Kerala Monsoon Bucket List: 70+ Must-Visit Spots Across All 14 Districts

From mist-draped hills to thunderous waterfalls, discover the best monsoon destinations in Kerala.

Kerala during the monsoon isn’t just a season—it’s a living story.

Raindrops dancing on lush green leaves. Hills wrapped in mist. Forest paths that come alive with the rhythm of the rain. If you’ve ever wondered where to travel in Kerala during the rains, this is your complete guide to the best monsoon destinations in Kerala.

We’ve compiled 70+ handpicked monsoon spots from all 14 districts, so no matter where you’re headed, you’ll find waterfalls to chase, viewpoints to hike, and backwaters to drift through.

Whether you’re looking for monsoon treks in Kerala, road trip ideas, or lesser-known rain escapes—this list has it all.

Thiruvananthapuram: Rain-Kissed Trails & Forest Escapes

• Ponmudi – Cloud-covered hill station perfect for a weekend escape.
• Meenmutty Falls – A jungle gem not to be confused with the one in Wayanad.
• Kallar Meenmutty Waterfalls – A twin-treat near Kallar, best after light rain.
• Vazhvanthol Falls – Forest trekker’s delight.
• Mankayam Waterfalls – Great for a short hike and refreshing dip.

Kollam: Where Waterfalls & Forests Meet

• Thenmala – Kerala’s first eco-tourism hub.
• Palaruvi Falls – One of the most iconic monsoon waterfalls in Kerala.
• Rosemala – A hidden hill retreat with panoramic views.
• Ambanad & Chaliyakkara – Rolling plantations and misty trails.
• Achankovil Region – Home to Kumbhavurutty and Manalar Waterfalls.

Pathanamthitta: Eco Adventures & Tribal Forest Trails

• Gavi Forest Route – A must-drive through misty jungles.
• Adavi Eco-Tourism – Don’t miss the coracle ride on the Kallar River.
• Manpilav Waterfalls – Quiet and uncrowded.
• Mannera Falls – A lesser-known cascade near the forest.
• Aruvikuzhi Falls – Scenic and accessible.

Alappuzha: When the Rain Touches the Backwaters

• Houseboat Cruise – Best enjoyed in light drizzle.
• Punnamada Lake – Serene and glassy in early monsoon.

Kottayam: Cliff Views & Waterfall Wonders

• Illikkal Kallu – One of Kerala’s most photogenic peaks.
• Kattikkayam Falls – Hidden gem requiring a short trek.
• Ilaveezha Poonchira – Valley of flowers and rain clouds.
• Marmala Falls – A dramatic waterfall in dense greenery.

Idukki: The Heart of Monsoon Trekking in Kerala

• Meesapulimala – A popular monsoon trek in Kerala.
• Ramakkalmedu – Known for fierce winds and scenic views.
• Aanayadikuth & Thooval Falls – Beautiful mid-elevation cascades.
• Ripple Falls, Irachilpara & Njandirukki Falls – Ideal for waterfall hopping.
• Panchalimedu & Swargam Medu – Mythology and mist rolled into one.

Ernakulam: Forest Drives & Hidden Falls

• Mamalakkandam – Foggy roads and forest ambience.
• Vadattuppara & Areekkal Falls – Easy to reach and scenic.
• Kochareekkal Caves – Combine this with a waterfall visit.
• Shoolam Falls – A quick escape for city travelers.

Thrissur: Sacred Groves, Forest Streams & Rainy Hill Escapes

• Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary – Ideal for monsoon jungle treks and birding.
• Vazhachal & Charpa Falls – Along the Athirappilly route, spectacular in full flow.
• Athirappilly Waterfalls – The ‘Niagara of South India’ roars during the rains.
• Poomala & Vilangan Hills – Great for short drives with panoramic views.
• Cheppara Rock – A lesser-known monsoon viewpoint with dramatic skies.
• Kuthampully – Combine rain walks with a visit to Kerala’s traditional weaving village.

Palakkad: Valleys, Reserves & Rain-Fed Greens

• Nelliyampathy – Hairpin curves and tea estates in mist.
• Silent Valley National Park – A pristine biodiversity hotspot.
• Parambikulam – Perfect for wildlife + rain forest lovers.
• Kollengode – Great for quiet scenic drives.

Malappuram: Rainy Hilltop Escapes

• Keralamkund & Aadyanpara Falls – Stunning and remote.
• Kakkadampoyil – Magical in the monsoon.
• Mini Ooty – Panoramic viewpoint in the clouds.

Kozhikode: Misty Forests & Monsoon Treks

• Kariyathumpara – A dreamy picnic spot.
• Thusharagiri Waterfalls – A cluster of powerful waterfalls.
• Urakkuzhy Waterfalls – Lesser known but lovely.

Wayanad: Where the Monsoon Lives

• Chembra, Banasura & Brahmagiri Treks – Ideal for trekkers.
• 900 Kandi & En Ooru – Tribal tourism and monsoon forests.
• Soochipara & Kanthanpara Falls – Safe for families.

Kannur: Offbeat Treks & Cloud Towns

• Paithalmala – A top choice for monsoon trekking.
• Manjappullu & Palakkayam Thattu – Often mist-covered and photogenic.
• Ezharakkundu Waterfalls – Great for explorers.
• Kaappimala Village – Green, remote, and rejuvenating.

Kasargod: Misty Meadows & Hill Escapes

• Ranipuram – Known as the Ooty of the North.

Monsoon Travel Tips for Kerala

• Check local rain and flood alerts before planning.
• Avoid waterfalls during heavy flow or red alerts.
• Wear shoes with good grip—rocks are slippery.
• Plan to return before dusk.
• Follow local guidelines, especially near forests and tribal areas.

Want Our Full Monsoon Trek List?

We’ve curated monsoon treks across Kerala with permit info, dates, costs, and packing tips.

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