Best time to visit Kerala: Choosing the Best Time for Your Trip
Kerala has warm weather all year long, and each season has something special to enjoy, like rainy days that feel magical or sunny, cool winter days. But this variety can make it tricky to plan your trip. If you want to relax on a houseboat or see exciting animals, when you decide to visit can change how much fun you have. Choosing the best time to visit Kerala isn’t just about looking at a calendar. You also need to think about things like the weather, special celebrations, and what you like to do. By being smart about when you go, you can make sure your trip to this beautiful place is fun and special. Let’s take a look at the different seasons to help you pick the best time for your amazing adventure in Kerala!
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Best time to visit Kerala (November to February)
The best time to visit Kerala is from November to February, when the state experiences cooler, more comfortable weather, making it ideal for tourism. During these months, temperatures typically range from 24°C to 30°C, and the humidity is lower, creating a refreshing climate perfect for exploring Kerala’s scenic landscapes, backwaters, beaches, and cultural sites. November to February is also a great time to visit Kerala’s hill stations, like Munnar and Wayanad, where the cool, misty air enhances the charm of tea plantations and forested valleys. This season, however, is peak travel time, so booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended for a smooth experience.
Summer Season (March to May): For Budget Travelers
The summer season in Kerala brings warm, sunny days and higher temperatures, especially along the coast. While the weather can be hot and humid, this season has its perks, particularly for budget-conscious travellers, as it’s considered off-peak. Hill stations like Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady offer cooler escapes with scenic views, tea plantations, and refreshing breezes. Beaches in Varkala and Kovalam are less crowded, and accommodation rates are generally lower, making it an affordable time to explore. Additionally, travellers during this season can witness traditional festivals like Vishu, the Kerala New Year, marked by fireworks and cultural rituals, and Thrissur Pooram, a spectacular temple festival featuring elaborate elephant processions. With fewer tourists around, summer in Kerala provides a more private experience for those seeking to explore its culture and natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
Monsoon Season (June to September): The Offbeat Charm
During the rainy season in Kerala, the state turns into a beautiful green paradise. The rain helps the forests, waterfalls, and backwaters come alive. Even though it rains heavily at times, the showers don’t last long, making it a great time for visitors who want to see Kerala’s natural beauty in a peaceful setting. This is also the best time for special health treatments called Ayurvedic treatments because the humidity helps the herbal oils work better on your skin. Travellers can enjoy amazing sights, like the stunning waterfalls in Athirapally, hiking in the misty hills, or join in the fun of Onam, a big harvest festival. While some outdoor activities might be harder to do because of the rain, the stunning views and calmness make it a perfect time for people who love nature and want to relax.
Tips for travelling to Kerala
1. Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Kerala is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon (June to August) can be a beautiful time to see the state’s greenery but be prepared for heavy rains.
2. Explore the Backwaters: Don’t miss the famous backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom. Consider renting a houseboat for a unique experience. Overnight stays on the boat can be particularly memorable.
3. Cultural Experiences: Visit temples and historic sites, such as the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. Experiencing a Kathakali dance performance or a Kalaripayattu martial arts show can also deepen your understanding of Kerala’s culture.
4. Taste the Local Cuisine: Make sure to sample traditional Kerala dishes like Sadhya (a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf), seafood curries, and Appam with stew. Don’t forget to try local snacks like banana chips and payasam for dessert.
5. Plan Your Itinerary: Kerala has diverse attractions, so plan your itinerary to include beaches (like Varkala and Kovalam), hill stations (like Munnar and Wayanad), and wildlife sanctuaries (like Periyar).
6. Traveling Within the State: While Kerala has a good public transport system, consider renting a car or hiring a taxi for more convenience, especially if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.
7. Respect Local Customs: Kerala is relatively liberal, but it’s always good to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Remove shoes before entering such places.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best time to visit Kerala is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for sightseeing, backwater cruises, and exploring beaches and hill stations. This period offers the most comfortable experience, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. For those seeking a unique perspective, the monsoon season from June to September brings lush greenery and is ideal for Ayurvedic treatments and witnessing Kerala’s vibrant landscapes come to life, though it may limit outdoor activities. Summer (April-May) is best suited for hill station visits to escape the heat in the coastal areas.
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People also ask about the Best time to visit Kerala
1. What is the best season to visit Kerala?
The ideal season to visit Kerala is during the winter months, from October to February. The weather is pleasant, with lower humidity and cooler temperatures, making it perfect for sightseeing, beach activities, and exploring the backwaters.
2. Is Kerala a good destination to visit in the summer?
Kerala’s summer season runs from March to May. While it can be hot and humid, summer is still a great time to visit hill stations, like Munnar and Wayanad, where temperatures are cooler. This season is also perfect for finding travel deals, as it’s considered the off-peak perio
3. What is Kerala like during the monsoon season?
Kerala experiences its monsoon from June to September. This season brings lush green landscapes, and refreshed backwaters, and is ideal for experiencing Kerala’s Ayurvedic treatments, which are believed to be more effective during the rains. However, some outdoor activities may be limited due to heavy rainfall.
4. Is December a good month to visit Kerala?
Yes, December is one of the best months to visit Kerala. The weather is cool and dry, and many cultural events, like Kerala’s Cochin Carnival, take place in December, offering a unique cultural experience.
5. Are there any festivals that influence the best time to visit Kerala?
Yes, Kerala hosts various festivals, like Onam (usually in August or September) and Vishu (in April), which attract visitors. December also has numerous Christmas and New Year festivities. These celebrations provide a vibrant cultural experience but can also attract larger crowds.
6. Which month has the best weather for Kerala’s beaches?
The best months to enjoy Kerala’s beaches are November to March when temperatures are moderate, and there’s minimal rainfall, offering ideal beach weather.
7. Is it cheaper to visit Kerala during a particular season?
June to September (monsoon season) is usually the most affordable time to visit Kerala, as it’s considered off-peak. Accommodation and flight rates tend to be lower, making it a budget-friendly option for travellers.
8. What time of year is best for a Kerala houseboat experience?
The best time for a houseboat experience in the backwaters of Alleppey is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the waters are calm, providing a comfortable and scenic journey.