Kerala, known as ‘God’s Own Country,’ is a stunning destination that draws visitors throughout the year. If you’re thinking about heading to Kerala in May, you might be curious if it’s a good time to go. May falls in the pre-monsoon period, bringing a blend of warm, humid days and some refreshing rain, which makes it a great time to discover Kerala’s beautiful scenery, hill stations, beaches, and backwaters.
This guide has got you covered for your May trip to Kerala! We’ll discuss the weather, highlight the best spots to visit, suggest activities, share festival info, travel tips, and everything else you should know.
Weather in Kerala During May
May is the peak summer month in Kerala, where you can expect temperatures between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F) on the coast and a cooler 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in the hills. Humidity is on the rise, especially in coastal areas. But the good news is that occasional pre-monsoon showers provide a nice break, making the evenings feel much nicer.
Best time of the day to explore: Mornings before 12:00 Pm and evenings after 3:00 Pm are cooler, making them ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala in May
1. Munnar – The Serene Hill Station
Munnar is the perfect place to chill out during the summer, offering a refreshing climate, lovely tea gardens, amazing waterfalls, and views that will leave you speechless. Here are some of the top attractions to visit:
- Eravikulam National Park – Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
- Mattupetty Dam – A scenic spot for boating.
- Top Station – Offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
- Attukal Waterfalls – A great place to relax amidst nature.
2. Thekkady – Wildlife and Adventure
If you’re looking for adventure, Thekkady is the place to be! The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers boat safaris where you can catch a glimpse of elephants, deer, and tons of birds. Plus, there’s trekking, bamboo rafting, and spice plantation tours to check out.
3. Alleppey – The Venice of the East
A visit to Kerala isn’t really finished until you’ve explored the backwaters of Alleppey. May is a great time to reserve a houseboat and cruise through those serene waters, enveloped by coconut groves.
4. Wayanad – The Green Paradise
If you’re passionate about nature and adventure, Wayanad is a perfect spot in May. Don’t miss these highlights:
- Edakkal Caves – Prehistoric rock carvings and trekking.
- Soochipara Waterfalls – A refreshing retreat.
- Chembra Peak – A famous trekking destination with a heart-shaped lake.
5. Kovalam & Varkala – Beach Getaways
May might be hot, but the evenings at Kovalam and Varkala beaches are super nice. You can chill on the sand, dive into some water sports, or unwind with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage.
6. Athirapally Waterfalls – The Niagara of India
May is a fantastic time to explore Athirapally Waterfalls, the largest in Kerala. The pre-monsoon rains make it even more beautiful and dramatic!
Things to Do in Kerala in May
Take a Houseboat Cruise – Enjoy the peaceful backwaters in Alleppey or Kumarakom.
Go for a Trek – Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady offer great trekking trails.
Explore Tea Plantations – Visit tea gardens and factories in Munnar.
Experience Wildlife – Go on a safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Enjoy Ayurvedic Therapy – Get rejuvenating treatments at a wellness resort.
Savor Kerala Cuisine – Try traditional dishes like Appam with Stew, Puttu & Kadala Curry, and Kerala Sadya.
Festivals and Events in Kerala in May
Looking to experience the vibrant culture of Kerala? May is the month to do it! Here are some must-see events:
Thrissur Pooram – A grand temple festival with decorated elephants, fireworks, and cultural performances.
Edathua Perunnal – A famous church festival celebrated with processions and prayers.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kerala in May
Stay Hydrated – Carry water bottles to avoid dehydration in the summer heat.
Wear Light Clothing – Choose cotton clothes to stay comfortable.
Use Sunscreen & Hats – Protect yourself from the sun when exploring outdoors.
Book Accommodations in Advance – May is not peak season, but popular hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad get booked quickly.
Be Ready for Rain – Carry an umbrella or raincoat for sudden pre-monsoon showers.
Plan Sightseeing Accordingly – Explore in the morning or evening to avoid the midday heat.
May is a perfect time for a Kerala trip, offering a unique blend of summer thrills and the beauty of the approaching monsoon. You can relax in the hill stations, explore the backwaters, or immerse yourself in the local culture. With some smart planning, you can enjoy a wonderful vacation in God’s Own Country!
Plan your Kerala trip now and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
