Kerala Weather in September

In August, Kerala continues to experience the monsoon season, with intermittent rainfall and refreshing greenery dominating the landscape. The temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C, offering a cool and pleasant climate, perfect for nature lovers. The rains rejuvenate the backwaters, rivers and waterfalls, creating a serene and picturesque environment. Popular tourist destinations like Munnar, Wayanad and Alleppey showcase their best monsoon charm during this time.

Despite the rain, the state remains accessible and travellers can enjoy indoor activities like Ayurvedic treatments, cultural shows and houseboat stays. The monsoon also marks the lead-up to Onam, Kerala’s grand harvest festival, adding cultural vibrancy to the season.

Things to Do in Kerala in September

Enjoy a Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey
Experience the serenity of Kerala’s famous backwaters on a houseboat in Alleppey. The post-monsoon greenery and calm waters create a tranquil ambience. Relish freshly cooked local cuisine, relax on the deck and soak in the beauty of paddy fields and coconut groves.

A houseboat cruise in Alleppey is a unique experience because it offers a tranquil journey through Kerala’s iconic backwaters, showcasing the serene beauty of the region. Unlike conventional tours, this immersive adventure takes you through winding canals, lush paddy fields quaint villages, all while floating on a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat). The calm waters, fringed with coconut groves, create a picturesque setting, enhanced by the rhythmic sounds of nature. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared Kerala delicacies onboard and witness local life, from fishermen casting nets to villagers navigating canoes. The blend of luxury, culture and nature makes this experience truly unforgettable.

Visit Munnar’s Tea Plantations
Munnar’s tea gardens look enchanting in September, with mist-covered hills and fresh greenery after the rains. Explore tea estates, visit the Tea Museum and enjoy scenic viewpoints like Top Station. The weather is perfect for treks and nature walks.

Munnar’s tea plantations are unique because they offer an enchanting blend of natural beauty, rich history and intensely powerful experiences. Sprawling across undulating hills, the vibrant green tea estates create a mesmerizing landscape, often shrouded in mist, especially post-monsoon. Visitors can stroll through the plantations, learning about the art of tea cultivation while enjoying the crisp, cool air. The Tea Museum adds to the experience, showcasing the evolution of tea-making and its colonial roots. The serene environment, combined with panoramic views of the Western Ghats, makes Munnar’s tea plantations a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity amidst lush greenery.

Explore Thekkady’s Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Go for a boat safari on Periyar Lake in Thekkady to spot elephants, deer and exotic birds. The post-monsoon period is ideal for bamboo rafting, trekking and spice plantation tours in this lush, wildlife-rich region where every corner presents a unique thrill of a chance game watch.

Thekkady’s Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is unique for its striking blend of biodiversity and soothing scenery. Located around the Periyar Lake, this sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can embark on a boat safari to spot a variety of exceptionalanimals in their natural habitat. The sanctuary’s lush greenery, nourished by the monsoon, provides the perfect backdrop for activities like bamboo rafting and trekking through dense forests. It also offers a rare opportunity to explore spice plantations nearby. The harmony of wildlife, pristine landscapes and adventure makes Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary truly exceptional.

Explore Athirapally Waterfalls
Athirapally Falls, often called the Niagara of India, is a stunning sight in September. The waterfalls are still at their peak flow, surrounded by dense greenery. Enjoy a trek to the base of the falls and capture mesmerizing views.

Athirappilly Waterfalls is a stunning natural wonder located in the Thrissur district of Kerala. Cascading from a height of 80 feet, this majestic waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a spectacular sight, especially during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its maximum. The tranquil ambience, combined with the surrounding forests, creates a perfect setting for nature lovers and photographers. Athirappilly’s beauty has earned it a spot in several films, adding to its glamour. The waterfall is a popular destination for those seeking serenity amidst nature’s grandeur, making it one of Kerala’s most famous tourist attractions.

Unwind on the Beaches of Kovalam and Varkala
September offers pleasant weather to enjoy Kerala’s beaches. Kovalam’s crescent-shaped beaches and Varkala’s cliffside views are perfect for relaxation, beach walks or indulging in rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages.

The beaches of Kovalam and Varkala are unique for their contrasting yet equally captivating coastal experiences. Kovalam is renowned for its crescent-shaped beaches like Lighthouse Beach, offering calm waters ideal for swimming and relaxing, along with lively beachside cafes and solemn Ayurvedic retreats. In contrast, Varkala’s cliffside setting provides stunning views of the Arabian Sea, with its red laterite cliffs lined with shacks serving local delicacies and yoga sessions. Varkala Beach, also known for its natural mineral springs, will add a bit of therapeutic touch to your Kerala experience. Together, these beaches offer a harmonious blend of leisure, wellness and scenic beauty that can be found only in Kerala.

Experience Onam Celebrations
If Onam falls in early September, immerse yourself in Kerala’s vibrant cultural festival. Enjoy traditional performances like Kathakali, Pulikali and boat races and savour the unforgettable taste of Onasadya feast served on banana leaves.

