The moniker 'God's Own Country' aptly describes why Kerala is so special.
Teeming with lush inland waterways, forests cascading into waterfalls, and a 600-kilometer-long shoreline bordered by palms, this Indian state serves as a haven for biodiversity.
However, to truly experience Kerala fully, one must venture into the less explored and lesser-known regions.
You'll have chances to engage with locals as they carry out their everyday activities, be it on an extensive coffee farm or within some of the less-explored rural areas.
"Visiting Kerala isn’t just about admiring its natural splendor. Picture a tourist from Europe arriving here, residing in a homestay, immersing themselves within a local family, savoring homemade meals, and witnessing the rich cultural tapestry firsthand. These interactions allow travelers to craft memorable narratives rather than merely sightseeing," explains Sikha Surendran, who leads Kerala Tourism.
If you wish to experience Kerala from a different perspective, you may require more than just the typical two-week vacation in order to explore regions beyond those commonly visited, as Surendran points out. "[Typically], tourists tend to concentrate on the central area before moving toward the southern region." However, she notes, "Kerala’s far north remains untouched and unspoiled."
The allure of South India has consistently stemmed from Kerala's shores and serene waterways.
To enjoy a distinctive encounter amidst the lush wetlands, visit the well-known Vembanad Lake situated in Kottayam. Here, you have the opportunity to reside within a quaint village and embark on a picturesque boat tour through the tranquil, winding waterways, observing fishermen silently going about their work. Alternatively, venture onto the serene waters of Ashtamudi Lake aboard one of those iconic traditional houseboats featuring charmingly thatched rooftops and elegant wooden hulls.
Instead of visiting the well-known spots in Alappuzha, consider discovering the serene Bekal coast, where the lush green Kappil Beach and its nearby waterways are located, situated merely 7 kilometers north of the quaint town of Varkala. Should you be fortunate enough, you might catch sight of fireflies once darkness falls.
According to Surendran, the finest beach is Papanasham Beach located in the southern township of Varkala. Beyond being a radiant stretch of sand kissed by the sun, this locale is believed to possess spiritual properties where plunging into its sea waves can cleanse one’s soul and absolve sins. Following your swim, ascend to the clifftop area to witness the awe-inspiring sunset casting an ethereal orange-red hue across the Arabian Sea.
A another untouched shoreline beckons visitors at Muzhappilangad Beach. As Surendran points out, "This location stands as Asia’s biggest and sole beach where driving is permitted."
Those who love adventure and nature can also explore numerous activities in Kerala's refreshing mountain resorts.
Explore the rolling emerald slopes of Munnar, teeming with lush tea gardens that imbue the atmosphere with a distinctive aroma. This region also encompasses the Eravikulam National Park, offering an abundance of exotic birds and butterflies. For panoramic vistas, head to Top Station—the pinnacle of the locale standing at 1,700 meters above sea level.
Soar through the clouds with paragliding adventures starting from the verdant knolls of Vagamon, or explore the less-frequented northern highlands of tranquil Wayanad, where you'll pass beneath cascading waterfalls and hidden caverns.
Kerala, the birthplace of Ayurveda, is perfect for a rejuvenating well-being retreat.
Although immersing yourself in nature and relaxing at tranquil hillside homestays offer numerous opportunities to de-stress, Kerala has another appealing feature: the state is famous for its wellness retreats due to being the origin place of Ayurveda, an age-old Indian healing system.
Featuring specialized physicians, this premier spot for Ayurvedic therapies transforms wellness and joy into a sophisticated craft.
“ Ayurveda encompasses all aspects of life,” explains Surendran, “from the moment you wake up until the time you go to bed, including the activities you engage in and the food choices you make.”
Kerala provides a travel experience where you can contribute positively.
In Kerala, supporting the local community and traveling sustainably goes without saying.
This principle is ingrained in the region’s operations, exemplified by their use of local resources for raw materials and hiring individuals from nearby communities at numerous lodgings and points of interest.
"We believe that without engaging and strengthening the local community, we won't be able to progress further in the realm of sustainable tourism," says Surendran.
Apart from environmental actions like reducing plastic usage, Surendran emphasizes that one should embrace and appreciate Kerala’s traditional customs and age-old practices.
In the Ethnic Cuisine Project, you have the opportunity to enjoy authentic Kerala meals prepared by local households within their own residences or arrange for a homestay through the Kerala tourism site. These encounters foster cultural interaction and support community incomes, asSurendran points out.
Leading the way in safety measures while encouraging independent travel for women
If you're a woman traveling alone and planning to explore India, Kerala makes for an excellent starting point.
Actually, the region has experienced growth in women tourists and has initiated a partnership with UN Women. This collaboration aims to ensure that the top 25 visited spots are secure and inviting for all guests.
As part of an extensive effort, we aim to develop a secure and inclusive environment suitable for all individuals, such as moms traveling with kids, elderly persons, and those with physical disabilities.
Getting around Kerala is quite simple.
The ideal method for exploring Kerala is to secure a private driver and vehicle via one of the numerous reliable tour agencies available.
If you prefer more localized interactions, consider taking public buses or choosing a train route. For those with limited time, make the most of it by utilizing flights among Kerala’s four airports.
When is the ideal time to explore this stunning area? According to Surendran, all seasons offer their own charm in Kerala, but he points out that visiting during times outside the high season from October to March can be less crowded.
However, you ought to visit during the monsoon season. The rains in Kerala are absolutely stunning.
When brief showers commonly prevail, and tropical flora appears to blossom more vibrantly during the serene lulls, this period becomes an ideal time for exploration.
