About

Kerala is one of the most romantic, beautiful natural attractions of the world, Kerala also referred to in historical terms as Keralam, is a state in the south-west region of India on the Malabar coast. Kerala which is popularly called as "God’s own country", it is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Asia. kerala is a tropical state with green and lush vegetation and has a 550 km coastline on the Arabian Sea. Kerala is the most densely populated state in India with 38,863 sq km area with around 33 million population Kerala is also one of the most advanced societies and largest developed tourist destination in India. Kerala is an enchantingly beautiful, emerald green land, flanked by the Western Ghats on one side,  and strewn with rivers, beautiful beaches, backwaters, hill stations, festivals, wildlife, lagoons,  and rich vegetation With the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 m in the east and networked by 44 rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia.

An equable climate, A long shoreline with serene beaches, Tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush hill stations, and exotic wildlife, Waterfalls, Sprawling plantations and paddy fields, Ayurvedic health holidays, Enchanting art forms, Magical festivals, Historic and cultural monuments, An exotic cuisine, All of which offer you a unique experience make Kerala a must-see destination place in a lifetime. And what's more, each of these charming destinations is only a two-hour drive from the other - a singular advantage no other destination offers. Until the early 1980s, Kerala was a relatively unknown destination to other states of the country. In 1986 the government of Kerala declared tourism as an industry and it was the first state in India to do so. Marketing campaigns launched by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, the government agency that oversees tourism prospects of the state, resulted in the growth of the tourism industry. Many advertisements branded Kerala with a catchy tagline Kerala, God's Own Country. Today, Kerala Tourism is a global brand and regarded as one of the destinations with the highest recall. In 2006, Kerala attracted 8.5 million tourist arrivals, an increase of 23.68% over the previous year, making the state one of the fastest-growing destinations in the world. In 2011, tourist inflow to Kerala crossed the 10-million mark. Ayurvedic tourism became very popular since the 1990s, and private agencies like Kottakkal Arya Vydyasala played a notable role in tandem with the initiatives of the Tourism Department. Kerala is known for its ecotourism initiatives and in this segment, it promotes mountaineering, trekking and bird-watching programmes in the Western Ghats as the major products. As of 2005, the state's tourism industry was a major contributor to the state's economy, which is currently growing at a rate of 13.31%. The revenue from tourism increased fivefold between 2001 and 2011 and crossed the INR 190 billion mark in 2011. Moreover, the industry provides employment opportunity to approximately 1.2 million people.

Culture

Religion in Kerala

Religion in Kerala is a mixture of different faiths while visiting Kerala you may respect the culture and heritage of the state. In temples mosques and church you should keep footwear outside. Most of the temples allow non-Hindus too. Some temples follow some strict dress codes also. Out of the 33.9 Million People in Kerala, About 56% of Kerala population are Hindus, 24% Muslims and 19% Christians and the remaining 1 % constitute Jain, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jews. But people of Kerala live in religious harmony and not much bothered about their religious status.

History

Kerala is mentioned in many ancient Sanskrit works. The Aitareya Aranyaka is the earliest Sanskrit work, in which Kerala is mentioned. The Ramayana and Mahabharata, show indication of Kerala. Katyayana (4th century BC) and Pathanjali (2nd Century BC) show their acquaintance to Kerala. The Puranas also show the geography of Kerala. Kalidasa’s Raghuvamsa has given a beautiful description of Kerala. Kautilya’s Arthasastra also mentions Kerala. In ancient time, the population of Kerala was a combination of different groups of Dravidian. The ancient Dravidian kingdoms of South India (Chera, Chola, and Pandya), as well as their people, were held together by intimate bonds of blood, language, and literature and that was the force, which promoted a sort of cultural homogeneity in South India. The Aryan immigrants who settled in Kerala had themselves to undergo radical changes in their ways of life, habits, customs, and manners. This process of transformation paved the way for a desirable fusion of the two streams of culture; the Aryan and the Dravidian. Aryan systems of medicine, astrology, art, and architecture also were introduced. The Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas became the scripture. their ways of life, habits, customs, and manners. This process of transformation paved the way for a desirable fusion of the two streams of culture; this synthesis evolved Kerala culture as it is today. Kerala has a culture with certain distinct characteristics. Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity have contributed their significant share in enriching the cultural wealth of Kerala. The States Reorganisation Act of November 1, 1956, elevated Kerala to statehood.

