Travel tips · Kerala · India
Kerala travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
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Quick answer
Kerala has a long history of trade by sea, which brought Arab, Chinese, Jewish, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences to the coast. Hindus, Muslims and Christians — including the ancient St Thomas Christian community — live side by side, and the state is known for high literacy. Its performing arts include Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, the martial art Kalaripayattu and the ritual Theyyam of the north.
Key facts
- Language
- Malayalam and English
- Currency
- INR
- Plugs
- Type C, D and M sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is not drinkable; use bottled or filtered water, and many hotels and…
- Emergency
- 112 (national emergency number)
Things to know
- Remove shoes before entering homes and temples, and follow dress codes posted at temple gates.
- Some temples admit only Hindus; respect signs at the entrance.
- Use your right hand to eat and to give or receive things.
- Dress modestly away from beaches: cover shoulders and knees in towns and religious sites.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon outside resorts.
- Book Backwater houseboat cruise ahead: Book a reputable operator a few weeks ahead for December, January, Christmas and Onam; avoid deals offered by touts at the jetty.
- Book Periyar Tiger Reserve ahead: Boat and activity places are limited each day; book through the official Periyar eco-tourism channels in advance in peak season.
- Houseboat prices drop sharply outside December–January and on weekdays; compare several operators before booking.
Tipping
In restaurants, about 5–10% is appreciated if no service charge is included. Houseboat crews, drivers and guides are usually tipped a few hundred rupees per day at the end of the trip.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Namaskaram | Hello (respectful greeting) |
| Nanni | Thank you |
| Ethra aanu? | How much is it? |
| Venda | I don't want it / no thanks |
| Sheri | OK |
What to wear
Light cotton and linen for the humid coast, a fleece or jacket for Munnar evenings, and a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders at religious sites.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type C, D and M sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is not drinkable; use bottled or filtered water, and many hotels and restaurants provide boiled drinking water.
- Emergency number
- 112 (national emergency number)
- Phone and internet
- Mobile data is good across most of Kerala; signal drops in parts of the hills and on remote backwater stretches.
- Time zone
- Asia/Kolkata
Sea currents are strong, especially from May to September, so swim only on lifeguarded beaches and obey red flags. Roads are busy and hill routes winding; avoid night driving in the Ghats, where wild elephants sometimes cross.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check India's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Kerala?
In restaurants, about 5–10% is appreciated if no service charge is included. Houseboat crews, drivers and guides are usually tipped a few hundred rupees per day at the end of the trip.
+Can you drink the tap water in Kerala?
Tap water is not drinkable; use bottled or filtered water, and many hotels and restaurants provide boiled drinking water.
+What plugs are used in Kerala?
Type C, D and M sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Kerala?
Malayalam and English.