Kerala, a captivating tourist destination in India, has always been a popular choice among travelers. However, if you are seeking lesser-known places to explore, fear not! Kerala still has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These untouched locales offer an authentic and unique travel experience, ranging from pristine beaches to breathtaking mountain vistas.
Prepare yourself to uncover the top 14 offbeat destinations in God’s Own Country. Each of these places possesses a captivating charm that will capture the hearts of those who yearn to veer off the beaten path. Take note of these extraordinary places and choose the best one suited to your taste.
Discover the Enchanting Offbeat Places in Kerala
Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by these hidden wonders, showcasing the true essence of Kerala:
- Edakkal Caves, Wayanad – Where History Comes Alive
- Kappil Beach, Varkala – The Perfect Fusion of Beaches and Backwaters
- Gavi, Periyar – An Emerald Paradise of Abundant Flora and Fauna
- Vagamon, Idukki – A Picturesque Haven Nestled Amidst Hills
- Muzhappilangad Beach, Kannur – A Scenic Drive-In Beach
- Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam – Embrace the Splendor of the Backwaters
- Kolukkumalai Estate, Idukki – Home to the World’s Highest Tea Estate
- Soochipara Waterfalls, Wayanad – Pristine Marvels in the Lap of Nature
- Neeliyar Kottam, Kannur – Witness the Best Theyyam Performances
- Agasthyarkoodam, Trivandrum – Embark on Legendary Treks in Kerala
- Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom – Dive into the Serenity of the Longest Lake
- Chembra Peak, Wayanad – Nature’s Splendor at Its Peak
- Silent Valley National Park, Palakkad – Rediscover Tranquility
- Nelliyampathy, Palakkad – Surrender to a Spellbinding Affair
1. Edakkal Caves, Wayanad – Where History Comes Alive
Just imagine trekking up a cliff that offers a breathtaking view of the majestic Western Ghats. And what if, nestled within this cliff, you discover a cave adorned with ancient carvings dating back 8,000 years? Well, this remarkable experience awaits you at one of Kerala’s finest offbeat destinations – the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad. These caves are more than just rock shelters; they are a living testament to the Stone Age, with carvings that date back to 6,000 B.C. As you ascend from the base to the cliff, weaving through rocky pathways, you’ll be rewarded with a mesmerizing panoramic vista. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
How to reach: The caves are situated in the Nenmeni area of Wayanad district, approximately 25 KM from Kalpetta, the district headquarters. The nearest railway station and airport are located in Kozhikode (Calicut), which is about 95 KM away.
Remember, Kerala has more to offer than meets the eye. Venture off the beaten path and let these offbeat destinations unravel the essence of this magnificent state.
Optimal timing for a visit: All year round
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2. Kappil Beach, Varkala – A Fusion of Beaches and Backwaters
Photographic Inspiration
Embracing the scenic shoreline on one side and the captivating backwaters adorned with coconut trees on the other, journey through the undulating road of Kappil. This hidden gem in Kerala is a paradise waiting to be explored, constantly overshadowed by its renowned neighbor, Varkala. Undisturbed by long stretches of untouched beaches, Kappil Beach offers breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea. The Edava Narayana Lake, situated on the opposing side, plays host to a magnificent variety of avian inhabitants. Opt for a scenic drive or rent a bike from Varkala to embark on the best way to reach Kappil.
Directions: Located near the village of Kappil, approximately 7 KM away from Varkala, the beach boasts its own railway station. The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram.
Peak season: November to February, post-monsoon
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3. Gavi, Periyar – A Verdant Paradise for Botanical and Faunal Wonders
Photographic Insight
Gavi stands as a testament to an idyllic haven, a lush forested realm within the embrace of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, surrounding the mesmerizing Gavi Lake. The calm waters of this lake mirror the resplendent emerald shades that adorn the dense forest. The enchanting wilderness is home to over 260 species of avifauna and an abundance of wildlife. Bisons, elephants, lion-tailed macaques, and Malabar giant squirrels can be spotted roaming these lands. A true sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, Gavi remains one of the most unexplored destinations in Kerala.
