What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in Kerala, India?

For budget travellers in Kerala, exploring the backwaters is a must. A ferry ride through Alleppey's backwaters is significantly cheaper than a houseboat. Munnar's tea plantations offer stunning views without hefty entrance fees; a trek through them is free. Similarly, hiking up to viewpoints in Vagamon or exploring the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala are free activities. Many temples, such as the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, have minimal or no entry fees.

What are the best hostels in Kerala?

Among the hostels in Kerala, Zostel Ooty , Zostel Kodaikanal and Roambay are the most popular ones.

What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in Kerala, India?

Beyond the usual tourist trail, consider exploring the spice plantations of Wayanad, offering a glimpse into Kerala's agricultural heritage. The hill station of Ponmudi, with its lush greenery and waterfalls, is relatively less crowded. Bekal Fort, a historic fort with stunning coastal views, is another hidden gem. For a unique experience, visit the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Kerala?

Back Packers Cochin Villa , Santa Maria Hostel Munroe Island and The Hosteller Wayanad are the best hostels with a pool in Kerala.

What fun and budget-friendly events or festivals are happening in Kerala, India?

Onam, Kerala's harvest festival, is a vibrant spectacle with boat races, cultural performances, and delicious food. Theyyam, a ritualistic dance form, is performed in various temples throughout the year, often free to watch. Numerous local temple festivals occur throughout the year, offering a glimpse into Kerala's religious traditions. These are usually free to attend though offerings are customary.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Kerala?

The best hostels for families and kids in Kerala are The Little Blue Window Hostel , Molly's Hostel and Cornerbunker .

What are the best nightlife spots in Kerala, India?

Fort Kochi offers a lively nightlife scene with several bars and pubs along the waterfront. Kovalam beach also has a number of beachside shacks and bars that stay open late. Larger cities like Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram have a variety of clubs and pubs catering to different tastes, but the atmosphere is generally more relaxed than in other parts of India.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Kerala?

The best pet friendly hostels in Kerala are Zostel Kodaikanal , Roambay and Hostelexp - Varkala - A Beach Town Hostel .

What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Kerala, India?

A minimum of 10-14 days allows for a good exploration of Kerala's diverse regions, from the backwaters to the hill stations and beaches. However, to truly appreciate the state's nuances, a longer trip of 21 days or more is recommended to explore at a more leisurely pace.

What are the best hostels with parking in Kerala?

Zostel Ooty , Zostel Kodaikanal and Roambay are the best hostels with parking in Kerala.

Does Kerala, India offer any iconic natural events?

The monsoon season (June to September) brings spectacular waterfalls and lush greenery across Kerala. Witnessing the changing landscapes during the monsoon is a unique experience. The annual sand sculptures at Kovalam beach during specific festivals are a visual treat.

Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Kerala, India?

Many places offer Kathakali dance workshops, providing insights into this classical dance form. Cooking classes focusing on Kerala cuisine are readily available. You can also find workshops on traditional Kerala art forms like Theyyam painting or making traditional handicrafts.

How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Kerala, India?

Staying in homestays provides opportunities to interact with local families and learn about their way of life. Participating in local festivals and events allows for immersion in the culture. Visiting smaller villages and interacting with people in local markets provides authentic cultural experiences.

Which restaurants and bars in Kerala, India offer the best local cuisine?

Many restaurants in Fort Kochi serve traditional Kerala cuisine. Smaller eateries and restaurants in towns and villages often offer more authentic and less expensive meals. Try the seafood restaurants along the coast for fresh catches. Specific restaurant names vary and change frequently, so local recommendations are always best.

What unique packing tips should you keep in mind for Kerala, India?

Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for both hot and humid weather and occasional rain. Mosquito repellent is essential, especially during the monsoon season. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. A light raincoat or umbrella is also advisable.

Kerala Hostels at the Best Price

9.2 14 reviews

A Loft

hostel, Alleppey

A Loft is situated in Alleppey, just 0.6 kilometres from Alleppey Beach and 2.7 kilometres from Alappuzha Lighthouse.
The 23 square metre hostel offers a garden, terrace, and shared lounge, with a capacity of four guests, and features air conditioning, free parking, and Wi-Fi.

