36 Amazing Things to Do in Kerala for Nature, Beaches & Backwater Experiences
Once in a lifetime visiting Kerala is on everybody’s bucket list. From weather to tradition, art forms to spices, adventurous sports to peaceful Yoga-Meditation, from food to drinks Kerala is a complete package for holidays. You can plan with either family or friends, in January or December, after the monsoon or before summers; Kerala will never disappoint you. Though, every planned trip to Kerala would be insufficient in comparison to the number of things to do it has.
Why Kerala is One of the Best Travel Destinations in India?
Kerala is different from many other tourist places in India. It offers a unique mix of nature, culture, tradition, and relaxation.
Unlock Best Deal on Kerala Tour Package NowSome reasons why travelers love visiting Kerala:
- Beautiful hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad
- Peaceful backwaters in Alleppey and Kumarakom
- Clean beaches like Kovalam and Varkala
- Rich Ayurvedic wellness traditions
- Delicious local Kerala cuisine
- Unique art forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam
- Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks
- Friendly local people and relaxing atmosphere
Because of these reasons, Kerala attracts millions of tourists every year from India and abroad.
Most Popular Things to Do in Kerala:
Kerala, a southern state in India, is known for its lush greenery, backwaters, ayurvedic treatments, and tea plantations. If you are in search of a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life, then Kerala is the perfect destination! Here are some of the things to do in Kerala:
1. Fix a ‘Talk over Walk’ In Tea Gardens of Munnar:

The lush green and picturesque tea gardens of Munnar hold the first position among things to do in Kerala. The reason behind is the beautiful surroundings it has. Having a romantic walk here with family and friends is recommended. The pictures clicked here would be memorable and colorful. Please note, clicking photographs is ban in some tea gardens. Hence it is better to ask before clicking.
2. Relax On The Silent Beaches Of Cherai And Marari:

Cherai beach and Marari beach are known for the peace they hold. Only the waves make noise here. These beaches are clean and therefore mostly chosen by honeymoon couples to seat for some time in solitude. A book, something to eat and drink and you are good to go.
3. Spend Romantic Hours On The Hills Of Munnar:

Munnar is a hill station therefore mostly has a pleasant climate throughout the year. If you are planning for the honeymoon or celebrating togetherness, then there could be the better place than Munnar. Spending 2-3 days there would be the pleasurable experience.
4. Bid a Goodbye to Sun at Kovalam Beach:

The Kovalam beach is known among the best place for sunset view in India. The in and out of waves, the cool breeze around and tranquility forms a perfect combination to enjoy here.
5. Unforgettable Cochin Carnival Awaits You Every Year:
If you are a shopping enthusiast then attend the shopping fiesta Cochin Carnival. Celebrated annually in December this carnival’s highlights are the massive march on the New Year’s Day.
6. Visit Bekal Fort to Capture Its Immense Beauty:
The enormous Bekal Fort, Kasargod is amongst the most significant forts in Kerala and has been utterly upheld. It held up its head to 130 ft. above sea level and is positioned on a peninsula straddling 35km. Visiting anytime in from March to August is suggested.
7. Fort Kochi Will Steal Your Heart:

Fort Kochi is an old building in Ernakulam. It still holds remnants of its earlier splendor. A tour of Fort Kochi will remind you of the gentle pot of art, music, and literature our country once had.
8. Capture the Beauty of Backwaters in a Houseboat:
There is no other way better than a stay of 2-3 nights in a houseboat to explore the backwaters of Kerala. The voyage experience would turn out to be a refresher for mind, body, and soul. Merely seat and relax on the deck of the houseboat, all your needs would be taken care of.
9. Stay In A Tree House:
Known by the name of ‘Erumadam’ the tree houses in Kerala is a must-experience thing. Tree houses are constructed of giant robust trees supervising the forests. You can stay in the hotel anywhere else in the world but when you are in Kerala, residing in a tree house is advisable.
There are best tree house resorts in Kerala you can choose from and this is where we can help you.
10. Witness the Snake Boat Race:

The yearly snake boat race in Kerala is an exclusive sporting show owing to its scale and fame. The snake boat races are organized after monsoon in various cities of Kerala. The famous among all is Nehru Trophy Boat Race. It is mesmerizing to watch the decorated boats and powerful boatmen pulling the boats fast to win the race.
11. Soothe Yourself With Genuine Ayurvedic Massage:

