City life can get hectic, boring, stressful, tiresome, and annoying. When you feel any or all of these, it’s time for a break! But where do you go when you only have a few days to spare? We suggest Kerala, especially during the monsoon season. Visiting Kerala with your family and kids can be a memorable affair during the rains. The state offers numerous family attractions, making it difficult to choose just a few destinations for your itinerary. These places will help you break free from your routine and recharge your batteries. Here’s our curated list of the best places to visit in Kerala during the monsoon season in 2024, complete with top attractions to explore. If you’re looking to explore stunning Kerala tourist spots, follow this article as your ultimate guide.
10 Best Places to Visit in Kerala During Rainy Season:
So, let’s check out the places to visit in Kerala that you must visit during rainy environment.
1. Munnar:
Munnar hill station is famous for its vast tea gardens, cloudy mountains, and calm environment. During the monsoon, the region becomes even more beautiful as the rains enhance the lovely plants and the waterfalls sing with force. Munnar is famous for its tea estates, Eravikulam National Park, and Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy tea garden tours, trek to Anamudi Peak, explore the Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and visit the many waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam. Monsoon also makes the hydel park and dams such as Mattupetty and Kundala look spectacular.
Timings: The best time to visit Munnar is from June to September to experience the monsoon magic.
2. Alleppey (Alappuzha):
Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East,” is famous for its complex network of backwaters and houseboat cruises. The monsoon season adds a divine charm to the backwaters, making it a perfect time to enjoy a beautiful houseboat stay among the rain-washed landscapes.
Activities: Houseboat cruises are the highlight, offering an opportunity to drift along the quiet backwaters, enjoying the beautiful field of paddy, coconut groves, and village life. Other activities include visiting the Alappuzha Beach, St. Mary’s Forane Church, and experiencing the local cuisine at floating restaurants.
Timings: Houseboat cruises are available throughout the day, with overnight stays being particularly popular. The best time to visit is during the monsoon from June to September.
3. Thekkady:
Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park, is a haven for wildlife lovers. The monsoon season breathes new life into the forests, making it an ideal time for a visit. The massive greenery and full-flowing Periyar Lake provide a perfect backdrop for exploring the rich biodiversity.
Activities: Jungle safaris, bamboo rafting, and boat cruises on Periyar Lake are popular activities. Visitors can also take guided nature walks and visit the spice plantations, which thrive during the monsoon.
Timings: The Periyar National Park is open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The best time to experience Thekkady’s monsoon charm is from June to September.
4. Wayanad:
Wayanad, with its dense forests, rolling hills, and vibrant wildlife, is a monsoon heaven. The rain-washed landscapes, mist-covered mountains, and flowing waterfalls make Wayanad a must-visit during the monsoon season.
Activities: Trekking to Chembra Peak, visiting the Edakkal Caves, exploring the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and enjoying the Meenmutty and Soochipara waterfalls are popular activities. The monsoon also enhances the beauty of the Banasura Sagar Dam.
Timings: Most attractions in Wayanad are open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The monsoon season from June to September is the best time to visit.
5. Kovalam:
Kovalam, with its circular-shaped beaches and calm waters, is a perfect monsoon destination for beach lovers. The rains add a dramatic effect to the coastline, making it a serene and picturesque escape.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in ayurvedic treatments at various resorts. The Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach are the main attractions. The monsoon season is also ideal for exploring the nearby Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium and the Vellayani Lake.
Timings: Beaches are accessible throughout the day. The best time to experience Kovalam’s monsoon charm is from June to September.
6. Athirappilly:
Athirappilly, known as the “Niagara of India,” is famous for its majestic waterfalls. The monsoon season increases the beauty and flow of Athirappilly Falls, making it a breathtaking sight.
Activities: Visitors can trek to the base of the falls, enjoy the scenic views, and explore the surrounding Sholayar forest. Nearby Vazhachal Falls and the gorgeous nature of Charpa Falls are also worth visiting during the monsoon.
Timings: The best time to visit Athirappilly is during the monsoon from June to September. The falls are accessible from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
7. Kumarakom:
Kumarakom is located on the banks of Vembanad Lake. It is famous for its backwaters and bird sanctuary. The monsoon season adds a calm charm to the backwaters making it an ideal destination for a peaceful retreat.
Activities: Houseboat cruises, bird watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and exploring the serene backwaters are popular activities. Visitors can also involve ayurvedic treatments and enjoy fresh seafood.
Timings: Houseboat cruises and bird sanctuary visits are best enjoyed during the monsoon from June to September. The bird sanctuary is open from 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
8. Varkala:
Varkala is known for its cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea. It offers a unique beach experience. The monsoon season highlights the beauty of Varkala Beach, making it a beautiful and scenic destination.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy the natural springs, beach walks, and exploring the nearby Janardhana Swamy Temple. The cliffside offers amazing views, especially during the monsoon. Ayurvedic spas and yoga centers are also popular.
Timings: Varkala Beach is accessible throughout the day. The best time to visit is from June to September to enjoy the monsoon climate.
9. Vagamon:
Vagamon is a hill station with bouncing fields and pine-covered hills. It becomes a green haven during the monsoon. The rains enhance the beauty of the hills, making it a serene retreat.
Activities: Trekking, paragliding, and visiting the Vagamon Pine Forest are popular activities. The monsoon also brings out the beauty of Vagamon Lake and the beautiful plants.
Timings: Vagamon can be visited throughout the day. The best time to experience its monsoon charm is from June to September.
10. Bekal:
Bekal, known for its historic Bekal Fort and clean beaches, is a gorgeous destination during the monsoon. The rains add a magical charm to the fort and the surrounding greenery.
Activities: Exploring Bekal Fort, enjoying the scenic views from the fort, and relaxing on Bekal Beach are popular activities. The monsoon also makes the nearby Nileshwar Backwaters and Valiyaparamba Backwaters more enchanting.
Timings: Bekal Fort is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The best time to visit Bekal is during the monsoon from June to September.
Why to Travel in Kerala in the Monsoon?
Ready to Dive into Kerala’s Monsoon Magic?
Visiting Kerala during the monsoon season is an lovely experience that showcases the state’s natural beauty at its finest. The beautiful nature refreshed by the rains, provide a quiet and gorgeous backdrop for unforgettable adventures. From the misty hill stations of Munnar and Wayanad to the quiet backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom, Kerala offers a wide range of destinations perfect for family outings. Welcome the monsoon magic, involve in the rich cultural heritage, & taste the local foods. A monsoon trip to Kerala promises not only a refreshing escape from the routine but also memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs:
June to September is the ideal time to experience Kerala’s monsoon.
Pack light rain gear, waterproof shoes, and quick-drying clothes.
Yes, houseboat cruises operate during the monsoon and offer a unique experience.
Yes, activities like trekking, wildlife safaris, and beach visits are enjoyable, but plan accordingly.
Munnar, Wayanad, and Vagamon are top hill stations to visit.
Yes, the waterfalls are at their most majestic during the monsoon season.
A houseboat or canoe ride is the best way to explore the backwaters.
Yes, many hotels and resorts offer special monsoon packages.
Try traditional Kerala dishes like appam, puttu, and seafood, which are especially comforting during the monsoon.
