Best time to visit Kerala in 2022
Kerala is one of the top tourist destinations in the country and is called God’s own country. Located in South India, Kerala is sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Kerala is exquisite. Though Kerala is a year-round destination, the winter season is considered to be the most ideal season to visit Kerala. The period from September to March is the best time to visit Kerala when the weather is at its most pleasant and it’s easy for travelers to explore the many attractions and tourist hubs like hill stations, backwaters, and beaches in Kerala.
Kerala has three seasons summer, winter, and monsoon, and the temperatures range from 28 C to 32 C on the plains and around 20 C in the hills. The best season to visit Kerala is winter, from September to March. The weather is pleasant, and humidity levels are low. You can explore backwaters, beaches, and hill stations comfortably. Monsoon (July to September) is considered, the off-season in Kerala unless you are looking for Ayurvedic Treatment.
ALSO SEE- Top 33 Best Places to Visit in Kerala for 2022 (with PHOTOS)
However, while September to March marks the most favorable time to explore this fascinating Indian state, it is not the only time you can choose to plan a trip. For instance, high altitude places like Munnar and Vagamon can be visited at any time of the year regardless of the season.
If you are someone who is planning to visit, you must be wondering when to visit Kerala?
The Best time to visit Kerala is from September and March in the winter season when Kerala has a comfortable climate and pleasant weather with less humidity in backwaters, hill stations, and beaches. The best season to visit Kerala for people who are looking for ayurvedic treatments is the Monsoon season from June to August. The best Season to visit the backwaters of Kerala is the months from August to May.
Kerala seasons are winter, summer, and monsoon.
Weather In Kerala
Take a look at this season-wise data to know which is the best season to visit Kerala and plan your holiday accordingly. The 3 seasons in Kerala are summer, winter, and monsoon.
Summer starts in April and ends in May, monsoon comes twice a year in Kerala from June to September and around October-November. Winter from September to march.
- Winter Season– September to March
- Summer season– April to May
- Monsoon Season from June to September
Kerala Summer Season (March-June)
The time period from March to May marks the summer season in Kerala. The data given below will tell you what this season is like and whether or not you should plan a trip to Kerala in summer.
Summer Season begins at the end of February and beginning of March. The weather in plains and coastal areas becomes warm and humid. and temperatures remain high throughout the day. There is no respite from the heat at night average temperature is quite high. The maximum temperature hovers around 35 C, while the minimum temperature stays around 28 C.
The weather in hill stations like Munnar is more pleasant with an average temperature of 25-26C. Occasional rain and thundershowers are common in hill stations.
Summer Weather in Kerala
The summer season from March to May bears hot and dry weather conditions. The temperature remains high throughout the day, even at night. To understand the situation better, just imagine not even being able to take a leisurely walk on the beaches on your trip to Kerala owing to the heat! Summer months in Kerala are hot and humid summer season in Kerala. Kerala weather in march, the temperature goes up to 38°C with high heat and humidity.
Summer Temperature in Kerala
The average temperature during this time ranges between 29°C to 38°C. Even in the evenings, the temperature remains a high 29°C. The state bears high temperatures during this time owing to its proximity to the ocean.
Places To Visit for your summer vacation
If you visit Kerala in the summer season, there are quite a number of places that you can explore. You can ride through the lush green and misty hills of Munnar, Ponmudi, or Vagamon since these are high altitude destinations and relatively cooler places than most parts of Kerala. Or you can also choose to go on a boat ride on the beautiful Periyar Lake in Thekkady.
Reasons To Visit in Summer
Despite having somewhat unfavorable weather for sightseeing and exploring, this offseason in Kerala receives a large influx of tourists drawn by the empty beaches and low hotel room prices. It’s the best time to visit Kerala & explore the natural beauty of this state in its most pristine form as you won’t find massive crowds of tourists at the popular hotspots. You may also get to witness colorful and exciting festival celebrations like Thrissur Pooram. Besides, it’s the best time to visit Kerala if you wish to enjoy seclusion, peace, and privacy at these magnificent hill stations, especially Munnar.
