10 Best Places for a One Day Trip in Kerala with Family or Friends

Kerala, has been honored with global responsible tourism award in 2023 and  has a plethora of places to visit. Family, friends, or solo – plenty of options for all. Keralas mind-blowing natural beauty and gorgeous landscapes are a testimony to its pristine climate and ethereal scenic views. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world visit this magnificent place in appreciation of its enormous attractions. These are just some of the best places for a one day trip in Kerala that offer diverse experiences to make your visit truly memorable.

List of  Places for a One Day Trip in Kerala

Dreaming of a quick escape from the daily grind? Imagine a one-day trip from vibrant destinations in Kerala, from Delhi, Chennai , Mumbai or Bangalore?

Beyond the usual talk of vacations and weekends, the idea is to discover a rejuvenating break for a One Day Trip in Kerala amid hectic routines and stressful jobs. Amidst weeks of tedious work and running between home and office, the thought of a day off becomes a breath of fresh air. The beauty of a one-day trip is that it won’t dent your wallet or create workplace issues. Delve into the best places for a single-day trip in Kerala, promising a stress-free day to unwind and recharge your body and mind.

You can either plan for a long trip or a one day trip in Kerala. For people who prefer to venture into a mini vacation, here is a list of places for one day trip in Kerala.

1. Kanthaloor, Munnar

 

Munnar is one of the incredible best places for one day trip in Kerala with family.  Kanthalloor is a village in Munnar which won a gold medal for the best tourism villages from the Government of India.  Kanthalloor Village achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first panchayat in the country to introduce women-friendly tourism practices through collaborative programs with UN Women. Notable initiatives included the implementation of the ‘destination security’ scheme and the development of special women-oriented tour packages. Situated in close proximity to the renowned Munnar in the Idukki district, Kanthalloor Village initially participated in the ‘PEPPER’ participatory tourism initiative before transitioning to the STREET project. This transformation was made possible through active community engagement and the dedicated efforts of the village panchayat.

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Nestled in the majestic Western Ghats mountain ranges, the quaint hill station is a paradise on earth. It is a mesmerizing experience to immerse in its astonishing beauty – adorned with lush green mountains, pristine valleys, beautiful hamlets, and the spread of spice and tea plantations through huge acres of land. For adventure lovers, there are plenty of activities to indulge in like – hiking, trekking, walking across the mountain trails and amid the plantations, safaris, and camping.

The key attractions in Kanthallooor and Munnar are:

1. Mattupetty Dam
2. Eravikulam National Park
3. Anamudi Peak
4. Echo Point
5. Tata Tea Museum
6. Pothamedu View Point
7. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
8. Lakkom waterfalls
9. Chinnar wildlife sanctuary
10. Attukad waterfalls
11. Carmelagiri Elephant park

The best time to visit Kanthalloor

The pleasant and comfortable climate of Kanthalloor in Munnar helps tourists to plan for a visit any time of the year. Still, the best time to visit is between September and March, when the climate is at its best.

How to reach Kanthalloor?

Munnar is a hill station, hence it does not have its own airport or railway stations. If you want to travel by air, then the nearest airport is at Kochi from where you have to travel a distance of 125 km by road to reach Munnar. For people traveling by rail, the nearest railway station is at Aluva, 110 km distance away. If you want to travel from different parts of Kerala or the nearby states by road, then it is a good recommendation as the enigmatic beauty of Munnar is a treat to the eyes.

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2. Idukki Dam

Idukki is a quiet and peaceful place, away from the humdrum of daily life. It is one of the most exotic places for one day trip in Kerala. You can spend quality time in the vicinity of nature, calm and in solitude. The weather is cozy and comfortable, perfect to chill out with friends and family. If you want to engage in some interesting activities, then Idukki has innumerable opportunities like trekking, hiking, camping, boating, walking, and safaris. Additionally, Idukki houses various sightseeing spots for tourists to venture out like dams, waterfalls, parks, lakes, and forests. These astounding attractions embellish Idukki with their enchanting flora and fauna.

