Welcome to Kerala – God’s Own Country

Kerala, located on the southwest coast of India, is a lush and peaceful state known for its rolling hills, calm backwaters, and golden beaches. Canadian travelers seeking an authentic holiday will find Kerala a perfect mix of nature, culture, and wellness.

This guide provides complete Kerala travel information from Canada, covering flights, visa rules, currency, transport, and top attractions. Whether you are planning Kerala tour packages from Canada, South India holidays from Canada, or looking for a comprehensive Kerala tourism guide for Canadian visitors, you will find everything you need here.

✈️ Flights from Canada to Kerala

Reaching Kerala from Canada is convenient, with many one-stop and connecting flight options available throughout the year. Several leading airlines operate regular services from major Canadian cities, offering flexible choices for travelers planning Kerala tour packages from Canada.

🛫 Major Airlines Operating from Canada to Kerala

Prominent international airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Air India, British Airways, Lufthansa, Thai Airways, Air Canada, and United Airlines fly from Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal to India. These flights provide onward connections to Kerala’s three major international airports — Cochin International Airport (COK), Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), and Calicut International Airport (CCJ).

One-Stop Flights via the Middle East

There are currently no nonstop flights from Canada to Kerala, but passengers can easily reach the state with one-stop options. Travelers flying with Emirates, Qatar Airways, or Etihad Airways can enjoy smooth journeys with short stopovers in Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi, followed by direct onward flights to Kerala airports. These Middle Eastern connections are among the most popular routes for Canada to Kerala travel due to their shorter layovers and excellent onboard services.

Connections via Asia and Europe

Thai Airways connects passengers from major Canadian airports through Bangkok (BKK) to Kochi (COK). Travelers choosing British Airways or Lufthansa can also connect through London or Frankfurt, ensuring convenient links to South India. These routes are well-suited for travelers seeking flexible itineraries and comfortable layovers during their Kerala holidays from Canada.

🇨🇦 Flights Operated by Air Canada and United Airlines

Air Canada operates services from Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montréal (YUL), Calgary (YYC), and Edmonton (YEG) to major Indian cities such as Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Amritsar (ATQ). From these hubs, travelers can take domestic flights to Kerala’s airports with carriers like IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, and Akasa Air.

Likewise, United Airlines offers connections from Toronto and Vancouver to Delhi and Mumbai, providing convenient onward domestic flights to Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Calicut.

Travel Duration and Booking Tips

The average flying time from Toronto to Kochi is around 17–19 hours, including stopovers. For smoother travel and better rates, it is advisable to book early, especially during peak tourist months between November and February. Choosing flexible travel dates and early reservations ensures competitive fares and comfortable connections for Canada to Kerala tour packages.

Visa and Entry Requirements for Canadian Tourists

Canadian citizens visiting Kerala require an Indian e-Tourist Visa (e-TV). The application is done online through the official Government of India portal and is available for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond arrival and carry a printed copy of your visa approval while traveling. Visitors arriving in India through Delhi or Mumbai can connect to Kerala by domestic flight or train. This process is simple and welcoming for tourists from Canada.

Climate and Best Time to Visit Kerala

Kerala has a pleasant tropical climate throughout the year.

• Winter (Oct – Feb): Cool and comfortable, ideal for sightseeing and beach stays.

• Summer (Mar – May): Warm and dry, best for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.

• Monsoon (Jun – Sep): Refreshing rains, perfect for Ayurveda and wellness treatments.

Most Canadian travelers prefer November to February, when the weather is clear and cool for exploring Kerala tourist attractions.

Top Tourist Attractions in Kerala

Kerala offers diverse destinations for visitors from Canada:

• Kochi (Cochin): Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Chinese nets, and spice markets.

• Munnar: Tea gardens, rolling hills, and cool mountain air.

• Thekkady (Periyar): Periyar National Park, boat cruises, and spice plantations.

• Alappuzha (Alleppey): Backwater houseboats and village life tours.

• Kumarakom: Bird sanctuary and lakeside resorts.

• Kovalam: Crescent beaches and Ayurveda retreats.

• Varkala: Cliffside views and yoga centers.

• Wayanad: Forests, waterfalls, and tribal heritage.

• Athirappilly: Kerala’s famous waterfalls and green valleys.

Each spot offers a unique blend of nature and culture for those booking Kerala tour packages from Canada.

Wellness, Ayurveda & Cultural Experiences

Kerala is world-renowned for its Ayurveda and yoga retreats, offering personalized wellness programs that focus on mind and body balance. Many Canadian tourists in Kerala combine Ayurveda treatments with leisure travel for a restorative experience.

The state’s culture is rich and colorful. Enjoy Kathakali dance shows, Kalaripayattu martial arts, temple festivals, and authentic Kerala cuisine to immerse yourself in local traditions.

Currency, Banks & ATMs

The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs and banks are found in all major towns and tourist spots. International cards are widely accepted for payments in hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Currency exchange is available at airports and authorized centers. Carrying some cash in small denominations is helpful for local transactions during your Kerala holiday from Canada.

