Kerala Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Before You Book That Ticket to “Kerala”

Nestled along India’s southwestern coast, Kerala is a land of lush green hills, serene backwaters, spice-scented markets, rolling tea plantations, and palm-lined beaches. From hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries to temples, churches, and unique cultural arts, it’s a destination that marries nature and tradition in a way few places can.

But to truly enjoy Kerala, it helps to know how to travel smart here — from the best places to visit and what to eat, to common scams, safety insights, and local quirks that make Kerala unforgettable.

Why Visit Kerala?

Kerala is ideal for travelers who:

• Love nature and landscapes — from tea hills to calm backwaters
  
• Want unique experiences like houseboat stays and spice tours
  
• Are food lovers — especially fans of coastal and spice-rich cuisine
  
• Seek culture-infused travel, not just sightseeing
  
• Want a relaxing yet deeply immersive destination
  

It’s a place that rewards slow travel — controlled chaos on the outside, deep calm inside.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Kerala has a tropical climate, and weather plays a big role in your travel experience. 🌤️

Ideal months:
October to February – Dry, pleasant weather perfect for sightseeing, backwaters, and hill stations.
March to May – Warmer builds up. Still good if you don’t mind heat.
Monsoon (June to September) – Famous for lush landscapes and Ayurvedic treatments, but heavy rains can disrupt journeys and cause road closures.

Top Destinations You Must Visit

🛶 1. Houseboat Backwaters — Alleppey & Kumarakom

One of Kerala’s signature experiences is cruising the serene backwaters on a traditional kerala houseboat (kettuvallam). These floating cottages drift along narrow canals lined with swaying palms and charming villages. Interiors can range from simple to luxurious, and meals of local Kerala cuisine are included on board.

⛔ Scam Tip: Always book houseboats through reputable operators or official tourism desks — bait-and-switch offers with poor boats or hidden charges are common.

🌿 2. Munnar — Tea Gardens & Mist-covered Hills

Munnar’s rolling hills are blanketed with emerald tea estates and dotted with waterfalls and cool mountain air. Visitors can trek, explore tea museum tours, or just relax with panoramic views.

Best for: nature lovers, couples, photography buffs, trekking fans.

🌄 3. Wayanad — Wilderness & Trails

Wayanad blends wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, tribal history, and spice plantations. It’s perfect for forest hikes, safari adventures, and cultural exploration.

Must see: Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Chembra Peak.

🏝 4. Kovalam & Varkala — Beach Vibes by the Sea

Kerala’s coastline has several beautiful stretches:

• Kovalam – classic beach with lighthouse views and seaside cafes
  
• Varkala – cliffside beaches with laid-back ambience and yoga retreats
  

Both spots offer relaxing seaside vibes and great sunset views.

🐘 5. Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)

For wildlife lovers, Thekkady’s dense jungles and Periyar Lake offer boat safaris where you can spot elephants, deer, gaur, and a variety of birds.

🏙 6. Kochi — Cultural and Colonial Melting Pot

Kochi mixes Dutch, Portuguese, and British heritage with modern energy. Fort Kochi’s spice markets, Chinese fishing nets, and seaside promenade make it a highlight for travellers. The city also features art galleries, cafés, and historic churches.

🌊 7. Thiruvananthapuram — Capital Charm

The state capital has a calming mix of cultural attractions, temples, palaces, and beaches (like Shanghumugham), plus new food street hubs offering local cuisine in a hygienic, well-organized setting.

Kerala Food Guide: What to Eat & Where

Kerala’s cuisine bursts with spices, fresh seafood, coconut, and rice. Whether you eat street food or sit down at traditional restaurants, here’s what to try:

🍽️ Must-Try Kerala Dishes

• Appam & Stew: Pancake-like rice crepe with mild stew — perfect for breakfast.
  
• Puttu & Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cylinders with spicy chickpea curry.
  
• Malabar Biryani: Rich biryani with fragrant rice and spices.
  
