Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a major port city on the south-west coast of India. It is known for its diverse and rich history, stunning beaches, delicious local cuisine, vibrant shopping scene, and beautiful religious sites. It's a city that beautifully blends modernity with tradition.

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula. It's part of the district of Ernakulam, which is a major tourist destination in India. /n The city is known for its stunning backwaters, beautiful beaches and architectural marvels. The architecture of Kochi tells the tale of the many foreign influences in the city, with buildings that have Portuguese, Dutch and British elements. The city also has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its music, dance and visual arts. /n Kochi is also a food lover's paradise, with a wide variety of cuisines available. The city's seafood is a must-try. The city is also known for its traditional spice markets, which are a treat for the senses. The city is also home to several religious sites, including the Santa Cruz Basilica and the St. Francis Church, which are worth a visit.

Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula.

Munnar is a town in the Western Ghats mountain range in India’s Kerala state. It's surrounded by rolling hills dotted with tea plantations established in the late 19th century. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.

Munnar hills are a popular tourist destination, known for their lush greenery, beautiful landscapes, and tea plantations. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers. /n The hills are covered with tea plantations, which give the area a unique, green beauty. The tea gardens are a must-visit, where you can learn about the tea-making process and even sample some of the local brew. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, with several endangered species found here. /n The Eravikulam National Park, located in the Munnar hills, is another major attraction. The park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The park also has several trekking routes for adventure enthusiasts. The Munnar hills are also a great place for bird watching, with several rare and exotic species found here.

Munnar hills are a popular tourist destination, known for their lush greenery, beautiful landscapes, and tea plantations.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Thekkady is the perfect example of nature's bounty with great scenic beauty and rich biodiversity.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the lush landscapes of Thekkady, Kerala, is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. It's home to a wide array of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds and reptiles. /n The sanctuary is spread over an area of 925 sq km, and its centerpiece is the beautiful Periyar Lake. The lake, formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam, offers boat rides that provide a unique opportunity to observe the wildlife at close quarters. The sanctuary also offers other activities like trekking, bamboo rafting, and jungle night patrols. /n The best time to visit the sanctuary is from October to June. It's not just the wildlife, but also the picturesque landscapes that make a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary a memorable experience.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a renowned wildlife reserve in Kerala, offering a rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes.

Periyar Lake is a beautiful artificial lake in Thekkady, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride.

Periyar Lake is a beautiful man-made lake located in the heart of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady, Kerala. The lake was formed when the Mullaperiyar Dam was constructed across the Periyar River. /n The lake is known for its scenic beauty and tranquility. It offers boat rides that provide a unique opportunity to observe the wildlife at close quarters. As you cruise along the lake, you can spot elephants, wild boars, and various species of birds on the shores. /n The lake is also a great place for photography, with the lush greenery, the crystal clear waters, and the wildlife providing perfect frames. A visit to the Periyar Lake is a must when you are in Thekkady.

Periyar Lake, located within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities.

A network of tranquil canals and lagoons, perfect for houseboat cruises and witnessing the local life of Kerala.

The backwaters of Alleppey, with its serene waterways, lush greenery, and traditional houseboats, offer a unique and relaxing experience. The backwaters are a network of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. /n A houseboat cruise on the backwaters offers a glimpse into the rural life of Kerala. You can see locals engaged in fishing, children going to school in small boats, and women doing their daily chores. The houseboats are well-equipped with modern amenities and offer a comfortable stay. The best time to visit the backwaters is during the cooler months from November to February.

Experience the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat.

A houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Kerala is a unique and tranquil experience.

A houseboat cruise in Alleppey offers a unique and unforgettable experience. These traditional houseboats, equipped with all modern amenities, take you on a journey through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey. /n As you cruise along, you can witness the rural life of Kerala - people engaged in their daily activities, lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and serene villages. You can also savor delicious local cuisine, prepared on the boat. The serene environment, the gentle lapping of water, and the beautiful landscape make it a perfect getaway.

Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey offers a unique experience of cruising through the tranquil backwaters.

Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasham Beach is a beach in Varkala. It's known for its beauty and the unique cliff that's found adjacent to the beach.

Varkala Beach is a popular tourist spot known for its beautiful sandy beaches, natural springs, and cliffs. The beach is also known for its seaside restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. /n The beach is lined with coconut palms, making it a picturesque spot for a relaxing vacation. The beach is also known for its natural springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. The cliffs of Varkala are another major attraction, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. /n The beach is also a great spot for adventure activities, with options for surfing and parasailing. The beach is also known for its sunset views, which are truly breathtaking. The beach is also home to several resorts and homestays, making it a comfortable place for a vacation. The beach is also known for its food, with several restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Varkala Beach is a popular tourist spot known for its beautiful sandy beaches, natural springs, and cliffs.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Kerala, India, often referred to as "God's Own Country". This tropical paradise offers a harmonious blend of cultural, historical, and natural wonders. Explore the serene backwaters on a traditional houseboat, walk through the aromatic spice plantations, and witness the majestic elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage by witnessing the Kathakali performances and visiting the ancient temples. Relax on the pristine beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, or rejuvenate with authentic Ayurvedic treatments. Indulge in the unique flavors of Kerala cuisine, featuring seafood and coconut-rich dishes. Kerala's warm hospitality and diverse landscapes make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Kochi

Start your adventure in Kerala with a visit to the vibrant city of Kochi. Explore the local markets and take in the bustling atmosphere.

