Overview of Karnataka
Kerala is a beautiful state in southern India, often called “God’s Own Country.” It lies between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, making it rich in natural beauty. The state is famous for its backwaters, beaches, hill stations, and lush greenery. The backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom are major attractions where visitors can enjoy peaceful houseboat rides. Beaches like Kovalam and Varkala are popular for their scenic views and calm atmosphere, while hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad offer cool weather, tea gardens, and waterfalls.
Kerala is also known for its rich culture and traditions. The classical dance forms Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, along with festivals such as Onam and Vishu, reflect its vibrant heritage. The people of Kerala are warm, educated, and friendly, with the state having the highest literacy rate in India.
Cuisine is another highlight — dishes like appam, puttu, and spicy fish curry are loved by all. Kerala is also famous for Ayurveda, attracting visitors seeking natural healing and wellness. With its natural charm, cultural richness, and peaceful lifestyle, Kerala is a place where nature and tradition live in perfect harmony, making it one of India’s most loved tourist destinations.
Why visit Kerala
Natural Beauty: Lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and a peaceful environment.
Backwaters: Enjoy houseboat cruises in Alleppey and Kumarakom.
Beaches: Relax at Kovalam, Varkala, and Bekal beaches.
Hill Stations: Visit Munnar and Wayanad for tea gardens and cool weather.
Wildlife: Explore sanctuaries like Periyar and Silent Valley.
Ayurveda: Experience traditional Ayurvedic treatments and wellness therapies.
Culture & Festivals: Enjoy Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Onam, and Vishu celebrations.
Cuisine: Taste delicious Kerala dishes like appam, puttu, and fish curry.
Peaceful Lifestyle: Calm, clean, and perfect for relaxation.
People & Hospitality: Friendly locals and one of India’s most literate states.
Kerala has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. Known for its spice trade, it attracted merchants from Arabia, Rome, Greece, and China, making it an important trading center in South India. The region was once ruled by the Chera dynasty, followed by the Kulasekhara and Travancore kingdoms, each contributing to its political and cultural growth. Later, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British established their presence along Kerala’s coastline, influencing its trade and architecture. After India’s independence, Kerala was formed in 1956 by merging Travancore, Cochin, and Malabar regions.
Kerala’s culture is deeply rooted in its traditions, religion, and arts. The state is known for its classical dance forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Theyyam, which reflect its spiritual and artistic heritage. Festivals such as Onam, Vishu, and Thrissur Pooram showcase Kerala’s unity, joy, and devotion. The people here follow different religions—Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam—and live in harmony. Kerala is also world-famous for Ayurveda, handicrafts, temple architecture, and literature. Its high literacy rate and love for art and nature make it a symbol of cultural richness and progress. Together, Kerala’s history and culture create a unique identity that blends ancient traditions with modern values.
Best time to visit Kerala
The best time to visit Kerala is from October to March, when the weather is cool, pleasant, and perfect for sightseeing, beaches, and backwater cruises.
Winter (October – March): Ideal for exploring hill stations, beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries. The temperature stays between 18°C to 30°C.
Monsoon (June – September): Best for enjoying lush green landscapes and Ayurvedic treatments, as the rains make the state fresh and beautiful.
Summer (April – May): Hot and humid in most areas, but pleasant in hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.
Top attractions in Kerala
Munnar
Munnar a beautiful hill station with tea gardens and cool weather.
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey (Alappuzha) Famous for backwaters and houseboat cruises.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom known for bird sanctuary and scenic backwaters.
Kovalam
Kovalam Popular beach destination with golden sands and water sports.
Wayanad
Wayanad Hill district with waterfalls, wildlife, and trekking trails.
Thekkady (Periyar)
Thekkady (Periyar) Famous for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and boat safaris.
Kochi (Cochin)
Kochi (Cochin) a historic port city with Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, and spice markets.
Thrissur
Thrissur cultural capital, known for temples and the grand Thrissur Pooram festival.
Kerala cuisine
Appam with Stew – Soft rice pancakes served with vegetable or chicken stew.
Puttu and Kadala Curry – Steamed rice flour and coconut dish with spicy black chickpeas curry.
Kerala Sadya – A grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves, usually during festivals like Onam.
Fish Curry – Spicy and tangy, made with tamarind and coconut milk.
Malabar Parotta with Chicken Curry – Flaky layered bread with flavorful curry.
Idiyappam – String hoppers often served with coconut milk or curry.
Payasam – Sweet dessert made from rice, milk, and jaggery.
Shopping in Kerala
Lulu Mall, Kochi – India’s largest mall for branded shopping.
Broadway Market, Kochi – Famous for spices and handicrafts.
Chalai Bazaar, Thiruvananthapuram – Traditional market for spices and textiles.
Munnar Market – Known for tea, coffee, and homemade chocolates.
Mattancherry & Jew Town, Fort Kochi – Best for antiques and souvenirs.
SM Street, Kozhikode – Popular for halwa, spices, and local goods.
Kumily Market, Thekkady – Famous for fresh spices and Ayurveda products.
Where to stay
Kochi: Luxury hotels and boutique stays near Fort Kochi and Marine Drive.
Munnar: Hill resorts and tea estate cottages with scenic views.
Alleppey & Kumarakom: Houseboats and lakeside resorts on the backwaters.
Thekkady: Jungle lodges and eco-resorts near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Wayanad: Treehouses, farm stays, and nature resorts amid forests.
Kovalam & Varkala: Beach resorts and Ayurvedic wellness centers.
How to reach Kerala
By Train
Kerala is well connected by rail to all major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
Major railway stations: Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam (Kochi), Kozhikode, and Alappuzha.
By Air
Kerala has four international airports offering excellent connectivity:
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport – for South Kerala.
Cochin International Airport (Kochi) – centrally located, most flights land here.
Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode) – for North Kerala.
Kannur International Airport – for Malabar region and Wayanad.
By Road
Kerala is connected by National Highways to neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Regular KSRTC and private buses run from Bengaluru, Coimbatore, and Chennai.
Roads are scenic and ideal for road trips, especially along the coast and hill routes.
Travel tips
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
Stay Hydrated: Kerala can be humid, so drink plenty of water.
Light Clothing: Wear cotton clothes and comfortable footwear.
Mosquito Repellent: Useful, especially in backwater and forest areas.
Try Local Food: Don’t miss Kerala Sadya, Appam, and Fish Curry — but be mindful of spice levels.
Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, especially in temples and religious sites.
Book Houseboats Early: Alleppey and Kumarakom are popular, so reserve in advance.
Use Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, cabs, or rented scooters are convenient for short trips.
Monsoon Travel: Carry rain gear if visiting between June and September.
Experience Ayurveda: Try authentic Ayurvedic massages and treatments.
Eco-friendly Travel: Avoid plastic and help keep Kerala clean and green.