India, Asia
Kerala in May
Uncomfortable on the coast. The hills stay pleasant and cheap.
The straight answer
May is a month of real tradeoffs in Kerala. Uncomfortable on the coast. The hills stay pleasant and cheap.
- Weather
- Very humid, highs near 90F (32C), heavy pre-monsoon rain
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What May is like in Kerala
May is the most uncomfortable month on the Kerala coast. Humidity is heavy, highs sit near 90F (32C), and pre-monsoon downpours grow more frequent as the month goes on, often building in the afternoon. Crowds are thin and prices are low. Up in Munnar and Thekkady, the air is cooler and the green is coming back.
May suits hill-station lovers, budget travelers and anyone chasing Thrissur Pooram if it falls this month. Beach trips and long backwater days are hard work in this heat. If you can move your dates, November through February gives you dry weather everywhere.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Kerala this month.
Thrissur Pooram in some years
When the Malayalam month of Medam puts Pooram in May, Thrissur hosts its elephant processions and night fireworks. Check the year's date before you book.
Hill stations at their best value
Munnar and Thekkady stay pleasant while the coast swelters, and room rates are well below winter levels.
Last of the Theyyam season
Some north Kerala shrines still hold performances into May before the rains shut the season down.
What to pack for May
- A sturdy umbrella or light rain jacket
- Quick-dry, breathable clothing
- Anti-chafe balm and a small towel for the humidity
- Insect repellent, as mosquitoes pick up with the rain
Our timing tip
Book early May rather than late May, since the monsoon usually arrives around the start of June and the last week can already be very wet.
Book Kerala for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in KeralaOpens a hotel search for Kerala in May, 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 May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in May
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 May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Kerala?
May is a month of real tradeoffs in Kerala. Uncomfortable on the coast. The hills stay pleasant and cheap.
What is the weather like in Kerala in May?
Very humid, highs near 90F (32C), heavy pre-monsoon rain.
Is Kerala crowded in May?
May is one of the quieter months in Kerala; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Kerala in 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 May
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