Onam celebrations are unique as they embody Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and bring together people from all walks of life to celebrate unity, prosperity and tradition. This 10-day harvest festival is marked by vibrant rituals, elaborate flower arrangements or Pookalam and grand feasts called Onasadya, served on banana leaves with over twenty traditional dishes. The festivities include mesmerizing Kathakali performances, Pulikali or tiger dance and Vallamkali or snake boat races that showcase Kerala’s artistic and cultural vibrancy. Onam uniquely blends ancient folklore, such as the legend of King Mahabali, with modern communal festivities, making it a heartwarming and memorable experience for visitors.

Trek in Wayanad
The lush hills of Wayanad offer exciting trekking opportunities in September. Explore Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak or Soochipara Falls, all surrounded by vibrant post-monsoon greenery.

Trekking in Wayanad is unique because it offers a perfect mix of adventure, natural beauty and cultural richness. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad’s lush green hills, such as Chembra Peak and Brahmagiri, provide thrilling trekking trails with breathtaking views of mist-covered valleys, tea estates and waterfalls. The heart-shaped lake atop Chembra Peak is a standalone attraction, adding a touch of romance to the adventure. Treks to Edakkal Caves reveal ancient rock carvings, blending history with exploration. The tranquil environment, diverse wildlife and vibrant flora make trekking in Wayanad an unmatched experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Indulge in Ayurvedic Treatments
The weather in September is perfect for rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies. Many resorts across Kerala offer holistic treatments to relax the mind and body, providing a refreshing escape.

Ayurvedic treatments in Kerala are unique as they offer an authentic and holistic approach to wellness in the land where Ayurveda has been practiced for centuries. Kerala’s pristine environment, with its abundance of medicinal plants, provides the perfect setting for traditional therapies. Renowned for its Panchakarma treatments, Kerala’s Ayurvedic retreats focus on detoxifying, rejuvenating and restoring balance to the body and mind. Treatments like Abhyanga or oil massage and Shirodhara or oil poured on the forehead are personalized and rooted in ancient wisdom. Coupled with yoga, meditation and a tranquil ambience, Kerala’s Ayurvedic treatments offer a deeply transformative and healing experience.

Discover Kumarakom’s Bird Sanctuary
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers in September. Post-monsoon, the sanctuary comes alive with migratory birds like Siberian cranes and egrets, making it a delightful spot for nature enthusiasts.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located on the serene Vembanad Lake in Kerala, is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Spread over 14 acres, this sanctuary is home to a rich variety of migratory and native birds, including Siberian cranes, herons, egrets and kingfishers. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot or by boat, offering a tranquil experience amidst lush greenery and calm waters. Its diverse ecosystem, including wetlands and tropical forests, makes it an exceptional spot for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers and photographers alike. The sanctuary is also known for its vibrant flora, enhancing its appeal as a peaceful retreat.

Explore Fort Kochi’s Heritage
Fort Kochi’s colonial charm is enhanced in September, with the weather ideal for walking tours. Visit historical landmarks like St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets and Mattancherry Palace and enjoy art galleries and cozy cafes.

Fort Kochi, a historic town in Kerala, is a charming blend of colonial architecture, cultural heritage and coastal beauty. Known for its rich history as a Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial port, the area is famous for its iconic Chinese fishing nets, which are a testament to the ancient fishing methods still practiced today. Strolling through the narrow lanes reveals a fascinating mix of old churches, synagogues and colonial-era buildings, while vibrant art galleries, cafes and shops add to the contemporary appeal. Fort Kochi’s coastal ambience, combined with its diverse cultural influences, makes it an enchanting destination that offers a unique glimpse into Kerala’s past and present.

What to Pack for Kerala in September

When traveling to Kerala in September, it’s important to pack light and breathable clothing due to the humid and warm climate. However, this month also marks the tail end of the monsoon season, so you can happily expectonly occasional rainfall. Here’s a list of essentials to pack for your Kerala trip in September:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Cotton or linen clothes to keep you cool and comfortable in the humid weather.
• Rain gear: A waterproof jacket, umbrella and waterproof footwear will be helpful as Kerala experiences frequent rain showers during this time.
• Comfortable shoes: Sturdy shoes or sandals suitable for walking, as you’ll likely explore both urban areas and nature.
• Insect repellent: To protect against mosquitoes, especially in coastal and forested areas.
• Sunscreen: SPF to protect your skin from the tropical sun.
• Swimwear: For beach visits, resort pools or houseboat stays.
• Hat or sunglasses: To shield yourself from the sun.
• Water bottle: Stay hydrated, as it can be quite humid and perspiring.
• Camera: To capture Kerala’s natural beauty, especially if you plan to visit beaches, backwaters, or scenic landscapes.
• Medications: If you have specific medical needs, make sure to carry necessary prescriptions.

Pack these essentials to stay comfortable and prepared for the humid and rainy weather in Kerala during September. Ensure that by packing the right things, you can enjoy the Kerala vacation at its best.