8.7 283 reviews

The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road

hostel, Varkala

The Hostel Stories, Varkala, is situated on Helipad Road, Varkala, offering convenient proximity to Varkala Beach and other nearby beaches.
This adults-only guesthouse features a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a terrace, garden, and includes a vegetarian breakfast; airport transfers and bicycle rentals are available.

8.6 258 reviews

Xplorest

hostel, Mysore

Xplorest is a hostel in Mysore, a short walk from Civil Court Mysuru and about a 20-minute walk from Mysore Junction Station, offering a convenient location for exploring the city. It has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The hostel has a shared kitchen and lounge, ideal for meeting fellow travellers. It also offers a garden, terrace, and a playground, providing opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a 24-hour front desk, and garden views from some rooms.

9.2 228 reviews

The Birdhouse Backpackers Hostel

hostel, Coonoor

The Birdhouse Backpackers Hostel is located in Coonoor, a charming hill station in the Nilgiris district, just 23 kilometres from Ooty Lake and 3 kilometres from Sim's Park, offering easy access to the area's natural beauty. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with excellent scores for location and cleanliness.
The hostel features a single bedroom and bathroom, providing a comfortable and private stay. Guests can enjoy a serene garden setting, free Wi-Fi, and parking, as well as the convenience of being close to Ooty Botanical Gardens, Ooty Bus Station, and Ooty Train Station.

8.5 161 reviews

Mellow Ladies Hostel

hostel, Varkala

Mellow Ladies Hostel is located in Varkala, just 0.5 km from Odayam Beach, offering easy access to the beautiful coastline and the relaxed atmosphere of the area. The hostel has excellent user, location and cleanliness ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel has one bedroom and one bathroom, accommodating a single guest. Amenities include air conditioning, a terrace, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, evening entertainment, a shared lounge, allergy-free rooms, and parking.

8.6 424 reviews

The Hosteller Ooty

hostel, Ooty

The Hosteller Ooty is conveniently located in Ooty, within walking distance of the Rose Garden, Ooty Lake, and the bus and train stations. The hostel is highly rated for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a single bedroom with a private bathroom and comfortable bedding. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property and are within easy reach of various attractions, including Ooty Doddabetta Peak, Gymkhana Golf Course, Sim's Park, and Pykara Lake.

8.9 85 reviews

Dream Nest Beach House

hostel, Alappuzha

Dream Nest Guest House, a guesthouse in Alleppey, is located 1 kilometre from the city centre and near Alappuzha Beach.
This pet-friendly guesthouse offers one bedroom, one bathroom, a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, on-site restaurant, BBQ area, and additional services including laundry and car rental.

8.9 362 reviews

The Chill House

hostel, Cochin

The Chill House is located in Fort Kochi, a 2 kilometre walk from Fort Kochi Beach and 1 kilometre from the Kochi Biennale, making it easy to explore the historic and cultural attractions of the area. The hostel has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness and overall user experience.
The hostel features comfortable single bedrooms, each with a floor area of 15 square metres. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, a terrace, free Wi-Fi, parking, room service and air conditioning.

8.6 323 reviews

Palace Hostel By Borrbo

hostel, Mysore

Palace Hostel by Borrbo is conveniently located in Mysore, close to popular attractions like Mysore Palace, DRC Cinemas Mysore, and GRS Fantasy Park. It has received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall user experience.
The hostel offers a single bedroom with a floor area of 18 square meters and can accommodate one guest. Amenities include a shared kitchen, lounge, garden, and terrace, as well as free Wi-Fi, table tennis, bike rental, and luggage storage.

8.6 132 reviews

Holiday Villa

hostel, Thekkady

Holiday Villa is located in Thekkady, just a short distance from the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, making it an ideal base for exploring the area's natural beauty. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The accommodation features comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and a shared lounge, providing a relaxing space to unwind after a day of exploring. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, private parking, and a terrace or balcony with views of the surrounding mountains and city.

9.8 139 reviews

Shamak Homestay Varkala

hostel, Varkala

Shamak Homestay, a recently renovated guesthouse in Varkala, Kerala, is a 1km walk from Varkala Beach and within 1km of Odayam Beach, Sivagiri Mutt, and Ponnumthuruthu Island.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom homestay sleeps two, offering free Wi-Fi, private parking, a garden, and a terrace; selected rooms have balconies, and all include a wardrobe, private bathroom with bidet, and free toiletries.