Yes, of course, take a good and soothing body massage when in Kerala. The oils, creams, laps that are used for massage are of the purest quality here. The massagers take their job seriously and giving you a soulful of satisfaction.
12. Enjoy Watching The Local Art Forms:
From Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Chakyar Koothu, Theyyam, Ottamthullal, Nangiar Koothu to Panchavadyam, you will experience Kerala’s tradition at its best. These local art forms describe much about the customs, art, literature, and values of Kerala.
13. You Will Love the Amazing Tolpava Koothu- Puppet Show
It is an old weird formalized art form devoted to Bhagavati. Tolpava Koothu is executed from January to May at the mainly made theatre. This exceptional shadow puppet theatre is worth watching.
14. Watching A Kalaripayattu Show To Earn The Energy:

Kalaripayattu is the hoariest popular martial art form. It is part of the openness, legacy, and principles of India. The awareness of this art has handed through many age band, from its commencement to the nowadays.
15. Learn How To Put Pookalam:

Variations of flowers in different colors are incorporated to create attractive Pookalam designs. It is a variant of Rangoli. If you happen to travel to Kerala during Onam, you can observe beautiful Pookalam outside every native home for consecutive ten days.
16. Get A Kathakali Mask To Decorate Your Home:

The world famous Kathakali Mask is considered among the best memories of Kerala trip. Buy the attractive Kathakali mask as wall-hanging for adding the lushness of the Indian art, music, and literature to your home.
17. Taste the Original Payasam:

It is a beautiful sweet course that has many names in India. It is relished in entire Kerala by every age group. It is healthy and delicious as it takes in ingredients like milk, cashews, sugar, almonds, cardamom powder, saffron, etc.
18. Tasting the Local Food Stuff on Road Side Stalls:
No matter from whichever part of India you belong to, the excitement of tasting the roadside food stalls remains the same. When in Kerala you must eat at some of those roadside stalls to have a taste of various banana recipes and other.
19. Buy The Original And Pure Spices At Affordable Rates:
No matter you cook personally or professionally, the spices like cloves, black pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, etc. are found freshest here. These spices can add a zing to your food.
20. Roam in The Paddy Fields:
No wonder if you come across many paddy fields while your road travels in Kerala. Don’t miss the chance to wander in them. You can click pictures and make memories in these paddy fields.
21. Understand The Tea Making Process Form Its Origination:

Kerala is also famous for tea plantations. There are many tea estates in Kerala that take you for a long walk explaining the entire tea making process from plucking to finalizing. It would be a learning and pleasing experience altogether.
22. Shopping In The Local Markets:
Shopping is a must when in Kerala. The interesting artifacts and show pieces that Kerala’s local artisans make are matchless among the entire India. You also shop for Sarees, Dhoti-Kurtas, spices, and several other decorative items.
23. Take Out Sometime For Yoga At Ashrams:
Among all the Indian states, Kerala has a peaceful environment, a pure breeze flowing around, and coolness in the atmosphere thus making it an excellent place for practicing Yoga. Many Ashrams run paid and free Yoga courses.
24. Click Pictures With Nilgiri Tahr:
Nilgiri Tahr are thickset goats with small, rough fur and stubbly curls. They are easily found in Kerala; mostly on hill stations. Silent by nature, you can click pictures with them and save for future generations as they are endangered to extinct.
25. Wake up Adventurist in you Go On a Trek:
With various hills and valleys, Kerala is also known to be a heaven for adventurists. You can plan a trekking trip with your friends here. The companies that run a business in this field too give a guide to explore the treks at their best.
26. Lay in the Sand on The Beaches:
Mostly all the beaches in Kerala are clean and comfortable for taking a sun-bath. Doing nothing and just laying on the sand under the bright sun would surely add to your Vitamin-D intake.
27. Learn The Art Of Making Coir:
Keralites are known for Coconut from inside out. They use the outer surface of coconut for making coir and thus using this coir for beautiful mats, wall-hangings, and other things. The process of making coir is usually executed outside the shops or in verandahs so that you can see.
28. Observe Unity In Diversity For Various Religions:
Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity are three main religions found here. The state people celebrate all the festivals with equal enthusiasm and zeal. The cultural practices taking place make Kerala the best place to stay thus.
29. Enjoy Water Sports At Various Beaches:

Many beaches in Kerala offer water sports like parasailing, scuba diving, surfing and snorkeling under trained coaches and safety measures. For those who cannot afford to fly abroad for water sports can try them here.
30. Crossing The Coconut Trunk Bridges:
One among the exciting things to do is passing the coconut trunk bridge. You must have crossed various bridges at many places build of cement and wood. These coconut trunk bridges at multiple locations in Kerala are entirely different.
31. Try Your Hands At Fishing On Chinese Fishing Nets:

These fishing nets are motionless land fittings for fishing. For people in Kerala, it is the way through which they earn their livelihood. Thus, you can experience the fishing adventure as well.
32. Thekkady – Take A Spice Tour

