Activities to Do in Kerala
Being a warm and tropical state on India's Malabar Coast and one of the country's most popular tourist destinations, Kerala offers a plethora of activities for the tourists and honeymooners. Kerala, like Bali and Tahiti, is an exquisite destination to unwind because of its distinct culture and incredibly scenic setting, which juxtapose with the fast-paced contemporary world.
If you get weary of your beachside nap, there's no shortage of options and activities to do. The scenic habitat there has a different kind of uniqueness to it. Well, Kerala has it all- whether it be seeing a classical Kathakali dance performance, exploring the backwaters on a houseboat, or spending an afternoon tea tasting. You can head out on a special spice tour to soak in the aroma of your favourite spices or else head into coffee estate to taste the authentic flavours of coffee. There's quite a lot to do and explore in God's own country and below are some of the best things to do while you're here!
Things to Do in Kerala
People Also Ask About Kerala Things To Do
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What are the best things to do in Kerala?
1. Stay in a Houseboat: Don't miss out on the opportunity to sail on a houseboat, which is one of the best things to do in Kerala. There are numerous things to do in a Kerala houseboat, such as gaze out the window at the lush green countryside and be served a freshly prepared lunch while travelling through the quiet backwaters, which is just as wonderful as it sounds. Breakfast, lunch, supper, and snacks are included on the boat for the entire family.
Location- Alleppey
Price- Prices vary from Rs 6500-11500
2. Take a Spice Tour: Spice plantations are one of nature's greatest gifts, boosting both India's GDP and tourism. If you truly want to learn more about India's spices, go for a tour through the extensive spice gardens of Kerala. Kerala is the greatest place to lose yourself in the intoxicating aromas of some of India's finest spices. You can purchase a few packets of your favourite spices to take home with you and use to enhance the flavour of your homemade meals. Kerala is the best spot to visit if you want to go on a spice tour. It is India's true spice capital.
Location- Munnar, Thekkady or Wayanad
Price- It costs only Rs 200 to enter the spice garden.
3. Exploring a coffee plantation: Wayanad is one of the most important regions in the country for robusta coffee cultivation, producing between 50,000 and 60,000 tonnes per year. The soil in Wayanad is exceptionally fertile, and the pleasant temperature is suitable to coffee and tea growth, thanks to the abundance of both sunlight and rainfall. One of the many attractions that the district has to offer travellers is a tour through the lush green coffee and tea farms, or a stay at one of them.
Location- Wayanad
Price- 5000/night
4. Watch A Theyyam Performance: A socio-religious ceremony, Theyyam is a colourful ritual dance from Kerala that places a high value on the worship of heroes and ancestral spirits. Every year, the Theyyam festival takes place between October and May. The vibrant splendour, ecstatic audience, and religious favour are all worth seeing. It was obligatory for every village in North Kerala to conduct it in connection with the local shrine (Kavu). Before the shrines, theyyams are performed. This sacred dance is thought to bring happiness to society and the family. Theyyam, also known as Kaliyattom, depicts divine forms as well as historical and mythological figures. Under the influence of the vast classical Indian heritage, the indigenous theyyam cult embraced new ideas and tales. It's a one-of-a-kind blend of dance music that also embodies the fundamental characteristics of tribal culture. Theyyam performances have a divine aspect to them, as they are accompanied by rituals and spiritual hymns. The holy power pulsating in the Theyyams during the performance is again linked to several dangerous feats achieved by them.
Location- Kochi Museum
5. Go Bird Watching: On a boat ride, look for rare migrating birds like egrets, herons, ducks, and Siberian cranes. You may easily arrive at the destination by bus or cab in around 3 hours from Kochi. The best time to visit is between November and February, when birds from all over the world travel back to the Northern Hemisphere after their migration season, pausing at this marshy haven for a rest.
Location- Kumarakom
6. Get Drenched in the Athirapally Falls: Athirappilly Falls is the largest waterfall in South India, located on the Chalakudy River in the Sholayar Reserve Forest in Kerala's Thrissur district. One of the many things to do in Kerala is visit the stunning, 80-foot-tall Athirapally Falls, dubbed the "Niagara Falls of India." From Kochi International Airport, which is 55 kilometres distant, the waterfall is easily accessible by bus or taxi. The falls are at their most beautiful during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September.
Location- Athirapally
7. Watch The Sunset In Kovalam Beach: One of the many activities to do in Kerala is to watch the beautiful sunset at Kovalam beach. It is one of the most gorgeous beaches in Kerala. You can choose to relax on the peaceful beaches of Kovalam as well as soak in the breathtaking views of the setting sun. Some of the most sought after places in Kovalam are Lighthouse beach, Hawah beach or Samudra beach.
Location- Kovalam Beach
8. Take a Bike Ride: The windy roads that wind up and down the hills of Kerala are especially enjoyable to ride on two wheels. In the tropical weather of Kerala, a bike ride down the roads of Kerala will re-energise your senses and deliver an immensely exciting experience. It's possibly one of the most incredible things to do in Kerala.
Location- Idukki
9. Watch A Kathakali Performance: Kathakali is a folk dance from India's southern state of Tamil Nadu. The dancers wear bright costumes and use postures and attitudes to represent old stories. If you've had your fill of touring, spend an exquisite evening attending a Kathakali show, which is one of the greatest things to do in Kerala, Varkala. This dance genre is thought to have originated as a result of a rivalry between two rulers.
Location- Varkala -
What are the adventure activities to do in Kerala?
1. Paragliding: The state is magnificent, but seeing it from a bird's eye perspective sounds even more thrilling. Even though there are just two hand-picked paragliding spots in Kerala, both may provide unforgettable experiences. This exhilarating adventure sport allows you to fly above tea gardens, meadows, grasslands, and shola forests, making your Kerala vacation worthwhile.
2. Trekking: Kerala is not just India's most popular tourist destination, but it is also a trekking and camping paradise. The state is unquestionably the appropriate spot for people who love to walk and camp, with beautiful tropical rainforests, picturesque countrysides, green hills, fragrant spice plantations, and luscious grasslands.
