Monsoon in Kerala: Best Time to Visit, Places, Travel Tips & Experiences
Monsoon in Kerala brings life to rivers, hills, gardens, and backwaters with its lush rain-soaked beauty. Also known as God’s Own Country, Kerala is a beautiful blend of unique culture, delicious local cuisine, and traditional Ayurvedic treatments. The monsoon trip in Kerala is ideal for honeymooners, families, and solo travellers alike, offering a peaceful vibe and fewer tourists at budget-friendly prices. You can choose a short break or stay longer, with numerous flexible options available, including houseboats, beaches, hill stations, and small towns. Whether you’re a couple seeking quiet backwater moments or a solo traveller chasing green landscapes, the Kerala monsoon offers a unique travel experience.
When is the Monsoon in Kerala?
The Kerala monsoon date was officially declared as May 24, 2025, by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This occurred eight days earlier than the expected onset date of June 1, marking the earliest monsoon arrival since 2009.
The monsoon in Kerala typically lasts from late May to early October, with variations in intensity across months:
- June to July: Heavy rainfall across most regions.
- August: Moderately dry with short intervals.
- September to early October: Rain begins to slow down.
If you’re wondering about the best month for a Kerala monsoon trip, early August or September is a perfect time, when the greenery is rich, and you will experience the least rain.
Also Read: 4 Days In Kerala
Weather & Travel Conditions
The monsoon in Kerala is cool and humid, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 29°c. It’s ideal for nature lovers, those who appreciate greenery, Ayurvedic treatments, and waterfalls.
Heavy rains occur in the late afternoons and evenings, while mornings and noons are sunnier with moderate weather. The moist air and high temperatures make the weather humid and sticky, but carrying an umbrella or raincoat makes it easier to explore outdoors.
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Places to Visit in Kerala During Monsoon
Looking for the best places to visit in Kerala during monsoon? Here’s a region-wise breakdown to help plan your journey.
Hill Stations & Nature
- Munnar: You can see the foggy tea plantations and beautiful waterfalls. Munnar to Thekkady is a scenic 4-hr drive, ideal in early September.
- Wayanad is best for forest trekking, caves, and scenic lakes
- Vagamon is filled with peaceful fields and mist-covered viewpoints that invite relaxation and a sense of wonder,
Backwaters
- Alleppey and Kumarakom: Rain-refreshed canals and peaceful houseboat rides showcase Kerala’s monsoon beauty.
Wildlife & Forest
- Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary): Discover the joy of Thekkady Wildlife by spotting elephants, wild boars, and bison during relaxing boat safaris on Periyar Lake.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: In Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, enjoy wandering through dense forests where you might catch a glimpse of deer, monkeys and leopards.
Waterfalls
- Athirappilly Falls is known as the “Niagara of South India.” It is spectacular during the monsoon season.
- Meenmutty Falls in Wayanad is a multi-tiered beauty best viewed after rainfall.
Beaches
- While swimming isn’t recommended, Varkala and Kovalam provide stunning monsoon escapes, ideal for peaceful walks and photography in this weather.
If you’re planning to visit at this time, these are the top places to visit in Kerala in the monsoon to experience lush greenery and natural beauty during the monsoon.
Related Post: Best Places To Visit In Kerala
Monsoon Travel Budget
Since monsoon in Kerala is the off-season, discounts are available on accommodations, including houseboats and wellness resorts. Options range from budget hotels and homestays to luxury lodgings during Kerala’s monsoon.
A 5-7 day trip is ideal to explore local attractions, nature, backwaters, and hill stations.
- Budget: ₹2,500–₹3,500/day
- Mid-range: ₹5,000–₹8,000/day
- Luxury: ₹10,000/day and above (includes Ayurveda packages)
Many resorts in Kerala offer special monsoon tourism packages that include spa treatments, guided walks, and local cuisine. However, you will need to pay extra for houseboats and safaris during the Monsoon in Kerala.
Safety During Monsoon
While the Kerala monsoon season is incredibly beautiful, follow certain precautions that will help you stay safe:
- Avoid low-lying coastal towns during heavy rain.
- Check for weather updates for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.
- Make sure the waterfalls are safe before visiting to enjoy them responsibly.
- Kerala is safe for solo and female travellers; avoid travelling alone at night and stay in well-rated accommodations.
