What to know about an April Vacation in South India

Photo by: Kerala Tourism

When considering a vacation to South India in April we guess you might be interested in knowing about what to expect in terms of climate, crowds and events. This article should help get you there.
 

What is the weather like in South India in April?

April is part of the summer season of South India. The hills of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are welcoming being a big relief from the hot dusty summers in the rest of India. Other parts of Tamil nadu and Karnataka generally have hot winds which greatly affect human comfort during this season. Goa is best kept away from. Kerala is still manageable with the variety of destinations to visit.

Summers start and it gets a bit humid. The hills are of great solace in these times

The average rainfall is dramatically lower than the monsoons but you can expect some short summer showers in the evening especially in Kerala. The below graphic will give you an idea of the weather throughout the year. 

 

Vacation Prices & Crowds for South India in April

April is the traditional shoulder season of travel in South India. The crowds are certainly less than the peak periods. The major attraction is the Thrissur Pooram in Kerala which attracts crowds from all over the globe. The hill stations of South India like Ooty, Kodaikanal, Vagamon, Munnar and Yercaud will see crowds flocking to them to beat the summers. The prices here are certainly higher. The plains will offer you discounted rates.

The hill destinations are priced above average and so are cultural event venues. Otherwise rates taper

As per our analysis of the cycle of Kerala resort/hotel rates, April is a relatively inexpensive time to visit Kerala and South India in general. However the prices of hotels at the venue of major events will certainly skyrocket. 

 

The flight rates to South India for the month of April are amongst the lowest in the yearly cycle. Only summer vacation travellers with family create a small push but otherwise as it is off the peak tourism season, rates are favourable. 
 

Are there any special reasons to go to South India in April?

Kerala is a happening place in April especially with local festivals like Vishu happening. From a travellers perspective here are some events you should seriously consider while planning a tour in April.

Goa in April

Goa food and cultural festival

This is a goan summer festival with 5 days of revelry with food, entertainment and drinks. Besides the best of cuisine being showcased, some of the best bands in the nation come to perform here. With the onset of summers, good flow of domestic and internationals tourist fill the venues.

Location: Campal, Panaji, Goa

Estimate date: Mid April

Kerala in April

Thrissur Pooram

The most spectacular festival event on the planet says UNESCO about the Thrissur Pooram. Here is snapshot – a 36 hour festival, 30 odd caparisoned elephants on parade, 250 artists creating a percussion ensemble and fireworks all through the night! This is the biggest event in Kerala’s social calendar so don’t miss it.

Venue: Thekkinkadu Ground, Vadakumnathan Temple

Location: Thrissur, Kerala

Estimate date: Mid - April to Early May depending on local calendar

Nenmara Vallangi Vela

This is a celebration of the friendly rivalry of two neighbouring towns. It is a festival of art forms, the finest elephant processions, fireworks, competitive percussion orchestra (melams) and more. The fireworks here are a major attraction. It is touted to be the best among other festivals in Kerala.

Venue: Nellikulangara Bhagavathy temple

Location: Nemmara, Palakkad, Kerala

Estimate date: First week of April (20th Meenam on Malayalam Calendar)

Kadammanitta Padayani

This is an annual ritualistic art form that is rooted in legends related to Goddess Bhadrakali. Kadammanitta Padayani performance is famous for its burst of energy, colour and passionate devotion. This rare performance is an absolute thrill for the audience.

Venue: Kadammanitta Devi Temple

Location: Pathanamthitta, Kerala

Estimate date: Last week of April

Have you been to South India in April? How was your experience? If there is something that we have missed or needs updates, feel free to drop a comment. Our intention is to provide the most useful/updated resources for travel planning in this part of the world. Join the conversation with your suggestions for travellers in our comments section below.

This article is part of our month-by-month analysis to help you determine the best times to visit Kerala and South India in general. Check out these links for the other months covered in this series here:January, February, March, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December.