Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala, India

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala, India

Kerala, the south Indian state between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, is one of the most popular tourist destinations all around the world. Blessed with timeless natural wonders like wildlife, mountains, rivers, backwaters, lakes, hill stations, plains, plantations- it charms both local as well as international tourists. The state boasts of several destinations, each with its own unique features, that makes them all perfect places to explore. These Kerala destinations are explored by tourists throughout the year.

Kerala, Top tourist destination in India - an Overview
Kerala is a beautiful state that conjures up the image of pristine green foliage, interlinked channels of canals, backwater and rivers, fishing boats returning at sunset, rich temples with its traditional practices and one of the most friendly, jovial and laid back people in India. These are just a few reasons which make the state a popular tourist destination of India and World. This socialist state is a successful model of socialism in India and its proper implementation sees the highest literacy rate in India. The geographical diversity is vast as the state is blessed with sheer cliffs of Western Ghats in the Northern Malabar and the eastern portion is covered by Nilgiri and Palni Hills. The southern region is full of green foliage and a channel of interlinked canals, rivers and lakes all separated from the Arabian Sea by narrow strip of land and some of the most pristine white sand beaches of World are present here.

The rich diversity resulted in vast tracts of precious natural ecological parks where one can see many endangered variety of wildlife and is a heaven for nature lovers. The state has its own cuisine and culture, which may sometime look similar to the rest of the south Indian states but; yet very distinctive from them. The demographics include people of ethnic Arabic Muslims, Syrian Christians, and Traditional Hindus. 

The state capital is Trivandrum and is one of India’s most well maintained cities. Other important cities like Cochin, Kozhikode, Alleppey, Kottayam are now growing at a fast pace. The state is rich in culture and heritage; full of churches, mosques, temples and heritage buildings. All result of a unique cultural fusion which is evident in all parts of the state. Ayurveda treatment and spa is spread in every nook and corner of the state. Kathakali, a traditional and classical Indian Dance form is highly revered by the locals and is the most famous cultural export of Kerala. Kalarippayattu is one of the world’s ancient martial arts and is quite gravity defying and is a must watch thing of Kerala.

This is a place where whatever you do you are rest assured of a memorable experience. Cruise along the pristine backwater of Alapuzha in houseboat or watch the most magnificent sunset bathed in an orange tinge; Enjoy the vast stretch of pristine white sand beaches covered with swaying palm trees like Varkala and Kovalam or enjoy fresh coffee while admiring the beautiful hill station of mist clad Munnar. Enjoy a river cruise in Periyar River admiring the rich flora and Fauna of the state or simply relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Ayurveda treatment. Visit the local temple and shared the deep beliefs of devoted Hindus, watch a charming cultural performance of Kathakali and Mohiniyattom, learn about the gravity defying stunts of Kalarippayattu and savour the local cuisine. Kerala will be an experience of lifetime for any visitor. This is why the Kerala takes pride in calling itself as ‘the God’s own country’.

Some of the best Kerala Tourism destinations are:

Thiruvananthapuram
Previously known as Trivandrum, this laid-back capital of Kerala has an easy-going old world charm. Places worth seeing while in Thiruvananthapuram, are the Padmanabhapuram Palace, the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and the Puttan Malika Palace where the maharajas of Travancore held court. The museum at the palace displays historical artifacts and exquisite paintings by Raja Ravi Verma. Many buildings in Thiruvananthapuram display the traditional architecture of Kerala, with tiled roofs, carved wooden pillars and large verandahs overlooking green lawns. English is commonly spoken across Kerala and the pleasant climate of this city makes a tour of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, a relaxing and enjoyable trip.

Kovalam
This group of three crescent shaped beaches is known as one of the best beach resorts in India. With clean sandy stretches, opportunities for water sports and Ayurvedic masseurs offering their services to visitors alongside the beach, you're sure to enjoy a relaxing vacation in this idyllic beach paradise.

Kochi
Previously known as Cochin, this important port city is known for the Chinese Fishing nets seen in its harbor and for its legendary spices including pepper, which were exported from Cochin to the West. With many foreign powers setting up trading houses in this city, the architecture of Kochi reflects this international influence. Fort Cochin, the St. Francis Church, the spice market and the Jewish Synagogue are places to see on your tour of Kochi. A sunset cruise in Kochi harbor where you see the sun dip below the sea and the last rays of light silhouette the Chinese fishing nets is an experience that's not to be missed when you travel to Kochi.

