Kerala, everything you need to know

Kerala, 8º away from the equator has a tropical humid climate with unique geography and physical features. This unique geographical features has made Kerala one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. The Majestic Western ghats on side, and the beautiful Arabian sea on the other side, makes Kerala’s climate and geography so unique.


Kerala is one of the most developed but pristine states in the country. The natural beauty of Kerala cannot be expressed in words. Large mountain ranges, deep valleys, golden sand beaches, backwaters, dams, rivers, waterfalls, temples, churches, palaces, forts and more. Everything you will ever want to see is here. All within just a 100-200 km radius.


As the slogan says, Kerala is indeed God’s Own Country. Not only because of the geographical features, but also because of the Religious unity in the state. Temples, Churches and Mosques all in the same street, you will not see this sight anywhere else in world. Keralites celebrates every religious festivals. Festival season in Kerala is a sight to see, with fireworks and cultural events it is an amazing sight. Not to mention the mouth watering food.


Best season to visit?

Many people have asked me the same question, What is the best time to visit Kerala. And I would say any time.

The climate of Kerala is almost same throughout the year, except for Monsoon ( Raining season ) during June-Aug. But that season is known for rain tourism, a lot of activities you can do during the raining season is organized during this time of the year. Nov-Feb is peak tourist season, its a lot cooler than other months, but it never gets too cold unless you visit the hill stations. All other months are okay, hotels will be cheaper because of the non-tourist season. But generally avoid April-May. It gets hot.


What to pack for Kerala?

1. DEET: To prevent mosquito bites
2. Warm weather clothes, not too many winter Jackets
3. Flip flops for the beach.
4. nternational Driving Licence if you plan to drive in Kerala.
   
5. Sunscreen 
   
6. Umbrella ( or you can buy them cheaper in Kerala )

Currency
INR is the preferred choice, but some places do accept currencies such as USD, GBP and EUR, but they may charge a premium.

You can easily find an currency exchange centre anywhere in Kerala.


Travelling
Kerala has 3 Airports. Main Airport is in Cochin (Kochi). From most places you can easily get a connecting flight via Dubai, or Singapore.Emirates, Air India, Singapore Airlines, AirAsia, British Airways have daily flights to Kochi.

Most of the tourists arrive in Kochi because it is well connected to international locations. And Kochi is the hub of Kerala. From Kochi you can go to anywhere in Kerala, because of the central location.

Kerala is well connected by roads, railways and sometimes waterways.
Renting a car: Can be done, but too much traffic on the road. Parking can be very difficult.

Renting a motorcycle: Easy and fast transport. Will give you the best visual of Kerala.

Railways: Cheap and fast. But can be very crowded and a little icky.

Buses: Same as railway.

Waterways: Very cheap, but not well connected.

Taxi: Fast and very clean. Might be a little expensive.

What to expect in Kerala?

Astonishing natural beauty and very warm hearted people. Great food, but can be a little spicy.




Have a great Kerala Trip!