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Travel guide

Best Time for a Kerala Tour

Kerala changes completely with the monsoon — both halves of the year have their fans.

By Mahesh Kumar R., naturalist Updated 2 min read

At a glance

Best
Sep – Mar
Peak
Dec – Jan
Hot
Apr – May (coast)
Monsoon
Jun – Aug
Festivals
Onam (Aug–Sep)
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Quick answer

The best time for a Kerala tour is September to March, when rain eases, hill stations are green and pleasant, and backwaters and beaches are at their best; December–January is peak season. April–May is hot on the coast but fine in Munnar and Wayanad. June–August is the southwest monsoon: very green, wet and cheaper, with some closures.

By region

RegionBest months
Munnar & hillsSep – May
Alleppey backwatersAug – Mar
Beaches (Kovalam)Oct – Mar
WayanadOct – May
WildlifeDry months, Jan – May

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Frequently asked questions

Is monsoon a bad time for Kerala?

Not bad — just different: lush, dramatic and cheaper, with some closures and rain-bound afternoons.

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