15+ Best Things To Do In Kerala In 2024

From lively cultural festivals to quiet tea gardens, the places to visit in Kerala are as varied as the spices in a local curry. No matter what floats your boat (or houseboat, in this case), we’ve got the ultimate Kerala travel tips to ensure your journey is as smooth as the region’s famous banana leaf rice.

So, if you’re looking for Things To Do In Kerala that range from the exhilarating to the tranquil, you’re in for a treat. Whether it’s exploring the architectural marvels of Kochi or indulging in Ayurvedic treatments that’ll give your body the reset it’s been craving, we’ve got a list of Kerala things to do that will make your trip truly unforgettable. 

Best Things To Do In Kerala

1. Bathe Elephants

Trust us, this is one of those Kerala things to do that will make you want to trumpet in delight. And hey, who wouldn’t want a massive ‘bathtub buddy’? Plus, it’s an amazing way to cool down if you’ve had your fill of the sun-soaked beaches in Kerala.

Why To Do It?

Cultural Connection: Engage in a centuries-old tradition and understand the importance of elephants in Kerala’s local culture.

One-With-Nature: Feel the serene vibes as you connect with these magnificent creatures, all while being surrounded by Kerala’s lush greenery.

Insta-Worthy: This isn’t just another beach selfie; it’s a memory you’ll want to capture and share. Let’s just say, your social media will thank you.

Places To Do It

Kodanad

Guruvayur

Thekkady

2. Scuba Diving

You’ll meet vividly-colored fish, explore coral gardens, and maybe even spot a dolphin or two. It’s like entering a fantasy realm, where every moment brings something new and awe-inspiring.

Why To Do It?

Adventure: Break the monotony of daily life; delve deep to explore the unknown.

Beauty: Witness the stunning marine life and coral formations that you’ve only seen in documentaries.

Relaxation: Believe it or not, scuba diving is meditative. The world slows down, and it’s just you and the ocean.

Places To Do It

Kovalam

Varkala

Kochi

3. Watch The Neelkurinji Bloom

Why To Do It?

Rarity: If you miss it this time, you’re in for a long wait. It’s the botanical version of a solar eclipse!

Picture-Perfect: Your Instagram will thank you. The aesthetic vibes of these blooms are unmatched.

Feel the Magic: There’s something soul-stirring about seeing a hill transform into a lavender dreamscape. It’s one of those Things to Do in Kerala that’s not just sightseeing, it’s soul-seeing.

Where To Do It

Munnar

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4. Stay In A Houseboat

Imagine this: You’re drifting along tranquil backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery, as a chef cooks up a spicy, local feast just for you. As night falls, the water turns into a shimmering mirror of the stars above. Pure. Magic.

Why To Do It?

Ultimate Chill: Where else can you float your worries away while enjoying the comfort of a cosy bedroom?

Cultural Dive: Experience the local way of life—fishing villages, coir-making units, and yes, meals on banana leaves!

Bucket List Worthy: Let’s be honest, it’s not every day you get to sleep on a boat, right?

Places To Do It

Alleppey

Kumarakom

Kollam

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5. Watch A Snake Boat Race

The air buzzes with excitement; drums beat, people cheer, and oars cut through the water in perfect unison. It’s not just a race; it’s a pulsating spectacle, a dance of man and nature. You won’t want to blink!

Why To Do It?

Cultural Immersion: Become part of a centuries-old tradition that brings communities together.

Adrenaline Rush: Feel the excitement ripple through you as boats sprint toward the finish line.

Photo Ops: Capture the colour, energy, and spectacle in photos that’ll make your social feed sizzle.

Places To Do It

Alleppey

Kollam

Aranmula

6. Try Various Tea Flavours

But we’re not just talking about your regular Earl Grey here; we’re plunging into an assortment of flavours like cardamom-infused tea, spicy masala chai, and even zesty lemon tea. Trust us, your taste buds are in for the rollercoaster ride of a lifetime.

Why To Do It?

Flavour Explosion: From earthy to spicy, each tea captures the essence of Kerala in a cup.

Insta-Worthy: The scenic tea gardens provide the perfect backdrop for your Instagram snaps.

Cultural Immersion: Teas in Kerala have deep cultural roots, giving each sip a taste of tradition and history.

Places To Do It

Munnar

Wayanad

Thekkady

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7. Take A Spice Tour

Each step you take is like flipping through a living cookbook. Spice Tours in Kerala are your backstage pass to the world of flavours, offering you a chance to see where the magic ingredients in your kitchen actually come from!

Why To Do It? 

Awaken Senses: Let the variety of aromas stir your senses like never before.

Learning Adventure: Get educated about the farming and harvesting processes. Knowledge is spice, my friends!

