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Kerala

Welcome to 'God's Own Country,' a serene paradise where nature itself slows your pulse. Glide through the tranquil, emerald backwaters on a traditional houseboat, watching a world of lush greenery and gentle village life drift by. Ascend to the misty, rolling hills to breathe in the fragrant air of spice gardens and vast tea plantations. Then, unwind on idyllic, palm-fringed beaches where the Arabian Sea whispers at the shore. Kerala is more than a trip; it's a restorative journey for the soul, a vibrant green sanctuary that rejuvenates your senses and leaves you in a state of blissful calm.

Ways to Reach

  • By Air: The state is uniquely served by four international airports, making it highly accessible: Kochi (COK) in the center, Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) in the south, Kozhikode (CCJ) and Kannur (CNN) in the north.

  • By Train: A robust railway network runs along the length of the state, connecting it to all major Indian cities. Major stations include Ernakulam Junction (in Kochi), Thiruvananthapuram Central, and Kozhikode.

  • By Road: A series of national highways (NH 66, NH 544) connect Kerala with neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, with regular bus services available.

Best Time to Visit & Climate

  • Best Time to Visit: September to March for beaches and backwaters. June to August for Ayurvedic treatments and enjoying the lush monsoon scenery.

  • Climate Conditions:

  • Summer (Mar-May): Hot and very humid, especially on the coast (29°C to 38°C). Hill stations are cooler.

  • Monsoon (Jun-Nov): Heavy rainfall, particularly from June to August. Scenery is exceptionally green and vibrant.

  • Winter (Dec-Feb): The most pleasant season with lower humidity and comfortable temperatures (23°C to 32°C).

  • Precautions:

  • Always carry mosquito repellent, especially in backwater regions.

  • During monsoons, pack waterproof clothing and be cautious of landslides in hilly areas.

  • Stay hydrated year-round.

Brief History & Culture

  • Historical Snapshot: A legendary hub of the global spice trade for millennia, attracting traders from Rome to China. The region was a mosaic of powerful kingdoms before European powers established coastal colonies. The modern state was formed in 1956.

  • Cultural Norms & Etiquette: Life has a relaxed, laid-back rhythm. Respect for elders is paramount. Modest clothing is appreciated, and some temples have strict dress codes (like wearing a mundu). It's customary to remove footwear before entering a home.

 Daily Average Cost & Language

  • Daily Average Cost:

  • Minimum: ₹1,300 - ₹3,000 (Homestays, local meals).

  • Maximum: ₹10,000 - ₹25,000+ (Luxury backwater resorts, premium houseboats, specialty dining).

  • Languages Spoken: Malayalam.

  • English an: Very common. Due to high literacy rates and a robust tourism sector, English is widely spoken and understood across the state.

Exploring the City

Self drive Bikes and cars are recommended.

 Best Places to See

  • Alleppey (Alappuzha) Backwaters: The quintessential Kerala experience of gliding through a network of serene canals on a traditional houseboat.

  • Munnar: A breathtaking hill station famous for its vast, rolling tea plantations and mist-covered hills.

  • Fort Kochi: A charming area with colonial architecture, iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, and a thriving art scene.

  • Varkala Beach: A stunning beach known for its dramatic cliffs that run alongside the Arabian Sea.

  • Periyar National Park (Thekkady): A renowned wildlife sanctuary, home to elephants, tigers, and a rich variety of birds.

 Food & Drink

  • Must-Try Local Cuisines:

  • Seafood: Karimeen Pollichathu (fish steamed in banana leaf), Kerala Prawn Curry.

  • Vegetarian: The Sadya (a grand vegetarian feast on a banana leaf), Appam with Stew.

  • Biryani: The unique Malabar Biryani.

  • Where to Eat:

  • Kochi: Paragon Restaurant (iconic Malabar food); Fort House Restaurant (sea-side dining).

  • Thiruvananthapuram: Villa Maya (heritage dining).

  • Unique Experience: Local Toddy Shops (kallu shaap) for authentic, spicy food.

 Safety & Precautions

  • Safety & Precautions:

  • Always carry and use mosquito repellent, especially in backwater and forested areas, to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.

  • Heed local warnings about strong sea currents when swimming at beaches like Varkala.

  • In hilly regions like Munnar, be cautious of potential landslides during heavy monsoon seasons.

  • Ensure your houseboat operator has valid licenses and safety equipment.

  • Emergency Contacts: Use the universal numbers listed above.

  • All-in-One Emergency: 112

  • Police: 100

  • Ambulance: 108

  • Fire: 101

  • Tourist Helpline: 1363

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