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal. The cuisine here is known for its spicy and aromatic dishes, with a heavy emphasis on seafood and rice.

Head to the beach for some relaxation and water sports. The beaches in Kerala are known for their clean and serene environment.

Indulge in a seafood feast. Kerala is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.

Take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Exploring Kochi

Munnar hills

Embark on a trek to the beautiful Munnar hills. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful scenery of the Munnar hills.

Continue your trek and explore the lush tea plantations of Munnar.

Enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner with a variety of local dishes.

Relax and unwind after a day of trekking. Enjoy the cool climate and the peaceful surroundings.

Trekking in Munnar

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar Lake

Start your day with a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants and tigers.

Enjoy a lunch in the midst of nature. The food in Kerala is known for its unique flavours and spices.

Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Take a leisurely stroll around the town and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Wildlife Adventure in Thekkady

Backwaters of Alleppey

Houseboat Cruise

Head to the Backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy a Houseboat Cruise and experience the unique lifestyle of the locals.

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal on the houseboat. The cuisine here is known for its spicy and aromatic dishes.

Continue your Houseboat Cruise and explore the beautiful Backwaters of Alleppey.

Enjoy a seafood feast on the houseboat. Kerala is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.

Relax on the houseboat and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey

Varkala Beach

Visit the Varkala Beach. The beach is known for its natural beauty and serene environment.

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal. The cuisine here is known for its spicy and aromatic dishes.

Relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Relaxation at Varkala Beach

UTC+5.5

Kerala has four international airports: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, Cochin International Airport, Kozhikode International Airport, and Kannur International Airport. These airports connect Kerala with major cities in India and abroad.

Kerala has a well-connected railway network that links it with all major cities in India. Some of the major railway stations in Kerala are Thiruvananthapuram Central, Ernakulam Junction, and Kozhikode.

Kerala has a good network of roads and highways connecting all major cities and towns. Buses, both government and private, are the most common mode of road transport. There are also numerous taxi services available.

Auto rickshaws are a popular mode of transport for short distances within cities and towns in Kerala. They are three-wheeled vehicles that can accommodate up to three passengers.

Kerala is known for its beautiful backwaters, and boats and ferries are a common mode of transport in these areas. The state-run Kerala State Water Transport Department operates boat services in the backwaters.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Ola are available in major cities in Kerala. These services offer a convenient way to travel around the city, and can be booked using their respective mobile apps.

In some tourist areas, bicycles are available for rent. This is an eco-friendly way to explore the local sights at your own pace.

Walking is a great way to explore the local markets, beaches, and other attractions in Kerala. Many cities and towns in Kerala are pedestrian-friendly.

In some tourist areas and cities, motorcycles and scooters are available for rent. This provides a flexible and convenient way to explore at your own pace.

A traditional vegetarian feast of Kerala, Sadya is served on a banana leaf and includes a variety of dishes like sambar, avial, pachadi, and payasam. It is a must-try for its unique flavors and is especially popular during festivals.

Sadya

A staple breakfast dish in Kerala, Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake cooked with coconut shavings, which is served with Kadala curry, a spicy chickpea curry.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Appam is a type of pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It's often served with stew, a creamy, mildly spiced curry made with vegetables or meat.

Appam with Stew

A flavorful and aromatic dish, Malabar Biryani is a type of biryani from the Malabar region of Kerala. It is made with basmati rice, meat, and a blend of spices.

Malabar Biryani

A spicy and tangy dish, Kerala Prawn Curry is made with prawns cooked in a coconut milk gravy with a blend of spices. It's a must-try for seafood lovers.

Kerala Prawn Curry

Karimeen Pollichathu is a traditional Kerala dish where the Pearl Spot fish is marinated with spices, wrapped in a banana leaf, and then grilled or baked.

Karimeen Pollichathu

A popular non-vegetarian dish in Kerala, Beef Fry is made with beef pieces marinated in a mix of spices and then fried until crispy.

Beef Fry

A traditional dessert of Kerala, Palada Payasam is a sweet dish made with rice ada, milk, sugar, and ghee. It's often served during festivals and special occasions.

Palada Payasam

Known as Pazham Pori in Kerala, Banana Fritters are a popular snack made with ripe bananas coated in a flour batter and then deep-fried.

Banana Fritters

Toddy, also known as Kallu, is a local alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees. It's a traditional drink of Kerala and is often consumed with spicy dishes.

Toddy

Sambharam, also known as spiced buttermilk, is a refreshing drink made with yogurt, water, and spices. It's a popular summer drink in Kerala.

