Kerala, popularly referred as "God's own Country" among tourists, is one of the best destinations in India which is ideal for spending a memorable vacation. Tourists from faraway lands are lured to this exotic land that offers them some spectacular sceneries and more unforgettable experiences. Tranquil beaches; Stunning backwaters; Majestic Hill stations; Wide range of Biodiversity; Waterfalls; Lush greenery; Ayurveda treatments; Exotic art forms; Captivating culture; Warm hospitality; Rich heritage; Delicious cuisines; Everything about Kerala is simply special and unique.
Area: 38,863 sq. km
Founded on: 1 November 1956
Founded by: Government of India
Location: The Indian State of Kerala is situated on Malabar Coast in the South-West region of the country.
Languages Spoken: English, Malayalam, Hindi
Famous Cuisines: Idli, Aviyal, Karimeen Fry, Puttu, Olan, Sambar, Sadya, Parippu, Thoran, Fish curry, Upperi, Pachadi, Pappadam, Kichadi, Tapioca, Payasam, Appam, Dosa, Idiyappam
The history of Kerala revolves around spice plantations. Ever since 300 BC, Kerala existed as the leading spice. This was the reason that attracted various ancient civilizations to the state including Egyptians, Assyrians and Babylonians. The spice plantations were ruled by Phoenicians and Arabs during this time as per the records of Sumerian.
Vasco De Gama's entry in India, in early 15th century, put Portuguese on top of spice traders in Kerala. But later problems occurred between Portuguese and Zamorin and caused conflicts. Portuguese aligned with King of Kochi and built new fortresses at Malabar Coast. But, finally they were defeated by Zamorin forces at Chaliyam fort. They were then completely ousted by Dutch East India Company who then took over the spice trade. Dutch then lost control at Battle of Colachel in 1741.
Despite constant attacks by Hyder Ali, the King of Mysore, in mid 18th Century, British East India Company took over the entire state of Kerala.
Kerala saw major rebellion movements in 20th century including the famous 1921 Malabar Rebellion and 1946 Punnapra-Vayalar Uprising.
Kerala was formed after independence, on 1 November 1956, by the merging of nearby Malayalam speaking districts. By next year, first Kerala Legislative Assembly elections took place which put E. M. S. Namboodiripad, a communist in power in Kerala.
The Indian State of Kerala has over the years received various accolades. The honor of being included in to 6 destinations of the millennium by Khaleej Times, the tag of one of the 50 must-see destinations of a lifetime by National Geographic Travel and also the title "State of Enlightenment" by National Geographic are some of the noteworthy accomplishments.
With 100% literacy rate, best medical facilities all across the world and highest life expectancy rate in the country; Kerala has earned the reputation as India's best most developed destination. Everything one sees about Kerala on television, newspaper, magazines or internet is absolutely spot-on: the state is maintained with utmost care and is country's most beautiful and cleanest state.
The enchanting land of Kerala is truly defined as "God's own Country". The locations in and around the state are actually tropical paradise.
If one needs to understand how Kerala took over Taj Mahal to become the top tourist destination of India in Google's search trends, then all one needs to do is pack his/her bag and visit this amazing location. Kerala tours have never disappointed anyone, and they certainly will not change this trend for you as well.
Every tour to Kerala is a surprise package in itself. There is so much to do in and around Kerala that entices tourists from every possible corner of the world. Take a look!
The stunning Kerala backwaters are ideal for spending vacations amidst a relaxed environment. Additionally, the pristine beaches in Kerala make the God's Own Country a perfect holiday destination for all. The beauty of these beaches and backwaters surrounded by misty hills and swaying coconut palms is simply mind-blowing.
For foodies, Kerala is the place to be. The seafood here is very delicious and is cooked using traditional cooking techniques. One of the favorite cuisines of Kerala that preferred by the majority of tourists is Sadya. Food is served here on banana leaves to maintain the authentic taste of Kerala.
Kerala is also known for offering special Ayurvedic retreats which are rated the best in the world. The tourists coming here for relaxing vacations will love to spend their days at Kerala Ayurveda Spa and Resorts. The best season to visit Kerala for Ayurveda treatments is monsoon. It also offers a blissful escape from the dull city life.