8.9 115 reviews

Falls Regency

hostel, Kaliyal

Falls Regency, in Kaliyal, is conveniently located 24 kilometres from Padmanabhapuram Palace, 29 kilometres from Poovar Island, and 31 kilometres from the Poovar Backwaters.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse offers a terrace, garden, spa, restaurant, room service, parking, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site water park; it also provides airport transfers and a kids' club.

Best Kerala hostels with breakfast included

Among the 1238 accommodations in Kerala, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast included

10 3 reviews

The Hosteller Bam Coorg

hostel, Coorg

The Hosteller Bam, Coorg, is located in Mekeri village, near Madikeri, offering a base for exploring Coorg's coffee plantations and hills, with proximity to hidden waterfalls and ancient temples.
This accommodation provides internet, air conditioning, a swimming pool, a garden, and parking, and serves as an ideal starting point for trekking and discovering Karnataka's landscapes.

9.1 38 reviews

Sky's Surf Hostel

hostel, Varkala

The Bunkghar Varkala by Outlive is situated in Varkala, Kerala, a short walk from Aaliyirakkm Beach and 2.6 km from Varkala Beach, offering convenient access to Janardhanaswamy Temple (1 km).
This one-bedroom guesthouse provides air conditioning, a terrace, garden, spa, parking, and shared kitchen facilities, plus bike rentals for exploring the area.

8.4 41 reviews

Monkey Tribe Alleppey

hostel, Alleppey

Monkey Tribe Alleppey, a hostel in Alleppey, is located just 180 metres from Alleppey Beach and 1.1 kilometres from Alappuzha Lighthouse.
This establishment offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, free WiFi, an on-site restaurant, and free private parking, with an optional paid airport shuttle service available for transfers to Cochin International Airport, 80 kilometres away.

9.6 14 reviews

Moonrise Kingdom Permaculture Farm Stay

hostel, Hura

Moonrise Kingdom Permaculture Farm Stay is situated in Hura, approximately 43 kilometres from Mysore and its key attractions, including Mysore Palace and Mysore Junction railway station.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom property offers guests a peaceful countryside retreat with private parking, a terrace, pet-friendly accommodation, and an included vegetarian breakfast; nearby activities include visits to St Philomena's Church and Chamundi Vihar Stadium.

Top cities

Best Kerala hostels with a locker

9.6 204 reviews

Course Of Life Alleppey

hostel, Alleppey

The Course of Life Alleppey hostel is located on the shores of Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, just a short distance from Alleppey's picturesque water canals and other tourist attractions. This hostel has received excellent user ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for connecting with other travellers. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including air conditioning, a fitness centre, a terrace, a garden, and free parking, as well as activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and yoga.

8.3 209 reviews

Kochill - Relax & Stay -

hostel, Cochin

Kochill - Relax & Stay - is located in the Fort Kochi district, just a short walk from the beach, the Kochi Biennale, and the Indo-Portuguese Museum, making it ideal for exploring Cochin's rich history and culture. This hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for meeting fellow travellers, as well as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a tour desk to help you plan your excursions. You can also enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant or relax in the hostel's common areas.

9.2 59 reviews

Zostel Kochi, Kumbalangi

hostel, Cochin

Kampify Kochi, a guesthouse in Kochi, is situated approximately 8km from Chammanad Devi Temple and within 13-16km of attractions including Mattancherry Palace and the Kerala Folklore Museum.
This single-bedroom property offers free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a shared lounge, free Asian breakfast, free bikes, and a peaceful garden; Ernakulam Junction railway station is 16km away, and Cochin International Airport is 40km distant.

