6 best places to visit during monsoon in Kerala
Kerala during monsoon is one of the best places to visit in India. Known as the ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala in July & August is one of the best season to visit Kerala. Sizzling appams under misty clouds, hot cups of tea in the tea valleys of Munnar and walking along the white sands of beaches in Kerala, rainy season in Kerala is more than just a season.
Monsoon in Kerala is divided into two parts. The first rains in Kerala start from June and the second in mid-October to late November. Although there are many tourist attractions in Kerala, let’s narrow down the best places to visit in Kerala in July & August.
Table of Content
1) Enjoy the serenity of Mountains in Wayanad
Wayanad in Kerala is touted as one of the top hill stations in South India. Wayanad is like a piece of heaven and the monsoon in Wayanad is filled with the aroma of tea estates. The Tea town in Wayanad is a must-visit place in Kerala to explore the history and culture of tea. In case you’re a wildlife enthusiast, visit the wildlife sanctuaries of Wayanad or head up for a jungle trek. If you want to explore the monsoon tourism in Kerala, then Wayanad is your calling.
- Days for a holiday in Wayanad – 2 to 3 days
- Places to visit in Wayanad in monsoon – Tea Town, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak and Edakkal Caves
- Things to do in Wayanad – Jungle treks, cave exploring and tea plantation tour.
2) Cleanse yourself on the beaches of Varkala
The beaches of Kerala are known for their secludedness and the serenity they offer. During the monsoons in Kerala, the beaches transform into resplendent heavens. The beaches of Varkala are overlooked by the green hills and the monsoon waves make them perfect for surfing and other adventure activities. Explore some cozy cafes or indulge in an ayurvedic retreat in Kerala, Varkala is perfect for monsoon tourism in Kerala.
- Days for a holiday in Varkala – 1 to 2 days
- Places to visit in Varkala in monsoon – Varkala Beach, Edava Beach, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Kappil Lake
- Things to do in Varkala – Water sports, Kayaking, and exploring marine life
3) Relax in the backwaters of Alleppey
Alleppey in rainy season is a must-visit destination in Kerala. Monsoon is the best time to visit Alleppey as one can enjoy authentic Kerala food in a houseboat in Alappuzha backwaters. Nothing is better than cruising around in a houseboat in Kerala and watching a snake-boat race in Alleppey backwaters. Alleppey has plenty of lush green space to unwind on a relaxing holiday in Kerala.
- Days for a holiday in Alleppey – 3 to 4 days
- Places to visit in Alleppey in monsoon – Alappuzha lighthouse, Alleppey backwaters, Sree Subramanya Swami Temple and St. Mary’s Forane Church
- Things to do in Alleppy – Enjoy Kerala’s cuisine, stay in a houseboat, cycle ride or hiking and explore the beaches of Alleppey
Looking for a stay in Alleppey backwaters and also has ayurvedic retreats? Look no further than The Rain – Alleppey by StayVista.
4) Enjoy an Ayurvedic wellness retreat in Kovalam
With the tropical weather of Kerala, monsoon season is the best time for a wellness retreat in Kerala. Kovalam is the best place to visit in monsoon in Kerala if you’re looking to rejuvenate your senses. Jatayu’s Earth Centre is located a short distance from Kovalam and is a must-visit destination in Kerala. Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture, Kovalam is ideal for a family vacation in India. Kovalam is also known for its three adjacent crescent beaches and is home to the best beaches of Kerala.
- Days for holiday in Kovalam – 2 to 3 days
- Places to visit in Kovalam in monsoon – Somatheeram in Kovalam, Jatayu Earth’s Centre, Samudra Beach, and Kerala Arts & Craft Village
- Things to do in Kovalam – Ayurvedic massage and spa, sunbathing, surfing, and exploring lighthouses.
In case you want to discover more wellness retreats in Kerala, check out these wellness retreats in Kerala in monsoon season.
5) Experience the most serene hill station of India – Munnar
Munnar is an idyllic place to visit in Kerala to experience the magic of the rainy season. The quaint hill station in Kerala famed for its famous Mattupetty lake near the dam. Perched at a height of 1500m, the tea estates of Munnar are an ideal picnic spot in Kerala. Walking across the tea gardens and enjoying a fresh cup of chai from the tea estates, makes this an ideal romantic getaway in India. This is one of the best tourist places in Kerala during monsoons.
- Days for holiday in Munnar – 1 to 2 days
- Places to visit in Munnar in monsoon – Idukki hills, Rose Garden, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park and Attukad Waterfalls
- Things to do in Munnar – Stroll across the tea estates, admire the waterfalls of Kerala, trout fishing and tea plantation tour
6) Indulge and celebrate Onam in Kochi
One of the major reasons why people like spending their monsoons in Kerala is because of the Onam festival. This 10-day long monsoon festival in Kerala features vibrant processions and has been part of monsoon tourism in Kerala for years. The rich cultural heritage of Kerala is in full display and don’t be surprised to find decorated elephants, flowers and elaborate feasts. The Onam Sadhya is renowned for its iconic flavours and there are many villas and homestays in Kerala that offer them as part of its stay experience.
Kochi or Cochin in Kerala by the Periyar river is iconic for celebrating Onam. Witnessing Onam in Kochi is an ethereal experience and is a must do thing in Kerala. One of the best places to visit in monsoon in Kerala is the Thrikkakara Temple and is visited by pilgrims every year during Onam. An ideal destination for monsoon tourism in Kerala, Onam in Kochi should definitely be added to your itinerary for Kerala.
- Days for a holiday in Kochi – 4 to 5 days
- Places to visit in Kochi in monsoon – Fort Kochi, Periyar River, Kerala Kathakali Centre, Thrikkakara Temple and Jew Town
- Things to do in Kochi – Indulge in Onam Sadhya, Enjoy a Kathakali Performance, Witness the Onam procession a.k.a Athachamayam
Now that you’ve packed your bags (and umbrellas!), booked your tickets, let’s narrow down a few picture perfect villas & homestays in Kerala to make it easier for you!
Top Homestays in Kerala
The Periyar Palace – Kochi
Decked by the Periyar river in Kerala, The Periyar Palace is a majestic property that pays homage to the culture and backwaters of Kerala. Painted royal ivory hues and a sprawling lawn by the riverside, a vintage car, and gazebo this villa in Kerala is perfect for family and large groups. Enjoy Onam Sadhya in Kochi at this villa in Kerala.
Shalom Villa – Alleppey
This homestay in Alleppey is surrounded by tall, lush green trees and includes Greece-inspired interiors. A beautiful garden with sounds of crashing waves and a swimming pool under the warm embrace of trees, Shalom Villa is the perfect homestay in Kerala.
Catherine Cottage
In the heart of Idukki, this heritage stay in Kerala boasts timeless architecture and is adorned in neutral hues. A beautiful verandah for enjoying greenery, lush open lawn, and intricately designed spaces, Catherine Cottage is the perfect harmony of old-school charm and modern allure.
If you want to explore more such serene and tranquil surroundings during the rains, explore more such offbeat monsoon destinations in India which will guarantee you a relaxing break!
