Kerala Travel Guide: 10 Powerful Reasons to Visit + Insider Tips
Kerala travel guide — discover the enchanting “God’s Own Country” with expert tips and must-see experiences. Start planning now!
Kerala travel guide begins here: nestled in India’s southwestern corner, the state of Kerala is a destination that blends lush green hills, serene backwaters, warm beaches and rich culture. Whether you’re planning a short break or a longer exploration, this guide will help you discover why Kerala deserves a place on your travel list.
Contents
Quick Facts at a Glance
- Location: Southwestern India, Malabar Coast
- Known as: “God’s Own Country”
- Best time to visit: ~ September to February
- Key regions: Hills (Munnar / Wayanad), Backwaters (Alleppey / Kumarakom), Coast (Kovalam / Varkala)
- Language: Malayalam (widely spoken), English common in tourist zones
- Entry point: Major airports at Kochi (Cochin) & Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
How to Reach
- By air: Fly into Cochin International Airport (Kochi) or Trivandrum International Airport (Thiruvananthapuram).
- By train/road: Kerala is connected via Indian Railways and national highways with neighbouring states; car/bus travel from major South Indian cities is feasible.
- Local travel: Use taxis, app-cabs, state buses, or hire a driver for hill/backwater zones for better flexibility.
Best Time to Visit
Kerala’s climate offers distinct seasons:
- Winter (Oct–Feb): Pleasant, ideal for tourist activities and backwater cruises.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Lush landscapes but some travel disruptions (roads, backwaters).
- Summer (Mar–Jun): Hot and humid, hill stations are more comfortable.
Choosing September to March gives you the most balanced experience.
Best Things to Do
Hills & Tea Plantations
Visit Munnar: famous tea gardens, misty valleys, and cool temperatures.
Backwaters
Cruise the serene backwaters in a houseboat in Alleppey or Kumarakom — an iconic Kerala experience.
Beaches & Coast
Relax at palm-fringed beaches like Kovalam or Varkala; ideal for sun, sea and unwinding.
Culture, Ayurveda & Wellness
Delve into Ayurveda treatments, yoga retreats, traditional arts and spice-laden cuisine. Kerala’s culture stands out for its wellness offerings and calm vibe.
Local Cuisine & Food to Try
- Sadhya: Traditional vegetarian banquet served on banana leaf.
- Seafood: Fresh fish, prawns, crab in Kerala style with coconut and spices.
- Appam & Stew: Fermented rice pancake with coconut stew.
Tip: If you’re sensitive to spice, ask for “less spicy” as many dishes come very hot.
Where to Stay
- Hill stations: Boutique resorts or tea-estate lodges in Munnar.
- Backwater zone: Houseboats or waterside resorts in Alleppey/Kumarakom.
- Coastal: Beach resorts in Kovalam/Varkala for sun & surf.
Choose based on your experience focus: nature/hills vs water vs beach.
Shopping & Souvenirs
- Spices: Pepper, cardamom, cinnamon grown locally.
- Handicrafts: Coconut-shell items, coir products, traditional Kerala arts.
- Tea: From Munnar estates — buy fresh tea with the estate label.
- Ayurveda oils & wellness goods: Good choice if heading for spa/back-to-nature stay.
Seasonal Travel Insights
- Winter (Oct–Feb): Peak tourist time — book early.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Romantic lushness, fewer crowds, best for waterfalls & greenery.
- Summer (Mar–Jun): Good deals but avoid hottest coastal zones midday.
- Events & festivals: Look out for local festival calendars for extra culture immersion.
Nearby Attractions
- Explore wilderness: Wayanad – hills, trekking, nature.
- Visit historic/coastal city: Kochi (Cochin) – a blend of colonial heritage.
- Eco-tourism zone: Thenmala – India’s first planned eco-tourism spot.
Travel Tips
- Dress modestly in religious or rural areas: cover shoulders & knees.
- Book houseboats and resorts ahead during peak season.
- Use local guides for hill or backwater areas for best insight.
- Carry mosquito repellent, sun protection.
- Respect local customs, especially in temples or traditional settings.
- Try to include at least one off-beat day — avoid doing only tourist hotspots.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time according to this Kerala travel guide is September to February, when weather is most comfortable.
2. How many days do I need in Kerala?
Typically 5–7 days let you cover one hill station + backwater + beach comfortably.
3. Is Kerala safe for solo travellers or women?
Yes — Kerala is considered relatively safe, but standard travel vigilance still applies.
4. What is unique about Kerala’s cuisine?
Rich use of coconut, spices, seafood and traditional meals like Sadhya.
5. How do I reach Kerala from Tirupati / Andhra Pradesh?
You can fly from nearby airport to Kochi/Trivandrum or take train/bus via major rail junctions then car from station.
6. Are houseboat stays expensive?
Costs vary by luxury level and season — book early for better deals, especially during peak season.
Kerala travel guide has now equipped you with a robust road-map to one of India’s most diverse and mesmerising destinations. From emerald hills to tranquil waters, from vibrant culture to pure relaxation — Kerala invites you to experience it. Start planning your trip and let Kerala reward you with memories.
Useful Links
- Kerala Tourism – Official Guide
- Holidify – Kerala Travel Guide
- Lonely Planet – Guide to Kerala
- Ekera Tourism – Top Places in Kerala
- Tirthan Valley Travel Guide
Author
Author: Prayanamam
