Known the world over for its overwhelming natural beauty, Kerala is the perfect place to let loose yourself to the blissful environment. Located between the Lakshwadeep Sea and the Western Ghats, Kerala is the most famous tourist destination in India, occupying a significant place on the itineraries of tourists. Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city of the state. Its beaches, backwaters and Ayurveda are its most striking features. Each destination of this state has its own specialty to offer such as Alappuzha is famous for its backwaters, Thiruvanthapuram is known for its Kovalam beach, Kottayam takes pride in its ancient churches and Kozhikode for its age-old heritage. The primary language of the state is Malayalam. English is also spoken here. Kerala received the title of the "World First Baby Friendly State" by UNICEF and WHO.

History

According to the legend Kerala emerged from the sea when Parasurama, an incarnation of Mahavishnu threw his axe in it. Human beings have been living here since the Neolithic times. Over the period of centuries, several rulers established their kingdoms in Kerala such as the Cherans, Pallavas, Chola and Pandya. The British also ruled over this state.

Main Attractions

Beaches
The beaches of Kerala have a unique charm about them. They are the hot spots where tourists come in great numbers. The beaches offer golden sand, lovely palm trees, salubrious climate, roaring sea waves, romantic ambiance and facilities for Ayurvedic massages. Some of the renowned beaches of Kerala are Alappuzha beach, Kovalam beach, Kappad beach, Beypore beach and Fort Kochi beach.

Temples
The temples of Kerala reflects the architectural impressions left behind by the rulers of the bygone era. Built beautiful, the temples are visited by devotees from far and wide. They reflect the rich culture and traditions of the state.

Ayurveda
Kerala and Ayurveda are simply inseparable. In fact, this state is the best place in the world for Ayurvedic massages and treatments.

Wildlife
Kerala is rich in fauna and flora, which attracts many wildlife enthusiast from all over the world. A home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered species, Eravikulam National Park is a world famous national park.

Fairs and Festivals
Onam is the most celebrated festival of Kerala. Marked by the arrival of harvest season, the festival is celebrated for ten days. Full of entertainment and adventure, the snake boat race festival is a big hit in the state.

Shopping

Kerala has a lot to offer in terms of shopping also. A variety of beautiful handicrafts such as idols of metal. Jewelery, lamps, kathakali dolls, sandalwood objects, flower vases and silk saris. Kochi and Trivandrum are the best places to shop at in Kerala.

How To Reach Kerala

By Air: Kerala has both national and international airports, which connect it to various places in India and the world. The airports are at Thruvananthapuram(international), Kochi(domestic) and Kozhikode( domestic).
By Rail: The railway network of Kerala makes it easily accessible from different parts of the country.
By Road: Kerala is well connected to the main cities of South India by road.