Kerala also focuses a lot on ecotourism activities. Everybody ensures that the ecosystem in Kerala is not disturbed. Tourists are taught how to ensure that the natural surroundings of Kerala remain intact and how they can contribute to preserve the ecosystem while doing small things efficiently.
The idea of living in a house which is built on the top of trees sounds adventurous and delightful at the same time. Once can actually experience this while staying at a tree house in Kerala. Surrounded by lush greenery, these tree houses are made up of local eco-friendly materials. Spending days here is a major highlight of a Kerala tour.
The traditional houseboats in Kerala or Kettuvallams are the best to sail across the placid backwaters. An ideal place to stay, these houseboats offer matchless experiences. With this kind of isolation and love in the air, the newlywed couples can make their honeymoons tour in Kerala special.
Kerala is known all over the world for various dance forms which include Kathakali, Thullal, Mohiniyattam, Krishnanattam and Koodiyattom. Also, the Carnatic music and the classical musical forms of Sopana Sangeetham are famous amongst the lovers of folk music of Kerala.
music and the classical musical form of Sopana Sangeetham are famous folk music of Kerala.
The traditional sports like Snake Boat Race, Padayani, Poorakkali, Thalappandukali, Parichamuttukali, Onathallu, Kilithattukal, Velakali, etc. are now performed specially for tourists during major Kerala festivals in Kerala. Kalaripayattu, which is called the "mother of all martial arts in the world" outstands amongst the rest of the sports in Kerala and is practiced by the locals who participate in tournaments.
The key aspect of Kerala that separates it from every other location in the world is the friendly crowd over there. One often hears about "Kerala hospitality", but experiencing it for real is a different matter altogether. The people of Kerala are jovial in nature and it is very easy to strike a polite conversation with natives.
People of Kerala believe in celebrating festivals and fairs all-round the year with much joy and merriment. Major festivals in Kerala include Onam, Pongal and Navratra when the large crowd comes out to celebrate the fiestas together. Some major fairs in Kerala include Nishagandhi Dance and Music Fair and Kerala Village Fair.
There are several small and large waterfalls in Kerala. Tourists love to plan an excursion or spend a relaxing picnic time with their loved ones amidst these gorgeous cascades. Listening to the sounds of the water plunging down at enormous speed from a very huge height is a captivating experience.
The majestic hill stations of Kerala are gorgeous. For those who wish to be surrounded by tranquility, serenity and peaceful environment, these hill stations offer a heavenly experience. Witness the nature's beauty at its best on these hill stations located thousands of meters above the sea level.
Kerala is an idyllic retreat for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Because of 2 National Parks and 12 Wildlife Sanctuaries that are situated amidst the verdant expanse of forests of the Western Ghats in Kerala, the place amazing wildlife holidays. Tourist can spot varied rare and endangered species of plants, reptiles, birds, insects and animals during their wildlife tours.
One of the most adrenaline pumping features of 'God's Own Country' is the boat races in Kerala on the backwaters. These races are symbolic of unity, diversity, team spirit and integration of local Kerala people. The vibrant and energetic population gives a new life to the calm backwaters during these snake boat races.
India is popularly called as Land of Temples and Kerala pilgrimage sites play a major role in promoting this aspect of the country. Since, the state houses people belonging to Hindu, Muslim and Christianity religions, there are several temples, mosques and churches in the state. Some of the most sacred religious shrines are in Kerala including Rameshwara temple, Malik Deenar Mosque and Jewish Synagogue. Embarking on a pilgrimage tour in Kerala spiritually awakens you from within.
The story of Kerala started from spice plantations. And even today, Kerala is the leading trader of spices. It is obvious that these gorgeous lush green locations form a key feature for tourists to plan a visit. These spices form a staple ingredient in Kerala dishes as well. Some of the commonly used Kerala spices include Pepper, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Clove, Curry Leaves, etc. Besides, the spice plantations in Kerala presents a visual retreat.
The reason why tourists visit the state of Kerala with higher fluency than any other destination is because of the numerous accommodation facilities in the state. From budget hotels to top quality 5-star hotels, Kerala fulfills any and every kind of accommodation requirement of the travelers.
