Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Day Trips

 1. Kovalam Beach

 15 km | 30–40 minutes

 Why Visit?

• One of the most famous beaches in India
• Relax at Lighthouse Beach, try surfing or parasailing, or enjoy Ayurvedic massages
• Cafés, seafood, and vibrant beach life

 Tip: Visit early morning or evening to avoid the midday sun.

 2. Ponmudi Hill Station

 55 km |1.5–2 hours

 Why Visit?

• Mist-covered hill station at 1,100 m altitude
• Ideal for nature walks, trekking, tea plantations, and birdwatching
• Scenic drive with 22 hairpin bends

 Tip: Carry a light jacket—weather is cool and breezy.

 3. Poovar Island & Estuary

 30 km | 1 hour

 Why Visit?

• Explore the tranquil backwaters, mangroves, and golden beach
• Boat rides through the estuary where river, lake, and sea meet
• Great for photography and a romantic escape

 Tip: Sunset cruises are stunning—book in advance for best experience.

 4. Padmanabhapuram Palace

 50 km (in Tamil Nadu) | 1.5 hours

 Why Visit?

• A stunning 16th-century wooden palace of Travancore kings
• Admire carvings, murals, antique furniture, and royal architecture
• A slice of Kerala-Tamil cultural blend

 Tip: Closed on Mondays. Photography is limited inside, but the architecture is unforgettable.

 5. Varkala Beach & Cliff

 50 km | 1.5 hours

 Why Visit?

• Unique red cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea
• Chill beach cafes, yoga retreats, and scenic walking paths
• Visit Janardanaswamy Temple and Papanasam Beach for spiritual vibes

 Tip: Perfect for a relaxed day of sunset views, seafood, and coastal shopping.

 6. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Dam

 30 km | 1 hour

 Why Visit?

• Explore forest trails, a crocodile rehab center, lion safari, and a scenic dam
• Spot elephants, deer, and exotic birds
• Nature-filled picnic option close to the city

 Tip: Combine with a visit to Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashram nearby.

 7. Agasthyakoodam Trek (Seasonal)

 Base at Bonacaud (~60 km) | Trek: Full-day

 Why Visit?

• Sacred peak named after Sage Agastya
• One of the highest peaks in Kerala (1,868 m)
• Trekking allowed during Jan–March with permits

 Tip: Only fit trekkers allowed; strictly eco-sensitive—no plastic, no noise.

 8. Meenmutty & Kombaikani Waterfalls

 Near Neyyar Dam | 1.5–2 hours

 Why Visit?

• Hidden waterfalls inside forest areas
• Requires light trekking through Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Perfect for those who love nature, silence, and adventure

 Tip: Best visited post-monsoon (Sep–Feb). Go with a guide or forest official.

 9. Vellayani Lake

 12 km | 30 minutes

 Why Visit?

• One of the largest freshwater lakes in Kerala
• Peaceful spot for evening walks, boating, or photography
• Near the famous Vellayani Devi Temple

 Tip: Visit during Vellayani festival (once every 3 years) for a cultural experience.

 10. Kanyakumari – The Southern Tip of India

 90 km | 2–2.5 hours

 Why Visit?

• Stand at the southernmost tip of mainland India
• Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Temple
• Watch the sunrise and sunset over three seas

 Tip: Start early and make a full-day trip with return by evening.