Best Time To Visit Kerala

Visit Kerala in February

February offers the best climate to visit Kerala for fun, frolic, and adventure. The maximum day temperature in Kerala during February is 32°C and minimum temperature is 23°C. Being a tropical state, Kerala receives around 26 mm of rainfall for 2-3 days and a total of 9 hours of sunshine. The average temperature of the sea is 28°C, enabling active participation in water sports activities such as surfing, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. You may feel the sticky and humid atmosphere around the coasts of Kerala, but the weather on hill-stations such as Munnar, Ponmudi and Wayanad is cool and pleasant. Therefore, pack according to the places you want to visit in Kerala.

If you seek an idyllic retreat in Kerala in February, head to the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom and stay on a houseboat or stay in Kollam to enjoy a luxurious Ayurvedic wellness treatment. February is also an excellent time to go jungle safari in Wayanad wildlife sanctuary or National Parks of Kerala such as Eravikulam National Park and Periyar National Park.

Kerala in February :Events and Festivals

• Adoor Gajamela – Taking place at the Parthasarathy Temple in Adoor, Kerala, Adoor Gajamela is a colourful elephant procession. As a part of the 10 day festival, this procession features ornamented elephants marching on beats of traditional drums, ushering a sense of euphoria.
• Andalur Kavu Theyyam – The Theyyam festival is called Kaliyattam having roots in the epic Ramayana. This festival falls in the Kumbham month according to the Malayalam calendar. A spectacular display of music, dance, theatrical performances, and sacred ritual are held, attracting thousands of devotees to the festival.
• Pariyanampetta Pooram – Taking place in Palakkad’s Pariyanampetta Bhagavathy Temple, Pariyanampetta Pooram is a seven-day event and attracts millions of devotees and spectators. An important ritual of this festival is to create colourful rangolis (images) of goddesses on the temple floors using organic coloured powders. Creating an atmosphere of vibrancy and zest, the festival also features shadow puppetry, elephant processions, and traditional music and dance.

Visit Kerala in March

The hot and humid weather starts to make its grip stronger in the month of March. The average temperature during day time fluctuates between 32°C to 33°C and the minimum is 24°C at night. There is 37 mm of rainfall in Kerala during March for 2 to 3 days and the sunshine remains for 9 to 10 hours. The sea temperature in Kerala rises up to 29°C. Even though the temperatures start to soar around the coastal areas, the weather is still pleasant in the backwaters and the hill stations. Therefore, planning a Kerala trip in March with a visit to Munnar, Alleppey, Thekkady and Wayanad is highly recommended.

Adventure enthusiasts can comfortably enjoy a myriad of land and water activities without worrying about the temperature. Tea plantation tours, river boating, and visiting cascading waterfalls are popular tourist activities to enjoy in Kerala. Additionally, there are traditional festivals and events to attend in March. More on that below:

Kerala in March: Events and Festivals

• Guruvayur Aanayottam – Held at the revered Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple in Thrissur, Guruvayur Aanayottam is a remarkable elephant race event. The first elephant to complete the seven rounds and cross the eastern gate is declared as the winner. This festival highlights Kerala’s rich history and religious heritage.
• Attukal Pongala – Celebrated at the Attukal Bhagavathi Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Attukal Pongala is one of the largest female gatherings in the world. Here thousands of female devotees gather together to offer Pongala, a sweet dish made of ice, jaggery, coconut in an earthen pot to the goddess Bhagavathy, also known as ‘Attukalamma’.

Visit Kerala in April

April is said to be the hottest month of Kerala with temperatures soaring to 34°C during the day and dropping to 25°C, accompanied by high levels of humidity. The sea temperature also rises to 30°C. Kerala receives an average of 107 mm of intermittent rainfall which cools off the heat for a bit. When the shorelines of Kerala are hot and humid, it is best to plan an escape to the hill stations of Kerala such as Munnar, Thekkady, Wayanad, Ponmudi and Vagamon. Here, revel in the mist-covered mountains, shimmering waterfalls, lush greenery and fragrant tea and spice plantations, or go for eco-tourism. Those who seek a peaceful retreat should spend their vacation cruising on the backwaters of Kerala. April falls in the shoulder season which is the peak time to visit Kerala to score deals and discounts on hotel stays and tourist activities.

