Kerela

With its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Kerala promises an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and exploration. Whether you’re cruising through backwaters, trekking in the hills, or indulging in Ayurvedic treatments, Kerala offers a harmonious blend of nature, tradition, and tranquility, making it a truly enchanting destination to discover.

Exploring the Area:

Kerala, located in the southwestern part of India, is blessed with diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Here are some areas you might consider visiting:

1. Backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha): Experience the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey aboard a traditional houseboat (kettuvallam), cruising through serene canals, palm-fringed lakes, and picturesque villages.
2. Munnar: Explore the breathtaking hill station of Munnar, known for its verdant tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and scenic landscapes. Visit tea estates, trek to viewpoints, and enjoy activities like boating and birdwatching.
3. Kochi (Cochin): Discover the historic port city of Kochi, where modernity blends seamlessly with tradition. Explore Fort Kochi’s colonial-era architecture, Chinese fishing nets, Jewish synagogue, and vibrant spice markets.
4. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Embark on a wildlife safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, deer, and rare bird species. Enjoy activities like jungle treks, bamboo rafting, and boat cruises on Periyar Lake.
5. Kerala Backwater Villages: Immerse yourself in the rural charm of Kerala’s backwater villages like Kumarakom and Kuttanad, where you can interact with locals, explore paddy fields, and experience traditional Kerala lifestyle.

Eating and Drinking:

Kerala offers a delectable array of cuisine, known for its use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and coconut-based dishes. Here are some must-try food and drink options:

1. Appam with Stew: Indulge in soft and fluffy appams, a type of rice pancake, served with creamy vegetable stew or chicken/mutton stew, a classic Kerala breakfast delicacy.
2. Karimeen Pollichathu: Savor the flavors of Karimeen Pollichathu, a traditional Kerala fish delicacy marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfection.
3. Sadya: Experience the grand feast of Sadya, a traditional Kerala meal served on a banana leaf, featuring an array of vegetarian dishes like sambar, avial, thoran, and payasam.
4. Toddy: Cool off with a refreshing glass of toddy, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented coconut sap, popularly served in toddy shops (kallu shaap) across Kerala.
5. Kerala Tea: Enjoy a cup of aromatic Kerala tea, grown in the lush tea estates of Munnar and Nilgiris, renowned for its brisk flavor and distinctive aroma.

What to See and Do:

Kerala offers a range of attractions and activities for travelers. Here’s what you can see and do:

1. Houseboat Cruise: Experience the charm of Kerala’s backwaters with a houseboat cruise, offering scenic views of palm-fringed canals, lush rice paddies, and rural villages.
2. Kathakali Performance: Witness a traditional Kathakali performance, a classical dance-drama of Kerala, featuring elaborate costumes, intricate makeup, and expressive storytelling.
3. Ayurvedic Massage: Rejuvenate your mind and body with an authentic Ayurvedic massage and wellness treatment at Ayurvedic resorts and spas across Kerala.
4. Beach Activities: Relax and unwind on Kerala’s pristine beaches like Kovalam, Varkala, and Marari, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, water sports, and beachside dining.
5. Elephant Safari: Enjoy an elephant safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or Kodanad Elephant Training Centre, where you can interact with elephants, bathe them, and learn about elephant conservation efforts.

Where to Stay:

Kerala offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:

1. Houseboats: Stay in traditional houseboats converted into luxury floating hotels, offering comfortable bedrooms, modern amenities, and personalized service amidst the tranquil backwaters.
2. Ayurvedic Resorts: Experience holistic healing and wellness at Ayurvedic resorts and wellness retreats, offering Ayurvedic treatments, yoga sessions, meditation, and organic cuisine.
3. Beach Resorts: Choose from beachfront resorts and eco-friendly cottages located along Kerala’s pristine coastline, offering panoramic views, beach access, and recreational activities.
4. Heritage Homestays: Immerse yourself in Kerala’s culture and hospitality by staying with local families in heritage homestays and traditional nalukettu houses, offering authentic home-cooked meals and cultural experiences.

How to Get Around:

Getting around Kerala is relatively easy with various transportation options:

1. Backwater Ferries: Travel by public ferries and private boats to explore Kerala’s backwaters, connecting towns and villages along the inland waterways.
2. Local Buses: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates a network of buses connecting major cities, towns, and tourist destinations across the state.
3. Auto Rickshaw: Auto rickshaws are a convenient mode of transport for short distances within cities and towns, offering affordable rates and the option for shared or private rides.
4. Taxi: Prepaid taxis, private cabs, and app-based cab services like Uber and Ola are available for comfortable travel within Kerala, especially for long-distance journeys and sightseeing tours.
5. Rentals: Rent a car, motorcycle, or bicycle from rental agencies to explore Kerala at your own pace, allowing you to visit remote areas, scenic routes, and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

With its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Kerala promises an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and exploration. Whether you’re cruising through backwaters, trekking in the hills, or indulging in Ayurvedic treatments, Kerala offers a harmonious blend of nature, tradition, and tranquility, making it a truly enchanting destination to discover.