Things To Do In Kerala In November

1. Partake in Kalpathy Ratholsavam celebration

Kalpathy Ratholsavam is an ancient temple festival that is celebrated annually in the month of November at the Sree Viswanatha Swamy Temple in Kalpathi, Palakkad district of Kerala, India. The festival is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it is one of the most important festivals in the region. During the festival, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and the three magnificent chariots are taken out through the streets of Kalpathi town in a grand parade. The festival is also characterized by the performance of traditional music, dance and vedic rituals. The festival also includes cultural programs and performances that add to the unique atmosphere of the event. The Kalpathy Ratholsavam is a great opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of Kerala and to join the local community in celebrating their faith.

2. Watch the breath-taking dance moves innate to Kerala in Cochin

Kathakali is a traditional dance-drama form that originates from the state of Kerala, India. It is known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and expressive gestures that tell stories from Hindu mythology. When visiting Cochin, it is a must-see experience to watch a Kathakali performance. The performance is usually held in the evenings, and it is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Kerala. The dancers use their facial expressions and hand gestures to convey emotions such as love, anger, and power, making it a captivating and mesmerizing experience. The intricate costumes and make-up, along with the traditional music and instruments make it an unforgettable experience.

3. Praise the snake festival in Alappuzha

The Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple in Alappuzha district, Kerala is a unique temple dedicated to serpent gods and goddesses. This temple is known for its beautiful pictures of snakes that decorate the pathways and the trees. The temple is also unique in that it is presided over by a Brahmin woman, making it a rare temple in India. One of the major festivals that takes place in the temple is the Ayilyam Festival, which falls on the Ayilyam asterism in the Malayalam month of Thulam, which generally corresponds to the months of October or November. This festival is considered to be very important and is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by the devotees. It is a great opportunity to witness the traditional customs, rituals and practices of the temple and to immerse oneself in the local culture and traditions.

4. Unwind and let loose in Vagamon

Vagamon is a hill station located in the state of Kerala, India, known for its beautiful natural scenery and cool mountain air. The place is perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape in November, as the falling waterfalls, hillocks and lush valleys will mesmerize visitors with their beauty. The cool mountain air is sure to spark the romantic in you. The deep valleys, lush tea gardens, and lovely hills make this place a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. November is a great time to visit as the weather is cool and perfect for outdoor activities such as trekking and paragliding. The pine woods are also worth visiting in the cool winter season. Vagamon is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, as it offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the place.

5. Parasailing and surfing at Kovalam

Kovalam is a coastal town located in the southern state of Kerala, India, known for its beautiful beaches and water sports. The town offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, beyond just soaking up the sun on the beach. Visitors can take a boat tour around the town and spend a night on the picturesque houseboats. Adventure seekers can also try their hand at surfing and parasailing at the popular Lighthouse Beach or take a sailboat ride at the Hawah Beach. The town is known for its lively atmosphere and offers a great opportunity to indulge in water activities while taking in the scenic views. Kovalam is a perfect destination for those who are looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation and cultural experiences.

6. Houseboat ride in Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a beautiful backwater destination located in the state of Kerala, India, known for its picturesque canals and lagoons. One of the most popular activities in Kumarakom is taking a houseboat ride through the backwaters, which offers a chance to take in the stunning scenery and explore the area. During the ride, visitors can also enjoy an Ayurvedic massage, which is a must-try experience while in Kumarakom. For those interested in the arts, watching a live performance of Kathakali, a traditional dance-drama form of Kerala, is a must-see experience. Nature lovers can also visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a wide variety of bird species and offers great opportunities for bird watching. A houseboat ride in Kumarakom is a great way to experience the serene backwaters of Kerala and indulge in a variety of activities.

7. Paragliding in Munnar

Paragliding in Munnar is a thrilling activity that allows you to fly over the beautiful hills of Munnar and take in the stunning views of the lush green tea estates. You don't need any prior training or experience to try paragliding, all you need is a sense of adventure and the trust in your paragliding pilot. The activity is safe and provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Munnar from a different perspective. The feeling of soaring over the hills, with a view from 10,000 feet, is truly mesmerizing. The cool and pleasant weather in Munnar in November makes it an ideal time to take a paragliding ride and enjoy the serene and tranquil atmosphere of the place.

8. Celebrate Alpashi Utsavam in the capital of Kerala

The Alpashi Utsavam is a major festival celebrated at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, India. The festival usually falls in either October or November every year. The highlight of the festival is the Aarattu ceremony, in which the deities of the temple are taken for a holy dip in the ocean. This ceremony is attended by thousands of devotees and is very auspicious. The Aarattu ceremony is followed by a grand parade which starts from the temple and proceeds to the Shanghumugham Beach. The parade is led by the head of the Travancore Royal Family, who carries a sword and is accompanied by caparisoned elephants, mounted police and segments of armed police. The parade is a grand spectacle and an opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

9. Through the greens of Wayanad

Wayanad is a picturesque district located in the state of Kerala, India, known for its lush green landscapes, serene atmosphere, and a wide variety of outdoor activities. The district is famous for its tree houses that are nestled amidst the wilderness, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the place while enjoying a cosy stay. Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities such as trekking in the mountains, enjoying valley views, bathing under waterfalls, and taking long walks in the rain-kissed tea and coffee farms. The district is known for its rich biodiversity and offers great opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers to explore and experience the beauty of the place. The cool and pleasant weather in November makes it an ideal time to visit Wayanad and enjoy its natural beauty.

10. Appreciate a Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey

Houseboats in Alleppey are equipped with all the amenities required for a comfortable stay, such as air-conditioned bedrooms, bathrooms, living room and a kitchen. They are designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing experience while cruising through the backwaters. The boats are staffed with a crew that includes a captain, a cook, and a helper. One of the highlights of the houseboat experience is the traditional Kerala meal, Sadya, which is served as lunch. The Sadya is a feast of traditional Kerala dishes, which are served on a banana leaf and includes delicacies such as steamed rice, sambar, dal, rasam, curries, chutneys, and payasam. The Sadya is prepared with all the traditional Kerala spices and ingredients, providing a true taste of the local cuisine. As you cruise along the backwaters, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the lush green canopied trees and the diverse aviary life. The backwaters are home to a wide variety of birds such as kingfishers, egrets, cormorants, and herons, which can be spotted along the way. The houseboat cruise in Alleppey is a perfect way to relax, unwind and take in the natural beauty of the place.

Dive into the best of nature in Kerala today!