Kerala Travel Information: Your Complete Guide on How to Travel to Kerala

Are you planning a Kerala trip? This comprehensive Kerala travel information page will help you with everything you need—from how to reach Kerala, travel tips, best time to visit, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, our guide will make your travel to Kerala smooth and enjoyable.

Quick Facts about Kerala

• The state of Kerala is often called “God’s Own Country” and is a leading travel destination in South India.

• Capital city of Kerala is Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).

• Kochi (Cochin) is Kerala’s main business hub.

• Malayalam is the official language.

• English, Hindi, and Tamil are also spoken widely.

• Population is about 33 million people.

• Kerala has the highest literacy rate in India.

• Time zone is Indian Standard Time (UTC +5:30).

• Visitors experience a clean, green environment and welcoming local people.

• Kerala is known for its high safety standards for all travelers.

How to Travel to Kerala: Transport Options & Entry Points

By Air

The South Indian state of Kerala is easily accessible by air. The state has four international airports:

• Cochin International Airport (COK)

• Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)

• Calicut International Airport (CCJ)

• Kannur International Airport (CNN)

All major Indian cities and several global destinations have direct flights to these airports. This makes flying the fastest and most convenient way to start your Kerala journey.

By Train

Railway network of Kerala connects it to most parts of India. Important stations include Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam (Kochi), Kozhikode, and Alappuzha. If you prefer a scenic journey, traveling by train offers beautiful views of Kerala’s countryside.

By Road

National highways and state highways link Kerala to neighboring states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Buses, taxis, and self-drive options are all available. Kerala’s roads are well-maintained, making road trips safe and comfortable.

Which countries have direct international flights to Kerala?

• • United Arab Emirates (UAE)

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Oman

  • Qatar

  • Bahrain

  • Kuwait

  • Singapore

  • Malaysia

  • Vietnam

  • Thailand

  • Sri Lanka

• Which airlines offer direct international flights to Kerala?

  • Emirates

  • Qatar Airways

  • Saudia

  • Oman Air

  • Air Arabia

  • Etihad Airways

  • Gulf Air

  • Kuwait Airways

  • Singapore Airlines

  • Scoot

  • Air India Express

  • Air India

  • IndiGo

  • Akasa Air

  • AirAsia

  • VietJet

  • Malaysia Airlines

  • Thai Airways

  • Batik Air

  • SriLankan Airlines

  • Flynas

Kerala Climate – When is the best time to visit Kerala?

A tropical climate allows for year-round travel to Kerala.

• Winter (October to February): Cool, pleasant, and ideal for sightseeing and backwater cruises.

• Summer (March to May): Warm and suitable for exploring hill stations like Munnar, Thekkady, and Wayanad.

• Monsoon (June to September): Rainy and perfect for Ayurveda treatments and enjoying the lush scenery.

Plan your trip for the season that matches your interests.

What are the Top Tourist Attractions in Kerala?

A wide range of attractions awaits every traveler in Kerala.

Backwaters of Kerala:
Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam, Kochi, Paravur, and North Malabar offer beautiful houseboat cruises and scenic waterways.

Kerala Beaches:
Relax on the sandy shores of Kovalam, Varkala, Marari, Cherai, Bekal, and Muzhappilangad (India’s only drive-in beach).

Kerala Hill Stations:
Munnar, Thekkady, Wayanad, Vagamon, and Ponmudi are popular for cool weather and tea plantations.

Kerala Waterfalls:
Visit Athirapally, Meenmutty, Soochipara, Cheeyappara, and Thommankuthu for breathtaking views.

Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala:
Periyar, Wayanad, Silent Valley, Chinnar, and Parambikulam are famous for forest trails and wildlife sightings.

The top spiritual and heritage attractions to visit in Kerala

• Most Popular Temples in Kerala:

  • Guruvayur Temple (Thrissur)

  • Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (Trivandrum)

  • Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple (Pathanamthitta)

  • Ettumanoor Temple (Kottayam)

  • Vaikom Temple (Kottayam)

• Significant mosques in Kerala renowned for their history and architecture:

  • Beemapally Mosque (Trivandrum)

  • Cheraman Juma Masjid (Kodungallur)

  • Palayam Juma Masjid (Trivandrum)

•  Notable churches in Kerala attract both pilgrims and travelers:

  • St. Francis Church (Kochi)

  • Santa Cruz Basilica (Kochi)

