Image Source: Saad Faruque

Located on the southwestern coast of India, Kerala is a state that blends tropical beauty, cultural richness, and Ayurvedic wellness. From serene backwaters and lush hill stations to palm-lined beaches and classical dance, Kerala offers a wide range of experiences. With its high literacy, eco-conscious living, and vibrant festivals, Kerala attracts both nature lovers and cultural explorers.

Geography of Kerala

Kerala, nestled along the southwestern edge of the Indian subcontinent, features a strikingly diverse and compact geographical profile that draws nature lovers, ecotourists, and cultural explorers alike. To the east lie the majestic Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, cloaked in mist-covered rainforests and rich in biodiversity. These mountains host evergreen forests, cardamom hills, and popular hill stations like Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady, known for tea gardens, spice plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries such as Periyar Tiger Reserve. Descending from the hills, the landscape transitions into the fertile midlands before flattening into the narrow Malabar Coast, where swaying coconut palms line golden beaches and traditional fishing villages maintain age-old maritime cultures. One of Kerala’s most iconic features is its labyrinthine network of backwaters, especially near Alappuzha (Alleppey), Kumarakom, and Kollam, where tranquil houseboat cruises glide past lush paddy fields and village hamlets. The state is nourished by over 40 west-flowing rivers, such as the Periyar, Pamba, and Bharathapuzha, which support irrigation, transport, and religious rituals. Scenic waterfalls like Athirapally, Meenmutty, and Soochipara cascade through verdant forest valleys, particularly during the monsoon season, which arrives in June and lasts till September. Kerala’s tropical climate, moderated by the Arabian Sea, brings warm humid summers, abundant rains, and pleasant winters between October and February. Altogether, the geography of Kerala is a harmonious blend of mountains, rivers, wetlands, forests, and coastal beauty, making it a haven for nature tourism, ayurvedic retreats, and sustainable travel experiences.

History

Kerala’s history is deeply rooted in its maritime legacy and its strategic position along the Malabar Coast, which made it one of the world’s earliest and most sought-after centers for the spice trade. As early as 3000 BCE, Kerala had established trade links with ancient civilizations including the Arabs, Phoenicians, and Romans, drawn by its exports of black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon. Over centuries, Kerala became a bustling crossroads for Arab traders, Chinese merchants, Portuguese navigators, Dutch colonists, and eventually the British East India Company, all of whom left distinct cultural and architectural imprints. The region was once ruled by powerful local dynasties like the Chera Kingdom, which flourished during the early Sangam period, followed by influential feudal states like the Travancore and Cochin (Kochi) kingdoms. These royal families were patrons of classical arts, temple architecture, and literature, and also played a role in resisting European colonization. The Portuguese, led by Vasco da Gama’s arrival in Calicut in 1498, were the first Europeans to establish a foothold, followed by the Dutch East India Company, and later the British, who dominated Kerala’s ports until Indian independence. Cities like Fort Kochi still preserve remnants of this layered past with colonial-era churches, Dutch palaces, synagogues, and European-style town planning. After independence, Kerala was formally established as a state in 1956 through the States Reorganisation Act, unifying various Malayalam-speaking regions from Travancore-Cochin and the Malabar District of Madras Presidency. Today, Kerala’s history stands as a rich fusion of indigenous heritage, maritime diplomacy, and colonial encounters, shaping its identity as a culturally vibrant and globally connected state.

Culture of Kerala

Kerala’s culture is an intricate tapestry woven from the threads of Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and indigenous tribal traditions, making it one of India’s most culturally pluralistic states. The region is renowned for its rich legacy of classical performing arts, such as the vibrant and theatrical Kathakali, the graceful and feminine Mohiniyattam, and the Sanskrit temple art form Koodiyattam, which is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. These traditional performances are not merely entertainment—they reflect mythological narratives, spiritual symbolism, and ritualistic expression. Equally significant is Kerala’s global reputation as the home of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic medicine. From herbal therapies to Panchakarma detox treatments, the state’s wellness tourism sector attracts visitors from around the world. Culturally, Kerala boasts a high level of literacy and has fostered a strong tradition of Malayalam literature, with legendary writers like Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai and M.T. Vasudevan Nair earning national recognition. The state also has a flourishing film industry, often celebrated for its socially conscious cinema and realistic storytelling that garners international acclaim. Deeply rooted in egalitarian values, Kerala emphasizes education, public healthcare, and gender inclusiveness, all of which contribute to its unique social development model often referred to as the “Kerala Model”. Whether in its Onam celebrations, church processions, or Sufi music gatherings, the state exemplifies how diverse communities coexist in harmony, each contributing to Kerala’s distinctive and inclusive cultural identity.