- Check with locals or tour guides before venturing to isolated waterfalls or hill paths.
Unique Experiences to try in Monsoon
What makes the monsoon in Kerala special is its mix of cultural, wellness, and nature-based experiences.
- Houseboat cruise, kayaking, or paddle boating in Alleppey or Kumarakom to experience the backwaters of Kerala.
- Relaxing Ayurvedic massages, spa treatments, and yoga retreats in Kovalam and Wayanad.
- Tea garden walks with the smell of wet soil and fresh tea leaves in Munnar or Wayanad are unforgettable.
- Celebrate the biggest harvest festival of Kerala, Onam, in August and September, featuring boat races, floral designs (Pookkalam), and feasts.
- Visit the spice plantations to smell the fragrances of fresh cardamom, pepper, and nutmeg.
Planning your holiday in Kerala but confused about what to do? These Kerala travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
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Where to Stay (Monsoon-Friendly Stays)
During Kerala’s monsoon, accommodations range from budget to luxury, offering lower rates and better amenities. As it’s the off-season, hotels are less crowded and you can find great deals. Options include hotels, homestays, hostels, houseboats, and eco-resorts. Eco-resorts and houseboats are ideal for couples or families looking for a romantic or calm stay.
You can book the eco-resorts in Thekkady for jungle views, or a houseboat in Alleppey for a misty stay, operating safely in the backwaters. On the other hand, solo travellers can choose affordable hostels or homestays during the monsoon in Kerala.
How to Reach Kerala in Monsoon?
Discover the best ways to travel to Kerala during the monsoon for a safe, enjoyable trip amid lush landscapes.
By Flight
Cochin International Airport (serving Munnar and Alleppey), Trivandrum (for Kovalam and Varkala), and Calicut (for Wayanad) offer direct flights. Feel free to check the flight schedule, as monsoon may cause occasional flight delays.
By Train
Kerala is easily accessible with regular trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other cities. The main railway stations- Ernakulam, Alappuzha, and Kottayam- serve as key hubs connecting Kerala to neighbouring states.
By Road
Kerala’s roads are well-maintained but pose safety risks in hilly or rural areas due to landslides or fog. You can drive, hire a cab, or take buses to major spots. Local transport, such as autos and taxis, is affordable but costs more during heavy rain.
Monsoon Travel Tips
Before you pack your bags to travel during monsoon in Kerala, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Avoid areas prone to flooding or landslides, such as Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki, and Kottayam districts.
- Use offline maps in regions with poor mobile networks.
- Dress in light layers to stay warm and dry. Don’t forget to stay hydrated
- Keep emergency contacts saved and handy.
- Follow local guidance before trekking, visiting waterfalls, or entering forested areas during the monsoon season in Kerala.
You May Also Like to Read: The Ultimate Guide to Top Tourist Places in Kerala
Conclusion
Are you ready to experience the peaceful side of nature? The monsoon in Kerala is calling you. This is the perfect season to visit tea gardens, enjoy Ayurvedic retreats, see waterfalls, and glide through peaceful backwaters. Customise your Kerala tour package with TravelTriangle and escape to a dreamy vacation with your loved ones.
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FAQs
Are there any travel restrictions or permits required?
No special permits are needed, but always check local guidelines, especially during festivals or the monsoon season in Kerala.
Is a houseboat ride available in the monsoon?
Yes, houseboats are available during the monsoon season, and it is safe for every type of traveller.
Which is better to visit: Munnar or Wayanad during the rains?
To experience tea gardens, hills, resorts, and romantic vibes, Munnar is perfect. However, for Kerala’s local culture and experience of village life, Wayanad is the ideal place.
Can I travel with kids during the monsoon?
Yes, you can travel with kids during the monsoon to Kerala at some of the best monsoon spots like Munnar, Wayanad, Thekkady, Kumarakom, etc.
Is it possible to plan a Kerala trip under ₹10,000?
Yes, it is possible to plan a Kerala trip under INR 10,000, but with proper planning, including budget-friendly accommodations, transportation, and food options.
Are tourist attractions open during the monsoon?
Yes, most tourist attractions are open during the monsoon in Kerala, such as houseboat cruises, Munnar, Kovalam Beaches, Fort Kochi, and Periyar National Park. However, some outdoor activities have limited access because of weather conditions.
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