Welcome to the land of lush greenery, sparkling backwaters, and intriguing culture. As you prepare for your enchanting journey to Kerala, we’ve compiled some indispensable travel tips to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience in this picturesque Indian state.

Handling Your Finances

Worried about carrying foreign currency? Be at ease. There’s no limit to the amount of foreign currency visitors can bring into Kerala, offering you a flexible financial experience.

Banking Hours

Navigating through a new place’s banking hours can sometimes be tricky. But fret not! Banks in Kerala are operational from 10:00 – 15:30 hrs. on weekdays and on the first and third Saturdays. You might want to mark your calendar for the second and fourth Saturdays as they’re observed as holidays.

Cash or Card?

If you’re a card person, you’re in luck. Major hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers in Kerala honor most of the widely-used credit cards. It’s convenience at your fingertips!

Tuning into Kerala Time

Planning to call back home or need to keep up with your work in a different time zone? Here are the time differences you need to know (Hours fast (+), slow (-) on IST):

USA: -10.30, Germany: -4.30, Canada: -10.30, France: -4.30, Australia: +4.30, Spain: -4.30, UAE: -1.30, UK: -5:30

When to Visit Kerala

Deciding when to visit Kerala largely depends on what you want to experience. The high season, spanning from September to May, offers great weather, while the monsoon rejuvenation program, from June to August, presents an opportunity to enjoy Kerala’s rain-washed beauty.

Travel Kit Essentials

Given the tropical climate of Kerala, pack your bags with light cotton outfits, a hat, sunglasses, and don’t forget the sunscreen. After all, being sun-smart is always in season!

Drug Laws

Keep in mind, Kerala has strict drug laws. Heavy penalties, including imprisonment, await those found in possession of narcotic drugs.

Experience Authentic Ayurveda

When in Kerala, a visit to an Ayurveda center is a must. However, make sure you opt for centers that are classified or approved by the Department of Tourism to ensure you receive authentic treatment.

Food Fiesta

Kerala offers a culinary journey you don’t want to miss. Most standard restaurants serve an array of cuisines, including Continental, Chinese, Indian, and, of course, traditional Kerala food. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Emergency Contact Numbers

In case of emergencies, here are the numbers you need to dial:

Police control room: 100, Fire station: 101, Ambulance: 102, 108. For specific travel scenarios, the police helpline numbers are:

Highway Alert Number: 9846 100 100, Railway Alert Number: 9846 200 100

Official Police Website: www.keralapolice.org

Temple Etiquette

Respect for local customs is crucial. Some temples in Kerala don’t permit non-Hindus. Strict dress codes are followed, and footwear is usually left outside the temple premises.

Public Behaviour

Maintaining decorum in public spaces is important. Practices like nudity on beaches, smoking in public places, and public display of affection like hugging or kissing aren’t acceptable in Kerala. It’s also customary to remove your shoes before entering most Kerala houses.

Getting to Kerala

Kerala, a narrow strip of land in Southwestern India, is a paradise accessible by air, train, and bus.

Air: Kerala has four main airports located at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode, and Kannur, serving both domestic and international flights.

Trains: Kerala is well-connected by trains, with about 200 railway stations. Super-fast and express trains are available for easy commute.

Road: Kerala boasts well-maintained roads, connecting it with neighboring South Indian states. Buses, tourist taxis, and autos are common modes of transport.

Water: Experience the charm of Kerala’s backwaters with routine ship services from Cochin (Kochi) to the Lakshadweep Islands.

Pre-departure Tips

Before heading out, get a comprehensive health check-up. Ensure your passport is valid and sync your routine with the Indian time zone to tackle potential jet lag. Limit the amount of precious jewelry you carry for safety reasons.

Packing Clothes & Accessories

Light cotton and comfortable clothes are ideal for Kerala’s equitable climate. For hill stations like Munnar or Thekkady, pack some woolens. Don’t forget your sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen for those laid-back days on Kerala’s beautiful beaches. Happy Travelling!