Nestled in the southwestern coast of India, Kerala is one of the most beautiful states to explore and famous for many things. With the perfect mix of golden sand beaches, paddy fields, mesmerizing hill views, mist-covered forest trails, and a vibrant local culture, this tropical paradise has managed to become a popular destination amongst tourists from across the globe. The weather of Kerala compliments the beauty of this place and makes the experiences for the travelers even more magical. 

There are three major seasons which can be seen in Kerala throughout the year– Summers, Winters, and Monsoons. The summer months bring a pleasant and warmth in the atmosphere and lasts typically from March to May. Then comes the Monsoon season from June to September, which refreshes nature. Last but not the least, Kerala experiences Winters from October to February, which brings a break from the humidity in the atmosphere. 

However, the tropical climate in Kerala can be seen throughout the year because of its proximity to the Arabian Sea. But, because of the geographical diversity in the state you can notice visible variations in humidity as well as temperature according to the areas. The regions which are closer to the coast are warmer and more humid whereas the areas which are in the higher altitude gives a more cooler and temperate environment. 

Choosing the best time to visit Kerala depends on which weather conditions you personally prefer. If you want to see more greenery and refreshing nature, then monsoon is the best weather to choose. Whereas, if you wish a warmer coastal weather, then prefer visiting Kerala during the summer season.

Understanding the climate conditions of Kerala will help you plan your trip more clearly and will also allow you to plan activities available according to the state of the weather. 

Seasons in Kerala

There are majorly three seasons to experience in Kerala throughout the year:

SEASONS	TIMELINE	TEMPERATURE	RAINFALL
Summers	March- May	25°C to 35°C	Low to Moderate
Monsoons	June- September	23°C to 30°C	Heavy Rainfalls
Winters	October- February	20°C to 30°C	Low to Moderate

• Summers- The weather from the month of March to May is hot and humid in Kerala. This is the ideal time to visit if you are on a budget or wish for a great beach vacation. Along the coast, the weather is warmer. So if you are looking for cooler temperatures then head towards the hill stations. The hotels and resorts are extremely affordable during this season and flights are also available on discounted rates. 

• Monsoon- If you want to immerse yourself in nature and wish to rejuvenate yourself completely, then the time period between June to September is the best option to consider. The monsoon converts Kerala into a beautiful green land and a lush paradise. You can also witness the best ayurvedic practices during this time as your body will be more receptive to the healing therapies. 

• Winters- The weather is most pleasant during the months of October to February and is considered the best time period for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Visiting Kerala during the winter season will offer you a relaxing experience and help you take a break from your hectic schedule. The temperature is extremely comfortable, humidity is low, and the environment is perfect for exploring several beaches, mountain ranges, or cultural sites. 

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Ideally, the best time to visit Kerala and explore the entire state is during the winter season. The comfortable climate conditions and pleasant weather will offer you the best opportunities to participate in the outdoor activities in Kerala. Explore the scenic backwaters of Alleppey, Munnar’s tea plantations, and beautiful golden beaches of Varkala and Kovalam. 

During the winter season, the people of Kerala celebrate several festivals as well. You can connect with the culture and traditions of the state and have a complete immersive experience of the celebrations. If you are on a budget constraint, then the best time to visit Kerala is during the summer season. During these off-season months, you will be able to book hotels, resorts, flights, and plan activities at a discounted rate. The areas near to the coast are more humid and warm as compared to the hilly areas. 

If you are a traveler seeking rejuvenation and healing, then monsoon is the best time to visit Kerala. The healing therapies and spas are most effective during the months of June to September. The mesmerizing landscapes drenched with the rainfall, lush paradise, mist-covered mountains, and spectacular waterfalls makes Kerala a haven for nature lovers. The best time to visit this tropical paradise depends on personal preferences. According to the requirements of your budget, lifestyle, and living habits, choose the season to visit Kerala wisely. 

Activities in Kerala According to the Season

You can indulge in different activities according to the season in Kerala. Plan your trip keeping the weather conditions in mind and be a part of the season appropriate activities in this tropical state. 

Winter Season Activities

Winters are ideally the best season to visit Kerala and partake in the different activities. 

• Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Alleppey and Kumarakom backwaters.
• Join the wildlife safari in Periyar National Park, Wayanad, and Eravikulam National Park. 
• You can participate in beach sports and adventurous activities like snorkeling, surfing, swimming, etc.
• Join the guided treks in Munnar, Thekkady, and Wayanad to get a closer view of different species of flora and fauna.
• Attend the local festivals of Kerala and explore their cultural as well as historical sites to connect with your surroundings. 

Summer Season Activities

Summers are the off-season months where the hotel rates and the commute is cheaper than the peak seasons. 

• There is a lesser crowd of tourists., so you will be able to explore the famous sites without a hassle. 
• Hill stations are the best escape for people who wish for a cooler temperature.
• Participate in beach sports like parasailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, etc as the weather is the most appropriate for it.
• Enjoy the local delights of Kerala like jackfruits, mangoes, and pineapples 
• Take guided treks to the breathtaking mountain trails which lead to cascading waterfalls like Meenmutty and Athirapally. 
• Stay in the houseboats to experience the best views of the backwaters.

