What's the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months of December, January, and February, when the climate is comfortably warm, avoiding extreme heat and monsoon rains.
This period offers the opportunity to partake in vibrant local festivals and to explore diverse landscapes, from beaches and backwaters to hill stations. However, be prepared for larger crowds, especially in December, and slightly higher prices for hotels and services due to increased tourist demand.
The Indian state of Kerala is known as a tropical getaway with sprawling beaches and unique natural attractions. It offers a great blend of nature, culture, and modern amenities.
So, when should you go? The answer depends on how you plan to spend your trip, your budget, the weather, and other factors. Here’s a closer look.
Overall Best Time to Visit Kerala
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The overall best time to visit Kerala is in the winter, which includes the months of December, January, and February. Visiting during the winter means that you won’t have to deal with extreme heat or the risk of heavy monsoon rains.
If you visit during the winter months, you’ll also get the chance to experience some of the local festivals and events. This includes the Thiruvathira Festival and the Makara Jyothi Festivals.
Both festivals feature large celebrations that attract plenty of people, with live music, dancing, and wonderful food. The winter weather is also perfect for exploring the state’s diverse landscapes, from the beautiful beaches and backwaters to the hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries.
You’ll discover why Kerala is called, “God’s Own Country,” as the temperatures stay comfortable most of the season. The average high in Kerala in January is about 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s warm, but not too hot, allowing you to spend more time outside. Of course, the weather varies depending on where you stay. The coastline of Kerala stretches far north from the southern tip of India, spanning over 600 km (373 miles) along the Arabian Sea.
Northern cities such as Kannur and Bekal may be cooler compared to Kochi and Alleppey in the south. If you plan on visiting Kerala for the beaches, Kovalam Beach stands out as a top pick during the winter months.
The waters are warmer compared to the beaches up north and it’s just about 16 km (10 miles) north of Thiruvananthapuram, which is the capital of Kerala. The coastal city of Kochi is also a popular spot for tourists during the winter months, thanks to its year-end carnival.
It’s a lively event with bike races and fire displays. Winter’s a wonderful time to visit Kerala for the beaches and festivals, but you’ll need to deal with more crowds.
Travelers from colder climates start to pile into Kerala during the winter months. Out of the three winter months, December is the most crowded. The large crowds of tourists start to thin out in January and February.
So, if you go in December, you may notice larger crowds at beaches and popular attractions. Due to increased demand, you can also expect to pay a little more for hotels and services. However, it’s still one of the most comfortable seasons for enjoying India’s southwest coast.
Cheapest Time to Visit Kerala
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The cheapest time to visit Kerala is during the monsoon season, which typically lasts from June to September. It’s a period of heavy rainfall and an increased risk of flooding, resulting in lower prices and fewer tourists.
The weather during the wet season isn’t great for outdoor activities, as a heavy downpour could force you to cancel your plans for the day. Along with rain, the temperatures can increase.
So, if you don’t mind the heat or rain, you can save money by visiting during the wet season. The average temperature in Kerala for August is between 77 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit. When you factor in the humidity, the atmosphere can feel even warmer.
Of course, the rain and higher temperatures are the reasons why June to September is the least expensive time to visit. With fewer tourists in the area, exploring popular attractions, beaches, and backwaters may be a little more peaceful.
You won’t have to wait in line for long or stand shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists everywhere that you go. The monsoon season also contributes to the lush greenery of the landscape. The heavy rains help transform Kerala into a vibrant place.
Finding deals is also easier during the wet season, making it easier to plan an affordable trip. For the lowest prices, try looking for travel packages that bundle flights and hotels.
Least Busy Time to Visit Kerala
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The least busy time to visit Kerala is generally the start of the monsoon season, which begins in June and lasts to September. June and July often experience the heaviest rain of the year, which is why it’s the lowest period for tourism.
Most parts of the state get heavy rainfall at the beginning of the monsoon season, keeping more tourists away. If you plan to visit during the wet season, it’s important to regularly check forecasts. Kerala is considered one of the rainiest parts of India. In fact, floods in 2018 caused severe damage to large parts of the region.
Remain flexible with your plans, as the weather may force you to find alternative things to do. Remaining flexible is also a good idea to get the best deals on flights and hotels during the wet season.
Visiting immediately after the monsoon season is another option. Kerala is still relatively quiet in October and November, as tourism tends to pick up in December. You can avoid the rainiest season and the peak tourist season.
