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Kerala

Kerala, popularly referred as “God own Country”, is a narrow strip of land situated in the southwestern part of India. The state lies between the Arabian Sea on the west and Western Ghats mountain range on the east. Covering about 38,863 Square Kilometers, it shares border with Karnataka to the north and northeast, Tamil Nadu to the east and south and the Laccadive Sea along  the west. Kerala consists of 14 districts, with Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) as its capital and largest city. 

The name Kerala is widely believed to originate from “Kera” (coconut) and “Alam” (land), meaning “Land of Coconuts.” Another theory connects it to the ancient Chera dynasty, with “Chera-alam” gradually becoming “Keralam”. The term “Keralaputra” found in Ashoka’s edicts (3rd century BCE) is one of the earliest references to the region.

Malayalam is the most widely spoken language and is also the official language of the state.

According to legend,  when Parashuram, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu threw his axe into the sea from Gokarnam (near present day Manglore), causing the water of the sea to recede and reveal the land that became Kerala.

Kerala’s history goes back to ancient times, with early sources mentioning the Chera kingdom, which ruled much of the region.  Its long coastline turned it into a major center for the spice trade, attracting Arabs, Romans, and Chinese traders. Islam reached the region through Arab merchants, and Christian tradition states that St. Thomas arrived here in the 1st century CE. Over the years, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British also established their presence, hoping to control the spice trade.

After India’s independence in 1947, Travancore and Cochin merged in 1949 to form the state of Travancore–Cochin. Later, under the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, the Malabar district, parts of Travancore–Cochin, and the Kasaragod region were brought together to form the modern state of Kerala.

The culture of Kerala is known for its simplicity, elegance, and deep-rooted traditions. The traditional dress of the state reflects this simplicity, where men commonly wear the mundu and women wear the graceful kasavu saree, both usually in white with golden borders symbolizing purity and heritage. Kerala is also rich in music and dance forms that highlight its artistic identity. Classical forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam showcase expressive movements and storytelling, while ritual dances such as Theyyam display vibrant costumes and strong spiritual elements. 

The cuisine of Kerala is another important part of its culture, marked by the use of coconut, spices, and fresh ingredients. Dishes like sadhya, appam with stew, and puttu with kadala curry, along with a variety of seafood, represent the state’s diverse food traditions. Banana is intrinsic to the culture of Kerala; consumed as food and medicine, used in rituals and ceremonies and offered to gods in prayer.

Kerala is also known for its art and crafts, including temple murals, coir products, wooden carvings, handloom textiles, and the beautifully crafted Nettur Petti jewel boxes. Fairs and festivals add color to the cultural life of the state. Celebrations such as Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, and various temple festivals bring communities together through rituals, music, dance, processions, and traditional games. These elements together make the culture of Kerala vibrant, unique, and deeply connected to its history and natural environment. Another well – esteemed Boat Race namely, Nehru Trophy Boat Race held every year in the month of August on the second Saturday, in the backwater towns of Alappuzha in the Punnamada Lake.  

Several symbols represent the state: Indian Elephant is the state animal, Great hornbill is the state bird, Golden shower tree is the state flower, Coconut Tree is the state tree, and Jackfruit is the state fruit. Kerala has also been recognized by National Geographic as “one of the world’s ten paradises” and listed among the “fifty places to visit at least once in a lifetime.”

Kerala tourism is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse travel experiences. Some of the best tourist places include the serene backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom, the misty hill stations of Munnar and Wayanad, the vibrant beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, and the wildlife-rich Periyar and Silent Valley national parks. Travellers can enjoy a variety of activities such as cruising in a traditional houseboat, watching Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances, exploring spice plantations, trekking through lush forests, rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies, and interactions with local communities. Together, these sights and activities make Kerala one of India’s most peaceful and enriching travel destinations.

TOUR PACKAGES OF KERALA

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