The Kerala Story
Along the southern coast of India, Kerala is a captivating destination known for its breathtaking beauty, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil landscapes. Often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala offers a unique blend of serene backwaters, pristine beaches, lush hill stations, exotic wildlife, and a vibrant culinary scene. Whether visiting Kerala for the first time or returning for another dose of tropical paradise, the state has a charm that leaves a lasting impression. In this article, we’ll explore the top nine reasons why Kerala should be on every traveller’s bucket list.
1. Kerala Backwaters: A Tranquil Escape
One of Kerala’s most iconic attractions, the backwaters are a network of serene lagoons, lakes, and canals that meander through the state’s lush green landscape. The backwaters, often fringed by swaying coconut palms and punctuated by quaint villages, offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This tranquil maze of waterways, stretching over 900 kilometers, is a key reason why visitors flock to Kerala.
The best way to experience the backwaters is by venturing on a houseboat cruise. Traditionally known as Kettuvallams, these houseboats are fully equipped with modern amenities while retaining their rustic charm. A day or two spent gliding through these waterways provides the perfect opportunity to soak in the surrounding beauty, watch local life unfold, and enjoy Kerala’s signature cuisine on board. Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, and Kumarakom are two of the most popular destinations for backwater cruises.
For nature enthusiasts, the backwaters are home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Look out for kingfishers, egrets, and cormorants as you drift along the calm waters. The backwaters provide not just a scenic retreat but also a glimpse into Kerala’s traditional village life, where people rely on fishing, farming, and coir making.
2. Delicious Food: A Culinary Paradise
Kerala is a food lover’s dream. Its cuisine is as diverse as its landscape, offering a vibrant mix of flavours, colours, and aromas. Heavily influenced by the state’s geography, Kerala’s dishes prominently feature fresh seafood, coconut, and a medley of spices. Whether you’re a fan of vegetarian or non-vegetarian food, Kerala’s culinary scene will leave you wanting more.
Kerala’s famous dishes include Sadya, a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, usually eaten during festivals or special occasions. It comprises a variety of dishes like rice, sambar, rasam, avial, and sweet desserts like payasam. For breakfast, try Idiyappam with curry, a dish made from steamed rice noodles paired with a flavorful coconut-based curry. Another popular dish is Appam with stew, a fermented rice pancake served with a fragrant coconut milk stew.
Kerala is also known for its seafood, with dishes like Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish marinated with spices and wrapped in banana leaves) and Meen Curry (fish curry) being local favourites. The liberal use of coconut in various forms—grated, milk, or oil—adds a unique flavour to the dishes. The spices used in Kerala’s cooking include black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, all of which enhance the flavour profile of the cuisine.
Street food is another must-try aspect of Kerala’s culinary culture. From crispy Parippu Vada (lentil fritters) to the savoury Dosa Ghee Roast, Kerala’s street food vendors offer delicious and budget-friendly options.
3. The Hill Stations: Breathtaking Escapes in the Western Ghats
Kerala’s hill stations, located in the Western Ghats, provide a cool and scenic retreat from the humid coastal plains. These hill stations are known for their lush greenery, tea and coffee plantations, and pleasant climate. Popular among honeymooners, trekkers, and nature lovers, Kerala’s hill stations offer an ideal getaway for those seeking tranquillity and adventure.
Munnar, one of the most famous hill stations, is a paradise for tea lovers. Its sprawling tea gardens, misty mountains, and pleasant weather make it a perfect destination for relaxing and exploring nature. Visitors can tour the tea estates, visit the Tea Museum, or simply enjoy the scenic views. Wayanad, another popular hill station, is known for its verdant forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and waterfalls. For the adventurous, Wayanad offers opportunities for trekking, camping, and exploring ancient caves.
Other hill stations like Vagamon and Thekkady are also worth visiting. Vagamon is known for its rolling meadows, pine forests, and opportunities for paragliding, while Thekkady is famous for its spice plantations and proximity to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. A visit to Kerala’s hill stations allows you to experience the state’s natural beauty from a different perspective.
4. Tropical Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
Kerala is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in India, with nearly 600 kilometres of coastline along the Arabian Sea. Unlike the crowded beaches of other coastal destinations, Kerala’s beaches are relatively peaceful, offering an ideal setting for relaxation.
Kovalam Beach is one of Kerala’s most famous beaches, known for its crescent-shaped shoreline and iconic lighthouse. It’s a hub for beach lovers, offering water sports like surfing and swimming. The beach is lined with restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset.
