When planning our trip to India, everyone told us, “You must visit Kerala!” Unlike bustling cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, Kerala feels like a world apart. With its warm locals, shiny waterways, and unique blend of nature and culture, Kerala truly impressed us, and it’s a place we can’t wait to return to.
The Kerala tourism board is promoting the “Human by Nature” campaign to highlight the state’s rich diversity and deep connection between its people and the land. This was something we noticed right away during our visit.
Situated on India’s southwestern coast, Kerala has a history as a significant port during the spice trade, attracting Arabs, Israelis, Persians, Portuguese, French, Dutch, and British traders. The British controlled Kerala from the mid-17th century until India gained independence 200 years later. Famous for spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, ginger, and turmeric, Kerala’s flavorful and medicinal heritage still thrives today, influencing its unique cuisine.
Kerala’s rich history and cultural influences make it a welcoming place, home to diverse places of worship and languages. Malayalam and English are commonly spoken. Geographically, Kerala’s 600-kilometer coastline is teeming with life, while its western highlands in the Western Ghats rise dramatically to 1,500 meters, showcasing diverse topography from wetlands to high mountains and fertile valleys. The state’s biodiversity, lush rainforests, waterfalls, wildlife, and tea-covered hills make it aptly named “God’s Own Country,” embracing a relaxed and communal way of life.
Fishing is a vital part of Kerala’s economy and community, with over 200 fishing villages along the coastline. Men wearing traditional lungis go out to fish, bringing together people of different religions to work towards a common goal—food. The sea sustains daily life, offering activities like beach football, swimming, sunset viewing, and serene boat rides through the backwaters. Food and drink also reflect the local flavors with masala chai sourced from local tea leaves and coconut-based curries with fluffy Matta rice—a staple in Kerala.
Kerala offers countless opportunities for tourists. One of our favorite experiences was a houseboat ride through the backwaters, connecting Kumarakom, Cochin, and Quilon. These houseboats, crafted from local materials like jackfruit wood, bamboo, and coconut fibers, showcase Kerala’s unique engineering.
Kochi (Cochin) is another must-visit, with its historical sites, Fort Kochi’s architecture, churches, fishing nets, and delicious eateries. Don’t miss the sunset sights of Chinese fishing nets or a walk through Jew Town with its markets and the 400-year-old Paradesi Synagogue. Experience traditional Kerala culture by watching a Kathakali dance performance and visiting St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European church.
For a change of scenery, head to the highlands to explore the tea plantations. India is the world’s second-largest tea producer, and Kerala is a significant tea-growing region. Munnar, favored by British colonists to escape summer heat, is well-known, but Chinnakanal is another excellent spot for tea lovers. Take a 4×4 jeep tour through tea hills and walk the pathways to see women harvesting tea leaves, an essential part of daily life in Kerala.
Kerala offers an oasis from India’s often chaotic environments. The state’s slow pace and hospitable people make it a popular destination. Engaging with locals, and experiencing their community-focused and tradition-rich lifestyle, alongside the stunning natural beauty, and historical sites, may make you never want to leave.