Here, we give you a lowdown of the historical, cultural and adventurous activities and what are the best months to enjoy them. Additionally, you can veer off to the best deals on stay or read more about Kerala to help make up your mind. Before anything else, you should download our handy Price Alert Tool.
January-March
Theyyam – Even though the season for Theyyam, the ritualistic folk dance of Kerala, starts in December, it peaks during the first three months of the year. The northern areas of Bekal and Kannur are the best regions to see this. The practice is almost 1000 years old and involves masked, and sometimes entranced, dances by the designated community.
Attukal Pongal – The Attukal Pongal festival takes place in February or March, and marks a commemoration to Attukal Devi. The highlight of the festival is the preparation of Pongal (dish made of rice) made for thousands of people who congregate to the temple at Trivandrum to eat.
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April-June
Vishu – The Malayali New Year and harvest festival is one of the most awaited for families, where a clutch of offerings including flowers, sweets and a mirror – together called ‘Kani Kanal’ are offered to Lord Krishna. Payasam, a dessert, and Kanji (a rice gruel) are prepared on this day.
Thrissurpuram – Held in April or May, this 200 years old festival is an annual celebration in Thrissur, where caparisoned elephants from two different temples are the highlight. The final march of the elephants is to the Vadakkunnathan Shiva Temple.
July-September
Onam – The harvest festival of Kerala is a ten-day affair when the entire state bursts into activity. New clothing, rangolis in front of homes and the traditional meal – Onam sadya- are the highlights during this period.
Snake Boat Races – July kick starts the season of snake boat races in the Kerala backwaters. Champakulam, Nehru Trophy Boat Race and the Aranmula races have a feverish following. To see a team of hundred plus rowers on slim long boats battle on the otherwise serene waters is once in a lifetime experience.
October- December
Christmas – Kerala has a large number of Syrian and Roman Christians in the state, making Christmas one of the key festivals. This is also high tourist time, thanks to the relatively cool weather. Head to Fort Kochi during this period to enjoy the decked up street side cafes and carol singing in churches.
Kochi-Muziris Biennale – A regular on the roster now, the three-month long art festival features artists from around the world. Installations and interactive themed art all around Fort Kochi and Ernakulam are curated in a splendid manner.
When To Book Flights to Kerala
One is likely to arrive in Kerala at Cochin or Trivandrum, the two main airport nodes of the state. Book ahead of time to get the best deals, as Kerala is a major tourist destination. It’s best if you can book at least 24 weeks in advance. If not, you’re likely to find reasonably priced tickets even 9-16 weeks in advance.
Note: The best time to book data refers to the price paid against the average price for return flights for 1 person to
Frequent prices alterations and deals in fare prices can throw off your planning. It is best to plug in a Skyscanner Price Alert tool on your system.
