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Best Time to Visit Kayamkulam: A Comprehensive Guide

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Best Time to Visit Kayamkulam: A Comprehensive Guide

Kayamkulam, a town located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India, is a popular tourist destination for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. The town is situated on the banks of Lake Vembanad, which is one of the largest lakes in India. Kayamkulam offers a plethora of activities and attractions for tourists, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit Kayamkulam depends on several factors that we will discuss in this comprehensive guide.

Seasons in Kayamkulam

Before we talk about the best time to visit, let’s understand the seasons in Kayamkulam. The town experiences three seasons – summer, monsoon, and winter.

Summer (March to May)

Summer in Kayamkulam is from March to May. The temperature during this time ranges from 30°C to 36°C. The climate is hot and humid, making it uncomfortable for tourists to explore the town. Most of the outdoor activities become challenging during this season.

Monsoon (June to September)

Kayamkulam experiences monsoon from June to September. The town receives an average rainfall of around 2600mm during this time. The temperature drops considerably, and the climate becomes slightly cooler. Kayamkulam looks lush green during monsoon, offering a picturesque view to tourists. However, the heavy rains can cause waterlogging and landslide, making it risky for tourists to explore the town.

Winter (October to February)

The winter season in Kayamkulam is from October to February. The temperature during this period ranges from 18°C to 28°C. The climate is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. Winter is the peak season for tourism in Kayamkulam.

Best Time to Visit Kayamkulam

Based on the season’s description, it is evident that winter is the best time to visit Kayamkulam. The pleasant climate, clear skies, and the buzz of tourists make it the perfect time to explore the town. Additionally, winter is also the peak season for several festivals that take place in Kayamkulam, making it more inviting for visitors.

Festivals in Kayamkulam

Kayamkulam is famous for its unique and vibrant festivals that take place during the winter season. Here are some of the popular festivals that you can attend during your visit:

  • Kottiyoor Festival: Celebrated in December-January, this festival is held at the Kottiyoor Siva Temple. The temple’s annual festival attracts thousands of devotees from across the country.
  • Chettikulangara Bharani: Celebrated in February-March, this festival is held at the Chettikulangara Devi Temple. The festival is famous for its Kuthiyottam ritual, which involves young boys immersing themselves in a trance-like state and dancing to the beats of traditional drums.
  • Nadakavu Boat Race: Held in November, this boat race tradition dates back to the 13th century. Teams from across the region participate in this race on the Kayamkulam Lake.
  • Onam Festival: Celebrated in August-September, this ten-day festival is one of the most significant festivals in Kerala. The festival is famous for the snake boat race, which takes place across the state’s backwaters.

Things to Do in Kayamkulam

Apart from attending the festivals, Kayamkulam offers several activities and attractions for tourists. Here are some of the top things to do in Kayamkulam:

  • Visit the Kayamkulam Lake: The Kayamkulam Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Kerala. It is an excellent spot for boating and fishing.
  • Explore Alleppey Backwaters: Alleppey, located 25km from Kayamkulam, is famous for its labyrinth of backwaters. A houseboat ride through the backwaters is a must-do activity for tourists.
  • Visit Krishnapuram Palace: Built-in the 18th century, Krishnapuram Palace is a magnificent palace that showcases the traditional Kerala architecture. The palace also houses a museum that displays various artefacts and exhibits related to Kerala’s history.
  • Beach Hopping: Kayamkulam is home to several beaches, including Thangassery Beach, Haripad Beach, and Ochira Beach. Spend a day exploring these pristine beaches.
  • Attend a Kathakali Performance: Kathakali is an ancient dance form that originated in Kerala. Several cultural centres in Kayamkulam offer Kathakali performances that you can attend.

Conclusion

To sum up, the best time to visit Kayamkulam is from October to February. The pleasant weather and the buzz of tourists make it the perfect time to explore the town’s several activities and attractions. Additionally, attending the festivals during this season offers a unique cultural experience that you cannot find elsewhere. So, plan your trip to Kayamkulam during the winter season and dive into the town’s rich culture and history.

Insider’s Guide to Kayamkulam: Exploring Local Gems

If you’re planning a trip to Kayamkulam, you’ll definitely want to find and explore some hidden gems. Despite being a relatively small city in Kerala, Kayamkulam has its fair share of off-the-beaten-path sites. Let’s dive in and discover some of the lesser-known attractions that only locals know about.

Local Attractions

Most tourists flock to the beach or the backwaters, but there’s more to Kayamkulam than water bodies. For example, the Krishnapuram Palace, a 16th-century palace, boasts a striking mural of Gajendra Moksham (Lord Vishnu rescuing an elephant) and an interesting collection of antique sculptures. The Oachira Temple, unlike most temples in Kerala, is a serene spot without idols or rituals. Built around a sacred tree, this temple attracts visitors seeking inner peace.

For a more immersive local experience, head to the Kayamkulam market. You’ll find everything from fresh fish to handmade crafts. Don’t forget to bargain! And if you’re into nature, take a trip to nearby Munroe Island to witness the creation of coir or toddy.

Dining Spots

Kayamkulam has many places to eat, ranging from street stalls to small restaurants. For a truly local experience, taste the food at a toddy shop. These are roadside bars that serve palm wine along with some authentic Kerala dishes. Don’t worry; the palm wine is not too intoxicating and goes well with karimeen pollichathu, a popular fish dish in the city.

If you prefer a restaurant, try out the Unniyappam Kada, which is famous for appams and banana chips. Another famous eatery is Hotel Ceepees Royal, which has classic Kerala dishes along with North Indian and Continental variants.

Cultural Experiences

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Kayamkulam’s culture is by experiencing its festivals. The Onam festival is celebrated with enthusiasm and is a time when the whole community comes together. Another significant festival is the Bharani, which is celebrated at the Kodimoottil Bhagavathy Temple in March.

Kayamkulam is also home to many artists and artisans who maintain their traditional crafts. The Krishnapuram mural museum is a fascinating insight into Kerala’s rich artistic tradition. Visitors can witness artists working on murals and paintings using natural colors. Also, don’t miss the coir-making unit in Munroe Island, where you can learn how the locals make coir rope by hand.

Local History

Kayamkulam has a rich history, and there are many interesting stories tucked away in its past. For example, the Kayamkulam War between the Dutch and the Travancore Kingdom in 1741, which was significant in shaping the history of Kerala. Another known story is that of the Kayamkulam Kochunni, a Robin Hood-like figure who lived in the 19th century. Visitors can visit his home, pay homage to his legacy, and learn more about his life.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you crave adventure, take a day trip to Adavi-Kayal, a lesser-known backwater with plenty of fishing opportunities. Another unusual activity is exploring the Kayamkulam Bird Sanctuary, which is relatively unknown despite being home to a variety of birds like kingfishers, egrets, and herons.

For an off-beat visit, take a boat ride in the Kayamkulam Lake, where you can explore a sunset while seagulls fly above you. At the end of it, if you’re interested in a unique souvenir, head to the handicraft village of Mannar where you can buy traditional handicrafts made by local artisans.

Kayamkulam is a city that has much to offer beyond its scenic beauty. By visiting the hidden attractions and trying out its local flavors, visitors can witness its history, traditions, and culture. An unforgettable experience awaits those who seek it out.

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Best Time to Visit Kayamkulam: A Comprehensive Guide

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!