Kerala is a Beautiful Indian State offering rich experiences and Myriad Landscapes to the tourists who visit it every year. It is the place where the Startling Blue of Sky meets the Blue of Water surrounded by the Coconut Palms. The Hill Stations in Kerala are filled with the Expansive Tea and Coffee Plantations, Scenic Waterfalls, Lakes and Panoramic Hills making it a must-visit Destination for every Traveler.
The state is often called as “The Land of Scenic Beauty” and “The God’s Own Country” by the travelers. The National Geographic Traveler named it among the Top Ten Paradises of the world. No matter, you are on a Romantic Escapade or a Family outing; Kerala offers endless opportunities for a memorable and exciting trip.
1- Wayanad
- Highlights: Lush green spice plantations, mist-clad hills, wildlife sanctuary.
- Must-See: Thirunelli Temple, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Hill.
- Activities: Trekking, camping, wildlife watching, hiking.
- Best For: Adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and wildlife watchers.
- Best Time to Visit: October–May
- How to Reach: Calicut Airport (100 km), Kozhikode Railway Station (110 km)
Wayanad is one of the most beautiful Hill Stations in Kerala surrounded by the lush Green Spice Plantations. The tourist will get a chance to see the panorama of Undulating Mist Clad Hills and Dales. The hill station is blessed with the tropical forests, rolling slopes, and nature at its Best. Along with this, it is a perfect setting for Hundreds of Great Adventures like Camping, Trekking, Hiking and much more.
The maximum area of the hill station is covered by the forests having an Exotic Range of flora and Fauna. The main attraction here is Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary where you can get a chance to witness some of the Rare Species of Wild Animals like Tiger, Indian Bison and Indian Elephant.
2- Thekkady
- Highlights: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, boat cruises on Periyar Lake, serene environment.
- Must-See: Mangala Devi Temple, Gavi Forest, Spice Walk.
- Activities: Trekking, wildlife photography, camping, boating.
- Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
- Best Time to Visit: September–March
- How to Reach: Madurai Airport (140 km), Kottayam Railway Station (114 km)
Thekkady is an amazing Destination in Kerala offering a Perfect Environment to be relaxed and explore the Wild Part of the state. Without any doubt, the tourists can enjoy a Peaceful Vacation at Thekkady. You can enjoy a boat Cruise on the Periyar Lake or opt for Trekking between the Thekkady and Kurisumala. Along with this, there are many other places to enjoy a perfect vacation in this peaceful hill station.
3- Ponmudi
- Highlights: Tea estates, misty valleys, exotic butterflies.
- Must-See: Echo Point, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Golden Valley.
- Activities: Trekking, cycling, nature walks.
- Best For: Nature lovers and those seeking a quiet escape near Thiruvananthapuram.
- Best Time to Visit: September–May
- How to Reach: Trivandrum Airport (61 km), Trivandrum Railway Station (61 km)
Ponmudi is located at a Short Distance from the Thiruvananthapuram. While visiting this beautiful hill station, the tourists can explore Exotic Butterflies, Small Rivulets and a Beautiful Array of Mountain Flowers. Along with that, the Ponmudi offer great opportunities for the adventure lovers.
This famous hill station is surrounded by Spice Plantations, Natural Springs, Scenic Hills, Winding Streams, Mist Covered Valleys and Tea Estates.
4- Malampuzha
- Highlights: Family-friendly destination with ropeways, gardens, and parks.
- Must-See: Malampuzha Dam, Thread Garden, Snake Park.
- Activities: Boating, sightseeing, visiting amusement parks.
- Best For: Families with children, those looking for a leisurely day out.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Coimbatore Airport (55 km), Palakkad Railway Station (13 km)
Malampuzha is a wonderful hill station located in the district of Palakkad. If you are looking for a place to enjoy a Family Picnic in Kerala, then it is the best place for you. This place has it all right from the Ropeway to Fish Shaped Aquariums and Full-Filled Amusement Parks to Rock Gardens. It offers Entertainment Options for all the members of the family.
5- Munnar
- Highlights: Tea plantations, waterfalls, scenic trekking trails.
- Must-See: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Attukal Waterfalls.