Kerala in April: Events and Festivals

• Vishu – A harvest festival celebrated mid-April, Vishu symbolises the beginning of Malayalam New Year. Vishukkani is a significant ritual of this festival that includes arranging of auspicious items that one sees upon waking up in the morning. New clothes are worn symbolising prosperity and Vishu Sadhya, a traditional all-vegetarian feast is prepared.
• Arattupuzha Pooram – Hailed as “Mother of all Poorams”, this festival occurs at the Arattupuzha temple, where grand processions where idols of deities from neighbouring temples are displayed, colourful floats, elephant pageantry, traditional music, draws in millions of devotees and spectators. The traditional music elevates the festive fervours of this grand celebration,
• Malayattoor Perunnal – Celebrated amongst the Christian community, Malayattoor Perunnal is a festival of devotion, spirituality and brotherhood. It is held at St. Thomas Church on Malayattoor Hill in Ernakulam district and is attended by thousands of devotees. The festival greets the pilgrims with a feast of traditional Kerala dishes, souvenir shopping and handicrafts.

Visit Kerala in May

May is the last month of summer before the arrival of the rainy season in Kerala. The average maximum temperature of the day is 32°C and the minimum temperature is around 25°C. There are usually 9 to 10 days of precipitation, therefore keep an umbrella or a rain poncho ready. Due to high heat and humidity, it’s crucial to stay hydrated at all times. Hence, carry a reusable waterbottle and keep yourself cool. During daytime, it is advisable to explore indoor attractions in Kerala, such as Mattancherry Palace, Kashi Art Gallery, Kannan Devan Tea Museum, Great K. V. Kathakali Center etc. And for shopping, instead of exploring street markets, choose to visit swanky shopping malls such as LuLu International Mall. In the evenings, when the temperature cools down a bit, go for bamboo rafting or a houseboat ride to enjoy the backwaters of Kerala.

Kerala in May: Events and Festivals

• Thrissur Pooram – As the name suggests, this pooram festival takes place in Thrissur, and is one of the most significant annual events of the place. The festival is a grand visual spectacle of cultural extravaganza. The festival involves flag hoisting, processions of participating deities (idols) on elephants and parades. Visitors can also enjoy the Thrissur Pooram Exhibition.
• Edathua Perunnal – This annual feast and festival occurs at St. George church in Edathua. The key highlight of the festivals is that the statue of St. George is paraded around the church by the devotees. Along with religious ceremonies, cultural performances including music and dance also elevates the fervour of this celebration.
• Kannambra Vela – Taking place at Sree Kurumba Temple, Palakkad, Kannambra Vela is linked to the folklore of the harvest of jackfruits and mangoes. Also known as the Chakka Vela, the festival includes grand elephant pageantry. It can also be called a smaller version of Thrissur Pooram festival.

Visit Kerala in June

June marks the beginning of monsoon in Kerala with intermittent showers taking place on most days of the month. The maximum temperature during the day is 29°C while the minimum temperature hovers around 24°C. Kerala receives approximately 20 to 21 days of rainfall and five hours of sunshine on non-rainy days.

Monsoon is the best season to visit Kerala to score discounts on accommodations and activities, as many tourists avoid visiting due to heavy downpours. The intermittent rainfall makes it challenging for trekking and camping in the woods. However, you can still enjoy monsoon tourism in Kerala by visiting tea plantations, enjoying village tours, and watching gushing waterfalls replenished by the monsoon rain. Further, it is an ideal time to get exciting off-season discounts on luxury hotels and resort stays. Relish authentic and freshly prepared Kerala foods such as appam and curry, Malabar biryani and more. Those seeking rejuvenation, go for an effective Ayurvedic spa and wellness treatment.

Kerala in June: Events and Festivals

• Vaishaka Mahotsavam – Held at Kottiyoor Temple, Kannur, Vaishaka Mahotsavam is a 28-day festival taking place near River Bavali. The festival involves worship of the self-created lingam of Lord Shiva with the ritual involving pouring of ghee and coconut water by the devotees.
• Ochira Kali – Taking place at the Ochira Parabrahma Temple in Kollam, this festival involves the concept and idea of connecting with universal consciousness rather than focusing on ritualistic veneration. A playful and engaging combat is a part of the festival, pulling in thousands of devotees.

