Kerala Backwaters, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Kerala Backwaters, India? If you're planning to go to Kerala Backwaters, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kerala Backwaters, India

Based on the climate and weather in Kerala Backwaters, India, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kerala Backwaters, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kerala Backwaters, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Kerala Backwaters, India by month

January

Traveling to Kerala Backwaters in January, you will notice that it can be sweltering and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to choose the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you visit Kerala Backwaters during February, you are likely to find that it can be very hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

If you vacation in Kerala Backwaters during March, you will probably notice that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to find the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

April

If you go to Kerala Backwaters in April, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

May

May for Kerala Backwaters can be sweltering and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June in this region is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

July in Kerala Backwaters is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

August in Kerala Backwaters is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

September

In September, Kerala Backwaters is hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kerala Backwaters, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

October

If you are traveling to Kerala Backwaters in October, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November in Kerala Backwaters is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

December

December here can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    India has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala Backwaters. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you get the right kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Kerala Backwaters, India

The Kerala Backwaters is a vast network of lagoons, lakes, canals, and rivers that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast in the southwest Indian state of Kerala. The backwaters stretch over 900 kilometers and encompass several picturesque towns, villages, and hamlets. The serene waterways, the verdant landscapes, and the unique culture and lifestyle of the local communities make the Kerala Backwaters one of the top tourist destinations in India. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in the Kerala Backwaters that you must visit.

1. Alleppey: Also known as Alappuzha, Alleppey is the hub of the Kerala Backwaters, and the principal gateway for tourists. The town is famous for its sprawling network of canals, serene beaches, and the rustic houseboats. You can take a leisurely boat ride through the narrow waterways, soak in the stunning vistas, and get the feel of the local life. The town is also known for its traditional coir industries, and you can witness the skillful workers extract fiber from coconut husks to make ropes, mats, and carpets.

2. Kumarakom: Kumarakom is a charming cluster of islands on the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala. The town is famous for its bird sanctuary, which attracts migratory birds from around the world, including Siberian cranes, herons, egrets, and kingfishers. You can take a boat ride around the lake, visit the bird sanctuary, or indulge in a traditional Ayurveda massage to rejuvenate your mind and body.

3. Kollam: Kollam, also known as Quilon, is a historic port town on the Arabian Sea coast, and the entry point to the Southern Backwaters. The town is famous for its cashew nut plantations, some of which date back to the colonial era. You can take a leisurely walk along the beaches, visit the ancient temples and churches, or experience the thrill of fishing in the backwaters.

4. Cochin: Cochin, also known as Kochi, is the cultural capital of Kerala, and the commercial hub of South India. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and you can witness the blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences in the architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle. The backwaters of Cochin encompass several islands, including Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, and Willingdon Island, which are famous for their historic landmarks, charming cafes, and boutique hotels.

5. Thiruvallam: Thiruvallam is a serene village on the banks of the Karamana River, a tributary of the backwaters. The town is famous for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Parasurama, a legendary figure in Hindu mythology. You can take a boat ride along the river, visit the temple, or indulge in some authentic Kerala cuisine at the nearby restaurants.

The Kerala Backwaters is a unique tourist destination that offers the perfect blend of tranquility, culture, and adventure. Whether you want to unwind on a houseboat, explore the pristine backwaters, or indulge in the local cuisine, the Kerala Backwaters has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags, and embark on a memorable journey of a lifetime.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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