Flanked by the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats in the east, Kerala is blessed with a unique geographical location
Flanked by the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats in the east, Kerala is blessed with a unique geographical location. This tiny strip of luscious land is bestowed with 44 rivers, a vast expanse of tea estates, voluminous waterfalls, emerald backwaters, lush hill stations, pristine beaches, and exotic wildlife. There is no surprise why this picturesque holiday destination is fondly called ‘God’s own country’. A tourist has a lot to discover – the sprawling vanilla and coffee plantations, the green paddy fields, historic monuments, and intriguing festivals. Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurveda massage, marvel at the awe-inspiring art forms, enjoy the salubrious climate, and feast on a lip-smacking cuisine. This tropical paradise is not just a place to be explored, it is a feeling that has to be experienced.
Discover - festive Kerala
Onam is the harvest festival of Kerala. Colorful flower carpets designed by hand, men and women adorned in the traditional Kerala attire of white and gold, women performing the graceful dance form of Thiruvathira, a large feast fit for Kings followed by the deliciously creamy sweet dish Payasam –Onam is the quintessential Kerala experience.
Vallam Kali or the Snake boat race holds a place of pride in the festival calendar of Kerala. This canoe racing competition using paddled war canoes is usually conducted during the Onam season. Vallam Kali includes races of many kinds of paddled longboats, the traditional boats of Kerala.
It would be preposterous to not mention Thrissur pooram in any discussion involving the festivals of Kerala. This cultural fiesta is a mega spectacle that has to be seen to be believed. Complete with caparisoned elephants and grand ensembles of Chenda melam (band play of a percussion instrument) and Pancha vadyam, this festival captures the true essence of a Malayali.
Feast - a gastronomical journey
Vallam Kali or the Snake boat race holds a place of pride in the festival calendar of Kerala. This canoe racing competition using paddled war canoes is usually conducted during the Onam season. Vallam Kali includes races of many kinds of paddled longboats, the traditional boats of Kerala.
It would be preposterous to not mention Thrissur pooram in any discussion involving the festivals of Kerala. This cultural fiesta is a mega spectacle that has to be seen to be believed. Complete with caparisoned elephants and grand ensembles of Chenda melam (band play of a percussion instrument) and Pancha vadyam, this festival captures the true essence of a Malayali.
Feast - a gastronomical journey
Kerala takes you on a culinary journey, unmatched by a few. Meen pollichathu - fish marinated in freshly-ground spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed – is a signature dish of Kerala. The aroma of this baked fish wafting in is enough to get you drooling. Boiled tapioca with some redfish curry is another delightful treat. A fiery chilly may hit the back of your throat, but you will come back for a second helping. Aval Vilayichithu, which is rice flakes coated with jaggery and coconut, is a heavenly snack that tastes best with a dash of ghee. On a rainy day, some ripe bananas dipped in the batter and deep-fried make for a crunchy bite. But nothing beats the large spread whipped up as a feast to celebrate Onam. On your way back, do not forget to take home some banana chips.
Escapade - tranquil Kerala
The best way to experience tranquil Kerala is to embark on a Kettuvallom or a houseboat cruise on its emerald backwaters. The backwaters have a unique ecosystem, and as the houseboats glide over the Kerala backwaters at a leisurely pace, beautiful sights unfold before your eyes. Originally designed to transport cargo, the traditional Kettuvallam has emerged as the mascot of Kerala Tourism. A houseboat cruise along the palm-fringed canals and the rivulets of this picturesque state is a mesmerizing experience that will leave you asking for more.
Kerala is home to the holistic healing system called Ayurveda. Although a serious medical practice, this healing approach is gaining popularity as a therapeutic activity. A rejuvenating Ayurveda massage can ease the knots in your body and relax your frayed nerves. As the expert masseuse kneads your body with her fingers, you can feel the stress leaving your body. Sigh!