Kerala Travel Tips
Everything you need to know before your trip to God's Own Country
Visa & Entry
India requires a visa for most foreign nationals. The process is straightforward and can be completed online for citizens of over 160 countries.
e-Visa (Most Visitors)
Citizens of most countries can apply for an Indian e-Visa online at indianvisaonline.gov.in. The Tourist e-Visa is available for 30 days (double entry) or 1 year (multiple entry). Apply at least 4 days before travel.
Visa on Arrival
Select nationalities are eligible for Visa on Arrival at designated airports including Kochi (Cochin International Airport). Check the latest eligible country list before travel.
Entry Points to Kerala
The main international gateway is Cochin International Airport (COK), Kochi. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) and Calicut International Airport (CCJ) also handle international flights.
Indian Nationals
No visa required. A valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, or Voter ID) is sufficient for domestic travel within Kerala.
Weather by Season
Kerala has three distinct seasons. Each offers a different experience — choose based on what you want to see and do.
Winter — Oct to Feb (Best Season)
Cool, dry, and pleasant across all destinations. Temperatures range from 18°C to 32°C. Ideal for hill stations like Munnar and Vagamon, backwater cruises in Alleppey, and beach visits to Varkala. Peak tourist season — book accommodation and vehicles in advance.
Summer — Mar to May
Temperatures rise to 35°C+ in the plains, but hill stations remain comfortable (15°C–25°C). Good time for Munnar, Thekkady, and Vagamon. Coastal areas can be hot and humid. Fewer crowds and better rates.
Monsoon — Jun to Sep
Kerala receives heavy rainfall from the South-West Monsoon. Lush green landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and Ayurveda season. Alleppey backwaters are beautiful but some activities may be restricted. Thekkady and hill stations are misty and atmospheric. Roads can be affected — plan with flexibility.
Post-Monsoon — Oct
The transition month. Greenery is at its peak, crowds are thin, and prices are lower. An excellent time to visit before the peak season begins. Most destinations are accessible and beautiful.
Money & Payments
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR). Kerala is well-served by ATMs and digital payments, though carrying some cash is always advisable.
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR). Notes come in ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2000 denominations. Exchange currency at airports, authorised money changers, or banks. Avoid exchanging with unauthorised dealers.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. International cards (Visa, Mastercard) work at most ATMs. Inform your bank before travel to avoid blocks on international transactions. ATMs in remote hill areas may be limited — carry sufficient cash.
Digital Payments (UPI)
India's UPI payment system is widely accepted — from large hotels to small tea shops. Apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm are ubiquitous. International visitors can use UPI with select foreign bank accounts or via partner apps.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A tip of ₹50–₹200 for drivers, guides, and hotel staff is customary. Restaurant bills may include a service charge — check before adding a tip.
Bargaining
Bargaining is acceptable at local markets and with auto-rickshaws (where meters are not used). Fixed-price shops, malls, and restaurants do not expect bargaining. Our taxi services use transparent, pre-agreed pricing.
Language Tips
Malayalam is the official language of Kerala. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by most educated locals.
Malayalam Basics
A few words go a long way. Hello / Welcome: Namaskaram (നമസ്കാരം). Thank you: Nandi (നന്ദി). Yes: Athe (അതേ). No: Alla (അല്ല). How much?: Ethra? (എത്ര?). Water: Vellam (വെള്ളം).
English in Kerala
English is widely understood in hotels, restaurants, tourist sites, and by drivers. Road signs are in both Malayalam and English. In rural areas and small villages, basic English may be limited — our drivers can assist with communication.
Hindi
Hindi is understood by many Keralites, especially in the tourism industry, though it is not a native language. Do not assume all locals speak Hindi — English is the safer common language.
Translation Apps
Google Translate supports Malayalam and works well for reading signs and menus. Download the Malayalam language pack for offline use before your trip.
Health & Safety
Kerala is one of India's safest and most health-conscious states. A few precautions will ensure a comfortable, worry-free trip.
Water
Drink only bottled or filtered water. Avoid tap water and ice from unknown sources. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive. Most hotels provide filtered drinking water.
Food Safety
Kerala cuisine is generally safe and hygienic. Stick to freshly cooked food. Avoid raw salads and cut fruit from street vendors if you have a sensitive stomach. Coconut water from fresh coconuts is safe and refreshing.
Vaccinations
No mandatory vaccinations for India unless arriving from a yellow fever zone. Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure.
Mosquitoes
Use mosquito repellent, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon months. Wear long sleeves and trousers in the evenings. Dengue and malaria are present but rare in tourist areas. Most hotels provide mosquito nets or repellents.
Sun & Heat
The sun is strong year-round. Use SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated. Avoid prolonged outdoor activity between 11am and 3pm during summer months.
Medical Facilities
Kerala has excellent medical infrastructure. Major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Thrissur have well-equipped hospitals. Keep a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications. Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions from our travellers
Ready to Plan Your Kerala Trip?
Send us your travel dates and we'll put together a personalised itinerary.