Kerala An Overview

>> Sunday, July 26, 2009



About Kerala

Kerala, popularly known and believed as God's Own Country,is an ideal destination for business traveler as well as holidaymaker.One of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia, Kerala is India's only tropical paradise.The state is blessed with myriad features like dense tropical forests, beautiful beaches,cliffs,rocky coasts,an intricate maze of backwaters, still bays and astounding 44 radiant rivers.The cleanest andmost peaceful state of India, Kerala has cent percent literacy.Kerala is a treasure trove of indigenous cultural practices and art forms that have mesmerized people all over the world.

Basking in the generosity of the sun and rain the climate of Kerala supports a lush vegetation and a wide array of wildlife unlike anywhere else in the country.This miraculously unspoiled serene wilderness is all nature lovers' paradise and rapidly

gaining momentum as a popular tourist hub in and around the country.

Tips to Travel

Traveling to Kerala is always a rewarding and unique experience. But traveling to Kerala can top the chart of your holiday experiences if you keep a few things in mind. Here is some of the travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip to Kerala.

Travel Tips for Kerala :

  • Clothes- wear soft cotton clothing on the beaches. For the hill stations carry light warm clothing as the nights can get chilly. Winters bring cold nights on the Western Ghats.

  • Camera and Binoculars- The beautiful places you share with your family or partner at Kerala needs to be frozen in time. Your camera is therefore a must. Binoculars are most important if you are planning to hit the wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala.

  • Tanning cream and sun guard lotions -The beaches in Kerala are marvelous getaways for tourists. But the bright omnipresent sun is ready to give you a perfect tan.

  • Try out authentic Kerala Cuisine - The spices of Kerala make a lip smacking table. Do not miss it.

  • Sail out on a local Fishing Boat - If you want the rustic experience, abandon the resort yacht and sail hire a local fisherman to take you out on the seas.

  • Coconut Water - The coconuts in Kerala are mind blowing. The sweetness of their water puts sugar syrup to shame. Remember that.

  • Houseboats- the best way to explore the Backwaters is on a houseboat.

  • Shopping - In Kerala you can shop for coir articles since that is a prominent industry in Kerala. Trinkets made of wood, sandalwood, buffalo horn make perfect souvenirs for your loved ones back home. If you are an ayurveda therapy buff you can buy medicines and massage oils from kerala.

  • Onam - the harvest festival in Kerala is celebrated during August-September. The famous boat races take place on the 5 th day of Onam usually in the first week of September. Those interested to witness the races are advised to visit during his time.

Onam
Onam
Houseboat
Houseboat

To Reach Kerala

Kerala, located in the southwestern tip of India, can be reached conveniently by Air, Road, Rail and Sea.

Air

The two international airports in Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and Kochi International Airport, and a domestic airport in Kozhikode are strategically located. All public and private airlines operating regular flights link these airports to major airports in India as well as abroad.

Road

Kerala is easily accessible by road from any part of the country through National Highways 17, 47 and 49. Directly connected by road with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, the state of Kerala has a network between its important cities by a number of state highways and other metallic roads.

Rail

Most of the places in and out of Kerala are interconnected by 200 Railway Stations . Direct trains to Kerala can be availed from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Calcutta and other major Indian cities.

Sea

From Kochi, there are regular ships venturing towards the Lakshadweep Islands. Within the state, the backwaters of Kerala are not only a popular means of transportation, but tourist attractions as well. Presently, these internal water navigation systems are the single most popular travel product of Kerala with its Public ferry services , speed-boats and houseboats or ‘ ketuvallams .'

History Of Kerala

 

One of the prettiest provinces in India, Kerala is today one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known for its rich history and culture, Kerala is blessed with a number of tourist attractions which draw countless of tourists to her shores each year. Also known as "God's Own Country", Kerala is truly blessed by divine powers, which is evident from the various picturesque locales that surround the land. However, another important tourist attraction of Kerala is the history of Kerala, which has left its mark on the entirety of the state as well as its culture.