Fairs and Festivals of Kerala

Onam – Kerala’s Grandest Harvest Festival
Onam is the most iconic and widely celebrated festival in Kerala. Rooted in Hindu mythology, it marks the return of King Mahabali, whose reign is believed to have brought prosperity and equality. The ten-day festivities begin with Atham and culminate with Thiruvonam, featuring Pookkalam (floral carpet decorations), Pulikali (tiger dance), and the elaborate Onam Sadya—a vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. Thrilling Vallam Kali (snake boat races) take place in Alappuzha and Aranmula, drawing tourists from across the world. This harvest celebration is secular in spirit and brings together communities across religions and regions.

Vishu – Welcoming the Malayali New Year
Celebrated in mid-April, Vishu marks the beginning of the Malayali New Year. It is observed with the setting up of the Vishukkani, an auspicious arrangement of fruits, grains, flowers, and lamps that one sees first upon waking. Children enjoy bursting firecrackers, and elders give Vishukkaineetam—token money for blessings. The spirit of new beginnings and prosperity is at the core of Vishu, celebrated widely in central and northern Kerala.

Thrissur Pooram – The Festival of Festivals
Held at the Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur, this vibrant temple festival is famous for its procession of richly decorated elephants, chenda melam (traditional percussion orchestras), and massive fireworks displays. The event, attended by lakhs of devotees, showcases Kerala’s cultural grandeur and religious fervor. Rival temples come together for a spectacular competitive display of music and elephant parades, making it a unique visual and auditory experience.

Theyyam – Ritual Dance of the Divine
Theyyam is a ritual performance art indigenous to northern Kerala, especially in Kannur and Kasaragod districts. It combines dance, mime, and music, with performers transforming into deities through elaborate face painting, headgear, and costumes. Performed in village shrines, Theyyam connects the divine to the everyday lives of people and is deeply rooted in Dravidian traditions and tribal rituals.

Christmas and Easter – Festivities Among Kerala Christians
With a large Syrian Christian population, Kerala celebrates Christmas and Easter with grandeur. Churches are beautifully decorated, choirs sing carols, and homes light up with stars and nativity scenes. Midnight masses, especially in Kochi, Kottayam, and Thrissur, are attended by families in traditional attire. Local bakeries brim with plum cakes and festive sweets, highlighting Kerala’s religious diversity and Christian heritage.

Eid and Muharram – Celebrations in Malabar
Kerala’s Muslim communities, especially in Malappuram and Kozhikode, celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, and Muharram with prayer gatherings, charity, and feasting. Mosques are adorned, families come together for biryani and traditional dishes, and children receive gifts. These Islamic festivals reflect Kerala’s communal harmony and multicultural identity.

Popular Dishes of Kerala

Appam with Stew – Kerala’s Breakfast Favorite
Appam is a soft, lacy-edged pancake made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It’s typically served with a lightly spiced vegetable stew or mutton/chicken stew cooked in coconut milk. The mild flavors, delicate texture, and creamy curry make it one of Kerala’s most beloved breakfast combinations, especially in Christian households and during festive occasions.

Puttu and Kadala Curry – Hearty and Wholesome
Puttu is a traditional steamed rice cake shaped like a log, often layered with grated coconut. It pairs best with Kadala Curry, a spicy preparation of black chickpeas cooked with roasted coconut and spices. This high-protein, fiber-rich combination is a staple breakfast in both rural and urban Kerala homes.

Malabar Biryani – A Fragrant Legacy from the North
Hailing from northern Kerala’s Malabar region, this biryani is made with fragrant short-grain rice (usually Jeerakasala), ghee, and a mix of spices, caramelized onions, and marinated meat. Unlike its Hyderabadi counterpart, Malabar Biryani is less spicy, more aromatic, and layered rather than dum-cooked. It’s often served during festivals and Muslim weddings in Kozhikode, Thalassery, and Kannur.