Getting Around Kerala

Kerala’s transport network is well developed. Tourists can travel by chauffeur-driven cars, domestic flights, trains, or state buses between cities.

Smooth roads and scenic routes make intercity travel a pleasure for those on South India tour packages from Canada.

Languages and Friendly People

Malayalam is the state language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. People are helpful and hospitable, ensuring a safe and pleasant stay for Canadian visitors to Kerala.

Travel Tips for Canadian Travelers

• Apply for the e-Tourist Visa in advance.

• Keep copies of documents digitally and in print.

• Use bottled or filtered water.

• Dress modestly at temples and heritage sites.

• Choose registered Ayurveda centers and licensed houseboats.

• Carry light cotton clothes and sunscreen.

These tips help ensure a smooth and enjoyable Kerala trip from Canada.

Why Kerala Appeals to Canadian Tourists

Kerala delivers everything Canadian travelers seek — natural beauty, cultural depth, and wellness. From backwater houseboats to tea valleys and Ayurvedic spas, each moment creates lasting memories.

Plan your next Kerala tour package from Canada and discover why this beautiful region of India is loved by visitors from across the world.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Kerala Travel Information from Canada

1. How can I travel from Canada to Kerala?

Travelers from Canada can reach Kerala easily through one-stop flights. Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Air India, British Airways, Lufthansa, Thai Airways, Air Canada, and United Airlines operate services from Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal to India. Most passengers fly via Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, London, Frankfurt, or Bangkok, with direct onward flights to Kerala airports – Kochi (COK), Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), or Calicut (CCJ).

2. Are there direct flights from Canada to Kerala?

There are currently no nonstop flights from Canada to Kerala. However, travelers can take one-stop flights with Emirates, Qatar Airways, or Etihad Airways, which connect through Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi and then fly directly to Kerala’s international airports.

3. What is the flight duration from Canada to Kerala?

The total travel time from Toronto to Kochi is usually between 17 and 19 hours, depending on the airline and layover duration. Flights from Vancouver and Montreal may take slightly longer due to longer routing times.

4. Which airlines operate flights from Canada to India and Kerala?

Major airlines connecting Canada to India and onward to Kerala include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Air India, Lufthansa, British Airways, Thai Airways, Air Canada, and United Airlines. After reaching Delhi, Mumbai, or Amritsar, travelers can take domestic flights to Kerala via IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air, or Air India.

5. Do Canadian tourists need a visa to visit Kerala?

Yes. Canadian citizens must obtain an Indian e-Tourist Visa (e-TV) before traveling. The application can be completed online through the official Government of India website. The e-Visa allows stays of 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years, depending on the selected option. A printed copy of the approved visa should be carried during travel.

6. What is the best time to visit Kerala from Canada?

The best time to visit Kerala is between November and February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. This period is ideal for backwater cruises, hill-station stays, and beach holidays. The monsoon season (June to September) is perfect for Ayurvedic treatments and wellness retreats.

7. What is the currency used in Kerala, and how can I exchange money?

The currency in Kerala is the Indian Rupee (INR). Foreign currency can be exchanged at airports, banks, hotels, and authorized money changers. ATMs are available in all major towns, and international debit or credit cards are accepted widely.

8. What are the main tourist attractions in Kerala for Canadian visitors?

Canadian tourists often enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation in Kerala. Popular attractions include Alappuzha backwaters, Munnar hill station, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady, Kovalam and Varkala beaches, Kochi heritage town, and Athirappilly Waterfalls. Wellness experiences such as Ayurveda, yoga, and cultural shows like Kathakali are also highly recommended.

9. How can I travel within Kerala?

Kerala has an excellent transport network. Visitors can use private taxis, chauffeur-driven cars, trains, buses, and domestic flights. For shorter distances, auto-rickshaws,  services are available everywhere in Kerala.

10. Is English widely spoken in Kerala?

Yes. Although Malayalam is the main language, English is widely spoken and understood across Kerala, especially in hotels, restaurants, airports, and tourist centers. Canadian tourists will find it easy to communicate and travel comfortably.

11. What should I pack for a trip from Canada to Kerala?

Light cotton clothes are ideal for Kerala’s warm weather. Carry comfortable footwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for day tours. During the monsoon months, a light raincoat or umbrella is also useful.

12. Why is Kerala a popular destination for Canadian travelers?

Kerala offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and wellness. Canadians appreciate its calm backwaters, tea gardens, scenic beaches, and Ayurvedic traditions. The state’s friendly people, excellent hospitality, and unique travel experiences make Kerala tourism one of the most sought-after holiday options from Canada.

13. Can I book Kerala tour packages directly from Canada?

Yes. Many reputed travel operators, including keralagreenery, offer customized Kerala tour packages from Canada. These packages include accommodation, transfers, guided tours, and Ayurveda or cultural experiences. Booking early helps secure better fares and availability during peak travel months.