Kerala is one of the top tourist destinations in the country! It is often called Godâs Own Country owing to its endless scenic beauty, untampered natureâs bounty, and commitment to ecological preservation.
ALSO SEE – Why is Kerala known as Gods Own Country?
Located in South India, Kerala is sandwiched between the expansive Arabian Sea on one side and the mesmerizing Western Ghats on the other. It offers multiple exciting experiences with its beaches, hill stations, backwaters, colorful festivals, and a vivid culture that brings an enormous influx of travelers here every year!
The best time to visit Kerala is between September and March in winter. The weather is comfortable and pleasant in winter. While the beaches and backwaters experience warm days and cool nights with gentle sea breeze, hill stations in Kerala are blessed with a pleasingly cool climate in winter in Kerala. Itâs also the ideal time to visit Kerala to enjoy festivals like Onam and Snake Boat Races in Kerala.
With the best months to visit Kerala are from September to March, the summer season in Kerala, generally the offseason, starts in April and ends in May. Monsoon comes twice a year from June to September and October-November.
Weather In Kerala
Kerala has three seasons – Summer, Winter, and Monsoon.
Kerala tourism peak season is the winter season from September to March.
Look at this season-wise data to know the best time to visit Kerala and plan your holiday accordingly.
| Months | Seasons | Average Temperature | Weather Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| September-March | Winter | 18°C – 28°C | Cool and pleasant all day |
| April-May | Summer | 29°C – 36°C | Hot days and warm nights |
| June-September | Monsoon | 20°C – 30°C | Heavy to moderate rainfall |
Kerala temperature also differs with altitude:
- On the plains, it ranges from 28°C to 36°C
- In the hills, it stays around 20°C.
While September to March (winter) is the best time to see Kerala, high-altitude places like Munnar, Wayanad, and Vagamon can be visited at any time of the year regardless of the season.
What is the best time to visit Kerala and why?
September to March are the best months to visit Kerala in India because:
- The weather is pleasant and salubrious
- Youâll be greeted with cool winds
- Humidity levels are low
- The daytime temperature is also comfortable
- The surroundings are lush green owing to the monsoons
Kerala winter weather is comfortable and pleasant with less humidity. Every part of Kerala can be explored with ease.
Itâs the perfect time to visit:
- Backwaters
- Hill stations
- Beaches
- Forests
- Wildlife sanctuaries
- Waterfalls
- Tea plantations and spice farms
FUN FACT: You can enjoy many festivals in Kerala in winter. September is the time when Kerala hosts Onam, the most popular Kerala festival! December is the time for Kochi Muziris Biennale besides extensive Christmas and New Year celebrations.
ALSO SEE – Top 12 Best Places to Visit in Kerala (with Map)
Book your stay in Kerala way in advance as winter is the best time to visit Kerala for both its natural beauty and its celebration of Christmas and New Year!
â Winter season in Kerala (November to February)
The winter season in Kerala begins roughly in late September and goes on till March. The temperature in Kerala in winter starts falling in late November as the northeast monsoon recedes. While the temperature does not vary much, the winter season in Kerala is slightly cooler with lower humidity levels.
Itâs, without a doubt, the most ideal time to visit Kerala!
September is the cheapest month to visit Kerala due to greenery after monsoon and off season hotel rates and plan your trip accordingly.
Weather in Kerala in winter
Kerala has cool and pleasant weather in the winter season. Even sunny and hot days are accompanied by cool winds and a pleasing sea breeze. Specifically, December has the best weather in the winter season and is the perfect time to visit.
The winter climate in Kerala is cool and comfortable, the humidity is at its lowest, and the air is crisp and sweet.
Winter starts in September, and you begin to feel the coolness in the air and see the renewed freshness of Keralaâs foliage in late November.
Evenings and mornings are cool on the plains and quite chilly in hilly areas like Munnar and Wayanad. The temperature falls even further at night!
Temperature in winter in Kerala
Kerala temperature in winter differs per the diverse topography here.
On average, the Kerala winter temperature ranges between 18°C to 29°C and dips even lower in hilly areas.
The average minimum temperature in Kerala during winter remains around 18°C but drops as low as 10°C in high-altitude places like Munnar, Vagamon, and Wayanad.
Keralaâs average maximum temperature in winter is 29°C. It may rise a degree or two on really sunny days, but the weather remains pleasant and windy.
The average temperature in winter is 28°C and the minimum temperature is around 18°C.
In the hilly regions of Munnar and Thekkady,
- the maximum temperature is 25°C,
- and the minimum temperature is 10°C.
