KERALA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS, TOURIST DESTINATIONS OF KERALA, PLACES TO VISIT IN KERALA, TOURISM IN KERALA, BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN KERALA, TOURIST PLACES IN KERALA, KERALA TRAVEL AND TOURISM

KERALA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Kerala Ayurveda

Though every region of KERALA is full with attractions and beautiful scenery and all the places are counted as must to visit, The entire state of Kerala is a tourist destination and at every corner of this state, one can experience something new. It is not without any reason that the Keralites call their state the 'God's Own Country'. Backwaters, historical structures, culture, wildlife, and natural beauty, the state has all these and more.

The major tourist destinations in the state include Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kovalam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Munnar, Palakkad, Alappuzha, Kollam, Kannur, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sabrimalai etc.

The state has given great emphasis on eco tourism and new experiments are being done to take tourism nearer to the general public. In this way too, the state is a pioneer in the state.

Kerala Ayurveda
Ayurveda, “the wisdom of life” or “the knowledge of longevity”, is one the oldest and powerful holistic treatment followed in India since many centuries. Ayurveda is not just a treatment, it is a science which helps an individual to enjoy his life in perfect harmony with his environment. The Ayurveda treatment detoxifies and rejuvenates your body. This unique health treatment helps to maintain equilibrium of body, mind and spirit. The main aim of Ayurveda treatment is to detoxify and balance the three doshas, vata (air and space) , Pitta (fire and water) and kapha (water and Earth). Doshas are the biological energies found throughout the human body and mind. These doshas are responsible for the mental and physical  balance of the human body. Ever since Ayurveda was globally recognized, Kerala became the famous destination for tourists who wanted to undergo Ayurveda health treatment with the Kerala Ayurveda Package. This approach is also medical tourism , where people from across the world come to Kerala for natural treatments.

Backwaters
The backwaters - a network of lakes, canals, estuaries and lagoons that connect villages and support a rich eco-system- are unique to Kerala. Since ancient times, they have been vital channels of transport. Houseboats offer travellers a unique experience of exploring the beauty of the backwaters and life around them. The backwaters skirt Alleyppey, Kumarakom, Kollam and Punnamada. The annual Nehru Trophy Boat race is held on the Second Sat in August at Punnamada Lake in Alleppey.

Beaches
Kerala's 550 kms long coastline along the Arabian Sea is lined with beautiful beaches and coconut groves. Adding to allure of beaches are lighthouses and forts built on headlands. The sight of fishermen returning with their catch of the day adds another facet to the charm of the coast. Kovalam, Varkala, Kappad, Muzhappilangad and Bekal are most famous for their beaches.

Kochi
Kochi, formerly Cochin, seamlessly blends history and modernity. As a trading port since ancient times it has witnessed the arrival of traders and colonists, who have left their mark in the city's monuments and cosmopolitan culture. The charming Chinese fishing nets seen by the beach at Fort Kochi are not chanced upon elsewhere in India! St. Francis Church is an important landmark; its origins are traced to 1503 and it is the oldest European church in India. The Jewish Synagogue in Kochi, built in 1568, is the oldest existing synagogue in the country. The Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum is a worth a visit for its interesting artefacts and architectural design.

Kozhikode
Kozhikode, formerly Calicut, was an important centre of spice trade over the centuries. The 'City of Spices' remains a popular tourist destination for its beaches, monuments, museum and backwaters. Portuguese navigator and adventurer Vasco da Gama landed in Kappad, a short distance from the city, in 1498. Kozhikode retains the charm of a bygone era.

Mattancherry Palace
Mattancherry Palace, Mattancherry, is a charming double storied place with a central courtyard and a temple in the courtyard. Built in the mid-sixteenth century and renovated subsequently, it is also called Dutch Palace as the Dutch carried out renovations and extended it. It is idyllically located by the picturesque Kochi backwaters. The palace is famous for its exquisite wall murals that depict themes from mythology, religion and the two great Indian epics -the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Palakkad, formerly Palghat, is called the land of palm trees and paddy fields for its lush landscape. It is also called the Gateway to Kerala as it is located near a pass that connects the state to the plains of Tamil Nadu. Among the attractions in the area are scenic dams, the Palakkad Fort, Nelliyampathy hill station and Silent Valley National Park. The national park is blessed with dense forests and is home to a variety of natural life including the endangered lion tailed macaque.

