Travel Advisory for Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka

Recent warnings for travellers

Service status

General Advice

Health and Safety

1. Water and Food Safety: Drink bottled or filtered water. Avoid ice cubes, pickles, ready to eat fruits and vegetables from vendors selling in unhygienic conditions.
2. Insect Protection: Use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes especially in city areas.
3. Personal Medications: Carry enough prescription medications for the duration of your trip, along with copies of your prescriptions.

Weather and Clothing

1. Climate: Kerala has a tropical climate. The monsoon season is from June to September and the state experiences heavy rains.
2. Clothing: Pack light, breathable clothing for hot and humid weather. Include rain gear if traveling during the monsoon season.

Cultural Sensitivity

1. Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites.
2. Respect Local Customs: Be aware of and respect local customs and traditions, particularly in rural areas and places of worship.

Travel and Transportation

1. Public Transport: Has an extensive public transport system, including buses, trains, and auto-rickshaws. Familiarize yourself with routes and schedules. In Kerala, public transportation uses place names for route identification. Check route maps and schedules to ensure you are on the correct service.
2. Driving: If you plan to drive, ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Road conditions can be challenging for foreign drivers due to poor road standards and inadequate road signs. Be cautious of variable road conditions, heavy traffic, and local driving practices.
3. Parking: Parking can be very limited, especially in busy cities and tourist areas. Parking areas may vary in quality, with some being poorly maintained or congested.
4. Strikes: Kerala has experienced periodic strikes or “bandhs” in the past, which can affect travel plans, mostly between 9 am and 6 pm; however, these are usually peaceful, and it is recommended to stay inside your hotel during these times.

Accommodation

1. Booking: Pre-book accommodations, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals.
2. Safety: Choose reputable hotels or homestays. Check reviews and ratings before booking.

Communication

1. SIM Card: Consider buying a local SIM card for your phone to stay connected.
2. Emergency Numbers: Save important emergency numbers such as local police, ambulance, and your country’s embassy.

Money and Transactions

1. Currency: Carry sufficient local currency, especially in rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. Mutilated or damaged currency is not accepted in shops and can be exchanged easily from a bank. It’s advisable to carry smaller denominations of ₹ 100 and ₹ 50.
2. ATMs and Cards: Major cities and tourist areas have ATMs and accept credit/debit cards. Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid card issues.

Facilities

1. Toilets: Public toilets can vary in cleanliness and availability. It’s a good idea to carry hand sanitizer and toilet paper or tissues, as these amenities mostly not provided. Keep small change handy for using public toilets at city centers, bus stations, and railway stations, as these facilities often require a small fee of ₹ 5 or ₹ 10. Using facilities in airports, metro stations, hotels, restaurants, or shopping centers often ensures cleanliness and better standards.
2. Pedestrian walkways: Pedestrian walkways can be inconsistent and are often not suitable for strollers. Expect uneven surfaces and occasional obstructions, and stay cautious when walking in busy or less developed areas. When carrying kids, consider using a baby carrier.

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