Sambharam

Chai is a popular Indian tea made with milk, tea leaves, and a blend of spices. It's a staple beverage in Kerala and is often served with snacks.

Chai

Republic Day

Dolyatra

Holi

Rama Navami

Mahavir Jayanti

Good Friday

Ramzan Id/Eid-ul-Fitar

Buddha Purnima/Vesak

Bakrid/Eid ul-Adha

Muharram/Ashura

Independence Day

Janmashtami

Milad un-Nabi/Id-e-Milad

Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti

Dussehra

Diwali/Deepavali

Guru Nanak Jayanti

Christmas

Lohri

Famous for its beaches, nightlife, and Portuguese architecture.

Known for its beaches, temples, and culture.

Chennai

The financial capital of India, known for its fast-paced life, beaches, and Bollywood.

Mumbai

Known for its rich history, cuisine, and pearls.

Hyderabad

The capital of India, known for its rich history and diverse culture.

Delhi

Jaipur

New Delhi

Kadhakali, a rare perfoming folk dance of Kerala state ,on the banks of Pampa river

South Indian women in white saree decorating floor with flowers to celebrate Onam

Elephant family in wild nature walking near the forest

Kerala has a tropical climate, so pack light cotton clothes.

The official language is Malayalam, but English is widely spoken and understood.

The currency used is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic treatments. Try to experience an Ayurvedic massage or treatment.

Kerala cuisine is rich in spices. Be prepared for spicy food, but you can always ask for less spicy options.

Always drink bottled water to avoid any health issues.

Public display of affection is not appreciated in Kerala, like most parts of India.

Kerala is a relatively safe place to travel, but it's always good to be cautious of your belongings.

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A tip of 10% is usually acceptable in restaurants.

Kerala has a good network of public transport including buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. You can also hire a car for a more comfortable journey.

Always respect local customs and traditions. Kerala has a rich cultural heritage.

Monsoon season in Kerala is from June to August and can be very heavy. If you're not a fan of rain, avoid these months.

The average temperature in Kerala ranges from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C).

Kerala has strict laws against littering. Always dispose of your waste properly.

Bargaining is common in local markets. Don't hesitate to negotiate the price.

Kerala is known for its tea and spice plantations. Buying these as souvenirs is a good idea.

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or private property.

Kerala has a strong tradition of arts and crafts. Try to attend a Kathakali performance or visit a local craft workshop.

Kerala is a major hub for yoga and meditation. Participating in a session can be a unique experience.

Kerala has a diverse wildlife. If you're interested, plan a visit to one of the many wildlife sanctuaries.

January is a pleasant month in Kerala, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

February sees a slight increase in temperature, making it a perfect time for beach activities and wildlife exploration.

March marks the beginning of summer in Kerala, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for water sports and exploring the local culture.

April is one of the hottest months in Kerala, but it's also the time for the famous Thrissur Pooram festival. Ensure to stay hydrated and wear light clothes.

May experiences pre-monsoon showers, bringing down the temperature a bit. It's a good time to visit hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.

June marks the onset of monsoon in Kerala, with temperatures dropping to a comfortable range. It's a great time to experience the lush green landscapes and Ayurvedic treatments.

July continues to experience monsoon showers, making the state look fresh and green. It's a good time for indoor activities and spa treatments.

August sees the end of monsoon season, with the state looking its greenest. It's also the time for the famous Onam festival.

September marks the beginning of post-monsoon season, with less rainfall and moderate temperatures. It's a good time for sightseeing and exploring the backwaters.

October experiences occasional rainfall and the weather starts to get warmer. It's a good time for beach activities and exploring the local markets.

November is a pleasant month with less rainfall and comfortable temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the wildlife.

December is a peak tourist season in Kerala, with pleasant weather and lots of festivities. It's a perfect time for sightseeing, beach activities, and exploring the local culture.

Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is a tropical paradise in India that experiences diverse weather conditions throughout the year. The state has three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.

Summer in Kerala starts from February and continues until May. During this period, temperatures can rise up to 95°F (35°C), with the coastal areas being particularly hot and humid. It's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. This is a great time to visit the hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad where the weather is cooler.

The monsoon season, from June to August and again from October to November, is characterized by heavy rainfall due to the southwest and northeast monsoons. The temperatures during this period range between 77°F (25°C) and 86°F (30°C). If you're planning to visit during the monsoon, be prepared for sudden downpours. Carry waterproof clothing and footwear. Despite the rain, this is a beautiful time to visit as the landscape is lush and green, and it's the perfect time for Ayurvedic treatments.

Winter, from December to January, is the most pleasant time to visit Kerala. The weather is cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 68°F (20°C) and 77°F (25°C). This is the best time for sightseeing, beach activities, and wildlife safaris. Carry light woolens as the evenings can get a bit chilly.

Regardless of the season, always carry an umbrella or raincoat when visiting Kerala as rain showers are quite common. Also, don't forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the tropical sun. 

Remember, Kerala's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful state!

Cookie consent

5-Day Adventure-Filled Itinerary for Couples in Kerala

About Kerala, India