Periyar National Park
The scenic Periyar National Park, set in the ranges of the Western Ghats, is well forested and with a beautiful lake in the centre. The park has a rich variety of natural life from trees to insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. It has the unique distinction of being a tiger and elephant reserve. Watching elephants by the lake is a fascinating experience.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple, Thiruvananthapuram, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, traces its origins to ancient times and is one of the most revered temples in Kerala. In the 18th century, the then kingdom of Travancore was ceded to Lord Padmanabha, after which the rulers ruled the kingdom in deity's name.

Tea, Coffee Gardens; Spice Plantations
Munnar- blessed with natural beauty and bracing climate- is a treat for the eyes with miles of tea plantations carpeting its gentle hills. The small and beautiful Christ Church, a stone structure with beautiful stained glass windows, built in 1910, is full of history. Visits to tea factories offer an insight into tea production.

Thrissur Pooram
Thrissur Pooram is a magnificent, grand and colourful temple festival. The festival celebrates the grand assembly of deities who visit the Vadakkumnathan Temple premises on caparisoned elephants. The spectacular sight of richly decorated elephants, the changing of decorative parasols, mesmeric music performances and dazzling fireworks is breathtaking. The festival falls in April-May.
 

Festivals
Onam, a harvest festival and Kerala's biggest festival, is held to commemorate the homecoming of legendary King Mahabali. It falls in August-September. Onam is celebrated over ten days with feasts, colourful floral decorations outside home, thrilling snake boat races and cultural programs.

Kerala requires half a lifetime to be fully explored. Each place is a scenic beauty. Beaches, valleys, forests, parks, zoos, museums, the list keeps going on. The backwaters need a special mention as they are the prime attraction for tourists. True to the sobriquet, Kerala indeed looks like God’s Own Country. As a matter of fact, much of Kerala is still a paradise waiting to be explored.

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KERALA TOURIST SPOTS, TOURIST DESTINATIONS OF KERALA, PLACES TO VISIT IN KERALA

Kerala Tourist Spots
Cochin 

Cochin, formerly known as Kochi, gained its importance in the world trading routes after the world famous port at Kodugallur (Cranganore) were destroyed by the massive flood, giving the way to the then Kochi, the nearby city, to rise to be one of the busiest ports in the region. This lovely seaside city is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Its proximity to the equator, the sea and the mountains provide a rich experience of a moderate equatorial climate. Kochi is the arguably the ideal starting point for exploring the unfathomable diversity and beauty of Kerala, rated in the top three tourist destinations by the World Travel & Tourism Council and featured in National Geographic Traveler's '50 greatest places of a lifetime 
     
Munnar
Munnar is one of the most popular hill-resort towns in Kerala and in southern India. Munnar is located on the Western Ghats, situated in the Idukki district. The name Munnar is believed to be derived from the Malayalam words Munu (three) and aaru (river), referring to the town's strategic location at the confluence of the Muthirappuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly rivers. A drive from Udumalpet to Munnar gives one unforgettable views of the Western Ghats. Chinnar is 25 km from Udumalpet and is home to the Indra Gandhi wildlife sanctuary which is famous for known for the elephants that inhabit the area       

Ernakulum
Ernakulam refers to the western part of the mainland of Kochi city in Kerala, India. The name 'Ernakulam' is derived from the name of a very famous temple of Lord Shiva called the Ernakulathappan Temple. It is also said that the word Ernakulam was drawn from Malayalam words 'Ere naal Kulam', which mean 'Pond for a long time'. Ernakulam is the commercial capital of the state of Kerala.The Kerala High Court is situated in Ernakulam. Majority of islands in Kerala are in Ernakulam district which was from different parts of old Cochin Travancore Malabar area. The main islands of this district are Willington Island, Valiya Kadamakkudi, Cheriya Kadamakkudi, Ponjikkara, Ramanthuruthu, Chendamangalam, Vallarpadam, Panangad, Kumbalam, Cheppanam, Pizhala, Nettoor, Kankattuthuruthu, Cheranelloor, Korampadam, Chathanadu and World's most populated Vypeen Island. All these islands are populated areas.     