3. Camping: Popular tourist sites in Kerala include Idukki, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Munnar, Palakkad, and Trivandrum, which offer some of the best camping opportunities in the state. You will not only get to enjoy nature at its best but also gather a number of once in a lifetime experiences with your loved ones. -
What are the best water sports that I can enjoy in Kerala?
1. Kayaking: Kayaking is an exciting water adventure sport for people in Kerala that promises an enjoyable trip. A kayak journey allows you to see rich greenery, which can be pleasantly enjoyed. During your next trip to Kerala, try out this sport for a relaxing yet exhilarating experience.
2. Snorkelling: Snorkelling is one of Kochi's most daring pastimes. There are several canals and lagoons nearby, as well as an abandoned quarry with pooled water, which is a fantastic delight for water lovers. Explore a variety of underwater visibility while looking for colourful marine life including corals, sea urchins, and fish.
3. Scuba Diving: This activity allows water fans to see the best of coral reefs, as well as beautiful marine life and vivid aquatic critters. If you are visiting Kerala, you must experience the subtle beauty of scuba diving, which is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event. -
Which are the best destinations for a wildlife safari in Kerala?
1. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: This 643.66-square-kilometer area, located in the Chittur taluk of Palakkad district, is home to a diverse range of animals. Around 40 mammalian species, 47 fish species, and 250 bird species call this place home. They share their home with 124 different butterfly species and around 1000 different bug species. As the Bison and Spotted Deer make their way to open grazing land, the Terrapin perches on a piece of wood. Bush frogs and Mugger Crocodiles hide in their own territories, while egrets and cormorants make a racket. The squirrels make a warning shriek somewhere in the woodland.
2. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Kerala's twelve sanctuaries, all of which are located in protected areas. The sanctuary, which is surrounded by beautiful flora and wilderness, is a popular tourist destination in Munnar. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as you travel through Munnar's breathtaking scenery and into the Chinnar Sanctuary's wilds. With a Jeep Safari excursion, you'll get a chance to see exotic animals. Enjoy your day out as you come back home with a slew of unforgettable memories.
3. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Neyyar National Park is an excellent preserve for a vast diversity of animals, with roughly 40 mammal species, 176 types of birds, 40 fish species, 30 reptile species, and 17 amphibian species. The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located 32 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram, covers 12,000 acres of natural vegetation. It provides a rare opportunity to see flora and fauna, as well as several hiking choices. People enjoy climbing the 1868m Agasthyamala Peak, which is also a popular picnic location. The enthralling hills and flat meadows provide for a lovely picture, and the fascinating vista should not be missed at any cost. -
Which are the best places for camping in Kerala?
1. Anaerangal Camp: Anaerangal Camp is a lovely camping spot nestled in the Chinnakanal Mountains near Munnar. The camp has a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. It features a lot of cottage tents with modern amenities.
2. 17 C Camping Munnar: The famous Mattupetty Dam is adjacent to Camping Munnar. Guests can enjoy an incredible nature stroll through the tea farms at any time of day because the camp is just next to lush tea plantations. Early in the morning, though, is the finest time to take a stroll among the estates. The view of the Chokramudi hill from the campground is popular among visitors.
3. Thattekad Hornbill camp: The Hornbill Camp near Thattekad is one of Kerala's premier camping spots, with well-equipped tents and camps. If you want to spend your vacation in peace and quiet, this is the spot for you. The sensation of merging with nature is pure happiness. -
Where can I experience backwater stays in Kerala?
1. Vismaya: Vismaya is a small, intimate 400-year-old mansion located on an island amid a tropical coconut grove with a beautiful three-sided vista of the salty expanse of Lake Vembanad. There are just two bedrooms, both recently renovated to a high standard, with contemporary en suite outdoor bathrooms that allow guests to shower beneath a blue or starry sky.
2. Ameya: Ameya is a freshly constructed, French-owned eco-retreat with breathtaking 180-degree lake views. There are three big deluxe villas, two of which have their own wooden cabanas, with a serene atmosphere and a sensation of barefoot elegance.
3. The Oberoi Vrinda: The Oberoi Vrinda is a magnificent eight-room houseboat that provides the same five-star service that the Oberoi company is known for, along with tastefully appointed accommodations and panoramic views of the lake. A restaurant serving Indian and Continental cuisine, as well as a bar and a sun deck, are available. So, indulge in the luxury of Kerala's backwaters. -
What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The months of November to May are the busiest and finest for visiting Kerala. Winters and summers are considered to be the best times to visit Kerala because they are less crowded. The temperature remains moderate making it comfortable for you to indulge in a wide range of outdoor activities and sightseeing tours.
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What else is there to do in Kerala?
Other than the charming houseboats and unique eco tourism, Kerala is also famous for many adventurous activities such as Paragliding, Parasailing, Cycling and water activities such as Kayaking, Scuba Diving and Snorkelling.
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What should I wear in Kerala?
During the summer, light cotton or linen clothing is the best option for visiting Kerala in the summer. If you are visiting Kerala during monsoon season, you can wear a quick drying synthetic dress. You can also carry sunglasses and hats as well. You can put on open sandals and flip flops during your beach tours. -
How many days do you need to visit Kerala?
An optimal period of four days in Kerala would be great for exploring the best tourist attractions in the state. And, the duration of a pleasant family trip to Kerala can be extended to 8 days and 7 nights.
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What should I not miss in Kerala?
Kerala is known for its distinct landscape, calm backwaters, pristine beaches, art forms, and spices, among other things. It's also known for its lovely houseboats, extensive tea plantations, one-of-a-kind eco-tourism, spectacular craftsmanship, Ayurvedic treatments, and outstanding gastronomic experiences. You should make sure that you enjoy all these things during your visit.

