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Kerela
India
Visit Kerela
Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is a tropical paradise nestled along the southwestern coast of India. This enchanting region is renowned for its lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, and pristine beaches, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The state's unique geography, which includes the Western Ghats' mist-covered mountains and the Arabian Sea's tranquil coastlines, provides a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, adding to its allure as a nature lover's haven.
A visit to Kerala is incomplete without experiencing its famous backwaters, a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets. A houseboat cruise on these backwaters, especially in places like Alleppey and Kumarakom, offers a unique glimpse into the rural life of Kerala. As you glide through the water, you can observe lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and simple villages where life moves at a leisurely pace. These houseboats themselves are marvels, often made entirely of wood and coir, and offer all the comforts of a good hotel, including furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, and kitchens.
Kerala's cultural heritage is another of its treasures, with the state being a significant center for traditional arts and festivals. Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, two of the most famous dance forms originating from this region, encapsulate stories of gods and demons through intricate gestures and expressive facial movements. The annual Onam festival, a celebration that includes boat races, traditional games, and elaborate feasts, showcases Kerala's rich traditions and community spirit. Additionally, the state's cuisine is noteworthy, characterized by the use of coconut and spices, offering a variety of vegetarian and seafood dishes that are both delicious and unique to the region.
Moreover, Kerala's commitment to wellness and its status as a hub for Ayurvedic health treatments attract wellness enthusiasts from around the globe. The natural abundance of herbs and medicinal plants, combined with the centuries-old knowledge of Ayurveda, allows visitors to indulge in rejuvenating therapies and holistic health regimens. Whether it's a soothing massage, a yoga session by the beach, or a cleansing Ayurvedic diet, Kerala provides a perfect backdrop for a health-focused retreat. Thus, Kerala not only rejuvenates the mind and body but also offers a deep connection with nature and tradition, making every visit a memorable one.
Kerela Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
70°F
86°F
12
February
68°F
86°F
9
March
73°F
86°F
12
April
73°F
86°F
12
May
77°F
86°F
12
June
77°F
86°F
12
July
77°F
86°F
12
August
77°F
86°F
12
September
75°F
86°F
12
October
75°F
86°F
12
November
73°F
86°F
12
December
68°F
86°F
12
Need to Know Before You Go To Kerela
Nickname:
God's Own Country
Primary Language:
Malayalam
Time Zone:
Asia/Kolkata
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type C, Type D, Type M
Annual Visitors:
Approximately 15 million.
Primary Export:
Spices
Busiest Travel Months:
December, January, November
Quietest Travel Months:
July, June, May
Find your Next Adventure in Kerela
Explore Kerela
Iconic Landmarks
Backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha) - Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," the backwaters of Alleppey are a network of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Houseboat cruises on these backwaters offer picturesque views of paddy fields, quaint villages, and exotic local life.
Munnar Tea Gardens - Munnar is a premier hill station in Kerala known for its sprawling tea gardens. The rolling hills covered in a blanket of green tea plantations are a sight to behold and make for a refreshing retreat.
Fort Kochi - Fort Kochi is a historic area located in the city of Kochi. It is famous for its colonial architecture, historical sites like the St. Francis Church (where Vasco da Gama was once buried), and the iconic Chinese fishing nets at the beach.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple - Located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is renowned for its Dravidian style of architecture and the mystery of its hidden treasures, making it one of the wealthiest temples in the world.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - Situated in Thekkady, this wildlife sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, and a variety of other fauna. The sanctuary is set around the picturesque Periyar Lake, where visitors can take boat rides to observe wildlife.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary - Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Wayanad is known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. The sanctuary is an integral part of the Wayanad Plateau and offers opportunities for trekking and wildlife spotting.
These landmarks offer a glimpse into the diverse attractions that Kerala has to offer, from natural beauty and wildlife to rich history and culture.
Cultural Experiences
Kathakali Performance:
Kathakali is a traditional dance form known for its intricate makeup, elaborate costumes, and detailed gestures. Watching a Kathakali performance offers insight into the ancient storytelling traditions of Kerala.
Theyyam Ritual:
Theyyam is a ritualistic performance that is particularly popular in the northern parts of Kerala. It is known for its vibrant costumes and intense dance movements, and it is performed in front of shrines. Theyyam is not just a form of entertainment but a ritual dance that seeks to evoke the gods.
Backwater Cruise in Alleppey:
A cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey offers a unique glimpse into the rural life of Kerala.
Visit to the Tea Gardens of Munnar:
Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea gardens and colonial-era bungalows. Visiting these tea plantations can provide insights into the tea-making process, from plucking tea leaves to their processing in factories. The lush greenery and cool climate make it a refreshing experience.
Kerala Cuisine Experience:
Kerala’s cuisine is characterized by the use of coconut, rice, and seafood. Participating in a cooking class or enjoying a traditional Kerala meal, such as a Sadhya (a multi-course meal served on a banana leaf), offers a taste of local flavors and cooking techniques.
Temple Festivals:
Kerala is home to numerous temples, each hosting annual festivals with processions, traditional music, and elephant parades.
Outdoor Adventures
Houseboat Cruising in the Backwaters - One of the most iconic experiences in Kerala is cruising through its serene backwaters, especially in Alleppey and Kumarakom. You can rent a traditional houseboat (kettuvallam) and enjoy the scenic beauty of the palm-lined waters, observing rural life and birdwatching.