Periyar
Periyar is a protected area, and a nature reserve in the South Indian State of Kerala, set high in the mountains of the Western Ghats along the border with Tamil Nadu. It lies in the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta. The protected area covers an area of 925 km, out of which a 350 km part of the core zone was made into the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, sometimes dubbed the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The park is often called by the name thekkady also. Thekkady is located four km from Kumily, approximately 100 km east of Kottayam, 110 km west of Madurai and 120 km southeast from Kochi. Periyar is one of the most popular national parks in southern India, but these days this is more for its tranquil feel than sightings of wildlife, which many people complain can be few and far between at times. The park is known for its elephants, and 30 minute elephant rides through the jungle are offered.

Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a popular tourism destination located near the city of Kottayam (16 kilometres (10 mi)), in Kerala, India, famous for its backwater tourism. It is set in the backdrop of the Vembanad Lake which is the largest freshwater lake in the state of Kerala. Kumarakom is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a noted bird sanctuary where many species of migratory birds visit. The Vembanad Lake, the largest backwater in Kerala, is habitat for many marine and freshwater fish species and it teems with Karimeen (Pearl spot), shrimp (chemmeen in the local language) and prawns. The bird sanctuary extends over 14 acres, and came into existence following preservation efforts from the government. It is a major tourist attraction.

Alleppey (Houseboat)
Alleppey or Alappuzha is a pleasant little market town consisting of a number of islands surrounded by a network of lakes, lagoons and water bodies, thus making it one of the most bewitching backwater destinations in Kerala. Housing silvery beaches lined with swaying palm trees, this tiny heaven is packed with umpteen tourist attractions that make it hard to forget even after your dream vacation is over. Alleppey is also home to a varied species of plant and animal life. Alleppey is also known for its spectacular snake - boat races held on the second Saturday of August, every year. This competition - the Nehru boat race takes its name from India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who inaugurated in 1952. It is excitement all around as snake - boats , each manned by over a hundred oarsmen, cut through the waters like wind. The event is a tremendous success with tourists and the local population alike. The boat cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey give one first hand experience of the life style; toddy tapping, fishing for small fry, Coir-making, prawn farming etc., which remains more or less unchanged over the years

Idukki
Idukki is well known for tourism in state of Kerala. There are lots of place to see in Idukki and its Natural Wild Beauty is notable. A mosque in Vagamon. Adimali it is the spice city of kerala It is the land of waterfalls Adimali is known as the gateway of highranges munnar is just 30 km from adimali valara, cheeyappara, adimali water falls are main tourist locations. A Landlocked District, Idukki Is One Of The Most Nature Rich Areas Of Kerala. High Ranges And Wooded Valleys Are Girded By Three Main Rivers - Periyar, Thalayar And Thodupuzhayar And Their Tributaries. The River Pamba Also Has It Origin Here. As A Tourist Destination, Idukki Offers Diverse Attractions Like Wildlife Sanctuaries, Hill Stations, Spice Plantation Tours Mountain Treks, Elephant Rides Etc.     

Trivandrum
Thiruvananthapuram also known as Trivandrum is the capital of the Indian state of Kerala and the headquarters of the Thiruvananthapuram District. It is located on the west coast of India near the extreme south of the mainland. Referred to by Mahatma Gandhi as the "Evergreen city of India", the city is characterized by its undulating terrain of low coastal hills and busy commercial alleys. Thiruvananthapuram means "City of Lord Anantha" in Sanskrit and Malayalam. The name derives from the deity of the Hindu temple at the centre of the city. Anantha is the serpent Shesha on whom Padmanabhan or Vishnu reclines. The temple of Vishnu reclining on Anantha, the Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple remains the iconic landmark of the city.