Kerala is mentioned in many ancient Sanskrit works. The Aitareya Aranyaka is the earliest Sanskrit work, in which Kerala is mentioned. The Ramayana and Mahabharata, show indication of Kerala. Katyayana (4th century BC) and Pathanjali (2nd Century BC) show their acquaintance to Kerala. The Puranas also show the geography of Kerala. Kalidasa’s Raghuvamsa has given a beautiful description of Kerala. Kautilya’s Arthasastra also mentions Kerala. In ancient time, the population of Kerala was a combination of different groups of Dravidian. The ancient Dravidian kingdoms of South India (Chera, Chola, and Pandya), as well as their people, were held together by intimate bonds of blood, language, and literature and that was the force, which promoted a sort of cultural homogeneity in South India. The Aryan immigrants who settled in Kerala had themselves to undergo radical changes in their ways of life, habits, customs, and manners. This process of transformation paved the way for a desirable fusion of the two streams of culture; the Aryan and the Dravidian. Aryan systems of medicine, astrology, art, and architecture also were introduced. The Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas became the scripture. their ways of life, habits, customs, and manners. This process of transformation paved the way for a desirable fusion of the two streams of culture; this synthesis evolved Kerala culture as it is today. Kerala has a culture with certain distinct characteristics. Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity have contributed their significant share in enriching the cultural wealth of Kerala. The States Reorganisation Act of November 1, 1956, elevated Kerala to statehood.

Legends say that Kerala was created by Parshuram (a famous ancient sage). Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to India from Europe when he landed near Calicut in 1498 AD. In 1723, the East India Company signed a strategic treaty with King Marthanda Varma. For a few decades, Hyder Ali and his son -Tipu Sultan proved to be a thorn in the flesh of the British, sweeping down several times into Kerala. In 1947, it was the turn of the British to pack their bags.

Getting Around

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• By bus: KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) & KURTC (Kerala Urban Road Transport Corporation) are the lifeline of the state. They are present in every city, town, and village, and reach the most remote corners of the state. 
• By Train: Local trains are the most convenient and comfortable form of travel between districts of Kerala. They also afford beautiful views of the gorgeous landscapes of the state. 
• Taxis: Uber and Ola are available in big cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Calicut and are quickly spreading to lower-tier cities like Thrissur etc.
• Cruise: Kerala is a land of waterways and traveling its several backwaters, lakes, and rivers call for transit through ferry services. Motor boats are the most prolific form of transport in these regions. 

Rentals

Things to Pack/Carry

We would like to suggest you pack your baggage with the following items for your Kerala trip

• Umbrella: Carry an umbrella during your travel to Kerala as it will protect you from the Blazing sun and suddenly heavy rain.
• Torch: It is better to carry a torch if you are planning a trekking trip.
• Mosquito Repellent: Don’t forget to carry your mosquito repellent cream because when it rains it attracts a lot of mosquitoes.
• Shoes: It is better to carry a pair of Slippers along with Normal Shoes especially during Monsoon Seasons.
•  Clothing: It is better to have cotton and light clothes with yourself but if your itinerary includes hill stations or cold places like Munnar or Thekkady so we suggest you to pack woolen clothes.
• Dhoti: In some temples, pants are Not allowed, so it's better if you carry dothi, or one can rent near the temples. 
• Sunglasses: If you are in Kerala during summers, then you must carry your pair of wayfarers/aviators. Besides being a great fashion accessory, they will also protect your eyes from any harmful damage of the sun rays.
• Sunscreen: The harsh rays of the sun are known to be very harmful. In fact, they can even be deleterious and cause serious diseases like skin cancer. Sunscreens with SPF 30-70 not only protect you from tanning but also shield you from injurious sun rays.
• Power Bank: Having a portable charger is a great idea when you are exploring a new city as it will give you a longer duration of time to listen to music or make videos or surf the net hassle-free.
• Camera: Having a camera is a must as it will give you high-quality pictures and sweet reminiscences to take back home when you relive the memories of this city.
• Skin Care: Sunscreen is an absolute must, as is a good moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Chapped lips can be a huge problem, so a chapstick or lip balm is essential. It may also be a good idea to carry deodorant, as you’re likely to sweat a lot.
• voltage converter: the voltage standard here is 220 v, and if your appliances are 110v, you may need to also bring a converter.