- Activities: Nature walks, trekking, camping.
- Best For: Honeymooners, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Cochin Airport (110 km), Aluva Railway Station (108 km)
Munnar is famous with the name of “Natural Spa of Kerala” and situated at an elevation of 1,700m above the sea level. The hill station is situated at the confluence of Kundali, Nallathanni and Mudhirapuzha rivers and is one of the most Scenic Hill Stations in Kerala. The tourists will get the chance to explore the exceptional Shades of Greenery, Scenic Waterfalls, Wonderful Lakes and many Trekking Trails here. The Tea Plantation around the Hills of Munnar offers such a Breathtaking Setting that no other place in India Can.
Along with wonderful surroundings, there are lots of thrilling places around the hill station, which Enthrall the Visitors and make them feel extraordinary. If you are looking for a place to get relaxed and spend some Quality Time with your loved ones, Munnar is a must Visit Hill Station in Kerala. For the Wildlife Enthusiasts and Adventure lovers, Munnar has a lot to offer in the nearby Wildlife Sanctuaries. Munnar is also popular as one of the Best Honeymoon Destinations in India as the Natural Beauty and Astonishing Charm of this Place is beyond Exceptional.
6- Gavi
- Highlights: Hidden gem with rich wildlife, dense forests, and scenic beauty.
- Must-See: Gavi Lake, Spice Gardens, Sabarimala Temple.
- Activities: Wildlife watching, trekking, camping, boating.
- Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Best Time to Visit: November–March
- How to Reach: Cochin Airport (140 km), Kottayam Railway Station (45 km)
Gavi is one of the lesser known Hill stations in Kerala and gives their visitors a chance to explore wildlife at its best. This hill station is more beautiful, even more than your imagination as it is a Paradise for the Wildlife Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers. Along with exploring its beauty, the tourists can also enjoy many other activities such as Wildlife Watching, Camping, Jungle Safari, Trekking, and Boating. Gavi is one of the perfect destinations for the summer vacations in the Southern part of India.
7- Idukki
- Highlights: Dense forests, spice gardens, and serene hilltops.
- Must-See: Idukki Dam, Panchalimedu, Dreamland Spices Park.
- Activities: Trekking, plantation tours, wildlife photography.
- Best For: Adventure lovers, wildlife photographers, and those seeking peace in nature.
- Best Time to Visit: November–May
- How to Reach: Cochin Airport (100 km), Kottayam Railway Station (50 km)
Idukki is a spectacular hill station having 97% of its Area covered with the Forests and Mountains. The place is one of the Richest Expressions of Nature on Earth. This hill station is home to more than 10 different Peaks exceeding a height of 2,000 meters. The region is girded by the rivers of Thalayar, Thodupuzhayar and Periyar and their tributaries.
Idukki is known as the Spice Garden of Kerala and famous for the Elephant Rides, Gushing Streams, and Plantation Tours.
8- Silent Valley
- Highlights: UNESCO-declared biosphere reserve with rare species of flora and fauna.
- Must-See: Silent Valley National Park, Poochippara Peak.
- Activities: Wildlife safaris, trekking, birdwatching.
- Best For: Nature lovers and eco-tourism enthusiasts.
- How to Reach: Coimbatore Airport (50 km), Palakkad Railway Station (40 km)
Silent Valley is a well-preserved hill station and home to some of the rare kind and Kurumbar Tribes. The biggest attraction of this hill station is Silent Valley National Park, where the tourists will get a chance to explore 34 rare species of mammals.
The ideal time to visit the Hill stations in Kerala is from November to April, but it is better to visit Silent Valley in December or April.
9- Vythiri
- Highlights: Coffee, pepper, and rubber plantations in a tranquil setting.
- Must-See: Pookode Lake, Soochipara Falls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, plantation tours.
- Best For: Those seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destination.
- Best Time to Visit: October–May
- How to Reach: Calicut Airport (65 km), Kozhikode Railway Station (65 km)
Vythiri is a typical mixture of Peaceful Environs, Modern Amenities, and Old World Charm. It is a small hill station famous for its Plantations of Coffee, Rubber, Pepper, and Cardamom. The Evergreen Rain Forests of the Vythiri are home to a Great Variety of Wildlife. If you are a Bird Lover, you will get a chance to look at a wide variety of Migratory Birds.
