Hidden Places in Kerala Worth Exploring
Kerala is famous for its palm-fringed beaches, peaceful backwaters, tea-covered mountains, and charming villages. But beyond the places that appear on every travel itinerary, there is another side of Kerala waiting to be discovered.
The state is filled with quiet mountain roads, remote villages, forest landscapes, hidden waterfalls, untouched islands, and peaceful stretches of coastline. These destinations offer a slower and more personal way to experience Kerala, often without the crowds found at its most popular attractions.
If you want to explore beyond Munnar, Alleppey, and Kochi, these hidden places in Kerala are worth adding to your travel plans. Some are ideal for road trips, while others are perfect for trekking, photography, wildlife, or simply spending a peaceful day surrounded by nature.
Gavi
Deep inside the forests of Pathanamthitta, Gavi is one of Kerala’s most peaceful nature destinations. The area is surrounded by dense forests, hills, lakes, and wildlife.
The journey itself is part of the experience. Roads wind through the Western Ghats, with opportunities to spot birds, elephants, deer, and other wildlife.
Gavi is particularly appealing to travelers who prefer forests and quiet landscapes over busy tourist centers.
Vagamon
Vagamon is a beautiful hill destination known for rolling grasslands, pine forests, misty mountains, and cool weather.
Unlike some of Kerala’s busier hill stations, Vagamon still has plenty of quiet corners where you can simply enjoy the landscape. The surrounding roads also make it an excellent destination for a Kerala road trip. Vagamon Travel Guide: A Peaceful Escape Into Kerala’s Hills
Early mornings are especially beautiful when mist covers the hills and the landscape feels almost dreamlike.
Illikkal Kallu
Rising high above the surrounding landscape, Illikkal Kallu is known for its dramatic rock formations and panoramic mountain views.
The journey to the viewpoint takes you through winding roads and peaceful highland scenery. Once you reach the area, the views across the surrounding valleys are impressive, especially when clouds move through the mountains.
It is a great destination for photographers and travelers looking for a mountain experience away from the usual tourist routes.
How to Explore These Hidden Places
A road trip is one of the easiest ways to experience several of these destinations.
Kerala’s compact geography means you can combine mountain villages, waterfalls, backwaters, and coastal areas into longer journeys. However, avoid trying to visit too many locations in a single day.
Remote destinations often have winding roads and slower travel times than expected. Start early, keep your route flexible, and allow time to stop along the way.
For forest destinations, follow local regulations and use authorized guides or services where required. Avoid entering restricted areas simply to find a more isolated viewpoint.
Most importantly, travel responsibly. Keep natural areas clean, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect local communities.
Kerala Hidden Places Route Map
Hidden Kerala Route
A collection of quieter mountains, forests, villages, islands, beaches and backwaters spread across Kerala. Explore the route, then open any destination directly in Google Maps.
20 Stops. One Kerala Adventure.
The route is designed as a visual guide rather than a single one-day driving route. These destinations are spread across Kerala, so choose the section that fits your trip and explore it at your own pace.
Explore All 20 Places
Gavi
Forests, wildlife, mountain roads and peaceful lakes deep inside Kerala’s Western Ghats.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSVagamon
Misty hills, rolling grasslands, pine forests and scenic mountain roads.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSIllikkal Kallu
Dramatic rock formations and panoramic mountain views above Kerala’s highlands.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSKakkayam
Forests, waterfalls and reservoir landscapes hidden among the northern Kerala hills.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSKanthalloor
A quiet mountain village surrounded by farms, orchards and highland landscapes.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSVattavada
Remote mountain farms, cool weather and spectacular roads near Munnar.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSMeesapulimala
High-altitude trekking, mountain ridges, grasslands and dramatic Western Ghats scenery.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSMankayam
Forest streams and waterfalls tucked into the hills near Ponmudi.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSThenmala
Forest landscapes, reservoir views and outdoor experiences in southern Kerala.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSAchankovil
Remote forest roads, mountain scenery and a slower atmosphere inside the southern Western Ghats.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSMunroe Island
Narrow canals, traditional villages and peaceful backwater landscapes.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSKakkathuruthu
A tiny island surrounded by backwaters, coconut trees and peaceful village scenery.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSKadamakudy
Island villages, waterways, fishing landscapes and beautiful golden-hour views.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSKumbalangi
Traditional fishing life, backwaters and village landscapes close to Kochi.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSKappil
Backwaters meeting the Arabian Sea with coconut palms, beaches and peaceful coastal roads.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSValiyaparamba
Quiet islands, coconut-lined waterways and traditional northern Kerala backwaters.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSRanipuram
Green hills, trekking trails and wide mountain views in northern Kerala.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSPaithalmala
Misty mountain trails, green slopes and elevated Western Ghats viewpoints.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSPalakkayam Thattu
A scenic hilltop escape with wide views across the green northern Kerala landscape.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSKavvayi Backwaters
Peaceful waterways, small islands, fishing villages and a slower northern Kerala experience.
OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPSThe Road Is Part of the Story
These destinations are spread across Kerala, so this is not meant to be completed as one rushed route. Choose a region, slow down, and let the road become part of the experience.
Hidden Places in Kerala: Complete Travel Expense Guide
Explore Kerala’s lesser-known destinations with a practical budget breakdown covering transport, stays, food, activities, and extra costs.
Hidden Places in Kerala: Complete Travel Expense Guide
Exploring Kerala’s lesser-known destinations does not always require a large budget. Your actual cost depends on transportation, accommodation, food, activities and how long you stay. The estimates below are designed as practical planning ranges for budget-conscious travellers.
Fuel, buses, taxis or shared travel depending on the route.
Budget homestays, guesthouses and simple accommodation.
Local restaurants and affordable Kerala meals.
Entry fees, boating, permits and selected experiences.
Estimated Expense by Destination
These are approximate budget ranges for planning purposes. Prices can change depending on season, travel style, group size and availability.
| # | Destination | Transport | Stay | Food | Activities | Misc. | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Gavi | ₹1,500–₹3,500 | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹200–₹1,000 | ₹200–₹400 | ₹3,300–₹8,100 |
| 02 | Vagamon | ₹1,200–₹3,000 | ₹800–₹2,000 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹200–₹1,000 | ₹150–₹350 | ₹2,750–₹7,050 |
| 03 | Illikkal Kallu | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹100–₹500 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,400–₹5,750 |
| 04 | Kakkayam | ₹1,200–₹3,000 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹150–₹700 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,650–₹6,450 |
| 05 | Kanthalloor | ₹1,500–₹3,500 | ₹900–₹2,200 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹150–₹600 | ₹150–₹350 | ₹3,100–₹7,350 |
| 06 | Vattavada | ₹1,500–₹3,500 | ₹900–₹2,200 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹100–₹500 | ₹150–₹350 | ₹3,050–₹7,250 |
| 07 | Meesapulimala | ₹1,500–₹3,500 | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹500–₹2,000 | ₹200–₹400 | ₹3,600–₹9,100 |
| 08 | Mankayam | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | ₹700–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹100–₹500 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,300–₹5,750 |
| 09 | Thenmala | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹150–₹800 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,450–₹6,050 |
| 10 | Achankovil | ₹1,200–₹3,000 | ₹700–₹1,700 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹100–₹400 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,500–₹6,050 |
| 11 | Munroe Island | ₹800–₹2,000 | ₹800–₹2,000 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹300–₹1,000 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,450–₹6,000 |
| 12 | Kakkathuruthu | ₹800–₹2,000 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹200–₹800 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,300–₹5,550 |
| 13 | Kadamakudy | ₹500–₹1,500 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹100–₹600 | ₹100–₹250 | ₹1,850–₹4,800 |
| 14 | Kumbalangi | ₹500–₹1,500 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹200–₹800 | ₹100–₹250 | ₹2,000–₹5,050 |
| 15 | Kappil | ₹700–₹2,000 | ₹800–₹2,000 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹100–₹600 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,100–₹5,550 |
| 16 | Valiyaparamba | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | ₹900–₹2,200 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹300–₹1,200 | ₹150–₹350 | ₹2,750–₹6,950 |
| 17 | Ranipuram | ₹1,500–₹3,500 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹100–₹500 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,900–₹6,750 |
| 18 | Paithalmala | ₹1,200–₹3,000 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹100–₹500 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,600–₹6,250 |
| 19 | Palakkayam Thattu | ₹1,200–₹3,000 | ₹800–₹1,800 | ₹350–₹650 | ₹100–₹500 | ₹150–₹300 | ₹2,600–₹6,250 |
| 20 | Kavvayi Backwaters | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | ₹900–₹2,200 | ₹400–₹700 | ₹300–₹1,200 | ₹150–₹350 | ₹2,750–₹6,950 |
Gavi
Vagamon
Illikkal Kallu
Kakkayam
Kanthalloor
Vattavada
Meesapulimala
Mankayam
Thenmala
Achankovil
Munroe Island
Kakkathuruthu
Kadamakudy
Kumbalangi
Kappil
Valiyaparamba
Ranipuram
Paithalmala
Palakkayam Thattu
Kavvayi Backwaters
How Much Should You Budget?
Budget Traveller
Public transport, shared rides, simple homestays and local food.
₹1,500–₹3,000 / dayComfort Traveller
Private transport, comfortable homestays or hotels and selected activities.
₹3,000–₹5,500 / dayPremium Traveller
Private vehicle, better accommodation, guided experiences and additional activities.
