Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a picturesque state located in the southern part of India. Known for its lush greenery, serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Kerala offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Let me take you on a journey to experience Kerala in the best way possible.
This blog will serve as your ultimate guide to planning a memorable trip to Kerala, ensuring you can explore its enchanting landscapes and diverse attractions comfortably and without any hassle. Join me as we unravel the beauty of Kerala, where every moment is a celebration of nature’s splendor and cultural richness.
Location of Kerala
Kerala is situated on the Malabar Coast of southwestern India, bordered by Karnataka to the north and northeast, Tamil Nadu to the east, and the Arabian Sea to the west. Its strategic location along the coast has historically made it a hub for maritime trade and cultural exchange.
History of Kerala
Kerala has a rich historical legacy dating back to ancient times, with influences from the Chera dynasty, Portuguese explorers, Dutch traders, and British colonial rule. The state’s name is derived from “Kera,” which means coconut tree in Malayalam, highlighting its abundant natural resources and agrarian economy.
Why is Kerala Famous?
Kerala is renowned for its idyllic backwaters, exotic wildlife sanctuaries, Ayurvedic treatments, colorful festivals, and delicious cuisine. It is also known for its high literacy rate, social development indices, and sustainable tourism practices, making it a unique destination in India.
Famous Cities of Kerala
Kochi
Kochi is known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” Kochi is a bustling port city famous for its Chinese fishing nets, historic Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and vibrant spice markets.
Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city known for its colonial architecture, the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, and serene beaches like Kovalam and Varkala.
Alappuzha
Alappuzha is famous for its serene backwaters, houseboat cruises, and annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, offering a tranquil retreat amidst lush landscapes.
Famous Tourist Attractions of Kerala
Backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha)
A network of interconnected canals, lakes, and lagoons where you can experience a houseboat stay, witness local life, and enjoy scenic views of paddy fields.
Munnar
A hill station known for its tea plantations, misty mountains, Eravikulam National Park (home to the Nilgiri Tahr), and panoramic views from the Top Station.
Periyar National Park
A wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna, boat safaris on Periyar Lake, and the chance to spot elephants, tigers, and rare bird species.
Wayanad
Known for its picturesque landscapes, lush forests, trekking trails, waterfalls like Meenmutty and Soochipara, and Edakkal Caves with ancient petroglyphs.
Famous Food Items of Kerala
- Kerala Sadhya
A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf during festivals and celebrations, featuring a variety of dishes like sambar, avial, thoran, and payasam.
- Appam with Stew
Soft pancakes made from fermented rice batter served with a creamy coconut milk-based stew of vegetables, chicken, or lamb, a favorite breakfast dish.
- Malabar Parotta with Chicken Curry
Layered flatbread made from refined flour, flaky and soft, served with spicy and flavorful chicken curry, a popular dish in northern Kerala.
- Karimeen Pollichathu
Pearl spot fish marinated in a spicy masala, wrapped in banana leaf, and grilled or pan-fried to perfection, a signature seafood delicacy.
Famous Festivals and Cultures of Kerala
Kerala is known for its vibrant festivals that reflect its religious diversity and cultural heritage. The Onam Festival is celebrated with grandeur, featuring boat races, traditional dance (Kathakali), and elaborate feasts. Thrissur Pooram showcases extravagant elephant processions, fireworks, and percussion ensembles, while Vishu marks the Malayali New Year with rituals and festive meals.
Political Condition of Kerala
Kerala has a stable political environment with a democratic system of governance, emphasizing social welfare, education, healthcare, and sustainable development.
Budget To Travel Kerala
Traveling in Kerala caters to all budgets, with options ranging from budget-friendly homestays and local eateries to luxury resorts and Ayurvedic retreats. Budget travelers can manage with approximately INR 1,000 to INR 2,000 per day, while mid-range travelers may spend between INR 2,500 to INR 5,000 per day. Luxury accommodations and exclusive experiences can range upwards of INR 5,000 per day.
Area Covered by Kerala
Kerala covers an area of approximately 38,863 square kilometers, encompassing coastal plains, Western Ghats mountains, and backwater regions, offering diverse landscapes and experiences for travelers.
Travel Kerala
Traveling to Kerala is convenient with multiple transportation options available.