Culture Of Kerala

Blessed with locales that are naturally picturesque, Kerala truly deserves her title as "God's own country", which does wonders in enriching the tourism industry of Kerala. Coupled with this, another important factor that draws tourists to Tamil Nadu is its rich cultural heritage, which dates back to times immemorial. Influenced heavily by the Dravidian culture, the culture of Kerala is unique in it and still proudly preserved amongst almost all the households and families of Kerala.

Some of the sub divisions of the culture of Kerala include:

Dances of Kerala: Kerala, like almost all the parts of India, is famous for her individualistic styles of dancing which include:

  • Kathakali

  • Chavittunatakom

  • Oppana

  • Krishnanattom

  • Mohiniyattom

  • Thiruvathirakali

  • Kolkkali

  • Thullal

  • Kootiyattom

  • Duffmuttu

Music of Kerala: The music of Kerala plays an extremely important role in the development of the culture of Kerala. The main form of music practiced in the state includes the Carnatic classical music which is common to almost all the various Dravidian civilizations.

Literature of Kerala: The origin of Malayalam literature like the other forms of culture in Kerala dates back to times immemorial with a number of prominent names of Malayalam literature like Madhava Panikkar, Sankara Panikkar and Rama Panikkar as well as many notable poets like Kumaaran Asaan,Vallathol Narayana Menon and Ulloor S. Parameswara Iyer being some of the famous names associated with the literature of Kerala.

Weather In Kerala

The climate of Kerala changes to some extent with the season 
and thus, it is essential to know the weather of Kerala while
choosing the best time to visit Kerala.
 

Weather in Kerala:

Located near the Tropic of Cancer, most of Kerala has a hot 
and humid climate with a more than average rainfall as 
compared to other provinces of India. The weather of Kerala 
can be divided into 4 seasons, which are winter, summer, 
south west monsoon and north east monsoon. The summer season
in Kerala stretches from the months of February and continues
up to May. Temperature remains almost on a constant high 
throughout the season which is also accompanied by lightning
and heavy rainfall. 
Summer in Kerala is followed by the South West Monsoon, 
which lasts from the end of May to September and is 
characterized by extremely heavy rainfall which brings a 
welcome relief from the oppressive heat of the summers. 
October sees the advent of the northeast monsoon which 
basically signifies the end of the monsoons and is followed 
by the winter season which arrives in Kerala around the 
middle of December remaining in the state till around 
February. Winters are definitely the best time to visit 
Kerala if you are planning a holiday in Kerala.
 
 
 

Tourist Attractions in Kerala

Tourists from all over the world travel to Kerala to enjoy an Indian holiday on the beaches, backwaters and hills of Kerala. Traveler's come to see Kerala's wildlife sanctuaries, historic cities and temples. Stressed out urban dwellers rejuvenate themselves at the ayurveda spas and resorts in Kerala. On their Indian Holiday they discover why Kerala is truly "God's own country".

Some of the Tourist Attractions in Kerala are:

Thiruvananthapuram: The capital of Kerala, was earlier called Trivandrum and is known for its mild climate. The Sri Ananthapadmanabhaswamy temple, the Sri Chitra Art gallery, palaces of the family of the Maharajas of Travancore, museums and the beautiful Kovalam beach not far away, make Trivandrum a pleasant Indian holiday destination.

Kovalam Beach: Rated among the best beaches in the world, Kovalam beach is situated 18 km from Thiruvananthapuram. You can enjoy sunbathing on the sandy beach, or swimming in the Arabian Sea. There are also facilities for water sports such as surfing, jet skiing, water skiing and catamaran rides.

Kochi: Known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea" Kochi (Cochin) is a busy port city, which is known for the Chinese fishing nets in its harbor, the Jewish synagogue, St Francis Church, the Dutch Palace at Matancherry, Fort Cochin and the Santa Cruz Basilica. Cochin harbor is also an attractive sight with ships, people and tourists coming together to ensure there's never a dull moment.

Alappuzha: Some of the most scenic Kerala backwaters are to be seen near this town of the coast of Kerala, India. Allapuzha is the venue for the annual snake boat races held during the Onam festival, where teams compete for the Nehru Gold Cup. The event is a popular tourist attraction where crowds gather to cheer their favorite teams.