Summer Travel Tips for Kerala
- Pack light-colored and airy cotton clothing, preferably linens
- Don’t forget your sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses at home
- Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated
- Do not litter
Places to visit in the Summer
The summers are warm and humid. Many tourists visit Kerala in the off-season, and you can get great deals. The crowd levels are lower. It is the best time, to visit hill stations like Munnar, Thekkady, and Ponmudi.
Also see, Top 16 Best Places to Visit in Munnar
Monsoon Season in Kerala (June- August, and October – November).
There are two monsoon seasons in Kerala- one begins in June and is called the Southwest monsoon, and the other begins in October and is called the Northeast monsoon.
The southwest monsoon is the main rainy season in Kerala. The weather is humid, but the rains provide relief from the scorching heat. Kerala receives torrential rains. The rivers start gushing and are full of water as the surrounding areas become green. The maximum temperature during the monsoon is around 30 C, and the minimum temperature is around 20 C. It starts to recede around mid-August as the rainfall gradually reduces.
Monsoon season returns in October and is called Northeast monsoon. There is torrential rain accompanied by thunder and lightning and is called a retreating monsoon. Days remain hot and humid, with temperatures going up to 35 C during the day and 28 C at night.
ALSO SEE – Offseason in Kerala
June to August marks the monsoon season in Kerala. We have highlighted below all that this season offers and what you should expect if you choose to visit Kerala in the monsoon season. Monsoon season is suitable for Ayurveda with rains intermittently
Monsoon Weather in Kerala
Monsoon in Kerala is characterized by lush green foliage and high humidity. You’ll be met with frequent yet refreshing showers in Kerala during this time. If you wish to witness the splendor of rain in Kerala and do not mind the humidity, you can visit during this season.
The ideal time to visit Kerala is when the weather is moist & cool. One of the major reasons why tourists visit Kerala is to have the Kerala massage and ayurvedic treatment. Hence the monsoon season is the best season to visit Kerala.
Monsoon Temperature in Kerala
The average temperature during the monsoon season in this Indian state ranges between 29°C to 35°C. It sometimes further goes down a couple more degrees in cases when it rains heavily at night.
Places To Visit for Monsoon
You can visit places like Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Kollam, and Trivandrum are considered as best places to visit in Kerala during the rainy season as these are considered to be the top tourist hotspots for Ayurvedic treatments as well as Ayurvedic Spa in Kerala.
Reasons To Visit Kerala during Monsoon
While there isn’t much to do in the monsoon season since most of the activities remain closed, it’s the best time to visit Kerala for those who wish to indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments at affordable rates. Also, it’s a good time to visit Kerala in its most beautiful state. There will be lush foliage in hill stations like Munnar and Vagamon, the otherwise dry and parched vegetation will come to life, the waterfalls will be cascading in full force, and the views of the rain-drenched backwaters will be more beautiful than ever!
While looking to save money on your Kerala Trip, Visit Kerala during the off-season from May to September. It’s the monsoon season in Kerala. All the hotels and homestays come up with discounts and offers during this time of the year.
Monsoon Travel Tips for Kerala
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat even if it’s not raining in real-time
- Pack an extra pair of clothes for each day
- Carry mosquito repellents and lotions
- Carry proper medications for fungal infections if your body cannot handle humidity
Places to visit in Monsoon
Monsoon is the best time for Kerala massages and Ayurvedic treatment. The moist and dust-free environment makes treatment more effective. Waterfalls are at their majestic best as they start brimming with water.
Winter Season in Kerala (November to February)
Temperatures start falling in late November as the northeast monsoon recedes. Temperatures in Kerala do not vary much, but winters are slightly cooler with lower humidity levels. The average temperature in winter is 28 C, and the minimum temperature is around 18 C.
In the hilly regions of Munnar and Thekkady maximum temperature is 25 C and the minimum temperature is 10 C. Evenings and mornings are cool with temperatures falling further at night.
The winter season in Kerala begins roughly in late September and goes on till February. It’s, without a doubt, the best time to visit Kerala. See what Kerala offers in winter and plan your trip accordingly. In winter the climate is cool and comfortable and the winter season from September to March is considered as the best time to visit Kerala for a holiday.