Kovalam
Kovalam was among the most prominent tourist spots in India during the hippy era. It still has a high status among tourists, who arrive mostly from Europe and Israel. Kovalam is finding a new significance in the light of several Ayurvedic salons, and recuperation and regeneration resorts which provide a wide variety of Ayurvedic treatments for tourists. There are a large number of beach resorts in and around Kovalam. The sea port of Vizhinjam is about 3 km away and famous for its special varieties of fish, old Hindu temples, big churches and a mosque. The Proposed International Trans shipment Terminal at Vizhinjam is also close to Kovalam.

Kanyakumari
The name of this place has been christened after the virgin goddess  Kanyakumari Amman. Mythological stories depict that Goddess parvati under the disguise of Devi Kanniya did a penance in one of the rocks in this area to reach the hand of Lord Shiva. This place is also a popular pilgrimage. The tourists who visit this southern most tip of India would certainly enjoy the exuberant scenes of the sunsets, the sunrises especially on full moon days. The nature of the sand in the beaches of Kanyakumari is unique as it is multicolored. Lakhs of tourist, round the year are lured by the serene beauty of this place and the spectacles of sunrise and sunset. Though sunrise can be viewed throughout the year, sunset is visible only from October 15 to March 15 from this southernmost tip

KERALA TOURISM, TOURISM IN KERALA, TOURISM OF KERALA, KERALA TOURISM INFORMATION, TOURISM KERALA

KERALA TOURISM INFORMATION

Kerala tourism provides one of the biggest opportunities to come close to the nature in Kerala. Kerala Tourism promotes beach tourism, Ayurveda tourism, wildlife tourism, hill station tourism etc. Kerala is one of the most popular destinations because of its rich culture and traditions. Kerala is known as one of the ten paradises in the world. Kerala with hills, beaches, backwaters, houseboats is like a heaven on earth. Kerala tourism makes the person close to the culture of the region. Through the tourism, you will come to know more about the dance forms, spice tourism, tea and coffee plantation tourism etc.Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate, a long shoreline with serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald Kerala Backwaters, Kerala hill stations and exotic Kerala wildlife, Kerala Waterfalls, Sprawling Kerala plantations and Kerala Paddy Fields, Kerala Ayurvedic health holidays, enchanting art forms of Kerala,Magical festivals of kerala,historic and cultural monuments in Kerala,an exotic Kerala cuisine... all of which offers the Kerala visitors an unique experience. 

Kerala is a perfect destination for adventure, culture and relaxation. With its laid-back beach scene, swaying elephant rides and gentle houseboat cruises along tropical backwaters, you'll soon see why National Geographic Traveller voted Kerala one of its ten Paradise Found'. There are many fascinating elements that make Kerala a good tourist spot.

Of them the thick forests with coconut trees allure many people all over the world. The hospitality shown by the keralites makes people to visit Kerala often. The Literacy rate here is almost 100%, the only state to have all literates in India.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TOURISM DESTINATIONS IN KERALA
The climate of the state, as in the most of the other part of India, is tropical. The summer comes to the state in April and continues for the next four months. The maximum temperature during this season is around 33°C. Monsoon touches the state in June and remains there till September though not much difference in temperature can be felt. Winter is from October to January and temperature drops a bit. The weather is never too chilly in Kerala.

TOURISM ATTRACTIONS IN KERALA
Tour to Kerala The entire state of Kerala is a tourist destination and at every corner of this state, one can experience something new. It is not without any reason that the Keralites call their state the 'God's Own Country'. Backwaters, historical structures, culture, wildlife, and natural beauty, the state has all these and more.

The major tourist destinations in the state include Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kovalam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Munnar, Palakkad, Alappuzha, Kollam, Kannur, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sabrimalai etc.

