Top 6 Stunning Beaches Around Thekkady for a Perfect Monsoon Escape
Thekkady, nestled in the verdant hills of Kerala’s Idukki district, is globally known for its spice plantations, lush forests, and the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. But what many international and domestic travelers might overlook is that Thekkady also serves as a strategic launchpad to some of South India’s most breathtaking and serene beaches—many of which become even more magical during the monsoon.
As the monsoon clouds sweep across Kerala between June and September, the entire region transforms into a lush green paradise. While hill stations like Thekkady are typically associated with nature trails and wildlife sightings, the coastal gems within a 2–5-hour drive offer a contrasting escape—where dramatic waves crash against golden sands, and coastal towns come alive with seasonal festivals, local flavors, and fewer tourist crowds.
Here’s a curated list of Top 6 Stunning Beaches Near Thekkady that promise a perfect monsoon getaway for every kind of traveler—whether you’re a nature lover, solo backpacker, or family on holiday.
1. Marari Beach – The Serene Canvas of Malabar
Distance from Thekkady: ~160 km (Approx. 4.5-hour drive)
Nearest Town: Mararikulam, Alappuzha
Voted by National Geographic as one of the world’s top hammock beaches, Marari Beach remains a pristine escape with fewer crowds. Monsoon skies cast an ever-changing palette over the Arabian Sea, creating postcard-perfect views. Eco-resorts and Ayurvedic retreats dot the coastline, offering a tranquil alternative to the more commercial beaches of Kerala.
Why during monsoon?
The rain-drenched coconut groves and quiet shoreline make it ideal for introspection, yoga, and spa therapies.
2. Alleppey Beach – Where Monsoon Meets the Backwaters
Distance from Thekkady: ~155 km (Approx. 4-hour drive)
Nearest Town: Alappuzha
Alleppey (or Alappuzha) is best known for its backwaters, but the beach here deserves equal attention. The 150-year-old Alleppey Lighthouse, often shrouded in mist during monsoon mornings, provides sweeping views of the choppy sea. Houseboat stays are popular year-round, and the monsoon adds a romantic touch to the overall experience.
Unique feature:
Take a backwater cruise during the day and watch the rain fall gently on the canals, then walk along the beach in the evening as the sun sets behind monsoon clouds.
3. Kollam Beach – The Less Explored Coastal Beauty
Distance from Thekkady: ~200 km (Approx. 5-hour drive)
Nearest Town: Kollam (Quilon)
Often overshadowed by Kovalam, Kollam Beach offers solitude and stunning views of the Arabian Sea, especially during the rainy season. With a lighthouse, adventure park, and nearby Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam becomes an ideal combination of beach and backwater tourism.
Why it stands out:
Less crowded and well-connected by rail and road, it’s a hidden gem perfect for photographers and travel bloggers chasing Kerala’s monsoon charm.
4. Varkala Beach – Where Cliffs Meet the Ocean
Distance from Thekkady: ~210 km (Approx. 5.5-hour drive)
Nearest Town: Varkala
Varkala Beach, or Papanasam Beach, is one of Kerala’s most dramatic seaside destinations. It’s the only beach in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea. The monsoon intensifies the rugged beauty of these cliffs, with waves crashing below and rain clouds looming above.
What to expect:
Yoga retreats, Ayurvedic centers, seafood cafes, and the iconic Janardanaswamy Temple, all enhanced by the rhythmic sound of rain.
5. Cherai Beach – Tranquil Waters Near Kochi
Distance from Thekkady: ~185 km (Approx. 5-hour drive)
Nearest Town: Kochi
Cherai Beach, located on the northern edge of Vypin Island near Kochi, offers a peaceful coastline with calm waters and golden sands. The beach is fringed by paddy fields and coconut palms, making it an ideal setting for relaxed monsoon walks.
Monsoon Tip:
The beach is great for watching lightning storms over the ocean from the safety of seaside resorts or beachfront cafes. During lighter showers, dolphin sightings are also reported offshore.
6. Kovalam Beach – Monsoon Magic at Kerala’s Most Iconic Shoreline
Distance from Thekkady: ~240 km (Approx. 6-hour drive)
Nearest Town: Thiruvananthapuram
Kovalam needs no introduction—it’s Kerala’s most internationally recognized beach. But during the monsoon, the crowds thin out and the beach takes on a misty, mystical aura. Its three crescent-shaped beaches—Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach—are dotted with local vendors, wellness retreats, and European-style cafes.
Why choose Kovalam in monsoon?
Surfing conditions are intense for adventure seekers, and the Ayurvedic wellness centers offer exclusive monsoon rejuvenation packages.
Why a Monsoon Beach Escape Near Thekkady?
Travelers who explore beyond Thekkady’s forest canopy in monsoon months are rewarded with a multi-dimensional Kerala experience. You can spot elephants in the Periyar reserve one day, and be enjoying coastal monsoon rains with seafood platters the next. The proximity of beaches to Thekkady makes for a perfect two-in-one itinerary that balances highland serenity with coastal vigor.
Travel Tips for Monsoon Coastal Travel in Kerala:
Weather: Heavy showers can disrupt transport, so always check weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out.
Safety First: Some beaches may have rough tides; follow local advisories before venturing into the sea.
Stay Hydrated and Protected: While the monsoon cools the climate, tropical humidity still exists. Carry mosquito repellents and rain gear.
Book in Advance: Monsoon discounts are common, but the best wellness resorts and beachfront homestays get booked early.
Final Word
For travelers seeking a refreshing twist on the usual beach vacation, the beaches around Thekkady during the monsoon offer not just stunning scenery, but a soul-soothing, immersive escape. From the cliffs of Varkala to the quiet shores of Marari, these coastal jewels showcase the dramatic beauty of Kerala in its rain-washed glory.