A Travel Guide to Kerala: Best Time to Visit Kerala, How to Reach, and Much More

Kerala, also known as “God’s own country,” is a living paradise on Earth. The place offers a tropical blend of landscapes, backwaters, and tea gardens, along with a rich Ayurvedic heritage. This place has something to offer to all its visitors who later become its admirers. 

Let’s discuss the best time to visit Kerala, stays, and much more in detail. 

Quick Kerala Details

Best season to visit: October to February (winter)

Activities in Kerala according to season: 

• For good weather – October to February for hiking and spending time on beaches. 
• Best time for sightseeing – Post monsoon from September onwards, monsoon generally starts from June or July.
• To attend festivals like the Nehru Trophy boat race in Kerala, August is the best time to visit. 

Average annual weather of Kerala- 22°C (71.6°F) – 32°C (89.6°F)

What is the Best Time to Visit Kerala?

Though Kerala is people’s favorite throughout the year, August to March is considered the peak season. You can expect pleasant weather with the temperature between 18 and 32 degrees Celsius. It is the perfect time to enjoy the mesmerizing backwater, beaches, sightseeing, and a lot more.

People also visit Kerala during the monsoon season between June and August. The heavy rain showers enhance the lush greenery of the state. It is also considered to be the best time for people who want to get Ayurvedic treatments and enjoy the scenic waterfalls. 

April and May are generally known to be the off-season because of the hot and humid climate. Yet some tourists visit the place to experience a slow, steady lifestyle in peaceful surroundings. During this season, one can get accommodation at the lowest prices and also save money while travelling. 

Activities to do in Kerala in Different Seasons

Some of the activities that you can consider during your visit include- 

• Safari – The best time for a wildlife safari is from October to February. You can visit Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park and Periyar National Park.
• Backwater Tour- Winter is the best time to go for a backwater tour in Kerala. Between October and February, the weather is at its best, providing comfort and peace in the tranquillity of nature. The gentle cold air adds to the experience of backboat, unlike the intense hot breeze in summer. 
• Beach Vacations- Kerala has beach destinations like Kovalam, Varkala, and Marari. The finest time to visit and explore beaches and water activities is between November and February, when there is low humidity and mild temperatures.
• Ayurvedic Treatment- The best time to visit Kerala for Ayurvedic treatment is between mid-July and mid-August, also known as Karkidakam. This time is best for detoxification and therapies, as the cool, moist atmosphere helps nourish the body and promote relaxation.
• Experience the waterfall and lush greenery- The monsoon is the best season to witness waterfalls and lush landscapes. From June to September, the state turns greenest in all time. You can also experience the most scenic rushing water over rocks at various waterfalls. Some of the famous waterfalls include Athirapally waterfall (also known as “Niagara of India”), Adyanpara waterfall, and Vazhachal waterfall.
• Explore the tea plantation and spice garden- Kerala is full of greenery, which also includes the spice and tea plantations. The state is also known as the Spice Capital of the world. Thekkady is the home to over twelve varieties of spices, which include cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, clove, coffee, tea, vanilla, and nutmeg on the slopes of the Western Ghats. Tourists who are curious to know and want to explore the farming often visit tea and coffee gardens. 

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How to Reach Kerala? Road, Bus, and Railways

Kerala is one of the best places to visit for your trip with friends and family, and even for a honeymoon. It is a well-connected state via road, air, and railways. The state is even accessible by sea route from Lakshadweep. Read more to know more about the ways to reach the state of Kerala. 

By Road

A road trip to Kerala is one of the best road journeys in India. There are several highways that connect the state to the entire country. These highways are 17, 44, 47, and 49. You can either travel by your personal vehicle, rent a taxi, or hire a car from any major city in India. For more budget-oriented travel, there are several other public transportation options. 

Kerala Distance from Major Cities
Delhi – approx. 2550 km; it typically takes around 34+ hours drive
Mumbai – 1439 km; it takes approx. 26 hrs 46 min drive
Bengaluru – 531 km; it takes around 10 hrs 44 min drive 
Goa – 786 km; approx. 17 hrs 24 min drive

By Air

Kerala is the only state in India with four airports that run both international and domestic flights. These are – Trivandrum, Cochin, Kannur, and Kozhikode airports. 

Trivandrum Airport is nearest to the city centre, around 3.7 km away, and it is also near Varkala, Kovalam, and Shangumukham beach. You can find flights from the major cities in India. Here are the further details-

Flights From the Major Cities

• From Delhi – The direct flights are available, costing around 9,300 (one-way).
• From Mumbai – Direct flights available, costing around 7,600 (one-way).
• From Chennai – Both direct and connecting flights are available, costing around 8,260 and 7,985, respectively (one-way).
• From Kolkata – Connecting flights are available, costing around 9,769 (one-way).
• From Bengaluru –  Both direct and connecting flights are available, costing around 4,200 and 4,863, respectively (one-way). 
• Hyderabad – Both direct and connecting flights are available, costing around 8,511 and 7,863, respectively (one-way).
• Goa – Connecting flights are available, costing around 7,769 (one-way).

