If you’re wondering whether June is a good time to visit Kerala, the short answer is: yes, but it depends on what you’re looking for. June marks the arrival of Kerala’s magical southwest monsoon, transforming its landscapes into a lush, emerald paradise. Rolling hills are veiled in mist, backwaters brim with life, and the earthy scent of rain rejuvenates your senses.
This is not the Kerala of sun-drenched beach holidays—it’s the Kerala of quiet river walks, Ayurvedic therapies, slow travel, and dramatic green vistas. It’s also a time of fewer tourists, lower prices, and deeply immersive experiences.
But monsoon travel also comes with its quirks: limited beach activities, sudden rain showers, and occasional transport delays. This complete guide will help you decide if June is right for your trip and how to get the most out of your Kerala monsoon adventure in 2025.
What Expect Weather of Kerala in June
June is officially monsoon season in Kerala, driven by the southwest winds from the Arabian Sea. The monsoon usually begins in the first week of June, arriving first in Kerala before sweeping across the rest of India.
- Temperature: 24°C to 30°C
- Rainfall: Frequent but not constant—expect heavy rain for 1–2 hours followed by light showers or dry intervals
- Humidity: 80–90%, especially in coastal and backwater regions
- Sunlight: Limited, but misty skies and filtered light make landscapes visually stunning
The rains bring Kerala alive, especially in hill stations like Munnar, forests in Wayanad, and backwaters around Alleppey and Kumarakom. Rain usually falls in bursts—mornings can be clear, making them perfect for sightseeing, while evenings may see heavier rain.
Travel Tip: Waterproof footwear, a foldable umbrella, and a light rain jacket are your best companions. Also, keep some buffer time in your itinerary to account for weather-driven delays. Explore Kerala in 6 Days – Plan Your Tour Today
Why June is a Good Time to Visit Kerala
1. Lush Natural Beauty
Kerala in June is breathtaking. The monsoon paints its landscape a vivid green—from the tea-covered hills of Munnar to the misty forests of Thekkady. Rivers and waterfalls swell with fresh rainwater, creating spectacular natural backdrops.
2. Fewer Tourists & Better Prices
This is Kerala’s off-season, which means lower accommodation costs, cheaper cab rates, and less-crowded attractions. If you’re someone who prefers slow travel and fewer crowds, this month is a dream.
3. Monsoon Ayurveda
Kerala’s famed Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapies are best undertaken during the monsoon. According to Ayurveda, the body’s pores open up in the humid air, allowing for better absorption of medicinal oils. Many retreats offer monsoon wellness packages in June at discounted rates.
4. Cultural Richness
You can witness local festivals, Kathakali performances, and temple rituals with fewer tourists around. You’ll interact more with locals and get a more authentic glimpse into everyday Kerala life.
Note: If you’re specifically looking for beach activities and uninterrupted sunshine, this may not be your ideal month. But for those drawn to peace, wellness, nature, and value, June is a compelling time to explore. Discover Kerala in 6 Days – Custom Tour Itinerary
Best Places to Visit in Kerala in June
Munnar
The misty hills and tea plantations come alive with the monsoon. Short hikes, tea estate visits, and waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam are at their best.
1. Alleppey & Kumarakom
The backwaters are full and flowing. You can stay in a houseboat with rain-lashed views, take a canoe ride through canals, or relax at a lakeside resort.
Related: How to Reach the Backwaters of Alleppey – Travel Guide
2. Wayanad
June is perfect for misty forest trails, ancient caves (like Edakkal Caves), and powerful waterfalls such as Meenmutty and Soochipara. It’s also a wildlife-rich area.
3. Thekkady
Ideal for jungle safaris, boat rides in Periyar Lake, and Ayurveda stays. While the forest trails may close occasionally, the views and birdlife are stunning post-rain.
4. Varkala & Kovalam
While swimming isn’t advised due to strong currents, these beaches are peaceful and less commercial in June. The cliffs of Varkala offer panoramic ocean views shrouded in monsoon mist. Reserve Your 7-Day Kerala Escape – All-Inclusive
Experience Monsoon Ayurveda in Kerala
June is one of the best months to undergo Ayurvedic therapies in Kerala. According to traditional wisdom, the humid monsoon air softens the skin and opens up body channels, allowing for deeper detoxification.
Most authentic Ayurvedic centers in Panchakarma resorts or hospital-retreats offer weeklong monsoon wellness packages. These typically include:
- Abhyanga (medicated oil massage)
- Shirodhara (oil pouring on the forehead)
- Herbal steam baths
- Internal cleansing therapies
- Personalized diets based on your dosha
Top destinations for Ayurveda in June:
- Somatheeram Ayurveda Village (Kovalam)
- Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort (Palakkad)
- Kalari Kovilakom (Thrissur)
Before booking, make sure the retreat is government-certified and has experienced Ayurvedic doctors on-site.
Related: Ayurveda Treatment in India – A Complete Wellness Journey
Festivals and Cultural Events in Kerala in June
While June is quieter compared to Kerala’s temple festival season (which peaks from January to April), the monsoon still ushers in local observances and immersive cultural moments.
1. Niraputhari (3Temple Festival)
Held in select temples in Malabar and Palakkad, Niraputhari marks the beginning of the new rice harvest. Though not as grand as Thrissur Pooram, it offers a glimpse into Kerala’s agrarian rituals and temple traditions.
2. Monsoon Theatre Performances
Several cultural centres in Kochi, Thekkady, and Kumarakom host Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Kalaripayattu performances indoors during the rains. Fewer tourists mean more intimate performances and chances to interact with the artists.