Kumarakom: This group of islands in Vembanad Lake is an out of this world destination. The beauty of the swaying palm trees, green paddy fields, waterways and the sound of birdsong from the nearby bird sanctuary makes an Indian Holiday at Kumarakom, truly unforgettable.

Backwaters: The backwaters of Kerala, are calm palm-fringed waterways that connect villages along the coast, particularly around Allapuzha. You can enjoy a cruise on a traditional houseboat or Kettuvallom into a serene world of quiet water and greenery interrupted only by the sound of rippling water and birdcalls.

Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resorts: Ayurveda, which has been practiced in India for centuries, as a traditional system of healing and rejuvenation, is now known worldwide. Tourists come to Kerala from across the world to experience the benefits of ayurvedic massage therapy, which involves treating the body with oils made from medicinal herbs.

Cultural Centres of Kerala

One can get valuable insight into the multi hued culture of the land by visiting the various Cultural Centers of Kerala. The Cultural Centers of Kerala upholds the rich and varied cultural heritage of the land. The artistic and educational sessions in the different Cultural Centers of Kerala endeavor to familiarize the youngsters with the performing arts which are an integral part of the culture of Kerala.

Dedicated teachers of the Cultural Centers of Kerala are very keen on transferring their skills to the young artistes with immense potential. Other than promoting the various art forms through workshops, gatherings, festivals, the most noteworthy contribution of the Cultural Centers of Kerala is their persistent effort to revive certain traditional art forms which were on the verge of decline

Fairs and Festivals in Kerala

The God's Own Country, Kerala is the ultimate land of fairs and festivals. A tour during the time of fairs and festivals is the best way to experience a destination with rich cultural heritage.

One of the most popular festivals in Kerala is of course the snake boat race. Apart from that there are several temple festivals that are held in different parts of Kerala. Like anywhere else in India, myths and legends have a lot to do in the origin and development of the fairs and festivals in Kerala.Traditionally, the elephants play an important role in the life and culture of Kerala. The same is best manifested during the fairs and festivals in Kerala. Ornately decorated elephants in front of the temples offer a spectacle to behold. Fairs and festivals in Kerala also give the best opportunity to display the traditional performing arts and delicious cuisine of the land.

Some of the Festivals and Fairs include:

Guruvayur Festival

Aarattu

Arattupuzha Pooram

Attukal Pongala

Chettikulangara Bharani

Cochin Carnival

Edathua Perunnal

Aanayoottu Thrissur

Kodungalloor Bharani

Aanachamayam

Arthunkal Perunnal

Chinakkathoor Pooram

Easter

Machattu Mamangam

Malayattoor Perunnal

Muharram

Koratty Muthys Feast

Aaranmula Boat Race

Nehru Trophy Boat Race

Onam Festival

Parumala Perunnal

Pooram Festival

Sabarimala Festival

Thrissur Pooram

Uthralikavu Pooram

Vishu Festival

Pulikali

Oachirakkali

Hill Stations in Kerala

Though shadowed by the fabled beauty of the beaches and backwaters, the hill stations in Kerala on the Western Ghats are the repository of a different kind of wealth displayed in oblivion and irrespective of human interest.

The Hill Stations in Kerala :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.

  • Idukki Tours- set high among the secluded reserve forests on the Western Ghats, Idukki hydroelectric projects satisfy about 66 % of the state's power needs. Ornamented with meandering streams, orchids and trekking rails, Idukki is waiting for you.
  • Munnar Tours - once popular as a summer resort among the British, Munnar is set at a misty 6000 ft in the Idukki district. Satiated with the aroma of exotic spices, Munnar has amazing greenery on display, ready to take your breath away.
  • Devikulam Tours - nestled among rubber plantations 16 km south west of Munnar, Devikulam derived its name from the legend that the goddess Sita from Ramayana came down to frolic with her husband Rama in the lake here. Abundant green slopes extending up to the horizon make this place irresistible.
  • Ponmudi Tours - 61 km from Thiruvanthapuram Ponmudi is a haven of nature's bounty. The lush low hills and emerald streams at Ponmudi make a joyride of a holiday.