How to Reach Kerala
How to Reach Kerala By Air
Kerala has four international airports including Cochin International Airport, Trivandrum International Airport, Calicut International Airport, and Kannur International Airport, offering domestic and international flights.
How to Reach Kerala By Train
Kerala has a well-connected railway network with major railway stations in cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode, providing connectivity across India.
How to Reach Kerala By Road
Kerala is well-connected by national highways and state highways, facilitating road travel from neighboring states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. State-run buses and private vehicles offer convenient transportation options.
Connectivity
Kerala has excellent connectivity with the rest of India through its airports, railway stations, and road network.
Distance of Kerala from Major Cities
The distance from Kochi, a major city in Kerala, to Bangalore is approximately 550 kilometers by road, taking around 10-12 hours to drive and about 1 hour by air.
Connected States via Railway
Kerala is well-connected to neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu via its extensive railway network, providing convenient travel options for tourists.
Highways Passing Through Kerala
Several national highways pass through Kerala, including NH-66, NH-544, and NH-183, facilitating seamless road travel within the state and to neighboring regions.
| Highway Name | States it Crosses | Total Distance (km) |
| NH-66 | Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala | 1,622 km |
| NH-544 | Tamil Nadu, Kerala | 424 km |
| NH-183 | Kerala, Tamil Nadu | 57 km |
Best Time To Travel
The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March when the weather is pleasant with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for exploring beaches, backwaters, and hill stations.
Average Temperature in Kerala
Summer
Summers in Kerala, from March to May, are warm with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C in coastal areas and slightly cooler temperatures in hill stations. Light cotton clothing and sunscreen are recommended.
Monsoon
Monsoons, from June to August, bring heavy rainfall across Kerala, rejuvenating its lush landscapes and filling its rivers and backwaters. It is an ideal time for Ayurvedic treatments and experiencing traditional festivals like Onam.
Winter
Winters, from December to February, are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it suitable for sightseeing, wildlife safaris, and beach activities.
Concluding The Journey To Kerala
Kerala invites travelers to explore its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re cruising the backwaters of Alleppey, trekking through tea plantations in Munnar, or indulging in Ayurvedic treatments in Kovalam, Kerala promises a rejuvenating and unforgettable travel experience.
Plan your trip to Kerala and immerse yourself in its scenic landscapes, diverse traditions, and flavorsome cuisine. Discover why Kerala is truly “God’s Own Country,” where every visit unfolds a new chapter in the beauty of southern India.
FAQs About Traveling Kerala
When is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March for pleasant weather and cultural festivals.
Does Kerala have an airport?
Yes, Kerala has multiple international airports including Cochin, Trivandrum, Calicut, and Kannur, offering domestic and international flights.
What is Kerala famous for?
Kerala is famous for its backwaters, houseboat cruises, tea plantations, Ayurvedic treatments, Kathakali dance, and delicious cuisine like Kerala Sadhya and Malabar Parotta.
Is Kerala safe for women?
Kerala is considered safe for women travelers, but usual precautions should be followed, especially at night and in isolated areas.
Is Kerala safe for solo travelers?
Solo travelers can explore Kerala safely, especially in tourist areas and popular destinations like Kochi, Munnar, and Alleppey.
Is Kerala a good place to travel as a couple?
Yes, Kerala offers romantic experiences like houseboat stays, beach walks in Kovalam, and scenic hill stations perfect for couples.
What should I eat when in Kerala?
Try Kerala Sadhya, Appam with Stew, Karimeen Pollichathu, and Malabar Biriyani for a taste of authentic Kerala cuisine.
Which is the best place in Kerala?
Munnar, Alleppey (Alappuzha), and Wayanad are among the top-rated destinations in Kerala known for their natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Is Kerala safe at night?
Major cities and tourist areas like Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram are generally safe at night, but caution is advised in less populated areas.
Does it snow in Kerala?
No, Kerala does not experience snowfall except in very rare instances in high-altitude regions like the Western Ghats.
Which language is spoken in Kerala?
Malayalam is the official language of Kerala, widely spoken along with English in tourist areas.
Can I travel to Kerala with friends?
Yes, Kerala offers diverse attractions suitable for friends to explore together, from beaches and backwaters to wildlife sanctuaries and cultural festivals.