- 5H
- Munnar

- 7H
- Munnar

- 5D/4N
- Kochi

- 14H
- Kochi
Kerala Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Kerala
One of the most spellbinding places to visit in Wayanad, Banasura Sagar Dam is a picturesque tourist hotspot. Known for being India’s largest earthen dam, it boasts of extensive natural beauty with beautiful flora and fauna, majestic hills and mesmerising waterfalls. The Banasura Sagar is a photographer’s delight and offers the most beautiful views from the top of the hill.It is also famous among adventure enthusiasts who look forward to thrilling activities like boating, trekking, horse racing and camel rides. For the avid trekkers, Banasura hill peak is hailed as one of the most challenging treks. Along with that Banasura Hill Resort adds to the charm of this place that is known as the only ‘earthen’ resort in the country.Location: Banasura Sagar Dam, Padinjarathara, KeralaBest Time to visit: November to May offers the most ideal time to visit Banasura Sagar DamEntry fee: INR 10/ USD 0.15 per personTimings: The opening timings are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pmDistance from Wayanad: It is just 2.3 kilometres away from the bus station.

Located in the middle of Kabini river, Kuruva Island is a natural paradise that is replete with diverse flora and fauna in the most beautiful surroundings. It is blessed with evergreen forests all around that makes it a mesmerising picnic spot away from all pollution and noise of the city.One of the most exciting things about Kuruva Island for tourists is their famous boat rides on bamboo rafts. Trekkers also visit Kuruva Island to explore the pristine environment and witness the most exotic species of plants, animals and birds here. The enthralling beauty of this island attracts many people who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of their lives and surround themselves in the serenity of nature.Location: Kuruvadweep, KeralaBest Time to visit: Kuruva Island could be visited from October to MayEntry fee: INR 80/ USD 1.23 for Indians and INR 150/USD 2.3 for foreignersTimings: The visiting hours are from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Mondays are holidayDistance from Wayanad: It is located 36 kilometres away.

If you wish to know how bamboo constitutes an important factor in both the lifestyle and livelihood for the people in Wayanad, then a visit to The Bamboo Factory comes highly recommended. This educating and inspiring experience gives a sneak peek into the lives of the locals in Uravu. This place is a great stop to witness the wonder of sustainable tourism and explore the ancient traditions that are still preserved in Wayanad.The Bamboo Factory stands for uplifting the lives of many rural craftsmen along with offering tourists a unique experience by getting to know how bamboo is converted into your favourite items. Tourists at Bamboo Factory also get a chance to talk to these talented craftsmen and know more from their experiences.Location: 100 Acres Road Thrikkaipatta, KeralaBest Time to visit: October to February is the best time to visit here.Entry fee: The cost to visit here is approximately INR 500/ USD 7.7 per personTimings: One can visit here between 10 am and 4 pm.Distance from Wayanad: The distance between the two places is around kilometres.
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