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Kerala hosts thousands of tourists annually due to its diverse population, fascinating history, and customs. It’s also particularly popular for its eco-tourism activities and gorgeous backwaters.
It even earned a spot on the National Geographic Traveler’s publication as one of the world’s top ten paradises!
Regardless of what you hope to get out of your trip; the brightest sky, the lowest prices for airfare and hotel rooms, or fewer crowds on the beaches, we’ll help you pick the best time to visit Kerala.
In addition, you’ll learn the least busy, cheapest, and worst times to visit (if the latter even exists). Let us be your guide!
Why You Should Visit Kerala
Kerala, often known as “God’s Own Country,” is a beautiful Indian state that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
The city’s relaxed life pace offers a great first impression of India compared to the hustle and bustle of other popular tourist attractions like the Golden Triangle. Kerala’s hill stations are also fantastic places for tourists to explore.
The city is famous for its tranquil backwaters, sun-kissed beaches, clear waters, lush woods, and fascinating traditional practices. The hill stations are excellent destinations for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain climbing.
The delectable local cuisine is also a major tourist draw to the city. The dishes are typically hot and spicy, giving an irresistible taste. They use fresh veggies, indigenous fruits, and locally-grown aromatic spices. The locals here also adore their fish.
Kerala is a paradise for music, dance, and drama diehards. Visitors from all over the world flock here to experience the state’s rich artistic and cultural traditions. Furthermore, the city’s beaches are among the most frequented tourist destinations.
Overall Best Time to Visit Kerala
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The best time to visit Kerala is the winter season, from September to March. During this time of the year, the temperatures are comfortable, and the humidity is low.
Temperatures range between 50 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather offers a perfect opportunity to explore the city’s breathtaking lagoons, relaxing canals, and aromatic plantations.
The city’s spice plantations, steep hills, and winding pathways are at their best when the weather cooperates. Visiting Kerala in the winter is convenient because you won’t have to deal with high humidity, intense heat, and persistent precipitation.
It’s a beautiful time to go on a safari, take a boat ride, or tour a tea factory. Winter in Kerala is a magical and surreal experience. Touring the misty plains of Wayanad and Alleppey will offer you an unforgettable experience.
In December and January, the Christmas and New Year celebrations bring a mystical allure to the sceneries in the form of fairy lights and stars. Colonial castles and medieval markets transport you back to long-forgotten customs.
However, mid-December marks the beginning of the high season, with tourists worldwide flocking to the city. Prices tend to be on the steep side around this period.
So, it’s best to arrange your hotel and tours in advance. You may expect to find crowded beaches and long lines. While winter is not snowy, temperatures can drop to freezing at night.
Cheapest Time to Visit Kerala
The cheapest time to visit Kerala is the summer season running from March to May. During this period, temperatures can range from moderate to sweltering hot, depending on the location and altitude.
Typically, the fluctuation is between 85 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, you may expect high humidity and stickiness levels in the coastal areas.
The days are typically hot and humid, while the evenings bring a reprieve from the daytime heat. Thus, if you want to spend as much time outdoors during your trip to Kerala, you might consider going at a different time of year.
However, the weather is ideal for visiting the city’s scenic hill stations like Ponmudi, Vagamon, Thekkady, and Munnar. Besides the intensified beauty of summer’s clear blue skies and lush green landscapes, the season comes with multiple celebrations.
You’ll get an opportunity to enjoy festivals filled with marches, songs, and dances in temples such as Chinakkathoor, Vaikom, Padmanabhaswamy, Sabarimala, and Thrissur.
Nevertheless, because the season isn’t everybody’s favorite, it’s the perfect time to visit Kerala if you’re on a budget. Accommodations and travel agencies typically offer discounts throughout the summer months.
But Kerala summers can be exhausting, and you’ll need to prepare for them. Consider booking connecting flights instead of direct ones, as this may save money.
Least Busy Time to Visit Kerala
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The monsoon season (June to September) is the least busy time to visit Kerala. Temperatures during the monsoon season average between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Intense downpours and rising humidity levels characterize the season. Although there are times when the weather is unpleasant, there are others when it’s delightful.
There are plenty of activities to partake in on a good day, including boat races, boat excursions, coffee, spice plantations’ tours, tree house lodgings, eco-tourism communities, and therapeutic spas.
You must time the days without heavy rains to experience all these attractions. The season is the most artistic and romantic time of year. Every monsoon’s phase offers a unique allure, from the mild drizzle, gentle showers, and intense downpours.