Winter Weather in Kerala
Kerala has cool and pleasant weather in the winter season. Even sunny and hot days will be accompanied by cool winds and a pleasing sea breeze. Specifically, December has the best weather in the winter season and is considered by many travelers to be the best season to visit Kerala.
Winter Temperature in Kerala
The average temperature ranges between 10°C to 25°C. While the temperature tends to rise a couple or more degrees on really sunny days, the weather remains pleasant and windy.
Places To Visit in Kerala during Winter
You can choose to visit any city in the whole state and expect to be greeted with soothing and blissful weather. From Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Kochi, Kumarakom, Vagamon, Kovalam, Varkala, to Wayanad, there are so many places to explore in Kerala in winter that it’ll be hard to pick just a few.
Reasons To Visit Kerala during Winter
It’s the most favorable time to engage in activities like water sports, sightseeing, riding houseboats on the backwaters, and much more. Tourists are greeted with lush green valleys, clear skies, and a chance to interact with wild animals in nature parks and marshes. A trip to Kerala in late December gives vacationers a chance to indulge in Christmas and New Year festivities that make this place all the more lively and cheerful every year! It’s the right time to visit Kerala!
Winter Travel Tips to Kerala
- Book flight tickets and hotel rooms way in advance. Since it’s the peak season, it’ll be hard getting good deals at the last minute
- Try and visit offbeat places like Vagamon, Ponmudi, and Kumarakom for peace and seclusion
- Even though the monsoon season is over, carry an umbrella
- Pack light cotton clothes, hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Don’t forget your camera!
With so much to offer, Kerala is nothing less of a paradise for every type of traveler – newly married couples, families with kids, college gangs looking for adventure, or solo wanderers simply wishing to relax. Whether you seek peace and tranquility amidst the untouched reserves of nature or indulge in once-in-a-lifetime experiences like houseboat rides and Ayurvedic Spa, your trip to Kerala will surely be a memorable one!
Places to visit in Winter
The weather is ideal for sightseeing and the peak tourist season. You can try out water sports, explore backwaters in a houseboat, or just explore the state. There is so much to see in Kerala, just take your pick. Some popular tourist destinations are Munnar, Thekkady, Kochi, Kovalam, and Vagamon. Kerala looks picturesque in winter, with lush green valleys and clear blue skies. Go on a jungle safari in the various wildlife sanctuaries to spot wildlife and birds, or soak in the sights and sounds of the forest.
Weather In Kerala
Winter Season
The Winter season in Kerala starts in late November and lasts till February the weather is pleasant. It is the best time to visit Kerala and is the peak tourist season. Book your flights and hotels in advance for the best deals. If you are traveling to hill stations, you will need a light sweater and scarf.
Kerala weather in November
November temperature in Kerala is pleasant. The temperature in the afternoon is 31C and it goes down to down to 23C in the evening. There are occasional thunderstorms. Crowd levels may be higher because of the Diwali festival.
Places to visit in November
- Athirapally Waterfall is a must-visit for nature lovers. Enjoy a spectacular view from the top of the waterfall. It is one of the best waterfalls in the country.
- Plan a visit a Greenix Village to learn more about Kerala’s rich culture. You can see ancient artifacts in the museums, sculptures at the art galleries, and watch live production of martial arts.
- You can visit Trivandrum during the Alpasi festival. The deities are carried out from the famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple and are given a bath in the sea. The royal Travancore royal family still led the grand procession.
- The Kalpathi Ratholsavan Festival in the Palakkad district is fascinating and is dedicated to Lord Viswanatha. A massive chariot carries the deities.
Kerala weather in December
Temperature in December in Kerala is pleasant, with the average temperature hovering around 27C and maximum temperatures may touch 31 C. December is the peak tourist season, and prices are high. Kerala has a large Christian population, and the state has a festive atmosphere during Christmas.
Places to visit in December
- Cochin is must visit in December. You will enjoy the colorful Cochin Carnival held for ten days in the second half of the month, with bike races, beach football, floor drawings, fire display, and swimming competitions. It ends with the grand possession of the year with decorated elephants, music bands, and people dressed in fancy costumes.
- Alleppey is a popular destination in December. The waters are serene, you can soak up the beauty of the backwaters. It is the ideal weather to try kayaking. You can visit the ten-day Mullackal Chiraq is a fun event.
