Kerala, often celebrated for its backwaters and beaches, hides another treasure in its highlands—the enchanting hill stations in Kerala. Nestled in the folds of the Western Ghats, these mist-clad retreats offer lush tea gardens, spice plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries that make them perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, and nature escapes.
Whether you’re chasing cool mountain air, scenic treks, or tranquil stays, Kerala’s hill stations promise a refreshing change from the tropical coast.
🏞️ Top Hill Stations in Kerala You Must Visit
Here’s a curated list of the most popular and picturesque hill stations across the state:
1. Munnar
- Altitude: 1,600 meters
- Highlights: Tea estates, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, Mattupetty Dam
- Best For: Honeymooners, trekkers, photographers
Often called the “Swiss of South India,” Munnar is Kerala’s crown jewel. The rolling hills carpeted with tea plantations and the rare Neelakurinji blooms (once every 12 years) make it a dream destination.
2. Wayanad
- Altitude: 700–2,100 meters
- Highlights: Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipara Falls
- Best For: Adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, cultural explorers
Wayanad blends tribal heritage with natural beauty. Its spice gardens, forest trails, and prehistoric caves offer a unique mix of thrill and tranquility.
3. Thekkady
- Altitude: ~900 meters
- Highlights: Periyar Tiger Reserve, spice plantations, boating on Periyar Lake
- Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts, families, nature lovers
Thekkady is Kerala’s wildlife capital. Spot elephants and tigers from a boat, walk through spice gardens, or trek through dense forests.
4. Vagamon
- Altitude: 1,100 meters
- Highlights: Pine forests, meadows, Kurisumala, paragliding
- Best For: Couples, offbeat travelers, meditation retreats
Vagamon is a serene hill station with rolling meadows and spiritual vibes. It’s ideal for those seeking peace and poetic landscapes.
5. Ponmudi
- Altitude: 1,100 meters
- Highlights: Golden Valley, tea estates, trekking trails
- Best For: Weekend getaways, nature walks, birdwatching
Located near Thiruvananthapuram, Ponmudi is a quick escape into misty hills and winding roads.
6. Idukki
- Altitude: ~1,200 meters
- Highlights: Idukki Arch Dam, wildlife sanctuaries, spice gardens
- Best For: Scenic drives, eco-tourism, photography
Idukki is a district dotted with hill stations, waterfalls, and dense forests. It’s a paradise for nature lovers.
7. Peermedu
- Altitude: ~915 meters
- Highlights: Coffee and spice plantations, waterfalls, trekking
- Best For: Quiet retreats, plantation stays
Named after Sufi saint Peer Mohammed, Peermedu is a peaceful hill station with colonial charm.
8. Lakkidi
- Altitude: ~700 meters
- Highlights: Viewpoints, misty valleys, Pookode Lake
- Best For: Scenic drives, romantic escapes
Often called the “Gateway to Wayanad,” Lakkidi offers dramatic views and lush greenery.
9. Gavi
- Altitude: ~1,000 meters
- Highlights: Eco-tourism, forest camping, wildlife
- Best For: Off-grid travelers, nature enthusiasts
Gavi is a hidden gem near Thekkady, known for its untouched wilderness and sustainable tourism.
10. Athirapally
- Altitude: ~300 meters
- Highlights: Athirapally Falls, rainforest treks
- Best For: Waterfall lovers, film buffs (featured in many Indian movies)
Though not a traditional hill station, Athirapally’s forested terrain and dramatic waterfalls make it a must-visit.
📅 Best Time to Visit Hill Stations in Kerala
- October to March: Cool and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and trekking
- April to June: Summer escape from the coastal heat
- July to September: Monsoon magic with mist and waterfalls (some areas may be slippery)
🧳 Travel Tips
- Pack Layers: Even in summer, hill stations can get chilly at night
- Book Early: Munnar and Wayanad get busy during peak season
- Explore Locally: Try plantation walks, tribal village visits, and local cuisine
- Stay Eco-Friendly: Respect nature trails and avoid littering
🏨 Where to Stay
- Luxury: Spice Tree Munnar, Vythiri Resort Wayanad, Thekkady Wild Corridor
- Mid-Range: Greenwoods Thekkady, Silver Brook Estate Wayanad
- Budget: Homestays in Vagamon, eco-lodges in Gavi, guesthouses in Ponmudi
🧭 Final Thoughts
The hill stations in Kerala are more than just elevated escapes—they’re soulful sanctuaries where nature, culture, and serenity converge. Whether you’re sipping tea in Munnar, trekking through Wayanad’s forests, or watching elephants in Thekkady, each hill station offers a unique slice of “God’s Own Country.”
With the right itinerary, Kerala’s highlands become not just a destination—but a rejuvenating experience.
