Kerala is a traveller’s paradise, blessed with green valleys, spectacular beaches, verdant mountains, beautiful rivers, rich wildlife and a pleasant climate. It is a perfect holiday destination for those who want to experience the mesmerising beauty of nature. Whether it is a family vacation or a memorable honeymoon trip, this South Indian state is a fantastic choice.
There are many popular tourist destinations in the southern and central parts of the state, such as Munnar, Thekkady, Kumarakom and Kovalam. However, many travellers are still less familiar with the awe-inspiring tourist places of North Kerala. The northern part of Kerala is equally captivating and offers a fascinating mix of beaches, hills, wildlife, historical sites and cultural attractions.
If you are planning a trip to North Kerala, the following are some of the must-visit places:
- Wayanad
- Bekal (Kasaragod)
- Kozhikode (Calicut)
- Palakkad
- Kannur
These destinations showcase the diverse landscapes, history, culture and natural beauty of northern Kerala. Wayanad is known for its forests, waterfalls, plantations and wildlife, while Kannur and Kasaragod are renowned for their beaches, forts and traditional art forms. Kozhikode offers a rich maritime history and beautiful coastal attractions, while Palakkad is known for its scenic landscapes, historic sites and forests.
Also Check Out: Popular Kerala Tour Packages
Bekal
If you are thinking about where to go for a holiday in Kerala, Bekal is a good choice. It is a charming destination in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. A well-preserved fort and a beautiful beach are the main attractions of this tourist destination. Bekal is located on the scenic shores of the Arabian Sea, about 16 kilometres south of Kasaragod town.
Built in the 17th century, Bekal Fort is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala. The fort is known for its distinctive keyhole shape and was built primarily for defence purposes. Its massive laterite walls and tall bastions offer panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, surrounding villages and the coastline. The observation tower also provides impressive views of the nearby landscape.
Do not leave this historic fort without enjoying the spectacular sunset views. Bekal Beach, located close to the fort, is another major attraction where visitors can enjoy the scenic coastline. There are also several hotels and resorts in and around Bekal, offering comfortable accommodation for travellers.
- Nearest Domestic & International Airport: Mangalore International Airport (approximately 75–80 km from Bekal Fort)
- Nearest Railway Station: Kanhangad Railway Station (approximately 9–12 km); Kasaragod Railway Station is another convenient option, about 15–16 km away.
Chembra Peak in Wayanad
Chembra Peak is a must-visit tourist spot for people planning a vacation in North Kerala. Located in Wayanad, one of the most popular hill destinations in the state, Chembra Peak fascinates travellers with its rugged landscape and scenic beauty of the Western Ghats. Standing at an elevation of about 2,100 metres above sea level, it is the highest peak in Wayanad.
Chembra Peak is a favourite destination for adventure lovers and trekking enthusiasts. The route passes through lush greenery and tea plantations, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. One of its major attractions is a naturally formed heart-shaped lake, locally known as Hridaya Thadakam or Hridaya Saras, located along the trekking route.
The peak is visible from many parts of Wayanad, and on clear days, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Wayanad and parts of the neighbouring Kozhikode, Malappuram and Nilgiri regions. However, trekking beyond the heart-shaped lake towards the summit is currently restricted due to wildlife activity. Visitors should obtain the required permission from the Forest Department before undertaking the permitted trek.
- Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport, approximately 95–100 km away
- Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station, approximately 90–91 km away
Edakkal Caves in Wayanad
Edakkal Caves are among the top places to visit in North Kerala because of their historical and archaeological importance. Located in the Ambukuthi Hills of Wayanad, these prehistoric rock shelters contain fascinating pictorial drawings and engravings that provide evidence of ancient human settlements in the region. Some of the oldest engravings are believed to date back to around 6000 BCE, making Edakkal an important site for understanding the prehistoric history of Wayanad.
Despite being known as caves, Edakkal Caves are actually a natural rock shelter formed when a large boulder became wedged between two larger rocks. The name ‘Edakkal’ itself means ‘a stone in between’. Visitors can see engravings depicting human figures, animals, tools and other aspects of ancient life. The site has also yielded evidence of habitation from different periods, making it an interesting destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
To reach Edakkal Caves, visitors have to travel to the base of the Ambukuthi Hills and then make an uphill climb to the rock shelter. The site is located about 3 km from Ambalavayal and around 26.6 km from Kalpetta. Visitors should check the latest opening hours and entry regulations before planning their visit, as timings and access can change.
- Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport, approximately 90 km from Wayanad; the cave site is further from the airport depending on the route.
- Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station, the nearest major railway station to Wayanad.
Silent Valley in Palakkad
Even though there are many must-visit places in North Kerala, Silent Valley holds a special place. It is an ideal destination to experience the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats. Located in the Nilgiri Hills of the Palakkad district, Silent Valley National Park is one of Kerala’s most important tropical evergreen forest regions. The park is home to more than 1,000 species of flowering plants and around 110 species of orchids.
Besides its rich flora, visitors can discover a wide variety of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and insects. The park is particularly known for species such as the lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, Malabar giant squirrel, elephants and tigers. Its largely undisturbed tropical evergreen forests provide an important habitat for a remarkable range of flora and fauna.
Silent Valley National Park covers a core area of about 89.52 sq. km and is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Due to its protected status, tourism and visitor activities are regulated, and access to certain areas requires permission from the Forest Department.
- Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport, approximately 77 km away
- Nearest Railway Station: Palakkad Junction (Olavakode), approximately 52 km away
Beaches in Kozhikode
If you are a beach lover, never forget to visit the lovely beaches of Kozhikode. Even though there are many other major attractions in this district, travellers visiting North Kerala should take some time to explore its beautiful coastline. Kozhikode Beach, Kappad Beach and Beypore Beach are among the well-known coastal attractions in the district.
It is wonderful to visit these beaches in the evening and enjoy spectacular sunset views. You will also love taking leisurely walks with your friends or loved ones along the shore. The lush coconut groves, golden sands and scenic views of the Arabian Sea add to the charm of these coastal destinations. Kappad is also known for its historical significance, while Beypore is famous for its historic port, traditional Uru boat-building and maritime heritage.
- Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station
It is an amazing experience for holidaymakers, honeymoon couples and nature lovers to travel through North Kerala and explore its scenic landscapes and remarkable tourist attractions. Contact Tour My India to plan your Kerala holiday and explore attractive North Kerala travel packages for a memorable holiday experience.
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
About the author
From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.
+91-9212777225
Plan Your trip
