Located on the southwestern coast of India, Kerala is a state known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. The state is often referred to as “God’s Own Country” due to its picturesque landscapes, serene backwaters, and lush green forests. Kerala is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. When it comes to planning a trip to Kerala, timing is everything. The best time to visit Kerala depends on various factors, including the weather, festivals, and tourist season. In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Kerala in June and what you can expect during this time.
Weather in Kerala in June
Kerala’s climate is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C throughout the year. June is the beginning of the southwest monsoon season in Kerala, which brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. The average temperature in June is around 28°C, with an average rainfall of 800 mm. The weather in Kerala in June is perfect for those who love rain and want to experience the state’s lush green landscapes.
However, the heavy rainfall and strong winds can make traveling difficult, especially in the hill stations and coastal areas. It’s essential to check the weather forecast before planning your trip to Kerala in June. You can expect occasional thunderstorms and heavy downpours, so it’s crucial to pack accordingly.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Kerala in June
Pros:
- The weather is perfect for those who love rain and want to experience Kerala’s lush green landscapes.
- The monsoon season brings a sense of calm and serenity to the state, making it an ideal time for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- The prices of accommodations and tourist attractions are relatively lower during the off-season, making it a budget-friendly option.
- The state’s waterfalls, rivers, and backwaters are at their best during the monsoon season, making it a great time for water activities.
Cons:
- The heavy rainfall and strong winds can make traveling difficult, especially in the hill stations and coastal areas.
- The roads and highways may be slippery and flooded, making it challenging to drive or walk.
- The weather can be unpredictable, with occasional thunderstorms and heavy downpours.
- The state’s tourist attractions and public transportation may be affected by the heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala in June
Kerala has a lot to offer, even during the monsoon season. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kerala in June:
Backwaters of Alleppey
The backwaters of Alleppey are a must-visit during the monsoon season. The lush green landscapes and serene waters create a perfect setting for a relaxing boat ride. You can take a houseboat tour or rent a kayak to explore the backwaters.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to spot wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and birds. The monsoon season brings a lot of greenery to the sanctuary, making it an ideal time for wildlife spotting. (See Also: Best Time To Visit Fjords In Norway? Unforgettable Experiences)
Wayanad Hills
The Wayanad Hills are a popular destination for trekking and hiking. The monsoon season brings a lot of rain to the hills, making the trails slippery and challenging. However, the scenery is breathtaking, with lush green forests and waterfalls.
Munnar Tea Plantations
The Munnar Tea Plantations are a must-visit during the monsoon season. The tea plants are at their best during this time, with the monsoon rains bringing a lot of greenery to the plantations.
Things to Do in Kerala in June
Kerala has a lot to offer, even during the monsoon season. Here are some of the things to do in Kerala in June:
Water Activities
- Take a boat ride in the backwaters of Alleppey.
- Go kayaking or canoeing in the backwaters.
- Take a boat tour to spot dolphins and other marine life.
- Go fishing in the backwaters or in the ocean.
Trekking and Hiking
- Trek to the top of the Wayanad Hills.
- Hike through the lush green forests of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Trek to the top of the Munnar Hills.
- Hike through the tea plantations of Munnar.
Culture and Heritage
- Attend a traditional Kerala dance performance.
- Visit a traditional Kerala temple or church.
- Take a cooking class to learn about traditional Kerala cuisine.
- Attend a traditional Kerala festival or celebration.
Accommodation in Kerala in June
Kerala has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kerala in June:
Backwaters of Alleppey
- The Fern Hillside Resort.
- The Leela Kempinski.
- The Lake Palace Hotel.
- The Coconut Lagoon.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- The Spice Tree Resort.
- The Elephant Court.
- The Periyar Houseboat.
- The Spice Village.
Wayanad Hills
- The Wayanad Wild.
- The Bamboo Grove.
- The Wayanad Heritage.
- The Green Magic.
Munnar Tea Plantations
- The Spice Tree Resort.
- The Tea Valley Resort.
- The Munnar Tea Plantations.
- The Tea Valley Homestay.
Food in Kerala in June
Kerala is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a mix of traditional Indian and Chinese flavors. Here are some of the best dishes to try in Kerala in June: (See Also: Best Time to Visit Pagudpud – Weather Wonders)
Traditional Kerala Dishes
- Sadya: a traditional Kerala meal served on a banana leaf.
- Puttu: a traditional Kerala breakfast dish made from steamed rice flour.
- Idiyappam: a traditional Kerala breakfast dish made from steamed rice noodles.
- Appam: a traditional Kerala breakfast dish made from fermented rice batter.
Seafood
- Fish fry: a popular seafood dish made from fried fish.
- Seafood curry: a popular seafood dish made from a variety of seafood and spices.
- Grilled fish: a popular seafood dish made from grilled fish.
- Seafood biryani: a popular seafood dish made from a variety of seafood and spices.
Recap
Kerala is a beautiful state with a lot to offer, even during the monsoon season. The best time to visit Kerala in June is during the monsoon season, when the weather is perfect for those who love rain and want to experience the state’s lush green landscapes. The pros of visiting Kerala in June include the perfect weather, lower prices, and a sense of calm and serenity. However, the cons include the heavy rainfall and strong winds, which can make traveling difficult. The best places to visit in Kerala in June include the backwaters of Alleppey, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the Wayanad Hills, and the Munnar Tea Plantations. The things to do in Kerala in June include water activities, trekking and hiking, and culture and heritage activities. The best places to stay in Kerala in June include the Fern Hillside Resort, the Leela Kempinski, the Lake Palace Hotel, and the Coconut Lagoon. The best dishes to try in Kerala in June include traditional Kerala dishes, seafood, and local specialties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to visit Kerala in June?
A: Yes, it is safe to visit Kerala in June. The state has a low crime rate, and the weather is generally calm and serene. However, it’s essential to take necessary precautions during the monsoon season, such as avoiding traveling during heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Q: What are the best places to visit in Kerala in June?
A: The best places to visit in Kerala in June include the backwaters of Alleppey, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the Wayanad Hills, and the Munnar Tea Plantations. These places offer a unique experience during the monsoon season, with lush green landscapes and serene waters.
Q: What are the things to do in Kerala in June?
A: The things to do in Kerala in June include water activities, trekking and hiking, and culture and heritage activities. You can take a boat ride in the backwaters, go kayaking or canoeing, or attend a traditional Kerala dance performance. (See Also: Best Time to Visit New Zealand for Southern Lights – Peak Season Adventures)
Q: What are the best places to stay in Kerala in June?
A: The best places to stay in Kerala in June include the Fern Hillside Resort, the Leela Kempinski, the Lake Palace Hotel, and the Coconut Lagoon. These resorts offer luxurious amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Q: What are the best dishes to try in Kerala in June?
A: The best dishes to try in Kerala in June include traditional Kerala dishes, seafood, and local specialties. You can try sadya, puttu, idiyappam, and appam, or indulge in seafood dishes like fish fry, seafood curry, grilled fish, and seafood biryani.