Kerala Backwaters
Traveling on a houseboat, through a quiet world of wind and water, with no noises but the swaying of the palm trees, the birds calling to each other and the sound of water splashing against the hull of your boat. Before you sleep at night, you can try to count the myriad stars in the clear sky above you, on the backwaters of Kerala. The waterways that connect the villages along the backwaters, reveal fascinating glimpses of village life in Kerala - you can see children running alongside, fields being ploughed and fishing eagles and cormorants diving for fish, as you drift along on a backwater cruise in Kerala. Most cruises are organized around Alleppey, Kuttanad and Kochi in Kerala.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary in the Idukki district of Kerala, is set around the Periyar Lake - an artificial lake created by a dam on the Periyar River. Originally the royal hunting ground of the Maharajas of Travancore, Periyar is now a protected national park. A boat cruise on the lake lets tourists observe the animals from nearby, as they come to the waters edge to drink. Herds of elephants come together and can be seen drinking, bathing and playing nears the water. Other wildlife that can be seen in Periyar include tigers, leopards, monkeys, nilgai, sloth bear, porcupine, the Malabar Flying Squirrel and many birds including the Great Indian Hornbill. The best time to visit Periyar is between December and April.

Allappuzha
Known for the annual snake boat races, hld in this sea saide town around the fetival of Onam, in Kerala, Allappuzha or Alleppey is transformed into a hub of excitement as tams of rowers power the swift snake boats called Chundanvalloms through the waters, competing for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race.

Thrissur
The temple festival at Thrissur is a grand event where two rows of magnificently decorated tuskers, stand facing each other while drummers beat out a traditional rhythm and representatives of the temple raise colored parasols over the elephants bearing the images of the deities of neighboring temples, is both an intense religious event and a colorful tourist attraction in Kerala.

Munnar
Located in the hill ranges of Kerala, Munnar is a vision in green. Some of the highest tea estates in Kerala can be seen in Munnar, as the hills surrounding this scenic town are carpeted with tea bushes, spice plantations and greenery. There are also opportunities for nature walks, trekking and bird watching tours in Munnar.

Ponmudi
This hillstation in the Western Ghats, located around 65 km from Thiruvananthapuram, is a picturesque getaway. The green hills, with winding roads, pretty cottages, and an abundance of birds and butterflies flying through the spice plantations and tea estates, make it an idyllic Kerala tourism destination. These are some of the well-known tourism destinations of Kerala. There are many more beaches, hill stations, and quiet getaways in Kerala where you can enjoy a relaxing holiday on tours of Kerala, India.

Thekkady
Thickly forested Thekkady is just the place for wildlife enthusiasts. Famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary located around the serene Periyar Lake, Thekkady enchants you with picturesque vistas and abundant wildlife. Tour spice plantations and see the attractions of spice plantations that envelop entire Thekkady in a delightfully aromatic mist. Tour Pullumedu , Ottakathalamedu and Kurusimala as you discover magical Thekkady and its myriad charms.

KERALA TOURISM, KERALA, TOURIST PLACES IN KERALA

Kerala Tourism 

Kerala tourist places are the most popular destinations in India. Kerala is well known for its Backwaters, Beaches, Wild life sanctuaries, Hill stations and Ayurvedic treatments. Kerala Beaches are spread along the 900 km Arabian Sea coastline and it become one of the main attraction in Kerala Tourism. The Kerala Backwaters are a network of interconnected brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. SightSeeing in Kerala is very interesting.

Munnar
Set at an altitude of 6000 feet in Idukki district, Munnar can boast of being the most notable hill station in Kerala. Nestled in the lush green Western Ghats, Munnar with its breathtaking beauty is a haven of tranquility and serenity, which makes it an ideal tourist destination, away from the hustle-bustle of the city life. The scenic locations, lush green surroundings, wildlife, extensive tea, cardamom and spice-plantations, rivers with crystal clear waters, several tourist attractions, attract a crazy number of tourists every year. It is believed that the name Munnar means ‘three rivers’ referring to the location of the town, established at the meeting point of the rivers Nallathanni, Madhurapuzha and Kundaly.

It is not just a famed hill resort, but is also a popular hot-spot amidst adventure-seekers. You can opt from innumerable things to do. The tea plantations are known for producing finest teas in the world. Munnar is also known for aromatic oil factories, various endangered species and the purple-blue Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once in every 12 years. It was also the special summer resort of the British during in the colonial days.

Alleppey
The gushing silvery waves of the humbling Arabian sea, welcome you to the town of Alleppey, now Alappuzha, the lifeline of the backwaters of Kerala. It is fondly referred to as ‘Venice of East’, because of being nestled by canals and other waterways. This water-locked district with its picturesque lakes, serene day to day life, sandy beach, well-fed canals flanked by palms and spectacular lagoons, attract a crazy number of tourists every year from all around the world.