  • St. Alphonsa Shrine (Bharananganam)

  • Vimalagiri Cathedral (Kottayam)

  • Malayatoor St. Thomas Church
    
  • Parumala Church
  • St. Mary’s Forane Church
  • Basilica of St. Mary’s (Champakulam Church)

• Jewish places of worship here are renowned for their history and architectural beauty:

  • Paradesi Synagogue (Kochi)

  • Chendamangalam Synagogue (Chendamangalam)

  • Kadavumbhagam Synagogue (Mattancherry)

  • Paravur Synagogue (North Paravur)

• Note:
  When visiting temples, mosques, churches, or synagogues in Kerala, modest dress is appreciated as a sign of respect.

Kerala Travel Tips for Visitors

• Plan ahead: Book hotels and tours in advance, especially during peak season.

• Pack smart: Bring light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and a raincoat if visiting during monsoon.

• Local travel: Use auto-rickshaws, taxis, or app-based cabs for short distances. Buses and trains are budget-friendly options.

• Respect culture: Dress modestly at temples and religious places.

• Health & safety: Kerala is safe for tourists, including solo women travelers. Always follow local guidelines.

Famous backwaters of Kerala and where to book a memorable houseboat stay

Unique backwaters of Kerala include Vembanad Lake, Ashtamudi Lake, and Punnamada Lake. There are 44 rivers in the state. You can book houseboat cruises in Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam, Kochi, and Nileshwar for a relaxing holiday experience.

What are the popular Ayurveda therapies, local foods, and traditional clothing styles in Kerala?

Popular Ayurveda Therapies in Kerala

Authentic Ayurveda treatments in Kerala are renowned worldwide.  Kerala is a global center for Ayurveda. You will find authentic therapies and rejuvenation treatments at licensed centers.  Some of the most sought-after therapies include:

• Abhyanga (full-body oil massage)

• Shirodhara (gentle pouring of oil on the forehead)

• Panchakarma (comprehensive body detoxification)

• Njavarakizhi (massage using herbal rice pouches)

These treatments are available at many certified Ayurveda resorts and wellness centers across Kerala.

Famous Local Foods of Kerala

Flavors and spices come together beautifully in the traditional Kerala cuisine. Popular dishes you must try are:

• Appam with stew (rice pancakes with coconut milk curry)

• Kerala Sadya (vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf)

• Malabar Parotta and Kerala beef fry

• Fish Moilee and Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish in banana leaf)

• Traditional desserts like Payasam

Coconut, spices, and fresh seafood are highlights of Kerala’s food culture.

Traditional Clothing Styles in Kerala

Traditional garments of Kerala showcase a blend of cultural pride and simplicity:

• Men: Usually wear a Mundu (a white cotton cloth wrapped around the waist)

• Women: Adorn the beautiful Kasavu Saree (ivory or cream saree with golden border), especially during festivals and weddings

These attires are a symbol of Kerala’s heritage and are often worn during special occasions and cultural events.

It is best to wear light cotton clothes because of Kerala’s warm climate. Always remember to dress modestly when visiting temples or mosques.

Staying online in Kerala: Mobile connectivity and internet options

Strong mobile network coverage is available throughout Kerala.  Major providers include Jio, Airtel, BSNL, and Vodafone Idea. Free WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes, and major towns. English is widely spoken, so communicating is easy for tourists.

Guidelines on travel formalities and health safety for Kerala trips

• Most foreign tourists require an Indian e-Visa or tourist visa to visit Kerala.

• The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR).

• ATMs are widely available across Kerala for easy cash withdrawal.

• Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, shops, and restaurants.

• Digital payments such as UPI and mobile wallets are commonly used.

• Kerala has reliable healthcare with government and private hospitals in every district.

• Emergency medical services are efficient and accessible for travelers.

Kerala – A Tourist-Friendly Destination

• A reputation for educational excellence and literacy sets Kerala apart from other States of India.

• Cleanliness and eco-friendly practices are a priority throughout the state.

• The region is considered very safe for tourists, including women and solo travelers.

• Local people are friendly and always willing to help visitors.

• Warm hospitality makes every guest feel welcome.

• Multilingual support is available in most tourist areas, with English widely spoken.

• Families, solo travelers, and groups all find Kerala a comfortable and inviting destination.

Book your Kerala tour package today and enjoy a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable trip in God’s Own Country.