Going to Kerala for the First Time? Here’s What You Should Know

Planning your first trip to Kerala can be an interesting experience for you, but it can surely raise many questions in your mind regarding the time of your visit, the number of days to be spent, the places to visit, and how to reach the places you want to visit. This is because Kerala trip packages have many things to offer you, ranging from beaches to hill stations and wildlife.

It is important to remember that Kerala is not a destination that needs to be rushed through. Each area has its own experience, and travel time may differ. Some planning could allow you to have more fun without doing everything all the time.

From selecting the appropriate season to being aware of local traditions, there are a few basics that one should be aware of before heading out. This guide highlights the important information that first-time travelers need to know before visiting Kerala.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

With Kerala trip packages, the state can be visited throughout much of the year, but the best time depends on what you want to experience.

The months between October and February are ideal for sightseeing trips. The weather can be pleasant enough for people to go for visits to the beaches, hill stations, cities, and other backwater areas.

The period from March to May is relatively warm, especially on the coasts. However, hill stations like Munnar can provide a cooler option.

The monsoon season, which usually runs from June to September, brings heavy rainfall. Although this is not ideal for all tourist plans, it makes Kerala look green and can be appealing for those who prefer calm tourism during the monsoons.

How Many Days Do You Need

The recommended duration of a first visit to Kerala could be anywhere between 5 and 7 days. However, you should plan the duration based on the places that you wish to visit.

With Munnar Alleppey tour packages, one can plan a short visit to places like Kochi, Munnar, and Alleppey. If you have more time, then you can add on places like Thekkady and Varkala to your itinerary.

Avoid trying to visit every major destination during a short holiday. Traveling from one place to another requires time, especially when the traffic is high or when you are visiting hilly destinations.

A slower itinerary often gives you more time to enjoy each destination.

Places to Visit in Kerala

Kerala has many options for those visiting for the first time. The places you choose will be based on the kind of vacation you would like to have.

Munnar

Munnar is famous for tea gardens, verdant landscapes, and cool weather conditions. This place suits travelers who like nature and scenic landscapes.

Alleppey

Alleppey, which is sometimes referred to as Alappuzha, is famous for its backwaters. A houseboat stay available in Kerala houseboat packages can be a laid-back way of enjoying the waterways of Kerala along with the adjoining villages.

Kochi

Kochi offers a blend of history, culture, cuisine and urban life. The historic ambience of Fort Kochi makes it a famous attraction.

Thekkady

Thekkady is an ideal choice for anyone who likes forests, wild animals, and the outdoors. The Periyar area provides opportunities to explore the nature of Kerala.

Varkala

Varkala is famous for its scenic cliff views and beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. It can be included in the itinerary of someone who is interested in coastal experience destinations.

Transportation in Kerala

Kerala offers various modes of transportation, including trains, buses, cabs, and private cars. Trains may be good for travelling between major towns and cities. 

Trains can be useful for travelling between major towns and cities. However, they might not be practical in terms of connecting to hill stations or more remote places.

On the other hand, taxis and cars allow you the liberty to travel from one place to another without hassle, as compared to public transport. With a taxi or your own car, you also have the opportunity to stop at various sights along the way.

The local buses are usually cheaper, but they can make your trip longer. When making an itinerary, take into account the travel time, not only the distance between the two cities.

Understanding Kerala’s Weather

Climate of Kerala changes according to seasons and locations. The coast may be warm and humid, whereas hill stations like Munnar can be much cooler.

Rain may also affect your trip plans, especially when it is monsoon season. Rain may lead to delays or may not facilitate some activities.

Check the weather before booking your tour packages Kerala, and allow for some degree of flexibility in your plans. This is particularly helpful when you have extensive road trips or outdoor sightseeing on your itinerary.

Food You Should Try

Food is an integral part of experiencing Kerala, which you can explore with South India tour packages. The local cuisine has a range of flavors, ingredients, and ways of cooking.

Some dishes worth trying include:

• Appam with stew
• Puttu and kadala curry
• Kerala-style fish curry
• Dosa and idli
• Malabar biryani
• Sadya
• Payasam

If spicy food is something that does not suit your taste, inform the waiters while ordering the food. You can often choose milder dishes.

Also, it is necessary to choose places that are clean and well-maintained for meals, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.

Understanding Local Culture

Cultural and religious traditions are deeply rooted in Kerala. One needs to be courteous while visiting temples and other such religious sites.

At some places, there might be certain dress code requirements and prohibitions for taking photographs. It is advisable to be aware of such guidelines before visiting those places.

It is considered courteous to seek permission before taking pictures of local people, rituals, or private property. Learning some basic Malayalam words could also be a good way of interacting with locals, despite English being extensively used by tourists in many regions.

Packing Essentials for Kerala

Your packing list should be based on your chosen destinations and seasons.

The items to take into consideration while booking Kerala trip packages include:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight clothing
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses and a hat
• A reusable water bottle
• Personal medicines
• Mosquito repellent
• A small umbrella or rain jacket
• A light jacket for hill stations
• Modest clothing for religious places

During monsoons, taking waterproof bags along with you can also keep your gadgets and other valuables safe.

What to Book Before Your Trip

Some parts of your trip to Kerala need to be prepared beforehand, especially during peak travel seasons

Consider booking your:

• Accommodation
• Main transportation
• Houseboat, if required
• Airport or railway station transfers
• Popular activities
• Guided tours, where needed

However, it is not compulsory to plan every aspect of your trip. Leaving some spare time gives you the chance to wander around and make any changes if needed, depending on the weather conditions or other traveling situations.

Conclusion

A first trip to Kerala becomes much simpler once you know the fundamentals before your visit. Before booking your Kerala trip packages, select an appropriate season, have sufficient days planned for your visit, and do not include too many places in a limited vacation period.

Consider transportation, the varying weather, trying out local cuisine, and adhering to Kerala’s traditions. Making arrangements for your important journey in advance is another way of getting peace of mind.

In case you need assistance in planning your first vacation in Kerala, you can trust our experts at Kerala Tour Packages. We can assist you in picking out places to visit, places to stay, modes of transportation, and activities according to your travel plans. Browse our list of services right away through our website.