Kerala

Kerala – God’s own country, conjures in one’s mind, an image of pristine backwaters, palm fringed beaches, tranquil villages and greenery in profusion. Thiruvananthapuram the capital of Kerala is one of the largest cities in the state of Kerala. Formerly, it was known as Trivandrum. It is the capital city of Kerala bounded by the Arabian Sea. It is located at the South-Western tip of India. Being India's largest city in South India, it is a major tourist centre for every traveler. Dating back to 1000 BCE, it is an ancient region with trading traditions. The city gets its name fromfrom the Malayalam language word, Thiru-anantha-puram that means "Abode of Lord Ananta". It was names after Anantha Padmanabha or Lord Vishnu. The first history of Kerala was appearing in the inscriptions of the Mauryan Emperor, Ashoka (269-232 B.C. It is a home place for many ancient temples and has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It comprises of windy backwaters, historical buildings, tranquil beaches and others. The State is also famous for pilgrimage centre where Padmanabha Swamy Temple is one of the prominent ancient temples that attract thousands of tourists from all over India. It is a paradise for beach lovers. A much sought-after destination for tourists in India and abroad, Kerala is named as one of the ‘Ten Paradises of the World’ and ‘Fifty Places of a Lifetime’ by the National Geographic Traveler Magazine. Kerala is a very easy place to simply sit back and enjoy. The name means "land of coconuts" and the palms shade nearly the entire state from the tropical sun; many call the beach at Kovalam the best in India, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush green hill stations and exotic wildlife, ayurvedic health resorts, enchanting art forms, magical festivals, historic and cultural monuments, an exotic cuisine… all of which offers a unique experience.

Tradition and Culture of Kerala:

Kerala is very rich in it’s tradition and culture. The tradition and culture of Kerala is famous all over the globe. It is a major intellectual and artistic center. Kerala is marked with many great poet,scholar, researcher, historian and men of letters from ancient time. The citizens of this city are humble and who are sometimes referred to as ‘Keralites ’. It has all the potential to emerge as a major industrial state and destination for investment. It is an ideal place for famous paintings that are preserved at the Sree Chithra Art Gallery as tourist attractions. The contributions of A. R. Raja Raja known as “Kerala Panini,” marked an important stage in the development of Malayalam literature. Kovalam Literary Festival is the major festival that is celebrated in Thiruvananthapuram. However, beneath it there is a buzz of cultural activities that comes to life during festive seasons. The film culture of the city is extremely strong that has become the venue of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK). Keralite cuisine is very popular and characterized by plenty of coconut and spices. The city comprises unique charms of rich cultural with no compromise in traditions and beliefs that it holds from years.

Fairs and Festivals of Kerala:

Fairs and Festivals of Kerala:The fairs and festivals in Kerala is a mirror of the lifestyle of the people of Kerala. These fairs and festivals attract a large number of visitors from all over the world throughout the year. Some of the major fairs and festivals of Kerala are.Some of the most famous fairs and festivals of Kerala are:

  • Onam: Onam is a harvest festival of Kerala, celebrated for 10 days in the month of August/September with great zeal and enthusiasm and it is believed that King Mahabali visits his followers during the Onam festival.One of the most exciting elements in this festival is the Kerala snake boat race, which is held on the mesmerizing backwaters of Kerala.  
  • Vallamkali Boat Race: To mark the celebration of Onam people of Kerala organize boat races The Vallamkali boat race held on the second Saturday of August each year at Alappuzha is the world's largest team sport.
  • Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race: The race is named after the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and is held two weeks after the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. The boat race offers enjoyment, thrill and fun in plenty.
  • Pongal: Pongal is a major festival of Kerala which is also Known as Makar Sankranti and is celebrated in almost all parts of the country with different names. Thousands of people take a dip in places like Ganga Sagar and Prayag and pray to Lord Sun. It is celebrated with great joy in southern parts of the country like Kerala as Pongal in the month of January. Pongal is celebrated for four days as Bhogi Pongal, Thai Pongal, Mattu Pongal and Kanum Pongal. Each day of Pongal has its own significance and rituals.
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Must Visiting Places In Kerala:

  • Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Trivandrum: Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the most renowned temples in the state of Kerala. It is the world’s richest Hindu temple. The structure of the temple is a fusion of the indigenous Kerala style and the Dravidian style. Main deity of this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu enshrined in the "Anantha Shayanam" posture. Lakhs of devotees visit this temple every year.
  • Zoological Zoo/Gardens, Trivandrum: Zoological zoo of Trivandrum is the oldest zoo in India that was established as early as 1859. Similarly, the Botanical Gardens are also the oldest of their kind in India. It is a unique and most breathtaking landscape. It is one of the best tourist places and offers tourism and recreation for visitors reaching from outside Kerala and overseas. It was considered as picnic spots in the past.
  • Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin), Kerala: Kanyakumari is also known as also known as Kanniyakumari. Formerly it is known as Cape Comorin. It is 90kms away from Trivandrum. It is the land’s where the three seas meet. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in India. Kanyakumari is notable for pilgrimage tourism. It is a great centre for art and religion for centuries.It is a beautiful and alluring tourist place with lots of tourist attractions. Best spot to witness sunrise and sunset. 
  • Alleppey Beach, Alappuzha: Alleppey Beach is a magnificent and a popular backwater destination in the state of Kerala. It is famous for its boat races, backwater holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry.Alappuzha beach is one of the major tourist spots and a famous for picnic spot. There is a great viewpoint of an old lighthouse nearby the beach that attracts tourist from all over India. The beach has a 150-year-old pier which extends to the sea.
  • Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha:Vembanad Lake is the longest lake in India and the largest lake in the state of Kerala. It offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages on the backwaters. During the Onam festival, one can experience the spectacular snake boat races. It is a must visiting place if you are have included a journey to Alleppey in your tour itinerary. It gives you a mesmerizing view with lots of aquatic plants. 
  • Aluva Palace, Aluva: Alwaye is an important industrial town of Ernakulam as well as an important tourist spot in Kerala. This palace is also known as Aluva Palace.  It is a glorious monument of the ancient past of Kerela. You will be transported to the glorious historic timesthrough a visit to this palace. Alwaye Palace used to be the summer residency of the Travancore royalty. It attracts several tourists every year from India and abroad equally.
  • Athirappilly falls, Athirappilly: This waterfall is nestled in Arthirappillypanchayath in Thrissur, Kerela. It is surrounded by abundant greenery that adds touch to its existing beauty. This waterfall is also known as India’sNiagara.This falls is used as a location for several Malayalam films because of its scenic beauty. 
  • Bekal Fort, Bekal:Bekal Fort is one of the largest fort in the state of Kerala. It is situated near beside the Bekal beach which gives a soothing affection to every visitor. The fort was built especially for fulfilling defense requirements. The holes on the outer walls of the fort are specially designed to defend the fort effectively. From the top of the fort one can view the paranomic view of the beach. Inside the fort there is a Hanuman temple named Mukhyaprana Temple and an ancient mosque which are the age-old religious harmony that prevailed in this area.
  • Perunna Subramanyaswami Temple, Changanassery:It is a well-known Hindu Temple located in Changanassery.The main deity is Muruganthat is worshipped in the temple. Murugan is one of the three sons of Lord Vishnu. The deity is in the form of Devasenapathi, the supreme general of the holy forces. Itis worth visit if you want to see the classical Kerala style of architecture.
  • Guruvayoor Temple,Guruvayur:This temple is also known as Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. It is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Krishna (an avatar of the god Vishnu). It is an important worship places for Hindus.Guruvayur is also known as "Dwarka of South India". It is often referred to as "BhulokaVaikunta" which translates to the "Holy Abode of Vishnu on Earth".
  • Idukki Dam, Idukki: It is a dam that is constructed across the Periyar River. It is a double curvature arch dam and one of the highest arch dams in Asia. This dam is owed by the Kerala State Electricity Board. An artificial lake has been created that attracts a lot of tourist. 
  • The Chinese Fishing Nets, Kochi: It is one of the most famous tourist attraction in Kochi. The Chinese Fishing Nets of Kochi is believed to be have been introduced in Kochi by Chinese explorer Zheng He. It was established between 1350 and 1450 AD. It is, undoubtedly, one of the most photographed sights in Kochi. On should head to the Vasco da Gama Square for the best view of the nets. 
