Welcome to Kerala – God’s Own Country

Kerala, in South India, is a land of calm backwaters, tropical beaches, misty hills, and timeless traditions. For tourists from the USA, this region offers everything a traveler seeks – natural beauty, culture, and comfort.
Many NRIs living in the United States return home for family vacations, luxury holidays, and honeymoons in Kerala. The Kerala travel guide for US citizens highlights the state’s friendly people, clean environment, and well-connected tourist infrastructure that make every visit special.

✈️ Flights from the USA to Kerala

Traveling to Kerala from America is simple with multiple one-stop flight connections. Air India, United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and international carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, and Lufthansa serve major routes between the USA and India.

🛫 Popular Routes and Airlines

• US Departure Airports: New York (JFK / EWR), Chicago (ORD), San Francisco (SFO), Washington DC (IAD).

• Indian Arrival Airports: Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Bengaluru (BLR), Hyderabad (HYD), and Ahmedabad (AMD).

• From these hubs, connect easily to Cochin (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), and Calicut (CCJ) in Kerala.

Tips for Finding the Best Fares

• Book early: Prices drop when you book 4–6 weeks ahead.

• Be flexible with dates: Mid-week flights and off-peak months cost less.

• Compare airlines: Use fare trackers to spot price drops.

Flying from the United States to Kerala is now smooth, affordable, and comfortable – ideal for both family and honeymoon trips.

 Best Time to Visit Kerala

The best season to visit Kerala is October to March, when days are pleasant and dry. The monsoon months (June to September) transform the state into a green haven, perfect for Ayurveda retreats and wellness therapy.
Hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad stay cool throughout the year, while beach destinations such as Kovalam and Varkala enjoy gentle sea breezes.

 Currency, Banks & Digital Payments

The currency used is the Indian Rupee (INR). US travelers can exchange dollars at airport counters, banks, or authorized money changers.
ATMs and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work across Kerala. Mobile payments like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm are common too.
Carrying small cash helps in rural shops and markets. Banking services are reliable and easy to use for foreign visitors.

 Visa & Entry Requirements for US Citizens

All travelers from the USA need an Indian e-Tourist Visa (e-Visa). You can apply online through the official e-Visa portal and receive approval within a few days. The visa is available for 30 days, one year, or five years, depending on your choice.

Print your approved e-Visa before boarding. Immigration counters at Cochin, Trivandrum, and Calicut airports are well organized and visitor friendly.

 Getting Around Kerala

Transportation in Kerala is safe and well maintained. Visitors can choose from chauffeur-driven cars, air-conditioned buses, and trains linking all major towns.
Within cities, auto-rickshaws make short rides easy.

For unique experiences, try a houseboat cruise in Alleppey, a heritage walk in Fort Kochi, or a train ride through the tea gardens of Munnar.

 Top Tourist Destinations in Kerala

Kerala offers a wide range of destinations that appeal to all travelers:

• Kochi (Fort Kochi) – Historic streets, art cafés, and colonial buildings.

• Munnar – Tea plantations and misty valleys for honeymoon getaways.

• Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary) – Nature trails and boat rides.

• Alleppey & Kumarakom – Famous for Kerala backwater houseboats.

• Kovalam & Varkala – Beautiful beaches and Ayurveda resorts.

• Wayanad – Waterfalls, caves, and spice gardens.

• Trivandrum – Home to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and cultural sites.

• Athirappilly Waterfalls, Bekal Fort, and Marari Beach – Perfect for relaxation.

Each location adds depth to your Kerala tour package from USA, combining nature, culture, and heritage.

 Ayurveda, Yoga & Wellness Experiences

Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda. Wellness seekers from the USA visit to experience authentic therapies and detox retreats. Centers in Kovalam, Trivandrum, and Palakkad offer personalized Ayurvedic and yoga programs guided by qualified doctors.
Combining a few days of Ayurveda with your Kerala holiday from America creates a truly restorative journey.

 Culture, People & Cuisine

Kerala’s people are warm and welcoming. English is widely spoken, and communication is easy for American tourists and NRIs visiting India.

The local language is Malayalam, though Hindi and Tamil are understood in most areas.
Food lovers enjoy Kerala’s distinct cuisine featuring coconut, rice, and fresh spices. Must-try dishes include appam with stew, Kerala sadya, and karimeen pollichathu. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available.

 Safety & Travel Tips for US Visitors

Kerala is among the safest states in India. Tourists should still observe basic safety measures such as keeping valuables secure and staying hydrated.
A few smart tips can enhance your trip:

• Pack light cotton clothes and comfortable footwear.

• Drink bottled water and use sunscreen and insect repellent.

• Respect local traditions and dress modestly in temples.

• Buy travel insurance that covers flights and medical needs.

Friendly locals and clean cities make Kerala a relaxing and memorable destination for travelers from the United States.

