Published by: PEAK Business Consultancy Services | Website: www.ourtaxpartner.com
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- 1. Munnar
- 2. Alappuzha (Alleppey)
- 3. Thekkady
- 4. Varkala
- 5. Wayanad
- 6. Kumarakom
- 7. Athirappilly
- 8. Kovalam
- 9. Nelliyampathy
- 10. Ponmudi
- Conclusion
Introduction
Kerala, the “God’s Own Country”, is blessed with lush greenery, scenic hills, tranquil beaches, and peaceful backwaters. If you’re looking for a quick escape from the city grind, a weekend road trip within Kerala can be your perfect mini vacation. Here are 10 of the best weekend getaways in Kerala that are easily accessible by road from major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and Thrissur.
1. Munnar
Distance: ~130 km from Kochi | Best Time: September to March
Set in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a haven for tea lovers and nature enthusiasts. Its rolling tea gardens, misty hills, and cool climate make it a top weekend escape.
- Visit Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, and Eravikulam National Park
- Ideal for trekking, photography, and plantation walks
2. Alappuzha (Alleppey)
Distance: ~60 km from Kochi | Best Time: November to February
Famous for its houseboat cruises along palm-lined canals, Alleppey offers a laid-back weekend in the backwaters.
- Enjoy a houseboat stay or sunset boat ride on Vembanad Lake
- Visit Alappuzha Beach, Mullakkal Temple, and Krishnapuram Palace
3. Thekkady
Distance: ~155 km from Kottayam | Best Time: October to February
Thekkady is a wildlife lover’s delight with the famous Periyar Tiger Reserve and serene spice plantations.
- Go for boating in Periyar Lake, spot elephants, or take bamboo rafting
- Great for nature walks and eco-tourism
4. Varkala
Distance: ~45 km from Thiruvananthapuram | Best Time: September to March
Varkala is known for its dramatic cliffs and serene beaches. It’s a peaceful alternative to the more touristy Kovalam.
- Relax at Papanasam Beach, visit Janardanaswamy Temple
- Enjoy cliffside cafes and Ayurvedic massages
5. Wayanad
Distance: ~85 km from Kozhikode | Best Time: October to May
Wayanad is a road-tripper’s paradise with waterfalls, forests, and spice plantations.
- Explore Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Falls, Banasura Sagar Dam
- Ideal for trekking, camping, and wildlife spotting
6. Kumarakom
Distance: ~16 km from Kottayam | Best Time: September to February
Famous for bird watching and backwater tourism, Kumarakom is perfect for a rejuvenating weekend in nature.
- Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Pathiramanal Island
- Enjoy a relaxing houseboat ride or village tour
7. Athirappilly
Distance: ~55 km from Thrissur | Best Time: June to September (monsoon)
Home to Kerala’s largest waterfall, Athirappilly is known as the “Niagara of India.”
- Marvel at Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls
- Great for short treks, scenic drives, and bird photography
8. Kovalam
Distance: ~15 km from Thiruvananthapuram | Best Time: September to March
Kovalam is one of the most popular beach getaways in Kerala, known for its crescent-shaped coastline.
- Relax at Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach
- Try surfing, catamaran rides, or Ayurvedic treatments
9. Nelliyampathy
Distance: ~60 km from Palakkad | Best Time: October to March
A lesser-known gem in the Western Ghats, Nelliyampathy is ideal for a quiet mountain retreat.
- Visit Seetharkundu Viewpoint, Pothundy Dam, and coffee plantations
- Great for bike rides and exploring winding forest roads
10. Ponmudi
Distance: ~55 km from Thiruvananthapuram | Best Time: October to February
Ponmudi is a beautiful hill station famous for its winding roads and misty peaks.
- Drive through 22 hairpin bends to reach the summit
- Visit Golden Valley, Meenmutty Falls, and Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving mountains, beaches, waterfalls, or tranquil backwaters, Kerala offers the perfect road-trip destinations for a memorable weekend. All the spots listed above are well-connected by roads and can be comfortably explored over 2–3 days. So pack your bags, fuel up your vehicle, and let Kerala’s scenic charm refresh your soul. For travel planning and professional trip coordination support, feel free to contact PEAK Business Consultancy Services.
