6 Dreamy places to visit near Vagamon for your next day trip!

If Vagamon is your next vacay spot, you're already off to a great start. You’ve walked through pine forests, rowed across the lake, rolled down meadows, maybe even screamed your lungs out doing an adventure activity or two, par dil abhi bhi nahi bhara? Guess what? There’s a whole bunch of gems hiding just a few hours away, each with its own vibe.

Whether you're up for chill scenes or wild adventures, these places near Vagamon are totally worth the detour. So buckle up, this mini road trip around Vagamon is gonna be scenic, super fun, and totally worth it!

Thekkady

Home to the iconic Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is a lush paradise, which is all about dense forests, serene lakes, and diverse wildlife. Spot elephants, bison, and even the elusive tiger in their natural habitat. For adventure lovers, bamboo rafting across the Periyar Lake guided nature walks through misty trails, or a stroll through cardamom, pepper, and clove gardens are some of the must-dos. And when hunger strikes? Dig into Kerala-style curries made with freshly ground spices, straight from the land they grew in.

• Best time to visit: October to March (cool and dry weather)
• Top attractions: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, Spice plantations
• Drive time from Vagamon: Approximately 1 hr 30 min (49 km)

A view of wildlife in the iconic Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Kumarakom

Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is best known for its peaceful houseboat cruises, lush landscapes, and famous bird sanctuary, where migratory visitors like Siberian cranes, herons, and egrets drop by seasonally. A boat ride to Pathiramanal Island, a secluded green patch in the lake, adds to the laid-back charm. Whether you're birdwatching at dawn or simply floating through narrow canals lined with coconut palms, the vibe here is pure tranquillity. Don't miss the chance to feast on local favourites like Karimeen fry while soaking in golden sunsets from a houseboat deck.

• Best time to visit: September to March
• Top attractions: Etthumanoor Shri Mahadeva Temple, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Aruvikuzhy Waterfalls
• Drive time from Vagamon: Approximately 2 hrs (76 km)

A view of locals enjoying a boat ride in the Vembanad Lake

Alleppey

Alleppey, often dubbed the Venice of the East, is a dreamy network of canals, lagoons, and mirror-still backwaters that make it one of Kerala’s most iconic destinations. A houseboat cruise through these backwaters by gliding past paddy fields, quaint villages, and waving kids is nothing short of cinematic. Head to Alappuzha Beach, known for its historic pier and lighthouses, or explore the lush Kuttanad region, where farming is done below sea level, a rare sight in India. Whatever you choose to do, one thing’s for sure: Alleppey serves the ultimate chill experience.

• Best time to visit: November to February
• Unmissable experiences: Houseboat stays with traditional Kerala meals, Ayurvedic therapies by certified practitioners, Witnessing snake boat races during the monsoon season
• Drive time from Vagamon: Approximately 3 hrs (98 km)

A view of a houseboat in the dreamy backwaters of Alleppey

Munnar

Situated at around 1,600 metres above sea level, this former British summer retreat is a paradise for both nature lovers and slow travellers. Walk through the green plantations, sip on freshly brewed local tea, and take in the slow life of the hill station; everything here feels so cinematic. Hike up to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the rare Neelakurinji flower that blooms once every 12 years. Munnar is truly the kind of hill station that never feels overdone. And after all that exploring, unwind at The Hosteller Munnar, which will only elevate the entire experience.

• Best time to visit: October to May
• Top attractions: Munnar Tea Museum, Attukal Waterfalls, Mattupetty Dam, Top Station, Carmelagiri Elephant Park
• Drive time from Vagamon: Approximately 3 hr 12 min (94 km)

A scenic view of Munnar tea estates near a quiet lake

Fort Kochi

With a blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences, this coastal town feels like the perfect cultural hotspot. Stroll along the lanes with colonial-era buildings, peek into art cafés, and catch the golden sunsets on the town’s iconic beaches. Explore the historical monuments like St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, the Dutch Seminary, Mattancherry Palace and many others. And once you’re done soaking in all the history and charm, crash at any one of our hostels located at the heart of the town - The Hosteller Fort Kochi or The Hosteller Fort Kochi, Ocean Edge 

• Best time to visit: November to February
• Unique experiences: Watching the Chinese fishing nets in action at sunset, Walking tours through Jew Town and Fort Kochi's heritage zone, Attending a live Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performance
• Drive time from Vagamon: Approximately 3 hr 30 min (106 km)

Visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi

Suryanelli

Nestled deep in the Western Ghats, Suryanelli is an offbeat place that offers panoramic mountain views, endless tea gardens, and chilly fresh air that feels like a reset button. Unlike its more popular neighbour Munnar, this hillside village is quieter, less crowded, and all about unfiltered nature. One of the most iconic experiences here is a bumpy but breathtaking jeep ride to Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, the highest organic tea plantation in the world, especially at sunrise. Visit the tranquil Anayirankal Dam, go camping under starlit skies, or just sit by a lake with no agenda at all.

Best time to visit: October to March
Unmissable experiences: Adventron dual zipline, Meesapulimala peak, Lockhart gap viewpoint
Drive time from Vagamon: Approximately 3 hrs 30 min (102 km)

Enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and lush greenery at Suryanelli

So the next time you find yourself in Vagamon, don’t stop at just pine trails and peaceful lakes. There’s a whole world of experiences waiting just a short drive away. Chase sunsets on a beach, cruise through backwaters, or sip tea in the hills, these nearby gems make every detour worth it. Plan your route, pack your bags, and let The Hosteller be your pit stop for all things comfy, quirky, and travel-friendly!