Alleppey is considered to be the region’s oldest planned town. Tour to Kerala, minus a visit to the Alleppey backwaters is incomplete. The boundless landscape of the town of Alappuzha with tall coconut trees, green paddy fields, elongated canals and gleaming waters, form a delightful scenery for your eyes. Each and every attraction of Alleppey backwaters makes an amazing contribution to make your holiday, a memorable one.

Kumarakom
Kumarakom, located 13 kms away from the city of Kottayam is a small village set on the bank of the enchanting Vembanad Lake. Titled as the green paradise on earth, Kumarakom has been declared as a special Tourism Zone by the State Government of Kerala. The landscapes of this majestic destination are dotted with large number of palaces, forts and mansions which once had been the residence of royal lineage. The scenic hamlet is very popular amongst the tourists as it offers wide variety of exotic sightseeing, fishing and boating experience. Set at the backdrops of the Vembanad Lake and surrounded by a great variety of flora the place is bound to leave the visitors spell bound for its beauty.

Kovalam
Kovalam, situated 16 kms away from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram, offers excellent diversity with Kovalam beaches to suit all desires and occasions. The backdrops of Kovalam, by precipitously mounting headlands and the three carved shaped beaches, separated by the stony outcroppings, make for the highlights of this coastal resort. The clear water at the beaches with shallow bottoms up to a height of hundred meters makes Kovalam a swimmers’ heaven. The picturesque surroundings of Kovalam are renowned to be the first place in Kerala to be featured on the International tourism map in a big way. The pristine beaches of Kovalam are also popular for being lined with an array of shacks and shops offering all kinds of services like the curio shops, money changers, hawkers of Tibetan and Kashmiri products etc.

Thiruvananthapuram
Encircled by the Arabian Sea on the west and the state of Tamil Nadu on the east, Thiruvananthapuram, well known as Trivandrum, is the southernmost district and the capital of the south Indian state of Kerala. Referred to as ‘Evergreen City of India’, Thiruvananthapuram is one of its extremely popular tourist destinations as well. The city boasts of charming beaches, alluring temples, historic monuments, spectacular palaces, wonderful backwaters, tea, coffee and spice plantations and its rich culture. Its exotic geographical features is the prime reason that the city receives massive footfall every year. Its natural beauty is surely to become a treat to your eyes.

The monuments of Trivandrum are real cultural delight as they have an amazing architecture to boast of. If you are one of those who love being away from bustling tourist activity then beaches of Trivandrum are perfect, beautiful and serene. A major cultural hub, this city an amazing tourist destination, offers something for all kinds of travelers.  Also famed as the city of thousand headed Anantha, the sacred serpent on which Lord Vishnu reclines, covering 7 hills, it spreads in an area of 2,192 sq km. Thiruvananthapuram is a perfect mix of contemporary and tradition.

Wayanad
Nestled between the Western Ghats, the hill town of Wayanad is also known as the ‘Green Paradise’, because bordering with greener portions of the south Indian state of Kerala. Wayanad derives its name from Vayal Nadu, representing Vayal - paddy fields and Nadu - the land, making it a land of paddy fields. The tranquil natural beauty of this place comprises of a fog- clad hills, intense forests and verdant green agricultural fields. Wayanad is also well-known exotic  animal species and a vast variety of flora as well. This place is also quite popular for housing the largest tribal population of the state.

The encircling Western Ghats Mountains offer Wayanad a magical look and an impressive hilly area. The place is also quite popular for plantations of vanilla, tea, coffee, pepper and cardamom, which are also exported to the international markets. The round the year pleasurable climate and the enchanting beauty are two of its major highlights along with dense wilderness, tourist attractions, rich history and culture.

Thattekad
Located on the northern banks of river Periyar, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary lies within 13 km from Ernakulam district. Situated between an altitude of 35 to 523 meters, it is one of the most well-known bird sanctuaries in the south Indian state Kerala. Also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (name changed in 1983), it is home to over 500 species of rare birds. The area of 25 km of the sanctuary is covered with teak and rosewood cultivation and dense deciduous forest.  Established in 1930, this sanctuary, as per popular ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali belongs is “the wealthiest bird environment in Peninsular India when compared with other eastern Himalayas.”

Mattupetty
Not very far away from the Anamudi peak, Mattupetty is a tiny but a beautiful hill town. Perched at a height of 1700 m above the sea level, it is located at a distance of 13 km from the extremely well-known hill station of Munnar. A nature lovers’ delight, this place has several enchanting locations. Mattupetty has been blessed with lush greenery of Shola forests, tea plantations, and the rolling grasslands.