Karimeen Pollichathu – Backwater Culinary Treasure
Karimeen (Pearl Spot fish) is Kerala’s state fish, and Pollichathu refers to the unique method of marination and slow grilling in banana leaves. The fish is coated in a spicy masala, wrapped, and then either grilled or pan-cooked, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Found commonly in Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam, this dish is a favorite among backwater tourists and seafood lovers.

Sadya – A Grand Vegetarian Feast
Served on banana leaves, Sadya is a multi-course vegetarian feast traditionally prepared during Onam and temple festivals. It features 20+ items including sambar, avial, olan, pachadi, rasam, payasam, and pickles. The flavors range from spicy and tangy to sweet, symbolizing the diversity and balance of Kerala’s culinary ethos. It’s not just a meal, but a cultural ritual that embodies hospitality and community dining.

Banana & Jackfruit Chips – Kerala’s Crunchy Snacks
Made fresh in coconut oil, banana chips (upperi) and jackfruit chips are Kerala’s most popular snacks and travel souvenirs. These crunchy delights are often flavored with salt or jaggery and are available year-round in sweet shops, airports, and local markets. They reflect the region’s love for plantain and tropical fruits.

Toddy – A Rustic Coconut Palm Drink
Toddy, locally known as Kallu, is a naturally fermented drink tapped from coconut palms. Served in traditional toddy shops alongside spicy seafood or tapioca dishes, it offers a mildly alcoholic taste and is part of Kerala’s rural culinary identity. While its sale is regulated, many travelers seek out toddy shops for an authentic taste of local life.

Top Places to Visit in Kerala

Alappuzha (Alleppey) – Houseboats and Backwaters
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alappuzha is famous for its vast network of backwaters and scenic houseboat cruises. A journey along the canals of Kuttanad, lined with paddy fields and swaying palms, offers a glimpse into traditional Kerala village life. The annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race held here is a major cultural event.

Munnar – Tea Estates and Misty Hills
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is Kerala’s iconic hill station, renowned for endless stretches of tea plantations, cool weather, and Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Trekking spots like Anamudi Peak and Top Station offer breathtaking mountain views, ideal for nature lovers and honeymooners.

Kochi (Cochin) – Heritage and Art
A vibrant coastal city, Kochi blends colonial architecture, multicultural heritage, and modern art scenes. Visit Fort Kochi for attractions like the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and Jew Town with its ancient Paradesi Synagogue. The Kochi-Muziris Biennale draws art lovers from around the world every two years.

Wayanad – Forests, Wildlife, and Waterfalls
Wayanad offers an offbeat experience in Kerala’s highlands, with dense tropical forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and tribal culture. Highlights include Chembra Peak, Soochipara Falls, and the prehistoric Edakkal Caves. The region is ideal for trekking, camping, and exploring lesser-known ecological trails.

Kumarakom – Backwaters and Bird Sanctuary
Located near Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a peaceful village known for its bird sanctuary, tranquil backwaters, and luxurious resorts. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially during the migratory season, and perfect for romantic houseboat stays and Ayurvedic retreats.

Thekkady – Wildlife and Spice Plantations
Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is a top destination for jungle safaris and bamboo rafting. The Periyar Lake boat ride offers chances to see elephants and other wildlife. Surrounding spice plantations grow cardamom, pepper, and cloves—perfect for tours and spice shopping.

Kovalam and Varkala – Beaches and Coastal Vibes
Kovalam is Kerala’s classic beach town, featuring crescent-shaped shores, the Lighthouse Beach, and a laid-back vibe. Varkala, by contrast, boasts stunning cliffside beaches, vibrant cafes, and an Ayurvedic and yoga scene. The Janardhana Swamy Temple adds a spiritual element to Varkala’s appeal.

Thrissur and Guruvayur – Cultural and Spiritual Hubs
Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, hosts the spectacular Thrissur Pooram, a temple festival with decorated elephants and percussion orchestras. The town is also a hub for classical music and dance. Nearby Guruvayur is a revered pilgrimage site known for the Guruvayur Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Off-Beat Places to Visit in Kerala

Mararikulam – Peaceful Coastal Escape
Mararikulam is a tranquil fishing village located near Alappuzha, best known for its uncrowded beaches fringed with coconut palms. The serene Marari Beach offers a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the Arabian Sea. Unlike commercial beach towns, Mararikulam retains its local charm, making it ideal for travelers seeking peace, local homestays, and wellness retreats.

