Kerala an abode to Natural Beauty & Cultural Richness: A Complete Guide to Tourist Places, History, and Travel Tips

Kerala is a state located in the southwestern part of India, known for its scenic beauty, serene backwaters, palm-lined beaches, lush greenery, and diverse culture. Kerala is often referred to as "God's Own Country" and is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in India. In this blog, we will take a detailed look at Kerala's natural beauty, popular tourist places, how to reach them, their historical significance, and expenses.

Natural Beauty of Kerala: Kerala is blessed with abundant natural beauty, thanks to its tropical climate, diverse flora and fauna, and its unique geography. The state is home to numerous rivers, backwaters, and lagoons, which give rise to a vast network of canals and estuaries. The backwaters of Kerala are a unique feature of the state and are famous for their scenic beauty. The beaches of Kerala, with their golden sand and palm trees, are a popular tourist attraction.

Tourist Places in Kerala:

1. Alleppey Backwaters: Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is famous for its backwaters. The backwaters of Alleppey are a network of canals, lagoons, and lakes that are surrounded by coconut palms and paddy fields. One can explore the backwaters through a houseboat ride and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place.
2. Munnar: Munnar is a hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, tea plantations, and wildlife. The Eravikulam National Park, which is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, is located in Munnar.
3. Wayanad: Wayanad is a district in Kerala known for its natural beauty and wildlife. The district is home to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to elephants, tigers, and leopards. Wayanad is also known for its scenic beauty and tea plantations.
4. Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is a historic town located in Kochi. It is known for its European colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and Jewish synagogue. The town has a rich history and was a major trading center in the past.
5. Kovalam Beach: Kovalam is a popular beach destination located near Trivandrum. The beach is known for its pristine waters and sandy beaches. One can also indulge in water sports activities like surfing and parasailing.
6. Thekkady: Thekkady is a popular tourist destination known for its wildlife sanctuary. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Thekkady and is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and many other species of animals. One can also enjoy boat rides on the Periyar Lake and witness the wildlife in their natural habitat.
7. Varkala: Varkala is a beautiful beach town located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and cliffs, which provide stunning views of the Arabian Sea. The town also has a historic Janardana Swami Temple, which attracts many devotees.
8. Athirapally Falls: Athirapally Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Thrissur district. The waterfall is a popular tourist attraction and is known for its beautiful landscape and surroundings. The waterfall is located in the midst of a forest, which adds to its natural beauty.
9. Bekal Fort: Bekal Fort is a historic fort located in Kasaragod district. The fort is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea and provides stunning views of the sea. The fort is a major tourist attraction and is known for its ancient architecture and historic significance.
10. Kozhikode Beach: Kozhikode Beach is a popular beach destination located in Kozhikode district. The beach is known for its pristine waters, sandy beaches, and beautiful sunsets. The beach also has a historic lighthouse, which adds to its charm.

How to reach:

Kerala is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The major airports in Kerala are located in Kochi, Trivandrum, and Calicut. The state has a good network of roads and highways that connect it to major cities in India. The state also has a good railway network with major railway stations located in Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode.

Expense:

The cost of travel in Kerala varies depending on the season and the mode of transportation. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are generally affordable in Kerala. However, the cost may increase during peak tourist season. In terms of cost, Kerala is a relatively affordable destination for tourists. Accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonably priced, making it a popular destination for budget travelers. In terms of accommodation, Kerala has a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay in traditional homestays, which provide a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and way of life.

History:

Kerala has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The state was ruled by several dynasties in the past, including the Cheras, the Cholas, and the Pandyas. The state was also a major center of trade during the medieval period, and the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British had a significant influence on the state's history.

Kerala is also known for its traditional art forms, such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Theyyam. These art forms are a major attraction for tourists and showcase the state's rich cultural heritage.

In terms of food, Kerala is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes like appam, puttu, fish curry, and dosa. The state is also known for its spices, which are widely used in its cuisine.

Kerala is also famous for its Ayurvedic treatments and therapies. Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that has been practiced in India for centuries. Kerala is home to several Ayurvedic treatment centers, where visitors can experience a range of therapies, massages, and treatments.

The state also has several festivals and celebrations that are unique to its culture. Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The festival is a harvest festival and is celebrated with flower decorations, traditional food, and cultural performances.

Kerala is also known for its eco-tourism initiatives. The state has several eco-tourism destinations that promote sustainable tourism practices and the conservation of natural resources. These destinations offer visitors a unique experience of living in harmony with nature.

Kerala has a rich history of art and literature. The state is home to several famous writers, poets, and artists who have contributed significantly to Indian literature and art. Visitors can explore the state's cultural heritage by visiting museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, also Kerala has a rich history of trade and commerce. The state was a major center of the spice trade in ancient times and was visited by traders from around the world. The state also has a long tradition of handicrafts, including wood carving, pottery, and handloom weaving.

Kerala is also known for its backwaters, which are a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. The backwaters are a major tourist attraction and visitors can enjoy houseboat cruises, kayaking, and canoeing in the backwaters.

Kerala is also home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, which are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Some of the popular national parks in Kerala include Silent Valley National Park, Periyar National Park, and Eravikulam National Park.

In terms of climate, Kerala has a tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall in the monsoon season. The best time to visit Kerala is from September to March, when the weather is pleasant and there is less rainfall.

In terms of language, Malayalam is the official language of Kerala. However, English is widely spoken and understood in the state, making it easy for visitors to communicate.