Varkala
Located 51 km northwards of Thiruvananthapuram and 37 km southwards of Kollam in the southern region, the town of Varkala is an extremely popular tourist destination. Flanked by a large number of tourists every year, this place boasts of a splendid past and present. Dotted with a number of popular cultural and religious attractions, this is the only place in southern part of Kerala where one can find rocks near the Arabian Sea. An important Balitha or port in the ancient times, Varkala today is known for its beach, spa and its Varkala Formation. Relatively a new discovery in the form of a tourist destination, it is perfect for those who like spending secluded vacations away from tourist activity. 

The unspoiled beach, palm trees, red rocks and pretty cliff form an enchanting site. Along with a rich historical post, Varkala is also an important Hindu pilgrimage destination. The town also has many natural fishers and springs, which are prime tourist destinations. You can indulge in interesting activity at the beach.

Kollam
Kollam, formerly known as Quilon, located on the edge of the well-known Ashtamudi Lake; in the olden times was a flourishing trading and commercial center. This 5th largest city of the south Indian state of Kerala in the present times is quite popular for its industries of coir manufacturing and cashew processing. So much for its economic importance! The place has also got natural beauty in abundance. Also known as Desinganadu in the ancient times, this place has been blessed with plains, mountains, rivers, sea, lakes, backwaters, streams, lush green fields and forests.

Celebrated by famed ancient explorers like Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta, Kollam is a serene and scenic town, which is quite popular in the form of a backwater destination. An old sea port and a chief commerce hub, this place saw the advent of Arab, Roman, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese and British trading ships, for its spices and cashew crops. Traditional villages, coconut grooves, backwaters, tourist attractions, backwaters, tree houses, monsoon, scenic locations, old streets and markets-there is so much to Kollam.

Periyar
The most popular wildlife reserve of South India, Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is also referred to as Thekkady. Spread in an area of 925 sq. km., it is one of the 27 tiger reserves in the country. Periyar is home to over 40 mammal species, 160 kinds of butterflies, 54 types of reptiles and 320 avifauna species. Therefore, as far as wildlife population is concerned, Periyar wildlife sanctuary is one of the richest wildlife reserves.

Cochin
Kochi, now known as Kochi, is a busy port along the coast of Kerala. The Chinese fishing nets in Kochi harbor are an unforgettable image of Kochi that draws tourists to this picturesque city. Kochi is also known for the beautiful Kerala backwaters tourist destinations nearby.Hotels in Kochi provide accommodation to tourists visiting the Kerala backwaters venues near Kochi.Deluxe hotels in Kochi cater to exclusive leisure travelers in Kochi, the 5-star hotels in Kochi offer their guests every luxury along with Kerala backwaters attractions and the economy hotels in Kochi provide budget travelers a comfortable stay in Kochi in Kerala

KERALA TOURISM, KERALA, TOURIST PLACES IN KERALA, MUNNAR, KERALA TOURIST PLACES, TOURISM IN KERALA

Kerala Tourism

National Geographic's Traveller magazine listed Kerala in the 'Ten Paradises of the World' and '50 must visit places of a lifetime'. Being a coastal region rich in greenery and with a unique culture, the state has attracted tourists from across the globe since time immemorial. But more often than not, tourists are finding themselves grappling with situations wherein they are unable to choose their destinations or struggle to get proper accommodation owing to shortage of local information and such other hassles.

High RangeTourism :
Kerala tourism is increasing at a high alarming rate. We can see thousands of tourist flowing to Kerala yearly.

kerala tourismKnown for the scenic beauty, natural beauty and other attractions, Kerala tourism never had to look back ever in its growth. Kerala is known for its densely forested mountain ranges comprising the Western Ghats and covering tropical evergreen, deciduous and semi-deciduous jungles that are home to some rare, exotic plant life and wildlife species. These hill stations and high range zones are the favourite haunts of nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

The high and rugged Western Ghats endow the state with a number of Hillstations, which unlike the rest of the state have a high rate of tourist influx during the summer months. On these hill slopes are cultivated expansive stretches of coffee, tea, rubber and fragrant spices such as cardamom, pepper and clove. Kerala tourism promotes long chain of lush, mid-clad hill stations that are home to exotic wildlife. All the hill resorts in Kerela offer the most enchanting experience of nature in all its virgin beauty.

Kerala Tourism has its hills which offer pleasant and pleasurable diversions that range from going on hiking, biking, trekking and hill climbing tours to wildlife safaris to the numerous wildlife sanctuaries located on the Kerala hills in Kerala.

Kerala Backwater Tourism :
Kerala's backwaters is the most popular tourist attraction of Kerala which enhance the Kerala Tourism to a large scale. Backwater tourism is centered mostly around Alappuzha, kollam and Kumarakom. Boat races held during festival seasons are also a major tourist attraction which is also a great promoter of Kerala tourism.