Ponmudi – Hill Getaway Near Thiruvananthapuram
Nestled in the southern stretch of the Western Ghats, Ponmudi is a scenic hill station just an hour’s drive from Thiruvananthapuram. With its mist-covered peaks, lush green trails, and cool climate, Ponmudi is perfect for nature walks, trekking, and butterfly spotting. The winding roads and viewpoints like Golden Peak offer panoramic views, attracting weekend travelers and adventure seekers.

Nelliyampathy – Hidden Gem of Palakkad
Often referred to as the ‘Poor Man’s Ooty’, Nelliyampathy is an offbeat hill retreat tucked away in Palakkad district. Surrounded by tea gardens, orange plantations, and dense forests, the area is excellent for eco-tourism, plantation stays, and jeep safaris. Key attractions include Pothundi Dam, Seethargundu Viewpoint, and encounters with wild elephants and gaur.

Silent Valley National Park – Pristine Wilderness
Located in the Nilgiri Hills, Silent Valley is one of India’s least disturbed tropical rainforests, known for its biodiversity richness and ecological significance. This UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve is home to the endangered lion-tailed macaque, rare orchids, and over 1,000 species of flowering plants. Entry is strictly regulated, making it a haven for serious wildlife enthusiasts and conservation-focused travelers.

Bekal Fort and Beach – Heritage Meets Seaside Beauty
In the northern district of Kasaragod, Bekal is famous for the 17th-century Bekal Fort, one of Kerala’s best-preserved coastal fortifications. The fort’s vantage point offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, and nearby Bekal Beach is clean, quiet, and ideal for evening strolls. This destination combines historical exploration with coastal relaxation, away from the tourist-heavy southern beaches.

Athirapally Falls – Kerala’s Majestic Waterfall
Often called the ‘Niagara of India’, Athirapally Waterfalls is Kerala’s largest and most spectacular waterfall, located in the Thrissur district. The roaring cascade plunges from 80 feet and is surrounded by thick rainforest, which is part of the Sholayar range. It’s a great location for photography, trekking, and film buffs—many famous Indian movies have been shot here.

Top Things to Do in Kerala

Backwater Cruise – Sail Through Kerala’s Liquid Lanes
One of the most iconic experiences in Kerala is taking a backwater cruise through its extensive network of lagoons and canals. Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom are the most popular gateways where travelers can stay overnight in a traditional kettuvallam houseboat equipped with modern comforts. The slow-paced journey allows you to observe village life, paddy fields, coconut groves, and local fishing culture, offering a glimpse into the soul of rural Kerala.

Ayurvedic Massage & Detox – Wellness in Nature’s Lap
Kerala is considered the birthplace of Ayurveda, making it the perfect destination for a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or detox therapy. Wellness centers and resorts in Kovalam, Wayanad, and Varkala offer holistic healing packages based on ancient practices using medicinal herbs, oils, and diet. Whether it’s a short therapeutic massage or a multi-day Panchakarma detox, Kerala’s Ayurvedic experience blends traditional healing with natural serenity.

Watch Kathakali or Theyyam – Theatrical Traditions in Action
Kerala’s cultural life is brought alive through vibrant performance arts like Kathakali, a classical dance-drama known for its expressive gestures and elaborate costumes, and Theyyam, a ritual dance form practiced in North Kerala. These performances are not only entertaining but steeped in mythological storytelling and spiritual symbolism. Catch them in cultural centers in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, or small village temples during festival seasons.

Spice Plantation Tour – Aroma Trails in Thekkady
Kerala’s spice plantations are a fragrant delight, especially in Thekkady, Munnar, and Wayanad. Guided tours take you through lush gardens where cardamom, pepper, cloves, vanilla, and nutmeg grow in abundance. These tours not only introduce you to organic farming practices, but also offer insights into Kerala’s role in the global spice trade. Most tours include opportunities to taste, shop, and even cook with fresh local spices.

Visit Elephant Camps – Get Close to Kerala’s Gentle Giants
Elephants hold a special place in Kerala’s culture and are often featured in temple festivals and religious ceremonies. At camps like Kodanad Elephant Training Centre or Punnathurkotta near Guruvayur, visitors can observe and interact with these majestic animals. Activities may include feeding, bathing, or simply watching them in their natural routines. These visits offer an ethical way to learn about elephant conservation and temple traditions.