The state has given great emphasis on eco tourism and new experiments are being done to take tourism nearer to the general public. In this way too, the state is a pioneer in the state.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS OF KERALA
Onam is a time for sports and festivities and in Kerala-where one third of the area is low lying, covered with canals, lakes, and backwaters-the people take to their boats and country crafts to celebrate.

Colourful aquatic festivals are organized along the sacred rive Pampa. Depending on the positioning of the stars and the moon, the festival is held at the end of August or beginning of September.

Christmas is another festival that is celebrated with much vigour and enthusiasm in the state. Other important festivals of the state are Eid, Muharram, and other festivals that are traditionally celebrated all over the country.

Kerala is the fastest growing Tourist destination in Asia the world's most feted travel hot spot.
Kerala Tourism Destinations - One of the 50 must see destinations of a lifetime - “National geographic Travel”
Kerala Tourism Destinations - One of the 10 paradises of the World - “National Geographic Travel”
Kerala Tourism Destinations - One of the 100 great trips for the 21st century - “Travel and Leisure”

Kerala Tourism Destinations - One of the ten hot spots for the millennium - “Emirates In-flight Magazine”
Kerala Tourism Destinations - One of the ten love nests in India - " Cosmopolitan”
Kerala Tourism Destinations- One of the six destinations of the millennium - " Khaleej Times "

Kerala Tourism - Prestigious International Award for Leisure Tourism for the year 2000-2001, by Pacific Area Travel Writer's Association ( PATWA )
Kerala Tourism - the best State that promoted tourism in India in the year 2001 - “Outlook Traveler” and TAAI
Kerela Tourism - Best Performing State Award for the year 1999 - 2000 - “Government of India"
'State of Enlightenment' status accorded to Kerala Tourism by the " NGT " in its April issue

Kerala backwater tourism
Kerala's backwaters are the most popular tourist attraction of Kerala. kerala Backwaters are formed by the accumulation of sea water at the beach. As the waves moved to and from, they made their way tearing the ground and forming backwaters. The backwaters are essentially inland lakes connected by a network of canals. The best way to enjoy the Kerala backwaters is to take a cruise on a kerala kettuvallam or the kerala houseboat.
The major backwaters in kerala are kumarakom backwater, alleppey back water, kollam backwater etc.

Kerala Houseboat tourism or Kerala Kettuvallam Tourism
The houseboat in Kerala commonly known as Kettuvallams.The kettuvallam (kerala houseboat) is huge boats with high carrying capacity. These kerala boat house were part of Kerala's culture and tradition over the past many years. Presently they got new life in the form of kerala houseboats, providing a good time for the tourists who visit Kerala backwater or kumarakom backwater or alleppey backwater. A journey in this kerala houseboat is interesting, passing through kerala backwater villages, busy kerala boat jetties and vibrant celebrations. Kerala house boats are mainly massive vessels crafted out of wood and other natural materials.

The spectacular beauty of Kerala backwaters needs no introduction. A Kerala Houseboats cruise along the palm-fringed waterways of Kerala in luxury houseboats is the most enchanting holiday experience in kerala today. In this world of simple pleasures, you will skim past ancient Chinese fishing nets, water lilies, lush paddy fields, coir villages, rustic homes, temples and coconut groves. A guided tour down the kerala backwater would provide you with a complete and most enchanting experience on the back waters of Kerala and will also reveal to you some interesting facts about the life of local village people. This month's lens view takes you to the backwater stretch of the Vembanad, where one can go for a leisurely cruise on a multi deck boat, allowing you enjoy the scenic kerala backwater life.

The Kerala houseboat tourism are offering in kumarakom houseboat and alleppey houseboat.kumarakom houseboat are well known among world travelers, Kumarakom houseboats gained its popularity with its backwater cruise in kumarakom backwaters, House boats in kumarakom is the best way to explore the backwater lakes, lagoons , rivers, canal systems and natural beauty of backwaters of kerala. It is really a great experience to enjoy the beauty of the backwaters of Kerala by traveling in kerala house boat. The water ways of the houseboats in Kerala are banked by the greenery and is presently attracting tourists from all parts of the world. Coconut creek kumarakom homestay and kumarakom houseboat offers wonderful kerala houseboat tours in kumarakom, kottayam and alleppey.

