Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a state in the southern part of India known for its serene landscapes, rich culture, and unique traditions
Nestled in the southwestern corner of India, Kerala is a state renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich traditions. Known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is a tropical paradise characterized by its lush landscapes, backwaters, hills, beaches, and diverse ecosystems. From serene houseboats cruising through backwaters to the spice-scented hills of Munnar, Kerala offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure.
Kerala is blessed with a variety of natural settings:
•Backwaters: The intricate network of lagoons, lakes, and canals creates the famous Kerala backwaters, offering a unique experience of staying on houseboats.
•Hill Stations: The cool, misty hills of Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady are perfect for exploring tea plantations, spice gardens, and wildlife sanctuaries.
•Beaches: The state has a long coastline along the Arabian Sea, with popular beaches like Kovalam, Varkala, and Marari.
•Wildlife: Kerala is home to diverse wildlife sanctuaries, including Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.
Kerala’s culture is a blend of Dravidian and Aryan influences and is known for traditional art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, etc.
Kerala celebrates a variety of festivals including Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram with much fanfare.
Kerala’s cuisine is a tantalizing blend of spices, coconut, rice, and seafood. Popular dishes include Appam with Stew, Puttu and Kadala Curry, Sadya and Kerala Fish Curry.
Kerala’s charm lies in its diversity. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous trek through the hills, a rejuvenating Ayurvedic retreat, or a cultural immersion, Kerala has it all. The blend of tradition, nature, and modernity ensures that every visitor experiences something unique and unforgettable.
By Air
Kerala has four international airports:
1. Cochin International Airport (COK) – Located in Kochi, the busiest airport.
2. Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) – Located in the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram.
3. Calicut International Airport (CCJ) – Serving northern Kerala.
4. Kannur International Airport (CNN) – The newest airport serving northern Kerala.
By Train
Kerala is well connected by rail to major cities across India. Key railway stations include Ernakulam Junction (Kochi), Trivandrum Central (Thiruvananthapuram), Kozhikode, Alleppey and Kottayam
Numerous trains operate daily between Kerala and cities like Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi.
By Road
Kerala is accessible via a well-connected network of highways. The major National Highways passing through Kerala include NH 66 (Mumbai to Kanyakumari) and NH 544 (Salem to Kochi).
By Sea
Kochi has a port that receives cruise ships, making it a gateway for sea travelers. The backwaters and lakes offer a unique way of traveling within the state.
How to reach Kerala?
Kerala has a variety of Airports, Stations and road connectivity. Please refer to “How to reach” section for more information.
What are Kerala’s backwaters?
Kerala’s backwaters are a network of lakes, rivers, and canals running parallel to the Arabian Sea. Houseboat cruises in destinations like Alleppey and Kumarakom are the best way to experience the beauty of the backwaters.
What are the unique experiences one must try in Kerala?
Some of the unique experiences include Houseboat Stay, Ayurvedic Spa, Tea Plantation Tour, Kathakali Performance & Boat Race during Onam.
What is the typical duration for a Kerala trip?
A typical Kerala trip can range from 5 to 10 days, depending on how many destinations are included.
Can I visit Kerala during the monsoon?
Yes, monsoon (June to September) is an off-season for tourism but an ideal time for Ayurvedic treatments and nature lovers who enjoy the rain-washed landscapes.