9.6 70 reviews

3 Hills Hostel

hostel, Wayanad

3 Hills Hostel is situated in Wayanad, Kerala, just 13.7 kilometres from Pookode Lake, 16 kilometres from Kanthanpara Waterfalls, and 17.7 kilometres from Lakkidi Viewpoint. The hostel enjoys a tranquil setting, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It has received excellent user ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel has a 37 square metre room, accommodating one guest. It features a range of amenities and activities, including a restaurant, a garden, a tennis court, a fitness centre, a spa, and free bikes for exploring the surrounding area.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Kerala

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit in Kerala, India?
For budget travellers in Kerala, exploring the backwaters is a must. A ferry ride through Alleppey's backwaters is significantly cheaper than a houseboat. Munnar's tea plantations offer stunning views without hefty entrance fees; a trek through them is free. Similarly, hiking up to viewpoints in Vagamon or exploring the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala are free activities. Many temples, such as the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, have minimal or no entry fees.
What are the best hostels in Kerala?
Among the hostels in Kerala, Zostel Ooty, Zostel Kodaikanal and Roambay are the most popular ones.
What are some unmissable, lesser-known spots in Kerala, India?
Beyond the usual tourist trail, consider exploring the spice plantations of Wayanad, offering a glimpse into Kerala's agricultural heritage. The hill station of Ponmudi, with its lush greenery and waterfalls, is relatively less crowded. Bekal Fort, a historic fort with stunning coastal views, is another hidden gem. For a unique experience, visit the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Kerala?
Back Packers Cochin Villa, Santa Maria Hostel Munroe Island and The Hosteller Wayanad are the best hostels with a pool in Kerala.
What fun and budget-friendly events or festivals are happening in Kerala, India?
Onam, Kerala's harvest festival, is a vibrant spectacle with boat races, cultural performances, and delicious food. Theyyam, a ritualistic dance form, is performed in various temples throughout the year, often free to watch. Numerous local temple festivals occur throughout the year, offering a glimpse into Kerala's religious traditions. These are usually free to attend though offerings are customary.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Kerala?
The best hostels for families and kids in Kerala are The Little Blue Window Hostel, Molly's Hostel and Cornerbunker.
What are the best nightlife spots in Kerala, India?
Fort Kochi offers a lively nightlife scene with several bars and pubs along the waterfront. Kovalam beach also has a number of beachside shacks and bars that stay open late. Larger cities like Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram have a variety of clubs and pubs catering to different tastes, but the atmosphere is generally more relaxed than in other parts of India.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Kerala?
The best pet friendly hostels in Kerala are Zostel Kodaikanal, Roambay and Hostelexp - Varkala - A Beach Town Hostel.
What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Kerala, India?
A minimum of 10-14 days allows for a good exploration of Kerala's diverse regions, from the backwaters to the hill stations and beaches. However, to truly appreciate the state's nuances, a longer trip of 21 days or more is recommended to explore at a more leisurely pace.
What are the best hostels with parking in Kerala?
Zostel Ooty, Zostel Kodaikanal and Roambay are the best hostels with parking in Kerala.
Does Kerala, India offer any iconic natural events?
The monsoon season (June to September) brings spectacular waterfalls and lush greenery across Kerala. Witnessing the changing landscapes during the monsoon is a unique experience. The annual sand sculptures at Kovalam beach during specific festivals are a visual treat.
Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Kerala, India?
Many places offer Kathakali dance workshops, providing insights into this classical dance form. Cooking classes focusing on Kerala cuisine are readily available. You can also find workshops on traditional Kerala art forms like Theyyam painting or making traditional handicrafts.
How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Kerala, India?
Staying in homestays provides opportunities to interact with local families and learn about their way of life. Participating in local festivals and events allows for immersion in the culture. Visiting smaller villages and interacting with people in local markets provides authentic cultural experiences.
Which restaurants and bars in Kerala, India offer the best local cuisine?
Many restaurants in Fort Kochi serve traditional Kerala cuisine. Smaller eateries and restaurants in towns and villages often offer more authentic and less expensive meals. Try the seafood restaurants along the coast for fresh catches. Specific restaurant names vary and change frequently, so local recommendations are always best.
What unique packing tips should you keep in mind for Kerala, India?
Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for both hot and humid weather and occasional rain. Mosquito repellent is essential, especially during the monsoon season. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. A light raincoat or umbrella is also advisable.

Nearby regions

Best Kerala hostels with air conditioning

8.7 162 reviews

V R S Luxury Ac & Non Ac Male Dormitory

hostel, Mysore

V R S Luxury AC Dormitory in Mysore is conveniently located 0.3km from Mysore Bus Stand, 0.6km from Dodda Gadiyara, and 1.4km from Mysore Palace.
This air-conditioned single-room dorm offers 10 square metres of space, a shared bathroom, free Wi-Fi, a safety deposit box, and a flat-screen TV, accommodating one guest.

