Hill Stations in Kerala: Misty Escapes in God’s Own Country

October 4, 2025 Rankifly SEO Agency

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, trekking through spice plantations, or sipping tea in the clouds, the hill stations in Kerala promise rejuvenation and adventure. Kerala, often celebrated for its backwaters and beaches, also hides a treasure trove of hill stations nestled in the Western Ghats. These elevated retreats offer cool climates, lush greenery, and a peaceful contrast to the coastal bustle.

Here’s a curated guide to the most captivating hill stations across the state:

🌿 1. Munnar – The Crown Jewel

Located in the Idukki district, Munnar is Kerala’s most iconic hill station. Famous for its sprawling tea estates, mist-covered hills, and Neelakurinji blooms (once every 12 years), it’s a favorite among honeymooners and nature lovers.

Highlights: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum, Attukal Waterfalls
Activities: Trekking, tea tasting, wildlife spotting

🌄 2. Wayanad – For Forest Trails & Waterfalls

Wayanad blends dense forests, spice plantations, and tribal heritage. It’s ideal for eco-tourism and adventure activities.

Highlights: Chembra Peak, Soochipara Falls, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam
Activities: Hiking, cave exploration, boating

🏞️ 3. Vagamon – A Hidden Gem

Vagamon is a quiet hill station known for its rolling meadows, pine forests, and spiritual retreats. It’s perfect for offbeat travelers seeking solitude.

Highlights: Vagamon Meadows, Kurisumala Ashram, Pine Valley
Activities: Paragliding, nature walks, meditation

🐘 4. Thekkady – Wildlife & Spice

Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady offers a blend of jungle adventure and spice-scented air.

Highlights: Periyar Lake, Mangala Devi Temple, spice gardens
Activities: Boating, elephant rides, forest treks

🌺 5. Ponmudi – The Golden Peak

Just 55 km from Thiruvananthapuram, Ponmudi is a lesser-known hill station with winding roads, tea estates, and butterfly-filled valleys.

Highlights: Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Meenmutty Falls
Activities: Trekking, birdwatching, photography

🌳 6. Idukki – For Scenic Solitude

Idukki is a district dotted with hill stations, dams, and wildlife sanctuaries. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.

Highlights: Idukki Arch Dam, Hill View Park, Kalvari Mount
Activities: Sightseeing, nature photography

🌲 7. Peermedu – Colonial Charm

Named after Sufi saint Peer Mohammed, Peermedu is a peaceful hill station with colonial bungalows and cardamom plantations.

Highlights: Thrissanku Hills, Kuttikanam, Peeru Hills
Activities: Plantation walks, heritage exploration

🏞️ 8. Lakkidi – Gateway to Wayanad

Often called the “Cherrapunji of Kerala,” Lakkidi receives heavy rainfall and offers lush views and cool breezes.

Highlights: Pookode Lake, Chain Tree
Activities: Boating, scenic drives

📅 Best Time to Visit Kerala’s Hill Stations

October to March: Cool and pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities
June to September: Monsoon magic with misty landscapes and lush greenery (great for romantic getaways)

Kerala’s hill stations are more than just elevated escapes — they’re windows into the state’s soul. Whether you’re sipping tea in Munnar or trekking through Wayanad’s forests, each hill station offers a unique blend of serenity, culture, and natural beauty.