Weather

Kerala is blessed with an equitable and mild climate throughout the year. It has a very long monsoon season and it starts from June and continues till November. However, sudden rains can be expected at all times and in every season. Winter is not very strong in Kerala due to its topography and closeness to sea and there will only be a slight drop in temperature which is usually more in the month of December. Summer starts around February and will continue till May. Tourists must know that Kerala has very humid weather and during April and May the heat might be unbearable for some people. However, on a whole the weather is usually the same and travelling will not be hindered by the climate of Kerala.

Kerala is blessed with an equitable and mild climate throughout the year. It has a very long monsoon season and it starts from June and continues till November. However, sudden rains can be expected at all times and in every season. Winter is not very strong in Kerala due to its topography and closeness to sea and there will only be a slight drop in temperature which is usually more in the month of December. Summer starts around February and will continue till May. Tourists must know that Kerala has very humid weather and during April and May the heat might be unbearable for some people. However, on a whole the weather is usually the same and travelling will not be hindered by the climate of Kerala.

Cuisine

Kerala the 'land of spices' famous in a variety of tasty and yummy dishes which is healthy and rich in proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. Kerala Cuisine is very famous all over the world for its taste and spice. Even though the food is very tasty, it is very spicy as well. But still, the people of Kerala and the tourists to Kerala love the Kerala Cuisine.  Kerala cuisine offers a multitude of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes prepared using fish, chicken and red meat with rice as a standard accompaniment.

Kerala the 'land of spices' famous in a variety of tasty and yummy dishes which is healthy and rich in proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. Kerala Cuisine is very famous all over the world for its taste and spice. Even though the food is very tasty, it is very spicy as well. But still, the people of Kerala and the tourists to Kerala love the Kerala Cuisine.  Kerala cuisine offers a multitude of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes prepared using fish, chicken and red meat with rice as a standard accompaniment.

Kerala is referred to as the "Land of Spices" because it traded spices with Europe as well as with many ancient civilizations. In addition to historic variety, cultural impacts, especially the big percentages of Muslims and Christians, have additionally contributed specific dishes and patterns to Kerala cuisine, mainly non-vegetarian dishes. The meat consuming habits of the human beings have been historically restrained by way of non-secular taboos. Brahmins avoid non-vegetarian items. However, most modern-day Hindus do no longer study any dietary taboos, besides some of these belonging to top castes who do no longer eat pork or beef. Most Muslims do now not eat beef and different items forbidden by means of Islamic law. Traditional Kerala meals are vegetarian and include Kerala Sadya, that's an elaborate banquet prepared for Gala's and ceremonies but modern-day Kerala food additionally includes non-vegetarian dishes. A full-path Sadya, which consists of rice with approximately twenty distinctive accompaniments and desserts is the ceremonial meal of Kerala eaten typically on celebratory events along with marriages, Onam and Vishu. It is served on a plantain leaf. 

The much preferred and the most famous Kerala Dishes include the Kerala special fish curry, Puttu, and Kadala curry, Appam with stew, Idiyappam and egg curry, palada payasam which is a dessert, nadan kozhi curry and nadan kozhi varuthathu, banana fritters and many more. Curry leaves, chillies, mustard, tamarind and asafoetida are commonly added in the spicy Kerala dishes.

Some of the dishes that one would not afford missing in Kerala are

• Idly  Sambar and Chutney: This combination is not only delicious with a spicy flavor but also healthy as Idly is a steam-cooked dish which’s easy for digestion. The combination of Sambar and chutney provide nutrition with taste.
•  Masala Dosa: Many may object it originally not belongs to Kerala, but of Tamil Nadu. But, it’s also to be considered as Kerala Dish which is admired high internationally.
  
• Tapioca: regarded regionally as Kappa, is a staple food for Malayalees. It is as tasty as it's far healthful, and a number of overseas tourists choose to bask in Kappa, in particular at some stage in their hohouseboatrips. Though numerous kappa preparations are available, you may experience the mashed kappa the most. Mashed kappa paired with Kerala fish curry is a mouthwatering dish which you ought to try.
• Kallumakaya: Though Kallummakaya or mussels isn't very common in other components of Kerala, almost all Keralites have loved this auspicious dish. Roasted kallummakaya with rice filling is the tastiest training of all of them. It is a traditional Thalassery dish, that's unavoidable at parties and special features.
• Biriyani: Biriyani is an all-time favorite meal in India. But the biriyani coaching differs from place to area, and as a result of the call additionally, changes consistent with the area and the elements utilized in it. Biriyani is mostly a combination of rice, spices, meat or vegetables.
  