ALSO SEE – Complete list of best things to do in Kerala with Photos
Places to visit in Kerala during winter
There are several tourist places in Kerala that you can visit in the winter season owing to its amazing weather, uninterrupted gorgeous scenery, and refreshing greenery.
Some of the best Kerala places for that perfect winter sojourn would include:
- Munnar – Rolling green pastures covered in mist
- Thekkady – Where the wild live!
- Alleppey – Sailing houseboats on emerald-green waters
- Kochi – Golden sands and sleepy fishing villages
- Kumarakom – Exotic birds and enchanting canals
- Vagamon – Unspoilt green hills and endless adventure
- Kovalam – Ayurvedic massages on a picturesque coastline
- Varkala – Artsy cliffs, swaying palms and virgin shores
- Wayanad – A mystical paradise in the Nilgiris
With ideal weather, winter is the best time to visit Kerala for sightseeing, making it the peak tourist season. You can try out water sports, sail the Alleppey backwaters in a houseboat, or just explore the stateâs picturesque green valleys and clear blue skies.
There is so much to see and things to do in Kerala in the winter season, all you have to do is take your pick.
Whether you go on a jungle safari in Keralaâs wildlife sanctuaries to spot wildlife and birds, or soak in the sights and sounds of the forest, youâll end up having the most wonderful time!
There are so many places to explore in Kerala in this season that itâll be hard to pick just a few.
Reasons to visit Kerala during winter
Looking for reasons to go to Kerala in the winter? We got plenty!
1. Endless Adventure!
Winter is the most favorable time to engage in activities like watersports, trekking, camping, wildlife safaris, sailing on the backwaters, and sightseeing in Kerala.
2. Awesome Weather
During winter, tourists are greeted with lush greenery all around, clear blue skies, and refreshing cool winds without the discomfort of scorching heat and gross humidity.
Winter gives travelers in Kerala the most comfortable and amicable weather conditions to meander through its spice plantations, trek high up its rolling hills, cruise its canals and rivers, and interact with its wildlife via thrilling nature safaris in national parks and sanctuaries.
3. Festival Fever!
A trip to Kerala in late December also gives vacationers a chance to indulge in Christmas and New Year festivities that make this place all the more lively and cheerful every year! The cities and towns are gift-wrapped in twinkling fairy lights, decked up with tall Christmas trees, and filled with the aroma of plum cakes and spicy Keralan cuisine.
4. Shopping
Itâs also a great time to go shopping in Kerala. The markets are brimming with activity and there are great festive discounts on traditional items and handicrafts. So if you want to stock up on the finest coffee, spices, Malayali textiles, aroma oils, terracotta and brass items, jewelry, handicrafts, and more, winter would be the best time to visit Kerala for a fun retail therapy.
Kerala travel tips for winter
- Book flight tickets and hotel rooms way in advance. Since itâs the peak season, itâll be hard to get good deals at the last minute.
- Try and visit offbeat places like Vagamon, Ponmudi, and Kumarakom for peace and seclusion.
- Even though the monsoon season is over, carry an umbrella.
- Pack light cotton clothes, hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
- Popular cities and locations might get a tad crowded. Start your day early and cover prominent tourist spots before noon.
- Large crowds would also mean slower service at restaurants and lengthy queues at ticket counters. Be patient.
- Pack a light jacket/cardigan and long pants if youâre visiting the hilly areas of Kerala as winter nights there can get chilly.
- Donât forget your camera!
Kerala has 25 wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. The state is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
ALSO SEE – Top 10 Best Beaches in Kerala To Visit on your holiday (UPDATED)
đ§ď¸ Monsoon season in Kerala (June to mid-September, October-November)
2024 Monsoons in Kerala will start on June 1 or earlier and is a good time to visit Kerala for Ayurveda.
It rains in Kerala during monsoon months in June, July and August which has heaviest rainfall in Kerala is considered as off season in Kerala.
There are two monsoon seasons in Kerala:
- The Southwest monsoon season from June till about August/September.
- The Northeast monsoon during October.
The Southwest monsoon is the main rainy season in Kerala and the best time to visit Kerala to experience refreshing monsoon showers. Kerala receives light drizzles as well as torrential rain during this time and humidity levels soar.
However, the Kerala monsoon provides relief from the scorching heat, makes rivers and waterfalls flow in full gusto, and turns the surrounding areas green and rejuvenating.
Monsoon temperature in June, July and August in Kerala varies from 20°C – 30°C with hill stations being cool and plains being moderately warm and humid.
ALSO SEE – Hill Stations in Kerala-Your Complete Guide
The humidity starts to recede around mid-August as rainfall gradually reduces. Rainy Season in Kerala ends by September and climate of Kerala turns salubrious and clean.
