Best time to visit

Best Time to Visit Kerla (Weather, Events, & More)

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Planning your trip to Kerala and wondering about the best time to visit? Kerala, with its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, is a must-visit destination in India. To fully enjoy its serene backwaters, sandy beaches, and lush hill stations, timing is key. This guide will help you determine the best time to visit Kerala, ensuring your vacation is as magical as the destination itself.

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Table of Contents

Best Overall Time to Visit Kerla

The best time to visit Kerla is typically from September to March when the weather is most pleasant, offering cool breezes and a comfortable climate perfect for exploring the lush landscapes and vibrant festivals. During these months, you'll experience the beauty of Kerla in full bloom, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, wildlife tours, and enjoying the local culture.

Visiting Kerla during the low season, which runs from April to August, has its pros and cons. On the upside, you'll benefit from fewer crowds and potentially lower prices on accommodation and activities. However, the cons include the monsoon weather from June to August, which can lead to heavy rains and possible flooding, potentially disrupting travel plans and outdoor activities. This season does offer lush, scenic views and the unique experience of Kerla's monsoon festivals, which are a spectacle in themselves.

Monthly Overview of Kerla

Month Season Avg. Days of Rainfall Avg. Temperature (°F/°C) Hotel Costs
January Dry 1 89/32 Low
February Dry 1 91/33 Low
March Dry 2 92/33 Medium
April Dry 6 92/33 Medium
May Wet 15 90/32 Medium
June Wet 23 84/29 High
July Wet 22 82/28 High
August Wet 20 82/28 High
September Wet 15 84/29 Medium
October Wet 15 86/30 Medium
November Dry 7 86/30 Low
December Dry 3 86/30 Low

Detailed Monthly Analysis

Here’s what to expect in Kerla in each month of the year:

Kerla in January

Visiting Kerala in January is a delightful experience as it's one of the best times to explore the region. The weather is pleasantly cool and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. January is part of the peak tourist season in Kerala due to its comfortable climate, so you'll find the state lively and vibrant.

Kerla in February

Visiting Kerala in February is a delight as it's one of the best times to explore this lush state. The weather is pleasantly warm and mostly dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in outdoor activities. It's a great time to enjoy the beaches, backwaters, and cultural festivals without the heavy tourist crowds of the peak season.

Kerla in March

Visiting Kerala in March is a delightful experience as you're catching the tail end of the winter season. The weather is pleasantly warm, making it perfect for exploring the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of the region. This is an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities before the onset of the hotter, humid summer months.

Kerla in April

Visiting Kerala in April is a vibrant experience, as the region transitions into the pre-monsoon season. The weather is warm, and the landscape is blooming, making it a picturesque time to explore. While occasional pre-monsoon showers may occur, they often bring a refreshing break from the heat, enhancing the lush greenery of the area.

Kerla in May

Visiting Kerala in May is quite the experience as you're stepping into the early phase of the monsoon. The weather is a mix of pre-monsoon heat and the onset of rain, making the region humid but vibrantly alive. This is a great time to see Kerala in its most lush, tropical state, though you should be prepared for frequent showers.

Kerla in June

Visiting Kerala in June is quite the experience as you're arriving right in the middle of the monsoon season. The landscape turns a vibrant green, waterfalls are at their most majestic, and the air is fresh and clean. While you should be prepared for frequent rains, these showers can also enhance the beauty of the region and make your visit uniquely memorable.

Kerla in July

Visiting Kerala in July is a unique experience, as you're arriving right in the middle of the monsoon season. The region is beautifully verdant during this time, with the rains bringing life to its famed backwaters and lush landscapes. While frequent showers are common, they often occur in bursts and can provide a refreshing respite from the typical humidity.

Kerla in August

Visiting Kerala in August is a unique experience, as you're arriving in the heart of the monsoon. The region is beautifully verdant during this time, with rainforests and backwaters appearing especially lush. While frequent rains are the norm, they often occur as swift, heavy showers, particularly in the afternoon, which can actually enhance the beauty of the landscape and provide a refreshing respite from the humidity.

Kerla in September

Visiting Kerala in September is quite the experience as you're catching the tail end of the monsoon. The landscape is vibrantly green and the rivers are full and lively. While you should be prepared for frequent rains, they often occur in short, heavy bursts which can provide a refreshing respite from the humidity.

Kerla in October

Visiting Kerala in October is a vibrant experience, as the region transitions from the monsoon to slightly drier weather. The landscape is beautifully lush, and while there are still frequent showers, the cooler climate makes it ideal for exploring the rich culture and natural beauty of the state.

Kerla in November

Visiting Kerala in November is a delightful experience as the monsoon season winds down, offering a refreshing and lush environment. The weather is pleasantly cool, and while there might be occasional showers, they are generally short-lived and contribute to the scenic beauty of the region. This is a great time to explore the backwaters, enjoy the local festivals, and indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Kerala.

Kerla in December

Visiting Kerala in December is a delightful experience as it marks the beginning of the dry season. The weather is cooler and less humid, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors. With the monsoon rains having just ended, the landscape is vibrant and lush, offering stunning views and a refreshing atmosphere.

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Special Events in Kerla to Look Out For

Onam

Thrissur Pooram

Theyyam

Vishu

Cochin Carnival

Nehru Trophy Boat Race

Makaravilakku

Attukal Pongala

Pro Tips for Traveling to Kerla

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Kerla Travel FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Kerala?
Yes, you'll need a visa to visit Kerala if you're not an Indian citizen. Most tourists opt for an e-Visa, which can be applied for online and is valid for 60 days. Make sure to apply at least four days before your travel date. Check the latest visa requirements specific to your country before planning your trip.

What currency is used in Kerala?
The Indian Rupee (INR) is the currency used throughout India, including Kerala. It's advisable to have some local currency for small purchases and in places that don't accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available, and most major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards.

What should I pack for a trip to Kerala?
Due to Kerala's tropical climate, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended. Include long sleeves and pants to protect against mosquitoes. A sturdy umbrella and a raincoat are must-haves, especially if you're visiting during the monsoon season from June to September. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

Do I need to speak Malayalam to visit Kerala?
No, you don't need to speak Malayalam, the local language of Kerala. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, making it easy to communicate. However, learning a few basic phrases in Malayalam can be endearing to local residents and enhance your experience.

Is Kerala safe for tourists?
Kerala is generally considered safe for tourists. Common sense travel safety applies—watch your belongings, don't wander alone at night in less populated or unfamiliar areas, and always keep emergency contacts handy. Women travelers should take the usual precautions as they would traveling anywhere else.

Is Kerala accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Accessibility in Kerala has been improving, but it can still be challenging in some areas. Major hotels, tourist centers, and new public buildings tend to be more accessible. However, smaller accommodations, public transport, and older buildings might not be equipped with adequate facilities for disabled travelers. It's a good idea to check with specific venues and services ahead of your visit.

What type of outlet is used in Kerala?
In Kerala, the power sockets are of type C, D, and M. The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. It's advisable to bring a universal travel adapter if your devices use different plugs.

What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is during the cooler, dry months from September to March. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the beaches. The monsoon season, from June to August, brings heavy rains, which can affect travel plans but also offers lush, scenic landscapes and is perfect for ayurvedic treatments.

Can I use my mobile phone in Kerala?
Yes, you can use your mobile phone in Kerala. If you're visiting from abroad, check with your service provider about international roaming charges. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card, which is widely available and relatively inexpensive, but you'll need your passport to register it.

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