₹5,500+ / dayExtra Costs to Keep in Mind
Local Transport
Auto-rickshaws, local taxis and short-distance transfers may add to the daily budget.
Parking
Some popular viewpoints and attractions may charge parking fees.
Boating
Backwater destinations may require additional money for boat rides and water-based experiences.
Permits & Guides
Forest areas and trekking destinations may have permits or guide-related costs.
Fuel & Tolls
Road-trip travellers should keep an additional buffer for fuel, tolls and unexpected detours.
Emergency Buffer
Keeping around 10–15% extra in your travel budget can help with unexpected expenses.
A practical budget for exploring hidden places in Kerala.
For a short 2–3 day trip, a budget traveller can generally plan around ₹4,000–₹10,000 per person depending on the destination and travel style. Longer road trips, private vehicles, premium stays and paid experiences will naturally increase the total.
If you are travelling as a group, sharing fuel, accommodation and taxi costs can significantly reduce the individual cost.
Simple Ways to Save Money
Travel with friends and split fuel, accommodation and taxi costs.
Choose local homestays and family-run guesthouses instead of expensive resorts.
Eat at local restaurants to experience authentic Kerala food without spending heavily.
Check permits, entry fees and activity prices before leaving for remote destinations.
Kakkayam
Kakkayam in Kozhikode district offers a combination of forests, mountains, waterfalls, and reservoir scenery.
The destination feels far removed from the busy coastal city. Green hills surround the area, while forest roads and streams create plenty of opportunities for nature photography.
Kakkayam is especially attractive for travelers who enjoy exploring less-commercialized parts of Kerala.
Kanthalloor
Located in the high ranges of Idukki, Kanthalloor is a quiet mountain village surrounded by farms, orchards, and rugged hills.
The region has a different atmosphere from the more developed parts of Munnar. You can see vegetable farms, fruit plantations, small villages, and beautiful mountain landscapes along the roads.
It is an excellent destination for travelers who want to experience rural Kerala at a slower pace.
Vattavada
Vattavada sits high in the mountains near Munnar and is known for its cool climate, agricultural landscapes, and remote village atmosphere.
The journey through the mountains is one of its biggest attractions. Terraced farms and hills create constantly changing views along the route.
For photographers, Vattavada offers plenty of opportunities to capture landscapes and everyday village life.
Meesapulimala
For travelers who enjoy trekking, Meesapulimala is one of Kerala’s most memorable mountain destinations.
Located in the Western Ghats, the area offers dramatic ridges, grasslands, mist, and expansive views across the surrounding mountains.
The experience is more about the journey than simply reaching a viewpoint. The changing landscape throughout the trek makes it particularly rewarding for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mankayam
Mankayam is a lesser-known nature destination near Ponmudi, surrounded by forests and waterfalls.
The area provides a refreshing escape during Kerala’s warmer months, with streams and forest scenery creating a peaceful atmosphere.
It is a good choice for travelers who want to combine a mountain drive with a quiet nature experience.
Thenmala
Thenmala is surrounded by forests, hills, and the waters of the Thenmala reservoir.
The region combines natural scenery with outdoor activities, making it suitable for travelers who want more than simply sightseeing.
The surrounding landscape is particularly attractive during a road trip through southern Kerala.
Achankovil
Achankovil lies within the forested landscapes of the southern Western Ghats.
The area is known for its peaceful surroundings and long stretches of forest roads. The journey here can feel like an adventure itself, particularly for travelers who enjoy remote destinations.
It is a place to slow down, disconnect from busy tourist areas, and enjoy Kerala’s natural side.
Munroe Island
Munroe Island in Kollam is a beautiful network of canals, waterways, villages, and coconut-covered landscapes.
Instead of experiencing the backwaters from a busy tourist center, visitors here can see a quieter side of everyday Kerala life.
A canoe trip through the narrow waterways is one of the best ways to appreciate the landscape.
Kakkathuruthu
Kakkathuruthu is a small island surrounded by Kerala’s backwaters near Alappuzha.
The peaceful setting, coconut trees, waterways, and village atmosphere make it ideal for travelers looking for a slower experience.
Sunset is particularly beautiful here, with the surrounding water reflecting the changing colors of the sky.
Kadamakudy
Just outside Kochi, Kadamakudy is a group of small islands surrounded by backwaters and rural landscapes.
It is an easy escape from the city and offers a completely different atmosphere. Narrow roads, fishing areas, fields, waterways, and traditional homes create plenty of interesting scenes for photographers.
It is particularly beautiful around sunrise and sunset.
Kumbalangi
Kumbalangi is a traditional fishing village near Kochi where visitors can experience a quieter side of coastal Kerala.
Fishing, backwaters, traditional homes, and village landscapes form the character of the area.
Rather than rushing through attractions, spend time walking around and observing everyday life.
Kappil
Kappil is a scenic destination where Kerala’s backwaters meet the Arabian Sea.
