The sun-kissed beaches, azure waters of the Arabian Sea, serene beaches, emerald backwaters, paddy fields, expansive plantations, boat races, exotic wildlife and Kalari, a martial art form falls short of describing the enchanting charm of Kerala. The origin of the state is steeped in legends of Darikan and Goddess Bhadrakali.
In recent times Kerala has evolved as one of the major tourist destinations in the Indian sub-continent. It is the only Indian state with a hundred percent literacy. It has world-class health care systems which accounts for the lowest infant mortality and highest life expectancy rates of this state. Peaceful and pristine, Kerala is also India`s cleanest state. Kerala is wedged between the Laccadive Sea and the Western Ghats. Lying between north latitudes 8°18` and 12°48` and east longitudes 74°52` and 72°22`, Kerala is well within the humid equatorial tropics.
Pilgrimage Tourism in Kerala
The tagline Kerela-God`s own country has been widely used in Kerala`s tourism promotions and soon became synonymous with the state. The never ending stretches of pea green backwaters, copious coconut palms and those gently sloping hills makes Kerala the perfect moment place for holidayers. Amidst these there are a number of ancient temples and shrines which ideally enhances the tourist quotient of the place.
Nature Tourism in Kerala
Situated on the lush and tropical Malabar Coast, Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Often referred to as one of the "ten paradises of the world", Kerala is especially known for its ecotourism initiatives. The curious blend of culture and demographics has made Kerela one of the most popular tourist destinations of the world. Growing at a rate of 13.31%, the state`s tourism industry is a major contributor to the economy of the state.
Laced with the blue lagoons and covered with the coconut palms in the coastal areas, nature is indeed at its best In Kerala. The paddy fields glisten with bright green of new shoots, the clear sky teamed with the sapphire luster of the sea makes Kerala a perfect place to rediscover nature.
Leisure Tourism in Kerala
Be it to enjoy the greens or to know the heritage or just to appreciate the surf as one waggles his toes at the white beaches, Kerala is indeed the place to enjoy the leisure time whilst at nature`s lap. Echo Point is located at a distance of 15 kilometers from Munnar. This place is perfect for trekking. The fresh air of the mountains and the panoramic view from the mountains will make this adventure sports more interesting. The beaches and the surf are perfect for indulging into water sports as well. Cruises through the backwaters of Kerala are also favorable way of exploring the nooks and corners of the state. Lakshwadeep is also a favorable destination for indulging in the adventure sports. Popular attractions in the state include the beaches at Kovalam, Cherai and Varkala; the hill stations of Nelliampathi, Ponmudi and Wayanad; and national parks and wildlife sanctuaries at Periyar and Eravikulam National Park.
Village Tourism in Kerala
Rural Kerala is a traditional land with beautiful old houses. Spirituality is an important aspect of its villages. It is a land of Hindu teacher, Adi Shankaracharya, born at Kaladi; Kathakali and the austere spiritual magnificence of temples, such as, Ettumanoor, Irinjalakuda and Trichur. Tradition is also reflected in the stark, white elegance of traditional Kerala dress. In traditional Kerala there is respect, appreciation and restraint, a deep understanding and reverence for the land which eventually supplies all needs. The travelers can also drop in at the Akkalum Tourist Village.
Visiting Information on Kerala
How To Reach Kerala
Air: The state has three major international airports at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode that link the state with the rest of the nation and the world.
Rail: The Indian Railway`s Southern Railway line runs throughout the state, connecting all major towns and cities except those in the highland districts of Idukki and Wayanad. Kerala`s major railway stations are Kasaragod, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur Junction, Palakkad Junction, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Junction, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Chengannur, Kollam Junction and Trivandrum Central..
Road: Kerala is also well connected with Indian cities like Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai. Private and government buses operate between Kerala and its neighboring states.
Water: The backwaters traversing the state are an important mode of inland navigation. National Waterway 3 traverses through the state.
As far as shopping is concerned, places like, Kochi and Trivandrum are popular for their handicrafts. Each craft is different from the other because of its traditional touch. The handicrafts may range from paintings to little souvenirs. Ceramic figures, Teapots, Chinese ceramics and antiques, brass caskets, silky grass mats and soft mats, tin candle stands, traditional mundus and others are popular buys at Kerala.
Accommodation units are scattered throughout Kerala. Hence the travelers will have no problems in finding the right kind of a hotel like Hotel Trident Cochin and Hotel Taj Malabar Cochin are within easy reach. Again hotels like Backwaters ripples Kumarakom will provide for the close vicinity of the backwaters. Kerala, a naturally gifted state in south India, is famous for its rich heritage, culture and purity.
The practice of Ayurveda has been an ancient reality for this state. Not only does Kerala have its own schools preaching this age old science, but it also provides practitioners with the potion that makes this science so effective Kerala`s own herbal massage oils. The warm, humid tropical climate in Kerala is conducive for the growth of certain herbs that possess immense healing potential when used with the right techniques in Ayurveda. This, too, serves as a major draw for the tourists.
Between the ancient creation myth and the modern political fact, Kerala has emerged as a land of lush, physical beauty, which contains a rich and unique storehouse of legend, romance, history, culture and tradition.
