Kerala in August: weather and travel tips

Located between the verdant mountains of the Western Ghats and a coastal plain that’s rich with rivers, lagoons and canals, lushly tropical Kerala is no stranger to rain around the year. That’s especially the case during the monsoon season that runs from June to August. But, if you’re looking to bag yourself an off-season bargain, or want to see the area in a more authentic light, don’t overlook visiting at this time of the year. Instead, read on to find out about the weather in Kerala in August, along with info on crowds and costs.

What’s the weather like in Kerala in August?

In essence, the weather in Kerala in August is pretty darn wet! This region of India essentially has two rainy seasons, and August sees Kerala experience its main south-west monsoon. This arrives in June and lasts until August.

FYI, southern Kerala is also affected by a north-east monsoon, which runs from October to early December.

The flip side of visiting Kerala during the August rainy season is that the region is at its lushest during the monsoon months. Also, note that August sees a decrease in precipitation from June and July.

Keen to visit Kerala? Browse our customisable India itineraries to kickstart your dream trip.

Air and sea temperatures in Kerala in August

The weather in Kerala in August heralds average daytime temperatures of 29°C. This drops to around 23°C at night.

As for the sea temperature, this averages 26°C — perfect for making the most of Kerala's best beaches in between rain showers.

For context, in April Kerala sees an average daily maximum of 33°C.

Average rainfall in Kerala in August

The average rainfall in Kerala in August is 156mm — significantly less than the area sees in June (341mm) and October (268mm). 

For wider context, note that Kerala experiences an average of 40mm of rainfall in March.

Unsure about visiting in the monsoon season? Arm yourself with info on when to go to India around the year.

Is August a good time to visit Kerala?

As you’ll have already gathered, August can be a pretty challenging time to visit Kerala, and India more generally. That's thanks to the monsoon season being characterised by variable weather conditions, and a lot of rain.

That said, there are some upsides to visiting Kerala in August. First up, thanks to the rain, the landscapes are even lusher, and waterfalls will be all the mightier.

August is also a quieter and cheaper time to visit (more on that below), and a key time for enjoying Ayurveda experiences – more on those below, too.

In summary, the key to visiting Kerala in August is coming prepared for challenges presented by the weather — heavy rains, humidity and the possibility of some flooding. 

In short, be flexible and willing to adapt.

Not set on Kerala? Read up on the weather around India in August.

What about the crowds and cost?

Due to it being the monsoon season, August sits in Kerala’s low season, which means you’ll be in the company of fewer fellow tourists. Undoubtedly a plus point if you prefer a quieter, less crowded holiday.

In addition, accommodation prices are often reduced in August, and hotels and guesthouses offer discounts and special deals.

The same is true of some tour operators and service providers.

Still haven't decided where you're going this summer? Explore our list of the best August holiday destinations.

Ready for your dream trip to Kerala?

If you’re keen to uncover Kerala’s cultural and natural attractions, browse our customisable India itineraries for inspiration before taking the plunge.

With local experts on hand to advise and handle the booking process, they take the hassle out of planning your perfect trip.

Here we highlight a few itinerary ideas:

• Kerala: God’s Own Country: spanning 11 unforgettable days, this itinerary takes in the lush greenery of tea plantations, colourful spice markets and plantations, a houseboat trip on the Kerala backwaters, before winding up with days on leisure on the beach.
• Magical Kerala: from being enchanted by the intense tropical greenery of the Kerala backwaters and enjoying a relaxing cruise on a converted rice barge, to visiting fragrant spice plantations and spotting local wildlife, this 7-day itinerary is chef’s-kiss captivating.
• Unmissable India: taking in a wealth of India’s cultural treasures  — exquisite forts and temples, fabulous food and atmospheric cities — as you journey through the Golden Triangle, this immersive adventure will see you wind up in the lush southern backwaters of Kerala.

Festivals and events in Kerala in August

Though in the low season, travellers to Kerala in August should keep an eye out for a few key cultural events. 

Onam festival

Either held in August or September (be sure to check), Onam is Kerala’s main festival, held in honour of the coming of King Mahabali. 

At this time, the entire state radiates an infectious festive spirit, as seen through boat races, dancing, music performances and feasting.

Note that Onam is celebrated in the 1st month (Chingam) of the Malayalam Calendar. This usually starts in mid-August and continues until mid-September.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race 

Held annually on the second Saturday of August, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race takes place on the Punnamda Lake, near Alappuzha.

It sees the tranquil waters transformed into the site of a fiercely fought contest between villages.

Tips for travelling to Kerala in August

Given the challenges presented by the weather in Kerala in August, read on for a few tips for travelling here at this time of year.

What to pack for Kerala in August

Given the temperatures, lightweight, breathable clothing is key. And, given the rain, you’ll also want a light rain coat and shoes that are suitable for wet weather conditions. 

Planning to visit temples? Be sure to take more modest clothes to cover up with — short attire and sleeveless outfits are out. 

Tour cultural attractions

With August sitting in the low season, you’ll have a better experience exploring some of Kerala’s most amazing temples, from the awe-inspiring Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram, to the enchanting Mannarasala Nagaraja temple in Alappuzha.

Walk on the wilder side

While in Kerala, don’t pass up the chance to soak up the region’s lush landscapes, including some of the most breath-taking waterfalls in India. 

From cascading torrents to gentle cascades, visiting the best waterfalls in Kerala offers everything from mindful relaxation to all-out exhilaration.

A word of warning though —  be prepared for trickier conditions, and having to change your plans.

Book an Ayurveda rejuvenation experience

In good news if you’re looking for a rejuvenating trip, monsoon seasons are considered to be the best time to heal and relax your body.

This means it’s easy to arrange Ayurveda and yoga experiences in scenic retreats.

Planning your August trip to Kerala

Before booking your trip to Kerala, take a look at our customisable India itineraries to start planning your perfect adventure.

You could also talk to one of our local experts to forgo all the hassle of planning and booking.

Alternatively, read The Rough Guide to South India and Kerala to craft your own itinerary.

Travelling further afield? Get yourself The Rough Guide to India and read up on the best things to do in India.