Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a state located in the southwestern part of India. It is known for its natural beauty, backwaters, palm-fringed beaches, lush green landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and rich cultural heritage.
Geography: Kerala is situated on the Malabar Coast and is bordered by the Arabian Sea on the west. It is flanked by the Western Ghats mountain range on the east, which contributes to its diverse flora and fauna. The state has numerous rivers, lakes, and backwaters, including the famous Kerala backwaters, a network of interconnected canals, lakes, and lagoons.
Capital: Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) is the capital city of Kerala.
Major Cities: Apart from Thiruvananthapuram, other major cities in Kerala include Kochi (Cochin), Kozhikode (Calicut), Thrissur (Trichur), and Kollam (Quilon).
Language: The official language of Kerala is Malayalam. English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.
Climate: Kerala has a tropical climate with high humidity and relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. The state experiences two major monsoon seasons: the Southwest Monsoon (June to September) and the Northeast Monsoon (October to November).
Airport/Railway Station
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When visiting Kerala, here are some things you can expect:
Arrive at Kochi International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Explore the city of Kochi, known for its historic sites and cultural heritage. Visit attractions like Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, and St. Francis Church. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance.
After breakfast, drive to Munnar, a beautiful hill station known for its tea plantations and scenic landscapes. En route, visit the Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls. Arrive in Munnar and check-in at your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the tea gardens and enjoying the pleasant weather. Optional: Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history and processing of tea.
Embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Munnar. Visit popular attractions like Eravikulam National Park (home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr), Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake. Enjoy a boat ride in the serene surroundings of Kundala Lake. Return to your hotel and relax for the evening.
After breakfast, depart for Thekkady, famous for its Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. On arrival, check-in at your hotel and relax for a while. In the afternoon, take a boat safari on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife, including elephants, tigers, deer, and various bird species. Optional: Attend a traditional martial arts performance in the evening.
Drive to Alleppey, the gateway to the famous Kerala backwaters. Board a traditional houseboat (kettuvallam) and enjoy a backwater cruise through the scenic palm-fringed canals. Experience the unique lifestyle of the locals and savor delicious Kerala cuisine prepared on board. Overnight stay on the houseboat, amidst the tranquil backwaters.
Disembark from the houseboat and proceed to Kovalam, a popular beach destination. Check-in at your beachside resort and spend the day relaxing on the sandy shores. Optionally, you can indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments or try some water sports activities. Witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Explore Kovalam further or take a day trip to Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. Visit attractions like the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, and Kuthiramalika Palace. Enjoy shopping for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs in the local markets.
Return to Kovalam for a final evening by the beach.
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for your departure.