Wildlife in Kerala

Topped up with indigenous traditional cultural practices and art forms, Kerala is increasingly gaining momentum as a popular tourist destination all over the world. Showered with an eternal sunshine, Kerala- God's own country is a nature lovers' paradise. The lush tropical evergreen rain forests still largely miraculously unspoiled in Kerala, support a rich array of land, marine and avian wildlife.

 

Wildlife Tours to Kerala

The evergreen rain forests of Kerala are home to a large number of large and small sports. Internationally popular among wildlife enthusiasts and photographers much of the forest lands in Kerala have been turned into reserve forests and wildlife sanctuaries for the conservation of the wildlife in these areas. These sanctuaries and national parks are thronged by elephants, tigers, leopards, jaguars, deer, monkeys, Malabar squirrels, hornbills, kingfishers and many more which make them excellent wildlife vacation sites.

Wildlife Destinations in Kerala

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located at the Devikulam taluk of the Idukki district, Chinnar received the status of a sanctuary in 1984. Stretching over an area of 90 sq. km Chinnar is home to the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel. Owing to its position on the rain shadow slopes of the Western Ghats, Chinnar just about 48 days of rain during the Northeast monsoon in October November.

Eravikulam National Park

Close to Chinnar in the Idukki district, Eravikulam became a national park in 1978. Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr , a mountain goat, Eravikulam is spread over 97 sq. km area. Heavy rains fall here during monsoon making the surrounding misty hills a feast for the eyes.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Located around the Vembanad Lake near the Backwaters, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a bird watcher's paradise. Migratory birds from as far as Siberia and also the Himalayas flock here. The Siberian stork, teal, egret, heron and darter are commonly seen.

Periyar National Park

Situated at Thekkady along the Periyar Lake and river, it is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India. Boat cruises on the lake provide exciting game watching opportunity making Periyar a must see on the wildlife map of Kerala.

Silent Valley National Park

In the Palakkad district of Kerala, Silent Valley is perhaps the last stretch on genuinely unspoiled rain forest. A prized site for environmental research and conservation, it forms the core area of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Silent valley made its way to the headlines over the construction of a dam on Kunti River, threatening to disturb the biodiversity of the region. It was declared a national park in 1980.

Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar National Park

Shendurni Wildlife Sanctuary

Eravikulam National Park

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary

Silent Valley National Park

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Spice Plantations in Kerala

The aromatic spice plantations in Kerala are a must see

while on a tour to Kerala.

 
 Various Spice Plantations in Kerala:
 
There are various kinds of spices cultivated in Kerala. 
Some of the spices that Kerala is famous for and which 
you can see in the spice plantations of Kerala are 
pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, and nutmeg. 
The spice plantations in Kerala are captivating farms to 
wander in, since different spices are cultivated in 
different sections of each plantation. While exploring 
the Kerala spice plantations, you can go for nature walks, 
bird watching treks, taste the various spices and breathe 
in the fragrant air.
 
 
Some spice plantations in Kerala offer tourists 
accommodation in the lodges and mansions on the plantation. 
Following are the major spice plantations in Kerala that are 
worth a visit - 
 
Spice Plantation in Thekkady
Spice Plantation in Wayanad
Spice Plantation in Munnar

Ayurveda in Kerala

 

The south Indian state of Kerala ranks as one of the world's most renowned destinations for authentic Ayurvedic treatments. Thousands of tourists flock to Kerala every year solely to avail of Ayurveda treatments for ailments such as arthritis, paralysis, obesity, sinusitis, migraine, premature ageing, skin ailments etc.

The immense popularity of Ayurveda in Kerala can be attributed to the equable climate of the state, its natural abundance of forests - which are storehouses of rich herbs and natural oils - and the cool monsoons (June - November) that Kerala experiences, which are all ideally suited for this ancient system of medicine.

The practice of Ayurveda in Kerala stresses on the prevention of body ailments in addition to curing them. A purely naturalistic system which depends on the diagnosis of the three humors of the body - vata, pitta and kapha - to achieve the right balance of health, Ayurveda is held as a unique and indispensable branch of medicine. This simple science believes in the treatment of the individual as a whole, and not just of the affected part.

