Kerala has quietly but confidently made its way onto a global travel list that matters. The southern state has been named among The Rough Guide’s Top 26 Destinations for 2026, ranking 16th and standing out as the only destination from India to feature this year.
For seasoned travellers, this recognition comes as little surprise. Kerala has always offered something rare—the ability to slow down. While much of the world’s tourism is fast, crowded, and checklist-driven, travel in Kerala tends to move at a gentler pace. That sense of ease is a big reason the state caught the attention of global travel experts.
What makes Kerala special is how effortlessly it brings together very different experiences. One day might be spent drifting through palm-lined backwaters in Alappuzha or Kumarakom. The next could take you into the cool, misty hills of Munnar, or deep into the forests of Thekkady. Then there’s Kochi, where old spice warehouses, colonial streets, art cafés, and waterfront sunsets sit side by side. All of this, without long, exhausting journeys in between.
Wellness is another thread that runs deep here. Ayurveda retreats, yoga by the water, simple home-cooked meals, and time spent outdoors all speak to a growing desire among travellers to feel better—not just see more. Add Kerala’s festivals, traditional performances like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu, and a cuisine rooted in coconut, spice, and seafood, and the experience feels lived-in rather than staged.
The state’s approach to tourism also plays a role. Homestays, community-led initiatives, and eco-conscious travel options have allowed Kerala to welcome visitors without losing its character. Nature feels protected, culture feels real, and tourism feels personal.
With this global recognition, Kerala is likely to draw even more attention from travellers planning their trips for 2026 and beyond. But at its heart, the appeal remains unchanged. Kerala isn’t about ticking off landmarks—it’s about lingering moments, quiet beauty, and the feeling that, for a while at least, life can move a little slower.
