Kerala is one of India’s most friendly, and stunning destinations. It is a paradise for outdoor and nature enthusiasts and is the perfect laid-back introduction to India. A complete contrast to North India, Kerala is warm all year round, experiencing a tropical climate, with distinct dry and wet seasons. The best time to visit is from mid-November, once the monsoon has retreated. Our winter months are ideal for Kerala, between December and April. The southwest monsoon rains arrive again from late May onwards.
The key highlights of Kerala are the Backwaters and Western Ghats, which offer extraordinary landscapes being one of the world’s most biodiverse regions in the world. It is a hotspot for conservation. Central Kerala, which should not be missed, is home to 9000 species of plants and animals. You can find everything from elephants, leopards, and tigers to snakes and lizards.
The interior of Kerala passes the tea-growing region of Munnar, the spice plantations of Periyar, and the coffee-growing estates of Wayanad. All these regions, particularly Munnar, offers some superb hiking trails during the dry season.
Experience a unique stay in a tree house or on a working plantation. Many hotels offer superbly comfortable and provide activities to experience local life.
No trip to Kerala is complete without visiting the backwaters, the jewel in Kerala’s crown. Made up of a vast labyrinth of palm fringed rivers, lakes, canals and lagoons, the shimmering Backwaters stretch 75km from Kollam in the south to Cochin in the north. The best way to enjoy this slower pace of life is onboard a traditional kettuvalum (houseboat).
Northern Kerala is perfect for those wishing to escape the crowds, it’s a fantastic alternative to more classic routes through Kerala. Mangalore and Calicut are great access points to the northern regions. The beach resort starts in Bekal and continues south along the Malabar Coast. This northern region is famous for the Theyyam dancing and if you are in the country during the temple season do not miss one of the shows.