According to traditional texts monsoon is the best season to indulge in rejuvenation therapies of Ayurveda in Kerala. The atmosphere remains dust-free and cool during this time, opening up the pores of the body to the maximum, thereby making it most receptive to herbal oils and massages.

There are innumerable Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala which offer health and fitness programs based on Ayurvedic oil massages and therapies. These massages rejuvenate the whole body system and cure various ailments besides enabling general fitness. Some of the famous Ayurveda treatments offered in these centers include Panchakarma, Sweat Treatments, Oil Massage, Purwakarma, Samana, Yoga & Meditation.

 

Cuisine of Kerala

Kerala is also famous for its distinctive cuisine, which is uniquely different from the cuisines in other parts of India. The Cuisine of Kerala is mildly flavored and gently cooked, and characterized by the use of coconut. Kerala cuisine encompasses an interesting combination of vegetables, meats and seafood flavored with a variety of spices, and cooked mostly in coconut milk. The juice of the tender coconut is a favorite drink in every part of Kerala.

The local cuisine of Kerala is widely favored for being hot and spicy and provides a gastronomical delight for tourists who are willing to experiment. Hence, do make it a point to savor the delectable cuisine of Kerala while on tour to ‘God's Own Country'.

Kerala being a coastal state, the land is extensively covered with green paddy fields and grows an abundance of spices. Bananas and coconuts are available all through the year and form an integral part of the cuisine of Kerala. The main spices used in the various Kerala dishes include cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, green and red peppers, cloves, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander, turmeric, etc.

Hindus in Kerala specialize in the preparation of vegetarian cuisine; while the Muslims and Christians excel in an eclectic array of non-vegetarian food preparations like `pathiri' and ‘kozhi curry' (chicken), ‘biriyani' and fish recipes. Some popular vegetarian items of the cuisine of Kerala are ‘rasam', ‘olan', ‘kalan', ‘pachadi', ‘kichadi', ‘avial', ‘thoran', etc.

Rice is the staple diet of the people of Kerala. A typical Kerala breakfast may comprise specialties made from ground rice and pulses that have been steamed or fried in various ways. A popular breakfast item is "Puttu" - a dish of steamed rice powder garnished with coconut and eaten generally with stew, curry, or bananas. Some popular South Indian specialties like ‘dosas', ‘idlis', ‘sambhar' and ‘uttapam' also form part of the breakfast cuisine of Kerala.

The main course for lunch and dinner in Kerala may consist of rice, ‘dal' - a gravy made of pulses, various seasonal vegetables cooked with coconut and flavored with spices, a seafood curry, and a sweet a desert such as "payasam", to end the meal. ‘Payasam' is cooked with milk, coconut extract, sugar, cashews, dry grapes, etc.

Kerala cuisine is also famous for its traditional ‘sadhyas' - a vegetarian meal comprising of boiled rice and a number of side-dishes. The cuisine also boasts of a variety of pickles and chutneys, and crunchy ‘pappadums', banana chips, jackfruit chips, etc.

Seafood is very popular in Kerala and is served with almost every meal. Mussels are an all time favorite in seafood cuisine of Kerala. Other sea animals consumed include sardines, mackerel, tuna, rays and shark, crabs, and oysters.

The northern parts of Kerala specialize in Malabar Cuisine and the most famous dish of this region is the ‘Malabar Biryanis' - a rich rice preparation, cooked with meat, onions, chilies and other spices.

The Syrian Christians, who live in large numbers in districts like Kottayam and Pala, excel in a unique style of cooking.

Houseboats in Kerala

Kettuvallam, the traditional name of the houseboat, is a boat made by tying together pieces of wood. Kettuvallam is made without using a single nail. Jack wood planks are joined together with coir rope and then coated with black resin made from boiled cashew nut shells. Now-a-days, these giant 80-foot long crafts are transformed into luxuriously furnished houseboats accommodations with an open lounge, one or two bath attached bedrooms and a kitchenette, and are extremely eco friendly, merging smoothly into the panorama. A Kettuvallam usually has one or two bath attached rooms, an open lounge, deck, kitchenette and a crew comprising two oarsmen and a cook. Lights are given the shape of traditional lanterns.