The key attractions in Idukki are:

1. Idukki dam
2. Kalvari Mount
3. Ramakkalmedu
4. Meesapulimala
5. Cheeyappara waterfalls
6. Anayirankal dam reservoir
7. Panchalimedu
8. Valara waterfalls
9. Sita Devi lake
10. Hill View park
11. Chathurangapara view point

 

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Best time to visit Idukki

Like Munnar, Idukki can be visited any time of the year mainly due to its pleasing climate. The weather is almost soothing throughout the year. But if you still want to churn out the best of the environment at Idukki, then you can select the winter season between November and February for your visit.

How to reach Idukki

To reach Idukki, you can either travel by air or reach the nearest airport at Kochi which is 132 km away from Idukki. Or you can reach the nearest railway station at Theni, 60 km distance away from Idukki. You can also travel by road via buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

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3. Periyar National Park, Thekkady

For wildlife lovers, Periyar National Park in Thekkady is one of the good options and best places for one day trip in Kerala. The national park is the residence of numerous animal and bird species, You can observe them in their natural habitat, a desire for every wildlife admirer. The park offers night walks and safaris for the visitors. You can opt for any of them and move around to entertain yourself with the breathtaking flora and fauna. There are various kinds of wild plants, trees, and flowers in the park for you to be acquainted with. Some of the popular birds and animals in the park are the Bengal tiger, leopards, sambar deer, Indian bison, and lion-tailed macaques.

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The key attractions in Periyar National Park are

1. Guided cloud walk for 3 to 4 hours
2. Camping inside the jungle
3. Bamboo rafting and hiking
4. Tiger trail trekking and camping
5. Jungle patrol
6. Boating on Periyar Lake
7. Touring around Abraham’s spice garden
8. Walking along the Connemara tea factory and witnessing the tea plantations and production

Best time to visit Periyar National Park

Almost every place in Kerala is good to visit throughout the year and the Periyar National Park is not an exception. But if you are eager to witness the greenery at its peak then the monsoons are the best time to visit, the months between September and October.

How to reach Periyar National Park

Kottayam is the nearest railway station, located at a distance of 97 km from the park, and can be availed via cabs, and buses. Kochi is the nearest airport, 150 km away from the park. If you want to travel by road, then you can check out the private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

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4. Wayanad

Wayanad is a place, adorned with scenic views and picturesque environments. It is truly one of the breathtaking places for one day trip in Kerala with family and friends. The lush green vegetation and the foliage bring in a sense of calmness and pristine feeling to the people visiting this awesome place. If you are an adventure lover, then you will love to be involved in many activities like hiking, trekking, nature walks, and safaris. For bird watchers, it is an awesome place to watch many local and migrating birds. Another exciting experience at Wayanad is to stay in a treehouse, an eco-friendly option to soak into the magnificent atmosphere around. Moreover, if you love to mingle with the local tribals and be familiar with their life and culture, then you can willingly do so.

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The key attractions in Wayanad are:

1. Edakkal caves
2. Lakkidi view point
3. Soocipara waterfalls
4. Kanthanpara waterfalls
5. Chembra peak
6. Pookode lake
7. Wayanad wildlife sanctuary
8. Banasura Sagar dam
9. Meenmutty waterfalls
10. Bansura hill
11. Karapuzha dam

Best time to visit Wayanad

Wayanad is best during the winter season between the months of November and February. The weather is soothing and ideal for a vacation. Days and nights are quite charming to stroll around in the city.

How to reach Wayanad

If you want to avail the rail, then the best is to reach Kozhikode railway station and travel a distance of 110 km by cab or bus to reach Wayanad. The other option is to travel via air. The nearest airport is at Calicut, 54 km away from Wayanad. By road options are also available, you can try to avail of private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws.

5.Kumarakom

 

Kumarakom is one of the most fascinating and enticing places for one day trip in Kerala. Located at the banks of Lake Vembanad, Kumarakom is a famous for backwaters and houseboat trips. If you are a bird watcher, then Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a perfect place for you. Do not miss cruising along the lake  in a houseboat and immerse yourself in nature’s scintillating beauty. You can observe various species of  both local and migratory birds. Kumarakom is famous for Ayurvedic treatments, spa therapy, and meditation practices and you can avail of the facilities for a healthy lifestyle.  Kumarakom is one of the best places for one day trips from Kochi

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The key attractions in Kumarakom are:

1. Kumarakom bird sanctuary
2. Vembanad lake
3. Aruvikuzhy waterfalls
4. Kumarakom craft museum
5. Pathiramanal island
6. Kumarakom backwaters
7. Kottayam locality
8. Vagamon locality
9. Vaikom Mahadeva temple
10. Thanneermukkom Bund bridge
11. Ettumanoor Shri Mahadeva temple

Best time to visit Kumarakom

The weather at Kumarakom is soothing and charming, and humidity is less especially between the months of September and March. Hence it is the best time to visit Kumarakom.