Monsoon Season Activities

Monsoons are majorly famous in Kerala for healing therapies and Ayurveda practices.

• Enjoy the healing therapies and spas which include ayurvedic treatments 
• Rejuvenate yourself in the refreshing and lush green environment
• Enjoy the local monsoon delicacies of Kerala and participate in the cultural activities
• Join the guided treks and hikes to the mist-covered forest trails which lead to Kerala’s breathtaking waterfalls
• Take the scenic trains through the Western Ghats and have the best experience of your life

Tourist Seasons to Visit Kerala

The different tourist seasons in Kerala are categorized according to the weather conditions in the state.

• High Season (October to March)- The time period between the months of October to March are considered as the high season for tourists as the state has the most pleasant weather during this time. The days are sunny and long and appropriate for exploring this tropical paradise. However, you will notice that the accommodations, paid activities, meal charges, and airfare are at their highest as well. If you wish to have some meaningful connections or want to explore the state in the best conditions, then this is the perfect time for you. 

• Shoulder Season (April to May and September to mid-October)- The weather during these months can also be ideal for tourists visiting Kerala. The temperature near the coastal areas are warmer and sunnier but the weather in the hilly areas are cool and extremely pleasant. If you are on a budget and want to balance your exploration under a financial limit, then these months will work in favour of your choices. The tourist crowd is also comparatively low, which makes the popular places more accessible. 

• Low Season (June, July)- The monsoon season is the low season in Kerala in terms of tourism. It is the most affordable time to visit the tropical paradise, especially if you want to avoid a heavy crowd of tourists. Experience the natural beauty of Kerala’s lush greenery and enjoy the authentic ayurvedic treatments. These months are appropriate for people who wish to rejuvenate themselves and want to indulge in wellness retreats or a peaceful time in Kerala. 

Best time for Backwater Tour

Winters are the perfect time if you wish to explore the mesmerizing backwaters of Kerala, especially Alleppey and Kumarakom. The time period from the month of October to March has the coolest and most relaxing temperature in Kerala, making it ideal for enjoying the outdoor activities. The pleasant weather of Kerala during winters allows you to appreciate its beauty, especially of the stunning backwaters. 

The backwater tours between October to March are full of life and have the peak amount of tourists. The warm hospitality and lively views of different flora and fauna makes the houseboat experience worth every penny during this peak season. The bookings in these houseboats especially in Alleppey and Kumarakom fill up really quickly so make sure to book in advance of your trip to avoid inconveniences. 

Best time for Wildlife Safari

For wildlife safari in Kerala, again the winter season from October to March are the best months to visit. The weather is the most comfortable during these months and appropriate for enjoying the wildlife safari in this tropical paradise. You have a high chance of spotting wild animals especially elephants in Periyar National Park during the winter season. 

During the time period of October to March the tourism is at its peak, especially in the national parks. The number of visitors in Periyar national park increases up to 30% in the winter season of Kerala. In Wayanad as well, you have high chances of spotting different wild animals as they are active in the cooler environment. Sanctuaries like Parambikulam tiger reserve and the Silent Valley national park are also at their peak tourism in the month of October to March. The rainfall is lower than the usuals and the temperature is cooler, which makes animals more visible. This time period is ideal if you are a nature enthusiast and want the best wildlife experience of your life. 

Best time for Ayurvedic Treatments

The time between mid-July and mid-August is considered as the final month of the Malayalam calendar, which is known as Karkidakam. This spiritual time is referred as the Ramayana month and is considered as the period when the Ramayana is recited in every home and temple in Kerala. This month is closely tied to Ayurveda because of the practice of Karkidaka Chikitsa, which you can understand with the help of locals. The monsoon season is at its peak during this time, which makes it the best time for complete body rejuvenation and detoxification. 

The monsoons allow you to open up your body’s pores and help it in becoming more responsive to the Ayurvedic therapies and healing treatments like Panchakarma. This spiritual month is the perfect time for balancing your body’s doshas and enhancing your immunity system. If you wish to detox yourself and participate in the ayurvedic therapies as well as healing treatments in Kerala, then the monsoon season is the perfect option to consider. 

Kerala Travel Budget- How Seasonality Affects Costs

Depending on your visit, your travel cost in Kerala can differ. It depends mostly on which weather conditions you are choosing to visit in. If you are traveling to Kerala in the months from October to March, then you will be experiencing peak tourism in Kerala. The accommodation charges, airfare, and transportation facilities within the state are at its peak during these months and rise up to 25-40% than the usuals. If you are planning to visit during the off-seasons, which is from June to September, then you will find much affordable staying options and transportation charges compared to the winters. Because of the heavy rainfalls, the tourist crowd is less, which makes the popular sites of Kerala more accessible to explore.