Facilities:

  • Beautifully furnished living room.

  • VCD, TV and music system

  • Chef with option of continental, Chinese or Indian delicacies.

  • AC and Non-AC Houseboats versions come with an attached bathroom.

  • Kitchen equipped with an array of gadgets and a variety of ingredients.

  • Spacious bathroom, running water, all throughout the trip. Sparkling clean fittings and tiles. And an eco-friendly method of waste disposal.

  • Luxurious twin beds, a table and chair, storage space, and even a mosquito net, are at your disposal.

The houseboat cruise in Kerala is a great luxury in water encompassing you the real water fun in India. A wide selection of beautiful routes is available for the cruises and you can choose one that suits your budget and time frame. Each route is comprehensive, serene and enjoyable in itself, extending to you a complete experience of Kerala the unique water land of India.

Kerala Backwaters

Kerala backwaters take you to an exotic world showcasing mesmerizing natural attractions. Spending days in Kerala is rejuvenating to say the least, especially at the backwater destinations, connected through meandering inland lakes. You can experience unforgettable Backwater tours in Kerala at the following places -

Alappuzha Backwaters

The backwaters at Alappuzha or Alleppey with water birds, flowers and greenery along their banks are a stunning sight. A backwater cruise on the Punnamada Kayal takes you along canals covered with mauve hyacinths past scenic islands offering sublime views of coconut and paddy fields, Chinese fishing nets and toddy tappers at work.

Kochi Backwaters

A string of picturesque and lovely islands, lagoons, small rivulets and swaying coconut palm trees make Kochi a perfect backwaters destination. A conducted cruise on the local ferries through the winding waterways to several quaint spots is the main tourist attraction of Kochi.

Kollam Backwaters

The Ashthamudi Lake, covering 30% of the Kollam town, is the gateway to the magnificent backwaters of Kerala. The eight hour trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest backwater cruise in the state as one passes through lakes, canals, water-bound villages, and the famous Chinese fishing nets.

Kasargod Backwaters

The backwater destination of Kassarkod offers mesmerizing trips to the enchanting Chandragiri and the vivacious Valiyaparamba . Situated on the Chandragiri River the former is renowned for the chain of forts. The latter provides the best breathtaking views of the backwaters.

Kottayam Backwaters

Kottayam is being known for a large number of canals, streams, and lakes going through it. The famous Vembanad Lake makes Kottayam Backwaters a famous tourist destination, drawing attention of several tourists year after year.

Kozhikode Backwaters

Be at the Kozhikode backwaters to explore the un-spoilt greens, to hear the chirping of the water birds, and take a boat cruise to discover a spectacular water world. You can sail along the Kallai River and Canoli canal or languor on the Kozhikode beaches.

Kumarakom Backwaters

The enchanting boat races, houseboat cruise, canoeing and fishing are some of the main attractions of Kumarakom. The huge houseboats, traditionally known as Kettuvallams, are replete with living rooms, toilets, kitchen, and balcony for angling.

Thiruvallam Backwaters

This tranquil backwater stretch, en-route to Kovalam, is renowned for its canoe rides. You can float along on a houseboat past local fishing villages viewing water birds, exotic flowers and vegetation.

Kerala Beaches

 

The Kerala beaches on the crystal waters of the Arabian Sea are little pieces of heaven on earth.

Beaches in Kerala :The palm and coconut dotted tranquil Kerala beaches range from gold to silver to gravel. A day under the Keralian sun on a beach with coconut water and ayurvedic massage to pamper you is a natural stress reliever. If it is an exotic honeymoon or just a break from your hectic schedule that you are looking forward to, head straight for any of the beaches in Kerala.

Alappuzha Beach- Alappuzha, formerly known as Alleppy, is famous for its 140 years old pier on the beach. A popular destination, Alappuzha is 85 km from the Kochi Airport and 5 km from the Alappuzha station. Kuttanad, also known as the 'Rice Bowl of India', is famous for its below sea level rice cultivation, is quite close by.

