Kerala – God's Own Country

‘ Gods own country' as Kerala is often referred to, it is the stretch of green paradise found between Lakshadweep and Western Ghats. It is known for its blue beaches, green fields, coconut trees, backwaters and flora and fauna. There is a network of rivers and lagoons that add to its beauty. What more is needed to make it an abode of nature lovers and a great tourist spot?

Kerala is known for many spices, the most popular among them are cardamom, pepper and nutmeg. Besides spices, Kerala is also famous for its rubber estates that are found all throughout the land.

Kerala is also known for Ayurvaidya Sala at Kottackal which is widely recognised for its best treatments. There is a boost in the development of Ayurveda centers which cater mainly to foreign tourists. The main reason for the development of ayurveda in Kerala is its pleasant climate and huge availability of medicinal herbs in the dense forest. Ayurveda treatment does not carry side effects and hence it is gaining popularity world over. There are many types of treatments and the main among them are Sirovasthi, Pizhichil, Vasthi, Njavarakizhi, and Abhyangam. These treatments have gained huge popularity among tourists.

History

Many explorers first came to India and landed in Kerala initially, so the land has strong influence of Chinese, Portuguese, Arab and Dutch. All these influences are visible in the religious architecture of the Hindu temples, mosques of Malabar and the Baroque churches. One would be fascinated by the diverse culture give a unique individuality to this state.

The specialities of Kerala

Wild Life Sanctuaries: Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary

This is a major tourist attraction at Thekkady. Here, wild animals like Wild Elephants, Wild Dogs, Wild Boar, Sambar, Barking Deer, Tiger, Panthers, Spotted Deer are found in their natural habitat and the place is best for photography lovers. This place is accessible by road from Thiruvananthapuram and Cochin by road Periyar.

Excursions

The palm lined backwaters of Kottayam to Allepey can be skimmed through sailboats and tiny skiffs. The rubber and spice plantations of Cochin are excellent places for excursion. Calicut, Varkala, Kannur are also some excellent tourist spots.

Festivals

Onam is the harvest festival of Kerala and Kerala Boat Race is the festivity of the occasion with legendary boats racing through the backwaters providing a feast to the eyes. Christmas is celebrated by all communities with equal enthusiasm.

Beaches

Anything on Kerala would be incomplete without its beaches. The splendid pristine pure beaches of Kerala offer a tranquil environment that no one can miss. Kovalam with its black sands is 16 kilometres from the capital city Thiruvananthapuram. The other beaches include Shanghumukham Beach, Pallikere Beach and Kappad Beach.

How to reach Kerala?

By Air

There are two international airports one at Thiruvananthapuram and the other at Cochin. These two cities are connected to all other important cities of Kerala. The major airlines which fly to these airports are Air-India, Indian Airlines, and Continental Airlines. These domestic airlines fly from all cities of India to Thiruvananthapuram and Cochin.

By Rail

Thiruvananthapuram is connected to all major cities in India through rail

By Road

There are regular bus services to Thiruvananthapuram from all parts of India. The miles to be covered to reach Thiruvananthapuram are 223km from Cochin, 87km from Kanyakumar and 272km from Periyar.

The charm and tranquillity of Kerala will draw any nature lover into its arms. Visit Kerala and enjoy the beaches, ayurveda, the coconut trees and the warmth and hospitality of its people. Visit the splendid land and bask in its charm.