Visit Kerala in July

The pitter-patter season continues in July with high heat and humidity while the elevated destinations offer some relief. The highest temperature of the day in July is 28°C to 30°C while the lowest temperature is 23°C. There are a total of 20 to 22 days of intermittent rainfall in Kerala. Keep your Kerala trip itinerary flexible for any last-minute changes, as sudden rainfall may disrupt your travel plans. Despite heavy rainfall, you can watch cultural performances such as Kathakali, Mohinyattam and Theyyam. Watch a Kalariyapattu match and learn more about this ancient Indian martial art. While going on houseboat tours on the backwaters of Kerala, carry a mosquito-repellent spray with you and wear full-sleeved t-shirt/shirts along with pants. On non-rainy days, plan a trip to spice and tea plantations of Kerala.

Kerala in July: Events and Festivals

• Champakkulam Boat Race – Monsoon is the best season to visit Kerala to enjoy boat races. The most-awaited boat racing event in Kerala’s Alappuzha is the Champakkulam Boat Race, held on Pampa River, offering the perfect backdrop. The boat race features grand, long and narrow chundan vallams or the snake boats on which rowers displayed excellent synchronization to race against their competitors. The race draws in millions of spectators every year.

Visit Kerala in August

August is a good time to visit Kerala for budget travellers and those who want to avoid the tourist crowds. The weather is mostly hot and humid accompanied by rainfall. The temperature ranges between 28°C to 30°C during the day and slips down to 23°C at night. Keep your umbrellas and rain pochos ready, as Kerala receives about 18 days of rainfall consisting of brief spells of showers. August is an excellent time to visit Kerala to witness Onam celebrations, boat races, and other religious and cultural festivals. On non-rainy days, plan your trip to explore verdant tea plantations, rose gardens and famous viewpoints. The natural beauty of Kerala is in its full bloom, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts and photographers to capture this picturesque beauty.

Kerala in August: Events and Festivals

• Athachamayam – This festival occurs in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August/September). Dedicated to celebrating the victory of the King of Kochi, this festival displays all of Kerala folk arts. The procession includes adorned elephants, colourful floats, vibrant dance performances, creating a magnificent atmosphere.

Visit Kerala in September

September marks the last month of monsoon season in Kerala with rainy days declining to just 13. The temperature rises during the day and fluctuates between 30°C to 29°C, while the minimum temperature is around 22°C. Water sports and other beach activities which temporarily got suspended, start reopening. This is the last month in Kerala to take advantage of the off-season discounts in Kerala on accommodations, and tourist activities, before the peak season hits.

On your Kerala tour, explore the tea museum in Munnar, visit the Athirappally Falls, experience the awe-inspiring Jatayu Earth Centre in Kollam, and witness the rich culture and heritage of Kerala by watching cultural performances and Kalari martial arts. Those seeking an idyllic vacation, should opt for an Ayurvedic retreat and indulge in pampering wellness sessions.

Kerala in September: Events and Festivals

• Thiruvonam – Celebrated all over Kerala, Onam is a ten-day harvest festival dedicated to the homecoming of King Mahabali. Each day of the festival has its special significance that needs to be experienced. Floral decorations, boat races, buying new clothes and feasting, all are a huge part of Onam. Celebrated by everyone in Kerala, Onam sends out the message of unity and togetherness, reflecting the cultural ethos of Kerala.
• Feast of Holy Cross Shrine – From September 5th to 21st, the Feast of Holy Cross Shrine takes place annually. The festival involves lighting of massive beeswax candles by the devotees and attending the Holy Mass. A visually delightful procession also takes place along with religious and cultural engagements.