Kovalam Beach- this silver beach is now the most popular and among the first beaches to be discovered as a tourist destination in Kerala. The beach is dotted with coconut trees which makes its nomenclature appropriate as Kovalam means a coconut grove. Regular bus services from Thiruvanthapuram to Kovalam are available. Popular for water sports and ayurvedic therapies, Kovalam is truly worth its popularity.

Varkala Beach- gaining momentum as a popular beach resort, Varkala is also famous for its 2000 year old Janardana Swamy temple which makes it a holy place for the local people. Varkala is 54 km from Thiruvanthapuram and 37 km from Kollam.

Beaches of Kerala

Varkala Beach

Bekal Beach

Dharmadam Island Beach

Fort Kochi Beach

Kappad Beach

Somatheeram Beach

Beypore Beach

Cherai Beach

Kappil Beach

Kovalam Beach

Tanur Beach

Thirumullavaram Beach

 

Dances of Kerala

The Dances of Kerala are vibrant and wonderfully expressive, and they add hues of happiness, gaiety, enthusiasm and life to this enchanting land, which is an eclectic blend of pristine natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Local legends, traditional stories, age-old customs, cultural beliefs and mythological stories are depicted through the brilliant dances of Kerala. Folk Dance, Tribal Dance, Classical Dance, Neo-Classical Dance or Modern dance, Kerala is a treasure trove of all kinds of dance forms. Blessed with a rich history of art and culture, Kerala is renowned all over the world for its enchanting performing arts which were highly patronized by the ancient rulers.

Some of the popular classical dances of Kerala include Koothu, Kathakali, Mohiniattom, Patokom, etc. The most famous dance form in Kerala is the internationally acclaimed 300-year-old classical form of Kathakali, which combines aspects of ballet, opera, masque and pantomime. Kathakali depicts events and excerpts from great Indian epics and ‘puranas', presented by dancers decked in huge skirts and headdress, and wearing a unique style of makeup. The richness of this enchanting fusion of tradition, color, music, expression and drama is one of a kind and unmatched in any other dances of Kerala.

Kerala has a rich variety of folk dances. Prominent among these are Kaliyattom, Kolam Thullal, Kolkali, Velakali and Kaikottikali. These dances are performed in accompaniment of songs and drums, and often in colorful oriental costumes.

Shopping in Kerala

Kerala is blessed with picturesque locales and a heritage that is still proudly preserved in the hearts of all the people of Kerala. Shopping in Kerala is a treat for almost all the travelers on a holiday in Kerala. With a variety of products that range from artistic handicrafts to the most colorful saris possible, Kerala is truly a shopper's paradise.

Shopping in Kerala

Kerala has a whole range of products which can be considered to be the specialty products of Kerala. These are led by the handlooms of Kerala, which have been made famous the entire world by the Kasavu materials. A must-buy if you are planning a trip of shopping in Kerala, these saris are the perfect combinations of simplicity and elegance and are recognized by their golden borders, which are made by dipping the material in a 22 karat gold solution.

Handicrafts in Kerala

  • Coconut Shell Craft 
  • Metal Inlaid Wood Craft 
  • Coir Products 
  • Horn Carving 
  • Woodcarving 
  • Bamboo Mat Paintings 
  • Metal ware 
  • Kathakali masks 
  • Tea and coffee 
  • Spices like: Black Pepper, Cardamom, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Ginger etc 
  • Koftgari works 
  • Wood Carving 
  • Marquetry in wood 
  • Ivory and Buffalo horn Carving 
  • Screw Pine mat Making 
  • Bamboo Reed Weaving 
  • Palmyra Leaf Weaving 
  • Kora Grass Mat Making 
  • Rattan or Cane work 
  • Embroidery and Lace Making 
  • Lapidary work 
  • Granite carving 
  • Coconut shell carving 
  • Lacquer work 
  • Cotton map making 
  • Toys and Dolls 
  • Jewelry 
  • Coir Products 
  • Musical instruments manufacturing 

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