Amusing visitors with its untamed natural charm, Kerala is among the top tourist destinations. You can go here at anytime of the year and it will offer you something unique every time. It is also called as “God’s own country”. This southern state is mainly known for its amazing backwaters, gorgeous hills and valleys, serene beaches, and much more. Kerala is filled with tourists all year round, and people love to spend their vacations here. If you plan to visit Kerala in January 2024, here’s a complete guide. Scroll down further to know what you can expect here.
Weather In Kerala In January
Kerala receives a chilling atmosphere in January. It can be best explored during this time of the year as the state is dry and cooler. The average temperature at this time would be around 28 degrees Celsius. There are also chances of little rain in some parts of the state. The places mentioned below are ideal for this time.
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8 Places To Visit In Kerala In January 2024
The exquisite beauty of Kerala in January is truly spellbinding and attracts nature lovers and peace seekers from across the globe with its charming evenings and refreshing mornings. As the weather remains pleasant, you can have the best time exploring the impeccable sites that make Kerala the God’s own country! Kerala is a mesmerizing state with an abundance of beauty. If you are planning to visit Kerala in January, here are the locations which you should not miss out.
- Alleppey – Amazing Backwaters
- Munnar – Serene Atmosphere
- Vagamon – Lush Green Gardens
- Varkala – Adventurous Expeditions
- Poovar – Scenic Beaches
- Thekkady – Exotic Wildlife
- Kannur – Colonial Town
- Nelliyampathy – Enchanting Vacations
1. Alleppey – Amazing Backwaters
Alleppey is one of the best places to visit in Kerala in January, where you can experience the amazing backwaters. People can enjoy houseboat trips in the mesmerizing climate in January. There are vast paddy fields, lakes and fishing villages, which makes it a wonderful attraction. You can also have your food here in coconut or banana leaves. Marari Beach and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary are the places where you can visit in Alleppey.
Nearest airport: Kochi Airport
Nearest railway station: Alleppey Railway Station
Things To Do: Stay at houseboats, go for sightseeing, visit bird sanctuary
Places To Stay: Chaandhni Lake View, Palmgrove Lake Resort, Colonel’s Beach Villa
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2. Munnar – Serene Atmosphere
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Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala. The great valleys and serene atmosphere, along with vast tea plantations, make it a special spot in Kerala for a honeymoon in January. While you are here, you can be accommodated in one of the lavish bungalows and have a remarkable stay for yourself. You can also gorge at the Cheeyappara Waterfalls, TATA Tea Museum, etc when you are here.
Nearest airport: Kochi Airport
Nearest railway station: Aluva Railway Station
Things To Do: Go for sightseeing tours
Places To Stay: Tea County Munnar, JJ Cottage, Joy Resort, Deep Woods Resort Munnar
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3. Vagamon – Lush Green Gardens
Vagamon is a much loved place by all the people. It is a perfect tourist destination and the most awesome of the places to visit in Kerala in January where you can connect with the nature. There are lush green gardens, amazing meadows, gorgeous dales, and many such things that make it an alluring hill station. While you are here, make sure to pay a visit at Thangal Hill, Vagamon Falls, and Maramala Waterfalls.
Nearest airport: Kochi International Airport
Nearest railway station: Kottayam Railway Station
Things To Do: Spend peaceful hours at Kurisumala Ashram, take an expedition to Murugan Hill
Places To Stay: Palette Hill View Resort, Holiday Vagamon, The Teadale Vagamon
4. Varkala – Adventurous Expeditions
It is one of the most surreal and best places to visit in Kerala in January which you should not miss out. People enjoy doing water sports here. You can indulge in activities like horse-riding, surfing, parasailing, etc. If you visit this beach during evening, you can observe the truly stunning sunset view. It is an important religious place for the followers of Hinduism too, as there are many temples around.
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest railway station: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station
Things To Do: Witness gorgeous views of Arabian Sea at Kappil Beach, visit Varkala Aquarium and Varkala Lighthouse
Places To Stay: Zostel, Clafouti Beach Resort, Piggy Hostel Varakala
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5. Poovar – Scenic Beaches
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If you are wondering where you should stay at Kerala in January, then Poovar should be the location. It has luxurious resorts, which will make your time memorable. It is especially known for its scenic beaches, resorts and backwaters which makes it one of the best places to visit in Kerala in January. You can pay a visit to Arjuna Backwaters, Aazhimala Siva Temple and the amazing pristine beaches present here.
