The allure of solo travel to Kerala lies in the freedom to chart your course at your own pace, unrestrained by external timelines. As the world emerges from pandemic restrictions, the spirit of wanderlust has gained momentum, prompting many to embrace the ‘life’s too short’ mindset and seize the opportunity to explore the unknown. Travelers like the feeling of freedom and independence, and is a great way to gain confidence and challenge themselves.
Kerala is also called God’s own country because of its greenery, backwaters, beaches, hills, and way of life. A solo trip to Kerala can be fulfilling, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It is a state with excellent connectivity, with a tourist-friendly infrastructure. It is the perfect opportunity for solo travelers to get closer to nature.
ALSO SEE – Why is Kerala known as Gods Own Country?
Kerala, with its breathtaking beauty and welcoming atmosphere, stands as a testament to the growing popularity of solo travel. The post-pandemic era has seen a surge in individuals boldly booking flights, drawn to the idea of discovering new horizons independently. In this verdant corner of India, solo explorers can revel in the abundance of captivating destinations that effortlessly captivate the heart, making the absence of companionship inconspicuous.
Allow us to guide you through the intricacies of solo trip to Kerala, presenting insights and recommendations that cater to your unique experience. Unshackle yourself from the ordinary, and let Kerala unfold its wonders as you embark on an unforgettable solo adventure.
Is a solo trip to Kerala safe?
While the prospect of solo travel is exhilarating, it is prudent to consider certain aspects, particularly safety, a paramount concern, especially for female travelers. As you plan your solo sojourn in Kerala, delve into comprehensive research, ensuring a harmonious blend of adventure and precaution. This journey beckons you to savor the rich tapestry of Kerala’s landscapes, from the tranquil backwaters to the lush hill stations, all while embracing the joys of self-discovery.
Kerala is generally considered safe for solo women travelers. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and awareness while traveling. For Eg: If you look at the review of Ibis, A Solo Female Traveler who travelled with us in 2019, she became more comfortable once she spoke to a female who was working with Iris Holdiays
Here are some common safety precautions:
- Go with Government Approved Tour Operators in Kerala
- Go for a Multi- day package instead of a point to point taxi with hotel booking
- Check for online reviews of companies on TripAdvisor or Google before travelling
- Avoid traveling or walking alone at night.
- Select accommodations that are not isolated and well reviewed
- Show respect for local customs and cultural norms.
Additionally, be aware that some beaches in Kerala may have strong currents, so it’s advisable to check if a beach is safe for swimming.
ALSO SEE- Top 10 Beaches in Kerala
Stay on the grid
Embrace the interconnected tapestry of nature, culture, cuisine, spirituality, and human connection, as you solo-travel through the heart of Kerala’s boundless wonders. Going to off-beat destinations is not recommended while traveling solo. Even though a trip to Kerala is considered safe, it is best to stick to well-known tourist routes.
Plan well
You don’t want any surprises while traveling solo and a little research will help you be better prepared. Study how you will get from the railway station or airport to your hotel. The major airports are:
- Trivandrum International Airport
- Cochin International Airport
- Calicut International Airport
- Kannur International Airport
ALSO SEE – Airports in Kerala, Helpful Guides for Tourists Planning for a Visit
You can hire a taxi from the airport for the onward journey. Trip to Kerala has a good railway network, and other than Iduki and Wayanad districts, most major cities and towns are connected by railways. Trains are a great way to soak up the view of the countryside. The major railway stations are:
- Ernakulam Junction (ERS)
- Trivandrum Central (TVC)
- Kozhikode Main (CLT)
- Thrissur (TCR)
- Kollam Junction (QLN)
You can hire a taxi or a bus from the railway station to reach your destination.
Avoid a packed itinerary
Space yourself out and allow yourself to have a relaxing holiday. Avoid booking a non-refundable accommodation if you get sick and need to cancel. Some destinations in Kerala is hot and humid and you should plan traveling to the hills as well to enjoy myriad hues of Kerala.
