Hidden gems in Kerala

Rolling meadows and pine forests in the Kerala highlands, a quieter alternative to Munnar with a similarly cool climate and far fewer coach tours.

Gavi sits inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, so entry is regulated by the Forest Department — you generally need a permit or a booked eco-tourism package to visit, which is exactly where a local guide earns its keep.

Beyond the well-known viewpoints, Wayanad's forest and tribal-village side has less-touristed corners that reward a guide's local knowledge rather than a map.

Varkala is known for its cliff beach, but the quieter northern stretch and the Sivagiri hill nearby see far fewer visitors than the main promenade.

• Best time to visit is September to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
• Hire a local guide for trekking or permit-controlled areas such as Gavi.
• A well-planned 5 to 7 day itinerary is usually enough to cover 2 to 3 of these alongside the popular sites.