Kerala travel tips - 


Money - While traveling in Kerala, there is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that visitors can keep with them.

Banks - All nationalized banks are open for transaction from 10:00 to 14:00 hrs on weekdays and 10:00 to 12:00 hrs on Saturdays with Sundays being holidays . Most of the private banks provide transaction services between 8 AM to 8 PM.

Credit Cards -Most hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and malls honor major credit cards.

Currency -The Indian Rupee (INR) is the prevalent currency in Kerala.

Best times to visit - The best time to visit Kerala is during the months of October to April and during monsoons, starting from June, for Ayurveda rejuvenation programs. Between the months of December – February, the weather is hot, sunny and dry with average 30 degree celsius (86 F) temperatures. You’ll find the biggest crowds from end December to mid January. From March the temperature and humidity increases in the build up to the monsoon, which arrives with heavy rains in June. This is considered the best time for Ayurvedic treatments, but not for beach holidays.

Clothes and accessories – Loose cotton outfits, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen lotion. Advisable to carry an umbrella as well. Wear soft cotton clothing on the beaches. For the hill stations carry light warm clothing as the nights can get chilly. Winters on the Western Ghat mountains are cold.

Food - Since Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, all major restaurants and hotels offer a variety of cuisines including continental, Chinese, Indian, and traditional Kerala dishes.

Drugs -Possession of drugs is a criminal offence and punishable under law.

Dress code in temple -Footwear inside the temple and entry into the sanctum sanctorum is prohibited in all temples. The customs and codes of conduct and dress in temples across Kerala vary. Many temples do not allow access to non-Hindus. Shirts for men and pants are banned from some temples and allowed in some others. Where they are forbidden, men wear sarongs and women, in saris, half-saris or long skirts.

Nudity - Nudity is not allowed in public places nor is it permitted on the beaches. All visitors, but particularly women should dress modestly when travelling in Kerala. It is fine to wear bikinis at the beach resorts, but away from there you must wear loose clothes that cover your shoulders and knees to avoid stares and offence. On remote beaches and around the backwaters  it’s best to cover up to swim by wearing a tshirt and sarong or a pair of long shorts.

Ayurvedic treatment- Should you wish to avail of treatment, ensure that you check in to an authorized center.

Wildlife sanctuaries - Prior permission has to be obtained from the administrative authority of the sanctuary before visiting.

Smoking - Smoking is banned in public places of Kerala.

Permission for photography – Advisable to check at locations  before you start taking pictures.

Tipping - A fair tip would be around 100 rupees per person per day if you are satisfied. If you have had a long journey, you could tip the driver a little extra If you use the services have the same driver/ guide for your entire stay the tip is best offered at the end of your tour.