Best Couple Photoshoot Locations in Kerala
The best couple and honeymoon photoshoot locations in Kerala, from Munnar tea gardens to Varkala cliffs, with timing and outfit tips.
A couple photoshoot has become one of the most requested add-ons on our Kerala honeymoons. And it is easy to see why: few places in India offer such a variety of beautiful backdrops within a few hours of each other. Misty tea gardens, golden backwaters, red cliffs over the sea and colonial streets all make for photos you will treasure for years.
Here are the best couple photoshoot locations in Kerala, the best time of day for each, and tips to get great results.
1. Tea gardens in Munnar
Rows of bright green tea bushes rolling over the hills are Kerala’s most iconic backdrop. Early mornings bring mist drifting through the valleys, which gives photos a dreamy, cinematic look.
- Best time: sunrise to about 9 am, or the golden hour before sunset.
- Tip: wear solid, bright colours (red, mustard, white) that stand out against the green. Some estates require permission for photography inside their plantations, which we arrange.
2. Kolukkumalai sunrise
Kolukkumalai, near Munnar, is among the highest tea estates in the world. Reaching it involves an early-morning jeep ride on a rough road, but the reward is a sunrise above a sea of clouds.
- Best time: sunrise, on clear days from September to March.
- Tip: carry warm layers. It is cold before dawn.
3. Alleppey and Kumarakom backwaters
Palm-lined canals, a traditional houseboat, a small country boat and golden evening light: the backwaters are made for couple photos.
- Best time: late afternoon to sunset.
- Tip: a short shoot on your private houseboat deck, or on a country canoe in a narrow canal, gives you photos that look unmistakably Kerala.
4. Fort Kochi
Colourful colonial houses, old churches, street art, Jew Town’s antique shops and the Chinese fishing nets at sunset make Fort Kochi perfect for a stylish, urban shoot.
- Best time: early morning for empty streets; sunset at the Chinese fishing nets.
- Tip: this is a great spot for Western or fusion outfits.
5. Varkala cliffs
Red laterite cliffs, a sweeping sea view and some of Kerala’s best sunsets. Varkala gives your photos a dramatic, coastal feel.
- Best time: the hour before sunset.
- Tip: flowy outfits look beautiful in the sea breeze.
6. Kovalam lighthouse and beaches
The red-and-white lighthouse and crescent beaches make for classic beach portraits.
- Best time: sunrise for quiet beaches; sunset for colour.
7. Athirappilly waterfalls
Kerala’s largest waterfall, surrounded by forest. It is at its most powerful during and after the monsoon.
- Best time: morning, when the light is soft and crowds are thinner.
- Tip: stay at the designated viewpoints; the rocks near the falls are slippery.
8. Vagamon meadows and pine forest
Rolling green meadows, a pine forest and cool mist make Vagamon a quieter alternative to Munnar, popular for pre-wedding and couple shoots.
- Best time: morning, when mist often hangs over the hills.
9. Your resort
Some of the best photos come from your own stay: a private pool villa at golden hour, a candlelit dinner set-up, or a balcony overlooking the valley. Read about Kerala’s most romantic stays.
How a honeymoon photoshoot works
- Choose the location that fits your route, usually Munnar, the backwaters, Fort Kochi or Varkala.
- Pick the duration: a 1 to 2-hour shoot is enough for most couples.
- Plan your outfits: one traditional (a Kerala kasavu saree and mundu look beautiful) and one casual.
- We arrange the photographer and time it with your sightseeing, so it fits naturally into the day.
- Receive your edited photos digitally after the trip.
Photoshoot tips for couples
- Schedule shoots in the golden hours: just after sunrise or before sunset.
- Avoid big logos and busy patterns on clothes.
- Bring a change of outfit and a small kit for touch-ups.
- Relax and enjoy each other. The most natural photos come from candid moments.
- Respect local rules: some temples, estates and private properties restrict photography.
Is a drone allowed?
Drone use in India is regulated, and many areas, including some tourist spots and protected forests, restrict it. If you want aerial shots, ask us in advance and we will check with the photographer about permissions for your chosen location.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a honeymoon photoshoot cost?
It depends on the duration, location and photographer. Short 1 to 2-hour shoots are the most popular. Ask us for a quote with your route.
Which single location is best?
If you can only do one, choose Munnar’s tea gardens at sunrise or a sunset shoot on the backwaters.
Want a couple photoshoot on your honeymoon? Tell us your route and preferred style, and we will add it to your plan. Explore our Kerala honeymoon packages.
Plan your trip with Golden Compass Holidays
Golden Compass Holidays is a Kochi-based travel agency with over 12 years of experience planning Kerala honeymoons, family holidays and tours across India and abroad. We use private houseboats and quality 3-star or better stays, can include flights from your city, and accept card payments. Call +91 80868 00096 or send us an enquiry with your dates and budget, and our team will share a detailed plan.
Sherin Francis is the Managing Director of Golden Compass Holidays, a Kochi-based travel agency she has led since November 2012. She oversees how every Kerala honeymoon, family holiday and India or international tour is planned and priced, and the guides on this site come from the day-to-day work of her team.
