15 Offbeat Places In Kerala: Explore The Unexplored

Whether you are a solo traveller seeking solitude or a nature enthusiast looking for an adventurous escapade, these offbeat destinations promise an authentic experience, unveiling Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.

These Kerala offbeat places redefine the traditional essence of holidaying in this southern paradise. Surrender yourself to the enchanting allure of Kerala’s lesser-known destinations – from the serene backwaters of Kuttanad to the rustic beauty of Silent Valley, each stop has its unique charm. 

Offbeat places in Kerala like Marayoor with its ancient dolmens or the tranquil Vagamon far away from the bustling cityscapes add another dimension to your travel diary. As you explore these Kerala offbeat places, immerse yourself in the tranquillity of untouched nature, the simplicity of rural life, and the rich tapestry of local culture.

Top 15 Offbeat Places In Kerala

1. Kumarakom Backwaters

Vivid wildlife, including diverse bird species, further accentuates its charm. The floating houseboats offer unforgettable experiences, making Kumarakom one of the best Kerala offbeat places for tourists seeking a tranquil escape into the heart of nature’s bounty.

This untouched biodiversity hotspot retains its virgin beauty, making it one of Kerala’s best offbeat destinations. It attests to Kerala’s verdant allure, a realm where nature’s serenity echoes. If you’re looking for an escape from every day, this mystical location provides an immersive experience of nature’s splendour. So, pack your bags and venture into the unknown.

3. Ashtamudi Lake

This unique backwater ecosystem is perfect for languid houseboat cruises, which meander through eight intertwining channels. Filled with numerous aquatic species, the lake contributes significantly to the local economy. 

Ashtamudi Lake is an unsung gem in Kerala, providing a tranquil setting that juxtaposes beautifully against the hum of the state’s more popular tourist destinations.

4. Nelliyampathy

Offering magnificent panoramic views of valleys, its ethereal charm makes it one of the offbeat places to visit in Kerala. With pleasant weather, rich biodiversity, and endless trekking trails, Nelliyampathy stands as an undiscovered gem, perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. 

So, if you wish to break away from typical tourist destinations, visit Nelliyampathy, a retreat where nature’s symphony awaits you.

5. Thiruvallam Backwaters

Boasting lush greenery, the area serves as an essential hub of biodiversity, sheltering a rich array of flora and fauna. From traditional houseboats to quaint country boats, the waterways bustle with activity, painting a picturesque tableau of local life and culture.

The quaint village of Thiruvallam provides an insight into the rustic charm of Kerala’s lifestyle. Exotic birds singing, fishermen casting their nets and the soothing lullaby of the rippling waters define the tranquillity of this paradise.

The Sree Parasurama Temple, a significant spiritual landmark on the backwater’s banks adds a sacred touch to the panoramic landscape. The temple more than 2000 years old, is a popular pilgrimage site where many rituals are performed especially for ancestors.

6. Muzhappilangad Beach

As the longest drive-in beach in Asia, Muzhappilangad Beach provides an incredible opportunity for driving along its 4 km long shoreline. Visitors can thrill their senses as they manoeuvre their vehicles, leaving trails on the wet sandy terrain, an experience unique to this destination.

What truly distinguishes Muzhappilangad Beach is its tranquil atmosphere, devoid of the typical tourist crowd. It thus offers an unspoilt and authentic coastal experience, with coconut groves swaying in the wind and the picturesque view of Dharmadam Island, situated just offshore.

As an offbeat place in Kerala, Muzhappilangad Beach extends beyond its serene beauty, offering a cultural immersion. One can relish local delicacies sold by small vendors, indulge in bird-watching or simply enjoy the sight of local fishermen hauling in their day’s catch. This beach unquestionably stands as an epitome of Kerala’s untouched beauty, waiting to be explored by intrepid travellers.

7. Marine Drive, Kochi

This charming location is more than just a scenic spot; it is a hub of shopping, eating, and cultural experiences. In the daytime, one can find the area buzzing with vendors and tourists exploring the local attractions or indulging in a traditional Kerala meal at one of the eateries. As night falls, the place turns into a serene haven with a mesmerizing view of the moonlit backwaters and twinkling city lights.

Being one of the offbeat places in Kerala Marine Drive is less frequented compared to other tourist destinations in the state, offering a peaceful getaway for travellers. Whether you prefer to take a relaxing walk along the water or want to explore the local culture and cuisine, Marine Drive, Kochi offers a unique blend of experiences that make it a must-visit place in Kerala.

8. Banasura Dam

Banasura Dam’s location is a blessing for nature enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities, from trekking to speed boating. The verdant greenery, misty hills, and expansive reservoir create a magical aura that enchants every traveller. Visiting the dam during monsoon paints an even more ethereal picture with the overflowing reservoir and surrounding greenery at their peak.

One of the many jewels that make Kerala ‘God’s own country’, the Banasura Dam underlines why these offbeat places in Kerala are must-visit locations for those seeking tranquillity away from bustling city life. 

It showcases a harmonious blend of nature’s grandeur, human ingenuity, and cultural mythology, embodying the quintessence of Kerala’s natural beauty and serenity. 

Its charm remains untouched by excessive commercialization, offering an authentic experience to its visitors.

