Looking for something to explore other than beaches and backwaters in Kerala? If yes, then this article is for you! The hill stations in Kerala are the next best thing that accentuates the state’s natural beauty. From tea, coffee, and spice plantations to lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries, the many awe-inspiring attractions here will entice you in no time and whisk away all your worries.
Take a backseat, as we will take you on an exciting journey through the top 20 Kerala hill stations.
1. Munnar
Munnar | 1 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
This quaint hill station in Kerala, perched at an altitude of 5026 feet, is all about lush green forests, extensive tea plantations, pristine valleys, vantage points and exotic flora and fauna. Munnar, also known as the “Kashmir of South India” is an excellent choice for a family vacation or a romantic escapade. It is highly considered among the top 10 hill stations in Kerala to experience the nature at its best.
- Popular Places to Visit in Munnar: Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, Attukad Waterfalls, Tata Tea Museum, Dream Land Fun and Adventure, Photo Point, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Things to Do in Munnar: Boat ride on Kundala Dam Lake, enjoy boating, skating, ATV bike rides and cycling at The Blossom International Park, take a stroll through the tea gardens, try rock climbing, paragliding and other thrilling activities
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (109 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Udumalaippettai Railway Station (85 km) and Angamaly Railway Station (109 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Munnar, Budget Hotels in Munnar
2. Wayanad
Wayanad | 2 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Nestled among the Western Ghats, this beautiful hill station in Kerala is a treat for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The best thing about Wayanad is that it has a variety of attractions for different types of travellers, such as serene hills, spice plantations, waterfalls, lakes, pre-historic caves, and diverse flora and fauna. What’s more, visitors to the hill station can engage in trekking, river rafting, and other adrenaline-pumping activities.
- Popular Places to Visit in Wayanad: Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Thirunelli Temple
- Things to Do in Wayanad: Trekking, boating and birdwatching at Pookode Lake and Banasura Dam, enjoy boat rides, rafting and nature walks at Kuruva Island, try kayaking, row-boating, rock climbing and other activities at Karlad Lake
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kozhikode International Airport (96 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (90 km)
3. Vagamon
Vagamon | 3 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Popularly known as the “Scotland of Asia”, this off-beat hill station boasts a wonderful amalgamation of verdant hills, lush green plains, waterfalls and sparkling rivers. Vagamon is also a popular adventure hill stations near Kochi, owing to the variety of sports activities available to tourists.
- Popular Places to Visit: Marmala Waterfalls, Karikadu View Point, Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary, Murugan Hill, Pattumala Church, Echo Point
- Things to Do: Spend serene time at Vagamon Meadows, walk into the woods at Pine Hills, enjoy trekking, rock climbing and paragliding at Barren Hills
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (99 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kottayam Railway Station (63 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Kochi
4. Thiruvambadi
Thiruvambadi | 4 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Thiruvambadi, situated on the banks of the Iruvanjippuzha River and surrounded by verdant green mountains, is a preferred destination for nature lovers and honeymooners. There are so many things to do here, from relaxing and admiring the beauty of the valleys, waterfalls, and beaches to visiting temples and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Popular Places to Visit: Tusharagiri Waterfalls, Arippara Waterfalls, Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, Varakkal Temple, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary
- Things to Do: Enjoy surfing, parasailing, skiing, kayaking and other activities at Beypore Beach, spend some time in the beautiful surroundings of Mananchira Square, engage in fishing, birdwatching and photography at Mavoor Wetlands
- Best Time to Visit: August to April
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kozhikode International Airport (35 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (35 km)
5. Lakkidi
Lakkidi | 5 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Lakkidi is a must-visit if you want to connect with nature and explore places on foot. The hill station has a pleasant climate and is well known for its stunning landscapes and tranquil environment. Despite its small size, Lakkidi is among the most famous hill stations in Kerala.
- Popular Places to Visit: Chain Tree, Pookode Lake, Lakkidi View Point, Thusharagiri Waterfalls, Ananthanatha Swamy Jain Temple, Wayanad Tea Museum
- Things to Do: Boat ride on Pookode Lake, enjoy picnics, hiking, bird-watching, zip-lining and other activities at Heart Lake Conservation Area, trek to Chembra Peak
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kozhikode International Airport (68 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (62 km)
6. Thekkady
Thekkady | 6 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Thekkady, one of the most-visited hill stations in Kerala, is a haven for nature lovers as well as wildlife enthusiasts. From majestic mountains and vast stretches of tea, coffee and spice plantations to popular wildlife sanctuaries and temples, Thekkady has a lot to offer. Besides these, the hill station has a plethora of options for adventure junkies too.
