Monsoon Forest Escapes in Kerala: Wander into the Wild this Rainy Season
The monsoon breathes new life into the forests of Kerala, transforming them into lush, green sanctuaries alive with the sounds of rustling leaves, distant waterfalls, and chirping wildlife. For travellers looking to reconnect with nature, this is the perfect season to explore the rain-kissed wilderness of Kerala. Forest tourism in the monsoon isn’t just a visual treat—it’s a soul-stirring experience that brings you face-to-face with the raw beauty of nature.
Each region in Kerala boasts unique forest landscapes—from hilltop misty woods to mangrove sanctuaries and tropical jungles. Trekking through cloud-covered trails, camping under star-lit skies surrounded by chirping crickets, or simply walking through dew-drenched paths—these are the treasures the monsoon has to offer. The fragrance of wet earth, cool mountain air, and the sight of waterfalls in full flow make the experience magical.
When Rain Meets the Forest
This blog takes you on a journey through six exceptional destinations—Munnar, Alappuzha, Kochi, Gavi, Varkala, and Nelliyampathy—each home to some of Kerala’s most beautiful forests. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker, a casual explorer, or a family looking for a unique getaway, these monsoon forest escapes are designed to enchant and inspire.
Munnar
Munnar, nestled high in the Western Ghats, is famous not only for its emerald tea plantations but also for the Shola Forests and the Eravikulam National Park. These high-altitude rainforests are known for their dense canopy, endemic species, and cloud-kissed hills. During monsoon, the forests glisten with fresh foliage, and the trails transform into dreamy passages shrouded in mist.
Trekking and Camping: Popular treks include the Chokramudi Trail, Meesapulimala Trek, and the Lakkom Waterfalls trek—all of which take you deep into the wilderness. For campers, the eco-friendly tents and treehouses in areas like Chinnar and Suryanelli offer immersive jungle stays, making Munnar a prime destination for monsoon forest tourism.
Alappuzha
Alappuzha, best known for its tranquil backwaters, surprises many with its lesser-known gem: Pathiramanal Island, a 10-acre forested haven located in the middle of Vembanad Lake. During monsoon, the island bursts into a riot of green, welcoming migratory birds and nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.
Trekking and Camping: Although heavy trekking isn’t an option, the island offers tranquil nature walks through lush foliage and the sounds of chirping birds. Eco-lodges on the backwater banks and floating cottages provide an idyllic forest-meets-lake camping experience. A boat ride during a gentle rain is all it takes to understand the charm of Alappuzha’s forest magic.
Kochi
In the heart of Kochi city lies Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, a protected mangrove forest surrounded by high-rise buildings. Often referred to as the “green lung of Kochi,” this ecological island is home to numerous bird species, butterflies, and crabs—especially active during the monsoon season.
Trekking and Camping: Although traditional trekking is not possible here, Mangalavanam is perfect for guided nature walks, birdwatching, and educational eco-tours. Its strategic location offers urban travellers a quick forest escape without leaving the city. Several nature-themed resorts and eco-hotels in the area provide a comfortable, forest-inspired stay.
Gavi
Gavi, situated within the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is one of Kerala’s most untouched ecotourism spots. The Gavi Forest is dense, silent, and deeply spiritual—especially during the monsoon when the rainforest comes alive with rushing streams, vibrant orchids, and mysterious fog.
Trekking and Camping: Gavi is a paradise for trekkers. Popular trails, such as the Pullumedu Trail, Sabarimala Viewpoint Trek, and the Cardamom Hills Trails, offer an abundance of adventure. Camping under canvas tents or bamboo huts, approved by the forest department, provides a raw and thrilling wilderness experience. Night safaris and boat rides enhance the magic, making Gavi a true monsoon adventure destination.
Varkala
Although Varkala is synonymous with beaches and cliff views, it’s also surrounded by forested areas, such as the Sivagiri Forest Zone and Janardanaswamy Temple Woods, which become a lush sanctuary during the rains. These small forest pockets offer calm and solitude amidst sacred groves and healing Ayurvedic retreats.
Trekking and Camping: Soft trekking trails around Sivagiri Mutt and Ponnumthuruthu Island offer a leisurely pace to explore the lush, monsoon-drenched greenery. Eco-resorts nestled near these forested zones offer yoga, Ayurveda, and holistic forest stays. The fusion of sea and forest makes Varkala a unique monsoon retreat.
Nelliyampathy
Nelliyampathy, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Kerala,” is situated within the Nelliyampathy Forest Range of the Palakkad district. This high-altitude destination turns mystical during monsoon, with its forested hills, hidden waterfalls, and hairpin roads shrouded in fog.
Trekking and Camping: The Seetharkundu Viewpoint trek, Kesavan Para trails, and forest jeep safaris through the Pothundy Reservoir Range provide stunning views of rain-fed valleys. Camping amidst coffee plantations and forest-fringed estates is a popular activity in this region. The dense woods also host bison, lion-tailed macaques, and wild elephants—making Nelliyampathy a biodiversity hotspot.
Explore Monsoon Forest Magic with Unimoni Travel and Holidays
Let the monsoon guide you to Kerala’s green heart. Whether you dream of trekking through the Shola forests of Munnar, boating around a forest island in Alappuzha, or camping in the jungles of Gavi, the wild is waiting to welcome you. And who better to help plan your journey than Unimoni Travel and Holidays?
With over 24 years of experience, 10 IATA-authorized locations, and millions of satisfied travellers, Unimoni offers more than just bookings—we offer experiences. From arranging eco-friendly tours, forest treks, camping packages, and monsoon getaways to providing travel insurance, foreign exchange, and 24×7 customer care, we’re your all-in-one travel companion.
Discover the untamed beauty of Kerala’s forests this monsoon—with Unimoni, every trip becomes a story worth telling!