Best time to visit:
Kerala offers so many unique attractions - backwaters, beaches, wildlife, hill stations, culture, the monsoons - that it's an all season destination. Due to its proximity to the sea the climate of Kerala is neither too hot nor too cold.

The best time to visit depends on your requirement. Traditionally, the period August to March has been considered a good time to travel in Kerala. June to November is considered the best time for the Ayurvedic treatment for which Kerala justly famous. June and July are good months to enjoy the monsoon rains and these months are popular with honeymooning couples.

Visa:
All tourists to India require a visa. Click here for more info

Money:
There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that visitors can bring. Authorized moneychangers are to be found in most cities.

Banks / ATMS:
You will find branches/ATMs of major Indian banks in all district headquarters, major towns and certain high-traffic areas.

Travel gear:
Light cotton outfits are best. If you plan to visit hill stations or wildlife sanctuaries, a jacket or two would be handy. Hats or sunglasses help; remember to bring some sunscreen lotion along if you're sensitive to too much sun.

Credit cards:
Most of the larger hotels, restaurants and shopping centers accept Visa or MasterCard.

Currency:
Indian Rupee (INR). Click here for current forex rates

Food:
Kerala food is typically spicy. Fresh seafood is available at most places. All standard restaurants offer a variety of cuisines including Continental, Chinese and Indian dishes besides typical Kerala fare.

Emergency numbers:
Police control room: 100
Fire station: 101
Ambulance: 101

Time:
Indian Standard Time (IST) is 5:30 hrs ahead of GMT.

Water:
Even though tap water is purified, it is better for travelers to stick to bottled water. It is not advisable to drink water from slow moving streams, lakes or dams. Mineral water is available in sealed bottles.

Demonstrativeness in public:
Behaviour demonstrating affection in public like hugging or kissing is not an accepted practice in Kerala.

Temple customs:
Footwear inside the temple and entry into the sanctum sanctorum is banned in all the temples.

Some temples do not permit entry to non-Hindus, while some do. Men clothed above the waist or wearing trousers are not allowed entry to many temples - entry has to be in a �Mundu' and without shirt or with a �Veshti' draped across the shoulders. Saris or full-length skirts and bodices are advised for women. It is best to confirm the local custom with your tour guide beforehand.