12 Best Places to Visit in Kerala During Monsoon for Nature Lovers
Monsoon in Kerala is not just about continuous rains and a gloomy environment. One also gets embraced with the glowing sun rays in between the rains which totally balance the damp weather. Unlike other places, Kerala has two rainy seasons known as Edavapathy and Thulavarsham. The first starts in June and ends by mid-August whereas the second one starts in October and goes till mid-November.
The lush green forests, crystalline beaches, and beautiful backwaters make Kerala one of the most popular holiday destinations. Monsoon is undoubtedly the most preferred season for visiting Kerala because of the added romanticism and beauty. Tourists who are planning to visit Kerala in Monsoons can explore the below-mentioned places by selecting from various Kerala Monsoon Trip Packages.
Places to Visit in Kerala During Monsoon:
1. Ashtamudi Lake – One of The Largest Backwaters of Kerala:
Located about 80 km away from Trivandrum, the Ashtamudi Lake is a gateway to the backwaters. It is the 2nd largest lake in Kerala and is famous for houseboat rides, boating, and fishing. The great scenic view of Chinese fishing nets and the captivating atmosphere will surely be a memorable experience for you. Ashtamudi is among the lesser-known monsoon tourist places in Kerala that truly deserves attention.
- Location: Kollam District, Kerala
- Nearby Places to Visit: Thangassery Light House, Jatayu Earth’s Center, Munroe Island
- Things to Do: Canoeing and Kayaking, Bird Watching, Houseboat Cruising
- Stay Options: Ashtamudi Villas, Nani Hotels and Resorts, Samiira on Ashtamudi Lake
2. Thekkady – Wildlife & Tea Gardens
This place will mesmerize you to the core if you are planning your visit in monsoon. The Periyar National Park of Thekkady is said to be one of the finest wildlife reserves in India. Also, the Periyar Lake would touch your soul deep down with its magical beauty.
The tea plantation near Thekkady is also a must-visit during the monsoon as you would definitely get some amazing views amidst the drizzles. If you’re looking for peaceful yet exciting monsoon tourism in Kerala, Thekkady should top your list.
- Location: Idukki District, Kerala
- Nearby Places to Visit: Periyar National Park, Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre, Thekkady Rose Park
- Things to Do: Trekking, Nature Walks, Tribal Heritage Walk, Jeep Safari, Bamboo Rafting
- Stay Options: Hotel Crystals Cove, Woodnote Thekkady, Thekkady Eden Crest
3. Alleppey Backwaters – Houseboat Heaven
If you want to beat out the stress and wish to relax with your loved ones then you must not miss the green shores of Alleppey. The vibrant beauty of Alleppey backwaters doubles during the monsoons. So, if you are planning your trip during the monsoons then the houseboat experience in this place would simply leave you spellbound.
Tourists planning their visit in August should not miss out on the annual snake boat race as it’s a visual delight for the onlookers. One of them, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is organized every second Saturday of August.
The Kumarakom bird sanctuary is the ideal place to visit during the early monsoon months i.e. June and July. It’s one of the rainy season tourist places in Kerala that offers both relaxation and nature exploration.
- Location: Alappuzha District, Kerala
- Nearby Places to Visit: Vembanad Lake, Marari Beach, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, Alappuzha Lighthouse
- Things to Do: Houseboat Cruise, Shikara Ride, Kayaking/Canoeing, Birdwatching
- Stay Options: Lemon Dew Beach House, Colonel’s Beach Villa, Camelot Hotel
Read More: Best Places to Visit in Alleppey with Family for 1-2 Days
4. Munnar – Misty Tea Plantations
If you wish to explore the beauty of the hills then Munnar hill station should not be missed. A peaceful walk around the mist-covered tea plantations would never tire you. Also, if you love adventure then trekking at Munnar during monsoon may be a memorable experience for you. Also, Munnar is known as a “Piece of Heaven on Earth”. Travelers love to include Munnar when searching for the best monsoon destinations in Kerala due to its misty hills and aromatic tea gardens.
- Location: Idukki District, Kerala
- Places to Visit: Munnar Rose Garden, Mattupetty Dam, Top Station, Eravikulam National Park
- Things to Do: Tea Plantation Visits, Scenic Viewpoints, Adventure Sports
- Stay Options: The Lake View Munnar Resort, Lumino Dwellings, Hotel Emerald Inn
Read More: Perfect Tourist Places to Visit in Munnar You Shouldn’t Miss on Your Trip
5. Athirapally Falls – The Niagara of Kerala
The cascading beauty is better known as the Niagara of Kerala and is best for a visit from June to September. Athirapally Falls is at its best during the rains and its mesmerizing beauty can just not be ignored by the tourists. Athirapally is one of the finest waterfalls of Kerala among the other breathtaking waterfalls in Kerala, like Thommankuthu Waterfalls, Nyayamkadu Waterfalls, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, and the list goes on… It definitely ranks high among the places to visit in Kerala in monsoon for nature lovers.