Authentic Souvenirs: Skip the touristy trinkets and bring home fresh spices that’ll make your home cooking sing.

Places To Do It 

Thekkady

Wayanad

Munnar

8. Take A Jeep Safari In Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Why To Do It?

Wildlife Galore: From elusive leopards to playful monkeys, the sanctuary offers a parade of animals you’d normally only see on a National Geographic special.

Jungle Thrills: Nothing screams “adventure” more than navigating through dense tropical forests with only the sounds of wildlife to accompany you.

Insta-Worthy Moments: Get your cameras ready! The combination of wildlife, lush landscapes, and that “I’m on a safari” feeling is a social media jackpot.

Places To Do It

Periyar

9. Stay In A Treehouse

You’re in a treehouse in Kerala, the heart of India’s tropical paradise. From your wooden balcony, you can hear birds singing, and the rustling of leaves creates a soundscape of natural tranquility.  It’s like living in a fairy tale, except the Wi-Fi works! Plus, there’s a buffet of things to do in Kerala, right from your treetop retreat.

Why To Do It?

Unique Experience: Forget cookie-cutter hotels. Elevate your vacation—literally—by living atop a tree. How many can say they’ve done that?

Nature Connection: Being this close to nature is soul-soothing. Watch fireflies dance at night and greet the dawn chorus of birds at daybreak.

Local Flavour: Your treehouse isn’t just an accommodation; it’s a cultural gateway. Feast on local dishes and maybe learn to cook a Keralan meal!

Places To Do It

Munnar

Wayanad

10. Visit A Coffee Plantation

Oh, and the aroma! It’s as if the air is brewed to perfection. Picture this: you, wearing a straw hat, learning the ABCs of coffee making, from bean to brew. It’s like a backstage pass, but instead of rock stars, it’s coffee beans taking center stage!

Why To Do It?

Unplug & Recharge: Break free from the digital screen and connect with nature. It’s a recharge for your soul, and hey, there’s coffee!

Bean There, Do That: Know your coffee like you’ve never known it before. Meet the farmers, learn the grind, and brew your own cup.

Insta-Worthy: The lush green landscape is a free backdrop. You’ll have the coolest feed, giving even influencers a run for their money.

Places To Do It

Wayanad

Nelliyampathy

11. Visit Fort Kochi To Marvel At Architecture

Quaint shops spill over with antiques, and spicy aromas from local eateries flirt with your nose. Amidst all this, you can’t help but stumble upon Chinese fishing nets that are as much about culture as they are about catching fish. Trust us, this is one of the must try things to do in Kerala.

Why To Do It?

Instagram Haven: Fort Kochi’s unique blend of colonial and local architecture makes every nook and corner Instagram-worthy.

Cultural Buffet: Where else can you see Dutch, Portuguese, and Chinese influences all wrapped in the vivid colors of Kerala?

Tasty Detours: While you’re marveling at the buildings, don’t forget to snack on local favorites like “puttu” and “meen curry.”

Places To Do It

Jew Town

Princess Street

12. Bird Watching In Kumarakom

Imagine yourself in a canoe, gliding through calm backwaters, while vibrant kingfishers dash across the sky like living rainbows. It’s not just a feast for the eyes, but music for the soul as well. A must add to your list of “things to do in Kerala.”

Why To Do It?

Serenade for the Soul: Birds like the Siberian Stork or the Cuckoo offer a natural soundtrack that no Spotify playlist can beat.

Instagram Glory: Where else can you capture a parrot and a sunset in the same frame? Your followers will turn green… like a parakeet!

Nature’s Classroom: Ditch the TV and learn something new. Did you know the Indian Cormorant can dive underwater and swim like a fish?

Places To Do It

Kumarakoram

13. Watch Theyyam

Performers with intricate costumes and bold makeup tell ancient stories through their powerful dance and music. Flames flicker and drums beat, as the air fills with the energy of something ancient and sacred. It’s more than a show; it’s a transformative experience.

Why To Do It?

Cultural Immersion: This isn’t just entertainment; it’s a dive into the depths of Kerala’s traditions.

Visual Spectacle: The stunning makeup and costumes are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Spiritual Experience: Theyyam isn’t just a dance; it’s a ritual that connects you to the spiritual essence of the region.

Places To Do It

Kannur

Kasaragod

14. Swim At Varkala Beach

The moment you dive in, the salty waves embrace you like an old friend. You’ll feel the stress melt away as you swim through the sparkling ocean, leaving you rejuvenated and alive.

Why To Do It?

Relaxation: The calm and scenic backdrop is perfect for unwinding. Floating on the water lets you forget the world for a bit.

Adventure: For thrill-seekers, there’s more than just a swim. Try water sports like surfing and parasailing to get your heart pumping.

