By Shouq Al Shirazi
Kuwaiti Travel Blogger & Influencer
Special to The Times Kuwait
In this article, I will be sharing my experience of a wonderful tourist destination, which is Kerala in India. The incredible tourist state, which includes among its many activities and tourist attractions that will make your vacation days unique, while also enjoying every moment of it. Yes, Kerala, as the Indians call it “the Goodness of God,” and it is a very beautiful fact. It is literally a floating green mass of land, famous for its water channels intertwined with rivers, lakes, and water bays flowing over its lush green land, and rich flora and fauna and delicious food with fragrant and wonderful Indian spices.
Kerala is located on the southern most tip of India, where you will see the wonders and stunning views that is mind bloggling. It has tropical forests and water channels, and greenry and picturesque landscape.
Kerala has been famous for its trade in perfumes and spices on a global level since a long time ago, to the extent that it was called the city of “incense and spices”.
In the past, Kerala was a trading center until the end of the 15th century when it caught the attention of Portuguese explorers, then the Dutch in the early 19th century, and finally the British colonialists in the 20th century.
Kerala today is a value for money tourist destination and includes a long series of attractions that caters all the tastes of tourists. The nature-loving tourist will find beauty among the tea and spice fields of Munnar, surrounded by tropical forests, waterfalls, nature reserves and gardens, mountains covered with greenery and even beaches surrounded by greenery.
A tour of Kerala is an enchanting and unique experience that is steeped in history along with the dazzling beauty of nature, historic religious sites, air filled with the aroma of spices, and the unlimited greenery and natural beauty. So let us take a quick tour among the most beautiful tourist areas in wonderful Kerala.
A visit to Kerala, often referred to as„ God‘s Own Country,“ is a truly mesmerizing experience.
Backwater Cruise: Start your journey by exploring the famous backwaters of Kerala, especially in Alleppey and Kumarakom. Take a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters, surrounded by coconut trees, paddy fields, and small villages. It‘s a tranquil and picturesque experience that allows you to witness the unique lifestyle of the locals.
Munnar: Visit the hill station of Munnar, known for its tea plantations and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the tea gardens, enjoy a refreshing cup of tea, and indulge in the cool climate. Don‘t miss the stunning views from the Echo Point and the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Kochi: Explore the historic city of Kochi, a major port and trading center since ancient times. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, stroll through the charming streets of Fort Kochi, and witness the beautiful colonial architecture. Don‘t forget to watch a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional form of classical dance-drama.
Wildlife Sanctuaries: Kerala is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. The Periyar National Park in Thekkady is famous for its tiger and elephant reserves. Take a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Other notable wildlife sanctuaries include Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Silent Valley National Park.
Beaches: Kerala boasts some stunning beaches along its coastline. Kovalam Beach, with its golden sands and lighthouse, is a popular tourist spot. Varkala Beach, known for its cliffs and mineral springs, offers a unique coastal experience. You can also visit Marari Beach, Cherai Beach, and Bekal Beach for a relaxing time by the sea.
Ayurveda and Wellness: Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments and wellness centers. Indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages, therapies, and spa treatments that promote relaxation and overall well-being. Ayurvedic resorts in places like Kovalam, Varkala, and Palakkad offer authentic Ayurvedic experiences.
Visit Hill Stations: Other than Munnar, Kerala has several other enchanting hill stations. Wayanad, Thekkady, and Ponmudi offer stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and trekking opportunities.
Cuisine: Kerala‘s cuisine is a delight for food lovers. Don‘t miss trying the traditional Kerala dishes like Appam, Puttu, Fish Curry, and Payasam. You can also explore the local street food and enjoy the flavors of Kerala‘s unique spices and coconut-infused dishes.
Kerala‘s beauty lies in its diversity, from the tranquil backwaters to the majestic mountains and vibrant culture. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, a visit to Kerala will leave you with lasting memories of its natural wonders and warm hospitality.
Remember to plan your trip according to your interests and the duration of your stay. Kerala‘s natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality are sure to make your visit a memorable one. I will surely be going back to explore more of Kerala and enjoy the warm hospitality and natural beauty that is a feast to the eyes and an experience unlike any other.
Shouq Al Shirazi is a well known Kuwaiti Travel blogger and Content Creator who is widely travelled and has featured hundreds of travel destinations around the world. Her Instagram account @shouggate has more than 100,000 followers.