Directions: Located approximately 40 KM from Kumily, which serves as the base for the Periyar Tiger Reserve, Gavi can be reached via the Kottayam railhead, situated 117 KM away. The nearest airport is the mesmerizing city of Kochi, located 172 KM from Gavi.
Peak season: August to March
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4. Vagamon, Idukki – Captivating Hillside Escapades
Original Text:
If you are looking for hill stations free of crowds then Vagamon is one of the best unknown places in Kerala that is perfect for you! Located in the Idukki district, it is often nicknamed the ‘Scotland of Asia’. The moniker refers to the rolling meadows high up in the mountains that are ideal for paragliding, which is becoming popular in Vagamon in recent times. Untouched by the commercialization of the nearby town, Munnar, Vagamon still offers a tranquil experience to visitors.
How to get there: The nearest railhead is Kottayam about 63 KM away and Kochi is the nearest airport 105 KM away.
Best time to visit: February and March are ideal for paragliding
5. Muzhappilangad Beach, Kannur – Scenic Drive-In Beach
Muzhappilangad Beach is a dream come true for anyone who loves driving. One of the longest drive-in beaches in the world, it is among the rare beaches in India where you can drive a car or a bike. That makes it one of the best road trip places in Kerala, especially in April when there is a vibrant beach festival that takes place here. The beach is not just perfect for beach stunts but is also a natural paradise where a lot of endangered birds can be sighted. The scenic beach makes for some perfect Instagram shots!
How to get there: The beach is about 15 KM away from Kannur which also has a railway station. The nearest airport is at Kozhikode about 90 KM away from Kannur.
Best time to visit: August to March
Planning your holiday in Kerala but confused about what to do? These Kerala travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
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Rephrased Text:
If you are seeking mountain retreats far from the bustling masses, then Vagamon is a hidden gem in Kerala that will satisfy your desires. Situated in the Idukki district, it is often referred to as the ‘Asia’s Scotland’. This moniker is a tribute to the undulating pastures perched high in the mountains, which have recently gained popularity for paragliding activities. Unlike the commercialized neighboring town of Munnar, Vagamon still offers a serene experience to its visitors.
How to reach: The closest railway station is Kottayam, approximately 63 KM away, while the nearest airport is Kochi, about 105 KM away.
Best time to visit: February and March offer the ideal conditions for paragliding.
5. Muzhappilangad Beach, Kannur – Majestic Drive-In Beach
For those who revel in the pleasure of driving, Muzhappilangad Beach is a vision come true. It is one of the longest drive-in beaches globally and ranks among the rare coastal paradises in India where cars and motorcycles can cruise along the shore. This makes it an extraordinary destination for road trips in Kerala, particularly during April when it hosts a vibrant beach festival. Apart from its appeal for beach stunts, this beach also serves as a natural haven where numerous endangered bird species can be spotted. Its breathtaking landscape offers the perfect backdrop for stunning Instagram photographs!
How to reach: The beach is situated approximately 15 KM from Kannur, which is also home to a railway station. The nearest airport is Kozhikode, about 90 KM away from Kannur.
Best time to visit: August to March
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6. The Mesmerizing Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam
While Kumarakom and Alleppey are famous for the renowned Kerala backwaters, there is a hidden gem just a short distance away – Ashtamudi Lake. This stunning lake, with its eight branching waterways, is considered one of the most incredible and less explored places in Kerala. It is a haven for diverse bird species and is even designated as a protected reserve for these majestic creatures. To truly immerse yourself in its beauty, embark on a traditional Kerala boat ride and let the serene ambiance envelop you.
How to Reach: The nearest railhead is located in Kollam, approximately 11 KM away, and the closest airport is Thiruvananthapuram, around 70 KM away.
