God’s Own Country Kerala
Kerala, also known as God’s Own Country, is a beautiful state located on the southwestern coast of India. With its picturesque backwaters, lush green forests, and pristine beaches, Kerala is a perfect blend of nature and culture. It is a land of spices, coconuts, and rich traditions, which makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.
In this blog, we will explore some of the must-visit locations in Kerala, what to eat, what to wear, where to shop, and where to witness the vibrant culture of this beautiful state.
Locations to Visit
1) Alleppey – Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, famous for its backwaters, houseboats, and beautiful beaches. It is an ideal place to relax and unwind while enjoying the serene beauty of nature. Some of the popular attractions in Alleppey are the backwater cruises, the Alleppey Beach, the Marari Beach, and the Krishnapuram Palace.
2) Munnar – Munnar is a hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, known for its tea plantations, misty hills, and beautiful valleys. It is a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Some of the popular attractions in Munnar are the tea plantations, the Eravikulam National Park, the Mattupetty Dam, and the Echo Point.
3) Kochi – Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a vibrant city located on the southwest coast of India, known for its historical monuments, museums, and vibrant culture. It is also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. Some of the popular attractions in Kochi are the Fort Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets, the Mattancherry Palace, and the St. Francis Church.
4) Wayanad – Wayanad is a district located in the northern part of Kerala, known for its dense forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and beautiful waterfalls. It is a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Some of the popular attractions in Wayanad are the Banasura Sagar Dam, the Edakkal Caves, the Chembra Peak, and the Thirunelli Temple
5) Kovalam – Kovalam is a popular beach destination located near Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. It is famous for its pristine beaches, coconut trees, and beautiful sunsets. Some of the popular attractions in Kovalam are the Kovalam Beach, the Vizhinjam Lighthouse, the Halcyon Castle, and the Karamana River.
What to Eat
Kerala is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of spices, coconut, and seafood. Some of the must-try dishes in Kerala are:
1) Appam with Stew – Appam is a pancake made from fermented rice batter, served with a vegetable or meat stew. It is a popular breakfast dish in Kerala.
2) Fish Curry – Kerala-style fish curry is a spicy and tangy dish made with coconut milk and a blend of spices. It is usually served with steamed rice.
3) Puttu and Kadala Curry – Puttu is a steamed rice cake served with kadala curry, which is made with black chickpeas. It is a popular breakfast dish in Kerala
4) Malabar Parotta and Chicken Curry – Malabar Parotta is a layered flatbread made with flour, served with spicy chicken curry. It is a popular lunch or dinner dish in Kerala.
What to Wear
Kerala has a tropical climate, with warm and humid weather throughout the year. Therefore, it is advisable to wear light and comfortable clothes made from cotton or other breathable fabrics.
For women, traditional Kerala sarees such as Kasavu sarees are a popular choice. These sarees are made from cotton and have a golden border, giving them a distinctive look. Men can wear Mundu, which is a traditional Kerala dhoti made from cotton or silk. It is paired with a shirt or a traditional Kerala-style shirt called a Mundu Shirt.
Where to Shop
Kerala is famous for its handicrafts and souvenirs, which make great gifts and keepsakes. Some of the popular shopping destinations in Kerala are:
1) Lulu Mall, Kochi – Lulu Mall is one of the largest malls in India, located in Kochi. It has over 350 stores, offering a wide range of products from fashion and electronics to home décor and accessories.
2) MG Road, Kochi – MG Road is a popular shopping destination in Kochi, known for its street markets, boutiques, and handicraft stores. It is a great place to shop for traditional Kerala sarees, spices, and souvenirs.
3) Spice Market, Mattancherry – Spice Market in Mattancherry is a popular destination for spice lovers. It offers a wide range of spices, herbs, and condiments, which are a specialty of Kerala.
4) Broadway, Ernakulam – Broadway is a popular shopping destination in Ernakulam, known for its street markets and small shops. It is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles.
Where to Witness the Culture
Kerala is known for its vibrant culture, which is a blend of various traditions and customs. Some of the best ways to experience the culture of Kerala are:
1) Kathakali Performance – Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala, known for its elaborate costumes and makeup. It is a visual treat and a must-see for anyone visiting Kerala.
2) Theyyam Performance – Theyyam is a popular ritual art form of North Kerala, which is performed in the temples. It involves elaborate makeup and costumes, and the performers are believed to embody the deity.
3) Backwater Cruise – Backwater cruises are a popular way to experience the rural life and culture of Kerala. It allows visitors to witness the day-to-day life of the people living along the backwaters.
In conclusion, Kerala is a beautiful state with a rich culture, history, and natural beauty. It offers a wide range of attractions and activities for tourists, making it a must-visit destination in India.