Climate of Kerala


The coastal state of Kerala lying on the Southwestern tip of India has commonly been called the tropical paradise of India. Bounded by Arabian Sea at one side and the Western Ghats on the other, the beautiful land with stunning beauty has an equable and tropical climate offering a pleasing atmosphere throughout the entire year. This coastal state has hot and humid climate during April-May and pleasant, cold climate in December-January.

The state doesn’t have to undergo any dry period with the heat of hot, scorching sun like other parts of the country. Summer extends from the month of April to June. During this period the temperature reaches to a maximum of 33 degrees centigrade which is considered less when compared other states of India. The minimum temperature remains within 20 degree centigrade at sea level.

Summer is followed by South West Monsoon that starts pouring in the month of June and continues till September. Though there is no distinct difference in the climatic conditions only with the increase in humidity .Sometimes the downpour may continue persistently even for two or three days. In this period, maximum rainfall is received by Vaithiri-Kuttiyadi range in Malabar and Peerumedu in Idukki. The rainfall is comparatively much less in the Lakshadweep islands. In the northern regions of Kerala, the rainfall is around 80% and in the southern regions the rainfall ranges from 40-50%. Actually the existence of the Western Ghats on the eastern side of the state of Kerala creates a barrier across the path of the southwest monsoon. This resulted in the creation of a significant climatic variation with abundant rainfall on the windward side and a dry belt on the lee eastern side.

The North East Monsoon begins in the month of October and stops at the end of December.

With the arrival of winter there is certain drop in the temperature and you can feel a slight chill due to the cold wind. Winter is truly enjoyable in Kerala and lasts from from November to January or February. Occasionally very little rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning takes place in the northern region of the state. Highest rainfall is received by Kottayam during this winter season.


Last Updated on : May 31, 2011