Best time to visit in Kerala
Find out the best time to visit Kerala and plan your trip with ease. Learn about the ideal seasons, weather conditions, and travel experiences that make your journey to Kerala truly memorable.
Best time to visit
Season-wise guidance, activities, festivals, and practical tips.
OCT–MAR (Peak Season)
Coast: 23–32°C; hills (Munnar/Wayanad): 12–24°C with colder nights in Dec–Jan; humidity 60–75%.
Weather & Temperature
Coast: 23–32°C; hills (Munnar/Wayanad): 12–24°C with colder nights in Dec–Jan; humidity 60–75%. Brief NE‑monsoon showers in Oct–Nov, then mostly dry, sunny days Dec–Mar; seas generally calm to moderate.
What to Expect
Clear skies, comfortable days and cool hill nights; top attractions fully operational; busiest period and higher prices around Christmas–New Year and long weekends; excellent wildlife visibility Jan–Mar.
Key Events & Festivals
- Cochin Carnival (Dec)
- International Film Festival of Kerala – Thiruvananthapuram (Dec)
- Attukal Pongala – Thiruvananthapuram (Feb/Mar)
- Theyyam season (Oct–Apr, North Kerala)
- Sabarimala pilgrimage season (Nov–Jan)
- Kerala Literature Festival – Kozhikode (Jan)
Recommended Activities
- Houseboat stay on Vembanad or Ashtamudi
- Beach hopping and beginner surfing at Kovalam/Varkala
- Tea‑estate walks and sunrise viewpoints (Top Station/Kolukkumalai)
- Wildlife safaris and bamboo rafting in Periyar
- Cycling through backwater villages
- Fort Kochi heritage walks and art galleries
Travel Tips
- Book flights, premium stays, and houseboats 6–10 weeks ahead; for Dec 20–Jan 5, book 8–12 weeks ahead.
- Carry a light layer for evenings in the hills; sea breeze can feel cool.
- Expect short showers in Oct–Nov—pack a compact rain jacket.
- Use SPF 30+, hat, and sunglasses; the sun is strong even in winter.
- Start early on ghat routes to avoid weekend traffic to hill stations.
