Vagamon, Marayoor, Gavi, Kakkathuruthu, Ponmudi, and Kumbalangi are some of the unique places to visit in Kerala. All of them are known for their natural beauty and serene atmosphere.
Vagamon offers misty meadows, Marayoor offers an untouched sandalwood forest, Gavi offers deep forest tranquillity, Kakkathuruth offers the beauty of tranquil backwaters, Ponmudi offers serene hilltop views, and Kumbalingi showcases the serene village life – each of these reflects the pristine and serene landscape of Kerala.
Why Kerala’s Hidden Gems Matter
Often celebrated as “God’s Own Country”, Kerala is known for its lush green landscapes, tranquil backwaters, and rich cultural heritage. While popular destinations like Munnar, Alleppey and Kochi attract travellers from all over the world, the true beauty of Kerala extends beyond these well-known destinations. The unusual, serene, and little-explored places scattered across the state showcase untouched landscapes, authentic local life, and a serene and more immersive travel experience. Not only a peaceful escape from the tourist heavy areas, but these hidden gems also reveal the raw beauty and diversity that truly make Kerala special.
Here, Travelbug India will introduce you to some of the most unique and unexplored places to visit in Kerala.
6 Unique Places to Visit in Kerala
1. Vagamon
Vagamon is a unique hill station known as the ”Scotland of Kerala”. It has a serene blend of misty meadows, dense pine forests, and a cool, serene atmosphere that is less commercialised than other hill stations in Kerala. It is also a rare example of religious harmony with important Christian, Hindu, and Muslim pilgrimage centres located on three major hills – Kurisumala, Thangal Para, and Murugan Kunnu.
Best Time to Visit Vagamon
The best time to visit Vagamon is from September to March. The weather is pleasantly cool and ideal for outdoor activities. The serene Pine Valley, the vast Vagamon meadows, and the thrilling paragliding viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the hills are Vagamon’s must-visit attractions.
Tips For Travellers
For a smooth journey, travellers should pack warm clothes, plan outdoor activities early in the morning to avoid the fog, and explore the nearby viewpoint for stunning sunrise and sunset views.
2. Marayoor
Marayoor in idukki district, about 40 km from Munnar, is a unique place in kerala for two main reasons. It is home to the states’s only natural sandal wood forest, and it is home to the ancient muniyara dolmens (megalithic burial chambers) dating back to the iron age. The cool climate, high altitude, and unique cultural history make this region unlike any other place in kerala.
Whats Makes Marayoor Special
Marayoor stands out as aliving archaelogical site and an ecological treasure trove. Wild sandwood trees growing naturally are a rare sight in india. Additionally the presence of hundreds of dolmens scattered across the landscape provides a clear link to an ancient civilization that once inhabited the western Ghats. The local community also produces the famous, chemical free, traditional jaggery that has a protected geographical indian tag.
Marayoor offers a fascinating combination of nature, archaeology, and local agriculture industry, making it a truly unique stop on any Kerala Itinery.
3. Gavi
Gavi has become a must visit destination in kerala, india. Gavi is considered one of the cleanest eco tourism destination in Kerala due to its forest, wildlife-rich landscapes, and the serene atmosphere within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Visitors can enjoy activities like forest safaris, bird watching, and scenic trekking trails. Gavi
The best time to visit Gavi is from October – March, when the climate is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.
4. Kakkathuruthu
Kakkathuruthu is a small island located on the Vembanad Lake near Alappuzha, famous for its serene backwater setting and magical sunsets. What make this island unique is its untouched charm – there are no big resorts, only coconut groves, narrow canals, and traditional village life. Visitors can enjoy canoe rides, interact with locals, and experience slow paced living at at its best. Its global global recognition came when national geographic featured Kakkathuruthu as one of the best places in the India to watch the sunset. This makes it a truly unique offbeat gem in Kerala’s backwaters.
5. Ponmudi
Ponmudi is a picturesque hill station located 55 Km from Trivandrum ( thiruvananthapuram), known for its golden hued hills, misty valleys, and cool mountain breezes. What makes ponmudi unique is its unspoiled natural beauty lush forest, vibrant butterflies, and twisting hairpin bends that offer spectacular views. Highlights include the iconic Agasthyakoodam Trek, breathtaking viewpoints, and the scenic Kallar River running through the region. With its calm ambiance and cloud covered peaks, Ponmudi is one of Kerala’s most unique and peaceful highland destinations.
6. Kumbalangi
Kumbalangi is a scenic island village located near Kochi in Ernakulam District, celebrated as india’s first “Model Tourism village” it offers an authentic glimpse into Keral’s rural life, making it different from any typical tourist spot. Visitors can experience crab farming, watch fishermen using traditional chinese fishing tourist spot. Visitors can experience Crab Farming, Watch fishermen using traditional Chinese Fishing Nets, enjoy gentle canoe rides, and stay in cozy backwater homestays. Kumbalingis carm lies in its simplicity, community driven tourism, and eco friendly lifestyle making it a unique cultural destination in kerala, india.
Conclusion
In this blog we explored some of the “Unique Places to Visit in Kerala” each offering its own blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, amd peaceful surroundings. From the misty meadows of vagamon to the ancient heritage of Marayoor, the deep forest of gavi, the sunset island of kakkathuruthu, the cloud kissed peaks of ponmudi, and the rustic village life of kumbalangi these hidden gems showcase a truly authentic side of Kerala. Visiting these offbeat destinations allows travellers to experience “God’s OWN Country” in a refreshing and memorable way.
For a smooth and personalised travel experience, Travelbug India can help you plan and explore these unique locations with ease. For travel assistance, you can reach Mr. Pratheesh Thomas (South India’s Experienced Tour Operator) at +91 9962579919 or email mail@travelbugindia.
How to Book a Guided Tour to Hidden Gems in Kerala online?
Booking a guided tour to kerala’s Hidden Germs is simple and hassle free with Travelbug india. They offer customised itineraries, expert local guides, comfortable transportation, andcomplete arrangemnets for all the unique places you wish to explore.
To book your guided tour, simply contact Mr. pratheesh Thomas at +91 9962579919 or email mail@travelbugindia.com He will help you plan the perfect trip to kerala’s most beautiful offbeat destinations.