The Worst Time to Visit Kerala
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The worst times to visit Kerala are in the wet season and the summer. The heavy rainfall that occurs between June and September can easily disrupt your travel plans. It may become difficult to spend time on the beach or go sightseeing.
Some attractions and businesses may also be closed, limiting what you can do during your trip. Along with the monsoon season, you may not enjoy visiting the state during the summer. Kerala experiences hot and humid summers, which last from March to May.
The average temperature is 84 degrees Fahrenheit for all three months. If you’re not accustomed to tropical climates, outdoor activities are likely to become significantly less enjoyable during the summer months.
Kerala by Month: Climate & Activities
FEBRUARY 18, 2014, ERNAKULAM, KERALA, INDIA – Banerji Road in the central part of Ernakulam/Tantrik71/Shutterstock
Still unsure about the best time to visit Kerala? Take a look at our summary of the weather and climate by month below:
January
January in Kerala sees pleasant temperatures ranging from 23 to 32°C (73-90°F). This month is perfect for visiting the beautiful beaches of Varkala and Kovalam, exploring the historic Fort Kochi, and experiencing the grandeur of the Cochin Carnival.
February
With similar weather to January, February is ideal for backwater cruises in Alleppey, witnessing the Theyyam performances in North Kerala, and exploring the wildlife at Periyar National Park.
March
As the temperature slightly rises to 24-33°C (75-91°F), March is great for visiting the tea gardens in Munnar, enjoying the colorful festival of Holi, and exploring the tranquil Ashtamudi Lake.
April
April sees temperatures ranging from 25 to 33°C (77-91°F). It’s a good time to visit the hill station of Wayanad, experience the Thrissur Pooram festival with its spectacular elephant procession, and relax in the serene Bekal.
May
May, with temperatures from 25 to 33°C (77-91°F), is ideal for exploring the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, visiting the historic Mattancherry Palace in Kochi, and experiencing traditional Ayurvedic treatments.
June
The onset of the monsoon brings temperatures between 24 to 30°C (75-86°F). June is perfect for monsoon Ayurveda therapies, experiencing the lush green post-rain scenery, and visiting the monsoon festivals.
July
July continues with monsoon, offering temperatures from 23 to 29°C (73-84°F). Enjoy the verdant landscape of the backwaters, explore the monsoon wildlife at Thekkady, and witness the famous snake boat races.
August
August sees continued rains and temperatures between 24 to 30°C (75-86°F). It’s a good time for experiencing Onam festivities, exploring the historical sites in Thalassery, and indulging in the monsoon cuisine of Kerala.
September
As the monsoon recedes, temperatures range from 24 to 30°C (75-86°F). September is great for visiting the tranquil Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, exploring the spice plantations in Thekkady, and enjoying the post-monsoon freshness.
October
October sees temperatures ranging from 24 to 31°C (75-88°F). It’s an ideal month for beach vacations in Marari, exploring the Jewish heritage in Kochi, and enjoying the vibrant Navaratri celebrations.
November
With cooler temperatures from 23 to 31°C (73-88°F), November is perfect for cruising the backwaters, visiting the ancient temples in Thrissur, and exploring the cultural heritage of Kerala.
December
December, with temperatures from 23 to 32°C (73-90°F), offers a pleasant climate for exploring the rich biodiversity of Silent Valley National Park, attending the Cochin International Film Festival, and enjoying Christmas celebrations in Kerala’s churches.
Frequently Asked Questions
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If you’re still trying to decide when to visit Kerala, the following FAQ may help with your travel plans:
What are the hottest months in Kerala?
March and April are typically the hottest months in Kerala, with average temperatures reaching 84 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. These are also some of the driest months. The temperatures start to cool as the rain comes in, beginning around June.
Which is the rainiest month in Kerala?
June gets about 26 days of rainfall, making it the wettest month in Kerala. July and August round out the monsoon season.
The state used to experience a second monsoon season around October, but this has become less common in recent years. While you may still get wet in October, the chance of a severe monsoon isn’t as high.
So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Kerala?
The winter months of December, January, and February are often the best times of the year to visit the state of Kerala, as the weather is more pleasant compared to the hot summer months and the rainy season.
So, with so much to see and do, what are you waiting for — book your trip today and experience for yourself all that Kerala has to offer. Happy travels!