Kerala Hill Station Tourism
Far away from the din and bustle of the city life, the Kerala hills draped in green are still waiting to be discovered by the wayfaring tourist. Home to an exotic vegetation and rich wildlife, it is these hills that enrich our kitchens with the internationally famous spices. The cardamoms and cinnamons and pepper and cashews that long ago hypnotized traders from all over the world and drained royal treasures, are the harvests of these hills. If you have already tasted the snow capped magic of the Himalayas and the rugged charm of the Aravallis, it's the turn of the Western Ghats to play on your senses. The famous kerala hill station tourism destinations are munnar hill station, idukki hill station, devikulam hill station, ponmudi hill station, vagamon hill station, silent valley hill station, nelliyampathi hill station, wayanad hill station, kuttikanam hill station, thekkady hill station etc. Coconut creek kumarakom homestay and kumarakom houseboat offers memorable kerala hill station tours in different kerala tourism spots.

Kerala wildlife Tourism
The Western Ghats have been closely associated with the customs, traditions and social life of Kerala for centuries and are in fact the hot spot of unique biodiversity – exquisitely rich and varied. The forests in kerala are indeed some of the most magnificent and varied found anywhere in the world. The Western Ghats, the natural mountain barriers of Kerala, bordering Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are home to the majority of Kerala’s forests and wildlife. Our kerala wildlife tours are designed to explore the biodiversity (plants and animals), culture, ethnology, and village life of Central Western Ghats in kerala tourism. It is a journey to the unknown world of a biodiversity hotspot on earth. The important kerala wildlife tourism destinations are marayoor sandal forest, idukki wildlife sanctuary, periyar tiger reservoir idukki or thekkady wild life sanctuary idukki, chinnar wild life sanctuary idukki, kumarakom bird sanctuary kottayam, parambikulam wildlife sanctuary, peppara wildlife sanctuary, peechi – vazhani wildlife sanctuary palakad, muthanga wildlife sanctuary wayanad, nagarhole wildlife sanctuary, wayanad wildlife sanctuary etc. Coconut creek kumarakom homestay and kumarakom houseboat offers unforgettable kerala wild life tours in different kerala tourism spots.

Kerala Beach Tourism
Kerala Beaches Most of India's finest beaches in Kerala. Virtually its entire 900km length coastline is lined with sandy beaches, rocky promontories and coconut palms. Each year, a great number of visitors arrive in kerala is search of tranquil, palm-fringed beaches in kerala. Kerala enjoys an extraordinary kinship with the sea. Mythically born from it, Kerala's bond with the sea is that of a child and mother. By the virtue of having most of India's finest beaches, Kerala offers you surf, spice and sand like no other place. Though extremely popular worldwide, the beaches remain strangely unspoilt and bewitching. The cool breeze that blows on the kerala beaches will work like a balm to your soul. You will find the communing with air, water and sand at the beaches of Kerala a supreme rejuvenation. The important kerala beach tourism destinations are kovalam beach, varkala beach, alleppey beach, marari beach, kappad beach, bekal beach, kanyakumari beach etc Coconut creek kumarakom homestay and kumarakom houseboat offers unforgettable kerala beach tours in different kerala tourism spots.

Kerala Ayurveda Tourism
The term 'ayurveda' literally breaks up to mean the knowledge (veda) of life (ayu). It is a comprehensive system of medicine that believes in preventing body ailments along with curing them. It also aims at treating the entire body as distinguished from the modern system where stress is laid only on curing the affected part.

Though the origin of Ayurveda is wrapped in mystery, yet if you believe legends, then ayurveda was the creation of Lord Brahma himself. Ayurveda finds mention in the ancient vedas and he was the one who created the four vedas - Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda and Atharva Veda. Legends apart, the fact is that ayurveda has, since ages, managed to establish its credence despite the growth and development of modern treatment.

