Kerala Travel Guide | How to Plan Your Trip

Located on the south-western tip of India, Kerala is adorned with huge astonishing mountains, bird and wildlife sanctuaries, aromatic tea gardens, and impressive beaches. Kerala tours designed by Namaste India Trip add more fun and excitement to your Kerala tour. This beautiful southern state is known for its richness in nature’s beauty, culture, and tradition.

All our Kerala tour packages are inclusive of world-class facilities and that too at very affordable rates. Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum is believed to be the major attraction of this bustling modern city as the pilgrimage draws a massive footfall of travelers.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Kerala happens to be an ideal destination for honeymooners, nature lovers, family trips, etc. as the state is adorned with backwater streams, cascading beaches, and magnificent hill stations. However, this south Indian state is a year-round destination but planning your vacation in Kerala truly depends on your travel desire. For instance, if you are excited to explore the gorgeous hill stations then the summer season is the best time and if you are looking for Ayurvedic treatments and facilities then the monsoon is a great time.

Precisely, winter is the perfect time for any sort of travel plans you dream of in Kerala.

Kerala in Summer Season

Summer Season in Kerala starts in March and continues till May. The state remains hot and humid during this season with intermittent rainfall. During the daytime, the climate is hot but by the time it gets dark, the temperature goes down and this makes the evenings pleasant. Summer is the ideal time to enjoy several beach activities at Varkala, Kovalam, and Trivandrum, and also the sightseeing tour at Wayanad, Munnar, and Alleppey.

Additionally, planning a Kerala trip in summer offers you an opportunity to take part in the grand celebration of Elephant Festivals. This auspicious festival often takes place in the last week of April or in the first week of May.

Kerala in Monsoon Season

The monsoon season in Kerala starts in June and continues till September. The entire state especially the hilly areas receives a good amount of rainfall and this enhances the overall beauty of the state by making it more green and impressive. Also, monsoon is the most recommended time to go for Ayurvedic treatments and it is believed that this ancient Indian medical therapy works best in this season. It is believed that the skin pores are properly opened in the monsoon months i.e. between July and September.

Additionally, it is considered to be the perfect time to go for a city sightseeing tour in Kerala at different places including Wayanad, Kovalam, and Idukki. Do not forget to carry an umbrella or raincoat to save yourself from falling ill.

Kerala in Winter Season

The winter season in Kerala starts knocking at the door just after the monsoon gets over and October marks the onset of the winter season which continues till March. The temperature ranges at a normal level and this makes the areas witness pleasing and favorable climatic conditions. It is the ideal time to discover the wonders of this destination right from the glimmering beaches to the majestic hill stations. Thekkady, Alleppey, Varkala, Kottayam, and Kozhikode are some of the must-visit places in Kerala during the winter months.

How to Reach Kerala

Kerala is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in South India among solo travelers, honeymooners, families, and adventure enthusiasts. Flocked by people from all around the world, the state is nicely connected with several major cities of the nation including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, etc. as well as the destinations within the state itself. Keep scrolling down the pages to gather detailed information about how to reach Kerala most conveniently.

Reaching Kerala by Flight - Kerala itself houses 4 international airports namely Cochin International Airport, Trivandrum International Airport, Calicut International Airport, and Kannur International Airport and all these airports are well-connected with different cities and countries of the globe.

Reaching Kerala by Trains - The state is nicely connected with several major cities of India including the metropolitan cities of Kolkata, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai via well-networked rail routes. There are almost 200 railway stations connecting places within and outside Kerala. Depending upon your travel theme and budget, one can select super-fast or express trains to reach their preferred destination.

Reaching Kerala by Roadways - Roads in the state are in a well-maintained condition in comparison to other states of India. Other neighboring states of South India like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu are directly connected with Kerala via roadways. Buses, Autos, Taxis, and tourists are the major modes of transportation that one can opt for traveling within the cities.

Reaching Kerala by Waterways - Regular ships are attempting towards the gorgeous Lakshadweep Islands from Cochin. Traveling within the state via backwaters is not only a popular transportation mode but also an eminent attraction for travelers.

Suggested Post: Temples in Kerala

Places to Explore in Kerala

Serene winding backwaters, spice plantations, and lush green tea plantations are a few impressive features that make Kerala one of the most astonishing holiday destinations in India. Travelers who are looking for a place where they can unwind themselves in the salubrious climes, far away from the concrete jungle shall check out our meticulously crafted Kerala packages. Below enlisted is a beautifully compiled list of places to explore in Kerala.

Alleppey

One of the star attractions of South India, Alleppey is the most famous site to witness the glory of offbeat Kerala backwaters. The houseboat stays, backwaters trips and irresistible beauty attract a huge footfall of travelers. Lord Curzon depicted this place as Venice of the East is not at all a hyperbole. The majority of the wanderlusts plan their visit to Kerala to enjoy the Alleppey houseboat holiday. Exciting fishing villages, paddy fields, glimmering lakes decorated with water lilies, and serene chapels make Alleppey one of the must-visit destinations in Kerala.

Things to Do: Indulge in spiritualism, buy souvenirs for your loved ones, walk on the sandy beaches, and watch the awe-inspiring views of the sunset.

Best Time to Visit: Between September and mid-May.

Munnar

Munnar is a very popular hill station in India and one of the must-visit travel destinations in Kerala. The destination draws tourist attractions from all around the world with its cozy homestays, luxury hotels and resorts in Munnar, and cute bungalows. This old colonial city has its own charms and this makes it a cherished holiday destination in South India. Hence, if you are also a newly-wed couple or going to get married soon then check out the Kerala trip and plan your honeymoon accordingly.