ALSO SEE – Top 10 Places to visit in Kerala with a map (UPDATED)
Kerala solo female travel Reviews
Solo travel is not about solitude but about forging connections. Engage with the warm and welcoming people of Kerala, creating a grid of human interactions that enrich your journey. From the smiling faces of locals in quaint villages to the camaraderie forged during a group trek in the Western Ghats, people become an integral part of your solo adventure in Kerala if you go through some of the solo female travelers who have travelled with Iris Holidays.
Best places in Kerala for solo travelers
1. Munnar
Munnar is a popular tourist destination for a solo trip to Kerala. The hill station is located in the Western Ghats and offers a fantastic view of tea plantations, rolling hills, and misty valleys. Some must-visit places in Munnar include Eravikulam National Park, Top Station in the morning, Mattupetty Dam, Tata Tea Museum, and Marayur.
ALSO SEE-Best Of Munnar Travel Guide
2. Kovalam
If you are on a solo trip to Kerala, you must try one of the beaches in Kerala, Kovalam. Kovalam is best known for its three crescent-shaped beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Samudra Beach, and Hawa Beach. Kovalam, just 13 km from Trivandrum, is the perfect destination if you want to relax and unwind. It is well known for its Ayurvedic treatment massages and delicious coastal cuisine. Other than swimming on the beach, you can also try water diving, parasailing, and windsurfing. If you want something more sedentary, you can learn more about yoga and meditation.
3. Kochi
Kochi, or the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is Kerala’s commercial capital and a great place to start your solo trip. There are several hotels for different budgets. The city has a rich history. You can see Portuguese and Dutch influences in the architecture of Kerala. While visiting, you should not miss seeing the Dutch Palace, the oldest church in India, Anglican St. Francis Church, and the tombstone of Vasco de Gama. You can then proceed to the Kochi Fort to see the sunset
4. Alappuzha
Alappuzha, or the Venice of the East, is one of the most sought-after destinations in Kerala. It is best known for its network of rivers, lagoons, canals, and houseboat cruises. The houseboats are safe and secure. The region, surrounded by lush green rice farms, is called Kuttanad. It is one of the few places where farming is done below sea level, making it a unique and prosperous trading and fishing center. Other attractions include Vembanad Lake and the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race.
ALSO SEE-⚓9 Useful Alleppey Houseboat Booking Tips: Menu, Rates, Timings & Stay
5. Muzhappilangad Beach
Muzhappilangad Beach, located 7 km from Thalassery in Kannur district, is the only drive-in beach in Kerala, stretching 4km of sand. It offers shallow waters perfect for swimmers with water adventure sports options like paragliding, parasailing, microlite flights, power boatings, and catamaran rides. The nearest railway station is 16km, and Calicut International Airport is 102km.
ALSO SEE – Top 10 Best Beaches in Kerala
Top Safety Tips for Your Solo Trip to Kerala
It is best to err on the side of caution if you are traveling alone. Here are our top safety tips:
Arrive by day
Arriving at your destination during the daytime especially early in the morning is a safe and prudent choice. If you happen to arrive at night, you can rely on a stay in an airport hotel. Most airports offer pre-paid taxi options for your convenience. In smaller towns, it’s a good idea to pre-arrange a taxi or ask your hotel to arrange for one to pick you up.
Charge your phone and power bank
We feel handicapped without our phones, and technology has made it much easier to travel alone. Invest in a power bank. Charge your phone and power bank every night. You can use a power bank to keep your camera and phone charged during the day.
Get a SIM card
If you are coming to India from another country, we recommend getting a local SIM card while traveling alone in India. You need to show your passport, visa, and proof of home address on arrival at airport to get a SIM
India has several mobile service providers, such as Jio, Airtel, and Vodaphone. Most phone providers have affordable prepaid services. You can ask your hotel to help you out.
Insurance
If you are traveling alone, you must have insurance. This can make things less stressful and help you get treatment if you get sick.
