Is Kerala safe to travel?

Is it safe to visit Kerala in 2025?

As India’s top tourist destination, Kerala receives an enormous influx of visitors every year courtesy of its resplendent landscapes, backwaters, beaches, and rich heritage. Many travelers, however, still face the dilemma of whether it is safe to travel to Kerala. To help you plan and prepare better, we’ve put together a brief evaluation of Kerala’s safety scenario with tips derived from its crime statistics, health advisories, natural disaster preparedness, and tourist safety initiatives.

Kerala is considered a safe destination for travelers overall. It’s known for its low crime rate, measures to ensure tourist safety, commendable health infrastructure, and its welcoming and hospitable people.

Is Kerala safe to travel now?

Kerala is considered one of the safest states in India, especially for tourists. On the testimonials of recent Indian and international visitors, Kerala has been labeled Kerala as one of the most travel-friendly destinations in India.
As per several traveler testimonials and reviews visitors have provided on different platforms like Reddit, Kerala is safe, hospitable, and brimming with natural beauty!

ALSO SEE – Kerala Travel Guide (UPDATED)

Several solo female travelers sharing their experiences on travel forums and personal blogs often only have good things to say about God’s Own Country for its commendable initiatives towards ensuring the safety of women, practicing vigilant policing, and the warm gestures of Kerala’s friendly locals in assisting tourists.

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Other than the safety measures it has in place, Kerala also consistently ranks high courtesy of its health infrastructure and commitment to sustainability. If travelers adhere to basic safety protocols, plan well, and respect local customs, they can experience the true magic of God’s Own Country without any hassle!

You can always check the website keralatourism.org for any updates from the Government of Kerala on the most updated travel advisory.

Personal security & safety in Kerala

As per the National Crime Records Bureau, Kerala consistently has one of the lowest crime rates among all Indian states, which can be attributed to stringent law enforcement and the vigilant ‘Tourist Police’ initiative launched by the Kerala Tourism Department.

However, one should still adhere to the following safety guidelines when traveling anywhere in India:

• Be attentive of your surroundings and stay alert, especially in crowded places like markets, temples, and the bustling streets of Kochi and Trivandrum.
• Even though reports of petty theft are rare in Kerala, it’s best to secure your belongings with anti-theft bags, especially in crowded tourist hubs.
• Avoid going into isolated areas and narrow lanes alone, especially after dark. Stick to areas that are properly lit and populated.

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Maintaining health & hygiene on a trip to Kerala

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), Kerala is an exemplary state owing to its stellar advancements in healthcare and sanitation.

Kerala’s health authorities are often applauded for designing and enforcing strict health advisories and thorough sanitation measures. They have consistently helped safeguard both residents and travelers.

Also, Kerala boasts of some of the best hospitals in India as per NITI Aayog’s annual ‘Health Index’. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana are the best states in the country when it comes to access to quality medical care!

Regardless, travelers are expected to:

• Eat only at popular and government-certified restaurants and toddy shops. If you wish to try the food at local food joints, check their online reviews first.
• Stay hydrated but avoid drinking tap water. Only drink sealed bottled water or the clean water provided in your hotel.
• Get routine vaccinations like typhoid and hepatitis A and B. These have been recommended by the CDC.
• Carry a basic first aid kit with necessary medication and keep it handy.
• Carry mosquito repellent and medication for leech bites if you plan to go hiking into forested areas in the rain.
• Wear light-colored cotton or linen clothes to beat the heat and humidity.
• If you’re traveling with babies, refrain from stepping out when it’s hot. Engage in outdoor activities early morning or in the evening.

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Tourism initiatives for female travelers

Is Kerala safe to travel for women? Without a doubt!

Kerala ranks high on the list of the safest states in India for women travelers. In addition to Goa, Nagaland, Manipur, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat, Kerala too is considered absolutely safe for female travelers and locals.

According to an article in the Economic Times, this is partly due to the recent Women-Friendly Tourism Initiative launched by Kerala Tourism to make this state one of the safest destinations for female travelers worldwide!

Here are a few suggestions for a safe Kerala holiday, especially if you’re a solo female traveler:

• Use only trusted cab services and rideshare apps like Uber (in major cities) or local apps like Kerala Savaari.
• Dress modestly and respectfully, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
• Opt for hotels or homestays with positive, credible reviews located in populated places.
• Do not venture into secluded areas and alleys alone, especially after dark. Stick to populated places.
• Keep your friends and family informed of your whereabouts at all times and maintain constant communication.

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Environmental concerns to look out for

Kerala’s topography makes it prone to floods and landslides in the monsoon. The Wayanad landslides of 2024 brought to light the risks of heavy rainfall combined with over-tourism in the hilly regions of Kerala.

The Kerala government has been actively coming up with ways to combat the situation and has made the following suggestions to travelers.

• Keep a tab on local weather updates, especially if you’re traveling to Kerala in the monsoon between June and September.
• Avoid trekking or altogether visiting hilly areas during heavy rains.
• Hire an experienced and certified guide for all-season activities like trekking, jungle safaris, and camping.
• Carefully read the disaster management advisories issued by local authorities and the India Meteorological Department.
• Do not smoke or consume alcohol inside Kerala’s forested areas.
• If you wish to go snorkeling, diving, and surfing, make sure you do it under careful supervision only, especially during high tides or the monsoon.
• Avoid driving, walking, or riding a bike in the dark in the foggy, hilly regions of Kerala like Munnar, Wayand, and Vythiri. This is especially dangerous in the forests and on winding roads of such places.

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Cultural and social etiquette

Make sure you respect and adhere to the norms and customs of Kerala, as that too helps a great deal in ensuring an enriching and safe travel experience.

• Remove your shoes before entering the homes of local people or places of worship.
• Avoid public displays of affection, especially in crowded places and tourist attractions, as it’s culturally inappropriate and frowned upon.
• Seek permission of the locals before clicking their pictures or taking videos, especially in rural and tribal areas.
• Cover your head, shoulders, and knees before entering a temple.
• Be punctual. Malayali people tend to be strict about punctuality, whether showing up for a simple cab reservation or arriving for a houseboat tour.

ALSO SEE – Why Kerala Is Called ‘God’s Own Country’

Responsible Tourism & adherence to sustainability

The Responsible Tourism initiative of Kerala Tourism has won global acclaim for its focus and constant efforts towards sustainability.

As per the Global Sustainable Tourism Council Criteria developed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Kerala is among the top sustainable destinations across the world!

Travelers visiting Kerala are encouraged to:

• Avoid littering and spitting in Kerala. Use designated waste bins for disposing of trash.
• Opt for package tours and houseboats that have been certified as eco-friendly by Kerala Tourism.
• Support local artisans and craftsmen by purchasing only authentic handmade products and handicrafts.
• Observe animals and birds from a distance. Avoid feeding, hurting, or startling them in any way whether you encounter them on a safari, in a zoo, or on a hike.
• Do not engage in flash photography while clicking pictures of animals, birds, and marine life.

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Consistently securing a high rank for its commendable safety measures, reliable health infrastructure, and undying commitment to sustainability, Kerala is a safe and welcoming destination for all!

So, did you find the answer to the question “Is Kerala safe to travel?” Thanks to the state’s proactive governance and dedicated efforts towards ensuring a secure environment for visitors, Kerala is among the safest places to visit in India and perfect for your next getaway!