- Popular Places to Visit: Periyar Tiger Reserve, Pandikuzhi, Mangala Devi Temple, Chellarcovil View Point, Anakarra, Suruli Falls
- Things to Do: Boat ride on Thekkady Lake, enjoy bamboo rafting, jeep and elephant safari, border hiking, nature walks and other activities at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, explore spice farms and plantations at Vandeperiyar, camp on the banks of Periyar River, walk through cardamom plantations at Vandanmedi, shop for spices
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Madhurai Airport (153 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kottayam Railway Station (107 km)
7. Idukki
Idukki | 7 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Surrounded by the Western Ghats and endowed with nature’s bounty, Idukki draws tourists from all over the world. Among the top hill stations in Kerala, it is home to a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, rivers, wildlife sanctuaries, rubber and spice plantations, and tea factories. Idukki Dam, one of the highest arch dams in Asia, is a prominent attraction here
- Popular Places to Visit: Keezharkuthu Falls, Valara Waterfalls, Hill View Park, Anakkara, Idukki Arch Dam, Periyar National Park
- Things to Do: Soak in breath-taking panoramic views from Nandukani, enjoy trekking and hiking at Kulamavu Dam, take a leisurely walk through tea and coffee plantations, spot wild elephants, tigers and other animals at Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (100 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kottayam Railway Station (123 km)
Here’s a comprehensive itinerary for those planning a short stay in Cochin
8. Ponmudi
Ponmudi | 8 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Ponmudi, which overlooks the Arabian Sea and has the Western Ghats in the background, is a great place to experience nature at its best. The lush green hills, tea plantations, mountain flowers, rivulets, and waterfalls give the hill station a distinct charm that draws tourists from far and wide. Ponmudi hill station offers numerous opportunities for adventure seekers as well as wildlife lovers.
- Popular Places to Visit: Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Mini Zoo, Echo Point, Koyikkal Palace, Kallar, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo
- Things to Do: Enjoy a picnic in the calm and enchanting Golden Valley, trek to Meenmutty and Kallar waterfalls, go on a trekking expedition at Agasthyakoodam and Varayattumotta
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (58 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Thiruvananthapuram Central (55 km)
9. Vithura
A lesser-known hill station in Kerala, this lovely hamlet near Thiruvananthapuram is ideal for peace seekers. Vithura has stunning landscapes and promises a serene environment and a soothing climate, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to unwind in the midst of nature. It is one of the best hill stations near Trivandrum to relax and rejevunate.
- Popular Places to Visit: Peppara Dam, Bonacaud Tea Gardens, Ponmudi, Meenmutty Falls, Golden Valley
- Things to Do: Trekking, camping, photography and birdwatching at Kallar, trekking and the nature photography at Agasthyakoodam, rock climbing at Chittipara, visiting the rubber and spice plantations, enjoying nature walks
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (37 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Thiruvananthapuram Central (34 km)
10. Peermade
Peermade | 10 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
The pure and pristine Peermade is a nature lover’s delight, surrounded by mist-cloaked hills and peppered with sprawling tea, coffee, spice and rubber plantations. The hill station has a unique topography complete with milky-white waterfalls, sparkling streams, and an abundance of flora and fauna. Trekking, hiking and cycling are available for those looking to satisfy their thirst for adventure. You can also learn about Peermade’s ancient tribal population and their culture and history by interacting with them.
- Popular Places to Visit: Grampi, Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre, Green Park Ayurvedic and Spices Plantation, Valanjamkanam Waterfalls
- Things to Do: Enjoy treks and picnics at Peeru Hills, Vagamon and Memala, take long walks amidst nature at Thrissanku Hills, soak in the beauty of tea gardens at Pattumala, visit a tea factory, shop for spices
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (136 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kottayam Railway Station (79 km)
11. Malampuzha
Malampuzha | 11 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Malampuzha in Kerala’s Palakkad district is a wonderful destination for a family vacation. This beautiful hill station has a variety of attractions for all types of travellers. While children and thrill-seekers enjoy the aquarium and amusement parks, adults can explore the rock gardens and go on nature walks and hikes.
- Popular Places to Visit: Udan Khatola, Thread Garden, Malampuzha Dam, Fantasy Park, Snake Park, Rock Garden, Adiyogi – The Source of Yoga
- Things to Do: Enjoy boat rides at Malampuzha Gardens, pay your respects at the temples in Thenkurussi, trek to Dhoni Waterfall, explore Silent Valley National Park for rare species of flora and fauna
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (64 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Palakkad Junction (16 km)
12. Malakkappara
Malakkappara | 12 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Malakkappara, also known as the “Angel of Rocks”, is an ideal destination for tea and nature enthusiasts. The verdant green landscapes, sprawling tea plantations, dams and waterfalls add to the serene ambiance of this stunning hill station, making it a wonderful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of busy cities. You can also engage in nature photography here and see rare flora and fauna.