Optimal Time to Visit: August to October
For Further Reading: Exploring the Heritage: Unveiling 25 Famous Temples in Kerala
7. Kolukkumalai Estate, Idukki – A Tea Wonderland at the Top of the World
If you are an avid traveler who craves venturing to the highest destinations on earth, then Kolukkumalai should definitely be on your list. Situated at a breathtaking altitude of 7,900 feet, Kolukkumalai Estate proudly claims the title of the highest tea estate worldwide. With a working tea factory that has been in operation since the 1900s, this estate offers not only panoramic vistas of the Nilgiris but also a haven for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the thrilling jeep ride to the tea estate adds an element of excitement, ensuring that Kolukkumalai remains one of the most unexplored and captivating places in Kerala.
How to Arrive: Take a jeep from the town of Suryanelli, which is approximately 23 KM away from Munnar. The closest railhead to Munnar can be found in Aluva, approximately 114 KM away, while the nearest airport is in Kochi, roughly 130 KM away.
Perfect Time to Explore: Throughout the year
For Further Reading: Embarking on the Road Less Traveled: Discovering 10 Phenomenal Places Near Kerala for an Unforgettable Road Trip
8. Marvelous Soochipara Waterfalls in Wayanad
Source of the Breathtaking Image
Prepare yourself for an overwhelming sense of joy as you witness the majestic Soochipara Falls! This stunning waterfall showcases the wonders of responsible tourism, as the entire area is completely free of plastic. Gone are the days of encountering stray water bottles or wrappers while mesmerized by the beauty of the falls. Located in a picturesque valley in Wayanad, Soochipara Falls remains one of the most underrated and pristine destinations in Kerala. To reach these cascading wonders, you must embark on a thrilling trek through hilly terrain surrounded by lush forests.
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Getting There: The waterfalls are approximately 23 kilometers away from Kalpetta, the administrative center of Wayanad. The closest railway station and airport are located 72 kilometers away in Kozhikode.
Optimal Time to Visit: December to May
9. Neeliyar Kottam, Kannur – An Exquisite Theyyam Showcase
To fully immerse yourself in one of the most profound and invigorating experiences of your life, plan a visit to Neeliyar Kottam around January 15th. It is during this time that the temple comes alive with the rhythmic beats of the ‘chenda’ drums and the vibrant Theyyam performance. Theyyam is a religious expression in North Kerala where devotees embellish themselves in intricate costumes to honor the deities. The Neeliyar Kottam temple is dedicated to the legend of Bhagavathy, making it one of the finest hidden gems in Kerala to witness a distinctive cultural event.
Getting There: The temple is situated in Mangattuparamba, approximately 15 kilometers away from Kannur, which also happens to have a railway station. The nearest airport is located about 92 kilometers away in Kozhikode.
Optimal Time to Visit: During the temple festival, which usually takes place in the third week of January.
10. Agasthyarkoodam, Trivandrum – Mythical Trails of Kerala
Embarking on a trek is undeniably the most exceptional way to explore the less crowded destinations in Kerala. Among the top treks in the region is the Agasthyarkoodam trek, which culminates at the peak of Agasthyamalai. Legend has it that Sage Agasthya meditated atop this mountain, and once you witness the stunning vistas from the summit, you’ll understand why. The trek covers a distance of approximately 28 kilometers and can ideally be completed over a weekend. Agasthyarkoodam is truly one of the unconventional spots in Kerala to savor its allure.
Getting There: The trek commences from Bonacaud, around 53 kilometers away from Thiruvananthapuram, which has both a railway station and an airport.
Optimal Time to Visit: November to April. Trekkers should avoid the monsoon season.
11. Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom – The Unparalleled Wonder
Vinayaraj for Wikimedia Commons Vembanad Lake, situated in Kumarakom, is a hidden treasure of Kerala. This untouched and unexplored location, nestled in the lap of God’s own country, boasts pristine green waters filled with algae. It is India’s longest lake and serves as a major source of surface water. The lake is divided into fresh water and brackish water sections by a saltwater barrier that prevents the intrusion of seawater.
How to reach: The nearest railway station to Vembanad Lake is Kottayam, which is just 13 kilometers away.
