The Perfect Kerala Getaway During the Festival Season
Diwali Holidays in Kerala
Diwali is usually associated with lights, family gatherings, sweets, shopping and celebrations. But if you want to use the festive break for something different this year, a Diwali holiday in Kerala can be a refreshing alternative.
Instead of spending the entire holiday in a crowded city, imagine waking up among the tea plantations of Munnar, cruising through the backwaters of Alleppey, exploring the spice plantations of Thekkady or watching the sunset from a beach in Kovalam.
Kerala combines hill stations, wildlife, backwaters, beaches, food and culture in one destination, making it suitable for families, couples, honeymooners and groups.
Kerala’s October-November period can bring some northeast monsoon rainfall, particularly in parts of the state, but the hill regions become cooler and coastal areas generally remain warm. November also marks the beginning of Kerala’s popular travel season.
Why Choose Kerala for Your Diwali Holiday?
Diwali Holidays in Kerala-Diwali doesn’t have to mean visiting the same destinations every year. Kerala offers a completely different type of festive vacation.
You can combine:
- Cool mountain weather in Munnar
- Tea plantations and waterfalls
- Wildlife experiences in Thekkady
- An overnight houseboat stay in Alleppey
- Peaceful backwaters in Kumarakom
- Beach time in Varkala or Kovalam
- Heritage experiences in Kochi
- Ayurveda and wellness
- Authentic Kerala food
- Village and local-life experiences
It is particularly convenient for families because a single Kerala itinerary can combine relaxation and sightseeing without requiring separate trips to different states.
Kerala Tourism recommends planning an itinerary around your interests—whether beaches, backwaters, hill stations, wildlife, adventure or cultural experiences—and taking travel time between destinations into account.
What Is Diwali Like in Kerala?
Diwali is celebrated in Kerala, although its scale and traditions can differ from the way the festival is experienced in some parts of North and West India.
Diwali Holidays in Kerala-Homes and surroundings may be decorated with lamps and lights, families come together, sweets and gifts are exchanged, and prayers and festive gatherings form part of the celebration. Kerala Tourism describes Diwali in the state as a festival of family, lights, sweets, prayers and new beginnings.
However, travellers should not expect Kerala to look exactly like Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi or Mumbai during Diwali.
Kerala has its own distinctive festival calendar, with major celebrations including Onam, Vishu, temple festivals, boat races and numerous regional cultural events.
That is precisely what makes a Diwali trip here interesting: you get the festive atmosphere while experiencing Kerala’s own culture and landscape.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala During Diwali
1. Munnar – A Cool Mountain Escape
If you want a cooler Diwali holiday, Munnar should be near the top of your list.
Located in Kerala’s Idukki district at around 1,600 metres above sea level, Munnar is known for rolling hills, tea plantations, waterfalls and misty valleys.
Things to do in Munnar
- Visit tea plantations
- Explore Mattupetty Dam
- Spend time at Echo Point
- Visit Kundala Lake
- Enjoy mountain viewpoints
- Visit tea museums or tea-processing areas
- Explore Munnar town
- Take a scenic drive through the hills
- Try a plantation or tea-tasting experience
For couples, Munnar is especially attractive because of its cool weather, scenic viewpoints and peaceful surroundings.
2. Thekkady – Wildlife, Spice and Adventure
Thekkady is a good addition if your family or group wants something more adventurous.
The region is best known for the Periyar landscape, spice plantations and forest experiences.
You can include:
- Periyar boating
- Spice plantation visits
- Nature walks
- Jungle experiences
- Kathakali
- Kalaripayattu
- Local food experiences
- Shopping for spices and natural products
Thekkady works particularly well between Munnar and the Kerala backwaters, creating a natural route through the state’s highlands.
3. Alleppey – Spend a Night on a Houseboat
For many first-time visitors, the Alleppey houseboat experience is the highlight of a Kerala holiday.
Instead of simply visiting the backwaters for a few hours, spend the night onboard.
A typical houseboat experience can include:
- Private bedroom
- Traditional Kerala lunch
- Afternoon backwater cruise
- Evening tea/snacks
- Dinner
- Overnight stay
- Breakfast the following morning
You pass through areas surrounded by:
- Coconut palms
- Paddy fields
- Small villages
- Canals
- Local homes
- Fishing and farming areas
Kerala Tourism identifies October to February as a favourable period for backwater houseboat cruises.