  • Marine Drive, Kochi:It is a popular hangout place in Kochi. It offers a spectacular view of the backwaters and the Kochi Harbour. There are other attractions like The Rainbow Bridge and the International Tourism Boat Jetty Complex. It is also an important centre of shopping activity in Kochi.
  • Fort Kochi, Kochi:There is no better choice than setting out on foot to explore the historic town of Fort Kochi. Collectively it is also known as Old Kochi or West Kochi. It is a jewel in the crown of Kerala. While talking a walk, one can have a glimpse of Fort Immanuel.
  • Mattancherry Palace, Kochi:Mattancherry palace is popularly known as the Dutch Palace. Tourist can experience the Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi. This palace was built by the Portuguese around 1555and gifted to the King of Cochin.
  • Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam:It is one of the most famous tourist destination in Kovalam. It is the largest among the three beaches which is a must visit beach of Kovalam. Lighthouse Beach is named after the 30-meter-high Light house which is located beside the beach. This beach can thrill any adventure tourist that includes Swimming, surfing, parasailing and paragliding etc.
  • Hawah Beach, Kovalam:Hawah Beach is another beach that attracts many touriststhat is located around 16 km south of the city center, Kovalam.  This beach is also known as Eve's beach. It is a unique elegance to this place. Tourist can view the majestic sunset view from this beach. It is also an ideal place for honeymooners too. 
  • Samudra Beach, Kovalam:Samudra Beach is an awesome sight lying to the north of the Ashok Beach. This beach is a scenic jewel to Kovalam. It’s a mix of sand beach and rock beach with an arch shaped.  This beach is like tourist’s paradise. 
  • Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom:Vembanad Lake is an enchanting picnic spot and a fast-developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. It is the longest lake in India and one of the largest lake in the state of Kerala. 
  • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom:Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the one of the most tourist visiting attraction that is located in the Kottayam district of Kerala. Bird watching is the major activity that the tourists indulge them in Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Varieties of birds can be seen in this sanctuary. This place is also considered ‘Garden of Eden’ for Ornithologists.
  • Kumarakom Beach,Kumarakom: Tourist who wants to enjoy water skiing, wind surfing, parasailing, boating, swimming and water polo, Kumarakom Beach will be the ideal place for them. Everything you need is relaxation. Best place to enjoy vacation. 
  • Mattupetty Dam, Munnar: It is a famous hill town and main attraction in Mattupetty, located near the confluence of the mountain streams of Muthirappuzha River, Chanduvarai River and Kundale River.The Mattupetty Dam and the beautiful lake are ideal picnic spot and is visited by many tourists. Visitors can enjoy a serene boat ride on the calm waters.
  • Munnar Tea Museum, Munnar:Munnar is famous for world class tea gardens. One can take a visit to the tea museum. Tata Tea recently opened a Tea Museum which houses curious, photographs and machineries for the visitors who loves to have a sip of tea. Efforts are given to make Munnara major plantation centre of Kerala.
  • Eravikulam National Park, Munnar:This is a renowned national park located along the Western Ghats in the Idukki district of Kerala. Eravikulam National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, administered by the Kerala Department of Forests and Wildlife. It is an ideal place for seeing the biodiversity of high elevation shola-grassland ecosystem.Famous forNilgiriTahr, the most endangered mountain goat of South India. 
  • Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:Thekkady, is an example of nature’s bounty with great scenic charm.Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (PNP) is a protected area in the districts of Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta in Kerala, India. It is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuary in South India. There is an artificial lake created by the British in 1895. Best place for photography and other jungle activities.

Cuisines of Kerala:

Kerala is heaven for food-lover's. One can enjoy various types of food, ranging from the traditional sadya to seafood delicacies. Kerala cuisine offers a multitude of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes prepared using fish, poultry and red meat with rice a typical accompaniment. Chillies, curry leaves, mustard seeds, turmeric tamarind and asafoetida are all frequently used.

All Destinations in Kerala