls
  • Edakkal Caves
  • Banasura Sagar Dam
  • Chembra Peak
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

4. Kochi -The Queen of the Arabian Sea

Kochi is the industrial, financial and economic capital of Kerala. It is an integral part of the ecotourist cog in the state. Kochi has a vintage touch, yet its fashionable markets and restaurants are commendable. To witness the rich culture of Kerala, this town has a plethora of temples, heritage sites, and museums. 

Here you can also chill for a while on beaches and enjoy the sunset. Kochi also holds a special place in dance – you can closely explore Kathak and Kalarippayattu, the beautiful art forms of Indian dance tradition. 

This is one of the famous tourist spots in India and the best time to visit Kochi is between April and July. I recommend visiting these places if you ever wish to visit Kochi:

  • Mattancherry Palace
  • Kerala Kathakali Centre
  • Cherai Beach 
  • Fort Kochi 
  • Jewish Synagogue 
  • Lulu Mall 

5. The Hidden Paradise of Kerala – Varkala 

Varkala delivers a travel experience that allows you to touch everything from the globe in this small town. This place is best known for its beaches, lighthouses, lakes, forts, hills, etc! This town is adjacent to the Arabian Sea on a 15 m high Northern Cliff. 

The pop-culture here allows you to enjoy seafood and great company in small shacks along with music of all types. You can also witness the samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru – Kerala Saint. 

Apart from this, the famous Jardana Temple is located here. Throughout the year, the weather is pleasant, so you can plan your vacation at any time of the year. From ayurvedic spas to water sports and budget-friendly resorts, this place is a must for your Kerala vacation bucket list. 

6. An untouched gem of Kerala – Poovar 

Poovar is almost 30kms away from Thiruvananthapuram and is best known for its golden sand beaches. Here, you can also enjoy the experience of losing your mind. Body and soul in Kerala Backwaters. This is the fishing village of Kerala, which falls between the Arabian sea and the Neyyar River. 

Poovar Beach is an untouched gem and can only be explored through a boat. I remember taking this ride with my family and watching the sun fall asleep in the arms of the sea. 

The best time to visit Poovar is from March to August. You can always book your resorts and flights in advance from Cleartrip to avoid any price hike during tourist season time. Here is a list of the famous tourist spots in Poovar:

  • Thirparappu Falls 
  • Poovar Beach
  • The Fishing Village 
  • Vizhinjam 

7. India’s Mecca – Sabarimala 

This town is famous for the Sabarimala temple, as around 30 million people visit it yearly. This is the only place after the Hajj Pilgrimage in Mecca to have such a large number of pilgrims. 

This town is located on the riverside of the Pampa river and is situated inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Apart from this temple, here are some places you can visit in Sabarimala:

  • Ayyappa Temple
  • Erumeli
  • Malikappuram Devi Temple
  • Vavar Shrine
  • Makaravilakku 

8. Known for National Tiger Reserve – Thekkady 

India’s largest Tiger Reserve, Periyar, is located in Thekkady. If you want to visit the reserve and see some wild animals, you need to take an early morning boat safari. 

Several Thekkady tourist places can be visited apart from the National Reserve – Chellar Kovil, Anakarra, and Murikaddy. The weather here is delightful, therefore you can plan a trip any day of the year. 

Conclusion

Kerala is a place where nature is at its best. There is no doubt that God made this state by keeping all the aspects of life in mind – culture, nature, temples, heritage, lifestyle, and much more. This state is blessed with the best weather and tourism. You can pick a place to visit here as per your climate preference. If you want to visit Kerala during your vacations, then book a place to stay and your flights from Cleartrip as there are amazing offers available. Here, you will not only take my memories but will also understand the roots of Indian culture. There is no point in visiting a place if it does not leave a mark for a lifetime.

FAQs on Family Tour Destinations in Kerala

When should I visit Kerala?

Kerala can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time is during the winter season. Also, one should always avoid travelling to Kerala during the monsoon season.

What is the other name of Kerala?

Kerala is also famous for the phrase, God’s own country. It is also known as one of the ten paradises of the world and the land of coconuts.

Which is the No.1 tourist place in Kerala?

Munnar is Kerala’s most visited tourist spot, followed by Alleppey, Kochi, and Wayanad.

How to reach Kerala?

Kerala is the only state in India with four airports that cater to domestic and international flights. The best airport in Kerala is Kochi International Airport.

How many days are enough to visit Kerala?

Depending on your location, around 8-9 days are needed to explore Kerala for a family trip. For a couple, 4-5 days are enough to explore one tourist place in Kerala.

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