- Popular Places to Visit: Charpa Waterfalls, Athirappilly Waterfalls, Vazhachal Waterfalls, Holy Land Replica of Chalakudy, Thumboormuzhy Dam, Peringalkuthu Dam
- Things to Do: Take a leisurely stroll through the tea gardens, enjoy jungle safari, nature walks and hikes
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (134 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Pollachi Junction (85 km) and Aluva Railway Station (96 km)
13. Gavi
Gavi | 13 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
If you want to spend some time away from the hustle-bustle of cities, make Gavi a priority on your itinerary. This enticingly beautiful hill station, complete with flora, fauna, spice plantations, lakes, and tree houses, is nothing short of tourist’s paradise. Aside from admiring nature’s serenity, you can also go on forest safaris and participate in various adventure activities here.
- Popular Places to Visit: Periyar National Park, Neer Veezhcha Waterfall, Connemara Tea Factory
- Things to Do: Enjoy boating, jeep safari, elephant safari, bamboo rafting, hiking and other activities at Periyar National Park, take a tour of the spice plantations, hike to Chenthamara Kokka and Mount Valley View Point, camp at Kochu Pampa and Pullumedu
- Best Time to Visit: September to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (179 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kottayam Railway Station (120 km)
14. Ranipuram
Ranipuram | 14 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
This charming yet unexplored hill station in Kerala’s Kasargod district is ideal for nature lovers, boasting diverse flora and fauna. Ranipuram, located at an elevation of 2460 feet, is known for its verdant green monsoon rainforest and amazing trekking trails. A few days in hill stations Kerala, is all you need for the most amazing vacation!
- Popular Places to Visit: Tala Kaveri Temple, Bekal Fort, Ranipuram Wildlife Sanctuary, Malom Village
- Things to Do: Pay your respects at Tala Kaveri Temple and enjoy panoramic views there, explore the religious places and natural attractions of Malom Village, seek blessings at the temples in Bhagamandala
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (117 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kanhangad Railway Station (46 km)
Nature-buffs can also plan a trip to these stunning hill stations in South India
15. Silent Valley
Silent Valley | 15 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
This ecologically diverse and uncommercialised destination, nestled in the Western Ghats and surrounded by lush greenery, will take your breath away. Silent Valley National Park is a veritable treasure trove of some of the world’s most endangered flora and fauna. Explore the place to see over 1000 different types of flowering plants and ferns, 170 species of birds, 95 species of butterflies, and a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, civets, sambars, and sloth bears.
- Popular Places to Visit: Palakkad, Velliangiri Hill Temple, Dhoni Waterfalls, Marudamalai Temple
- Things to Do: Take a safari in the National Park to spot endangered species of flora and fauna, visit the well-preserved stone-built Palakkad Fort, enjoy birdwatching, explore the tribal village
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kozhikode International Airport (53 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Palakkad Junction (38 km)
16. Kalpetta
Kalpetta | 16 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Because of the sprawling coffee plantations here, this beautiful hill station in the Wayanad district welcomes tourists with a soothing cold breeze and enticing aromas of coffee. Kalpetta, at an elevation of 2560-feet, is blessed with dense vegetation and a refreshing aura. There are also many lakes, dams, temples, museums, and comfortable hotels in Kalpetta. This famous hill station in Kerala is a wonderful option for either leisurely or fun-filled and adventurous vacations.
- Popular Places to Visit: Chembra Peak, Karapuzha Dam, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Meenmutty Falls, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Ananthanatha Swamy Jain Temple, Hridaya Saras Lake
- Things to Do: Enjoy camping, zip-lining and other activities at Wayanad Adventure Camp, boat rides on Karlad Lake, trek to Neelimala View Point, visit Kurumbalakkotta Mala for enticing sunrise views
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kozhikode International Airport (83 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (77 km)
17. Athirapally
Athirapally | 17 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
If you enjoy scenic landscapes, lush green environs, waterfalls, and wildlife, a trip to Athirapally will leave you awestruck! The hill station, situated in Kerala’s Thrissur district, is known for housing one of the country’s most enticing waterfalls. The waterfall’s beauty is so mesmerising that it has been compared to the great Niagara Falls! Photographers who visit the hill station can capture some stunning landscape photos.