For honeymooners
A houseboat can be upgraded with:
- Flower-bed decoration
- Candlelight dinner
- Honeymoon cake
- Special room decoration
- Private cruise arrangements
This makes the backwater night particularly memorable during a Diwali honeymoon.
4. Kumarakom – A Peaceful Backwater Alternative
If you prefer a quieter and more resort-oriented backwater experience, consider Kumarakom.
Located around Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is ideal for travellers who want:
- Luxury resorts
- Backwater views
- Birdwatching
- Village scenery
- Ayurveda
- Relaxation
- Romantic stays
You can choose between Kumarakom and Alleppey depending on whether you prefer a resort holiday or a houseboat-focused experience.
5. Varkala – Beach, Cliff and Sunset
Varkala is one of Kerala’s most distinctive coastal destinations.
The famous cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea gives the destination a completely different character from conventional beach resorts.
A Varkala stay can include:
- Varkala Beach
- Cliff walk
- Sunset
- Cafés and restaurants
- Local shopping
- Ayurveda
- Relaxing beach time
It is particularly suitable for couples and younger travellers looking for a combination of beach time and a lively atmosphere.
6. Kovalam – A Relaxing Beach Holiday
Kovalam is ideal for ending a Kerala Diwali trip.
After several days of travelling through mountains and backwaters, you can slow down and spend two nights beside the Arabian Sea.
Popular experiences include:
- Lighthouse Beach
- Hawa Beach
- Samudra Beach
- Vizhinjam Fishing Harbour
- Ayurveda
- Yoga
- Beach relaxation
- Coastal food
- Sunset experiences
You can also extend the trip to Poovar, where the backwaters, mangroves and Arabian Sea create a distinctive coastal landscape.
7. Kochi – Heritage, Food and Culture
Kochi is often the easiest starting point for a Kerala holiday because of its airport connectivity.
But don’t treat it only as a pickup point.
Spend a day exploring:
- Fort Kochi
- Chinese fishing nets
- Mattancherry
- Jew Town
- Heritage streets
- Local cafés
- Kerala cuisine
- Art galleries
- Sunset by the waterfront
For travellers who enjoy history and culture, Kochi adds a completely different dimension to a Kerala itinerary.
8. Poovar – A Different Kind of Beach Experience
Poovar is an excellent addition to a Kovalam itinerary.
Instead of a conventional beach day, you can experience:
- Backwater boating
- Mangrove-lined waterways
- Estuary scenery
- Golden-sand beach
- Coconut plantations
- Quiet coastal landscapes
It is particularly attractive for couples looking for a more private and relaxed experience.
Best Things to Do During a Kerala Diwali Holiday
Rather than filling every day with sightseeing, consider mixing major attractions with experiences.
1. Stay on a houseboat
An overnight houseboat is one of the most memorable ways to experience Kerala.
2. Watch the sunrise in Munnar
Wake up early and head to a suitable viewpoint for a mountain sunrise.
3. Experience Kerala tea
Visit a tea-growing area and learn about the process from leaf to cup.
4. Explore a spice plantation
Thekkady is particularly suited for this.
5. Take a wildlife experience
Consider Periyar-related activities depending on availability and your interests.
6. Enjoy authentic Kerala food
Try dishes such as:
- Appam and stew
- Kerala parotta
- Puttu and kadala curry
- Fish curry
- Sadya
- Banana chips
- Payasam
7. Experience Ayurveda
A traditional Ayurvedic treatment can be a relaxing addition to a beach holiday.
8. Explore Kerala’s villages
Don’t restrict your trip to tourist attractions. Village and backwater experiences can give you a better understanding of everyday Kerala life.
9. Enjoy a beach sunset
Finish your holiday at Varkala, Kovalam or another suitable coastal destination.
Best Kerala Diwali Itineraries
4 Nights / 5 Days
Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey
Best for travellers with limited time.
