Kerala: AKA God’s Own Country -

Kerala is located in the southern part of India and is often referred to as “God’s Own Country” for its enchanting landscapes, vibrant culture, and serene backwaters. From misty hill stations to pristine beaches, Kerala offers an experience unlike any other. Known for its Ayurveda, houseboats, and mouthwatering cuisine, Kerala is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking tranquility and cultural richness.

Why Visit Kerala?

Kerala is one of the books. It is rich is its scenic beauty and filled filled palm-lined beaches. Kerala is also known for ‘Ayurveda’(Indian approach to holistic medicine) . Rejuvenate with traditional therapies at an Ayurvedic spa in Kerala. The price of the spa package will depend on the package chosen and the stay.

Experience the beauty of houseboats in Alleppey and Kumarakom. If wildlife safaris is something you enjoy, visit Periyar and Silent Valley National Parks. If you’re a beach bum, you will find peace on the beaches of Varkala, Kovalam and Marari. You can also opt to trek on trails like Chembra Peak and Agasthyakoodam.

You cannot miss the lush tree plantations situated in Munnar. Kerala is also one of the biggest producers of spices. They have large plantations that include different spices like ginger, cloves and cardomom. Other than spices, they also have large fields of rice, coconuts, cashews, rubber and coffee.

Top Cities to visit in Kerala

1. Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)

Padmanabhaswamy Temple: A historic Vishnu temple with stunning architecture.
Kovalam Beach: Known for its lighthouse and serene shoreline.
Napier Museum: Showcasing Kerala’s art and cultural history.

2. Kochi (Cochin)

Fort Kochi: A historic area with Chinese fishing nets and colonial-era buildings.
Jewish Synagogue: One of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth.
Mattancherry Palace: Known as the Dutch Palace, featuring murals and artifacts.

3. Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Backwaters: Famous for houseboat cruises through tranquil canals.
Alleppey Beach: Perfect for relaxation and sunset views.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race: A thrilling snake boat race held annually.

4. Munnar

Tea Gardens: Endless rolling hills covered in tea plantations.
Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Mattupetty Dam: A scenic spot for picnics and boating.

5. Wayanad

Edakkal Caves: Prehistoric caves with ancient petroglyphs.
Chembra Peak: A popular trekking destination with a heart-shaped lake.
Banasura Sagar Dam: India’s largest earthen dam.

6. Thekkady

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Famous for elephants and tiger sightings.
Spice Plantations: Guided tours showcasing cardamom, pepper, and coffee cultivation.
Boating: Explore the Periyar Lake surrounded by lush greenery.

7. Kovalam

Beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach are major attractions.
Ayurvedic Treatments: Renowned centers offering rejuvenation therapies.
Water Sports: Activities like surfing and parasailing.

8. Varkala

Papanasam Beach: Known for its natural spring and dramatic cliffs.
Janardhana Swamy Temple: A 2,000-year-old temple.
Ayurveda: Popular destination for wellness retreats.

9. Thrissur

Thrissur Pooram: Kerala’s grandest temple festival.
Vadakkunnathan Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Athirappilly Waterfalls: Often called the “Niagara of India.”

10. Kannur

Theyyam Performances: A traditional ritualistic art form.
Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach: India’s only drive-in beach.
St. Angelo Fort: A historic fort with a stunning view of the Arabian Sea.

11. Kozhikode (Calicut)

Kappad Beach: Where Vasco da Gama first landed in India.
Mananchira Square: A serene park in the heart of the city.
Sweet Street (Mithai Theruvu): Known for its unique Malabar sweets.

12. Palakkad

Palakkad Fort: A well-preserved 18th-century fort.
Silent Valley National Park: A biodiversity hotspot with rare flora and fauna.
Malampuzha Dam and Gardens: A scenic spot for families.

13. Kollam

Ashtamudi Lake: The gateway to Kerala’s backwaters.
Jatayu Earth’s Center: A unique rock sculpture and adventure park.
Thangassery Lighthouse: Offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

14. Kottayam

Vembanad Lake: Ideal for houseboat rides and bird watching.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A paradise for bird lovers.
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple: Known for its traditional Kerala architecture.

15. Kasaragod

Bekal Fort: A seaside fort with stunning views.
Chandragiri Fort: Offers a serene sunset experience.
Ananthapura Lake Temple: The only lake temple in Kerala.

Must-Try Food in Kerala

Appam with Stew: A rice pancake served with coconut-based curry.
Puttu and Kadala Curry: A traditional breakfast dish.
Malabar Parotta: Flaky bread paired with spicy curries.
Kerala Sadya: A festive vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf.
Seafood: Fresh fish, prawns, and crab cooked in coconut oil.
Payasam: A sweet dessert made with milk, jaggery, and rice.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

Winter (October to February): Ideal for sightseeing and backwater cruises.
Monsoon (June to September): Perfect for Ayurveda treatments and lush greenery.

Kerala is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you. Whether it’s cruising the backwaters, exploring ancient temples, or savoring the rich flavors of its cuisine, Kerala offers a slice of paradise for every traveler. The state’s warm hospitality, coupled with its natural and cultural treasures, ensures that visitors leave with cherished memories. So pack your bags and immerse yourself in the magic of God’s Own Country!