September is one of the best months to visit Kerala with family.
ALSO SEE- Why is September the best month to visit Kerala?
The monsoon season returns in October and is called the Northeast monsoon season. There is heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning for few days only.
The maximum temperature during monsoon is around 35°C, while the minimum temperature is around 28°C.
We have highlighted below all that this season offers and what you should expect if you choose to visit Kerala during the monsoon season.
ALSO SEE – A Pleasant & Memorable Solo Woman Ayurveda Trip!
Weather in Kerala in monsoon
Monsoon in Kerala is characterized by lush green foliage and high humidity. Youâll be met with frequent yet refreshing showers in Kerala during this time. If you wish to witness the splendor of rain in Kerala and do not mind the humidity, you can visit during this season.
Though the heavy rainfall and icky humidity can get a little uncomfortable at times, Kerala mostly experiences pleasant, cool weather during this time with lush greenery all around.
It is ideal to travel to Kerala in the monsoon season when the weather is moist and cool. Tourists also find it a great time to visit for Ayurvedic massages and treatments that Kerala is famous for.
Hence, the monsoon season is nothing short of the best season to visit Kerala for Ayurvedic healing and resplendent foliage.
Temperature in Kerala in monsoon
The average temperature during the monsoon season in Kerala ranges from 19°C to 30°C. Temperature goes down further on nights with heavy rainfall.
The days remain warm and humid, but the temperature only rises to 30°C on most days, reaching a maximum of 38°C on fewer occasions.
Places to visit in Kerala during monsoon
Kerala is nothing less of a paradise in the monsoon season.
Whether you seek peace and tranquility amidst the untouched reserves of nature or wish to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime experience like houseboat rides and Ayurvedic Spa, the rainy season will be a great time to visit Kerala for it all.
You can visit places like:
- Munnar – Dewy fields of tea
- Wayanad – Green hills and fierce waterfalls
- Thekkady – Boat rides through misty greenery
- Kumarakom – Backwater cruises in the rain!
- Marari Beach – Sea-side serenity
- Kochi – Relaxing Ayurvedic massages
- Vythiri – Refreshing greenery
- Ashtamudi Lake – Pretty houseboats and cozy homestays
- Bekal – A picturesque fort on the coast
- Varkala – Breezy palm trees and red cliffs
While places like Munnar and Wayanad will offer you pleasant weather and lush foliage, seaside destinations like Kochi and Trivandrum will bestow you with tranquil beaches, cool ocean winds, and low-priced Ayurvedic massage therapies in monsoon in Kerala.
Reasons to visit Kerala during monsoon
The monsoon season is a time of endless fun and adventure in Kerala. Hereâs how:
1. Ayurvedic Treatments
Itâs the best time to indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage therapies and Ayurvedic Spa in Kerala at affordable rates.
Many Ayurvedic centers and resorts roll out budget deals on their Ayurveda packages that you wonât get at any other time of the year.
Monsoon is the most suitable time to visit this state for Ayurvedic therapies for yet another reason – this moist and dust-free environment makes Ayurvedic treatments more comfortable and effective.
2. Lush Foliage
Dripping of dew, the flora is at its most refreshing phase throughout Keralaâs monsoon season.
Itâs almost as if the rains give a boost to Keralaâs natural beauty, bringing it to life!
The forests of Thekkady and Wayanad, the otherwise parched vegetation of Kochi and Trivandrum, the amber-hued backwater banks of Alleppey and Kumarakom, and the rolling pastures of Munnar and Vythiri are most vibrant and thriving this time of the year!
And to top it all, those exciting tours of spice, coffee, and tea plantations become all the more enjoyable and rewarding!
3. Lovely Waterfalls
Waterfalls in Kerala cascade in full force during the monsoon season. While most waterfalls will be overflowing during the peak rainy season and somewhat dangerous to visit, the time right after monsoons will be perfect for paying a visit to these sweet locations.
Waterfalls like Athirappilly, Palaruvi, Soochipara, Lakkom, Meenmutty, and Marmala will be in their most beautiful and rejuvenating state. A trek to these surreal spots through the lush jungles and a dip in the refreshing waters will recharge your mind, body, and soul!
4. Aranmula Boat Race
Witness Keralaâs famous snake boat races that are held mainly during the monsoon season in a multitude of places.
You can attend the colorful Aranmula Boat Race in Aranmula, the Payippad Boat Race in the Payippad River, the Kallada Boat Race in Kollam, or the Vallam Kali boat race at the festival of Onam. Other than these, the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race of Alappuzha is the most fascinating of all!