Suggested:
- 2 nights Munnar
- 1 night Thekkady
- 1 night Alleppey houseboat
5 Nights / 6 Days
Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kovalam
Suggested:
- 2 nights Munnar
- 1 night Thekkady
- 1 night Alleppey
- 1 night Kovalam
Good for couples and families wanting mountains, wildlife, backwaters and beach.
6 Nights / 7 Days
Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kovalam
Suggested:
- 2 nights Munnar
- 1 night Thekkady
- 1 night Alleppey
- 2 nights Kovalam
This is one of the most balanced options because it gives you enough time in each destination.
7 Nights / 8 Days
Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kovalam
Suggested:
- 1 night Kochi
- 2 nights Munnar
- 1 night Thekkady
- 1 night Alleppey
- 2 nights Kovalam
This is better for travellers who want to experience both Kerala’s heritage and its natural attractions.
Kerala Diwali Holiday for Families
For families, avoid creating an itinerary with a new hotel every night.
A better combination would be:
2N Munnar + 1N Thekkady + 1N Alleppey + 2N Kovalam
Children can enjoy:
- Waterfalls
- Lakes
- Wildlife
- Houseboats
- Beaches
- Scenic drives
Parents also get enough relaxation time.
Families with young children or elderly members should avoid packing too many activities into a single day.
Kerala Diwali Holiday for Couples
For couples, consider:
2N Munnar + 1N Thekkady + 1N Alleppey + 2N Kovalam
Add experiences such as:
- Private houseboat
- Candlelight dinner
- Flower-bed decoration
- Honeymoon cake
- Couple photoshoot
- Private sunset experience
- Ayurveda
- Poovar excursion
The important thing is not to make the itinerary excessively busy.
A romantic Kerala holiday needs free time.
Kerala Diwali Holiday for Senior Citizens
For senior travellers, prioritize:
- Comfortable hotels
- Shorter sightseeing days
- Easy vehicle access
- Fewer long walks
- Ground-floor rooms where possible
- Comfortable private transportation
- Adequate rest between destinations
A houseboat can be excellent, but confirm the boat’s boarding arrangements and facilities beforehand.
How Many Days Are Enough for Kerala During Diwali?
4 Nights / 5 Days
Enough for a quick Kerala holiday.
Best for:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey
5 Nights / 6 Days
Good balance.
Add:
Kovalam
6 Nights / 7 Days
Recommended for first-time visitors.
You can comfortably combine:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kovalam
7 Nights / 8 Days
Best for travellers who don’t want to rush.
Add:
Kochi or more time at the beach/backwaters.
Kerala Tourism itself recommends considering the distances and travel time between destinations when planning an itinerary rather than trying to cover too much.
What Is the Weather Like During Diwali in Kerala?
This depends on the exact Diwali date and location.
Kerala’s October-November period can still experience northeast-monsoon rainfall. Coastal and midland areas are generally warm, while the Western Ghats can be considerably cooler.
Munnar and other high-altitude areas can become quite cool during this period. Kerala Tourism notes that temperatures in the high ranges can fall significantly, occasionally approaching freezing in Munnar during colder periods.
For this reason, pack:
- Light cotton clothes
- A light jacket/sweater for Munnar
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Umbrella/rain jacket
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
Is Kerala Crowded During Diwali?
It can be.
Diwali coincides with an important holiday period for many Indian travellers, and November also falls within Kerala’s popular travel season. Kerala Tourism describes November-February as the peak season, with pleasant weather but potentially higher crowds and prices.
If you’re travelling during the Diwali holiday:
Book earlier rather than waiting until the last few days.
This is particularly important for:
- Popular Munnar hotels
- Premium houseboats
- Family rooms
- Beach resorts
- Larger vehicles
- Honeymoon arrangements
How Much Does a Kerala Diwali Holiday Cost?
There is no single fixed price.
The cost depends on:
- Number of travellers
- Number of nights
- Hotel category
- Room configuration
- Vehicle type
- Houseboat category
- Meal plan
- Activities
- Travel dates
- Pickup and drop locations
A couple travelling in a standard hotel package will obviously have a different cost from a family travelling in a premium vehicle with upgraded resorts and a private houseboat.
For an accurate quotation, provide your travel dates, number of adults/children, arrival location, departure location and preferred hotel category.