This hill station is a perfect place for tourists who are looking to explore the breathtaking surroundings.
10- Vagamon
- Highlights: Rolling hills, meadows, and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Must-See: Vagamon Lake, Marmala Waterfalls, Illikkal Hills.
- Activities: Meditation, nature walks, sightseeing.
- Best For: Peace seekers and meditation enthusiasts.
- Best Time to Visit: September–March
- How to Reach: Cochin Airport (100 km), Kottayam Railway Station (60 km)
Vagamon is one of the popular Hill Stations in Kerala situated 1,200 m above the sea level. If you are looking to have some peace of mind in some less crowded area, then Vagamon is the place for you. This hill station is a perfect getaway far away from the confines of the bustling city environment and noises. The perfect location of the hill station gives the tourists opportunity to Practice some Meditation.
11- Nelliampathi
- Highlights: Cloud-kissed peaks, panoramic views, and a cool climate.
- Must-See: Pothundi Dam, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.
- Activities: Trekking, camping, wildlife watching.
- Best For: Adventure lovers and trekkers.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Coimbatore Airport (100 km), Palakkad Railway Station (53 km)
This is the place where the Sky Resonates with Hues of Red and Orange and the Sun Glows with its Last Feeble Rays. Nelliampathi is one of the most beautiful hill stations, which will leave some wonderful moments in your mind. The cloud caresses peaks makes a Hypnotizing and Elegant Atmosphere, which can’t get described in words. There are lots of panoramic serene spots for Voyage Buffs and Trekkers.
12- Peerumedu
- Highlights: Dense forests, spice and coffee plantations, serene landscapes.
- Must-See: Peeru Hills, Pattumala, Thrissanku Hills.
- Activities: Plantation tours, trekking, exploring ancient tribal cultures.
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts and culture explorers.
- Best Time to Visit: September–March
- How to Reach: Cochin Airport (150 km), Kottayam Railway Station (70 km)
The state of Kerala is known for its greenery and Peerumedu is a typical example of it. It is a small hill station, which features Sprawling Forests, Interspersed Spice and Coffee Plantations. During their visit, the tourists will get a great chance to witness the lifestyle of the Ancient Tribes of Kerala. It showcases the Green Shades of the state in a different manner to the people.
13- Painavu
- Highlights: Scenic beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and abundant wildlife.
- Must-See: Cheruthoni Dam, Idukki Hydro Electric Project.
- Activities: Trekking, camping, elephant watching.
- Best For: Adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Cochin Airport (95 km), Kottayam Railway Station (50 km)
Painavu is a popular hill station located inside the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a small hill station where the adventure lovers will enjoy visiting many dams. They can also Enjoy Cruises between the Kulamavu Dam and Cheruthoni Dam. The tourists may get the chance to spot the Leopards and Elephants if they visit it in the winter and Rainy Seasons. The Trekking and Camping at this spot are also the great options for the tourists. There are many private bus and taxi services available to reach the Painavu hill station.
14- Nilambur
- Highlights: Teak plantations, colonial-era architecture, lush forests.
- Must-See: Adyanpara Waterfalls, Teak Museum, Valamthode Waterfalls.
- Activities: Plantation tours, waterfall visits, jungle safaris.
- Best For: Plantation lovers and those interested in colonial history.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Calicut Airport (30 km), Nilambur Railway Station (4 km)
Nilambur is blessed with the Vibrant Shades of the Natural Beauty and enriched with the raw nature. It is a unique mixture of culture and shadows of the colonial rule. It is one of the unique Hill stations in Kerala covered under the vast tracks of forest. This beautiful hill station is nestled on the bank of the Chaliyar River and popularly known as “Land of Teak Plantations”.
The Rosewood, Mahogany, and Venteak are the popular types of woods, which flourish in this area and make a Beautiful Landscape.
15- Charalkunnu
- Highlights: Beautiful river views, tranquil environment, and waterfalls.
- Must-See: Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls, Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls.
- Activities: Trekking, cycling, nature walks.
