Offbeat Attractions in Kerala for New Escape

So, do you think Kerala is all about serene beaches and swaying palms?

Well, let me tell you a story. The first time I packed my bags to Kerala, I thought I knew exactly what I found, which truly mesmerised ME! I have covered sandy shores, houseboats, and coconut trees.

But then, I decided to step off the tourist trail, and what I saw was nothing short of magical.

Whatever it takes, you are ready to explore the hidden gems;

- You may be tired of the crowds or want to enjoy your vacation peacefully!
- OR
- You have already experienced its coastal charm and famous spots.
- OR
- You are an offbeat explorer from your heart?

The offbeat path has its charm; it’s quieter, more authentic, and feels like discovering a little secret no one else knows.

Travel to less explored places in Kerala; this is the right guide to explore the hidden gems of Varkala, Paravur, Vagamon and Kuttikanam.

Let’s talk about places that will surprise you, like the serene backwaters of Paravur, the lush green hills of Vagamon, the peaceful vibe of Kuttikanam, and even the lesser-explored spots around Varkala. Wait, these places are not in your imagination yet?

Trust me, these destinations will give you a whole new perspective on God’s Own Country. Ready to venture off the beaten path? Let’s go!

Read Here about Top Backwater Destinations in Kerala that You Can’t Miss.

Hidden Gems of Kerala That You Should Not Miss!

You must have scrolled through the reels and websites and found the best spots in Kerala. But the hidden truth is that there is a heavy load of attractions in the form of villages, hills, trekking trails, and waterfalls, which still have not been met with your eyes. And this blog introduced these to you!

1. Kumarakom

My day started with a traditional breakfast at a homestay – piping hot appams and stew served by an endearing host who shared stories of her childhood.

A canoe ride through the backwaters, guided by a local fisherman, showed me a side of Kerala most travellers miss.

Highlight: Visiting a toddy shop and witnessing the locals’ way of life up close.

2. Silent Valley National Park

I laced up my hiking boots and ventured into the untouched forests of Silent Valley. The serenity was

punctuated only by birdsong and the occasional rustle of wildlife.

The highlight? Spotting the endangered lion-tailed macaque and feeling like I had stumbled into a nature documentary.

Pro tip: Hire a guide; they know the park inside out and will enhance your experience.

3. Athirapally Waterfall

My drive to Athirapally was nothing short of cinematic – winding roads, lush greenery, and the sound of cascading water in the distance.

Standing in front of the mighty Athirapally Falls was humbling. The mist kissed my face as I soaked in the grandeur.

Don’t miss A short trek to Vazhachal Falls nearby for a quieter, equally mesmerizing experience.

See Here other Best Places to Visit in Kerala With Family to Show the Attitude of Gratitude.

4. Kalpetta

I hiked the lesser-known trails leading to Chembra Peak and discovered a heart-shaped lake that took my breath away – both literally and figuratively.

Fun fact: The locals believe this lake never dries up, no matter the season.

Explore the Most Beautiful Lakes in Kerala That You Must Not Miss.

5. Aranmula

Aranmula left me speechless. I watched artisans create intricate metal mirrors (Aranmula Kannadi) and sat through a traditional Kathakali performance that brought stories to life.

The Aranmula Boat Race? Pure adrenaline. Watching those snake boats glide through the water with precision is an experience I’ll never forget.

Tip: Visit during Onam for a festive vibe.

Explore the Most Famous Festivals in Kerala.

6. Marayoor

Who knew Kerala had sandalwood forests? In Marayoor, I explored ancient dolmens (megalithic tombs) and felt like I’d stepped into history.

I also wandered through the sugarcane fields, snacking on jaggery candy made fresh by local farmers.

Must-do: Visit the sandalwood factory to learn how this fragrant wood is processed.

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Role Of Indian Holiday To Made My Trip Trouble-Free

Exploring the offbeat sounds so fascinating, but some layers of confusion come up with this excitement. I was thinking about picking up the right stay, activities, attractions, and a background thought of not missing something important while sightseeing. But the good news is that the Indian Holiday has my side and took care of everything.

Tips for Exploring the Hidden Gems of Kerala

You need to keep several things in mind that not even keep you away from disappointment but also enrich your experience.

Don’t trust google maps blindly, as it can lead you to a cow’s backyard instead of a waterfall!
Pack light, but always carry snacks—hunger strikes harder when lost in paradise.
Learn to say “nanni” (thank you) often—it’s your golden ticket to local hospitality.
Avoid heels on hiking trails and sandy shores.
Keep an eye out for sign boards—some hidden gems are so hidden that even the locals forget them.
Don’t argue with the weather—carry an umbrella and embrace the surprise showers.
Say yes to that canoe ride; otherwise, you will regret missing it when you remember your travel memories.
Respect the peace—blasting Bollywood songs in the jungle will not impress the wildlife.

SKIP The Casual KEEP The Off-Beaten!

Kerala is more than just its famed beaches. So, pack your curiosity along with your bags, and don’t just stick to the guidebooks. Let Kerala surprise you as it did me. Trust me, those beaches will still be there when you are done exploring its hidden gems. So mark your offbeat gems that amazed you from the above list and

Lokesh

A storyteller by heart, a content writer by profession, and a travel enthusiast by soul. Lokesh flows with innovation and creativity, and being with books and exploring new destinations keeps him enthusiastic.