By Railways

Rail travel in India comes with comfort, connectivity, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. The incredible network allows you to travel the longest routes in comfort. The Konkan Rail line leads in and out of Kerala with all the major stops, including Kollam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Kozhikode, Ernakulam, and Thiruvananthapuram. 

The top service-providing trains include the Rajdhani, Kerala Express, and Duronto. You can also look for the luxurious trains, which include the Maharaja’s Express and the Golden Chariot. You can find Trains from the major cities in India. Here are the further details-

Trains From the Major Cities

• From Delhi – The direct trains are available, costing around 2,500 (one-way).
• From Mumbai – Direct trains are available, costing around 2,775 (one-way).
• From Chennai – Direct trains are available, costing around 2,040 (one-way).
• From Kolkata – Direct trains are available, costing around 2,320 (one-way).
• From Bengaluru – Direct trains are available, costing around 1,100 (one-way).
• Hyderabad – Direct trains are available, costing around 2,585 (one-way).

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Top 6 Places You Can Consider Visiting in Kerala

From beaches to lush green landscapes, diverse wildlife, and ayurvedic treatment, Kerala is known for its rich cultural heritage. The state has multiple places to explore. Here are some of the beaches, national parks, and more that you can add to your itinerary – 

1. Kovalam 

In Kovalam, you can experience comfortable weather between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius in winter. It is around 18 km from Trivandrum, Kerala, and is known for its iconic 17 km coastline divided into 3 crescent-shaped beaches, namely Lighthouse, Hawa, and Samudra. 

• Lighthouse Beach offers an iconic 118-foot lighthouse with panoramic views. Here are further details- 

Location – Light House Beach

• Entry fee- free entry for all
• Best time to Visit- between October and February 
• Google reviews- 4.2/5

• Hawa Beach is known for its palm groves and soothing sunset views. Here are more details- 

Location – 9XPG+QQM, Light House Rd, Kovalam, Kerala 695527

Hawa Beach

• Entry fee- free entry for all
• Timings- 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM 
• Best time to visit- between October and March
• Google reviews- 4.5/5

• Samudra Beach is known for its traditional fishing view and fewer crowds. Here are more details about Samudra Beach- 

Location – VP 1, GV Raja Rd, Kovalam, Kerala 695527

Samudra Beach

• Entry fee- free entry for all
• Best time to visit- between October and February 
• Google reviews- 4./5

2. Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach is best known for its sunsets and water sports. People from all over India visit Varkala Beach, especially to learn surfing. It is a paradise for water sports lovers. It is also known for its unique red laterite cliffs adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Here is more information about Varkala Beach- 

Location – Kerala 695141

Varkala Beach

• Entry fee- free entry for all
• Best time to visit- between October and March
• Water sports- surfing, speed boat rides, and much more. Avoid visiting the beach during the monsoon as there are no water activities.
• Google reviews- 4.6/5

3. Marari Beach

Marari Beach is a golden sand beach in the Alappuzha district, Kerala. It is best known for fewer crowds and is ideal for relaxing, swimming, and experiencing the fishing culture. The beach is also known for its wholesome experience into the life and culture of the locals. Here is everything you need to know about Marari Beach- 

Location – South.P.O, SH40, Mararikkulam,Mararikkulam, Cherthala, Kerala 688523

Marari beach

• Best time to visit- between October and March
• Google reviews- 4.4/5

4. Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park

Eeavikulam National Park is located along the Western Ghats in Kerala. It was established in 1978 and offers a wide range of wild animals like tigers, elephants, etc. People often visit this national park for a jungle safari. Here is everything you need to know about Eeavikulam National Park-

Location- Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala 685612 

Eravikulam National Park 

Nearest towns- Munnar, Palani, Theni, Kothamangalam, and Adimali

Entry fees- 

Indians-

1. Adult – ₹200 per person
2. Children – ₹95 per person

Foreigners – ₹400 per person 

Ordinary Camera- ₹50

Video Camera- ₹350

Timings-  8:00 AM to 2:00 PM 

The reserve is closed from February to March.
Wildlife found in the park: Endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Marten, Ruddy Mongoose, Elephants, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, and much more.

5. Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park is a part of the Western Ghats and is also known as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. The National Park offers a jungle safari and even night treks. Here is everything you need to know- 

Location- Thekkady, Kerala 

Periyar National Park

Nearest cities- Kottayam and Kochi

Entry fees- 

• Indians- ₹15 for children; Adults – ₹45 per person
• Foreigners – ₹180 for children; Adults- ₹500 per person

Camera charges-

• Still camera- ₹45 
• Video camera- ₹335 

Safari costs- 

• Boat safari- ₹255 per person (above 11 years of age), ₹85 per person (below 11 years of age) for 1.5 hours
• Jeep safari- ₹1770-₹2500 per person 

Best season to visit- October to February

Timings-  7:00 AM onwards 

Wildlife found in the park- Leopards, Elephants, and Tigers.

The national park also offers night treks for ₹5500 per night on both weekdays and weekends for both Indians and foreigners.

6. Backwater Houseboat Cruises 

Alappuzha is best known for backwater houseboat cruises. There are more than 50 houseboats that offer services like free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. Here is everything you need to know about the Backwater Houseboat Cruise.  

Location – Boat Jetty Rd, near Boat Jetty, Finishing Point, Alappuzha, Kerala 688001

Alleppey Houseboats | Alleppey Boat House – Waves and Dales Alleppey Houseboat

• Timings– open 24 hours  
• Services provided- food, AC rooms, cleanliness, functional kitchen, dining space.
• Sharing boathouse charges- per room from 6,999 for one night (requires advanced booking in peak season)
• Private boathouse charges- starting from rupees 9,000 per night (requires advanced booking in peak season)
• Best time to Visit- between October and February 
• Google reviews- 4.7/5

Top 5 Best Stays In Kerala: Luxurious and Affordable

Stays are one of the crucial parts to be sorted in any trip. Here’s the list of the top five luxurious and affordable places to stay, which includes stays like Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel, Abad Harmonia Ayurvedic Beach Resort, Niraamaya Wellness Retreat, and many more. 

Here’s a detailed description of the top 5 stays in Kerala:

1. Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel

Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel is a luxurious stay that offers you top services and a comfortable stay. 

Here is everything you need to know-

Location: Samudra Beach, UDS Corporate Office, GV Raja Rd, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695527   

Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel

Services:

• Wi-Fi (Free)
• Air conditioning
• Fitness centre
• Outdoor swimming pool 
• Free on-site parking 
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Family rooms
• Airport shuttle 
• Room services

Price per night – 4,500 + taxes; breakfast included

Places nearby – 

• Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
• Sirajul Islam Masjid
• Grow Beach Kovalam
• Vellar Art Wall

Google reviews – 4.2/5

2. Abad Harmonia Ayurvedic Beach Resort 

Abad Harmonia Ayurvedic Beach Resort offers you amazing food and a beautiful landscape. 

Here  is everything you need to know about Abad Harmonia Ayurvedic Beach Resort-

Location – Chowara, PO, Kovalam, Kerala 695501

Abad Harmonia | Resort in Kovalam

Services – 

• Wi-Fi (Free)
• Air conditioning
• Spa 
• Outdoor swimming pool 
• Free on-site parking 
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Airport shuttle 

Price per night – 4,950 + taxes; breakfast included; free cancellation available

Places nearby – 

• Somatheeram Ayurveda Village
• Adimalathura Animation Centre

Google reviews – 4.1/5

3. Niraamaya Wellness Retreat, Surya Samudra, Kovalam 

Niraamaya Wellness Retreat is one of the famous stays that offers ayurvedic treatment and much more. Here is everything you need to know about Niraamaya Wellness Retreat- 

Location – P.O., Pulinkudi Rd, Vizhinjam, Mullur, Kazhivoor, Kerala 695521

Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra Kovalam

Services – 

• Wi-Fi (Free)
• Air conditioning
• Fitness centre
• Outdoor swimming pool 
• Free on-site parking 
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Spa 
• Airport shuttle 
• Room services

Price per night – 12,500 + taxes; breakfast included

Places nearby – 

• Cliviton’s Beach 
• Nandhikulam Mutharamman Temple
• Pulinkudi Beach

Google reviews – 4.8/5

4. The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel 

The Leela Kovalam is a 5-star luxurious stay that offers you the best amenities. Here is everything you need to know- 

Location – Kovalam, Beach Road, beach, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695527

The Leela Kovalam, a Raviz Hotel

Services – 

• Wi-Fi (Free)
• Air conditioning
• Fitness centre
• Outdoor swimming pool 
• Free on-site parking 
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Family rooms
• Airport shuttle 

Price per night – 20,500 + taxes; breakfast included

Places nearby – 

• Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
• Kovalam Cave
• Grow Beach Kovalam

Google reviews – 4.6/5

5. Taj Green Cove Resort and Spa, Kovalam

Taj Green Cove Resort and Spa is in the midst of nature and offers you peace. Here is everything you need to know- 

Location – GV Raja Rd, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695527

Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa, Kovalam

Services – 

• Wi-Fi (Free)
• Air conditioning
• Fitness centre
• Outdoor swimming pool 
• Free on-site parking 
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Family rooms
• Airport shuttle 
• Pets allowed 

Price per night – 16,500 + taxes; breakfast included

Places nearby – 

• Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
• Kovalam Cave
• Grow Beach Kovalam
• Sirajul Islam Masjid

Google reviews – 4.6/5

Top Eateries in Kerala 

Food is something that cannot be avoided, and when it comes to Kerala, the place offers you one of the best seafood, non-veg, and vegetarian food in India. Here are some of my recommendations for some finger-licking food, like Brindhavan Bypass,  Rice Boat, Villa Maya, and much more. Let’s dive into the details-

1. Brindhavan Bypass

Brindhavan Bypass is a vegetarian restaurant and is also known as people’s favourite. Here is all you need to know about Brindhavan Bypass-

• Location: 43/3075, NH 66, near Hotel Rock Rose, Chakkalakkal, Palarivattom, Kochi, Kerala 682025

Brindhavan Bypass

• Popular Dishes:

1. Masala Dosa with Sambar and Chutney 
2. Filter Coffee
3. Pothi Porotta

• Average Price: ₹ 200-300 for one.
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM

Google Reviews: 4.4/5

2. Paragon Restaurant

Paragon Restaurant is best known for its non-vegetarian food. The place is always packed with people. You can reserve a table in advance to avoid a long wait time. Here is all you need to know about Paragon Restaurant- 

• Location: Kannur Rd, near CH Over bridge, Kozhikode, Kerala 673001

Paragon Restaurant

• Popular Dishes:

1. Tender Coconut Pudding
2. Appam and Mutton Stew
3. Fish Biriyani

• Average Price: ₹ 200-400 for 1
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM

Google Reviews: 4.4/ 5

3. Rice Boat

Rice Boat Cafe is a cute and cozy place to hang out with friends and family while enjoying the landscape. Here are more details about Rice Boat Cafe- 

• Location: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Indira Gandhi Rd, Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682009

Rice Boat

• Popular Dishes:

1. Tiger Prawns 
2. Tiger Shrimp
3. Grilled Seafood Platter
4. Appam 
5. Ice Cream and Coconut Soufflé

• Average Price: ₹ 2000
• Timings: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM

7:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Google Reviews: 4.6/ 5

4. Villa Maya

Villa Maya is a fine dining restaurant where each dish is prepared with intricate flavors, textures, and presentations. Here is everything you need to know about Villa Maya- 

• Location: MUTHOOT SKY CHEF, No. 120 Palayam Airport Road, Near Vallakkadavu, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695008

Villa Maya

• Popular Dishes:

1. Kerala Veg Platter Lunch
2. Tender Coconut Broth
3. Syrian Beef Fry
4. Payasam

• Timings: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Google Reviews: 4.5/5

5. Dhe Puttu

Dhe Puttu offers some of the best Puttu flavours around with the real taste. Here is everything you need to know about Dhe Puttu-

• Location: 1st Floor, East Service Rd, NH 66, Edappally, Ernakulam, Kerala 682024

Dhe Puttu

• Popular Dishes:

1. Black Tea with Clove Flavour
2. Two Countries Puttu
3. Puttu with Kadala Curry
4. Odhe Puttu Special Meal

• Average Price: ₹ 200-400 for 1
• Timings: 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
• Google Reviews: 4.2/ 5

6. Seagull

Seagull is best known for its seafood and provides you with one of the best dining experiences. Here is more about Hotel Seagull- 

• Location: 2-18, Calvathy Rd, Fort, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001

Seagull

• Popular Dishes:

1. Beef Coconut Fry
2. Sniper Grilled Fish
3. Squid Rings
4. Squid Roast
5. Kerala Porotta

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM
• Google Reviews: 4.3/5

Dos and Don’ts During Your Visit to Kerala

Dos	Don’ts
Be respectful to the local culture and follow the customs, especially while visiting temples.	Do not wear revealing clothes. Make sure that your shoulders and knees are fully covered.
Most temples follow a particular dress code, so wear modest clothes	Refrain from littering around and keep the city clean.
Remove footwear before entering the temple.	Consuming alcohol in public areas is prohibited.
Carry an umbrella or a raincoat at all times.	Avoid clicking pictures at the restricted sites.
Don’t forget to carry mosquito repellent.
Try to speak in English or Malayalam, as people there are not well-versed in the Hindi language.
Do try the authentic Kerala cuisine.

Final Thoughts 

Kerala has always been a travel connoisseur, one of the favourite destinations in India. For budget-friendly travel, visit Kerala in the monsoon when the place is less crowded. During peak season, the accommodation in different parts increases by up to 20%-30%. But if you are someone who wants to explore the festivals and travel in the best season, visit Kerala in the winter.