• Seafood Dishes: Kerala fish curry, crab roast, prawns — fresh from the coast.
  
• Sadya: Traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaf especially during festivals.

🥥 Drinks & Desserts

• Toddy (Kallu): Naturally fermented palm drink (local specialty).
  
• Payasam: Sweet rice pudding often served after big meals.
  
• Filter Coffee: Strong South Indian style brew.
  

💡 Pro Tip: Kerala has launched food street hubs with regulated vendors and stricter hygiene standards so you can enjoy authentic tastes without worrying about cleanliness.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Kerala is known as one of the safer Indian states for tourists, but smart travel habits still help you enjoy it to the fullest.

🛡️ Safety Overview

• Violent crime against tourists is rare. Even solo female travelers report feeling safe and supported by locals.
  
• Pickpocketing and scams are minor but can happen in crowded markets or busy transport hubs.
  
• Traffic conditions vary — be cautious when walking at night in less-lit areas.

Common Scams & How to Avoid Them

No place is completely scam-proof, and Kerala has its share of pitfalls — mostly tourist-targeted, not serious crime.

📍 Key Scams to Watch Out For

Unlicensed Ayurvedic Massage and Spa Scams — Some centers sell fake treatments or overcharge tourists. Always look for official certification.

Houseboat Misrepresentation & Hidden Charges — Bait-and-switch houseboats or extra charges for meals/AC not disclosed upfront.

Fake Guides at Attractions — Some “guides” have no credentials and take visitors to shops for commissions. Book guides through official tourism offices.

Online Hotel Booking Scams — Fraudulent online booking links or QR payment requests can dupe tourists. Always confirm bookings with the hotel directly through verified contacts.

Unlicensed Taxis or Auto Rickshaws — Drivers might quote inflated fares or claim the meter is broken. Agree on a price upfront or use app-based services.

Currency Exchange Risks — Avoid unofficial vendors with poor rates or fake notes; use ATMs in banks.

👣 Traveler Tip: If someone offers unsolicited help, politely decline and go through your hotel or official counter for support.

Getting Around Kerala

🚗 Transport Options

• Taxis & Auto Rickshaws: Widely available — negotiate fares or use Uber/Ola in cities.
  
• Public Buses: Cheapest way to travel intercity but can be crowded.
  
• Trains: Comfortable and scenic; book ahead via official Indian Railways.
  
• Car Rental with Driver: Best if you want flexibility to explore hills, beaches, and backwaters at your own pace.
  

Kerala’s roads are excellent around cities but can twist and wind in hill areas like Munnar or Wayanad, so factor in travel time.

Cultural Etiquette & Local Norms

Kerala’s culture is warm, traditional, and respectful — but knowing local etiquette makes a big difference:

🙏 Dress Code & Respect

• Dress modestly when visiting temples or churches. Covered shoulders and legs are appreciated.
  
• Remove shoes at temple entrances.
  
• Respect local customs during festivals and ceremonies.

Practical Tips Before You Go

• Carry bottled water — tap water might not be safe for visitors.
  
• Pack mosquito repellent — especially in coastal and backwater regions.
  
• Use sunscreen in tropical sun.
  
• Download offline maps — network service may vary in remote areas.
  
• Keep an emergency contact list including hotel, local police, and embassy.

What Makes Kerala Special

Kerala is more than sights — it’s an experience that weaves nature, culture, flavours, and peace together. Its backwaters move slowly, its food is deeply aromatic, and its people are friendly and curious. Whether it’s a houseboat dawn, a misty hill view, or a spice market at sunset, Kerala will leave you richer in memory.

Final Thoughts: Should You Visit Kerala?

Absolutely, yes — especially if you want a beautiful and varied travel experience that’s not just about ticking boxes. With its combination of beaches, backwaters, spice trails, wildlife and culture, Kerala offers a complete journey, whether you’re on honeymoon, a family getaway, or a solo explorer.

Just stay alert to scams, respect local customs, and embrace the beauty of slow travel.