Culture: Experience a slice of local life. Fishermen with their nets and traditional boats add a unique charm to the setting.

Places To Do It

North Cliff

Papanasam Beach

15. Relish Bananas In Trivandrum

Whether they are fresh, fried as “Pazham Pori,” or transformed into delicious desserts, bananas are not just a fruit here; they’re a celebration. Tasting bananas in Trivandrum is one of the must-do things in Kerala and a symphony of flavors you can’t afford to miss.

Why To Do It?

Authentic Experience: Bananas are a staple in Kerala cuisine. Relishing them is among the must-do things in Kerala for an authentic culinary journey.

Variety: From the small, sweet “Palayankodan” to the long “Nendra Pazham,” the variety is endless.

Health Benefits: Rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamins, bananas are as nutritious as they are delicious.

Places To Do It

Local Markets

Street Vendors

16. Watch Sunset At Kovalam Beach

The coconut trees sway gently, framing this magical moment. Families, couples, and solo travelers gather to share this experience, making it one of the must-do things in Kerala.

Why To Do It?

Soul-Soothing: The tranquility and colors of the sunset have a calming effect on your mind and soul.

Romantic: Whether you’re on a honeymoon or just enjoying time with a loved one, it’s a romantic setting that nurtures connection.

Cultural Experience: Kovalam Beach is not just a beach; it’s a slice of Kerala’s unique coastal life, making the sunset watch one of the must-do things in Kerala.

Places To Do It

Lighthouse Beach

Hawa Beach

17. Take A Train Journey In Ernakulam

The coconut trees swaying in the wind, the fishermen casting their nets, and the distant temples provide an authentic Kerala experience. It’s an essential add-on to your list of must-do things in Kerala.

Why To Do It? 

Scenic Beauty: The journey offers some of the most beautiful views you can imagine, making it a visual treat.

Cultural Insight: Witness the local life, traditions, and customs from the comfort of your seat.

Affordable: Unlike other must-do things in Kerala, a train journey is budget-friendly, giving you a rich experience without burning a hole in your pocket.

Places To Do It 

Ernakulam Junction

Ernakulam Town

18. Watch A Kathakali Performance

The drums beat, and the performers move in a dance that tells a story older than time. This is Kathakali, a traditional art form that combines dance, drama, and music into an unforgettable experience. It’s one of those Kerala things to do that you just can’t miss.

Why To Do It?

Cultural Immersion: Kathakali offers a deep dive into the rich history and tradition of Kerala. You understand stories from Indian epics in a mesmerizing, non-verbal performance.

Visual Feast: The colorful costumes, intricate makeup, and expressive eyes of the artists are a spectacle. It’s like watching a live painting.

Unique Experience: It’s not just a performance but a soul-stirring event. Among all the Kerala things to do, this stands out as a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Places To Do It

Kochi

Thrissur

19. Engage In Kalaripayattu

Witnessing or learning this dance-like combat technique is an experience that showcases Kerala’s rich tradition in a whole new light.

Why To Do It?

Cultural Insight: Dive deep into the heart of Kerala’s history and culture by experiencing its oldest martial art.

Physical Fitness: Engage your body and mind with techniques that enhance agility, strength, and flexibility.

Unique Experience: It’s not every day that you get to see or practice a dance-like combat form, making it a distinctive addition to your ‘Kerala things to do’.

Places To Do It

Kozhikode

Thiruvananthapuram

Kannur

20. Indulge In Ayurveda Session

Why To Do It?

Holistic Healing: Ayurveda isn’t just about treating illnesses; it focuses on overall well-being.

Stress-Relief: This is your perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, a must-add to your list of things to do in Kerala.

Cultural Experience: Engage in an age-old tradition, learn about ancient techniques, and feel deeply connected to Kerala’s rich history.

Places To Do It

Kottayam

Alleppey

21. Paragliding In Vagamon

It’s one of the most thrilling things to do in Kerala that offers an unforgettable sky-high experience. The beauty of Vagamon’s rolling hills and the adrenaline of flying combine to offer a unique escapade you wouldn’t want to miss.

Why To Do It?

Thrill Factor: Feel the excitement and thrill as you glide through the sky, controlled yet free.

Scenic Beauty: Vagamon is not just about hills and tea gardens; from the sky, it’s a mesmerizing painting that comes to life.

Bucket List: Among the things to do in Kerala, paragliding in Vagamon is a must for that bucket list experience you’ll talk about for years.

Places To Do It

Vagamon

In conclusion, Kerala is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. From the tranquil backwaters to vibrant festivals, and not forgetting the sky-high thrill of paragliding in Vagamon, there’s something for everyone. Come explore the myriad things to do in Kerala and create memories that will last a lifetime.