The combination of calm waterways, coconut trees, beaches, and open coastal scenery makes this an excellent place for a relaxed road trip.
It is particularly attractive for travelers who want to experience both Kerala’s coastline and backwaters in one location.
Valiyaparamba
Valiyaparamba in Kasaragod is known for its peaceful backwaters and island landscapes.
The area feels noticeably quieter than Kerala’s famous backwater destinations. Coconut palms, waterways, fishing villages, and small islands create a beautiful northern Kerala setting.
It is an excellent destination for travelers exploring beyond the southern tourist circuit.
Ranipuram
Often described as one of the scenic hill destinations of northern Kerala, Ranipuram offers green hills, trekking trails, and expansive views.
The landscape changes as you climb, with grasslands and forest patches creating a refreshing mountain environment.
Ranipuram is a strong choice for travelers exploring Kasaragod beyond its beaches and historic attractions.
Paithalmala
Paithalmala is a beautiful hill destination in Kannur known for its trekking trails and misty mountain scenery.
The trek takes you through green landscapes toward elevated viewpoints overlooking the surrounding Western Ghats.
The changing weather and clouds can give the mountain a completely different appearance throughout the day.
Palakkayam Thattu
Palakkayam Thattu is a scenic hilltop destination in Kannur surrounded by green mountains and valleys.
The viewpoint is especially appealing around sunrise and sunset when soft light spreads across the landscape.
For travelers exploring northern Kerala, it offers a memorable mountain stop without requiring a long multi-day itinerary.
Kavvayi Backwaters
Kavvayi Backwaters in northern Kerala offer a quieter alternative to the better-known backwater destinations.
The waterways are surrounded by small islands, villages, coconut trees, and traditional fishing landscapes.
A peaceful boat ride is one of the best ways to experience the area and appreciate the slower rhythm of life in northern Kerala.
Best Time to Explore Hidden Places in Kerala
The best time depends on the type of destination you plan to visit.
For mountain destinations such as Vagamon, Kanthalloor, Vattavada, Ranipuram, and Paithalmala, the cooler months from October to February are generally comfortable for road trips and outdoor activities.
The monsoon season from June to September transforms Kerala into a lush green landscape. Waterfalls and forests can look spectacular during this period, although heavy rain can affect trekking, road conditions, and access to certain areas.
The drier months are generally more convenient for exploring beaches and backwaters.
Always check local weather and access conditions before heading into remote forest or mountain areas.
Travel Tips for Visiting Hidden Places in Kerala
Start early: Sunrise is often the best time for mountain viewpoints, photography, and peaceful roads.
Check road conditions: Mountain and forest routes can change depending on weather.
Carry essentials: Remote destinations may have limited shops, ATMs, or fuel stations.
Respect local communities: Many hidden destinations are residential villages rather than commercial tourist attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hidden places in Kerala?
Gavi, Vagamon, Illikkal Kallu, Kanthalloor, Vattavada, Munroe Island, Kadamakudy, Valiyaparamba, and Paithalmala are among the destinations worth considering for travelers looking beyond Kerala’s most popular tourist spots.
Which hidden place in Kerala is best for mountains?
Vagamon, Meesapulimala, Illikkal Kallu, Paithalmala, and Ranipuram offer different types of mountain experiences, from easy scenic drives to trekking.
Which hidden places in Kerala are good for a road trip?
Vagamon, Kanthalloor, Vattavada, Gavi, Kakkayam, Ranipuram, and Kappil can work particularly well as road-trip destinations.
Are these places suitable for families?
Many are, but the experience varies. Backwater destinations and scenic villages can be easier for families, while trekking destinations may require more physical effort.
When is the best time to visit Kerala?
October to February is generally comfortable for many outdoor destinations. The monsoon season offers spectacular greenery and waterfalls but can bring heavy rain and challenging road conditions.
Are hidden places in Kerala crowded?
Some destinations can become busy during weekends and holidays. Visiting early in the morning or traveling during quieter periods can provide a more peaceful experience.
How many days are needed to explore these destinations?
You would need considerably more than a weekend to experience all 20 properly. A 7–10 day road trip can cover a selection of destinations, while a longer trip allows for a slower pace.
Final Thoughts
Kerala’s beauty is not limited to its famous tourist attractions. Some of the most memorable experiences can be found on quiet mountain roads, beside small backwaters, inside forest landscapes, and in villages where everyday life continues at its own pace.
From the misty mountains of Vagamon and Meesapulimala to the peaceful waterways of Munroe Island and Valiyaparamba, these destinations reveal a different side of the state.
If you are planning your next Kerala adventure, look beyond the usual checklist. Take the longer road, explore a quieter village, stop when the landscape catches your attention, and give yourself enough time to experience the journey.
Sometimes, the best places are the ones you almost missed.
