Kerala isn’t just about backwaters and beaches—it’s a highland haven waiting to be explored. Hill Stations in Kerala offer a cooler, quieter side of “God’s Own Country,” where misty peaks, tea-scented breezes, and forested trails create the perfect setting for romance, adventure, and soul-soothing retreats. Whether you're a honeymooner, a trekker, or a content creator chasing cloud-kissed views, Kerala’s hill stations deliver with charm and altitude.

From the iconic slopes of Munnar to the hidden gems of Ponmudi and Peermedu, these elevated escapes are ideal for year-round travel.

?️ Top Hill Stations in Kerala You Must Visit

Based on Thrillophilia, Trawell.in, and TravelTriangle, here’s a curated list of the most scenic and culturally rich hill stations across the state:

1. Munnar – The Crown Jewel

• Altitude: 5,200 feet

• Why Visit: Endless tea plantations, Eravikulam National Park, and dreamy viewpoints like Top Station and Pothamedu.

• Best For: Honeymooners, photographers, and tea lovers

2. Wayanad – Forested Bliss

• Altitude: 2,300–4,000 feet

• Why Visit: Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Falls, Banasura Sagar Dam, and wildlife sanctuaries.

• Best For: Trekkers, families, and nature enthusiasts

3. Vagamon – Offbeat & Serene

• Altitude: 3,300 feet

• Why Visit: Pine forests, meadows, and paragliding spots.

• Best For: Couples, solo travelers, and adventure seekers

4. Ponmudi – The Golden Peak

• Altitude: 3,000 feet

• Why Visit: Near Trivandrum, known for misty roads, butterfly parks, and lush valleys.

• Best For: Weekend getaways and nature walks

5. Thekkady – Spice & Safari

• Altitude: 2,900 feet

• Why Visit: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spice gardens, and bamboo rafting.

• Best For: Wildlife lovers and eco-tourists

6. Peermedu – Colonial Charm

• Altitude: 3,000 feet

• Why Visit: Named after Sufi saint Peer Mohammed, known for plantations and heritage bungalows.

• Best For: History buffs and peaceful retreats

7. Lakkidi – Gateway to Wayanad

• Altitude: 2,300 feet

• Why Visit: Rainforest vibes, hairpin bends, and panoramic viewpoints.

• Best For: Road trippers and monsoon travelers

8. Malampuzha – Garden City of the Hills

• Altitude: ~1,000 feet

• Why Visit: Rock garden, ropeway, and dam-side views.

• Best For: Families and day trips

9. Athirapally – Waterfall Wonderland

• Altitude: ~1,000 feet

• Why Visit: Famous for Athirapally Falls and lush forest trails.

• Best For: Nature lovers and photographers

10. Thiruvambadi – Hidden Gem

• Altitude: ~1,200 feet

• Why Visit: Near Kozhikode, known for rubber plantations and quiet escapes.

• Best For: Offbeat explorers

? Best Time to Visit Hill Stations in Kerala

? What to Pack for a Highland Trip

• Light woolens and rain jackets

• Trekking shoes and quick-dry clothing

• Camera and binoculars

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

• Reusable water bottle and snacks

? Photography Tips

Kerala’s hill stations are a dream for content creators:

• Golden Hour: Early morning mist and sunset silhouettes

• Tea Estate Patterns: Use drone or wide-angle lenses

• Wildlife & Flora: Macro shots of butterflies, orchids, and spice plants

• Monsoon Drama: Long exposure for waterfalls and fog trails

?‍?‍? Family-Friendly Hill Station Picks

• Munnar: Easy access, toy train, and tea museum

• Thekkady: Wildlife boat rides and spice garden tours

• Malampuzha: Ropeway, gardens, and picnic zones

? Romantic Highland Escapes

• Vagamon: Pine forest walks and secluded stays

• Munnar: Candle-lit dinners in plantation resorts

• Ponmudi: Scenic drives and butterfly trails

? Wellness & Nature Retreats

Some hill stations offer:

• Ayurvedic spas in Thekkady and Peermedu

• Yoga retreats in Wayanad and Vagamon

• Forest meditation walks in Ponmudi and Lakkidi

? Sample Hill Station Tour Packages

? Why Explore Hill Stations in Kerala?

Here’s why these elevated escapes are worth the journey:

• Diverse Landscapes: From tea estates to spice forests

• Accessible & Offbeat: Options for both popular and hidden gems

• Cultural Integration: Tribal villages, colonial bungalows, and local cuisine

• Eco-Tourism Friendly: Kerala promotes sustainable travel and conservation

• Year-Round Appeal: Different hill stations peak in different seasons

Hill Stations in Kerala aren’t just destinations—they’re moods. Whether you're sipping chai in a misty Munnar balcony, trekking through Wayanad’s forested trails, or watching clouds roll over Vagamon’s meadows, each hill station invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with nature’s rhythm.