Kerala backwater Tourism, Kerala Houseboat TourismKerala tourism is rich with mirror still lagoons, picture book lakesides, palm fringed canals, shores bustling with glimpses from day to day life in the country side.Throughout the world, Kerala beaches are renowned for their breathtaking beauty. The backwaters have turned out to be a boon for the tourism industry, offering heavenly houseboat cruises to the visitors, reaping significant revenue to the Kerala tourism.

The backwaters form a gateway for the tourists to get a first hand feel of the unhurried pace of life in the remote hamlets. Scenes from the rural life unfold as one witnesses the locals engaged in boat building, prawn breeding, rice farming, duck rearing, sand mining, coir making, basket weaving etc – all of which form refreshingly fascinating sights, far removed from the madding crowd, for any urban visitor.

Kerala tourism attracts domestic as well as foreign tourists in a very huge number.The backwaters of Kerala are indeed storehouses of nature at its best. Kerala houseboats on the pristine waters are remarkable and a houseboat cruise can prove to be a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Culture Tourism :
The rich culture of Kerala makes Kerala such an important tourists' destination in the country. Be it the monuments, festivals, music & dance forms, cuisine - they are all intrinsically related to Kerala's culture.

Kerala backwater Tourism, Kerala Houseboat TourismKerala lovely state of swaying palms and surf washed beaches is the home of several dance, music and arts forms some of which have originated in the region and some of which have been adopted from other areas and, over the centuries transformed into a local expression typical to Kerala. Kerala Tourism, quoted by Cosmopolitan, as Kerala to be one of the ten love nests in India.

Most of these are unique to the land and reflect the love for life of its people.The state has seen the rise of many renowned writers, poets, philosophers, educationists, reformists and social activists throughout its history. Similarly, there are quite a few noted and eminent personalities who have contributed to the spheres of Malayalam cinema, music and art.

Kerala is home to some of the popular performing arts like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Thullal and so on as well as the martial art form of Kalaripayattu. Different facets of Kerala culture unfold during the numerous festival celebrations that are made part of the tourist travel itinerary.

Home Stay Tourism :
One of the many fascinating experiences for visitors to Kerala is without doubt the Home Stays.

Homestays in Kerala are homes of Keralites that have been let out on rent for the use of tourists and travelers wanting to visit the tourist attractions in the state

These homestays are literally home away from home, allowing you to get close with the host family and the community that lives in an area. Home stays provide a first hand experience for tourists to enjoy the rural life, the ethnic cuisine and local culture of the state.

Kerala backwater Tourism, Kerala Houseboat TourismThe guests stay with the local people who play host to the tourists, eating with them and learning from them their culture and lifestyle. They also get a taste of the hospitality of the residents. This concept is mutually beneficial to both parties, contributing a healthy revenue to the industry.

Tucked away in misty plantation hills, amidst cool coconut groves, circled by backwaters, by the side of sun drenched beaches or in villages with distinct characteristics; home stays in Kerala offer you one of the most favoured means by visitors to enjoy and experience the culture, lifestyle and flavours of the land and its people.

The home stay mechanism rightly fits into the needs of tourists and brings synergic results into the tourism sector. The home stays have modem accommodation facilities, eco-friendly environment and homely hospitality to offer to any tourist.

Kerala homestays create distinctive, authentic and comfortable accommodation for the tourists, that comes with value added service at tourist-friendly rates.As a concept and as an operational model the redistributive, cost effective, eco-friendly and people to people dimensions of modem tourism is expected to promote home stay tourism.

At a homestay, the guests freely mingle with the owners, eat homemade food, engage in indigenous tasks like farming and cooking, and share knowledge on their culture, cuisine and way of life with the locals, thereby enriching and enlivening each other’s knowledge base and gamut of experiences.

Medical Tourism :
Kerala holds a Big platform for Medical Tourism:
Kerala has an immense potential to develop the scope of health tourism in the country. It can become the hub and one of the most preferred destinations in the world for potential health tourists. Kerala is usually marketed as a health destination for its Allopathy, Ayurveda, Dental packages. Kerala has become an excellent brand by itself in the Kerala backwater Tourism, Kerala Houseboat Tourismhealth tourism sector either because of its reputation in modern as well as traditional systems of treatment like ayurveda, yoga, meditation and homoeopathy or its cost effectiveness.

Kerala is popular amongst medical tourists for a number of reasons. Aside from providing high-quality medical care for low prices, the area is relatively easy to access and boasts a temperate climate year round. Visitors will be able to communicate easily with their doctors and the public and will have the finest amenities available, both in the hospital and in their hotels.

Kerala is famous for its alternative medical therapies such as Ayurveda, which help to rejuvenate and revitalize the body. What many tourists have now discovered is that Kerala has a pool of trained doctors and nurses and an excellent network of hospitals that offer international standard treatments at very affordable prices.