3. Rain Songs & Local Arts
In rural Kerala, the onset of the rains is accompanied by folk songs known as mazha pattukal, especially among women engaged in farming or weaving. Visit craft villages like Aranmula or Cheruthuruthy to explore music, weaving, and wooden boat-building traditions.
Even in monsoon, Kerala’s rhythm of life—slow, soulful, deeply connected to the land—keeps you enchanted. With smaller crowds, you’ll feel more like a participant than a tourist.
Read more Packages for Kerala: Book Your Perfect 5-Day Kerala Getaway Now
Things to Do During Kerala in June
Kerala in June may not offer clear skies and sun-drenched beaches, but it makes up for it with rich, immersive experiences that come alive in the rain. Here’s what you can truly enjoy in this season:
1. Houseboat Cruises in the Backwaters
While June sees some rainfall, most houseboat operators in Alleppey and Kumarakom run year-round. A slow cruise through the canals during a light drizzle—surrounded by swaying palms, paddy fields, and local life—is incredibly calming. Choose a premium houseboat for better monsoon insulation and onboard dining.
Related: How to Reach the Backwaters of Alleppey – Travel Guide
2. Spice Plantation Walks
Regions like Thekkady, Wayanad, and Munnar are home to lush spice farms. The monsoon enhances their beauty and aroma. Take a guided walk to learn about pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and clove cultivation—and buy fresh, rain-harvested spices.
3. Waterfalls at Their Peak
June is the time when Athirappilly, Soochipara, Meenmutty, and Cheeyappara waterfalls thunder into life. Caution is necessary, but the views are dramatic and unmissable.
4. Rainy Day Experiences
Try Ayurvedic massages, sip spiced chai in hill cafés, take a monsoon cooking class, or enjoy a romantic dinner at a lakeside resort with stormy skies overhead.
While swimming and beach lounging are limited, Kerala’s monsoon opens the door to experiences that are quiet, sensory-rich, and soul-deep.
Packing Tips & Monsoon Travel Essentials
Packing for Kerala in June means balancing for rain, humidity, and occasional sunny spells. Here’s your 2025 Kerala Monsoon Packing Checklist:
Clothing:
- Quick-dry T-shirts and light cotton pants
- A light waterproof jacket or poncho
- One set of slightly warmer clothes if visiting hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad)
- Modest attire for temples (covered shoulders & knees)
Footwear:
- Waterproof sandals or floaters with grip
- A pair of casual shoes (for dry days)
- Flip-flops for houseboat or resort wear
Essentials:
- Compact umbrella or travel poncho
- Mosquito repellent (especially near water bodies)
- Waterproof pouches for electronics
- Extra phone charger or power bank
- Basic medicines (cold, allergies, fever)
Travel Tips:
- Use waterproof luggage covers
- Book accommodations with in-house dining, especially in remote areas
- Carry offline maps or download areas on Google Maps in case of low signal Experience Kerala’s Backwaters – 7-Day Houseboat Tour
Sample 7-Day Monsoon Itinerary for Kerala in June 2025
This itinerary balances hill stations, backwaters, and wellness—with room for the occasional rainy delay.
1- Day – Kochi Arrival
- Explore Fort Kochi, Dutch Palace, and Chinese Fishing Nets
- Enjoy a seafood dinner at a heritage restaurant
2- Day – Munnar
- Drive through misty roads and tea gardens
- Stop at Cheeyappara Waterfalls en route
- Evening walk through a plantation estate
3- Day – Munnar Exploration
- Visit Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, and Echo Point
- Relax with a spice-infused Ayurvedic massage
4- Day – Thekkady
- Head to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Optional boat ride (if weather permits)
- Spice plantation tour and stay at an eco-lodge
5- Day – Alleppey
- Transfer to Alleppey
- Check into a private houseboat
- Enjoy cruising, onboard meals, and rain on the water
6- Day – Kumarakom
- Short transfer to a lakeside resort
- Visit Bird Sanctuary if weather allows
- Sunset monsoon view with a traditional dinner
7- Day – Kochi Departure
- Return to Kochi
- If time permits, shop at Lulu Mall or relax in a café before your flight/train
Read: Kerala in June 2025: Weather, Climate Guide, Travel Tips & Destination Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is June too rainy to travel around Kerala?
Not at all. While it rains daily, it’s often in short, predictable spells. Most roads and activities remain open, especially in tourist zones.
Are beaches in Kerala safe during June?
Swimming is not advised due to high tides. But beaches like Varkala and Marari offer stunning views, peaceful walks, and beautiful monsoon skies—even if you don’t get into the water.
Is June a good time for houseboats in Kerala?
Yes. Most houseboats are fully operational in June, especially in Alleppey and Kumarakom. Choose an AC boat with good sealing, and enjoy the cozy experience.
Is travel cheaper in June?
Yes! June is off-season, so you’ll find discounts on hotels, Ayurvedic packages, car rentals, and even flights.
Are wildlife sanctuaries open in June?
Yes, most are—though safari boat rides may be suspended during heavy rain. Check local advisories before booking.
Conclusion: Is June a Good Time to Visit Kerala?
If you’re seeking quiet beauty, deep relaxation, and a richer cultural connection, June is an excellent time to visit Kerala. You’ll discover a different Kerala—green, poetic, and intimate.
With off-season rates, Ayurvedic healing, powerful waterfalls, and scenic road trips through tea country, this is an experience tailor-made for slow travelers, nature lovers, honeymooners, and wellness seekers.
You may get rained on—but you’ll also be rewarded with the most soul-soothing, romantic version of Kerala you could ask for. Experience Kerala’s Backwaters – 7-Day Houseboat Tour
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