In India, Kerala is the only place where ayurveda is practiced in the same previous way. The kerala ayurvedic doctors here, unlike the rest of India, are fairly well aware of the Sanskrit language. This enables them to understand the ancient system of treatment much better than others (since the early ayurveda books were written in Sanskrit). Moreover, the salubrious climate of kerala and abundance of herbs and medicinal plants add to the effective treatment.

Today, the popularity of ayurvedic treatment has gained such popularity that tourist from far off come to Kerala just to cure their disease. Some even have an ayurvedic treatment for pleasure - sukh chikitsa - endorsing the very basic of ayurvedic principles. The different ayurveda treatment in kerala ayurveda tourism are Abhyangam, Dhanyamla Dhara, Dhara, Kativasthi, Kizhi, Ksheeradhoomam, Ksheeradhoomam, Lepanam, Nasyam, Njavarakizhi,Pizhichi,Sirovasthi, Snehapanam, Thalam, Udvarthanam, Urovasthi, Vasthi etc. Coconut creek kumarakom homestay and kumarakom houseboat offers unforgettable kerala ayurveda tours in different kerala tourism spots.

HOW TO REACH TOURISM DESTINATIONS IN KERALA
BY AIR - There are three airports in the state-at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode. Thiruvananthapuram is also an international airport, connecting the state to many places in the Middle East.

BY RAIL - There are around 200 railway stations in Kerala connecting most of the places in the state to places in the other parts of the country and inside the state. Long-distance express trains connect important places in the state to places outside the state like Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, and Calcutta.

BY ROAD - An extensive network of metalled roads connects most of the places in the state. National highways 47, 17, and 49 connect the state with other parts of the country.

BY WATER - Inland water navigation systems are available in many districts. Boats are extensively used to connect many places within the state. The state has major airports at Kochi and Vizhinjam. The minor ports in the state are Neendakara, Azheekkala and Beypore.

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.

Kerala Tourism, Tourism in Kerala, Tourism of Kerala, Tourist Destinations in Kerala, Tourist Attractions in Kerala, Tourist places of Kerala,

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.

Kerala Tourism, Tourism in Kerala, Tourism of Kerala, Tourist Destinations in Kerala, Tourist Attractions in Kerala, Tourist places of Kerala, Most popular Place to Visit in Kerala,  Kerala Backwater Tourism,Culture Tourism, Medical Tourism, Home Stay Tourism 

Tourism in Kerala,Tourism of Kerala, Kerala Tourism,Tourist attractions in Kerala, Tourist Destinations in Kerala

Tourism of Kerala

INTRODUCTION TO TOURISM IN KERALA
If there is one place in the riveting diversity of India where there is tangible beauty and a phenomenal thing like total literacy, it is in Kerala. Kerala is a state full of good things. This small state at the southern tip of the Indian peninsula is an easy winner owing to its beautiful landscape, intriguing customs, high-intensity cultural life and an educated public so often dressed in white. From Kasargode to Thiruvananthapuram, the state in choc-a-bloc with places that attract tourists and travellers from all over the world.

LOCATION OF KERALA IN INDIA
Kerala is situated on the southwestern tip of the Indian mainland on the Arabian Sea. The state extends between the latitude 10°00 North and longitude 76°25 East. Kerala is bound by the Arabian Sea on the west, Karnataka on the north and northeast, and Tamil Nadu on the east.

According to the geographical features, the state can be divided into hills and valleys, midland plains and coastal belts.

The hills of Kerala dot the Western Ghat from Ponmudi in the south to Munnar in the centre and Sultan's Bathery in the north. There is heavy rainfall in this region during the months between May and November.

In the coastal belts of this state are situated world famous backwaters that are more or less main attraction of Kerala.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TOURISM DESTINATIONS IN KERALA
The climate of the state, as in the most of the other part of India, is tropical. The summer comes to the state in April and continues for the next four months. The maximum temperature during this season is around 33°C. Monsoon touches the state in June and remains there till September though not much difference in temperature can be felt. Winter is from October to January and temperature drops a bit. The weather is never too chilly in Kerala.