The demand for medical treatment and surgery in Kerala is increasing especially in the gulf and Europe.The NRIs who prefer treatment in their home country,are playing a significant role in this regard.Several MNCs offer medical treatment options to employees and families at cost effective rates. What with soaring health care costs and long waits for medical procedures in the West, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find quality, affordable treatment there.India and especially Kerala is emerging as a major medical tourism destination.

Indian doctors have established themselves as highly skilled and conscientious caregivers worldwide.

Kerala Tourism offers tour packages that combine medical treatment with a restful holiday in Kerala India. The world-class hospital facilities, pre and post-operative care and pleasant climate make your medical treatment and recovery in Kerala a positive experience. Some Medical Tourism options in Kerala are given below.

The few nationally and internationally accredited hospitals in the state are doing brisk business, with foreign nationals making a beeline for procedures like knee replacement, weight reduction surgery, liver transplant, cardiac care, ophthalmic care and dentistry.

There are many leading hospitals, speciality centers, medical institutions of excellence, clinics, combined with large Ayurvedic hospitals as well as Siddha, Unani, Naturopathy ,Allopathy medical practices. Many hospitals in Kerala are of international standards and provide excellent medical care.

Medical tourism in Kerala seems to have a steep rise in the coming days.There has been an 18 percent growth in the arrival of foreign tourists in Kerala seeking medical tourism which is expected to go up to a higher percentage in the coming years.

GODS OWN COUNTRY KERALA INDIA WORLD'S BEST TRAVEL DESTINATION

 About God's own Country Kerala India

Kerala..  Commonly known as "gods own country" or "land of coconut trees" or else as "land of scenic beauty" is a green strip of land, in the south west corner of Indian peninsula. It has only 1.1 8 per cent of the total area of the country but houses 3.43% of the country's population. Kerala is a land of rivers and backwaters. Forty-four rivers (41 west-flowing and 3 east-flowing} crises-cross the state physique along with countless runlets. During summer, these monsoon-fed rivers will turn into rivulets especially in the upper parts of Kerala.

Kerala' s equable climate, natural abundance of forests (with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants), and the cool monsoon season (June - November) are best suited for ayurveda's curative and restorative packages. In fact, today, Kerala is the only state in India which practices this system of medicine with absolute dedication. Ayurveda believes in the treatment of not just the affected part, but the individual as a whole. Making it the natural way to refresh yourself, eliminate all toxic imbalances from the body and thus regain resistance and good health

Evolution of Kerala
Parashuraman Known as the founder of  Kerala. Long ago in the mists of time, Lord Vishnu descended from the heavens in his incarnation of Parashuram. After slaying the evil kings 21 times over to repeal their force from the earth, he did penance for waging the terrible war, and threw his axe into the sea. The area where the axe land ed, from shaft to blade, rose from the sea as Kerala, a land of plenty and prosperity. Its geographical position has been responsible too  Kerala 's historic ebb and flow

ART AND CULTURE

Art and culture With about 35 different types of tribal people in Kerala, tribal dances like ELELAKKARADI, PANIYARKALI and MANKALI still survive Of over 50 folk dances in Kerala, the popular ones are KALIYATTOM, KOLAM THULLAL, KOLKALI, VELAKALI and KAIKOTTIKALI. All these are performed in accompaniment of songs and drumming and often in colorful ornamental costumes. From these arose KERALA'S classical dances like KOOTHU, KATHAKALI, MOHINIATTOM and  PATOKOM

KATHAKALI
Kathakali uses vivid and eloquent mudras (hand signs). A visually powerful art form, the Kathakali dance dramas are based on stories from the two great indian epics - the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. It is said to have evolved from a rivalry between two princely families. One had written a story cycle revolving around the life of Krishna , called Krishnattam, the other around the life of Rama called Ramattam. Thullal is a solo dance, a kind of a one man ballad opera, presented simply and laced with wit and humour.Ottam Thullal is said to have originated with the Poet Kunjan Nambiar. Mohiniattom which literally means "the dance of the enchantress", is sensuous and lyrical. Dancers display grace as well as passion. The chavittu natakam originated with the  portugese missionaries as an alternative to kathakali. Patterned on the lines of european opera and ballet, it tells the stories of christian saints and heroes. Not only do the dancers sing and recite, they literally stomp their feet on the wooden dance floor.

