What is the Best time to Visit Kerala?
September to March is the best time to visit Kerala for every traveler, when comfortable temperatures typically range from 20°C to 32°C and the lower humidity makes it perfect for exploring the state.
This period is relatively dry compared to the monsoon months, so you’ll spend less time dodging rain and more time enjoying Kerala’s highlights.
Unpack the joys of sunny beach experiences, laid-back sightseeing tours in and around local attractions, and eccentric backwater cruises.
The peak summer season can be relatively hot and sticky, while the rainy months can be marked by regular showers that might hinder your out-of-door plans.
Weather in Kerala
Average Temperature (°C)
Average Precipitation (mm)
Climate averages (Kerala/Cochin): temperature (max/min) and rainfall chart.
Why timing matters for a Kerala trip?
Kerala is one of those rare places you can visit anytime, but the vibe changes completely depending on when you go. The season really dictates everything, from how the beaches look and whether you can go on a wildlife safari, to the experience of a houseboat cruise or an Ayurveda session.
Why it matters: Timing your trip right is the secret to dodging heavy monsoons, avoiding the biggest crowds, and saving money. It’s the best way to make sure you’re seeing Kerala when it’s truly at its best.
Best time to visit Kerala (by season)
Winter (October to March) → Peak Season
This is the best season to visit Kerala for most travelers.
Weather
- Temperature: 18°C to 30°C
- Pleasant days, cooler nights
- Low humidity and minimal rainfall
Crowd levels
- High, especially December and January
Costs
- Higher hotel prices and flight fares
Best experiences
- Backwater houseboat cruises in Alleppey
- Beach holidays in Varkala and Kovalam
- Hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad
- Wildlife safaris in Thekkady and Periyar
Pros
- Best weather for sightseeing
- Ideal for first-time visitors
- Great for families and international travelers
Cons
- Peak-season pricing
- Popular places can feel crowded
Quick tip: Book accommodations at least 6–8 weeks in advance during Christmas and New Year.
Summer (April to May) → Shoulder Season
Summer is hot but manageable in certain parts of Kerala.
Weather
- Temperature: 25°C to 35°C
- Hot and humid in coastal areas
- Cooler in hill stations
Crowd levels
- Moderate
Costs
- Slightly lower than winter
Best experiences
- Hill stations like Munnar, Vagamon, and Wayanad
- Waterfalls (early May)
- Off-season deals on resorts
Pros
- Fewer tourists
- Better hotel discounts
Cons
- Heat can be uncomfortable in cities and beaches
Here’s the catch: sightseeing is best done early morning or late evening.
Monsoon (June to September) → Off Season
Monsoon is the most debated season in Kerala travel.
Weather
- Heavy rainfall
- Lush greenery everywhere
- Occasional travel disruptions
Crowd levels
- Very low
Costs
- Lowest prices of the year
Best experiences
- Ayurveda and wellness retreats
- Rainy-season photography
- Waterfalls at full flow
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Authentic, peaceful Kerala experience
Cons
- Limited outdoor activities
- Houseboats and beaches may be restricted
Why this matters: monsoon is the best time for Ayurveda treatment in Kerala, but not ideal for sightseeing.
Best time to plan a Kerala trip (by month)
January – February
- Best month to visit Kerala for weather
- Ideal for beaches, backwaters, and sightseeing
March
- Still pleasant, slightly warmer
- Fewer crowds than peak winter
April
- Start of summer
- Best for hill stations
May
- Hot, but good discounts
- Pre-monsoon showers begin
June – July
- Southwest monsoon
- Best for Ayurveda treatments
August
- Heavy rain, but cultural highlight: Onam festival
September
- Rainfall reduces
- Landscapes are lush and green
October
- Post-monsoon freshness
- One of the best months to visit Kerala
November – December
- Perfect weather
- Peak tourist season begins
When to Visit Kerala: A Guide for Every Type of Traveler
Perfect time to visit Kerala for honeymoon
October to March is ideal.
- Romantic houseboat stays
- Beach resorts with perfect weather
- Scenic hill stations
Avoid monsoon if outdoor activities matter.
Ideal Season to visit Kerala for family trips
November to February works best.
- Comfortable weather for kids and seniors
- Safe sightseeing conditions
- Festival vibes during December
Best time to visit Kerala for budget travelers
June to September offers the lowest prices.
- Up to 40% off on hotels
- Fewer crowds
- Ideal for slow travel
Ideal season to visit Kerala for Ayurveda & wellness
Monsoon (June to September) is considered the best.
- High humidity enhances treatment effectiveness
- Authentic Ayurvedic therapies
- Quiet retreat atmosphere
Best Months to visit Kerala for festivals
- August: Onam
- September: Snake boat races
- April: Vishu (Kerala New Year)
Worst time to visit Kerala
There is no absolute worst time, but July and early August can be challenging for regular tourists due to:
- Heavy rainfall
- Possible flooding in some regions
- Limited outdoor activities
If you dislike rain or have a tight itinerary, avoid peak monsoon weeks.
Essential Kerala
Frequently Asked Questions
Which month is ideal for a Kerala trip?
January and February are ideal months to visit Kerala. The weather is pleasant, rainfall is minimal, and all major attractions, including beaches, backwaters, and hill stations, are easily accessible.
Is monsoon a good time to visit Kerala?
Yes, monsoon is good for Ayurveda, wellness retreats, and budget travel. However, it is not ideal for sightseeing, beaches, or wildlife activities due to heavy rainfall and occasional travel disruptions.
What is the cheapest time to visit Kerala?
June to September is the cheapest time to visit Kerala. Hotels and resorts offer significant discounts, flights are cheaper, and tourist crowds are minimal.
When is Kerala best for sightseeing and beaches?
October to March is the best time for sightseeing and beach activities in Kerala. The weather is dry, comfortable, and suitable for outdoor exploration.
Is summer a bad time to visit Kerala?
Summer is not bad if you focus on hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad. Coastal areas can be hot, but summer offers fewer crowds and better deals.
Conclusion
The best time to visit Kerala depends on your travel goals.
For perfect weather, visit between October and March. For Ayurveda and budget travel, monsoon months are ideal.
Choose the season that matches your expectations.