Best time to visit: September to March
12. Chembra Peak, Wayanad – Nature’s Marvel
Karkiabhijeet for Wikimedia Commons Chembra Peak, located in Wayanad, is a magnet for nature and adventure enthusiasts visiting Kerala. Standing as the highest peak south of the Himalayas, it captivates with its indescribable beauty. At an elevation of 2100 meters above sea level, Chembra Peak offers thrilling trekking and hiking opportunities. However, prior permission must be obtained from the Meppadi forest office before embarking on the expedition. Along the way, you will encounter a heart-shaped lake called ‘hridaya thadakam,’ which never dries up.
How to reach: The nearest railhead to Chembra Peak Base Camp is Kozhikode, which is 79 kilometers away. State buses and cabs are the best modes of transport to reach the base camp.
Best time to visit: September to March
13. Silent Valley National Park, Palakkad – Tranquility Defined
Jaseem Hamza for Wikimedia Commons Silent Valley National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an exceptional attraction in Kerala. Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, this hidden gem is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to the endangered lion-tailed macaque and boasts diverse species of birds, insects, and mammals. The park also showcases several thousand species of flora, including unique plants like orchids, ferns, lichens, liverworts, and algae indigenous to the Western Ghats.
How to reach: The entrance to Silent Valley Park is located 25 kilometers from Mukkali along a jeep road. Entrance tickets and a guide can be obtained from the office at Mukkali.
Best time to visit: December to April
14. Nelliyampathy, Palakkad – A Captivating Experience
wallpaperflare Nelliyampathy, situated in Palakkad, is renowned for its awe-inspiring cloud-kissed peaks at various elevations. The journey to Nelliyampathy is enchanting, with numerous viewpoints offering picturesque landscapes. Along the way, you can explore bio farming spots, visit farms, and witness vast tea estates. The Nelliyampathy hills are also famous for their orange cultivation.
How to reach: The nearest railway station to Nelliyampathy is Palakkad, located approximately 60 kilometers away.
Best time to visit: September to February
We are filled with an insatiable desire to wander after reading this list! Don’t wait any longer. Book your Kerala trip right away and make sure to include these offbeat places in your itinerary for a unique travel experience!
Disclaimer: Fred and Fuzzys gives credit to the original owners of the images featured on our blog site, unless stated otherwise. All visual content is copyrighted by their respective owners. We strive to provide proper attribution to the original author, artist, or photographer whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images and wish for them to be removed from Fred and Fuzzys, please contact us, and we will promptly take action. We believe in giving proper credit to the original creators.
Note: Any information published by Fred and Fuzzys in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. It is important to consult a professional medical expert of your choice before taking any action based on the information provided.
{IMG11}www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDQKXv4db-U
Common Questions About Offbeat Places In Kerala
Which place is considered the most exquisite in Kerala?
Munnar is considered the most exquisite place in Kerala. It is one of the top honeymoon destinations in India, renowned for its thriving backwater tourism industry and scenic attractions.
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Getting There: The waterfalls are approximately 23 kilometers away from Kalpetta, the administrative center of Wayanad. The closest railway station and airport are located 72 kilometers away in Kozhikode.
Optimal Time to Visit: December to May
9. Neeliyar Kottam, Kannur – An Exquisite Theyyam Showcase
To fully immerse yourself in one of the most profound and invigorating experiences of your life, plan a visit to Neeliyar Kottam around January 15th. It is during this time that the temple comes alive with the rhythmic beats of the ‘chenda’ drums and the vibrant Theyyam performance. Theyyam is a religious expression in North Kerala where devotees embellish themselves in intricate costumes to honor the deities. The Neeliyar Kottam temple is dedicated to the legend of Bhagavathy, making it one of the finest hidden gems in Kerala to witness a distinctive cultural event.
Getting There: The temple is situated in Mangattuparamba, approximately 15 kilometers away from Kannur, which also happens to have a railway station. The nearest airport is located about 92 kilometers away in Kozhikode.
Optimal Time to Visit: During the temple festival, which usually takes place in the third week of January.
