Nestled in the south-western coast of India, Kerala is a breathtakingly beautiful state that boasts of palm-lined beaches, serene backwaters, lush green landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Also known as "God's Own Country," Kerala is a destination that offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit for anyone who seeks to explore the beauty and culture of India.

KERALA: A STATE WITH VIBRANT SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS

With a population of over 33 million people, Kerala is one of the most developed states in India with a well-diversified economy, primarily driven by services, agriculture and industry. The state is also known for its strong human development indicators, including high literacy rates, healthcare standards and progressive social policies and initiatives.

KERALA CULTURE: A FUSION OF HISTORY, DIVERSITY AND RICHNESS

Kerala has a unique and vibrant culture that is influenced by its history, geography, and diverse ethnic groups. Here are some aspects of Kerala's culture that are worth exploring:

Dance and Music: Kerala has a rich tradition of dance and music, including classical forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam and Koodiyattam, as well as folk music and dance forms like Theyyam, Thiruvathira and Pulikali. These art forms are often performed during festivals and special occasions.

Festivals: Kerala is known for its colorful and vibrant festivals, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal. Some of the popular festivals include Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, and Attukal Pongala.

Cuisine: Kerala's cuisine is diverse and flavourful, with a focus on using fresh, local ingredients and spices. Some of the must-try dishes include Appam, Puttu, Dosa, Kerala sadya and seafood delicacies like Karimeen fry.

Costumes: Traditional attire in Kerala varies depending on the region and community, but some of the popular styles include Kerala saree and Set Mundu for women and Mundu with Jubba for men. The state is also known for its unique jewellery and ornaments, including the popular Kerala-style gold jewellery.

Religion: Kerala has a diverse religious landscape, with Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity being the major religions. The state is known for its secularism and communal harmony, with people of different faiths living and celebrating together.

KERALA: A SERENE AND SCENIC DESTINATION FOR EVERY TRAVELLER

Kerala is blessed with its natural beauty, serene backwaters, picturesque hill-stations and exotic wildlife. From leisurely houseboat rides to adventurous treks and hikes, the state offers a range of attractions that cater to different interests and preferences.

Some of the top tourist destinations in Kerala include:

Kochi: Also known as ’Queen of Arabian sea, Kochi is a vibrant port city known for its rich history, colonial architecture and beautiful coastal scenery. The major attractions in Kochi includes Fort kochi, Mattancheri, Hill palace museum, Bolgatty and Vypeen Islands.

Alleppey: Also known as Alappuzha, is a beautiful coastal town famous for its intricate network of backwaters, serene beaches, lush green paddy fields and house boat cruises making it a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Munnar: Munnar is a hill station located in the Western Ghats mountain range, known for its picturesque landscapes, lush green tea plantations, misty mountains and cool weather. Some of the top tourist attractions in Munnar include Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, Top Station and the Tea Museum.

Thekkady: Thekkady is a picturesque town nestled in the Idukki district of Kerala. The region is renowned for its biodiversity, wildlife, and spice plantations. The town is situated on the banks of the Periyar River, which flows through the dense forests of the Periyar National Park which is home to a variety of Flora and fauna.Adventure activities such as bamboo rafting, hiking, and camping are also popular in Thekkady.

Kovalam: Kovalam is a small coastal town located in the Trivandrum district of Kerala. Kovalam is known for its beautiful beaches; Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach (also known as Eve’s Beach) and Samudra Beach. Apart from beaches, Kovalam has other tourist attractions, such as the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, which displays a variety of marine life, and the Halcyon Castle, a beautiful palace built in the 1930s.

Wayanad: Wayanad is a scenic district located in the northern part of Kerala, known for its lush green forests, misty hills, and gushing waterfalls. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Wayanad include the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Pookode Lake and Banasura Sagar Dam. The district is also known for its tea and coffee plantations, spice gardens and traditional handicrafts.

Overall, Kerala offers a unique and authentic experience that highlights the state's natural beauty, unique customs, rich culture and warm hospitality making it every travellers dream destination. Whether it's a leisurely houseboat ride on the backwaters, a trek through the lush forests or an Ayurvedic massage in a tranquil resort, Kerala is a place where you can truly experience the essence of India and create memories that will last a lifetime.