MARTIAL ARTS - KALARIPAYATTU

The martial art of Kerala - Kalaripayattu - consists of a series of intricate movements that train the body and mind. The discipline is continually practised and complemented by the Kerala's famous ayurvedic and nature cure techniques.These are believed to have travelled to eastern China, where they inspired the evolution of other martial art forms. 'Verumkai' is the final and most difficult of lessons taught in the kalari. The others are Maithozhil - combat through kicks, Kolathiri - combat using sticks and Angathiri - the use of metal weapons

Handicrafts
An old time industrial art is bell metal casting. One famous product is the Aranmula polished metal mirror, made of an alloy of copper and tin. In woodcraft, apart from the temple art tradition, kathakali models and accessories, weaving of mats, baskets, coir matting figure among it's handicraft. Since the ban on ivory trade, Kerala's ivory carvings, especially that of the snake boat are now made of buffalo horn. Kerala is also known for it's jewellery. Designs range from the elaborate and exquisite to the simple and functional.The Nagapadam or serpent-hood pendant was originally used by Nair women. Namboodiri women wore the cherutali necklace and Tamil Brahmin women, the oddiyanam waist-chain.  Christian women wore the  Mekka Mothiram. Though relegated to history, contemporary goldsmiths still draw inspiration from them for their designs

FESTIVALS AND CELEBRATIONS

Onam
Kerala is the land of lakes, lagoons and festivals.  After the long spell of monsoon rain the sky becomes blue again, the traditional festivals start to bloom throughout Kerala out of which ONAM stands out significantly.  Along with the enchanting natural beauty which dazzles every human eye, Kerala also owns a resplendent cultural and artistic tradition which reflects in her festivals and fairs. The unique national festival of Kerala, 'Onam' celebrated with ever growing zest by the entire people of this state irrespective of religion, caste or creed.  Perhaps the elequant artistic display is a legacy of the cultural past of Kerala.  One of the important event of 'ONAM' festival is the vegetarian feast( ONAM SADYA ), lavishly served to depict the glorious period of the rule of King Mahabali, a period free from crime, corruption. poverty, illness and exploitatory and when all people were equal.King Mahabali is a wise and good king, but he belongs to the faction known as the Asuras, or demons.  The gods or Devas are afraid that he might become too powerful.  So they ask Vishnu (also known as the Preserver in the Hindu trinity of Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva or Creator-Preserver-Destroyer) to curb his power.  Vishnu takes the form of a dwarf called Vamana and knocks at the gates of Mahabali's palace.  The king receives him politely, feeds him, and offers Vamana a boon.

Great Elephant March
The Great Elephant March, with events centered, successively, in Trochyr, Alleppey and Trivandrum . Created for visitors, it stages the caparisoned elephant-and-umbrella display of Trissur Pooram; the boat race of 100-oared vallams normally associated with Nehru Trophy Boat Race of Alapuzha; and the martial arts of Kerala, one of which has a center in Triuvananthapuram. There is also a most unusual display of masked dance, some preformed by artistes in towering headdresses, whose origins could go back to the Stone Age

Malayattur Feast
- The Malayattur-Feast commemorates the establishment of one of the seven churches and shrine by St. Thomas , the Apostle of Christ. As St. Thomas sailed from Syria to the ancient port of Kodugallore his followers are still known as Syrian Christians. On this feast, celeberated on the second Sunday after Easter Sunday, devotees wind up the 2,000-foot-high hill, treading a stony path to a simple little church. Chants and prayer fill the air there is the inevitable fair.

Thrissur Pooram
Trissur Pooram is the festival of the great vadakkumnathan temple crowning the hill around which the town has grown. Only on trissur Pooram day are non-Hindus allowed to enter the temple, built in the ancient style of Kerala- sanded courts, wooden louvers stone sculptures, a traditional auditourium and multi-level roofs, in many ways like a Japanese shrine.In the evening, two lines of 13 elephants face each other on the slope below the temple. Each pachydern bears an umbrella-holder, a peacock-fan carrier and a yak-tail fly whisk wielder. Between the two lines of beast stand percussion and wind orchestras. All around are massed teeming crowds of spectators. As each orchestra reaches a crescendo, a new display of brilliant ceremonial umbrellas blossoms over the elphants and the supportings and the supporting crowd applauds. This goes on till elephants and the supporting crowd applauds. This goes on till sunset when the elephants depart and, late at night, the darkness elplodes with a magnificent fireworks display

Aranmula Boat Pagent
The Aranmula Boat Pageant, or Aranmula Uthittahi, conducted on the Pamba river in front of Sri Parthasarathy temple. According to legend, the pagent recalls the time when the idol installed in the temple was ferried across the river in a raft made of six bamboo poles. 'Ara' is six in Malayalam, the language of most of the people of Kerala. Through large Snake Boats take part in this festival, they do not race with each other. Instead, they row in unsion, to the accompaniment of songs, and reach their destination together because Lord Krishna is believed to be present in each boat

