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

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Ready to pack for Kerala, India? If you're planning to go to Kerala, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kerala, India

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

What to wear/what to pack for Kerala, India

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you go to Kerala in January, you will notice that it is constantly hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February for Kerala can be very hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) 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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you pick the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

March

If you visit Kerala during March, you may find that it is sweltering, somewhat hazy and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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 more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

April

Traveling to Kerala in April, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot and somewhat hazy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 90s F (mid 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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 more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

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. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

May

May in Kerala is scorchingly hot and somewhat hazy. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June in Kerala is extremely hot and somewhat hazy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • 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 sure to find the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

July

If you visit Kerala during July, you may notice that it can be very hot and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 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 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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 airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

August

If you visit Kerala during August, you might find that it can be very hot and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 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 around 70 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large 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 neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

September

If you vacation in Kerala during September, you will probably see that it can be sweltering and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 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. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

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 more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

October

If you visit Kerala during October, you are likely to see that it can be sweltering and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 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. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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 some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

November

Traveling to Kerala in November, you will notice that it is extremely hot and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

December

If you go to Kerala in December, you will notice that it is hot and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain occasionally. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kerala. 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 more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Kerala, India

Located in the southwestern region of India, Kerala is a mesmerizing state that is often referred to as "God's Own Country". It is known for its cosmopolitan cities, serene backwaters, stunning beaches, tranquil hill stations, unique culture, and exotic wildlife. Kerala has always enticed tourists from all over the world with its natural beauty and richest heritage. If you're planning a trip to Kerala, here are the top tourist attractions that you must visit:

1. Backwaters: Kerala's backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, lakes, and lagoons that run parallel to the Arabian sea coast. They offer a unique experience of cruising and indulging in cultural activities. Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam are some of the famous backwater destinations in Kerala.

2. Beaches: Kerala is blessed with some of the most pristine, peaceful, and scenic beaches in India. Kovalam, Varkala, and Marari are the most popular beaches that attract tourists from all corners of the world. These beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and witnessing spectacular sunsets.

3. Hill Stations: Kerala's hill stations are a perfect escape from the scorching heat of the cities. They are a great place to relax, rejuvenate, and breathe in fresh air. Munnar, Wayanad, and Vagamon are the popular hill stations that offer breathtaking views of tea plantations, dense forests, and waterfalls.

4. Wildlife Sanctuaries: Kerala is home to many species of wildlife that are threatened with extinction. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Silent Valley National Park are the famous sanctuaries that allow visitors to spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and other exotic animals.

5. Forts and Palaces: Kerala has some of the most magnificent forts, palaces, and museums that showcase the state's architectural legacy. Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and Padmanabhapuram Palace are some of the famous landmarks that allow you to relive the era of the kings and sultans.

6. Ayurveda: Kerala has a rich history of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. Visitors can indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and massages that rejuvenate both body and mind.

Overall, Kerala is a mystical, charming, and awe-inspiring place that offers something to every taste and preference. Plan your trip today to explore this majestic state that will leave you spellbound.

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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