10. Agasthyarkoodam, Trivandrum – Mythical Trails of Kerala
Embarking on a trek is undeniably the most exceptional way to explore the less crowded destinations in Kerala. Among the top treks in the region is the Agasthyarkoodam trek, which culminates at the peak of Agasthyamalai. Legend has it that Sage Agasthya meditated atop this mountain, and once you witness the stunning vistas from the summit, you’ll understand why. The trek covers a distance of approximately 28 kilometers and can ideally be completed over a weekend. Agasthyarkoodam is truly one of the unconventional spots in Kerala to savor its allure.
Getting There: The trek commences from Bonacaud, around 53 kilometers away from Thiruvananthapuram, which has both a railway station and an airport.
Optimal Time to Visit: November to April. Trekkers should avoid the monsoon season.
11. Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom – The Unparalleled Wonder
Vinayaraj for Wikimedia Commons Vembanad Lake, situated in Kumarakom, is a hidden treasure of Kerala. This untouched and unexplored location, nestled in the lap of God’s own country, boasts pristine green waters filled with algae. It is India’s longest lake and serves as a major source of surface water. The lake is divided into fresh water and brackish water sections by a saltwater barrier that prevents the intrusion of seawater.
How to reach: The nearest railway station to Vembanad Lake is Kottayam, which is just 13 kilometers away.
Best time to visit: September to March
12. Chembra Peak, Wayanad – Nature’s Marvel
Karkiabhijeet for Wikimedia Commons Chembra Peak, located in Wayanad, is a magnet for nature and adventure enthusiasts visiting Kerala. Standing as the highest peak south of the Himalayas, it captivates with its indescribable beauty. At an elevation of 2100 meters above sea level, Chembra Peak offers thrilling trekking and hiking opportunities. However, prior permission must be obtained from the Meppadi forest office before embarking on the expedition. Along the way, you will encounter a heart-shaped lake called ‘hridaya thadakam,’ which never dries up.
How to reach: The nearest railhead to Chembra Peak Base Camp is Kozhikode, which is 79 kilometers away. State buses and cabs are the best modes of transport to reach the base camp.
Best time to visit: September to March
13. Silent Valley National Park, Palakkad – Tranquility Defined
Jaseem Hamza for Wikimedia Commons Silent Valley National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an exceptional attraction in Kerala. Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, this hidden gem is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to the endangered lion-tailed macaque and boasts diverse species of birds, insects, and mammals. The park also showcases several thousand species of flora, including unique plants like orchids, ferns, lichens, liverworts, and algae indigenous to the Western Ghats.
How to reach: The entrance to Silent Valley Park is located 25 kilometers from Mukkali along a jeep road. Entrance tickets and a guide can be obtained from the office at Mukkali.
Best time to visit: December to April
14. Nelliyampathy, Palakkad – A Captivating Experience
wallpaperflare Nelliyampathy, situated in Palakkad, is renowned for its awe-inspiring cloud-kissed peaks at various elevations. The journey to Nelliyampathy is enchanting, with numerous viewpoints offering picturesque landscapes. Along the way, you can explore bio farming spots, visit farms, and witness vast tea estates. The Nelliyampathy hills are also famous for their orange cultivation.
How to reach: The nearest railway station to Nelliyampathy is Palakkad, located approximately 60 kilometers away.
Best time to visit: September to February
We are filled with an insatiable desire to wander after reading this list! Don’t wait any longer. Book your Kerala trip right away and make sure to include these offbeat places in your itinerary for a unique travel experience!
Disclaimer: Fred and Fuzzys gives credit to the original owners of the images featured on our blog site, unless stated otherwise. All visual content is copyrighted by their respective owners. We strive to provide proper attribution to the original author, artist, or photographer whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images and wish for them to be removed from Fred and Fuzzys, please contact us, and we will promptly take action. We believe in giving proper credit to the original creators.
Note: Any information published by Fred and Fuzzys in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. It is important to consult a professional medical expert of your choice before taking any action based on the information provided.
{IMG11}www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDQKXv4db-U
Common Questions About Offbeat Places In Kerala
Which place is considered the most exquisite in Kerala?
Munnar is considered the most exquisite place in Kerala. It is one of the top honeymoon destinations in India, renowned for its thriving backwater tourism industry and scenic attractions.