How to reach Kumarakom

By air, the best option is to reach the nearest airport at Kochi, which is 80 km away from Kumarakom. By rail, the nearest railway station is at Kottayam, a traveling distance of 16 km from the city. Another option to reach Kumarakom is by boat ride from Muhamma. You can also avail private and public buses, cabs, and autorickshaws to travel via road.

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6. Ponmudi, Kerala

An offbeat destination, Ponmudi in Kerala is one of the spectacular places for one day trip in Kerala. Nestled within the Western Ghats and surrounded by gushing waterfalls, meandering streams, sparkling springs, lush green tea and spice plantations, sloping mountains, and dense wild forests – it’s truly an ecstatic experience at Ponmudi. For adventure lovers, there are plenty of options for hiking and trekking, immersing into mind-blowing fauna and flora. You can observe the famous Agadthyakoodam peak from this place. There are options for Ayurvedic treatments and therapies at Ponmudi, so do not forget to avail the opportunity.

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The key attractions in Ponmudi are:

1. Kallar Meenmutty falls
2. Ponmudi Upper Sanatorium
3. Peppara wildlife sanctuary
4. Neyyar dam
5. Ponmudi hilltop
6. Agasthyamalai
7. Veli Lake Tourist village
8. Shendurney wildlife sanctuary
9. Mankayam waterfalls
10. Koyikkal palace
11. Varkala beach

The best time to visit

The months between October and March are the best and preferred time to visit Ponmudi. The town blooms with nature’s splendid aura and charm, indeed creating a sensational experience and an opportunity to mingle in its beauty.

How to reach

Ponmudi can be accessed via road as there are plenty of buses from various parts of the state and nearby cities. Both the nearby airport and railway stations are at Thiruvananthapuram, 60 km away from Ponmudi.

7.Alleppey, Kerala

Alleppey is part of the Kuttanad region, often referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala.” This low-lying region is known for its vast paddy fields, unique farming practices below sea level, and scenic landscapes. Alleppey is home to beautiful beaches, including Alappuzha Beach. The coastline provides a serene setting for relaxation and offers picturesque views of the Arabian Sea. The pier at Alappuzha Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

A visit to Kerala is incomplete without Alleppey. So if you get a chance to be on a one-day trip to Kerala, then do not miss out on this popular backwater destination , flourishing with greenery and the backwaters. The place is frequented by tourists from all over the world and throughout the year. It offers an idyllic experience of cruising along the backwaters in a houseboat while treating the eyes to the magnificent landscape and the scenic beauty. The houses of the fishermen along the banks of the backwaters add a rustic charm to the entire place. You can visit the village and munch on some seafood delicacies. Watching the local and migrator birds is another enticing activity at Alleppey.

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The key attractions in Alleppey are:

1. Alappuzha lighthouse
2. Alappuzha beach
3. Marari beach
4. Krishnapuram palace
5. Kumarakom bird sanctuary
6. Punnamada lake
7. St. Andrew’s Basilica
8. Thumpoly beach
9. Sree Krishna Swamy temple
10. Pathiramanal island
11. Chakkulathukuva Sree Bhagavathi temple

Best time to visit Alleppey

The temperature at Alleppey is extremely soothing and the weather is pleasant during the winters mostly. Months between October and February are preferable. However, you can visit at other times of the year to avoid the crowds.

How to reach Alleppey

Alleppey has its own railway station hence it’s easy to travel via rail. If you are traveling by air then the nearest airport is at Kochi, 75 km away from Alleppey. Otherwise, you can avail of buses and cabs to reach Alleppey.