- Location: Thrissur District, Kerala
- Places to Visit: Vazhachal Waterfalls, Muniyattukunnu, Charpa Waterfalls, Silver Storm Water Theme Park
- Things to Do: Birdwatching, Trekking, Picnicking
- Stay Options: Silver Storm Resort, Sterling Athirappilly, Hydel Palace Hotel
Read More: Best Tourist Places to Visit in Athirappilly
6. Bekal Fort – Historic Fort & Coastal Views
If you love forts, beaches, and hills then you can get all together at Bekal. Bekal Fort is popularly known for the picturization of a song from the movie ‘Bombay’. Sightseeing amidst the showers may be an absolute experience for you. It is the one from the historical places of Kerala.
- Location: Kasaragod District, Kerala
- Places to Visit: Hosdurg Beach, Chandragiri Fort
- Things to Do: Explore the fort’s walls, watchtowers, and secret passages, enjoying panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and surrounding landscape
- Stay Options: Gateway Bekal, Hotel Bekal International, Hotel Bekal Palace
7. Mararikulam – Serene Beach Village
Mararikulam is a beach village, situated at the heart of the Alleppey backwaters. Its untouched beauty will definitely charm you to the fullest. This place offers vibrant scenic views which are perfect to enjoy during the monsoons. You can also hit the Marari beach and enjoy the rainy season to the core.
- Location: Alappuzha District, Kerala
- Places to Visit: Marari Beach, Pathiramanal, Mararikulam Shiva Temple
- Things to Do: Sunbathing, Relaxing on the beach, Sea surfing, Swimming, Snorkeling
- Stay Options: Azure Tides Marari, Marari Blue Waves, Marari Lotus Beach Villa
8. Nelliyampathy Hills – An Unexplored Hill Station to Visit in Kerala
This is another beautiful hill station near Palakkad just after the famous Pothundi dam. The stunning beauty of these hills will definitely attract you. It is also an ideal destination for trekking during the monsoon. For those seeking best places to visit in Kerala during rainy season, this hidden gem offers unmatched peace and solitude.
- Location: Palakkad District, Kerala
- Places to Visit: Pothundi Dam, Meenkara Dam, Nelliyampathy Caves
- Things to Do: Rock Climbing, Trekking and Hiking, Mountain Biking, Paragliding and Paramotoring, Off-Road Jeep Safaris
- Stay Options: Cotsvilla Resort, Hill View Homestay, Santhi Hill View Resorts
Read More: 17 Best Places to Visit in Palakkad That Will Make Your Trip Amazing
9. Kovalam Beach – Golden Shores & Lighthouse
Kovalam is a famous beach that is highly visited during the monsoon season because at this time the beauty of the place gives you a heavenly experience.
The beach area is surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. However, you can also enjoy some of the best cultural festivals which are often held here to lure visitors to Kovalam Beach.
- Location: Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala
- Places to Visit: Neyyar Dam, Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium, Vellayani Lake, Hawa Beach
- Things to Do: Sunbathing, swimming, and water activities like parasailing and snorkeling.
- Stay Options: Vijaya Varma Beach Resort, Hotel Sea Face, Hotel Beach Florra Inn
Read More: Best 5 Star Hotels & Resorts in Kovalam For a Luxurious Stay in Kerala
10. Wayanad – Green Paradise of Kerala
Wayanad (Wayanadu) is known as the green heaven which is loaded with natural life, and woodland and lies in the northeast of Kerala.
The tremendous stretches of fog-covered mountains, green glades of valleys, white water springs, blue water lakes, and wild woods express the unbelievable regular excellence of Wayanad. The beauty of its natural green cover rises at the time of monsoon which forces visitors from all the corners of the country to come here.
- Places to Visit: Lakkidi View Point, Thirunelli Mahavishnu Temple, Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls
- Things to Do: Trekking, Bamboo Rafting, Wildlife Safari, Zip-lining and Rock Climbing, Boating
- Stay Options: Le Sapphire Hotel & Restaurant, Wayanad Royal Crown, Zostel Plus
11. Idukki – Dams, Waterfalls & Wildlife
Idukki is one of the most stunning places in Kerala during the monsoon. People visit this place to explore various places such as the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, the peaceful Idukki Arch Dam, Alvary Mount, Painavu, Thommankuthu, Keezharkuthu Waterfalls, and many more. These tourist attractions of Idukki are so popular among couples to visit these places to feel the atmosphere and amazing nature views.