9. Cherai Beach

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea on one side and a tranquil backwater on the other thanks to the beach’s unique geographic location at the northern end of Vypin Island. Every morning, the coast is alive with the cries of fishermen, their nets laden with fresh catch.

Cherai Beach is a haven for those seeking peace and rejuvenation away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, as it attracts a wide range of migratory birds throughout the year. Furthermore, the clear waters of Cherai Beach provide ideal conditions for swimming and sunbathing. The bioluminescent planktons cause the sea waves to sparkle in a surreal, phosphorescent blue at night, creating a mesmerising sight.

10. Ponmudi

Ponmudi’s captivating vistas entice visitors to explore its untouched landscapes. Wandering through the region’s tea gardens will reveal a plethora of endemic flora and fauna. It embodies the lush abundance of the Ghats, with rivulets, tropical forests, and an abundance of spice plantations.

Visit the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary to learn about local folklore, or climb the 22 hairpin curves to the hilltop, where each turn reveals a new panoramic view. The tranquil scenery is enhanced by the cooler climate, especially in the mornings.

Ponmudi will delight birdwatchers, as it is home to hundreds of avian species, making it an ornithologist’s dream. Their symphonies will echo through the hills, an aural testament to the region’s natural wealth.

11. Thommankuthu Falls

It offers an exotic vista that would please any nature lover, with a series of seven cascades rolling down rocky terrain, each forming its own unique pool. The seventh plunge, at a height of 40 meters, captures the might and beauty of nature at its best.

This waterfall is a spectacular slice of Kerala’s natural beauty and a sensory feast. A walk along the trail that runs parallel to the falls provides enthralling views of the cascades and the surrounding lush greenery. 

This makes it a popular destination for hikers and adventure seekers. Furthermore, bird watchers frequently flock to this biodiverse region, which is home to a diverse range of avian species.

Thommankuthu Falls, the epitome of untouched natural splendour, is one of the best offbeat places in Kerala that takes you off the beaten path and deep into nature. The falls’ rhythmic cascading against the melodious chirping of birds makes it a must-see destination for anyone looking for a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

12. Athirapally Falls

The magnificent Athirapally Falls are part of the Chalakudy River which flows from the upper reaches of the Western Ghats. The rich and diverse ecosystem surrounding the falls is home to many endangered and endemic species of flora and fauna. 

The journey to Athirapally is as enticing as the destination, with breathtaking views of the Sholayar hills and the lush greenery of the rainforest.

Monsoons lend an extra charm to the falls when the water cascades with a thunderous roar. A misty cloud of water droplets is formed due to the waterfall, lending a magical aura to the surrounding area. 

Whether it’s the roar of water plummeting down the cliff or the tranquil melody of the surrounding nature, Athirapally Falls is a mesmerizing symphony of Kerala’s untamed beauty.

13. Edakkal Caves

The term Edakkal translates to ‘a stone in between’, alluding to the natural rock bridge found at the entrance. Upon entering the caves, one can see various prehistoric carvings representing human and animal figures, tools, and symbols, all etched on the inner walls of the caves. 

These petroglyphs are a testament to prehistoric human habitation, offering significant insights into the cultural evolution of the region. Apart from their historical significance, Edakkal Caves also attract visitors for their stunning natural beauty and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. 

The journey to the caves, though challenging, is an invigorating trek through dense forests and steep rocks, making it an adventurous pursuit. In conclusion, the Edakkal Caves provide an enriching experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers, making them a must-visit destination in Kerala.

14. Soochipara Waterfall

This waterfall is named Soochipara, which translates to ‘needle rock’ in Malayalam, after the sharp, needle-like rock formation from which it cascades. The trek to the waterfall is an exciting journey through verdant deciduous forests, with panoramic views of Wayanad’s tea estates and the Western Ghats, making it a nature lover’s and photographer’s paradise.

The waterfall is a popular spot for picnics, bird watching, and adventurers who enjoy rock climbing and cliff jumping. The pool beneath the falls invites visitors to cool off in the crystal-clear water. The large caves found in the surrounding areas are a unique feature of Soochipara Waterfall, adding to its natural allure.

Easily accessible, yet unspoiled by commercial tourism, Soochipara Waterfall stands as a testament to nature’s raw and enchanting beauty offering an unforgettable experience to all who visit.

15. Chembra Peak

The path to the summit winds through verdant forests rich in flora and fauna. The most distinguishing feature of the trek is the heart-shaped lake, ‘Hridaya Saras,’ which lies en route to the summit and is an enduring symbol of unspoiled nature. This perennial lake is thought to have never dried up, adding to the location’s mystery and allure.

The moderate difficulty level of the Chembra Peak trek attracts trekkers from all over the world. The entire ascent is an experience in and of itself, as each step reveals the beauty of nature in its purest form. 

The journey to the summit is memorable, filled with the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the energising fragrance of wildflowers. Despite its popularity, Chembra Peak remains a serene and unpolluted location, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and quiet in the midst of nature.

Each destination brings its unique flavour, steeped in culture, history, and natural beauty, presenting an immersive and enriching travel experience. From the unspoiled landscapes of Wayanad to the ancient temples of Thrissur, Kerala’s offbeat locales serve as a tranquil escape from the ordinary, promising journeys that soothe the soul, enrich the mind, and invigorate the senses.