About Kerala
Kerala stretches along the Western Ghats in the east and the Arabian Sea in the west, offering an extraordinary diversity of landscapes in a compact area. The state is famous for its extensive network of backwaters — interconnected canals, rivers, and lakes — best explored by traditional houseboat (kettuvallam). Kerala's cuisine, Ayurvedic heritage, classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, and wildlife sanctuaries make it one of Asia's premier travel destinations. The state enjoys a tropical climate with two monsoon seasons annually.
Quick Overview
Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
Largest City: Thiruvananthapuram
Population: 35 million
Languages: Malayalam, English, Tamil, Kannada
Currency: Indian Rupee
Time Zone: IST (UTC+5:30)
Explore Kerala by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Discover the top 0 must-see destinations in Kerala, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Recommended Itineraries for Kerala
Plan your perfect Kerala trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Kerala Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Kerala, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Kerala
- Days 1-2: Kerala city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Kerala
- Days 1-3: Kerala comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Kerala, departure
Where to Stay in Kerala
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Kerala offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($50-100)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($100-200)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($300+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
A landmark heritage hotel on Willingdon Island with sweeping views of Kochi Harbour, featuring colonial architecture, two swimming pools, and acclaimed seafood restaurant Bay Walk. Ideal base for Fort Kochi explorations.
CGH Earth Brunton Boatyard
A boutique luxury hotel set in a 19th-century boat building facility in Fort Kochi, blending colonial heritage with modern comforts. Features three pools, seafood-focused dining, and stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Chinese fishing nets.
Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra
A clifftop luxury retreat of traditional Kerala heritage homes (tharavad) with private beach access, infinity pools, and Kerala Ayurveda spa. One of Kerala's most romantic properties, with panoramic Arabian Sea views.
Spice Village (CGH Earth)
An eco-luxury resort adjacent to Periyar Tiger Reserve, with 52 cottages styled after tribal homes of the Mannan tribe. Features an organic spice garden, elephant safaris, and genuine wildlife immersion.
Where to Eat in Kerala
Discover the culinary delights of Kerala, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Dhe Puttu
Famous for its eponymous puttu (steamed rice cylinders) prepared in dozens of varieties — vegetable puttu, egg puttu, chicken puttu. National Geographic named puttu the best breakfast in the world. Always crowded with locals.
Paragon Restaurant
Kozhikode's most legendary restaurant, established in 1939. Paragon is an institution for Malabar cuisine — particularly the Malabar biryani, ghee rice with seafood, and their signature kallummakkaya (mussels) dishes. Always packed.
Kashi Art Cafe
A beloved art gallery-cafe in Fort Kochi serving filter coffee, fresh juices, and a mix of continental and Kerala fusion dishes in a relaxed colonial courtyard setting. A Fort Kochi institution for art lovers.
Malabar Junction
The restaurant at the Malabar House boutique hotel, serving inventive Kerala-European fusion cuisine in a colonial garden setting. One of Fort Kochi's finest dining experiences, with fresh seafood as the centerpiece.
Fusion Bay
Celebrated for its Kerala Syrian fish delicacies — particularly the pollichathu style of cooking fish wrapped in banana leaf and grilled. Also excellent for fish in mango curry and spicy prawn preparations.
Shala Restaurant
A tiny, beloved restaurant run by three housewives serving only 30 guests at a time, located near the Jewish Synagogue in Mattancherry. The food is home-style Kerala cooking — long queues attest to its quality.
Getting Around Kerala
Kerala has a well-developed transportation network combining four international airports, an extensive coastal railway line, KSRTC buses, and — uniquely — an extensive water transport network of ferries and houseboats that are essential for exploring the backwaters.
Budget Breakdown for Kerala
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-40 | $50-120 | $150+ |
| Food (per day) | $10-25 | $30-60 | $80+ |
| Transportation | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Activities | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Daily Total | $50-100 | $100-200 | $300+ |
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Best Season: Year-round
Avoid: None
Essential Travel Tips for Kerala
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is Year-round. None may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Kerala?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Kerala for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Kerala?
For a comprehensive Kerala experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Kerala expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $50-100 per day, mid-range $100-200, and luxury $300+.