Travel time: Year-round
Bekal, located on the serene northern coast of Kerala, experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by high humidity, consistent temperatures, and dramatic rainy seasons. Flanked by the Arabian Sea, the region’s weather is heavily influenced by maritime winds, which play a crucial role in moderating the heat during the summer months and bringing the life-giving South-West Monsoon.
A typical day in Bekal follows a predictable cycle. Mornings are often the most pleasant, with the coolest temperatures occurring between 4:00 AM and 6:00 AM. As the sun rises, the heat builds steadily, peaking around 3:00 PM. Even during the hotter months, a consistent sea breeze typically sets in by mid-afternoon, providing a natural cooling effect that makes the evenings significantly more comfortable. Humidity remains a constant companion, typically hovering between 60% and 90% depending on the season, which makes the air feel "heavier" and temperatures feel roughly 3-5°C warmer than the actual thermometer reading.
This is widely considered the most favorable time to experience Bekal. Temperatures are at their most moderate, ranging from a low of 20°C (68°F) at night to a high of 31°C (88°F) during the day. The skies are generally clear and sunny, providing the best conditions for exploring the iconic Bekal Fort or walking the long stretches of sand. Relative humidity is at its lowest during January (around 55%), making the air feel crisp and revitalizing.
As the region transitions into summer, temperatures climb, occasionally reaching up to 36°C (97°F). March and April are the warmest months. While the heat is high, it is a "steady" summer; the coastal winds prevent the extreme dry heat found in northern India. This is a period of high sunshine hours, but the increasing humidity in late April often signals the coming of the pre-monsoon showers.
The South-West Monsoon arrives in early June, bringing torrential rainfall that transforms the landscape into a vibrant, lush green. July is historically the wettest month, often receiving over 1,000mm of rain. During this time, the sea becomes rough and dramatic, making it unsuitable for swimming, but providing a breathtaking backdrop for the fort. The air is misty and fresh, and temperatures drop to a comfortable 24°C to 28°C.
As the main monsoon retreats, the region experiences intermittent showers from the North-East Monsoon. The intensity of rain decreases, and the vegetation remains at its peak lushness. This transition period sees temperatures begin to stabilize as the humidity starts to drop, ushering in the cooler winter months.
Because of its coastal positioning, Bekal experiences a distinct "marine layer" effect. The immediate shoreline can be 2-3°C cooler than areas just five miles inland due to the direct impact of the Arabian Sea breezes. One specific phenomenon is the "Mist" often seen in the early mornings during the post-monsoon and early winter months, where the humid air meets cooler ground temperatures, creating a dreamlike haze over the backwaters and fort walls.
Historically, the locals have built their lives around these cycles. Traditional architecture in the region features high ceilings and deep porches (verandas) to encourage airflow and provide shade. The monsoon is not just a weather event but a cultural season; it is traditionally a time for rejuvenation and Ayurvedic treatments, as the cool, moist atmosphere is believed to be ideal for the body to absorb healing oils. Locals experience the monsoon with a mix of reverence and preparation, as the heavy rains can occasionally disrupt travel but are essential for the region's coconut and spice plantations.