Kerala travel tips: Essential advice for visiting India's green paradise
When you think of Kerala, a lush, coastal state in southern India known for its backwaters, ayurveda, and relaxed pace of life. Also known as God's Own Country, it’s where rice fields meet coconut palms, and houseboats glide silently through canals lined with vendors selling fresh jackfruit. Unlike the crowded temples of North India, Kerala feels like a quiet retreat—where the air smells like jasmine and the only rush is the rhythm of the monsoon. This isn’t just another Indian state. It’s a place where culture isn’t performed for tourists—it’s lived. From the spice markets of Kochi to the misty hills of Munnar, every corner has a story, and knowing the right tips makes all the difference.
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is trying to see everything in a week. Kerala isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about slowing down. The backwaters, a network of lagoons and lakes along the Arabian Sea coast, best experienced on a traditional kettuvallam houseboat need at least two full days. Don’t book the cheapest option—go for a small, locally owned boat with a cook who makes fresh seafood curry. For Kerala beaches, the best ones aren’t the busiest. Skip Kovalam if you want peace—head to Marari or Varkala instead, where locals still mend nets at sunset and you can find a quiet spot under a palm tree. And don’t forget the hill stations, like Munnar and Wayanad, where tea plantations roll over mountains and the air stays cool even in April. Pack a light jacket—your hotel might say it’s 28°C, but the mist makes it feel like 18°C.
Food here is simple but unforgettable. Eat at local eateries called thali joints, not tourist restaurants. A ₹150 meal gives you rice, fish curry, sambar, and banana chips—all served on a banana leaf. Carry cash. Many homestays and small boats don’t take cards. And yes, you can wear shorts, but cover your shoulders in temples—no one will scold you, but they’ll notice. The best time to visit? October to March. Avoid July and August unless you love rain and zero sun. What you’ll find below are real stories from travelers who got it right—how to barter in spice markets, where to find the best ayurvedic massage, and why that one village in Alleppey still doesn’t have streetlights—and why that’s exactly why you should go.