FACTS & FIGURES ON KERALA
Area    38,863 sq km
Religion    Hindus (57.28%), Muslims (23.32%), Christians (19.31%)
Maximum Temperature     33°C
Minimum Temperature    22°C
Capital    Thiruvananthapuram
Languages    Malayalam, English
Best time to visit    October to March.

HISTORY OF KERALA
Tour to Kerala The name of the state of Kerala has been taken from the word Keralaputra (land of the sons of Cheras), as mentioned in one of the Ashokan edicts dating back to 273-236 BC. There is not much known about the history of this region of the period after the Ashokan edicts, except the fact that there was extensive trading with the Romans from this region. Chera was the first large empire that took roots in this state, and continued to use Tamil till 7th century as their administrative language. This shows the influence and power that Tamils exerted over this region. Cheras established a wide network of trade links not only with Indian businessmen, but also with countries outside ranging from Sumatra to Cordoba. The Chera power declined in the 10th century AD, after Cholas, the rulers of Tamil Nadu, were successful in overthrowing the dynasty.

After the decline of Cholas in the 11th century, gradually political power in the state went into the hands of the Zamorin of Calicut. In 1496, Vasco da Gama became the first European to find a route to India through sea and started a long-time fight for the power in this region between the Portuguese, British, and Dutch. This fight marginalized the local powers, though the Zamorin made a fight back in the early 17th century when they gained the external support from the Dutch and British in return for trading rights from Kerala.

For a brief period in the middle of 18th century AD, Travancore, with the help of petty kingdoms, tried to control the political power of Kerala. Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan also tried to annex the areas in the south of Travancore, but could not fulfil their dream as they were attacked by the British from the east and had to withdraw. The local chieftains in Kerala looked up to the British to save them from the wrath of Tipu and consequently the British took control of the forts previously held by Tipu. After Tipu's first defeat by the British, the Seringpatnam Treaty brought all the captured parts of Kerala directly under the British and Travancore and Kochi became princely states under the British.

TOURISM ATTRACTIONS IN KERALA
Tour to Kerala The entire state of Kerala is a tourist destination and at every corner of this state, one can experience something new. It is not without any reason that the Keralites call their state the 'God's Own Country'. Backwaters, historical structures, culture, wildlife, and natural beauty, the state has all these and more.

The major tourist destinations in the state include Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kovalam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Munnar, Palakkad, Alappuzha, Kollam, Kannur, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sabrimalai etc.

The state has given great emphasis on eco tourism and new experiments are being done to take tourism nearer to the general public. In this way too, the state is a pioneer in the state.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS OF KERALA
Onam is a time for sports and festivities and in Kerala-where one third of the area is low lying, covered with canals, lakes, and backwaters-the people take to their boats and country crafts to celebrate.

Colourful aquatic festivals are organized along the sacred rive Pampa. Depending on the positioning of the stars and the moon, the festival is held at the end of August or beginning of September.

Christmas is another festival that is celebrated with much vigour and enthusiasm in the state. Other important festivals of the state are Eid, Muharram, and other festivals that are traditionally celebrated all over the country.

HOW TO REACH TOURISM DESTINATIONS IN KERALA
BY AIR - There are three airports in the state-at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode. Thiruvananthapuram is also an international airport, connecting the state to many places in the Middle East.

BY RAIL - There are around 200 railway stations in Kerala connecting most of the places in the state to places in the other parts of the country and inside the state. Long-distance express trains connect important places in the state to places outside the state like Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, and Calcutta.

BY ROAD - An extensive network of metalled roads connects most of the places in the state. National highways 47, 17, and 49 connect the state with other parts of the country.

BY WATER - Inland water navigation systems are available in many districts. Boats are extensively used to connect many places within the state. The state has major airports at Kochi and Vizhinjam. The minor ports in the state are Neendakara, Azheekkala and Beypore.