Visit Kerala in October

October commences the peak season/winter season in Kerala, making it the best season to visit Kerala. It is an immensely favourable time for sightseeing and shopping in Kerala. The average maximum temperature during the day time is 30°C while the minimum hovers between 22 to 23°C. In hilly areas of Kerala, such as Munnar, Vagamon, Wayanad and Ponmudi, the temperature drops to as low as 10 to 12°C. With clear sky, calm sea conditions and drier days, feel free to participate in water sports such as surfing, banana boat rides, paddle boarding, scuba diving and snorkelling. The lakes and lush coconut palms of Kerala creates an inviting ambiance, perfect for houseboat ride and cruises. October is also an ideal time to visit Kerala for exploring wildlife and birds in Eravikulam National Park, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Periyar National Park etc.

Kerala in October: Events and Festivals

• Navarathri Festival – Dedicated to worshipping the nine forms of goddess Durga, Navarathri in Kerala is celebrated with great fervour. The final three days of Navaratri, i.e. Ashtami, Navami, and Vijayadashami Goddess Saraswati is worshipped by the devotees. Students also offer jaggery, roasted rice and sugarcane.
• Koratty Muthy Feast – Celebrated in the second week of October, Koratty Muthy’s Feast is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The festival involves celebration of community spirit and unique traditions. An important offering made at the festival is that devotees offer Poovan bananas equivalent to their body weight to the church.
• Alpashi Utsavam – Held at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, the festival involves veneration of the pressing deity Anantha Padmanabhan (Lord Vishnu). A large temple procession takes place, led by the head of the Travancore Royal Family. The festival begins with a flag-hoisting ceremony along with beautiful rituals and cultural programs.

Visit Kerala in November

November is the peak time to visit Kerala with family, friends or on a romantic honeymoon. The average highest temperature in Kerala is around 28°C to 31°C, while the lowest temperature is 22°C. Experience the vibrant cities of Kerala such as Kochi and Kozikhode, exuding a blend of traditional and contemporary influences. Go hiking on the designated nature trails and soak in the panoramic views of Western Ghats from prominent viewpoints. Go beach hopping in Kerala and experience the spectacular palm-fringed trees, sparkling blue waters and clean beaches. Spend your time with a drink in your hand, lounging on a sun deck. November is also a good month to visit Kerala to appreciate its abundant flora and fauna, preserved and protected in its wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.

Kerala in November:Events and Festivals

• Mullakkal Chirappu – This is a 41-day festival that takes place in Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple in Alappuzha. Mullakkal Chirappu begins in November as per the Malayalam festive calendar and continues till December. The concluding days of the festivals are marked by grand processions, colourful dance performances and rituals that attract millions of devotees.
• Kalpathy Ratholsavam – Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Kalpathy Ratholsavam is a sacred temple festival celebrated by the Sree Viswanatha Swamy Temple in Kalpathi, Palakkad. The festival is celebrated by vibrant processions, adorning the temple with flowers and lights, and with music and dance performances.

Visit Kerala in December

December is a jubilant and festive time to visit Kerala, and it is also one of the best months to travel to Kerala for a honeymoon, family vacation or a solo trip. The average day time temperature during December is 31°C whereas the lowest mean temperature is around 20°C, offering the best climate to visit Kerala. Apart from village tourism, eco-tourism, wildlife excursions, forest trails, culinary delights, and experiencing the nuances of Kerala’s culture, there is plenty to discover in Kerala. From Christmas to New Year’s Eve and Cochin Carnival, December is a gala time to go to Kerala. However, make sure to do advance booking, as this is the peak tourist month and is a busy season.

Kerala in December:Events and Festivals

• Guruvayur Ekadasi – This festival falls on the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight, known as Ekadasi, and is held at the Shri Krishna Temple in Guruvayur, Thrissur. A special udayasthamana pooja (dawn to dusk veneration) takes place in the temple along with rituals and colourful processions.
• Cochin Carnival Festival – Celebrate the year end festivities and welcome the New Year at Fort Kochi’s Cochin Carnival Festival. The carnival is a riot of colours, sounds and sights all bubbling in one neighbourhood. It features a range of activities including beach motorbike racing, swimming, kayaking, etc. Attendees can also partake in competitions for painting, mehandi, kolam, rangoli, quizzes, and fun games. The evenings are filled with traditional music, dances, and performing arts.