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Thekkady is renowned for its spices. Here you can tour spice plantations and learn about the different spices grown in the region. You’ll also have the opportunity to buy fresh spices to take home with you. Thekkady is also home to some of India’s best wildlife sanctuaries, so be sure to take a safari while you’re in town!
33. Alleppey – Go for Shikara Rides

If you are thinking about the best things to do in Alleppey, you should know that a must-do activity in Alleppey is going for a Shikara ride. These are traditional wooden boats that are locally made. You can ride in the backwaters and get a close-up view of village life in Kerala. The best time to go for a ride is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not too hot. You can also take a sunset ride, which is very beautiful.
34. Famous Waterfalls in Kerala:
Kerala is blessed with some spectacular waterfalls. Here are just a few of the most famous ones:

- Athirapally Falls: Located in the Chalakudy River, Athirapally Falls are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala. It is about 80 feet high and offers a breathtaking view. Visitors can also enjoy various activities in the surrounding area, such as trekking and bird watching.
- Vazhachal Falls: Located just 5 kilometers from Athirapally Falls, Vazhachal falls are smaller than Athirapally, but they offer a more intimate experience. Visitors can explore the surrounding forest area or take a dip in the refreshing waters.
- Cheeyappara Falls: Located between Neriamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi-Madurai Highway, Cheeyappara falls offer stunning views of the Western Ghats. Visitors can hike to the top of the falls or take a stroll through the nearby Tea Plantations.
These are just a few of the many waterfalls found in Kerala. So if you’re looking for a breathtaking natural destination, be sure to add Kerala to your list!
35. Periyar National Park, Thekkady:

Periyar National Park, located in Thekkady, is one of India’s most popular national parks. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and sambar deer. Visitors can take jeep safaris or boat rides through the park to see wildlife in its natural habitat. Periyar National Park is also a popular trekking destination, with several trails winding through the park’s forests and mountains. The park’s scenic beauty and abundant wildlife make it an ideal spot for a wildlife vacation.
36. Elephant Ride:

If you want to feel like royalty, take an elephant ride in Kerala. It is not only a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but also a great way to see the sights. While you’re up high on your majestic elephant, you’ll have a front-row seat to the vibrant culture and stunning scenery of Kerala. From the moment you mount your elephant until the time you dismount, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds and smells of nature. So, next time you’re in Kerala, be sure to take an elephant ride!
Best Time to Visit Kerala:
Knowing the best time to visit Kerala helps travelers enjoy activities in the best way.
| Season | Months | Travel Experience |
| Winter | October – March | Best weather for sightseeing, beaches and houseboats |
| Summer | April – June | Good for hill stations like Munnar |
| Monsoon | July – September | Best time for Ayurveda treatments and waterfalls |
Most tourists prefer visiting Kerala between October and March because the weather is cool and pleasant.
Suggested Kerala Travel Itinerary (7 Days Plan):
Many travelers ask how to plan their Kerala trip. Here is a simple travel plan:
- Day 1: Arrival in Kochi – Explore Fort Kochi and Marine Drive
- Day 2: Travel to Munnar – Enjoy waterfalls and tea plantations
- Day 3: Munnar sightseeing – Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Gardens
- Day 4: Travel to Thekkady – Spice plantations and cultural shows
- Day 5: Travel to Alleppey – Houseboat stay in backwaters
- Day 6: Travel to Kovalam – Relax on beaches
- Day 7: Visit Trivandrum – Departure
This itinerary allows travelers to experience hills, wildlife, backwaters and beaches in one trip.
Responsible Tourism in Kerala:
Kerala promotes eco-friendly tourism. Travelers should support responsible travel practices.
You can help by:
- Avoiding plastic waste
- Respecting local traditions
- Supporting local handicrafts
- Staying in eco-friendly resorts
- Protecting wildlife and forests
Responsible tourism helps keep Kerala beautiful for future travelers.
Conclusion:
Through above mentioned 36 things, the writer has tried to sum up the Kerala trip. Though, you may miss many of them if your Kerala tour package is not made wisely. Thus, to avoid losing them chose your Kerala Tour Operator intelligently.
FAQs:
Some of the best things to do in Kerala include enjoying a houseboat ride in Alleppey, visiting tea gardens in Munnar, relaxing on Kovalam beaches, and exploring wildlife at Periyar National Park.
Kerala is called God’s Own Country because of its natural beauty, green landscapes, peaceful backwaters, waterfalls, beaches, and rich cultural traditions.
Alleppey and Kumarakom are the most famous places for Kerala houseboat cruises, where tourists can enjoy peaceful backwaters and village life.
Kerala offers a perfect combination of beaches, hill stations, wildlife, backwaters, culture, and delicious food, making it a complete travel destination.
Yes, Kerala is perfect for family holidays because it offers nature, culture, wildlife parks, beaches, and relaxing backwater experiences.









