There are more than 50 hill stations in the state if statistics are to be believed. To keep things simple and interesting, I've selected the top 10 hill stations to visit in Kerala, which are known for their pristine beauty and pleasant climate. The list then divides into forks, with the offbeat hill stations included.
Munnar
Munnar, one of Kerala's most famous hill stations, is located at the confluence of three rivers. This hill station, located at an elevation of about 1600m above sea level, is known for its unrivalled shades of green. The mist above the rolling tea-planted hills makes for a beautiful picture! Munnar is a wonderful place to unwind because it is peaceful and beautiful.
It is known as Kerala's natural spa. Don't limit yourself to city excursions; Munnar is dotted with stunning natural beauty. Some of the must-see places in Munnar include Pothamedu (6km), Devikulam (7km), Pallivasal (8km), Attukal (9km), Nyaymakad (10km), and Mattupetty (13km).
The majority of these locations are stunningly beautiful, with waterfalls, hiking trails, lakes, and dams. There are also many exciting places near Munnar, such as Top Station, where the famous Nilkurinji blooms once every 12 years, Marayoor, which is known for its abundant sandalwood, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Eravikulam National Park, which provide excellent views of South India's diverse wildlife.
Thekkady
Thekkady is a great place to see the wild side of Kerala. Thekkady, another lovely hill station in the Idukki District, is an excellent place to unwind. Far from the maddening crowds of the city, spend an uninterrupted holiday surrounded by lush flora and diverse fauna and surrounded by green rolling hills.
One of Thekkady's top attractions is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to many elephants. Elephant safaris and boat rides on Periyar Lake are popular activities in the wildlife sanctuary. Trekking is another popular activity in Thekkady, and Kurisumala is a great place to start.
Vagamon
Vagamon is a summer destination located 1200 metres above sea level. Vagamon is an ideal place to find solace and peace of mind, with its lofty green mountains, cascading waterfalls, pine forests, and meandering roads cutting through the mountains. This hill station, far from the confines of bustling city noises, can be a great weekend getaway.
You can visit Vagamon and enjoy some peace and quiet; the ideal environment allows you to practise meditation as well. Visit the famous Meenachil River, which Arundhati Roy mentions in her masterpiece 'God of Small Things.' In Vagamon, you can also see the majestic Illikal Peak, Poonjar Palace, and Maramala Waterfalls.
Ponmudi
Ponmudi is a small picturesque hill station in Kerala located about 61 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram. Ponmudi, with its pleasant climate and spectacular landscape of ravines, rivers, mountains, and forests, is one of Kerala's best hill stations. Trekking and hiking are popular activities in Ponmudi, particularly at the Agasthyarkoodam, the district's highest peak.
Every visitor here is captivated by the view of the sprawling tea gardens. Ponmudi, a little less explored, is an excellent getaway for nature lovers. There can't be anything better than being in Ponmudi with its breathtaking views and soothing weather! Ponmudi's must-see attractions include the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Deer Park, Golden Valley, and Meenmutty Falls.
Lakkidi
After a long week at the office, all one wants to do is escape to a peaceful location where the natural beauty and pleasant climate will relax one's nerves and provide a rejuvenating experience. Lakkidi in Wayanad district is exactly that. Lakkidi is a true paradise on Earth, with lofty green mountains and a tranquil environment.
What distinguishes this location is the presence of a number of luxury resorts designed to provide a comfortable and pleasant stay. Because it is a small hill station, you have a good chance of exploring the entire area on foot. The pleasant climate is an added bonus, as is the stunning scenery and serenity in the valley, where you can relax.
Vythiri
Vythiri, in Kerala's Wayanad district, is known for its scenic beauty. It is located at an elevation of about 1300m above sea level. Vythiri is a perfect holiday destination in Kerala due to its green-clad rolling hills, cascading Kabini River, and rich avifauna.
The undulating mountains provide excellent trekking opportunities, and you can also enjoy rafting, boating, and angling activities while admiring the majestic landscape beauty of the area. The main attractions in Vythiri, however, are temples and the Neolithic Edakkal Caves.
Idukki
As you enter the enthralling Idukki city, the aroma of spices entices you. The high mountains that accompany the city's picturesque setting, as well as the meandering Periyar, Thalayar, and Thodupuzha Rivers that dot Idukki's periphery, make this destination the most beautiful hill station in Kerala. Idukki, which translates as "Narrow Gorge," on the other hand, has far too much to offer its visitors.
It is the ideal location for an active vacation that includes trekking, hiking, and exploring the surrounding areas. Idukki's main attractions include the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, the Idukki Arch Dam, the Keezar Kuthu Waterfall, and the sprawling tea and spice plantations. At Idukki, you will find a rich natural repository and a pleasant climate that will provide you with an unforgettable holiday experience.
Peermade
Kerala's green shades are unique to the state; from the sprawling forests to the interspersed tea, coffee, and spice plantations, each shade of green differs and becomes appealing in its own way. Peerumedu is one such destination with a different shade of green. Peermade, a small hill station named after the Sufi Saint Peer Mohammed, is an unforgettable experience.
Kerala is home to an ancient tribal population, and you have a good chance to witness their way of life. Some of the best places to visit in and around Peermade are Kuttikkanam, Thrissanku Hills, Peeru Hills, Grampi (5 km from Peermede), and Pattumala.
Malampuzha
Malampuzha, a beautiful hill station in the Palakkad district, is a popular family vacation destination. You can plan a wonderful family vacation here because there is something for everyone, from fun-filled amusement parks to rock gardens, ropeway to fish-shaped aquarium, it caters to all family members' entertainment needs.
Tuck yourself in for an aerial tour here to get a bird's eye view of this beautiful place. Malampuzha's main attractions are the sculpture of Yaskshi (an enchantress) and the rock garden created by Padmasree Nek Chand Saini.
Mattupetty
Mattupetty is a nature lover's paradise, known for its sparkling lake and Rolling Meadows. Mattupetty, which is only a short drive from beautiful Munnar, is also known for its sprawling tea gardens and undeniable natural beauty. Don't forget to stop by the cattle shed, as Mattupetty is home to over 100 different breeds of high-yielding cattle, and it could be an entirely different experience for any visitor.
Along with exploring the wide vistas of green landscape, you can enjoy boating in Mattupetty Lake and trekking to nearby places.