Kerala

India

Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," captivates with its serene backwaters, lush green landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, Ayurvedic wellness, and rich historical heritage.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$25/day
Mid-range$50/day
Luxury$250/day

Known For

Malabar CoastTrivandrumKochibackwatersspicesSouth India

ЁЯЗоЁЯЗ│ Country Information: India

CapitalNew Delhi
CurrencyIndian rupee (тВ╣)
Language Hindi , English, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, Urdu, Kannada, Odia, Malayalam, Punjabi, Assamese
Phone Code+91
Electricity230V (Type C, D, M)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is common in restaurants (5
  • 10% or rounding up), for hotel staff, and drivers (small amounts)
  • For guides, a tip of 200
  • 500 INR per day is common

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but less so in rural areas
  • It's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors and rural areas
  • There isn't a significant black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Remove shoes before entering temples, mosques, or homes
  • Greet elders with respect, often by touching their feet
  • Eating with your right hand is customary, especially when eating Indian food

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Homosexuality was decriminalized in 2018. While acceptance is growing, LGBTQ+ individuals may still face societal challenges, particularly in rural areas.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age varies by state, generally 18 or 21
  • Drug laws are very strict, and possession of even small amounts of drugs can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

  • Public display of affection can be frowned upon
  • Photography near government buildings or military installations may be restricted
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites

Common Phrases

NoNahi (nah-hee) рдирд╣реАрдВ
YesHaan (hah-n) рд╣рд╛рдБ
HelloNamaste (nah-mah-stay) рдирдорд╕реНрддреЗ
PleaseKripya (krip-yah) рдХреГрдкрдпрд╛
Excuse meKshama Kijiye (kshuh-maa key-jee-yeh) рдХреНрд╖рдорд╛ рдХреАрдЬрд┐рдП
Thank youDhanyavaad (dhun-yah-vahd) рдзрдиреНрдпрд╡рд╛рдж

Climate

Kerala is a state in Southern India, characterized by a tropical climate with significant monsoonal influence.

Climate Zone: Equatorial Monsoon

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Sadya must_try

A traditional vegetarian banquet served on a banana leaf, featuring up to 28 dishes. This grand feast includes items like Avial, Thoran, Sambar, and P

Karimeen Pollichathu regional_speciality

A delicacy from the backwater regions, this dish uses Karimeen (pearl spot fish) marinated in spices. The fish is wrapped in a banana leaf and roasted

Puttu and Kadala Curry breakfast

Puttu is a steamed rice cake typically cylindrical, layered with grated coconut. It is traditionally paired with Kadala Curry, a spicy curry made with

Malabar Biryani regional_speciality

A fragrant and gently spiced rice dish that originates from North Kerala (Malabar region). It is cooked with ghee, fried onions, and juicy meat, and i

Appam with Stew breakfast

Appam is a soft, bowl-shaped pancake with lace-edged sides, made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It is typically served with a creamy, mi

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

ЁЯФ┤ Must Book in Advance

Alleppey/Kumarakom Backwater Houseboat Stay Accommodation
Book 1тАУ3 months in advance

Houseboats are the iconic Kerala experience and supply is limited, especially for reputable operators and specific dates, leading to sell-outs and higher prices if booked last minute.

ЁЯЯб Recommended to Book Ahead

Accommodation in Peak Season Destinations (Munnar, Alleppey, Kovalam) Accommodation
Book 3 weeks to 2 months in advance

Popular hotels and resorts, particularly in high-demand areas and during the winter months (Oct-Mar), fill up quickly, leaving fewer options and higher prices for late bookers.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Guided Activities/Trekking tour_or_activity
Book 1 week to 1 month in advance

Activities like the Border Hiking or Periyar Tiger Trail have strict limits on participant numbers and time slots, which are popular and can sell out, especially during high season.

Fun Facts

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