- Places to Visit: Hill View Park, Idukki Dam, Cheruthoni Dam, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
- Things to Do: Trekking, camping, and wildlife safaris
- Stay Options: Goshen Hotel & Resort, Earth Lounge Resort, Bluemount Homestay
12. Ponmudi – Golden Valley Trek
Ponmudi Hills is the most amazing place to visit in the monsoon season. This place is for those who really want adventure in their life and to explore such beautiful scenes through hiking and trekking. And also explore nearby places like Mankayam Waterfalls, Ponmudi Rock, and Meenmutty Falls.
- Location: Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala
- Places to Visit: Golden Valley, Meenmutty Falls, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Ponmudi ViewPoint
- Things to Do: Trekking, Photography, Wildlife Spotting, Nature Walks, Camping
- Stay Options: Hotel Rohini International, River County Resort, Duke’s Forest Lodge
Best Time to Visit Kerala in Monsoon – Month by Month
| Month | What Happens | Weather | Best Places to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | Waterfalls start flowing, hills turn green overnight | Moderate rain, roads can be slippery | Munnar, Thekkady, Athirapally |
| July | Peak monsoon season, heaviest rainfall, very few tourists | Heavy rains, leeches active in forests | Athirapally Falls, Wayanad, Nelliyampathy |
| August | Nehru Trophy Boat Race on 2nd Saturday, Onam festival preparations begin | Rains start easing, still humid | Alleppey Backwaters, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary |
| September | Best overall monsoon month, gentle and steady rains, landscape fully green | Pleasant weather, light showers | Munnar, Wayanad, Alleppey, Idukki |
| October | Second monsoon season (Thulavarsham) begins, lighter than first monsoon | Light to moderate rain, easier to travel | Bekal Fort, Kovalam Beach, Ponmudi |
Ayurveda in Kerala Monsoon – Why It’s Special
Monsoon is the best time for Ayurveda treatment in Kerala. Cool, moist weather helps the body absorb healing oils much better.
- Popular treatments: Panchakarma, Njavara Kizhi, Pizhichil, Shirodhara
- Best places: Kovalam, Thekkady, Wayanad, Kumarakom
- Tip: Always choose resorts with certified Ayurveda doctors (Vaidya), not just spas.
What to Pack for Kerala Monsoon:
- Light cotton clothes + one warm jacket
- Waterproof trekking shoes (avoid white – red mud stains!)
- Raincoat or poncho
- Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, ORS sachets
- Power bank
- Ziplock bags for phone/wallet
Leech Safety Tips for Trekking:
Leeches are active in monsoon forests (Wayanad, Thekkady, Ponmudi, Idukki).
How to stay safe:
- Wear leech socks (tuck into shoes)
- Apply salt water on socks before trekking
- Keep moving, don’t stand still
- Check yourself every 30 minutes
If leech attaches: Apply salt or hand sanitiser – it will detach on its own. Clean the bite with antiseptic.
Who Should Visit Which Place?
- Couples: Munnar, Alleppey houseboat, Thekkady, Kovalam Our Kerala honeymoon packages include the best romantic monsoon stays and Ayurveda treatments for couples.
- Families: Athirapally, Wayanad, Thekkady, Ashtamudi Lake Book resorts close to attractions so you don’t drive on wet roads with kids.
- Solo Travellers: Wayanad, Nelliyampathy, Ponmudi, Idukki Budget homestays are cheaper and you’ll meet local families. Always trek with a local guide.
Kerala is the absolute destination for those who love vacationing as the captivating beauty of this place never tires the vacationers.
FAQs:
Munnar is perfect for misty tea plantations and waterfalls, while Alleppey backwaters offer peaceful houseboat cruises with lush green views. For adventure lovers, Athirapally Falls and Wayanad are spectacular during monsoon rains.
Kerala has two rainy seasons – Edavapathy (from June to mid-August) and Thulavarsham (from October to mid-November). These are the best times to enjoy monsoon tourism.
Yes, Kerala is safe for monsoon travel. Just avoid heavy trekking after intense rainfall, check weather updates for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad, and stay in well-rated accommodations near tourist attractions.
Absolutely! Alleppey and Kumarakom offer the best backwater houseboat experiences in monsoon. Cool breeze, green surroundings, and raindrops on the water create a romantic, peaceful atmosphere.
Yes! Athirapally Falls reaches peak flow between June and August with massive water volume. Other spectacular monsoon waterfalls include Meenmutty Falls in Wayanad and Thommankuthu Falls in Idukki.
Yes, it’s generally safe, but you should avoid very steep treks during heavy rains. These places are great for scenic views and light trekking, especially if the weather is not too stormy.
Yes, the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race held in August at Alleppey is very famous. It’s a colorful and thrilling event watched by many tourists.
Yes! Monsoon is the ideal time for Ayurveda and wellness treatments. Cool, moist weather helps the body absorb healing oils better. Kovalam, Thekkady, and Kumarakom have excellent Ayurveda resorts.