Infused with energy, these colorful fiestas are part of some of the oldest traditions of Kerala that shouldnât be missed!
5. Heavy Discounts On Stays
Visit Godâs Own Country in monsoon and save big on your trip!
Considering itâs the off-season and tourists typically do not visit Kerala during this time, most hotels and homestays come up with discounts, deals, and super-saver offers to attract people to Kerala.
6. Less Crowd
The off-season of monsoon is the best time to visit Kerala for yet another reason – utter peace and serenity!
There will be fewer people around, shorter queues at ticket counters, no pushing and shoving at famous tourist spots, no over-crowded restaurants, no litter on beaches, and no photobombers ruining your Instagram reels and selfies!
Kerala travel tips for monsoon
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat even if itâs not raining in real-time.
- Pack an extra pair of clothes for each day.
- Wear light cotton or linen clothes to absorb excess moisture and beat the humidity.
- Carry mosquito repellents and lotions.
- Carry proper medication for fungal infections if your body cannot handle humidity.
- Wear footwear and clothes that fully cover your legs during forest treks to avoid nasty encounters with insects and leeches.
- Carry plastic bags to keep your electronic gadgets dry.
- Keep a tab on the Kerala weather forecast and always check it before stepping out.
- Make sure the places you wish to visit are open before you go there since many tourist spots are closed during heavy showers.
ALSO SEE – Top 10 Best Traditional Kerala Dance Forms That Will Enchant You!
âď¸ Summer season in Kerala (March to June)
The period from March to May marks the summer season in Kerala. The data given below will tell you what this season is like and whether or not you should plan a trip to Kerala in summer.
The summer season in Kerala begins at the end of February or the beginning of March and stays till June.
May is the hottest month in Kerala during summer.
The maximum temperature stays around 35°C, while the minimum temperature is 28°C.
While this may not be the best time to visit Kerala for those leisurely walks on the beach, a thrilling jungle safari, or a backwater cruise, itâs the perfect time to head to its pleasing cool hills.
The weather in Keralaâs hill stations like Munnar is more pleasant with an average temperature of 25°C-28°C. Occasional rain and thundershowers are common in hill stations.
And the best part – youâll find less crowd and cheaper accommodation everywhere in Kerala during summertime!
Weather in Kerala in summer
The summer season is distinguished by hot and dry weather conditions in Kerala. The weather in plains and coastal areas becomes warm and humid.
The temperature remains high throughout the day. There is no respite from the heat even at night owing to the stateâs proximity to the ocean.
Itâs dry and blazing in the plains, but the weather in the hill stations of Kerala remains pleasant. Occasional rain and thundershowers are common in Keralaâs hills even in the summer season.
While summer may not be the right time to visit Kerala for beach activities, backwater cruises, and sightseeing, itâs a great time to head to the hills here.
Temperature in summer in Kerala
- The average temperature in summer ranges between 28°C to 38°C.
- Even in the evenings, Kerala summer temperature remains at a high 28°C with hot and dry winds with its proximity to the ocean.
- In March, the temperature climbs to a high 35°C with high heat and humidity.
- The temperature stays a pleasant 25°C-27°C in the hills of Kerala and dips further at night, a true delight if youâre a mountain person!
Places to visit in Kerala in summer
In this season, there are several locations that you can explore. Some of the best Kerala places for that perfect summer escapade include:
- Munnar – Lush green misty hills
- Vagamon – Virgin natural beauty and cool winds
- Ponmudi – The Ooty of Kerala!
- Wayanad – Refreshing foliage and adventure activities
- Lakkidi – Unspoilt hills and nature hikes
- Thrissur – Thrissur Pooram festival and waterfalls
Most of these are high-altitude places and relatively cooler than other parts of the state, especially in summer.
Even in this season, Kerala is frequented by a large number of travelers drawn to its empty beaches, pristine hills, and low-priced hotels and resorts. Itâs a good time to visit Kerala for utter serenity and absence of interference.
Reasons to visit Kerala during summer
There are loads of reasons why a trip to Kerala in this season wonât be a bad idea!
1. Less Crowd
Despite having somewhat unfavorable weather for sightseeing and exploring, this offseason in Kerala receives a large influx of tourists drawn by the empty beaches, hills, towns, and tourist attractions.
Itâs the best time to visit Kerala and explore the natural beauty of this state in its most pristine form as you wonât find a massive crowd of tourists at the popular hotspots.
2. Great Deals on Hotels
Hotel prices are at their lowest in the Summer season! Itâs a great time to visit if you want a budget vacation.
Resorts, homestays, Airbnb’s, and top hotels roll out amazing deals and packages to lure in people, often giving away services like Spa and day tours for free!
You wouldnât want to miss this chance to stay at your favorite resorts or hotels in Kerala in Summer at rock-bottom prices!
3. The Colorful Thrissur Pooram
Kerala celebrates the vibrant and cheerful festival of Thrissur Pooram every year in April/May and itâs an experience you shouldnât miss.
Itâs one of the most important festivals in the state and an absolute treat for travelers who wish to immerse in the local culture and traditions of Kerala.
The festival lasts for three whole days and is an impressive extravaganza of folk dances, percussion music, elephants dressed in gold, colorful umbrellas, and a sumptuous buffet!
4. Tranquility & Peace
Summer is a great time to explore Kerala if you wish to enjoy seclusion, peace, and privacy at all its locations, especially magnificent hill stations like Munnar.
Imagine lying on a beach with no one around! Or enjoying uninterrupted views of the Alleppey backwaters while sailing on your houseboat! Or walking through the tea estates of Munnar with not another soul for miles! Sounds tempting, doesnât it?
Kerala travel tips for summer
- Pack light-colored and airy clothes, preferably linens and cotton.
- Donât forget your sunscreen (SPF 30+ is recommended), hats, and sunglasses at home.
- Carry a water bottle with you at all times and stay hydrated. Do not buy plastic bottles.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes that can dry quickly.
- Have frequent meals in small proportions throughout the day, instead of having two or three heavy meals.
- Consume hydrating fruits and drink lots of coconut water.
- Do not litter.
ALSO SEE – Best Places To Visit In Munnar
Best time to visit Kerala for peace & low crowd – Offseason bliss!
Kerala typically observes the highest influx of local and international tourists in the peak tourist season in Kerala from mid-December and ends mid-February.
Prices for hotel stays, flights, transport, food, and tourist activities are high during these months. Large crowds at major tourist attractions and markets, lengthy queues at ticket counters, and slow service in restaurants and hotels can cause a nuisance when one travels to Kerala in the peak season.
To avoid that, you can make your tour and hotel bookings well in advance and visit offbeat places to steer clear of the crowds.
OR
You can travel to Kerala in the shoulder season instead!
Taking a trip in the off-season will let you enjoy benefits like:
- Less crowds and shorter queues
- Cheaper stays – significant price drops in hotels, resorts, and homestays
- Affordable flight tickets
- Utter peace, seclusion and serenity
- Quiet, clean and empty beaches
- Price cuts on fine dining, handicrafts, and local transport
- Big deals and discounts on Ayurvedic treatments
- Multiple festivals to attend!
Kerala essentially has two shoulder seasons:
- Monsoon season (June – Mid-September; October & November)
- Summer season (April – May)
Out of these two, monsoon is the best time to visit Kerala. The state turns greener and fresher during this time and the misty pitter patter is nothing but romantic and downright pleasing! You get to see Kerala in its most refreshed and gorgeous state if you visit in monsoon!
All you need to do is keep a check on the weather forecast and not step out in heavy downpours and your Kerala holiday in monsoon will be one exhilarating affair!
Summer is the second shoulder season in Kerala and though itâs quite hot at this time, this season has its own charm and grace.
A summer trip to Kerala can be just as comfortable and enjoyable if you make sure to stay near prominent tourist locations, step out early in the morning to cover most points in your itinerary, wear lots of sunscreen, a hat, and airy cotton clothes, and stay hydrated!
ALSO SEE – Offseason in Kerala
Whether you plan a trip to Kerala in winter, monsoon, or the summer season, youâll find a treasure trove of engaging and extraordinary experiences to enjoy!
Kerala has a rich history and vivid culture with various classical dances and martial art forms. Itâs known for its beautiful architecture and monuments exhibiting influences of the Dutch, Portuguese, and British who had once occupied Kerala as a trading center.
Itâs also famous for its deliciously spicy cuisine from seafood and curries, to varied veg and non-veg delicacies. Itâs also the epitome of Ayurvedic healing through therapeutic Spas and treatment centers.
But what truly leaves guests speechless is this destinationâs topography which changes from rolling hills to serene backwaters, pristine beaches, magical tea and coffee plantations, and boundless lush greenery every few miles!
Keralaâs charming forests are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna protected under 25 different wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, making this state a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Every season in Kerala offers unique experiences and adventures. All you have to do is plan your vacation around the best time to visit Kerala and youâll not miss out on any of these mind-blowing experiences that Godâs Own Country has to offer! Start planning right away!
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