Why Book a Customized Kerala Diwali Package?
A Kerala holiday involves multiple components:
Hotel + vehicle + sightseeing + houseboat + meals + activities + transfers
Booking everything separately can be time-consuming.
A customized package allows you to choose:
- Budget hotels or premium resorts
- Private car or Tempo Traveller
- Standard or premium houseboat
- Breakfast-only or additional meals
- Honeymoon arrangements
- Family-friendly activities
- Adventure experiences
- Ayurveda
- Beach stays
- Additional nights
The biggest advantage is that your itinerary can be designed around how you actually want to travel, rather than forcing you into a fixed schedule.
Why Choose MyHappyJourney for Your Kerala Diwali Holiday?
At MyHappyJourney, Kerala holidays can be customized according to your travel style and budget.
You can combine:
- Handpicked Kerala hotels
- Private transportation
- Munnar stays
- Thekkady experiences
- Alleppey houseboats
- Kovalam and Varkala beach stays
- Honeymoon arrangements
- Family-friendly itineraries
- Local experiences
- Airport transfers
- Sightseeing and activities
Whether you’re planning a family Diwali vacation, romantic getaway, honeymoon or group holiday, the itinerary can be built around your dates and preferences.
Ready to spend your Diwali differently this year?
Plan your Diwali holiday in Kerala with MyHappyJourney.
From misty Munnar mornings to peaceful backwaters and Arabian Sea sunsets, Kerala gives you the opportunity to turn a few festive holidays into a complete travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions – Diwali Holidays in Kerala
1. Is Kerala a good destination for a Diwali holiday?
Yes. Kerala is a good choice if you want a holiday combining mountains, backwaters, wildlife and beaches rather than a destination focused only on Diwali celebrations.
Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Varkala and Kovalam can be combined into one itinerary.
2. Is Diwali celebrated in Kerala?
Yes. Diwali is celebrated in Kerala, although the style and scale of celebrations vary across communities and locations. Families may decorate homes with lamps and lights, exchange sweets and gifts, offer prayers and gather together.
3. Is Kerala very crowded during Diwali?
Popular destinations can become busy because Diwali falls during a major Indian holiday period. November is also part of Kerala’s peak tourism season.
Booking hotels, houseboats and private vehicles early is advisable.
4. What are the best places to visit in Kerala during Diwali?
For a first trip, consider:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kovalam
For a longer holiday, add Kochi, Kumarakom or Varkala.
5. Is November a good time to visit Munnar?
Generally, yes. November begins the cooler travel period in Kerala’s hill regions, although weather can vary and some rainfall can still occur after the monsoon season.
6. Will it rain in Kerala during Diwali?
It is possible. October-November can receive northeast-monsoon rainfall in Kerala. Weather varies significantly between coastal, central and hill regions.
Don’t build an itinerary assuming every day will be completely dry.
7. Is Munnar cold during Diwali?
Munnar is much cooler than Kerala’s coastal destinations because of its elevation.
A light jacket or sweater is recommended, particularly for early mornings and evenings.
8. Can we visit Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey in 4 nights?
Yes.
A practical itinerary is:
2N Munnar + 1N Thekkady + 1N Alleppey
This gives you a good introduction to Kerala without trying to cover too many destinations.
9. Is a houseboat worth including in a Kerala Diwali trip?
Yes, especially for first-time visitors.
An overnight houseboat allows you to experience Kerala’s backwaters rather than simply visiting them for a short sightseeing stop.
10. Should we choose Alleppey or Kumarakom?
Choose Alleppey if the priority is an overnight houseboat experience.
Choose Kumarakom if you prefer a peaceful backwater resort and lake-oriented holiday.
Both can be included in a longer itinerary.
11. Is Kerala suitable for children during Diwali?
Yes.
Families can choose activities such as:
- Waterfalls
- Lakes
- Wildlife experiences
- Houseboats
- Beaches
- Tea plantations
- Easy sightseeing
For young children, avoid excessive daily travel.
12. Is Kerala suitable for senior citizens?
Yes, provided the itinerary is designed carefully.
Choose comfortable hotels, private transportation and a relaxed sightseeing schedule. Avoid packing too many attractions into each day.
