India, Asia
Kerala in April
Pre-monsoon thunderstorms. Thrissur Pooram often falls in April or May.
The straight answer
April is a quiet, good-value month to visit Kerala. Pre-monsoon thunderstorms. Thrissur Pooram often falls in April or May.
- Weather
- Hot and sticky, highs near 91F (33C), first storms
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What April is like in Kerala
April is hot and sticky, with highs near 91F (33C) and the first pre-monsoon thunderstorms rolling in, often in the late afternoon. Visitor numbers are low and hotels and houseboats are well discounted. Mornings can still be bright and fine, and the hills are the most comfortable place to be.
April suits budget travelers, festival seekers and people who do not mind heat, especially if they base themselves in Munnar or Thekkady. Families with small children and anyone after long beach days will be happier in the November to February window.
Make the most of April
What is especially good about Kerala this month.
Thrissur Pooram
Kerala's biggest temple festival often lands in April or May, with dozens of decorated elephants, huge percussion ensembles and fireworks. Crowds are enormous, so plan your viewing spot early.
Theyyam's final stretch
The ritual season runs into May in the north, so there is still time to see a performance around Kannur.
Low-season prices
Houseboats and beach hotels drop well below winter rates, so a nicer boat or a room with a view costs less.
What to pack for April
- A compact umbrella for sudden afternoon storms
- Quick-dry clothes and a spare shirt for the day bag
- Earplugs for Pooram fireworks and percussion
- Strong sunscreen and a cap
Our timing tip
Check the Malayalam calendar for this year's Thrissur Pooram date and book a Thrissur room months ahead, since the town fills completely.
Book Kerala for April.
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- Hotels for April
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in KeralaOpens a hotel search for Kerala in April, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in KeralaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in KeralaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Kerala for April. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in April
Theyyam season
Roughly late October or November into May
Ritual dance performances in village shrines in the Kannur and Kasaragod districts, often all night.
Thrissur Pooram
April or May, in the Malayalam month of Medam
Kerala's most spectacular temple festival, with dozens of caparisoned elephants, percussion ensembles, and fireworks. Huge crowds.
Things to do in Kerala
Houseboat on the backwaters
An overnight cruise from Alappuzha or Kumarakom. Choose a licensed operator and avoid the most congested stretches near Alappuzha in peak season.
Fort Kochi and Mattancherry
Walk the waterfront at sunset to see the Chinese fishing nets. The Paradesi Synagogue closes on Fridays and Saturdays and Jewish holidays.
Munnar tea country
Stay a night or two among the tea estates. Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri tahr, usually closes in February and March for calving.
Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady
Boat rides and guided walks. Tigers are rarely seen; elephants, bison, and birds are common. Book boat tickets online.
Varkala cliffs
Beach and cliff-top cafes. Swimming is only safe in the dry season; monsoon seas are dangerous.
A Kathakali performance
Short shows for visitors in Fort Kochi include the elaborate makeup session before the performance.
Beat the crowds
- Choose November or February for dry-season weather at lower prices than the December and January peak.
- Book houseboats on the quieter Kumarakom side of Vembanad Lake, or choose a day cruise on the smaller canals by canoe or kettuvallam.
- In Munnar, visit viewpoints and tea museums early in the morning, before the weekend traffic from Kochi arrives.
- Avoid Christmas to New Year for houseboats and beach hotels unless you book months ahead; prices can double.
Know before you go
- During the monsoon (June to September), swimming at beaches is dangerous and often banned, and some hill roads close due to landslides.
- Eravikulam National Park usually closes for the Nilgiri tahr calving season, roughly February to March. Check the dates before planning a visit.
- During Onam, many shops and offices close for several days, though hotels and tourist services stay open.
- Many Hindu temples in Kerala do not allow non-Hindus inside. Check before visiting and dress conservatively.
Kerala in April, quick answers
Is April a good time to visit Kerala?
April is a quiet, good-value month to visit Kerala. Pre-monsoon thunderstorms. Thrissur Pooram often falls in April or May.
What is the weather like in Kerala in April?
Hot and sticky, highs near 91F (33C), first storms.
Is Kerala crowded in April?
April is one of the quieter months in Kerala; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Kerala in April?
Theyyam season (roughly late october or november into may); Thrissur Pooram (april or may, in the malayalam month of medam).
Keep planning Kerala.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in April
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