Lovingly called God’s Own Country, Kerala is every traveller’s dream come true. If you ever feel like you need an escape or simply want to treat yourself, parents, friends or family with a good time, Kerala is the place to go. Its calm houseboat rides, rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies and beautiful hill stations make Kerala tour package a must for everyone.

The state is well-known for its backwaters and tea gardens. But beyond these tourist hotspots lies a treasure trove of lesser-known destinations that can make your Kerala trip plan even more magical.

If you’re planning a vacation in Kerala or looking for family holiday packages in India, these hidden gems deserve a spot in your itinerary. Let’s get started.

Top 7 Kerala Places You Should Explore in 2025

1.Varkala

If you are booking a Kerala travel package, we are sure beaches are a part of your plan. But, if you want to go beyond the basic Kerala map with tourist places, skip the crowded populars like Kovalam and visit Varkala instead. Its dramatic cliffs above the Arabian Sea offer a quieter escape with equally stunning views.

Varkala is one of the most unique beach towns in the state. The main attraction here is the Papanasam Beach. Like the Ganga in the North, people believe that a dip in the sea here can wash away all your sins. It is also a great spot to relax, swim and watch a beautiful sunset. Even if you are planning a short Kerala tour from Bangalore, Varkala is perfect for a slow and relaxing holiday.

2. Edakkal Caves

 Tucked away in the hills of Wayanad, the Edakkal Caves are a fascinating blend of natural beauty and ancient history. Even the trek to Edakkal is a reward in itself. It leads travelers through cardamom-scented plantations and rugged terrain before rewarding them with the sight of beautiful, lush green valleys.

When you finally enter the caves, you’ll see prehistoric carvings — geometric patterns, animals and human figures. Some of the Edakkal Caves are believed to date back over 6,000 years. Besides, these are no ordinary caves. The structure is actually a massive rock fissure formed when a huge boulder wedged itself between two larger stones.  

3. Silent Valley National Park

Silent Valley is one of India's last untouched rainforests. Located in the Nilgiri Hills, it has been recognised by the UNESCO for housing rare species like the Lion-tailed Macaque and Malabar giant squirrel.

The peacefulness of Silent Valley is what makes it even more special. You can only hear streams, rustling leaves and animals. Especially if you are visiting with your kids, make sure you include Silent Valley in your family holiday packages in India. Its guided trekking trails take you deep into its lush greenery as you try to spot exotic birds and rare species with your binoculars.  

4. Vagamon

While beaches in Kerala are a no-brainer, Vagamon adds the freshness of mountains to your travel plans. This quiet hill station in the Western Ghats is famous for its rolling meadows, green valleys and dense pine forests. Known as a peaceful escape, Vagamon offers a calm contrast to Kerala’s busy beach destinations, making it ideal for travellers looking for serenity and natural beauty.

Visitors can stroll through lush tea gardens, enjoy easy hikes on mist-covered trails or simply relax while enjoying the cool climate. If you have a flair for adventure, you should go paragliding and enjoy the stunning landscape from above.

5. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is in the middle of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. There are more than 250 kinds of birds, as well as tigers, elephants and leopards.

You can go on guided safaris, nature walks and boat rides. There are also waterfalls and hiking trails nearby that travellers can see, which makes the trip even better. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a great place to see Kerala’s wild areas, whether you’re with your family or by yourself.

6. Bekal Fort

The 17th century Bekal Fort is located on the Arabian Sea coast of Kerala. It is one of the best-preserved forts in India and covers about 40 acres. The fort is known for its smart design and has views of the sea and sunsets that are truly unforgettable.

Bekal Fort is famous for its hidden tunnels, tall bastions, and old stone gates. People enjoy walking along its walls covered in moss, exploring hidden areas and soaking up the history. The fort is a great place to take pictures because it has both magnificent buildings and awe-inspiring landscapes. This fort is a great place to go, whether you’re with your family in India or by yourself.

7. Poovar Island

One of Kerala’s best-kept secrets is Poovar Island. The island is surrounded by a mix of river, sea and estuary. It is known for its unique mix of golden sands, backwaters and lagoons; while its serne beauty is accentuated by coconut, palms and mangroves that surround it.

A boat ride through Poovar’s backwaters takes you through beautiful villages and untouched nature. Poovar is a great place for travellers who want to see Kerala’s natural beauty at its peak in a quiet setting.

These are our pick of top 7 offbeat destinations in Kerala, but the state literally has so much to offer. With its vast diversity of tourist destinations, it is no wonder Kerala is one of the most rewarding family holiday packages in India.

If one thinks about India’s most soul-stirring destinations, Kerala always shines brightest on the map. The southern state offers something for everyone. Choosing the right Kerala tour package can help you navigate the process, much more comfortably and help cover both popular and hidden gems in one trip.

Even if you are on a tight schedule, best 4 day trip places in Kerala should be a good mix of beaches, hill stations and historical sites to give you an overall view of the beautiful state. For travellers seeking a Kerala tour from Bangalore, direct trains, buses and flights allow easy access.