To explore the beauty and scenic attractions of Kerala- God’s Own Country, January is the desired month to enjoy every detail of Kerala’s tourist attractions. It is an incredible month to visit Kerala due to the charming climate, and most importantly, the state hosts a lot of social celebrations in January. The southern state which is quite popular for its amazing backwaters, gorgeous hills and valleys, serene locations, and clear beaches, looks more vibrant in January.
The state of Kerala is a hot region so if you pick for January month to visit, you can enjoy pleasant weather. Kerala in January is quite pleasant and soothing enough to explore the beauty of the place in a serene mood.
Weather in Kerala in January
Kerala receives a chilling atmosphere in January month. This is the best time to explore the state as it is neither too dry nor much cooler. The average temperature in January varies from 25-28 degrees Celsius. Traveling to Kerala in January gives loads of opportunities for tourists to explore amazing destinations in the region.
The days in Kerala are long enough with almost 9 hours of sunshine making it comparatively cooler.
8 Best places to visit in Kerala in January 2024
Alleppey
Alleppey is one of the most popular places to visit in Kerala in January to enjoy amazing backwaters. The tourists coming here can enjoy houseboat trips in the mesmerizing climate in January. Paddy fields, crystal clear lakes, and fishing villages are the key attractions in Alleppey. Visit this paradise to enjoy a stay on a houseboat cruise, village walks, Ayurvedic therapies, and much more.
- Closest airport: Kochi Airport
- Nearest railway station: Alleppey Railway Station
- Things To Do: Stay at houseboats, go sightseeing, visit the bird sanctuary
- Key attractions: Krishnapuram Palace, Vembanad Lake, Alleppey Beach, Marari Beach, Pathiramanal, Kuttanad Backwaters, Arthunkal Church, Ambalapuzha Temple, Mannarshala Temple, etc.
Munnar
Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations located in the state of Kerala. Its huge valleys and serene atmosphere, along with vast tea plantations, Munnar is quite a famous spot in Kerala for honeymooners in January. Located 1,600m above sea level, a vacation in the beguiling locales of Munnar is all about the lofty clouds, scenic mountains, rolling hills, and a pleasant ambiance.
- Key attractions: Cheeyappara Waterfalls, TATA Tea Museum, Attukal Waterfalls, Cheeyapara Waterfalls, Kundala Lake, Nyayamakad, Meesapulimala, etc.
- Nearest airport: Kochi Airport
- Nearest railway station: Aluva Railway Station
- Things To Do: Go for sightseeing tours
Vagamon
Vagamon is another much-loved place in Kerala in January. It is an ideal tourist destination and one the most awesome places to visit in Kerala in case you want to connect with nature. Lush green gardens, wide meadows, gorgeous dales, and many more things lure tourists.
- Key attractions: Thangal Hill, Vagamon Falls, and Maramala Waterfalls.
- Nearest airport: Kochi International Airport
- Nearest railway station: Kottayam Railway Station
Varkala
If you are looking for some water activities, then visit Varkala in Kerala in January. People love doing water sports here and a few of the activities to get indulged in here include horse-riding, surfing, parasailing, etc. Also, don’t forget to observe the sunset view from here.
- Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport
- Closest railway station: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station
- Things To Do: Witness gorgeous views of the Arabian Sea at Kappil Beach, visit Varkala Aquarium and Varkala Lighthouse
- Places To Stay: Zostel, Clafouti Beach Resort, Piggy Hostel Varakala
Wayand
Located in the lap of the Western Ghats, Wayanad indeed is listed among the top places to visit in Kerala. Located at a height of 700-2,100m, this stunning hill station is all about fantasy, unexplored nature, unforgettable moments, and merriment. Adding more to Wayanad’s enchanting beauty, visitors can know about the history while visiting this hilly retreat.
- Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport
- Nearest railway station: Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station
- Things To Do: Visit waterfalls and dams
- Places To Visit: Sentinel Rock Falls, Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Peak, Soochipara Falls, Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Kuruva Island, Pookode Lake, Lakkidi, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
Thekkady – Exotic Wildlife
Thekkady is truly a magical place in Kerala where you can get indulged in activities like boating while gazing at the exotic wildlife. Some of the animals found here include lions, Boars, Deer, Bison, etc.
- Key attractions: Elephant Junction, Mudra Cultural Centre, and Chellarkovil, are the attractions here among many others.
- Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
- Nearest railway station: Kottayam Railway Station
- Things To Do: Hike to Thekkady’s Border, enjoy the wildlife at Periyar National Park
Kannur – Colonial Town
Kannur is also known as ‘The Crown of Kerala’ for being a breathtaking destination. An offbeat yet one of the best places to visit in Kannur which can be visited in Kerala in January. The colonial town has some of the best beaches where you can sit back and have a good time. Kannur is located amidst some brilliant architecture, splendid cashew plantations, ancient temples, etc.
- Key attractions: Fort St. Angelos, Ezhimala Beach, and Tellicherry Fort here.
- Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport
- Nearest railway station: Kannur Main
- Things To Do: Enjoy local sightseeing, visit beaches, taste seafood
Nelliyampathy
Cardamom farms, tea, and lemon don’t these things make for a perfect winter afternoon hence Nelliyampathy becomes the best of places to see in Kerala in January. You can have an enchanting vacation where you can also trek at the community hall and gear up for the adventure. You will see a sight of the forest, filled with squirrels and elephants, with a backdrop of amazing valleys.
- Nearest airport: Coimbatore Airport
- Nearest railway station: Palakkad Railway Station
- Things To Do: Visit Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, go for a sightseeing tour
- Places To Stay: Greenland Farm
Activities to Do in Kerala in January
Kayaking and Canoeing in Alleppey
If you are visiting the backwaters of Alleppey, then don’t forget to do Kayaking and Canoeing. While enjoying Kayaking and Canoeing in Alleppey, you will feel connected to mother nature with palm trees surrounding from all sides.
Water Sports in Kovalam
Kovalam is another place to relax and enjoy some water sports activities. Numerous water sports activities like scuba diving, water skiing, snorkeling, parasailing, etc. are hosted at the beach. Getting involved in any of the water sports activities would create a lifetime full of memories.
Attend a Kathakali Performance
A cultural treasure of Kerala, Kathakali Dance is one of the classical forms of dance in India, which has been originated in the state of Kerala. You can see elaborate masks painted in different hues, incredible colors, make-up, and costumes, presenting a completely fascinating picture. Make sure to attend a Kathakali dance performance in Kerala in January.
Stay in Tree House
Tree Houses in Kerala are very popular as these eco-friendly tree houses are traditional houses made using materials coir mats, bamboo poles, hay straws, live trees, etc.
Thekkady Jeep Safari
Get ready to witness a thrilling jeep safari ride that is full of adventure. The adventure covers dense forests, acres of plantations, rich vegetation, and waterfalls, thereby making it an incredible journey.
Wayanad’s Chambra Peak Trekking
Chembra Peak in Wayanad is the highest peak almost 2100 meters above sea level. Here you will get a chance to observe glorious clouds which undoubtedly will increase your excitement level.
Visit to Spice Farms
Spice up your vacations with a visit to one of the many spice farms located in Thekkady or Munnar. It is an amazing activity to do in Kerala.
Popular Kerala Festival in January
Makaravilakku is one of the popular festivals celebrated in Kerala in January, it is Kerala’s traditional festival celebrated for an entire week and occurs on the famous Hindu festival, Makar Sankranti. During this festival, people of Kerala worship Lord Ayyappa’s idol and the program is organized at the Ayyappa Temple located in Sabarimala.
Besides Adoor Gajamela is also celebrated in the month of Makaram, anywhere between January or February.
Conclusion
If you plan to visit Kerala in January, then make sure you include all these attractions in your bucket list. Visiting these places is much more captivating than you have ever imagined. So, book your trip to Kerala in January from Honeymoon Bug and discover the Southern state.
FAQs About Kerala Trip in January
Is January a good time to visit Kerala?
January remains cooler in Kerala with comparatively dry days. The month is ideal for sightseeing.
Which is the coldest month in Kerala?
Winter season in Kerala which starts by the end of November and ends in late February are the cooler months. The coldest months are December and January and mountainous regions like Wayanad, Munnar, and Thekkady become quite colder during these months.
What is the most preferred time of year to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is the winter season, which begins in September and ends in March.
Which kind of clothes should I pack while going to Kerala in January?
Wear breathable clothes, preferably cotton. Carry traditional attires if you are planning to visit temples.
Are 4 days enough for Kerala?
Yes, the ideal duration for Kerala is 4 days, which is enough to explore the best tourist places.
Kerala Tour Guide For Other Months