• Avial: Among the several curries in sadya, one wonderful curry is avial. It is certainly a wealthy preparation with lots of veggies and coconut. The vegetables are sliced into thin pieces and cooked to a crunchy consistency with lightly beaten curd, garlic, coconut grinding and coconut oil.
• Banana fry: It is a candy snack with a crispy outer cowl and a smooth inner portion. Ripe banana and wheat flour are used for the education of this tasty snack.
  
•  Pearl spot: Karimeen Pollichathu is a true Kerala cuisine which draws numerous vacationers outside and inside the kingdom. This dish is most not unusual in Alleppey specifically in houseboats. Karimeen is typical to be had in Kerala again waters. To prepare this dish, the fish is wrapped in a banana leaf for marination. It is then grilled afterward and served with the same banana wrapping. The wrapping adds to the aroma and taste.
• Palada: Palada is a sweet dish which is generally served after lunch, specifically after a sadya. Milk, sugar and rice ada are utilized in a selected share to cook dinner this purple payasam. Traditionally it's far served on a banana leaf.
• Cool drinks: like karikkin juice, sambaram are made from natural products like coconut and curd, which is healthy.
  

Best time to Visit

The best time to visit Kerala would depend on what sort of weather conditions the tourist would like to experience. Since the climate is equitable at all times, there is not “bad time” to visit Kerala. So, if you are interested in experiencing monsoon, Kerala is a must visit during June- November. The land is green and beautiful. Of course, no one can deny the joy of dancing around in the rejuvenating rain. But, if you are more interested in visiting the tourist attractions or beaches, then it is better if you plan your trip in any other time except the monsoons. All the hill stations will be lush green throughout the year so one needn’t worry about that. If it is a beach trip that you are planning, try not going during the monsoons as the tides can be dangerous. The best time to visit Kerala would be from September to May.

The best time to visit Kerala would depend on what sort of weather conditions the tourist would like to experience. Since the climate is equitable at all times, there is not “bad time” to visit Kerala. So, if you are interested in experiencing monsoon, Kerala is a must visit during June- November. The land is green and beautiful. Of course, no one can deny the joy of dancing around in the rejuvenating rain. But, if you are more interested in visiting the tourist attractions or beaches, then it is better if you plan your trip in any other time except the monsoons. All the hill stations will be lush green throughout the year so one needn’t worry about that. If it is a beach trip that you are planning, try not going during the monsoons as the tides can be dangerous. The best time to visit Kerala would be from September to May.

Tips

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• You are not allowed to touch/ take pictures of idols in temples of Kerala.
  
• Always use purified water. Drinking & eating from roadside vendors is not advisable. Avoid Cut fruits.
• Avoid wearing Provocative or Revealing clothes in Public Places during your trip to Kerala.
• Public display of affection is not recommended in Kerala and other parts of India.
• Roads are narrowing, but the journey is picturesque when you travel this stretch. Narrow roads are common in Kerala.
• Keep cash handy for small transactions, but debit and credit cards are accepted in most shops, hotels, and restaurants. don't carry too much hard cash.
  
•  if you are a foreigner and have converted to Hinduism, carry your conversion certificate, so that you can visit temples and go inside. Most temples in Kerala do not permit non-Hindus to enter. 
• The general rule when talking about clothes wear in Kerala is, dress modestly, and you are good. Keep the skirts below the knees, and ladies, capris are fine, but you’d do well to avoid shorts
  
• In some temples, pants are allowed, but women need to wear a long top, and men may be required to remove their shirts.
  
•  In beaches always listen to the lifeguard and tourist police.
• Smoking is banned in public places in Kerala by court order and you are liable to be prosecuted if you smoke in public.
• Liquor in Kerala is available from 5-star hotels and the shops of Kerala Beverages corporation only.
• Tickets to most sightseeing places are booked on first come first served basis and there are separate queues for foreigners in most sightseeing attractions in Kerala.
• ake medicines and few tablets for fever, cold, headache, vomiting etc.to make your excursion problem free.
• If you are a young, recently married couple, it would be wise to carry a copy of your marriage certificate, as some hotels here do not permit unmarried couples to occupy the same room. But many hotels have no objection
  
• Nudity is not allowed at any public places. It is strictly banned in all the beaches in India.
• For safety point of view try to bring minimum gold or precious jewelry’s.
• If you are planning to hit the wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala so Binoculars are most important to watch the wild animals nearby.