Let’s take a trip together to the mesmerizing state of Kerala in India.
The scent of spices is the first thing that greets you as we step off the plane. We’ve arrived in Kerala, lovingly referred to as “God’s Own Country”. A pleasant breeze brings with it the freshness of the monsoon rains. Can you feel it? This is the monsoon season, which spans from June to September. It’s warm, but the rain makes the temperature bearable.
Let’s visit the Munnar hill station first. You can see the emerald-green tea plantations stretch for miles, and the misty hills make a picture-perfect backdrop. You can almost taste the fresh air, laced with the fragrance of tea leaves. It’s early morning, the fog is gradually lifting, and the chirping birds add a symphony to the serenity.
Oh, look there! It’s an announcement for a Kathakali performance tonight in the Kochi cultural center. Kathakali is a traditional Indian dance-drama, and a spectacle not to be missed. The vivid makeup, colorful costumes, and captivating music make it an unforgettable experience.
Now, let’s move to the backwaters in Alleppey. The swaying palms on the sides of the tranquil canals paint a picture of absolute tranquility. The sound of water softly lapping against the houseboat we’re on, creates a rhythm to which Kerala seems to live and breathe.
Finally, don’t miss the chance to taste the local cuisine. Kerala is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes. Look, a local food festival is taking place near the Fort Kochi beach. The smell of coconut, curry leaves, and fresh seafood is tempting, isn’t it?
Are you ready for this adventure? Because Kerala is waiting to unfold its treasures for you.
The history of Kerala is as captivating as its breathtaking landscapes. Kerala’s story begins from as far back as 5000 BC, with evidence of its trade links with the ancient civilizations of Sumer and Egypt.
The legendary King Mahabali, known for his justice and benevolence, is said to have ruled this land around the 5th century BC. Onam, Kerala’s most celebrated festival, honors his reign and the mythical return of King Mahabali every year.
This land has been touched by many religions. Christianity arrived here around 52 AD, brought by St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. We’re now in the ancient port city of Muziris, the heart of the spice route, which saw Jewish settlers as early as the 1st century AD. The Jewish Synagogue in Kochi stands testament to this rich Jewish heritage.
Kerala has also been influenced by its interactions with Arab traders. Islam is believed to have arrived here in the 7th century AD, even before it spread to many parts of the world.
In the 15th century, Kerala encountered European powers. Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, landed on the shores of Kappad in 1498, marking the beginning of a new era.
The echoes of the freedom struggle against British rule reverberate through the walls of the Palakkad Fort, built by Hyder Ali of Mysore in 1766. It’s amazing how each structure here is a storyteller of the past.
The state we see today, with its vibrant culture and thriving traditions, is the result of these rich historical influences and interactions over the millennia. And now, we’re a part of this history too, continuing the story of Kerala.
Some quick facts about the charming state of Kerala:
Capital: Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city of Kerala, known for its British colonial architecture and many art galleries.
Language: The official and widely spoken language here is Malayalam. However, you’ll find that English is well understood, especially in the cities.
Population: As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Kerala had a population of around 35 million people.
Literacy Rate: Kerala is renowned for its high literacy rate, which is the highest in India. As of 2021, it stood at around 96.2%.
Geography: Kerala is a tropical paradise located on the southwestern Malabar Coast of India. It’s spread over 38,863 square kilometers and is bordered by Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and the Arabian Sea.
Flora and Fauna: Kerala is home to diverse wildlife and rich biodiversity. It has numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including Periyar National Park and Silent Valley National Park.
Cuisine: Kerala’s cuisine is famous for its aromatic and spicy dishes. Coconut, rice, and seafood form an integral part of the local food here.
Religion: Kerala is a secular state with major religions being Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.
Festivals: Kerala is famous for its vibrant and colorful festivals such as Onam, Vishu, and Thrissur Pooram.
Tourism: Kerala is one of the top tourist destinations in India, attracting tourists with its beautiful backwaters, hill stations, beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Unique Feature: Kerala is known for its backwaters, a network of interconnected canals, rivers, and lakes. The houseboat ride in these backwaters is a signature Kerala experience.
Art Forms: Kerala is known for its traditional art forms such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Theyyam, and Koodiyattam.
Feel the essence of these facts as you traverse through the state, immersing your selves in its rich culture, tradition, and breathtaking landscapes.
The magic of Kerala can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking for.
If you love a tropical climate and don’t mind a bit of rain, you should visit during the monsoon season, which is from June to September. The rain brings out the lushness of the landscape, the hills are covered in a cloak of mist, and the backwaters are at their fullest. It’s also the perfect time for Ayurvedic treatments, as the cool weather opens up the pores and makes the body more receptive to the herbal oils and therapies.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking sunshine and cool breezes, then the months from October to February are ideal. The weather is pleasantly cool, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the state’s diverse attractions. This is also the time when most festivals like Onam and Christmas occur, so you’ll get to witness Kerala’s cultural richness firsthand.
March to May are the summer months in Kerala, with temperatures rising up to 35 degrees Celsius. While this season is generally avoided by tourists due to the heat, it could be a good time to visit if you’re interested in exploring the hill stations like Munnar and Thekkady, where the weather stays relatively cooler.
No matter when you choose to visit, the verdant landscapes, the serene backwaters, the aroma of spices in the air, and the gentle lullaby of the Arabian Sea along the coastlines make Kerala a destination that feels like paradise any time of the year.
Reaching Kerala from different parts of the world or India is quite straightforward, given its excellent connectivity by air, rail, and road.
By Air: Kerala boasts four international airports – Trivandrum International Airport, Cochin International Airport, Calicut International Airport, and Kannur International Airport. These airports connect Kerala with major cities in India and the world. As we descend into the state, notice the lush greenery and the beautiful coastline that welcomes us.
By Rail: If you prefer a scenic journey, the Indian Railways network provides excellent connectivity to Kerala from different parts of India. Major railway stations include Thiruvananthapuram Central, Ernakulam Junction, and Kozhikode. The train ride offers picturesque views of the Western Ghats and the stunning landscapes of Kerala.
By Road: Kerala has a well-maintained network of national and state highways connecting it with various cities and towns in India. Self-drive or hiring taxis could be a great option to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.
By Sea: If you’re coming from Lakshadweep or other coastal areas, sea travel to Kochi is also possible, though services may be limited.
As we make our way into Kerala, whether by air, rail, or road, the journey unfolds the beauty of the state – the palm-fringed beaches, the tranquil backwaters, the lush hills, and the vibrant culture that reflects in every corner. Welcome to Kerala!
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