Things to Do: Plantation resort, spot rarely found species at Eravikulam National Park, camping and trekking at Echo Point, and witnessing the soul-soothing views of sunrise and sunset.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Kumarakom

One of the loveliest tourist attractions in Kerala, Kumarakom is a small yet engrossing hamlet with alluring glories, exotic species of flora and fauna, and ever-pleasant weather. Kumarakom happens to be one of the most tranquil places in the state and on your holiday in Kumarakom, you get to see a blend of almost everything whether it is authentic and delectable Kerala cuisine, backwaters, cool and salubrious fresh air, the warm and friendly nature of Keralites, and fresh coconuts.

In comparison to Alleppey, the houseboat stay in Kumarakom offers more privacy and solitude, and even the resorts in the city are exceptionally impressive and serene.

Things to Do: Watch the rarely found species of bird at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Go for massage therapy and the aromas of Ayurveda treatment.

Best Time to Visit: Anytime between September and May

Wayanad

Popularly known as ‘The land of heavenly trails’, Wayanad is considered to be one of the greenest cities in Kerala. Bedecked with a serene atmosphere, godly beauty, and rich culture, this beautiful green city shows you a perfect infusion of natural as well as man-made heritage. Wayanad Tourism is quite popular for its richness in traditions, cultures, and tribal heritage and is home to some of the astonishing and lush green vegetation.

Things to Do: Enjoy boating and camping at Pookode Lake, enjoy bamboo rafting at Kuruva Island, and explore the surrounding hilly areas.

Best Time to Visit: If you are looking for an adventurous trip then plan your Wayanad visit during the monsoon months of July and August and if adventure is not your desire then October to May is the ideal time.

Thekkady

One of the most favorite places of wildlife enthusiasts in Kerala, Thekkady happens to be heaven hidden in thick dense forests and wild vegetation. If you are an animal lover then get to see several extinct species of animals including gaurs, Sambars, and lion-tailed macaques, and some commonly found animals like deer, Bison, Elephants, and the great Indian tigers. Thekkady is home to exotic wildlife and abundant natural beauty. Inarguably, Thekkady is one of the most favored Kerala tourist places, and boasting and wildlife observation are two of the most loved pastimes here.

Things to Do: Bamboo hiking and rafting in Thekkady, Jungle Night Patrol, Border Hiking, and boating.

Best Time to Visit: Between November and early May

Kovalam

One of the most favorite romantic destinations in Kerala, Kovalam Beach is very famous for its New Year celebrations, Ayurvedic treatments, deep strong massages, sunbathing fests, and multiple water sports activities like parasailing. Kovalam has a crescent-shaped coastline and is always found buzzing with activities. People from different cities the country and even foreign countries with vivid cultures and beliefs come together to enhance the glory of the place.

Things to Do: Go for a city sightseeing tour to discover the wonders of the place, indulge yourself in adventure sports activities, and spend a relaxing overnight stay in the houseboat.

Best Time to Visit: Plan your holiday in Kovalam throughout the year, especially between September and May.

Things to Do In Kerala

Kerala, the god’s own country is blessed with scenic and surreal views of nature and apart from these a traveler also gets to see the mind-boggling green landscape of the state. The serene backwaters, the gorgeous beaches, a mélange of delectable cuisines, and massage are not the only things that a traveler can enjoy in Kerala. This beautiful South Indian state has a lot to offer and if you are excited to know about the things to do in detail then keep scrolling down the pages.

Cruise the Backwaters on a Houseboat

A vacation in Kerala is never said complete without experiencing a houseboat stay. The diverse wildlife, palm-fringed landscape, clean and green villages, and the comfy houses that line the backwaters make houseboat cruise more enticing. Enjoying a houseboat cruise offers you the feel of a journey into a different world. This is surely a tranquil endeavor offering you a memorable and super romantic gateway. You also get to know about the rich cultural heritage of the destinations by booking a hotel or homestay surrounding the inland lagoons, waterways, and glimmering lakes.

Go For a Traditional Village Tour

The popular backwaters in Kerala are blessed with small villages inhabited by kind-hearted people following rich customs. Take a few hours to explore the beauty of the nearby villages where you get to interact with the locals and to know about the cultures and traditions they follow. Do not forget to walk around the paddy fields established on the outskirts of Kochi. You also get to visit the Kumbalanghi Village where the first model fishery is.

Enjoy an Ayurvedic Treatment

An ancient healing tradition, Ayurveda is believed to be almost 5,000 years old. Ayurveda treatment is a beautiful combination of natural medicines along with healthy eating and yoga. Due to the warm climate and the abundant supply of medicinal herbs and plants, Kerala is home to several Ayurvedic resorts and spas. Many people prefer Panchakarma, an Ayurvedic treatment to detoxify their bodies. It is a process in which the liver is purged and the body gets renewed.

Enroll Yourself in a Cooking Session

Kerala Cuisine is something that doesn’t require any sort of introduction and is renowned for its mouth-watering delicacies like coconuts and seafood. Precisely, feasting on South Indian delicacy is delightful but learning its recipe is more rewarding as this enhances your cooking skill and you can binge on these delicacies even if you are sitting in your home. If you are running out of time and cannot take classes for it then visit the local’s home and learn from them.

Catch a Kathakali Performance

A very unusual and ancient dance form of Kerala, Kathakali is a beautiful folk dance depicting the culture of the state. The performers carry special dresses for this dance form and the subtle dance movements and the elaborate dance costumes show a meaningful Hindu mythological story. Performing Kathakali is not an easy task as one needs to have proper training before performing it. They undergo intense training including hours-long eye exercises.

Explore the Tea Gardens and Spice Plantations

Tea production is believed to be the biggest business in Kerala and the state houses some of the most famous tea plantations in India. The moment you enter the region where tea gardens are established, you start witnessing the incredible aroma of tea leaves. Do not forget to enjoy a cup of tea prepared near the tea gardens.