Beach Life & Surfing – Seaside Serenity and Waves
Kerala’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches, each offering a different vibe. Varkala Cliff Beach is popular for its red cliffs and surf-friendly waves, while Kovalam is known for its crescent beaches and Ayurvedic resorts. Marari Beach, near Alappuzha, offers a more laid-back setting with traditional fishing villages nearby. Whether you want to surf, sunbathe, swim, or enjoy seafood by the shore, Kerala’s beaches have it all.

Trekking & Wildlife Safaris – Into the Wild Western Ghats
For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Kerala offers exciting trekking routes and wildlife experiences. Trails through Wayanad, Agasthyarkoodam, and Meesapulimala take you through shola forests, tea estates, and high-altitude grasslands. Wildlife sanctuaries like Periyar, Parambikulam, and Chinnar provide chances to spot elephants, gaur, leopards, and hundreds of bird species. Guided treks, jungle lodges, and boat safaris enrich the outdoor adventure.

Souvenirs to Buy from Kerala

Spices – Kerala’s Aromatic Gold
Kerala is famously known as the Spice Garden of India, and taking home a stash of fresh spices is one of the best ways to remember your journey. Markets in Kochi, Kumily (Thekkady), and Wayanad are full of fragrant cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg—all grown in the misty plantations of the Western Ghats. These make perfect gifts and are essential ingredients in both Indian and international kitchens.

Coir Products – Eco-Friendly Handicrafts
Made from coconut husk fiber, Kerala’s coir products are a testament to the state’s innovation in sustainability and craftsmanship. From intricately woven door mats and rugs to handmade bags, table runners, and baskets, these items are both useful and artistic. You’ll find the best varieties at coir board showrooms and artisan markets in Alleppey, which is the heart of Kerala’s coir industry.

Kasavu Sarees – Elegance in White and Gold
A Kasavu saree is a quintessential Kerala garment, known for its pristine off-white cotton fabric and distinctive golden zari border. Traditionally worn during festivals like Onam and special occasions, this saree represents Kerala’s refined textile heritage. Whether you buy one from Kuthampully village, which specializes in traditional weaving, or at branded stores in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, a Kasavu saree makes for a beautiful and culturally rich souvenir.

Ayurvedic Oils and Skincare – Wellness to Take Home
Kerala’s long tradition of Ayurveda has led to the production of a wide range of natural oils, balms, and skincare products. Brands like Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala, Vaidyaratnam, and Sitaram Ayurveda offer authentic products made with herbs sourced from Kerala’s forests and plantations. Massage oils, hair tonics, face packs, and pain relief balms are particularly popular among travelers seeking holistic wellness back home.

Aranmula Mirrors – A Rare Craft with a Royal Touch
Unlike regular glass mirrors, the Aranmula Kannadi is a unique, handmade metal-alloy mirror with a highly polished reflective surface. It holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and is made only in the village of Aranmula in Pathanamthitta district. These mirrors are deeply symbolic, often used in rituals and gifted during auspicious events. They make for a rare and elegant souvenir that reflects Kerala’s artisanal heritage and spiritual depth.

Kathakali Masks & Artworks – Theatrical Flair for Your Walls
Vibrant Kathakali masks, miniature figurines, and wall hangings based on Kerala’s traditional dance forms are popular keepsakes for art lovers. These souvenirs, often hand-painted and crafted in wood or papier-mâché, capture the expressive essence of Kathakali characters—complete with elaborate headgear and makeup. You’ll find them in cultural shops in Fort Kochi, Thrissur, and local fairs during festivals.

Best Time to Visit Kerala

October to February – Pleasant weather for sightseeing and beach visits

June to September – Monsoon magic, ideal for Ayurvedic treatments and lush scenery

March to May – Hotter months, best for hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad

How to Reach Kerala

✈️ By Air:
Cochin International Airport (COK) – Major international hub

Other airports: Thiruvananthapuram, Calicut (Kozhikode)

🚆 By Train:
Extensive rail network connecting major towns like Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Trivandrum, and Palakkad

Scenic train routes like the Shoranur–Nilambur line

🚌 By Road:
Well-connected by NH66, NH44, and other state highways

Kerala State Road Transport (KSRTC) operates regular bus services