- Popular Places to Visit: Athirapally Waterfalls, Vazhachal Waterfalls, Charpa Waterfalls, Thumboormuzhi Dam, Peringalkuthu Dam
- Things to Do: Enjoy interesting rides and rain dance at Silver Storm Water Theme Park, trek and hike to the waterfalls, spot around 150 species of butterflies at Thumboormuzhi Dam
- Best Time to Visit: September to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (34 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Chalakudy Railway Station (27 km)
18. Vythiri
Vythiri | 18 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
Vythiri, located in the Wayanad district, is a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The hill station is surrounded by lush green rolling hills and is well-known for its beautiful forests, spice plantations, sparkling rivers, enticing waterfalls, and tribal communities. It is among the most loved hill stations near Kerala. Aside from spending time in nature, you can also visit Vythri’s temples, caves and other attractions.
- Popular Places to Visit: Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Pookot Lake, Soochipara Waterfalls, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Lakkidi View Point, Karlad Lake, Shri Thirunelli Mahavishnu Temple
- Things to Do: Enjoy boating on Pookot Lake, spot rare flora and fauna at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, indulge in boating, trekking, and birdwatching at Banasura Dam, take nature walks
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kozhikode International Airport (73 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (67 km)
19. Ranni
This small and unexplored hamlet in Kerala is a delight for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Ranni, located along the Pampa River and boasting lush green environs, milky-white waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna, is a perfect destination for those looking to relax in natural surroundings. The popular Sabarimala Temple is about 60 km away from Ranni and offers a spiritual experience like no other. The Periyar Tiger Reserve, located near Ranni, is also a must-visit.
- Popular Places to Visit: Sabarimala Temple, Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Seethathode, Madatharuvi Waterfalls, Konni Forest Reserve, Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls
- Things to Do: Enjoy trekking and hiking at Charalkunnu Hill, attend cultural shows and fairs, check out the architectural beauty of St. Thomas Orthodox Church
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (121 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Tiruvalla Railway Station (29 km)
Know more about Kerala tourism
20. Malayattur
Malayattur | 20 of 20 Hill Stations in Kerala
This enticing hill station in Kerala’s Ernakulam district is an important Christian pilgrimage destination as well as an ideal getaway for nature lovers. Malayattur is home to numerous churches and temples, the most notable of which is the ancient Catholic Church dedicated to Apostle St. Thomas. If you are a nature lover, you can enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills and spend some peaceful time in parks and waterfalls to reconnect with nature.
- Popular Places to Visit: Mount Kurisumudy, St. Thomas Grotto, Bharanikuzhi Waterfall, Haritha Biological Park, Vazhachal Waterfalls
- Things to Do: Soak in the breathtaking views at Pettamala View Point, engage in trekking, hiking, birdwatching and nature walks, enjoy water sports, games and rides at Silver Storm Water Theme Park
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (17 km)
- Nearest Train Station: Angamaly Railway Station (16 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Ernakulam
So, if you want to immerse yourself in nature and soothe your body, mind and soul, you should plan a trip to some of these hill stations in Kerala. The scenic beauty of the hills, coupled with good weather, makes for an ideal tourist destination, ensuring a rejuvenating and memorable vacation. Have you been to any of these hill stations in Kerala? Please share your favourite hill stations in the comments section.
FAQ
Q. Which is the most cooling place in Kerala?
A. Munnar is often considered one of the most cooling places in Kerala. Munnar’s average temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, making it an ideal escape from the heat and humidity of the coastal regions in Kerala. The best time to visit Munnar is from October to April.
Q. Which is the highest hill station in Kerala?
A. The highest hill station in Kerala is Munnar. Situated in the Western Ghats at an elevation ranging from 1,500 meters to 2,695 meters (4,921 feet to 8,842 feet) above sea level.
Q. What are some of the places to visit in Kerala apart from hill stations?
A. Apart from hill stations in Kerala, places like the Backwaters of Alleppey, Kochi, Periyar National Park, Kumarakom, and Kovalam are quite famous.
Q. Which is the most famous hill station in Kerala?
A. Munnar is the most famous hill station in Kerala. Apart from Munnar, the top 5 hill stations in Kerala are Wayanad, Vagamon, Idukki, Ponmudi, and Thekkady. There are many beautiful hill stations near Kochi as well.
Q. Is there any hill station in Kerala?
A. There are several Kerala hill stations, these hill stations offer a cool climate, stunning landscapes, and a refreshing escape from the coastal plains. Some of the best hill stations in Kerala are Munnar, Wayanad, Vagamon, Thekkady, and Ponmudi.
Q. Which is the highest viewpoint in Kerala?
A. Anamudi Peak is the highest viewpoint in Kerala. Located in the Eravikulam National Park in the Western Ghats, Anamudi Peak stands tall at an elevation of 2,695 meters (8,842 feet) above sea level. It is the highest peak in South India and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and tea plantations.