- Kasaragod district has a ten-day Theyyam festival in December.
Kerala weather in January
January Temperature in Kerala is cold but warm in day. The average temperature in January is 28C, with the maximum temperature going up to 32 C and the minimum temperature hovering at 23 C. The crowd levels are lower at the end of January.
Places to visit in January
- Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala. It is a bustling metropolis with ancient temples, colonial architecture, and beaches. You can attend the many festivals held here, like the Vasantholsavam Flower Show, Swathi Sangeetholsavam Music Festival, and Nishagandhi Classical Music and Dance Festival.
- Sree Parthasarathy Temple in Adoor hosts the first temple festival of the year.
- Varkala is one of the best beaches in Kerala. Try out different water sports activities available here.
Kerala weather in February
February in Kerala is the last month of winter, summer gradually sets in, and temperature and humidity levels increase. The crowd levels are lower as the tourist season ends.
Places to visit in February
- Alleppey backwaters look spectacular in February, with slow-moving water surrounded by palm trees.
- Kuttikkol Thampuratty Bhagavathy temple for the K Kuttikkol Thampuratti Theyyam festival.
- Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala and is known for ancient temples, churches, and mosques. If you visit the Machattu Mamangam festival held in February, you can see a colorful procession of huge horse effigies offered to the deity.
Summer Season
The summer season officially begins at the end of February. The temperatures are high throughout the day and even at night. The average temperature in summer is 35 C. Hill stations provide a welcome respite from the oppressive heat. There may be sporadic rain and thunder in summer.
Kerala weather in March
Summer in Kerala begins in March, and the daytime temperature gradually increases. The average Kerala temperature is 29 C and ranges from 33 to 22C. Humidity level goes up, especially in coastal areas. We recommend packing light clothes in the summer and drinking water frequently and staying hydrated.
Places to visit in March
- Kollam is the fifth largest city in Kerala and is famous for its beaches and Ashutamudi Lake. Parippally Gajamela is an amazing temple festival with around 50 elephants.
- Munnar is a beautiful hill station. It is known for its rolling tea plantations.
- Munroe Island is the perfect place for cruises. The experience of sailing through coconut plantations and mangrove forests is hypnotic.
- Kottayam is beautiful, with vast stretches of paddy fields, rubber plantations, and spice fields. You can attend the Attuvela Mahotsavam a water carnival festival. A procession of canoes carries colossal temple replicas of the Elankavu Bhagavathy Temple.
Kerala weather in April
It is warm and humid in April, with temperatures ranging from 33 C to 25 C. with occasional rains. If you are traveling in the afternoon, remember to stay hydrated. It is the best time to head to the hill stations in Munnar or Wayanad.
Places to visit in April
- Thrissur’s largest temple and elephant festival the Thrissur Pooram is held in late April or May. It is a grand spectacle with elephant processions and fireworks.
- Thekkady is famous for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Pathanamthitta district is famous for Kadammanitta Patayani, featuring masked folk dancers, and is held at Kadammanitta Devi temple.
Kerala weather in May
The temperature decreases slightly in May with monsoon just around the corner. Kerala May temperatures are high with an average temperature touching 29 C. The average temperature drops to 25 C in the evenings and is ideal to enjoy an evening stroll. Humidity levels increase and thunderstorms are common.
Places to visit in May
- Thrissur district host the Kannambra Vela festival for the summer temple festival.
Monsoon Season
The southwest monsoon begins at the end of June and lasts till August. Even though it is humid, the cool breeze coming from the southwest brings comfort after the hot summer. South-west monsoon is characterized by torrential rains. The rivers start brimming with water and the entire region gets covered by green carpet. The second monsoon begins in October and is called the northeast monsoon. The days remain hot and humid even with heavy rains. Carry an umbrella or raincoat and pack light cotton and an extra set of clothing. Wrap your electronics in plastic bags.
Kerala weather in June
June marks the beginning of the monsoon in Kerala. The temperature ranges from 30 C during the day and 24 C at night. June is the wettest month and can rain for 26 days in the month. You should bring waterproof clothing if you are coming to Kerala in June.