Trekking in Munnar - Munnar is a hill station known for its sprawling tea gardens and misty hills. Trekking routes here offer stunning views of the Western Ghats. Popular treks include Anamudi Peak, which is the highest peak in South India, and the trek through Eravikulam National Park where you might spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Wildlife Safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - Located in Thekkady, Periyar is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in South India. You can go on a boat safari on Periyar Lake or participate in jungle patrols and night treks. The sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and a variety of birds.
Paragliding in Vagamon - Vagamon, with its rolling green hills and cool climate, is becoming a popular spot for paragliding in Kerala. The adventure sport offers breathtaking views of the region’s natural beauty, making it a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts.
Bamboo Rafting in Wayanad - Wayanad, known for its thick forests and rich tribal heritage, offers a unique outdoor activity called bamboo rafting in the Kuruva Island’s river streams. It’s a peaceful way to explore the dense forests and spot wildlife.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Kovalam - The coastal town of Kovalam offers some of the best watersports in Kerala, including snorkeling and scuba diving. The clear waters provide good visibility to explore marine life and coral reefs. There are several certified diving schools that offer courses and guided dives.
Each of these activities provides a unique way to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kerala, making them must-try experiences for any outdoor enthusiast visiting the region.
Off the Beaten Path
Visit the Theyyam Performances in Kannur:
Theyyam is a fascinating ritualistic form of worship combining dance, mime, and music, predominantly seen in the northern parts of Kerala. Attending a Theyyam event, which usually takes place in small village shrines, provides a deep insight into the local culture and spirituality. The vibrant costumes and intense performances make this a truly mesmerizing experience.
Explore the Ranipuram Hills:
Often referred to as the "Ooty of Kerala," Ranipuram is known for its trekking trails and diverse ecosystems. Located in Kasaragod district, it's less crowded compared to more popular hill stations like Munnar. The area offers beautiful landscapes, cool climate, and the chance to see a variety of wildlife and exotic plants.
Stay in a Tree House in Wayanad:
For a unique accommodation experience, consider staying in a tree house in Wayanad. Nestled amidst dense forests, staying in a tree house offers a close connection with nature and an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle of modern life. It’s also a great spot for bird watching and exploring nearby tribal villages.
Canoeing in Kavvayi Backwaters:
While the Alleppey backwaters are famous, the Kavvayi Backwaters located near Payyanur offer a much quieter and equally beautiful alternative. You can rent a canoe or a kayak and navigate the serene waterways, explore small islands, and observe daily life in the backwater villages.
Visit the Edakkal Caves in Wayanad:
These are not typical caves but rather a cleft or rift formed by a piece of rock splitting away from the main body. Famous for their ancient petroglyphs that date back to the Neolithic era, these caves are a fascinating visit for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. The hike to the caves also offers scenic views of the surrounding areas.
Explore the Kolukkumalai Tea Estates:
Claimed to be the highest tea plantation in the world, Kolukkumalai is about 7,900 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the rolling tea gardens and rugged mountains. The journey to Kolukkumalai is an adventure in itself, involving a rugged jeep ride. You can also learn about traditional tea making and enjoy fresh tea right from the gardens.
Kerela Fun Facts
Kerala, a state on the southwestern Malabar Coast of India, is known for its unique geography, rich culture, and distinctive traditions. Here are the top 10 fun facts about Kerala:
- God’s Own Country: Kerala is often referred to as "God’s Own Country," a slogan that attracts tourists to its lush green landscapes and tranquil backwaters.
- Highest Literacy Rate: Kerala boasts the highest literacy rate in India, often close to 100%. The state also has the highest Human Development Index (HDI) in the country.
- Origin of Ayurveda: Kerala is considered a major center for Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that originated in India over 3,000 years ago. The state is home to many Ayurvedic training centers and retreats.
- Kathakali and Mohiniyattam: Kerala is famous for its traditional dance forms, Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. Kathakali is known for its elaborate costumes and makeup, while Mohiniyattam is characterized by graceful movements.
- Backwaters and Houseboats: The backwaters of Kerala, a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets, are a major attraction. Houseboats offer tourists a unique way to experience the scenic beauty of these waters.
- First Digital State: Kerala became India's first digital state by achieving 100% mobile connectivity and having the highest number of digital banking users and internet subscribers in the country.
- Rich Biodiversity: The Western Ghats, one of the world’s eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity, runs along Kerala. The state is home to the exotic Nilgiri Tahr, several unique bird species, and the largest population of wild elephants in India.
- Matriarchal Society: Unlike most other parts of India, certain communities in Kerala follow a matrilineal system where lineage and inheritance are traced through the female line.
- Onam Festival: Kerala's most celebrated festival, Onam, marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. It features a grand feast called Onasadya, snake boat races, and vibrant dance performances.
- Unique Cuisine: Kerala cuisine is characterized by the extensive use of coconut and spices, reflecting the state’s long history of spice trade. Dishes like appam, puttu, and sadhya are popular, along with seafood specialties.
Featured Picture Gallery
Kayak Through Munroe Island
Aerial Shot of Kerela
This is a Typical Kerela House Boat, Which is a Common Living Space
Kerela is One of India's Major Coconut Exporters
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