In addition, Kerala’s already verdant landscape becomes even more beautiful. The monsoon winds blowing from the southwest bring about enough rainfall to cause floods, particularly in June and August.
Whereas you’ll find tourists in Kerala during the monsoon season, the numbers reduce compared to the winter season, and some attractions may remain closed.
Therefore, the time is perfect for tourists looking to have a peaceful and quiet vacation. To reduce flight costs, you can be flexible with your schedule, set price alerts with different airlines, or use incognito mode.
Worst Time to Visit Kerala
The worst time to visit Kerala is around June when there are heavy downpours. However, the city is a great vacation spot most of the year. There are specific adventures for each season.
Kerala is most beautiful during the monsoons, while summer months are ideal for tourists seeking an active vacation with their families.
Because of the availability of summer and monsoon activities, winter is everybody’s favorite season. It’s also when the city receives the highest number of visitors. Consequently, you’re going to encounter huge crowds wherever you go.
Though the crowds reduce during the monsoons and summer, you should still prepare accordingly. During the rainy season, be sure to bring along water-resistant suitcases and raincoats.
Whereas it doesn’t become overly chilly during the winter, don’t forget some woolen clothing and mosquito repellent if you intend to go on one of the many camping trips.
Things to Consider
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Here are several tips to help you make your visit to Kerala memorable:
- Accommodation. Prices vary depending on the time of year. You may choose to stay in budget hostels or luxurious hotels.
- Safety. Kerala is a safe destination for tourists. Nevertheless, watch out for your surroundings, especially when you’re out at night. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing expensive jewelry and clothes.
- Obtain permits. You need special authorization to visit a wildlife sanctuary or other protected areas in Kerala. When possible, getting permission in advance will help you avoid unnecessary delays.
- Alcohol. If you enjoy drinking alcohol, it is pretty uncommon in Kerala. There is a strict limit on the number of licenses the state government issues to hotels. You may check duty-free shops in the area if the hotel you’re staying in doesn’t offer alcoholic beverages.
- Culture. You’ll find people from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds in Kerala. Therefore, you need to act appropriately. Avoid making statements that the locals think are hurtful.
- Shopping. Kerala has a rich history of artistic excellence. You can shop for exquisite jewelry, antiques, and carvings.
- Language. Communication might be challenging due to language barriers if you’re exploring remote areas. However, English and Hindi are used in urban areas.
- Socialize. Keralan residents are known for their friendly and accommodating nature toward visitors. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if you are in a challenging situation.
- Transport. Public buses or taxis are the most common means of traveling around Kerala. The buses are often the least expensive option. The most popular hailing companies here are Uber and Ola, but before you board a taxi, ensure you agree on the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some of the most common questions visitors ask when planning a trip to Kerala:
Which month is best for a Kerala honeymoon?
Kerala’s tourist season begins from September to March, with the peak season falling between December 20 and January 15. September through March is ideal for a honeymoon trip to Kerala since there’s no rain and the summer heat is yet to arrive.
How many days are enough in Kerala?
Ideally, plan to spend at least four days in Kerala. If you’re traveling with the whole family, you can extend the stay for eight days and seven nights. For honeymoons, a duration of 5 days and four nights is sufficient.
Is Kerala good for couples?
Yes, Kerala is couples’ favorite destination. You’ll find bliss in the city’s pristine beaches, tranquil backwaters, picturesque hill stations, and inviting tea gardens. Furthermore, the city offers plenty of romantic experiences to make your dream vacation with your significant other unforgettable.
Can I wear shorts in Kerala?
Although there are no regulations regarding appropriate dressing in Kerala, you should respect local customs to avoid offending the local populace. While you don’t have to wear a sari, it’s still essential to cover your legs and shoulders.
Is Kerala safe to visit?
Yes, Kerala is safe for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the locals are warm and welcoming. However, as with any destination, it’s crucial to take the necessary precautions to guarantee an enjoyable trip. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and secluded areas, especially when alone.
Is Kerala worth visiting?
Kerala is India’s most idyllic destination. The city has something for everyone with its stunning backwaters, exotic wildlife, traditional culture and art, and delicious cuisine. If you want to broaden your travel horizons, Kerala is worth visiting.
So, When Should You Visit Kerala?
Kerala is a fantastic destination whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure with family and friends. The best time to visit this famous Indian state is from September to March when the weather conditions are perfect.
Just remember to plan your itinerary so that you can see and do everything that piques your interest. So what are you waiting for — book your trip to this amazing and unique destination today!