Best Things to Do in Kerala: The Ultimate Bucket List Guide
When travelers imagine South India, they picture swaying coconut palms, misty green tea gardens, and calm emerald canals. Known worldwide as "God’s Own Country," Kerala is a tropical destination packed with diverse landscapes and rich culture.
Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, or an adventure getaway, here are the top 10 must-do experiences to include in your Kerala itinerary.
Cultural Experiences
1. Kathakali Dance-Drama & Face Paint Art
Kathakali is Kerala’s famous classical dance-drama known for its vibrant costumes, elaborate headpieces, and intricate facial makeup made from natural mineral pigments. Before the performance begins, travelers can watch artists spend hours meticulously applying makeup and transforming into mythical characters. The story unfolds through precise eye movements, facial expressions (Navarasas), and hand gestures (Mudras).
Elaborate Kathakali makeup and attire. Source: Smarthistory
Where to Experience: Kerala Kathakali Centre (Fort Kochi) or Margi Theatre (Thiruvananthapuram).
Best For: Culture enthusiasts, photography lovers, and art history buffs.
2. Kalaripayattu Martial Arts Demonstration
Considered one of the oldest surviving fighting systems in the world, Kalaripayattu originated in Kerala over 3,000 years ago. Spectators watch trained martial artists perform fluid, high-flying acrobatic moves, sword fights, shield defense, and fire-weapon demonstrations inside a traditional Kalari (training arena) constructed from packed earth.
Acrobatic Kalaripayattu combat demonstration. Source: Kerala Tourism
Where to Experience: Kadathanadan Kalari Centre (Thekkady) or Punarjani Traditional Village (Munnar).
Best For: Families, history lovers, and active travelers.
🕉️ 2 Spiritual Experiences
1. Sunset Aarti & Heritage Walk at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Located in Thiruvananthapuram, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is famous for its towering Gopuram, blend of Kerala and Dravidian architecture, intricate stone carvings, and sacred pond. Experiencing the evening oil lamp lighting (Deeparadhana) as temple priests chant Vedic mantras offers an authentic spiritual atmosphere.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum. Source: Facebook
Key Detail: Non-Hindus can admire the grand stone architecture, sacred pond (Padmatheertham), and surrounding heritage streets from the outer walkways.
Best For: Heritage lovers, architecture seekers, and spiritual travelers.
2. Ashram Retreat & Cliffside Yoga in Varkala
For travelers seeking mindfulness, yoga, and inner peace, the serene environment around Varkala offers spiritual retreats anchored near the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple. Travelers can take part in early morning pranayama (breathwork), beachside yoga, guided meditation sessions, and oceanfront spiritual discourses overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Mindfulness and yoga retreat in Varkala. Source: BookYogaRetreats.com
Where to Experience: Sivagiri Mutt (Varkala) or traditional beachfront yoga ashrams along Varkala Cliff.
Best For: Wellness seekers, solo travelers, and mind-body rejuvenation.
1. Cruise the Emerald Backwaters on a Houseboat in Alleppey
No trip to Kerala is complete without gliding through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha) or Kumarakom. A traditional Kettuvallam (wooden houseboat) features fully furnished AC bedrooms, an open deck, and a private chef onboard who prepares authentic local meals like Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish) served on banana leaves.
Pro Tip: Opt for a private overnight cruise for the best sunset and sunrise views over the lagoons.
2. Walk Through the Endless Tea Gardens of Munnar
Nestled in the Western Ghats at 1,600 meters above sea level, Munnar is Kerala’s premier hill station. Endless rolling hills covered in emerald tea estates create a surreal, mist-shrouded backdrop.
Must Visit: Tata Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park (home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr), and Kolukkumalai—one of the world's highest tea plantations.
3. Experience Heritage & Sunset Chinese Fishing Nets in Fort Kochi
Step back in time in Fort Kochi, where Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influences blend seamlessly with local heritage. Stroll past centuries-old European churches, colorful art galleries, and vibrant spice markets.
Highlight: Photographing the cantilevered Chinese Fishing Nets as the sun sets over the Arabian Sea.
4. Take a Bamboo Rafting & Wildlife Safari in Thekkady (Periyar)
For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Periyar National Park in Thekkady offers boat safaris on Periyar Lake, where wild elephants, sambar deer, and exotic bird species come to drink.
Top Activity: Guided bamboo rafting through dense jungle waterways and spice plantation walking tours (cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon).
5. Catch Sunset Views & Cliffside Dining at Varkala Beach
Unlike standard beach destinations, Varkala features dramatic red laterite cliffs perched directly above the ocean. The clifftop pathway is lined with cozy seafood cafes, yoga studios, and handicraft shops.
Best For: Relaxed coastal vibes, beach yoga, surfing lessons, and cliffside dining.
6. Rejuvenate with Authentic Ayurvedic Massage & Wellness
Kerala is the cradle of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old traditional Indian science of holistic healing. Treat yourself to an Abhyangam (full-body herbal oil massage) or a Shirodhara therapy at a certified wellness retreat or resort.
Best Time for Ayurveda: Monsoon season (June to September) is considered optimal, as the cool, humid climate opens skin pores for maximum herbal oil absorption.
7. Witness Kathakali Dance & Kalaripayattu Martial Arts
Immerse yourself in Kerala’s living traditions by watching two iconic performance arts:
Kathakali: A classical dance-drama featuring intricate face paint, elaborate costumes, and expressive facial gestures detailing Indian mythology.
Kalaripayattu: One of the world's oldest martial arts, showcasing agility, swordplay, and ancient combat techniques.
8. Savor an Authentic Kerala Sadya Feast
Food is a central part of the Kerala experience. Be sure to sit down for a traditional Sadya—an elaborate vegetarian feast consisting of up to 24+ dishes served on a fresh banana leaf.
Other Must-Try Dishes: Fluffy Appam with coconut chicken or vegetable stew, Malabar Parotta with curry, and fresh toddy shop seafood dishes.
9. Marvel at Athirappilly Waterfalls ("The Niagara of India")
Located in Thrissur district, Athirappilly Falls is Kerala’s largest waterfall, cascading down 80 feet through lush rainforests. It’s a breathtaking sight, especially immediately following the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.
10. Trek & Explore Ancient Caves in Wayanad
Tucked away in northern Kerala, Wayanad offers cool rainforests, misty peaks, and prehistoric history.
Highlights: Trek up Chembra Peak to see the famous heart-shaped lake, or explore the ancient petroglyphs inside the Edakkal Caves that date back to the Neolithic era.