Christmas
Christmas, celeberated all over Kerala, is basically a family festival, but because of Kerala's Christmas heritage, and the fact that such religious celeberations soon become faith-bridging social festivals, christmas decorations brighten many non-Christians shops and houses. Particularly appealing are the constellations of Christmas stars that twinkle every night all over the state

Ramadan
Ramadan is derived from the Arabic root word ramida or ar-ramad denoting intense scorching heat and dryness, especially the ground. From the same root there is ramdaa, sunbaked sand, and the famous proverb: " Kal Mustajeer minar Ramadaa binnar" - to jump out of the frying pan into the fire. And in a hadith the Messenger of Allah (saas) said: "The prayer of repenters is due when the young camel can feel the sun's heat early in the morning." Thus, the word Ramadan is so called to indicate the heating sensation in the stomach as a result of thirst). Others said it is so called because Ramadan scorches out the sins with good deeds, as the sun burns the ground. Some said it is so called because the hearts and souls are more readily receptive to the admonition and remembrance of Allah during Ramadan, as the sand and stones are receptive to the sun's heat

Bhoothathankettu Dam Ernakulam Kerala

Bhoothathankettu Dam Ernakulam Kerala 

Bhoothathankettu is a dam and tourist spot in Kerala, India. It is situated outside the village of Pindimana, about 10 km away from the town of Kothamangalam and 50 km away from the main city of Kochi. The original natural dam has been supplemented by a modern dam impounding the Bhoothathankettu Reservoir (Thattekad Reservoir). During the Malayatoor pilgrim season, travelers use the roads through the forest

Large blocks of unshaped stones are placed on both sides of the Periyar River to form the dam, making it look like a natural dam built by superhumans. The name Bhoothathan Kettu, means “monster fort”; past generations believed it was built by a Bhootham (monster).

Myth
The mythological story of the reason behind the dam’s name is that monsters(Malayalam: Bhootham) planned to submerge the Trikkariyoor temple, whose presiding deity is Lord Shiva by making a dam in the Periyar river and flooding the area. Suspecting trickery the omnipotent Lord Shiva, came up with a plan to deter them. He faked the approaching dawn by a rooster’s sound. The demons fearing the arrival of light fled the place. To this day there is a visible proof of their effort where you can see the boulders which the demons were supposed to have rolled onto the riverbed, the Old Bhothathankettu. The Periyar flows on through the narrow space which the demons did not quite manage to dam up.

Reality
Its been attributed to two great floods – one in the 4th century and the other in 1341, which threw open the port of Kochi. The massive landslides during the flood are believed to have caused gigantic rocks to roll down from the mountain and become entrenched in the Old Bhoothathankettu.

Aruvikkuzhi waterfall,Kerala Aruvikkuzhi waterfalls Kottayam, Kerala, Aruvikkuzhi fall, Aruvikkuzhi falls

Aruvikkuzhi waterfall

Aruvikkuzhi waterfall is one amongst the most interesting tourist places of Kerala. This is a picturesque spot snuggled amongst the ravishing greens of the rubber plantations of Kumarakom. This waterfall gushes down with great force cascading numerous small streams which fall through jagged rocks. The waterfall is situated 18kms from the Kottayam town. Here numerous small brooks gurgle through the lush green rubber plantations forming big water rivulets which roar down from great heights. Aruvikkuzhi waterfall is one of the most favorite tourist spot which no tourist who is traveling to Kerala can miss. Along with being a famous waterfall it is also a popular tourist spot for the natives as well as the visitors from outside. A tourist can always stroll through the rubber wilderness enjoying the scenic beauty of the place which serves as a backdrop to this huge waterfall. One can always take photographs of the stream and the waterfall from different perspective while taking a walk through the rubber plantations. The cool mountain breeze fills the lungs of the visitor while he takes a walk through these lush greens. This rejuvenates the body as well as the soul of the traveler and fills him with the surge of new energy.

One should begin early in the morning to reach the waterfall because this is the only way you will be fully able to enjoy the beauty of this place, because it gets dark on the hills much earlier than on plains. Also, you will be able to enjoy the pleasant weather in early morning as during the afternoon it gets humid, that’s why it is also suggested to wear cotton apparels while visiting Aruvikkuzhi waterfall. The place is also well connected with the network of roads and it is quite easy to get a transport to and from this place. Kochi airport is the nearest airport form this place and Kotayyam Junction is the nearest airport from where one can board a train to almost all the metros of India. Nearby attractions which can be visited while visiting this place are Pathiramanal or Sands of Midnight,which is a small island on the Vembanad Lake and can be accessed from a boat from here. Pathiramanal is a little picturesque island on the backwaters, which serves as a home to an assorted anthology of migratory birds which come to this part of Kerala during winters from different parts of the world.

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