Winter season between September to March is the best time to visit Kerala. This is the time when Kerala has a comfortable climate and pleasant weather with less humidity. If you wish to explore the enchanting lagoons, tranquil canals and spicy plantations of Kerala’s amazing cities, winter is the perfect time for you. The summer months in Kerala, like April and May, hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad are popular among guests. People who are looking for ayurvedic treatments prefer Monsoon season from June to August.
Essentially, the winter season between September to March is the best time to visit Kerala, to enjoy the beautiful surroundings in pleasant Kerala weather. The best time to visit backwaters in Kerala is from November through February.
Like Wizard of Oz’s Emerald City, Kerala sparkles with a thousand shades of green, paradise tinted with forest hues, it beckons travellers to its coasts, shores, hills, valleys and plains. Renowned for its delicious tea and sumptuous cuisine, it’s no surprise that Kerala tops every wayfarer’s bucket list. No matter the time of year, Kerala manages to entice, excite and enrich locals and foreigners alike. Those yearning for solitude, amidst nature’s symphony, need not look too far.
Peak Season – If you wish to explore the enchanting lagoons, tranquil canals and spicy plantations of Kerala’s amazing cities, October to February is the perfect time for you. Individuals travel far and wide for a slice of Kerala’s pie.
Shoulder Season – March to May
Low Season – June to September
Travel Seasons | Min/Max Temperature | Season |
October-February | 18-29°C | Cool and Pleasant |
March-May | 32-36°C | Hot and Humid |
June-September | 19-30°C | Heavy Rainfall |
Kerala In Winter (October-February)
Kerala Temperature: The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between 10°C and 25°C,
Weather: Kerala climate in winter is simply delightful. With a fall in Kerala temperature and humidity levels, one can bask in the green charm. The atmosphere is crisp and dry, while the air exudes a gentle chill. The days are cool and pleasant and the nights dip to frosty degrees. This is the best climate to visit Kerala in for exploration of its natural and cultural sights.
Significance: Kerala during winter is nothing short of dreamy and wonderous. The mist-coated plains of Alleppey, Munnar, Kumarakom and Wayanad are especially thrilling to tour. Celebrations of Christmas and New Year adorn the landscapes with ethereal beauty – fairy lights, stars and bobbles galore. Colonial churches and quaint markets pose as a time machine to ancient traditions!
Why you should visit now: In order to truly enjoy the spice plantations, rolling hills and meandering trails, the weather needs to be amicable. Winter enables comfortable traversing, without the hassles of sticky humidity, scorching sunshine or unforgiving rainfall. In-fact the wintry winds can be rejuvenating. This is a lovely time for wildlife safaris, boat cruises and tea factory visits.
Things to know before the visit: Peak tourist season begins in mid-December, leading to an influx of local and international travellers. Prices tend to incline towards the higher side, during this time. As such, it’s recommended that all tour and hotel bookings be done in advance. Don’t be alarmed by large crowds, long queues and slower service.
Tips: Kerala winters are not glacial; however, nights can drop down to chilly digits especially in elevated regions such as Munnar. Hence, it’s advisable to pack long pants, cardigans and sweaters. If you’re one to feel very cold, throw in some scarves and vests too. Moisturiser and lip balm are must have items for this time!
Kerala In Summer (March-May)
Temperature: Kerala temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 29°C and 40°C.
Weather: Kerala weather in summer varies from warm to scorching, depending upon the region and elevation. The coastal regions, in particular, get humid and sticky. In general, the days bask and bake in heat, while the evenings give way to cooler weather as mercury levels drop. This may not be the best season to visit Kerala in if you’re looking to get the maximum of the outdoors.
Significance: Picturesque hill stations such as Munnar, Thekkady, Vagamon and Ponmudi are great places to visit during the summer. One can escape the humidity and relish the alluring atmospheres of these jade mountains. Trekking, hiking, picnicking and biking are some of the exciting activities to partake in, amidst natural sceneries.
Why you should visit now: Apart from the magnified vision of soft blue skies and bold green surroundings, summer is rich in festivities and celebrations. In-fact the temples of Thrissur, Sabarimala, Attukal, Padmanabhaswamy, Vaikom and Chinakkathoor host their very own festivals – equipped with processions, parades, costume, song and dance.
Things to know before the visit: Since this season is not everyone’s cup of tea, it becomes a popular destination for budget travellers. The summer season witnesses a slash in hotel and tour prices, something one ought to optimise on! Lastly, take precautions, if you’re one to suffer from heat exhaustion and strokes.
Tips: Kerala summers can wear you down, which means you’ve got to be prepared. Pack light cotton clothing, comfortable footwear and SPF+ 30 Sunscreen. Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses! Stay hydrated through the day and consume frequent meals of small proportions.
Kerala In Monsoon (June-September)
Temperature: The air temperature during the season of monsoon fluctuates between 29°C and 35°C.
Weather: Kerala during monsoon experiences heavy rainfall and soaring levels of humidity. Although certain periods can get particularly uncomfortable, other periods witness pleasant weather. Nature glimmers with enchantment, painting the plains with bold beauty, infusing life into the plants and trees.
Significance: The monsoon Gods smile down upon the nation of Kerala with a multitude of offerings. From boat races, to boat cruises, spice and coffee tours, tree house accommodations, eco-tourism villages and ayurvedic spas, there’s much to engage in on the right kind of day. One merely has to wait for those in-between days of moderate rainfall to enjoy all of this and more!
Why you should visit now: The pitter patter season can only be described as artsy and romantic. From the light drizzle to the soft showers and heavy downpours, each of monsoon’s moods has its own charm. Kerala, already a green planet, becomes greener – if that’s possible. The jackfruit, mango and papaya trees sing in the rain! Wouldn’t you love to experience this natural phenomenon?
Things to know before the visit: The southwest monsoon winds create sufficient rain to cause varying degrees of flooding, especially in the months of June to August. Take this into consideration while planning your itineraries. On a lighter note, this season is ideal for budget travellers and those seeking tranquillity.
Tips: Gear up for the reign of the rain! You’ll need to pack an umbrella, windcheater, gumboots and mosquito repellent. Make sure you carry plastic bags for your electronic gadgets. Check Kerala weather forecast and sightseeing openings, before stepping out.