Best Photography Spots in Kerala for Stunning Scenery

Kerala, also known as the “God’s Own Country,” is a paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. With its misty mountains, emerald backwaters, golden beaches, and rich cultural life, Kerala offers stunning visuals at every turn.

Whether you are a seasoned photographer or just starting out, knowing when, where, and how to capture the most stunning moments in the state can make your photos memorable masterpieces. 

This guide will walk you through the best Photography Spots in Kerala to click pictures of the diverse scenery of the state.

Top Photography Spots in Kerala

1. Golden Hour on the Backwaters

The backwaters of Kerala are magical, especially during sunrise or before sunset. This is when the light is soft and golden, which is perfect for taking calm and dreamy photos. You can travel to Alleppey or Kumarakom and rent a houseboat or take a canoe ride through narrow canals for more intimate frames.

Many travellers often include a backwater experience as part of their Kerala tours, making it one of the most memorable highlights of the state. The warm lighting creates beautiful reflections on the water and increases the beauty of the lush green surroundings.

Look for reflections, silhouettes, and the local fishermen going about their daily routine. You can also use a polarising filter to reduce glare on the water and bring out the natural colours.

2. Tea Plantations in Munnar

Rolling hills covered in green tea bushes make Munnar a dream destination for landscape photographers. Visit the place early in the morning when mist still hovers over the valleys, and you will get a soft and mysterious feel in your shots.

Many travellers explore these landscapes through Munnar tour packages, which often include visits to scenic viewpoints like Top Station or Kolukkumalai for wide-angle photos that capture the endless green layers. You can even use a drone (where permitted) to get an overhead shot of the patterned plantations for a striking geometric effect.

3. Life in the Local Markets

The local markets in Kerala are full of colour, energy, and life. If you love street photography, visit Broadway Market in Kochi or Convent Road Market in Ernakulam.

There, you will see busy shopkeepers, smiling faces, fresh fruits, spices, and handmade goods. Early mornings are the best time to take photos when sellers set up their shops and the light is soft.

The Alleppey Spice Market is another great place where you can capture heaps of cardamom, pepper, and cloves. From the chatter of sellers to the smell of fresh food, these markets will allow you to catch the essence of the real Kerala. 

4. Beaches of Varkala and Marari

Varkala and Marari are two of the most peaceful and beautiful beaches in Kerala. Known for its tall cliffs, golden sand, and clear blue sea, Varkala Beach is perfect for taking photos of people doing yoga, surfing, or watching the sunset. The nearby Janardhan Swamy Temple and Anjengo Fort also make for great photo spots.

If you are planning a Kerala honeymoon tour, both Varkala and Marari offer stunning backdrops that add a romantic touch to your memories. On the contrary, Marari Beach is quieter and perfect for calm sunrise shots. You can click fishermen at work, coconut trees swaying in the breeze, and locals going about their day on this beach.

5. Wildlife in Thekkady

If you love taking photos of animals, Thekkady is the perfect place to visit. It is home to the famous Periyar National Park, where you can see wild animals in their natural habitat.

You might spot elephants, deer, wild boars, bison, and even the rare Great Indian Tiger if you are lucky. The green forests, calm lake, and misty hills make every photo look magical. You can take a boat ride on Periyar Lake for a chance to see animals drinking water by the shore. 

6. Tranquil Waters of Astamundi Lake

Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam is one of the most tranquil places to take photos in Kerala. The calm backwaters, lined with coconut trees and small villages, make perfect reflections during sunrise and sunset.

You can take a boat cruise or relax in a houseboat while capturing the still beauty of the lake. Among the many things to do in Kerala, experiencing the charm of Ashtamudi Lake stands out for its peaceful surroundings and scenic views. Moreover, do not forget to photograph the Chinese fishing nets and the quiet life around the water.

The colours of the sky here during evening hours are simply magical. It is also a great place to try some ayurvedic spa treatments after a long photography day.

7. Paddy Fields in Kuttanad

Kuttanad is known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala” and is one of the best places to take photos of green paddy fields that lie below sea level.

This area has wide and flat lands, small canals, and narrow roads lined with palm trees. You can see farmers planting rice, ducks swimming in the water, and boats passing through the fields.

Places like Champakulam and Punnamada Lake offer peaceful views and a glimpse into local village life, which is ideal for nature and culture photography.

8. Forests and Waterfalls of Wayanad

Wayanad offers wonderful photo opportunities surrounded by green hilly areas. The forests here are thick and full of tall trees, wild animals, and birds.

You can take amazing pictures of waterfalls hidden deep in the woods, like Meenmutty Falls, Soochipara Falls, and Kanthanpara Falls. You can also walk through Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to capture pictures of elephants, deer, and monkeys.

The fresh air, flowing water, and deep green forests make Wayanad one of the best places in Kerala for nature photography.

9. Forts in Bekal

Bekal is a small town in Kerala known for its big and beautiful fort, called the Bekal Fort. It is located by the sea, so you can take great pictures of the waves crashing against the walls.

The fort has high towers, secret tunnels, and big stone steps that make your photos look grand and historic. From the top, you can capture views of the Arabian Sea, green trees, and nearby beaches.

You can also explore nearby places like Kappil Beach and Chandragiri Fort to catch history and nature in one frame.

Conclusion

Kerala is a dream destination for every photography lover. From peaceful backwaters and misty tea gardens to colourful markets and wild forests, each place has something special to offer.

Whether you are capturing the soft light over Ashtamudi Lake or the dramatic waves near Bekal Fort, the beauty of Kerala is always ready for your lens.

The only thing that you should keep in mind is to shoot during early morning or late evening when the light is soft and golden. With every click, you will be telling the story of this beautiful state in India.