8.Kochi

 

Kochi serves as the gateway to Kerala, given its strategic location along the Arabian Sea. The city has played a crucial role in the cultural and economic exchanges between India and other nations. Kochi, also called Cochin, boasts a rich historical legacy as a prominent port city that has facilitated trade for centuries, drawing merchants from diverse regions—Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Known for its cultural diversity, Kochi is a unique fusion of Indian, Arab, Chinese, and European influences. Fort Kochi, with its well-preserved colonial architecture, harbors landmarks like Santa Cruz Basilica and the burial site of Vasco da Gama. The iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, a symbol of Kochi, operate through an ancient mechanical method. Jew Town hosts the historic Paradesi Synagogue, while the Kochi-Muziris Biennale celebrates contemporary art. Marine Drive offers scenic views, and Mattancherry Palace showcases murals from the Ramayana. Cochin International Airport is globally recognized for its solar-powered operations, and Kochi’s spice markets reflect its historical ties to the spice route.

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The key attractions in Kochi are:

1. Mattancherry palace
2. Indo-Portuguese museum
3. Santa Cruz Basilica
4. Ernakulam Shiva temple
5. Paradesi Synagogue
6. Kodanad Elephant training center
7. Fort Kochi
8. Fisherman’s Khauf

Best time to visit Kochi

The best time to visit Kochi is the Months between October and February. The weather is calm and pleasant with a soothing breeze.

How to reach Kochi

The best thing about Kochi is it has its own railway station and airport. You can go to different parts of the city by bus and cab.

9.Kollengode, Palakkad

Kollengode, in Kerala’s Palakkad district, is not just a village; it’s a cultural wonderland with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and religious importance. Just 26 km from Palakkad town, it’s now a popular destination with loads to offer. Here’s what makes Kollengode a must-visit:

In the past, it was ruled by the Vengunad Swaroopam, a fancy title given by Hyder Ali in the 18th century. The rulers, known as Vengunad Nambidis, had a strong influence. This history adds a unique charm to Kollengode.

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Now, the village is a treasure trove of historical and religious spots. The Kollengode Palace, showcasing traditional Kerala architecture, is like a time capsule with artifacts and paintings from the Vengunad dynasty. The Kachamkurissi Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an ancient marvel among the 108 Divya Desams. Add in the Seetharkundu Waterfall, Govindamalai Hill, and Nelliyampathy Hills, and you get the perfect blend of culture and nature.

The key attractions in Kollengode  are:

1. Kollengode Palace
2. Kachamkurissi Temple
3. Seetharkundu Waterfall
4. Govindamalai Hill
5. Nelliyampathy Hills

Best time to visit Kollengode

The best time to visit Kollengode s the Months between October and February. You have a good chance of sighting the green paddy fields and hills and hence should not miss the opportunity.

How to reach

The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 70 km away from Coimbatore. The nearest railway station is at Palakkad, 26 km away from Kollengode. Buses and cabs are available from the various cities of Kerala to reach the place.

10.Kannur

Kannur is a small town, bearing similarity to Kochi in terms of its historical significance. Along with its enigmatic natural beauty, Kannur is a witness to many monuments, historical structures, ancient ruins, and many other buildings from the yesteryears. It is indeed one of the phenomenal places for one day trip in Kerala. Being located near the beach, you can stroll along while enjoying the sea waters.

The key attractions in Kannur are:

1. Payyambalam beach
2. Muzhappilangad beach shoreline
3. St. Angelo Fort
4. Snake park
5. Baby beach
6. Arakkal museum
7. Vismaya water park
8. Aralam wildlife sanctuary
9. Ezhara beach

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Kannur is during the winter, months between November and February. You will love the slight chill in the air, refreshing as well as pure.

How to reach

The nearest airport is at Kochi, 128 km away from Thekkady. Kannur has its own railway station. Buses and cabs are also available from the various parts of Kerala to reach the place.

Hope the listing of the places for one day trip in Kerala will be of real help and you can easily plan for your vacation or a weekend getaway with your family and friends and even solo and enjoy your one day trip in Kerala.

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When you embark on a one day trip in Kerala, you can choose to gracefully sail along the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey or immerse yourself in the tranquil landscapes of Wayanad. Whichever path you take, Kerala assures you a day filled with indelible memories. Whether drifting lazily on a houseboat, surrounded by picturesque greenery in Alleppey, or finding solace in the serene ambiance of Wayanad’s natural wonders, each experience promises to etch moments of beauty and tranquility into your memory. Kerala, with its diverse landscapes and cultural richness, ensures a one-day escape brimming with the magic of unforgettable encounters.