8.7 213 reviews

Green Woods Bethlehem

hostel, Cochin

Green Woods Bethlehem is situated in Cochin, just 1.3 kilometres from Fort Kochi Beach and 1.3 kilometres from the Kochi Biennale, making it a convenient base for exploring the city's historical and cultural attractions. The guest house has a very good user rating and an excellent location rating.
The accommodation features family rooms and a sun terrace, ideal for families and groups. Guests can enjoy a garden, a fitness room, a bar, and a range of services including 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, free Wi-Fi, daily room service and a delicious vegetarian breakfast.

8.9 118 reviews

Anantha Guest House

hostel, Trivandrum

Anantha Guest House offers a single-bedroom guesthouse in Thiruvananthapuram, a short 0.3km walk from the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple and within 4km of Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station and the Napier Museum.
This air-conditioned room features a private bathroom with bidet, free toiletries, a desk and flat-screen TV, providing comfortable accommodation for one or two guests close to numerous cultural and historical sites.

8.7 823 reviews

The Hosteller Fort Kochi

hostel, Cochin

The Hosteller Fort Kochi is located in the Fort Kochi district of Cochin, just a short walk from Fort Kochi Beach and the Kochi Biennale, offering easy access to the area's rich cultural and historical attractions. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel features a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for meeting fellow travellers and sharing stories. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and a terrace for relaxing and taking in the views.

Best Kerala hostels with laundry available

8.0 107 reviews

Sunny's Holiday Homes

hostel, Kollam

Sunny's Holiday Homes, a guest house in Kollam, is located 2.6 kilometres from Kollam Train Station and 6.3 kilometres from Thangassery Light House.
This non-smoking accommodation offers one bedroom and one bathroom for up to five guests, with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a terrace, and a garden, plus private parking.

9.7 53 reviews

Pepper Jazz Varkala

hostel, Varkala

Pepper Jazz Varkala, a recently renovated guesthouse, is situated in Varkala, Kerala, a short distance from Aaliyakam and Varkala beaches and within walking distance of the Janardhanaswamy Temple, approximately 40 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom property offers a private patio and terrace with courtyard views, a fully equipped kitchen, pet-friendly accommodation, air conditioning, free internet, parking, and a choice of breakfast options including continental, full English/Irish, or Italian.

9.2 4 reviews

Hues Hostel By Aish

hostel, Trivandrum

Hues Hostel by Aish is located in Trivandrum, approximately 10 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and 13 kilometres from Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple and Napier Museum.
This 30 square metre hostel offers 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, and can accommodate up to 7 guests, featuring complimentary WiFi, a shared kitchen and dining area, a garden, and a balcony with city views.

8.1 22 reviews

Xplorest Hospitality Llp

hostel, Mysore

Xplorest Hospitality Llp is a well-rated hostel in Mysore offering complimentary Wi-Fi, an on-site kitchen, air conditioning, and a garden, with a family-like atmosphere and a terrace or balcony. This accommodation is conveniently located in Mysore, providing easy access to local attractions and amenities, and features 1 bathroom.

Hostels in Kerala

1238 Hostels in Kerala

A Loft

The Hostel Stories, Varkala - Helipad Road

Xplorest

The Birdhouse Backpackers Hostel

Mellow Ladies Hostel

The Hosteller Ooty

Dream Nest Beach House

The Chill House

Palace Hostel By Borrbo

Holiday Villa

Shamak Homestay Varkala

Falls Regency

Best Kerala hostels with breakfast included

The Hosteller Bam Coorg

Sky's Surf Hostel

Monkey Tribe Alleppey

Moonrise Kingdom Permaculture Farm Stay

Top cities

Best Kerala hostels with a locker

Course Of Life Alleppey

Kochill - Relax & Stay -

Zostel Kochi, Kumbalangi

3 Hills Hostel

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Kerala

Nearby regions

Best Kerala hostels with air conditioning

V R S Luxury Ac & Non Ac Male Dormitory

Green Woods Bethlehem

Anantha Guest House

The Hosteller Fort Kochi

Best Kerala hostels with laundry available

Sunny's Holiday Homes

Pepper Jazz Varkala

Hues Hostel By Aish

Xplorest Hospitality Llp