Kerala Backwaters, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Kerala Backwaters, India? If you're planning to go to Kerala Backwaters, I've got 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 is constantly hot 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

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

February

If you visit Kerala Backwaters during February, you are likely to notice that it is really 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

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things 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.

  • 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
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

March

Traveling to Kerala Backwaters in March, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel 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 repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to find the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

If you visit Kerala Backwaters during April, you will probably see that it can be very 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 around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A good option 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. Be sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • 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

May

Traveling to Kerala Backwaters in May, you will notice that it is extremely hot and somewhat stormy. 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

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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. Make sure to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

In June, 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 more than half of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 90%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you find the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

July

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

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you vacation in Kerala Backwaters during August, you may notice that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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. Check that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just 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 areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

September

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

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

Traveling to Kerala Backwaters in October, you will notice that it is pretty consistently 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

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you visit Kerala Backwaters during November, you will probably find that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 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 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you vacation in Kerala Backwaters during December, you might see that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

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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