 Why Choose Kerala for Your Next Holiday from the USA

Kerala combines everything that American travelers seek – culture, wellness, comfort, and natural beauty. Its eco-friendly tourism policies and safe environment make it ideal for family vacations, honeymoon packages, and luxury holidays from USA to South India.

Every visit to Kerala creates a lasting bond with its people and land.

Frequently Asked Questions – Kerala Travel Information for Tourists from the USA

❓ 1. How can I travel from the USA to Kerala?

There are no direct flights from the USA to Kerala. However, many one-stop connections are available on airlines such as Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, United Airlines, and Lufthansa. Most flights depart from New York (JFK or EWR), Chicago (ORD), or San Francisco (SFO) and connect via Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi before reaching Cochin (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), or Calicut (CCJ).

❓ 2. What is the best time of year to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit is October to March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to September) brings refreshing rain and is perfect for Ayurveda and wellness retreats. Summer months (April–May) are warmer but good for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.

❓ 3. Do I need a visa to travel to Kerala from the USA?

Yes. Travelers from the United States need an Indian e-Tourist Visa (e-Visa). You can apply online through the official Indian e-Visa portal. Approval usually takes a few days, and the visa can be valid for 30 days, one year, or five years. Print a copy of the approved visa and carry it during your journey.

❓ 4. What currency is used in Kerala, and how can I exchange money?

Kerala uses the Indian Rupee (INR). You can exchange US Dollars at airports, banks, or authorized money changers. ATMs are widely available, and Visa and Mastercard cards work across the state. Digital payment apps such as Google Pay are also popular.

❓ 5. Is English widely spoken in Kerala?

Yes. English is commonly spoken in Kerala, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. The local language is Malayalam, but most people understand English and Hindi, so communication is rarely a problem for American visitors.

❓ 6. How safe is Kerala for tourists from the USA?

Kerala is one of the safest states in India for travelers. Locals are friendly, and crime against tourists is rare. Basic precautions—such as safeguarding valuables and avoiding deserted areas late at night—are always wise. The region is politically stable and traveler-friendly.

❓ 7. How can I travel around Kerala?

You can get around easily by private car with a driver. For unique experiences, try houseboat cruises, cycling tours, or heritage walks.

❓ 8. What are the must-see places in Kerala?

Top destinations include Kochi (Fort Kochi), Munnar Hills, Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary), Alleppey backwaters, Kumarakom backwaters, Wayanad Hills, Kovalam beach, Varkala beach, Marari Beach, and Athirappilly Waterfalls. Each place offers a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.

❓ 9. What is Kerala’s climate like?

Kerala has a tropical climate—warm and humid most of the year. Temperatures usually range between 75 °F and 90 °F (24 °C–32 °C). The western coast stays humid, while the hill regions remain cool and pleasant.

❓ 10. What are some travel tips for first-time visitors from the USA?

• Book early to get the best flight fares.

• Carry light cotton clothes and a hat or cap for sun protection.

• Drink bottled water and avoid raw street food.

• Use sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

• Keep small cash for tips and local shopping.

• Respect local customs when visiting temples or villages.

❓ 11. Is Kerala suitable for family trips and honeymoons?

Absolutely. Kerala is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers. Its peaceful beaches, scenic houseboats, wildlife sanctuaries, and luxury resorts make it a wonderful destination for family vacations and romantic honeymoons.

❓ 12. Can I find Ayurveda or yoga retreats in Kerala?

Yes. Kerala is world-famous for Ayurveda and yoga. Many resorts in Kovalam, Trivandrum, Palakkad, and Wayanad offer authentic treatments, detox programs, and yoga sessions guided by trained practitioners.

❓ 13. What kind of food can I expect in Kerala?

Kerala cuisine features mild spices, coconut flavors, and fresh seafood. Must-try dishes include appam with stew, Kerala sadya (traditional feast), and karimeen pollichathu. Vegetarian and vegan meals are easily available across the state.

❓ 14. What should I pack for a trip to Kerala?

Pack light cotton clothing, comfortable shoes, rain gear (if visiting during monsoon), power adapters, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. For hill stations, include a light jacket since evenings can be cool.

❓ 15. Are medical facilities good in Kerala?

Yes. Kerala has excellent healthcare facilities, including modern hospitals and pharmacies. Major tourist areas have quick access to doctors, and many resorts offer on-call medical assistance.

❓ 16. How can I stay connected in Kerala?

You can buy a local SIM card (Airtel, BSNL, Jio, or Vi) using your passport at the airport or in any mobile store. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafés, and airports. Mobile coverage is strong even in smaller towns.

❓ 17. Do I need travel insurance for my trip?

Travel insurance is highly recommended. It covers flight delays, lost baggage, and medical emergencies. Many US-based insurance companies offer India coverage—check before you travel.

❓ 18. What souvenirs can I buy from Kerala?

Popular souvenirs include spices, tea, coffee, handmade soaps, coir products, and traditional handicrafts. You can also buy Kasavu sarees and Ayurvedic oils as memorable gifts.