Top 10 Places to Visit in Kerala This Summer
Reported by Devapriya K J
Thrissur, 15th May 2025: Kerala, in summer, is a dream destination for many. But beyond the hot weather and summer heat, there’s a more refreshing and breezy side to explore – from dewy sunrise in the hill station of Munnar to gazing at the bioluminescent glow on a moonless evening in the backwaters of Kumbalangi. Summer in Kerala is not just a season but always captures the essence of Kerala mixing the natural beauty with culture. Here are 10 must-experience destinations and activities in Kerala this Summer:
ENJOY A HOUSEBOAT CRUISE
Kerala is known for its beautiful scenic backwaters, offering a unique traveling experience through houseboat cruises. The main backwater destinations are Alleppey and Kumarakom. Houseboats are one of the memorable ways to explore backwaters while immersing oneself in the tranquil beauty of Kerala. From luxury to budget-friendly options, houseboats differ according to one’s requirements, but exploring the traditional “Kettuvallam” is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It combines the true essence of Kerala with its cultural heritage. This is a key highlight of the Kerala trip, offering a calm retreat with scenic beauty.
TAKE REFRESHING DIP IN WATERFALLS
Waterfalls are considered as the hidden gems of Kerala – offering a blend of nature and rejuvenation. Some of the most famous are Athirappilly, Soochipara, Meenmutty, and Vazhachal. These waterfalls are not just tourist spots but a natural retreat that helps people beat the heat during the summer. It’s also a cultural belief among the locals that the cooling properties of the waterfalls will help people to heal faster which indeed is true during summer.
MUST VISIT COASTAL LINES
Kerala is a state with a vast coastline, truly making it a “God’s own country”. The stunning beaches of Kerala are Varkala, Cherai, and Kovalam. These are the perfect destinations for beach lovers, including fun activities like Scuba Diving, Jet Skiing, and Kayaking. Apart from fun activities, these beaches are the dream spot for people to escape from the summer heat and immerse themself in the restful evening.
EXPLORE THE SCENIC HILL DESTINATIONS
Kerala’s serenity is not just dotted by beautiful backwaters and coastlines, it’s also a land of mesmerizing hill stations. A trip to Kerala is always incomplete with hill destinations like Munnar, Thekkady, Wayanad, and Lakkidi. These are the perfect spots for nature and adventurous lovers, offering a thrilling experience from trekking inside the dense forest to hiking in the misty mountains. Places like Munnar also unveil a chance to explore the vast tea plantation between the misty hilltops making it a best summer retreat.
EXPLORE KERALA’S ART AND CULTURE
Kerala is known for its vibrant art forms and cultural heritage. If you are into history and ancient traditions don’t miss out on exploring Thrissur, Fort Kochi, and Mattancherry. These places are known for their cultural centers, colonial architecture, and sites. One of the famous cultural center is Kerala Kalamandalam, where you can experience the mix of vibrant art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Mural Paintings. These are the must-visit destinations for anyone looking for culture, color, and creativity on their journey because these experiences not only capture the state’s artistic spirit but also provide a strong connection to its ageless traditions.
EXPERIENCE THE STAR GAZING
Kerala’s summer nights are perfect for stargazing, especially in places like Vagamon, Munnar, Silent Valley, and Wayanad. It’s a captivating experience that connects human beings with nature. Kerala hill stations are known for their serene environment, making it the perfect tourist destination amidst the city chaos. Whether you are camping with friends or family, experiencing star gazing is a magical retreat that creates an unforgettable memory.
VISIT KERALA’S WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES
Kerala is not only known for its serenity but it’s also home to many wildlife sanctuaries. Early summer mornings are the best time for nature and wildlife lovers to explore the Kerala forests. Some of the famous wildlife sanctuaries are Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. These places are not only known for animal sightings but also include fun activities like bamboo rafting, staying in treehouses, and nature walks which is a peaceful escape from summer heat.
EXPLORE KERALA’S MAJESTIC AND HISTORIC PILGRIMAGE SITES
Kerala is a land of spiritual places with stunning natural surroundings. The state’s holy locations, which range from Guruvayur Temple to the historic Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, provide a window into its rich religious and cultural past. Kerala’s history of religious harmony is exemplified by the historic St. Francis Church in Kochi and the Cheraman Juma Masjid, which is thought to be India’s first mosque. These pilgrimage sites provide a spiritual haven amid Kerala’s colorful landscape.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE KERALA’S TASTY TREATS
Kerala isn’t just a treat for your eyes but also a true treat for your taste buds. Kerala has a very delightful cuisine with a mix of spices and traditional flavors. From Kerals traditional feast “Sadhya” to the variety of other dishes like “Appam & Stew” “Puttu & Kadala” and the must-try sea foods “Karimeen Pollichathu” and Prawns, making Kerala a paradise for every food lover.
DISCOVER THE ESSENCE OF AYURVEDA AND WELLNESS TREATMENT
Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, which is a globally recognized healing system. Many travelers, especially foreigners visit Kerala to experience this treatment and to rejuvenate themselves. Most of the resorts of Kerala offer ayurvedic wellness treatment, which includes detox therapy, yoga, and herbal treatments to restore emotional harmony.