- Best For: Adventure enthusiasts and those seeking scenic beauty.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Cochin Airport (110 km), Ernakulam Railway Station (95 km)
Charalkunnu is a scenic town known to offer Amazing Views of the Neighboring Valleys. The tourists can break the monotony and settle for some Quality Moments in this beautiful town. The visitors also have the choice of Trekking and Cycling their way around the town to discover the magic of nature. It feels amazing to view the famous shades of green covering the landscape, Wonderful Waterfalls, and the great River Pampa.
16- Thenmala
- Highlights: Honey-rich landscapes, diverse wildlife, and eco-tourism.
- Must-See: Thenmala Dam, Butterfly Safari Park.
- Activities: Butterfly safari, trekking, nature walks.
- Best For: Eco-tourists and families with children.
- Best Time to Visit: December–February
- How to Reach: Trivandrum Airport (66 km), Kollam Railway Station (20 km)
Thenmala is a small hill station located in the Foothills of the Western Ghats. This town is translated into the hill, which yields honey in the local language. The major attraction of this town is the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary spread over the area of 100 square km. The best months to visit this beautiful place are between the months of December and February.
17- Vithura
- Highlights: Rock climbing, tranquil surroundings, rubber plantations.
- Must-See: Meenmutty Falls, Agasthyakoodam, Peppara Dam.
- Activities: Rock climbing, hiking, sightseeing.
- Best For: Adventurers and rock climbing enthusiasts.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Trivandrum Airport (40 km), Trivandrum Railway Station (40 km)
Vithura is a perfect holiday destination where one will get a chance to explore the amazing landscape. The main factors which attract the visitors to this small hill station are its Soothing Climate and Tranquil Environment. It is one of the best places for Rock Climbing in the state of Kerala. The tourists can visit the Traditional Martial Arts School and the Rubber Plantation Estates.
18- Ranipuram
- Highlights: Eco-tourism, diverse wildlife, scenic trekking routes.
- Must-See: Ranipuram Hills.
- Activities: Trekking, camping, bird watching, jeep safaris.
- Best For: Eco-tourism lovers and adventure seekers.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- How to Reach: Mangalore Airport (130 km), Kanhangad Railway Station (22 km)
Ranipuram is a beautiful hill station popular for its Eco-Tourism. It is an Unexplored Destination having a Repository of the Diverse Wildlife and evergreen forests. The adventure lovers get a great opportunity for Trekking and Bird Watching in this beautiful place. The tourists can also opt to enjoy Jeep Safaris, where they might get the opportunity to see elephants. If you are looking to visit this hill station, then you are guaranteed to have a Fun-Filled Experience.
19- Malakkappara
- Highlights: Tea estates, serene natural beauty.
- Must-See: Tea Gardens, Vazhachal Forest.
- Activities: Nature walks, tea plantation tours, photography.
- Best For: Tea lovers and photography enthusiasts.
- Best Time to Visit: September–March
- How to Reach: Coimbatore Airport (60 km), Palakkad Railway Station (40 km)
This hill station is famous with the name of “The Tea Garden” due to the Abundance of Tea Estates founded here. It is one of those hill stations in Kerala, which is dotted with Small Streams and Scenic Natural Spots. The Photography Lovers will like the Malakkappara most as they can capture fabulous frames.
20- Devikulam
- Highlights: Tea plantations, peaceful environment.
- Must-See: Sita Devi Lake, Pallivasal Falls, Kanan Devan Hills.
- Activities: Hiking, sightseeing, photography.
- Best For: Nature lovers and those seeking a calm, scenic getaway.
- Best Time to Visit: September–March
- How to Reach: Cochin Airport (125 km), Aluva Railway Station (112 km)
Devikulam is a Charming Hill Station located at a distance of 18 Km from Munnar. The Tea Plantations around the hill station add charm to the town. There are lots of Lush Green Spaces, which offer a great scope for Mountaineering and Hiking. The other highlight of this beautiful hill station is the Gum Trees in Red and Blue colors.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, wildlife, or simply a serene escape, Kerala’s hill stations offer a rich diversity of landscapes and activities. Each destination has its own unique charm, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler.