Are you ready to embark on a journey to a land that seems like it’s straight out of a storybook? Then mark your calendar for a magical trip to Kerala – God’s Own Country. Just imagine – lush hills dotted with tea plantations, pristine backwaters teeming with birdlife, historic palaces hidden among palm groves, and crisp, clear beaches stretching endlessly towards the horizon. And that’s before we even get to the magical Ayurvedic treatments, mouthwatering cuisine, and quintessentially Indian culture. But when should you visit to soak up all the wonders Kerala offers? Find out in the blog!
Best Time to Visit Kerala
The best time to visit this enchanting land depends on your preferences and the kind of experience you seek.
Winter (November to February):
The winter months are considered the best time to visit Kerala. The weather during this period is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for exploring the state’s diverse attractions. The temperature ranges from 18 to 32 degrees Celsius, providing a comfortable environment for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It is the peak tourist season, so popular destinations can get crowded. However, the bustling atmosphere adds to the festive charm, and you can enjoy various cultural events and festivities.
Monsoon (June to September):
For nature enthusiasts and those seeking a unique experience, the monsoon season in Kerala offers a magical allure. The landscape transforms into a lush green paradise as the rain rejuvenates the forests and backwaters. The monsoon showers are intermittent, so you can still find moments to explore. It is also a great time to indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, as the rainy weather enhances the healing process. However, some tourist activities might be limited due to the weather conditions.
Summer (March to May):
The summer season in Kerala can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 29 to 36 degrees Celsius. While the coastal areas offer respite with cool sea breezes, the inland regions can be scorching. It is an excellent time for beach lovers who want to soak up the sun and enjoy water sports. The hill stations of Munnar and Wayanad offer a pleasant escape from the heat. If you can bear the warmth, summer can be an affordable time to visit, with fewer crowds and discounted rates.
Post-Monsoon (October and November)
The post-monsoon period is another favorable time to visit Kerala. The monsoon recedes, leaving behind fresh and rejuvenated surroundings. The weather is relatively cooler, and the landscapes are still lush and green. It is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts, as the national parks and wildlife reserves are teeming with flora and fauna. The tourist rush is yet to start, so you can enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful vacation.
Hence, the best time to visit Kerala depends on your preferences and the type of experience you want to have. Each season offers something unique, from vibrant festivals and cultural events in winter to the tranquil charm of the monsoons and the pleasant post-monsoon ambiance. Whatever time you choose to visit, Kerala will leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return to its mystical allure time and again.
What to Pack for Kerala Trip?
Clothes/Shoes
- Light cotton clothes that are comfortable and breathable
- A jacket or sweater for cooler nights or hill stations
- Raincoat or umbrella for the monsoon season
- Swimwear and beachwear if you are planning to visit the coast
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for walking and exploring
- Flip-flops or slippers for indoor use or beach visits
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
Travel Essentials
- Passports, visas, tickets, and travel insurance documents
- Cash, credit or debit cards, and a money belt or pouch
- Mobile phone, charger, power bank, and adapter
- Camera, memory card, batteries, and tripod
- Toiletries, personal hygiene items, and medications
- First aid kit, insect repellent and other mandatory pills
- Water bottles, snacks, and reusable bags
Things to Do in Kerala
Kerala has something for every traveller looking for adventure, relaxation, romance or spirituality. Here are some of the best things to do in Kerala to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Cruise Kerala’s Backwaters in Style
Float through the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey in a traditional houseboat. Gaze at lush coconut groves, quaint villages, and paddy fields with nodding palms as you nibble on delicious Keralite cuisine. There’s no better way to experience Kerala’s famed languid pace of life!
2. Be spellbound by Tea Plantations
Munnar’s rolling tea hills are nothing short of spectacular. Visit the Kannan Devan Plantation Museum to witness tea processing and sample different varieties. Take a jeep tour through Kolukkumalai Tea Estate for a sensory extravaganza; suddenly, you’re surrounded by the fresh scent of tea leaves and soothing vistas of mist-swept mountains.
3. Marvel at Heritage Architecture
Lose yourself in the magnificence of Kerala’s historic buildings, like the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, with its intricate carvings, sculptures, and secret treasure vaults filled with untold riches. Steeped in fascinating legends, these architectural wonders transport you back in time.
4. Relax on Golden Beaches
Rejuvenate your soul on the breathtaking beaches of Varkala, Kovalam, and Cherai, fringed with swaying palms and washing up against the tranquil Arabian Sea. When you’re done lounging serenely, indulge in authentic Ayurvedic treatments to heal mind, body, and spirit.
5. Experience Age-Old Ayurveda
Get pampered at one of Kerala’s Ayurveda healing resorts and let the magic of ancient health techniques work their rejuvenating effects. From herbal oil massages to steam therapies using medicinal plants to panchakarma cleansing, let traditional wisdom nurture your inner well-being.
6. Delight in Cultural Performances
Witness how Kerala’s deep-rooted cultural heritage comes alive in spellbinding dance forms like Kathakali drama and Mohiniyattam dance or the vibrant ritual art of Theyyam—expressions that have enthralled audiences for generations.
Things to Eat in Kerala
Kerala is a state in India that is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. The food of Kerala reflects the influence of various cultures, such as Malabari, Arab, French, Portuguese and British. The food of Kerala also uses a lot of local ingredients, such as rice, coconut, fish, spices and bananas. Here are some of the things to eat in Kerala that you should not miss:
- Sadya – The king of Kerala meals! A Sadya Thali is a feast of 20-30 dishes served on a banana leaf. It includes Rice, Rasam, Sambar, Avial, Olan, Papadum, Pickles and Payasam Dessert.
- Kerala fish curry – A signature Kerala dish made with local spices like coconut, turmeric and curry leaves. Popular varieties include Meen Moilee (fish curry in coconut milk), Erachi Ularthiyathu (prawn fry) and Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish banana leaf pack).
- Appam and stew – South Indian pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk. Typically served with Chicken or Mutton Stew, Egg Curry or Molaga Podi.
- Puttu and kadala – A traditional breakfast made of cylindrical steamed rice flour cakes served with roasted chickpea curry.
- Banana chips – Thinly sliced banana fried in spices and coconut oil. A popular Kerala street snack.
- Idiyappam – Rice noodles made by dripping fermented rice batter onto a bamboo griddle. Usually served with chicken curry.
- Unni appam – Sweet pancake made with rice flour, jaggery and coconut milk.
- Kochu patta chutney – Coconut and lime leaf chutney made with fresh coconut, lime leaves, green chili and salt. A versatile condiment that can be eaten with almost any meal.
Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala has many places to visit that will suit your interests and preferences. Some of the places to visit in Kerala are:
1. Munnar
Munnar is a scenic hill station nestled in the Western Ghats known for its rolling hills of tea plantations. You can spend hours trekking through the trails amidst the colonial buildings and vast swathes of tea estates while enjoying panoramic views of hills and valleys. The sweet fragrance of tea leaves adds to the soothing experience.
2. Cochin
Cochin is a cosmopolitan city that showcases the influence of various cultures, such as Arab, Portuguese, Dutch, British and Chinese. You can visit the Fort Kochi area, which has many historical and architectural attractions, such as the Chinese Fishing Nets, the St. Francis Church, the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue. You can also enjoy shopping, dining and nightlife options in Cochin.
3. Alleppey
The Alleppey backwaters make up an ideal place to relax in God’s own country. You can spend a day lazily cruising through quiet canals lined with coconut trees and sun-soaked hamlets while sampling traditional Keralan cuisine onboard a houseboat. It will give you a glimpse of the beauty and uniqueness of Kerala.
4. Kovalam
This beach town offers stunning views of the blue waters meeting the horizon. Sunbathe on the golden sands while overlooking the lighthouse, and watch the stunning sunset from Samudra Beach. You can shop for exquisitely handcrafted souvenirs, experience Ayurvedic massages and indulge in delicious seafood.
5. Periyar
Experience the natural attractions of Kerala at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, among the finest tiger reserves in India. Roam through lush green forests and spot an array of impressive wildlife, including elephants, sambar deer, langurs and over 200 species of birds.
6. Athirapally Falls
Witness the raw power and grace of the 80 feet high Athirapally Falls surrounded by thick greenery. The cascading waters carve through the rocky terrain creating mist-filled cavities and deep pools. You can choose between easy treks or a boat ride up close to experience the roar of the falls.
Conclusion
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