For those looking for a quieter experience, Varkala Beach is a hidden gem. Backed by striking red cliffs and natural springs, Varkala is known for its pristine sands and serene atmosphere. The cliffs offer stunning views of the Arabian Sea, and the beach itself is less crowded, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.
Other notable beaches include Marari Beach, known for its laid-back vibe and clean surroundings, and Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach, where visitors can drive their vehicles right onto the sand. Whether you’re a sun-seeker or someone who prefers long walks by the shore, Kerala’s beaches cater to all.
5. Wonderful Wildlife: A Nature Lover’s Haven
Kerala’s diverse ecosystems are home to an incredible array of flora and fauna. With over 25 wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, the state offers plenty of opportunities to explore its rich biodiversity. Kerala’s Western Ghats are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, housing many rare and endangered species.
One of the most famous wildlife destinations in Kerala is the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady. This sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and a variety of birds. Visitors can take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to witness the wildlife in its natural habitat. For bird enthusiasts, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary in Kochi offers a chance to spot a wide range of migratory and resident birds.
Eravikulam National Park in Munnar is another must-visit, especially for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park is also known for the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years, covering the hills in a carpet of blue.
6. Fabulous Festivals: A Celebration of Life
Indian rich cultural heritage is pleasingly experienced during Kerala’s vibrant festivals. One of the most significant festivals being Onam, a ten-day harvest festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across the state. The festival, which usually takes place in August or September, includes traditional dances like Kathakali and Thiruvathira, flower arrangements (Pookalam), and grand feasts (Onasadya) served on banana leaves.
Another popular festival is Thrissur Pooram, known for its grand elephant processions, fireworks, and traditional percussion performances. Celebrated at the Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur, this festival is a spectacle of Kerala’s cultural and religious traditions.
The Kerala Boat Festival is another must-see event, where traditional snake boats race through the backwaters to the beat of drums and songs. Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, is celebrated in April with fireworks, feasts, and the ritual of Vishu Kani, where an auspicious arrangement of items is displayed to bring prosperity for the year ahead.
7. Embrace Ayurveda and Yoga: A Journey to Wellness
A global hub for Ayurveda, Kerala reflects the ancient Indian system of medicine that promotes holistic well-being through a balance of body, mind, and spirit. The state is home to numerous Ayurvedic resorts and wellness centres offering treatments that range from detoxification therapies to stress relief and anti-aging programs. Ayurvedic massages, herbal remedies, and customized dietary plans are all part of the healing experience.
Yoga, a practice deeply intertwined with Ayurveda, is also widely practiced in Kerala. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced yogi, you can find wellness retreats offering daily yoga sessions in peaceful settings like the backwaters, beaches, and hill stations. Devvrat Yoga Sangha is one of the perfect destinations for yoga and wellness enthusiasts.
8. Visit a Spice Plantation: Explore Kerala’s Fragrant Gardens
Kerala has been known as the “Spice Garden of India” for centuries, thanks to its thriving spice trade. The state’s spice plantations, particularly in regions like Thekkady, Munnar, and Wayanad, offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of spices. Visitors can explore plantations where pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla are grown, and learn about their cultivation, harvesting, and processing.
The Periyar Spice Plantation near Thekkady is one of the most popular plantations to visit. You can also shop for fresh spices at local markets and bring home a fragrant piece of Kerala’s spice heritage.
9. Art and Tradition: A Rich Woven Cultural Landscape
Kerala’s cultural scene is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. One of the highlights is the state’s classical dance form, Kathakali, which combines intricate makeup, elaborate costumes, and expressive movements to tell stories from ancient Hindu epics. Visitors can watch a live Kathakali performance at cultural centres like the Kerala Kathakali Centre in Kochi.
Another important aspect of Kerala’s cultural heritage is Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art that is believed to be one of the oldest fighting systems in the world. Many centres in Kerala offer demonstrations and classes in this traditional art form.
Kerala’s art and craft traditions are equally impressive. From coir products to handloom textiles and bamboo crafts, Kerala’s local artisans create beautiful handicrafts that make for perfect souvenirs. Be sure to explore the local markets and museums for a deeper appreciation of Kerala’s artistic heritage.
So Are You Ready to Visit Kerala?
Kerala is a destination that offers something for every traveller—whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or spiritual growth. From its serene backwaters and pristine beaches to its lush hill stations and vibrant festivals, Kerala promises an unforgettable experience. If you’re planning your next holiday to India, consider Kerala for a tailor-made adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.