Internet Security
With hacking becoming more common, it is best to use a VPN service while travelling solo to ensure your security and privacy are maintained. Never share your OTP or password with anyone.
Dress appropriately
Solo travelers should respect local traditions and customs, especially in sacred spaces like temples. It is best to be conservatively dressed, especially if you are a foreigner. Wear light and loose clothes and bright colours to stay cool. Essentials include a sun hat, comfortable shoes, sun cream, and sunglasses. Some places of worship have a dress code; it is best to abide by them.
Tips for health and wellness
If you are travelling in Kerala, you must be well prepared. Carry some basic medication, including over-the-counter medications and a first aid kit. It is best to have bottled water. If you fall ill, you can buy an electrolyte packet from a local medical shop. Rebuild your electrolyte levels and find something enjoyable, like binge-watching your favourite show while you recuperate.
Unique Things you can do as a solo traveler in Kerala
Now, as a female traveler on a solo trip to Kerala, you might want to spend the entire day curled up in your hotel room dozing. On the other hand, there are plenty of things to do when you visit Kerala.
ALSO SEE – 75+ Best Things to do in Kerala in your next holiday trip
1. Cooking Classes
Some hotels in Kerala offer cooking classes for their guests. Kerala has an interesting and diverse culinary tradition, and learning how to cook traditional dishes can be a rewarding experience. Your trip to Kerala must include trying traditional Kerala foods.
2. Wear a saree or Mundu
Kerala saree or Mundu has a distinct look. The sarees are generally off-white or white with gold or silver border. You can learn how Keralite women drape their sarees, you can find a class that teaches the art. Several workshops teach you how to wear a saree.
3. Accommodation in a homestay
Kerala is generally considered safe for solo women travelers. You can opt to stay in a local homestay. These homes provide a personal view of Kerala, allowing them to experience the local culture and diversity. They offer great value for money and offer a unique experience for solo women travelers.
4. Learning Yoga
Kerala is renowned for Ayurveda retreats, treatment, and yoga centers. If you are a solo woman you can opt for yoga class to improve your mental and physical health. Popular yoga resorts in Kerala offer healthy practices with magical effects. Yoga is followed religiously in Kerala, and consistent practice under expert guidance can maintain agility and health.
5. Traditional Ayurvedic massage
Kerala provides female travelers traveling alone with Ayurvedic therapies, including soothing massages from qualified women therapists. Ayurvedic treatments support general wellness by focusing purification and regeneration.Research Ayurveda centers across the state to choose the best package for your needs and enjoy your trip to Kerala.
ALSO SEE-Top 10 Holistic Ayurveda Resorts In Kerala For Every Budget (With Treatments)
6. Watch a traditional Kerala dance
Kerala is renowned for its vibrant performing arts, including Kathakali Dance, Mohiniyattam Dance, Kerala folk dances, classical music, and cultural shows. Kathakali, a storytelling dance form, is performed at dedicated centers in major cities like Kochi. Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form performed by women, is found at cultural events and temples. Kerala is also known for its classical music. You can watch these performances at some temples and cultural centers.Trip to Kerala You can watch these performances at some temples and cultural centers.
7. Watch a martial art
Kerala has several traditional martial art forms Kalaripayattu, Njaninmel Kali, Velakanni, Parisa Kali, Angamaly St. Joseph’s Rope Martial Arts, and Marma Kalari. You can learn more about these martial arts at martial art schools, cultural centers, or temples.
Kerala has a unique culture, and a rich history that is worth exploring. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or love adventure sports, Kerala has something to offer. We hope these tips will help you plan a great solo trip to Kerala.
Embarking on a solo journey is a gratifying endeavor that empowers you to craft your ideal itinerary without the need for input from others. The readiness to explore alone becomes invaluable when envisioning an adventure, even if persuading friends or family to accompany you proves challenging.
May these suggestions serve as inspiration for orchestrating your upcoming Solo Trip to Kerala. Traveling solo in this accessible and diverse region is a seamless experience, catering to a wide range of preferences and ensuring a satisfying adventure for most individuals.
