Best Time to Visit Kerala
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a land blessed with lush greenery, tranquil backwaters, serene beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Knowing the best time to visit Kerala is essential to fully experience its beauty and charm. The state experiences a tropical climate, which varies from the pleasant winter months to the refreshing monsoons and warm summers. Each season offers a unique experience, making Kerala an attractive destination year-round.
However, the ideal time to visit Kerala depends on the type of experience you seek. Whether you want to enjoy houseboat rides, explore wildlife sanctuaries, attend vibrant festivals, or simply relax on the beaches, understanding Kerala’s seasons will help you plan your trip perfectly.
Kerala in Winter (October to February)
Winter is arguably the best time to visit Kerala. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the scenic beauty of the state. The temperature ranges between 20°C to 32°C, offering comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Activities:
- Backwater Cruises: The backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom are particularly mesmerizing in winter. A houseboat cruise through these serene waterways is a must-do.
- Wildlife Tours: Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species.
- Beach Relaxation: The beaches of Kovalam, Varkala, and Marari are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in Ayurvedic treatments.
Festivals:
- Onam: Although Onam is usually celebrated in August or September, the spirit of the festival lingers on, with various cultural events and traditional feasts.
- Christmas and New Year: The festivities during this time add a vibrant charm to the coastal towns, especially in Kochi.
Kerala in Summer (March to May)
Summer in Kerala is warm, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 38°C. While the coastal areas can be quite humid, the hill stations of Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady offer a cool escape.
Activities:
- Hill Station Retreats: Munnar and Wayanad are at their best during summer, with sprawling tea plantations and refreshing weather.
- Tea and Spice Plantation Tours: Explore the lush plantations and learn about tea and spice production.
- Waterfalls: The waterfalls like Athirappilly and Meenmutty are more accessible during summer, providing stunning views and perfect picnic spots.
Festivals:
- Vishu: This festival marks the Malayali New Year and is celebrated with much fanfare, including special feasts and traditional performances.
Kerala in Monsoon (June to September)
The monsoon season in Kerala is a time of rejuvenation and renewal. The state receives heavy rainfall, transforming the landscape into a vibrant green paradise. The temperature during monsoons ranges between 22°C to 28°C.
Activities:
- Ayurvedic Treatments: The monsoon is considered the best time for Ayurvedic therapies, as the body is believed to be more receptive to healing during this period.
- Monsoon Treks: The Western Ghats offer excellent trekking opportunities, with mist-covered hills and lush greenery.
- Photography: The rain-washed landscapes, flowing rivers, and cascading waterfalls provide a perfect backdrop for photography.
Festivals:
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Held in August, this famous snake boat race in Alappuzha is a thrilling event to witness.
- Onam: Onam, celebrated in August or September, is Kerala’s harvest festival and is marked by grand feasts, traditional games, and cultural performances.
Conclusion
Each season in Kerala brings its own unique charm, offering diverse experiences for different kinds of travelers. Whether you wish to explore the serene backwaters, enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic retreat, or witness the vibrant festivals, there’s no wrong time to visit Kerala. Choose the season that best matches your preferences and prepare to be captivated by the beauty and culture of this enchanting state.
OCT-FEB
20°C to 32°C
MAR-MAY
25°C to 38°C
JUN-SEP
22°C to 28°C
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Best Seller Package Kerala
Explore More About Kerala
To reach Kerala, you have several options depending on where you’re starting from. Here’s an overview:
1. By Air
- Kerala has four main international airports: Cochin International Airport (COK) in Kochi, Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) in Thiruvananthapuram, Calicut International Airport (CCJ) in Kozhikode, and Kannur International Airport (CNN).
- Direct flights are available from major cities in India and international destinations like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and parts of Europe.
- From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination within Kerala.
2. By Train
- Kerala has a well-connected railway network with major train stations in Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), Ernakulam (Kochi), Kozhikode (Calicut), and Kannur.
- Book tickets through IRCTC or at local railway stations. Major trains from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad connect to Kerala.
3. By Road
- Kerala is well connected by road with neighboring states: Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
- You can take a long-distance bus run by KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) or private operators, which are frequent from Bangalore, Chennai, and other South Indian cities.
- Alternatively, you can self-drive or hire a cab for a road trip into Kerala.
4. By Sea
- Kochi has a major port, and some luxury cruises and boats stop here on certain international and domestic routes.
- You can explore options for cruises from destinations like Mumbai.
5. Local Transport within Kerala
- Once in Kerala, travel between cities is convenient via trains, state-run buses, and private taxis.
- For shorter distances, you can also consider auto-rickshaws and ride-hailing services.
If you need specific guidance based on your starting location, let me know!
The best time to visit Kerala largely depends on what you want to experience, but generally, the ideal time is from October to March. Here’s a breakdown:
October to March: This is the peak tourist season. The weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and low humidity, making it perfect for sightseeing, backwater tours, and beach activities.
April to June: These months are hotter and more humid, which can make outdoor activities less enjoyable. However, this is a good time to find deals on accommodations and visit less crowded places.
July to September: This is the monsoon season, with heavy rainfall. While it’s not the most popular time to visit, the lush greenery and fewer tourists can be appealing. It’s also a great time for Ayurvedic treatments, as the weather is believed to enhance the effectiveness of these therapies.
If you’re interested in specific activities like wildlife watching, festivals, or cultural experiences, those can also influence the best time for your visit.
If you are coming through Train or Flight then you need to reach By reaching Ernakulam Railway station or Cochi airport.
You want to visit then July to Junauary will be the proper time to visit Kerala. If you want to avoid high cost then don’t come in holiday dates.
You can explore Munnar Thekkady Alleppey Vagamon Varkala Kovalam Trivandrums.
To visit 5 days 4 nights is the best plan in which you can explore Alleppey Vagamon Varkala Kovalam Trivandrum.
Houseboat Experiences by Carnival Tours, Alleppey.
In companies account on the 1st day only
Depends upon the Package you have taken.
Depends upon the Package you have taken.
Yes, Kerala is generally safe at night, especially in tourist areas, but remain cautious and avoid isolated places.
God’s Own Country: Kerala is often referred to as “God’s Own Country” due to its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and natural beauty, including backwaters, hills, and beaches.
High Literacy Rate: Kerala boasts one of the highest literacy rates in India, at over 96%. This is attributed to the state’s strong focus on education and social welfare.
Unique Festivals: The state is famous for its vibrant festivals, such as Onam and Vishu, which showcase traditional music, dance, and feasting. The snake boat races during Onam are particularly popular.
Ayurveda Hub: Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments and wellness tourism. The state has numerous Ayurveda resorts and practitioners, making it a leading destination for holistic healing.
Backwaters: The backwaters of Kerala, particularly in places like Alleppey and Kumarakom, are a network of lagoons, lakes, and canals that offer houseboat experiences and are a major tourist attraction.
Diverse Wildlife: Kerala is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including Periyar National Park and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can see elephants, tigers, and various bird species.
Cultural Melting Pot: The state has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various religions, including Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and art forms.
Spice Capital: Historically, Kerala was a major spice trading center, earning the nickname “Spice Garden of India.” It produces a variety of spices, including black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Hill Stations of Kerala, including the Western Ghats, have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their biodiversity and unique ecosystems.
Women Empowerment: Kerala is known for its progressive gender equality and women’s empowerment initiatives, which are reflected in higher participation of women in education and the workforce compared to many other Indian states.