Places to eat in June
- Trivandrum holds the Sree Neelakantasivan Aaradhanya Music Festival for Carnatic music is dedicated to Saint Neelakanta.
- Njangattiri Bhagavathi temple at Palakkad district host a ceremonial feeding temple ceremony that is worth seeing.
- Aanayoottu at Vadakkumnathan temple in Thrissur district has a similar elephant feeding ritual ceremony.
Kerala weather in July
July is a wet month and receives moderately hard on most days. It usually rains in the afternoon and evening, and the morning tends to be dry. The average temperature is around 27 C.
Places to eat in July
- Alappuzha district hosts the famous Champakkulam Boat Race, the first snake boat race of the season.
- Parabrahma Temple in Ochira hosts the Ochira Kali, a mock fight that commemorates a historic battle.
- The dense forest Kannur district has 28 days festival called Kottiyoor Utsavam hosts festivals. Rituals on the first and last days attract the most spectators.
Kerala weather in August
August is warm and wet in Kerala. Day temperature can rise to 30 C, you need to stay hydrated. August is between the southwest and northeast monsoon, and there is a dip in the rains. We see moderate rain in August.
Places to eat in August
- Alappuzha host the Nehru Trophy, the biggest snake boat race of the year, held on the second Saturday of August.
- Several snake boat races take place during Onam, like the Uthradam Thirunal Pamba Boat Race, Payippad Boat Race, and Aranmula Boat Race.
- Thripunithura near Kochi sees the beginning of Onam celebrations Athachamayam marks features a magnificent parade.
- The main day of Onam involves scrumptious feasting. People decorate their homes with bright floral arrangements.
- Thrissur has Onam festival called Pulikkali. Men dress up as tigers with body paint and dance to the beat of drums through the streets.
Kerala weather in September
The temperature continues to hover around 27 C with a maximum temperature of 30 C. The temperature may seem warmer due to humidity levels. There is moderate rainfall in September.
Places to visit in September
- Parabrahma temple in Ochira hosts the Onam Kala Kettu Festival, it is a unique harvest thanksgiving festival that involves gigantic idols of bulls, made out of straw and cloth by locals, being pulled on wheels to temples.
- Palli Bhagavathi temple in Alleppey district has Neelamperoor Padayani festival with rare Padayani folk dance.
Kerala weather in October
The monsoon season comes to an end in October. We see moderate rainfall with thunderstorms, and there are occasional drizzles. The average temperature is around 27 C.
Places to visit in October
- Fort Palace Complex in Trivandrum hosts Navarathri Sangeetholsavam, a nine-day classical music festival during Navaratri.
- Panachikkadu Saraswati temple in the Kottayam district hosts Panachikkadu Festival is also part of the Navaratri celebrations in Kerala. Kids who begin their education and participate in a sacred ceremony.
- Sree Nagaraja Swami temple in Vettikode, in the Alleppey district, has a snake worshiping ceremony at the Avilvam festival.
- Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple in Alleppey district has another snake worshipping ceremony.
Kerala has 25 wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Kerala, and the state is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. It has been the center of trade for centuries, and the state has a rich history with beautiful monuments. The Dutch, Portugal, and British occupied Kerala, and you can see their influences on the architecture. The state has rich art and culture with various classical dances and martial arts. Kerala is known for delicious tangy cuisine and you should sample the delicious tangy cuisine as there is a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes using local produce. Kerala is famous for Ayurvedic Spas and treatment centers.
Kerala offers a unique experience and adventure. Plan your next trip to Kerala, and you will not be disappointed. Plan your trip during the monsoon experience and soak in the beauty of Kerala. Be prepared with waterproof luggage, an umbrella, raincoats, and shoes with a good grip. Summers are perfect for those who like an active holiday. Remember to stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothes, and carry a hat/cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Winter is considered the best time to visit Kerala, and crowd levels are higher. Remember to pack light woolens and mosquito repellent if you want to go camping.
You will be mesmerized by its varying landscape from rolling hills, serene and magical backwaters, pristine beaches, and lush greenery when you visit Kerala
All you have to do is plan your vacation around the best time to visit Kerala so that you do not miss out on any of the mind-blowing experiences that it has to offer! What are you still waiting for?
Start planning!
Source: irisholidays.com