The Very Best and Worst time to Visit Kerala - When to Go and What to See
Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is a land of unparalleled natural beauty, rich culture, and serenity. Nestled on the southwestern coast of India, this tropical paradise has been a favourite destination for travellers from across the globe. In this comprehensive guide, we'll unravel the best and worst times to visit Kerala, introduce you to the major places of interest, and provide essential information about connectivity. So, pack your bags, and let's embark on a journey to discover the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Kerala.
The Very Best and Worst time to Visit Kerala - When to Go and What to See
Kerala is a state known for its lush greenery, serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. To fully savor the essence of this stunning destination, it's important to choose the right time for your visit based on your interests and preferences.
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Best Time to Visit Kerala
October to March - The Peak Season
Weather: Pleasant with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C.
Activities: Ideal for beach lovers, backwater cruises, and
exploring cultural festivals.
The period from October to March is considered the best time
to visit Kerala. The weather during these months is pleasant, and you can enjoy
the state's numerous attractions to the fullest. Whether it's lounging on the
beaches of Kovalam, exploring the backwaters of Alleppey, or indulging in the
state's rich culture, this is the perfect time for a Kerala getaway. The state
also celebrates various festivals during this season, such as Onam and
Christmas, adding to the cultural experience.
June to September - The Monsoon Season
Weather: Rainy and humid with lush green landscapes.
Activities:
Ideal for nature enthusiasts, Ayurvedic treatments, and off-season travelers.
The monsoon season in Kerala, from June to September, brings
heavy rainfall, transforming the region into a lush green paradise. While
outdoor activities may be limited during this time, it's ideal for nature
enthusiasts who can witness Kerala's flora and fauna at its best. Ayurvedic
treatments are also popular during the monsoon, and you can enjoy discounts on
accommodations.
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Worst Time to Visit Kerala
April to May - The Hot and Humid Season
Weather: Hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 35°C.
Activities: Not suitable for outdoor activities; good
for budget travelers.
The period from April to May in Kerala can be quite hot and
humid. Outdoor activities may not be enjoyable during this season due to the
high temperatures. However, if you're on a budget and can endure the heat, you
may find great deals on accommodations.
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Major Places of Interest
Munnar - The Tea Gardens of Kerala
Overview: Munnar is a
picturesque hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations, misty
mountains, and cool climate.
Major Attractions:
- Tea
Gardens: Visit tea estates and learn about the tea-making process at
places like Tata Tea Museum.
- Eravikulam
National Park: Explore the park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr
and a variety of wildlife.
- Anamudi
Peak: Trek to the highest peak in South India for breathtaking views.
Alleppey (Alappuzha) - The Venice of the East
Overview: Alleppey, often
referred to as Alappuzha, is famous for its serene backwaters, houseboats, and
lush paddy fields.
Major Attractions:
- Backwater
Cruises: Enjoy a houseboat cruise through the enchanting backwaters,
including the Vembanad Lake.
- Nehru
Trophy Snake Boat Race: Witness this exciting annual event showcasing
traditional snake boat racing.
- Marari
Beach: Relax on the pristine Marari Beach, away from the hustle and
bustle.
Kochi (Cochin) - Historical Harbor City
Overview: Kochi, also
known as Cochin, is a historic port city renowned for its cultural diversity
and beautiful waterfront.
Major Attractions:
- Fort
Kochi: Explore the charming colonial-era Fort Kochi with its Dutch,
Portuguese, and British influences.
- Chinese
Fishing Nets: Watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action along
the coast.
- Kochi-Muziris
Biennale: Experience contemporary art at this international art
exhibition held every two years.
Periyar National Park - Wildlife Wonderland
Overview: Periyar National
Park is a biodiversity hotspot known for its rich flora and fauna, including
elephants and tigers.
Major Attractions:
- Boat
Safaris: Take a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife,
especially elephants, on the banks.
- Nature
Walks: Explore the park's lush trails and engage in guided nature
walks.
- Bamboo
Rafting: Enjoy an adventurous bamboo rafting experience in the park.
Kovalam - Beach Bliss
Overview: Kovalam is a
beach town with golden sands and clear waters, offering a perfect coastal
escape.
Major Attractions:
- Lighthouse
Beach: Visit the iconic lighthouse and relax on the lively Lighthouse
Beach.
- Hawa
Beach: Stroll along the scenic Hawa Beach, also known as Eve's Beach.
- Vizhinjam
Marine Aquarium: Explore marine life at this aquarium with a variety
of species.
Wayanad - Enchanting Hills
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Overview: Wayanad is a
hill district known for its pristine forests, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Major Attractions:
- Soochipara
Waterfalls: Visit these picturesque waterfalls and enjoy a refreshing
swim.
- Chembra
Peak: Trek to Chembra Peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, for panoramic
views.
- Edakkal
Caves: Explore the historic Edakkal Caves with ancient rock
engravings.
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Connectivity
Kerala is well-connected through various modes of
transportation:
- Air:
Kerala has four international airports, with Cochin International Airport
and Trivandrum International Airport being the major ones.
- Rail:
The state has a comprehensive railway network with major stations like
Ernakulam Junction, Trivandrum Central, and Calicut Railway Station.
- Roadways:
Kerala has an extensive road network, and you can reach the state by bus
or hire a taxi from neighboring cities.
Kerala is a land of enchantment, where nature and culture
coexist harmoniously. Whether you visit during the peak season to savor the
vibrant festivals or choose the monsoon season for a tranquil retreat, Kerala
has something to offer every traveler.
Understanding the best and worst times to visit, along with
exploring the major places of interest and connectivity options, will help you
plan an unforgettable journey to this heavenly destination. So, pack your bags,
embrace the serenity, and get ready to explore the natural beauty of
"God's Own Country."
Official
Kerala Tourism Website
Lonely Planet's Kerala Travel Guide
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