Kerala is a long, narrow state where the Western Ghats meet the Arabian Sea. The landscape shifts quickly from misty tea estates to black-sand beaches, and between the two lie the slow-moving canals of the backwaters. Travel here is less about rushing from monument to monument and more about settling into a rhythm of massages, boat rides and long meals.
Choosing where to stay depends on the kind of holiday you want. The south offers a combination of beach, hill and water in a relatively small area, while the north is wilder, cooler and less built for tourism. Most visitors split their time between a coastal resort in the south and a quieter hill station, or choose one region to explore deeply.
There are no homes in Kerala on Bookalizer yet.
A series of small, crescent-shaped beaches in the south of the state. It is a popular place for sunbathing, swimming and watching the sunset over the Arabian Sea.
A large protected area in the hills of central Kerala. Visitors can see elephants and other wildlife from boat rides on Periyar Lake or from the park's viewpoints.
A network of slow-moving canals, lakes and lagoons that stretch through the southern part of the state. The area is best experienced from a houseboat or a small local boat.
A large, powerful waterfall in the hills near Thrissur. It is one of the most visited natural attractions in the state, especially during and after the monsoon.
A dense, old-growth rainforest in the Western Ghats. It is a protected area known for its biodiversity and quiet, unspoiled trails.
A large, ruined fortification on a headland in the far north of Kerala. It offers wide views over the sea and is a popular spot for photography.
A hill station in the Western Ghats, famous for its rolling tea plantations and cool climate. It is a common stop for travellers seeking a break from the heat of the coast.
Suitable for travellers who want a beach holiday with easy access to restaurants, spas and nightlife. It is the most established coastal resort area in southern Kerala.
The main hub for backwater houseboat stays. It suits those who want a slow-paced holiday centred on water, with day trips to nearby villages and canals.
A hill station ideal for those seeking cooler weather, tea estate walks and a quieter atmosphere. It is less developed than the coast but offers a different kind of relaxation.
A historic port city that serves as a cultural and logistical base. It suits travellers who want to combine urban exploration, food and day trips with shorter stays in the hills or backwaters.
The best time to visit Kerala is from October to March, when the weather is dry and pleasant. This period coincides with the end of the monsoon, leaving the landscape lush and green while making outdoor activities like beach visits and houseboat trips more comfortable. The summer months of April to June are hot, while the monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rain that can disrupt travel plans but offers lower prices and a dramatic, green landscape.
Kerala is well connected by road and rail. Trains are a comfortable and scenic way to move between major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode. For more remote areas like Munnar or Thekkady, hiring a private car with a driver is often the most convenient option. Local buses are affordable and extensive, but can be crowded and slow. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available in most towns for shorter distances.
Kerala cuisine is distinct, with a heavy reliance on rice, coconut and fresh seafood. Meals are often served as a 'sadya', a traditional feast on a banana leaf that includes multiple curries, sambar and payasam. Non-vegetarian dishes are common and widely accepted. Coconut is used in almost every form, from oil to milk, giving the food a rich, distinct flavour. Seafood is a staple along the coast and in the backwaters.
Yes, Kerala is considered one of the safest states in India. Incidents of harassment or cheating are rare, and locals are generally polite and helpful. Standard precautions for any major tourist destination still apply.
Kovalam or Alappuzha are the most popular choices. Kovalam offers a beach resort experience, while Alappuzha is better for backwater houseboats. Many visitors split their stay between the two.
A minimum of five to seven days is recommended to see the state properly. This allows time for a coastal stay, a hill station visit and a backwater experience without rushing.
Yes, trains and buses connect the major towns well. However, for remote areas like Munnar or Thekkady, a private driver is often more convenient and time-efficient than public transport.
Light, breathable clothing is essential. Bring comfortable walking shoes for temple visits and nature walks, and a light rain jacket if travelling during the monsoon. Modest clothing is recommended for temple visits.