13. Is Kerala good for a honeymoon during Diwali?
Absolutely.
A honeymoon itinerary can combine:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey houseboat + Kovalam
Special arrangements can include a flower-decorated room, candlelight dinner, honeymoon cake and a private houseboat experience.
14. How many days should a couple spend in Kerala during Diwali?
For a first visit, 5-7 nights is ideal.
A 6-night itinerary allows enough time for:
- 2 nights Munnar
- 1 night Thekkady
- 1 night Alleppey
- 2 nights Kovalam
15. Is Kovalam better than Varkala for a Diwali holiday?
It depends on your preferences.
Choose Kovalam for resorts, beaches, Ayurveda and a relaxed family holiday.
Choose Varkala for cliffs, cafés, sunset views and a more youthful atmosphere.
You can also include both in a longer itinerary.
16. Can we include Poovar in a Kovalam itinerary?
Yes. Poovar works very well as a day excursion or an additional overnight stay from the Kovalam/Thiruvananthapuram region.
It is particularly attractive for couples interested in backwaters, mangroves and coastal scenery.
17. Is Kerala expensive during Diwali?
Prices can be higher during holiday periods because of increased demand.
Your total cost depends on hotel category, vehicle, houseboat, number of travellers and activities.
Booking earlier can give you more accommodation and vehicle choices.
18. Should we book our Kerala Diwali holiday in advance?
Yes.
If your dates are fixed, booking early is advisable for:
- Hotels
- Houseboats
- Private vehicles
- Popular resorts
- Honeymoon arrangements
Kerala Tourism also advises advance accommodation planning around popular festivals and events because they can attract larger crowds.
19. What should I pack for a Kerala Diwali holiday?
Pack:
- Comfortable cotton clothing
- Light jacket for Munnar
- Walking shoes
- Sandals
- Umbrella/rain jacket
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Personal medicines
- Insect repellent
- A small backpack
If visiting temples, carry clothing appropriate for local dress requirements.
20. Can we customize a Kerala Diwali package?
Yes.
You can customize:
- Number of nights
- Hotels
- Vehicle
- Houseboat
- Meals
- Sightseeing
- Honeymoon arrangements
- Adventure activities
- Ayurveda
- Beach stays
- Pickup and drop locations
This is particularly useful for families and groups because the itinerary can be designed around the group’s age, budget and interests.
21. Is Kerala better for a short Diwali break or a long holiday?
Both work.
For a short break:
4N/5D – Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey
For a more complete Kerala holiday:
6N/7D – Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kovalam
For a relaxed extended holiday:
7N/8D – Kochi + Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kovalam
22. Can we celebrate Diwali at our hotel in Kerala?
Yes, but the availability of special Diwali events varies by hotel and year.
If you specifically want a Diwali dinner, decorations or celebration at the hotel, ask the hotel to confirm the arrangements before booking rather than assuming that every property will organize a special event.
23. Are there special Diwali events in Kerala?
Specific events vary from year to year and by location. Kerala has a large and diverse cultural calendar, so travellers should check the official Kerala Tourism event calendar or local authorities for confirmed events rather than relying on old festival listings.
24. Is Kerala safe for a Diwali family holiday?
Kerala is generally considered a suitable destination for family travel. As with any holiday, travellers should take normal precautions, particularly in crowded areas, tourist markets and during festivals. Kerala Tourism also advises travellers to remain aware of their surroundings and respect local customs.
25. What is the best Kerala Diwali itinerary for first-time visitors?
For most first-time visitors, I would recommend:
Day 1-2: Munnar
Day 3: Thekkady
Day 4: Alleppey Houseboat
Day 5-6: Kovalam
Day 7: Departure
It gives you the four experiences Kerala is best known for:
Mountains + Wildlife + Backwaters + Beaches.
Final Thought
A Kerala Diwali holiday doesn’t need to be about finding the biggest celebration. It can be about using the festive break to slow down, spend time with family, experience nature and return home refreshed.
With a well-planned itinerary, you can wake up among Munnar’s tea gardens, cruise Kerala’s backwaters, experience the spice country of Thekkady and finish your holiday beside the Arabian Sea.
This Diwali, take the road less travelled. Choose Kerala.