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Railway Station
Things To Do: Enjoy a day boating in Poovar, take a trip to the beaches, go for a picnic to the Neyyar Dam
Places To Stay: Poovar Island Resort, Estuary Sarovar Portico, Isola Di Cocco
6. Thekkady – Exotic Wildlife
Thekkady is truly a magical place and the best of places to see in Kerala in January. You can indulge in boating activities while gazing at the exotic wildlife. Lion, Boars, Deer, and Bison are some of the animals found here. There is also a trekking trail from Mozhiyar to Thekkady Gavi which is very interesting and you must try. Elephant Junction, Mudra Cultural Centre, Chellarkovil, are the attractions here among many others.
Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
Nearest railway station: Kottayam Railway Station
Things To Do: Hike to Thekkady’s Border, feel close to nature during evening strolls, explore the wilderness at Periyar National Park
Places To Stay: Vanya Treehouse, Periyar Nest Resort, Abad Green Forest Resort
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7. Kannur – Colonial Town
Kannur is a breathtaking destination. An offbeat yet one of the best places to visit in Kerala in January, it has became even more popular for its weaving industry. The colonial town has the best beaches where you can sit back and relax. Brilliant architecture, splendid cashew plantations, ancient temples, etc surround the place. You can visit Fort St. Angelos, Ezhimala Beach and Tellicherry Fort here.
Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport
Nearest railway station: Kannur Main
Things To Do: Go for a sightseeing tour, visit beaches, enjoy local seafood
Places To Stay: Mascot Beach Resort, Ocean Green Home Stays, Kannur Beach House
8. Nelliyampathy – Enchanting Vacations
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Cardamom farms, tea, lemon, don’t these things make for a perfect winter afternoon hence Nelliyampathy becomes the best of places to see in Kerala in January. You can have an enchanting vacation where you can also trek at the community hall and gear up for adventure. You will see a forest filled with squirrels and elephants and a backdrop of amazing valleys.
Nearest airport: Coimbatore Airport
Nearest railway station: Palakkad Railway Station
Things To Do: Visit Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, go for a sightseeing tour
Places To Stay: Greenland Farm House Resort, Woodsville Forest Retreat, Coffee Valley Resort
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4 Things To Do In Kerala In January
Now that you know the “where” part, here are some things to do in Kerala while on your relaxation trip. Do not miss out on these activities as these are a few of the fun-filled things to get involved in:
1. Kayaking And Canoeing In Alleppey
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While visiting the backwaters of Alleppey, it is a must to visit the small canals located nearby. Get involved in Kayaking and Canoeing in Alleppey as you will get to see mother nature up close – lush greenery, coconut and palm trees with the sound of nature. You will encounter local houses, houseboats and would be able to capture the lives of the people living there. . This would definitely be an exhilarating and memorable experience for you.
2. Water Sports In Kovalam
Kovalam is an amazing place to relax and enjoy some water sports. Get involved in a range of water sports at the Kovalam Beach. A few amazing water sports in Kovalam include: scuba diving, water skiing, snorkeling, parasailing, and boat sailing. A small intake of adventure goes a long way. Getting involved in any of the sports would create a lifetime full of memories.
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3. Thekkady Jeep Safari
Get ready to experience a thrilling day full of adventure and adrenaline with Thekkady Jeep Safari. The adventure covers dense forests, acres of plantations, rich vegetation and waterfalls. It’s an incredible journey where you get to be around various flora and fauna. While there, you can spot multiple bird species, monkeys, and squirrels in their natural habitat. This is one of the must-do activities in Kerala.
4. Wayanad’s Chambra Peak Trekking
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Chembra Peak in Wayanad is the highest one in the region and lies 2100 meters above the sea level. You will get a chance to observe glorious clouds up above, which will increase your excitement level. Around 4-5 days should be more than enough to go through the magnificent nature. Get a surreal feeling and a full-scale view of the entire surroundings near Wayanad.
The trek is challenging and requires a lot of physical fitness and body management. You will also be witnessing a lot of flora and fauna on your trek, so enjoy nature while at it. Visiting a few locations around would be an added bonus to your trip: Banasura Sagar dam, Edakkal caves, Pookote Lake, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
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If you are planning to visit Kerala in January, these are the key attractions which you should not miss out at all. Once you visit them, you would want to stay here forever. These places are much more captivating than you can even imagine. So, tell your loved ones now about how amazing this Southern state is and plan a trip to Kerala soon.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kerala In January
Is January a good time to visit Kerala?
January remains cooler in Kerala with comparatively dry days. The month is ideal for sightseeing.
Which is the coldest month in Kerala?
June is the coldest month in Kerala.
What is the best time of year to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is during winter season, that is, from September to March.
What clothes to wear in Kerala in January?
Wear breathable clothes, preferably cotton. Carry traditional attires if you are planning to visit temples.
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