Kerala

Kerala Travel Guide: God’s Own Country

Discover Kerala’s history, culture, attractions, backwaters, and best travel tips in this detailed guide to God’s Own Country.

Kerala, often called God’s Own Country, is a tropical paradise located on the Malabar Coast of southern India. Known for its serene backwaters, lush green landscapes, spice plantations, and pristine beaches, Kerala attracts millions of travelers each year. The state is celebrated for its rich cultural traditions, classical art forms, Ayurveda therapies, and delicious cuisine, making it one of India’s most sought-after tourist destinations.

History & Cultural Significance

Kerala’s history is as fascinating as its natural beauty. Ancient trade routes brought Romans, Arabs, and Chinese merchants to its shores, primarily for spices like pepper and cardamom. Later, European powers including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British established their presence here, leaving behind forts, churches, and colonial architecture.

Culturally, Kerala is home to unique art forms such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Kalaripayattu, one of the oldest martial arts in the world. Temples, mosques, and churches coexist harmoniously, reflecting Kerala’s diverse spiritual heritage. Festivals like Onam and Vishu showcase the state’s vibrant traditions, featuring colorful processions, traditional games, and the famous Vallam Kali (snake boat race).

Major Attractions

Kerala offers a wide variety of attractions for travelers:

1. Backwaters

• Alleppey (Alappuzha): Famous for houseboat cruises along scenic canals and lagoons.
• Kumarakom: A tranquil village on Vembanad Lake, ideal for bird watching and relaxation.

2. Beaches

• Kovalam: Known for its crescent-shaped shoreline and lively atmosphere.
• Varkala: A cliff-top beach with stunning views and a spiritual vibe.
• Marari: A peaceful retreat for those seeking serenity.

3. Hill Stations

• Munnar: Rolling tea plantations, waterfalls, and misty mountains.
• Wayanad: Lush forests, caves, and wildlife sanctuaries.
• Thekkady: Famous for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice gardens.

4. Temples & Heritage Sites

• Guruvayur Temple: One of the most sacred Krishna temples.
• Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram: A marvel of Dravidian architecture.
• Mattancherry Palace & Fort Kochi: Showcase Kerala’s colonial past.

5. Wildlife Sanctuaries

• Periyar National Park: Known for elephants and boat safaris.
• Silent Valley National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich biodiversity.

Activities & Experiences

Kerala offers endless experiences for every kind of traveler:

• Houseboat Stays: Drift through the tranquil backwaters in a luxury houseboat.
• Ayurvedic Treatments: Rejuvenate with traditional therapies and massages.
• Adventure Sports: Trekking in Wayanad, bamboo rafting in Periyar, paragliding in Vagamon.
• Cultural Shows: Watch Kathakali dance and Kalaripayattu martial art performances.
• Shopping: Explore spice markets, handicrafts, and traditional Kerala sarees.
• Festivals: Attend the grand Thrissur Pooram or vibrant snake boat races.
• Cuisine: Savor Kerala specialties like appam with stew, karimeen pollichathu, and banana chips.

Best Time to Visit

• Winter (October to February): Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing, beaches, and wildlife.
• Monsoon (June to September): Ideal for Ayurveda treatments and experiencing Kerala’s lush greenery.
• Summer (March to May): Warm but good for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad.

The best time overall is from October to March when the climate is most comfortable.

How to Reach

• By Air: Kerala has four international airports – Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur.
• By Train: Well-connected rail network linking major Indian cities.
• By Road: National highways and state highways connect Kerala to neighboring states.
• By Water: Ferry services operate in backwater regions and coastal towns.

Entry Fees & Timings

• Temples: Most temples are free, but some require a small donation. Dress codes are strictly enforced.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Entry fees range from ₹50–₹500 depending on the location and activity (safari/trekking).
• Museums & Palaces: Charges are usually between ₹20–₹100. Timings vary from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Beaches: Open to all, usually free entry.

Accommodation Options

Kerala offers stays for every budget:

• Budget Stays: Homestays in Alleppey, guesthouses in Fort Kochi (₹800–₹1,500/night).
• Mid-Range Hotels: Boutique hotels and resorts in Munnar or Varkala (₹2,000–₹5,000/night).
• Luxury Resorts: Houseboats in Alleppey, beach resorts in Kovalam, and five-star hotels like Le Méridien Kochi, Taj Bekal, and Grand Hyatt Bolgatty (₹8,000–₹20,000+/night).

Travel Tips

• Local Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples.
• Transport: Auto-rickshaws and app cabs are widely available, but negotiate fares in advance if not using a meter.
• Packing Essentials: Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and an umbrella/raincoat during monsoons.
• Safety: Kerala is generally safe, but always secure your belongings and avoid isolated beaches after dark.
• Responsible Tourism: Respect wildlife, avoid plastic, and support local communities by purchasing authentic products.

Kerala is a destination that beautifully blends nature, culture, history, and modern experiences. From the serene backwaters and misty hill stations to vibrant festivals and Ayurvedic wellness, every traveler finds something unique here. Whether it’s a family vacation, honeymoon, or solo journey, Kerala promises unforgettable memories. Truly, it lives up to its name – God’s Own Country.