What Kerala Is Famous For: 12 Reasons Travellers Love God’s Own Country
God’s Own Country, Kerala, is one of the most famous destinations in the world. Once you set your foot here, you will understand the hype of it. This coastal paradise is famous for numerous things from stunning landscapes, spice plantations, to misty forest trails and shimmering beaches with dramatic cliffs.
Wedged between the astonishing Western Ghats and the vast Arabian Sea, Kerala is a destination that is timeless as well as alive. Being one of the best tropical states in India, this haven has mesmerizing backwaters, unique art forms, lively culture and traditions, and a peaceful environment for you to unwind from the daily stressors of life.
For travelers and explorers, Kerala is a deep experience of richness and contrasts. Whether you are savouring the seafood cuisine, wandering through the misty forest trails, or cruising through the lagoons, this paradise finds a way to linger in your memories. In this guide, you will get insights about the top 11 reasons why Kerala is a world famous destination.
1. The Breathtaking Backwaters
The one thing people associate the most with Kerala is its backwaters. Imagine a big network of peaceful canals, rivers, and lagoons covered with the coconut palms which feels like a protective layer over water. The reflection of golden light of dawn on the water surface which only gets interrupted when a canoe passes through it. These backwaters are stretched for almost 900 kilometers and form a water highway system that has been a part of Kerala for centuries.
Backwaters of Kerala are not just postcard scenery but are a living ecosystem for the state. The unique brackish environment when the freshwater from rivers meets the saltwater of the Arabian Sea, makes this state extremely special. Apart from the tourists, these backwaters have been a lifeline for the locals for fishing, transportation, farming, and social gatherings as well.the iconic houseboat Kettuvallams are a tourist fascination which were traditionally used to transport spices and rice but now have been transformed into floating cottages with lounges and bedrooms.
Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam are three most popular places where houseboat cruises give once in a lifetime experience to you. Depending on which type of houseboat you hire and for what duration, the cost of it can vary from anywhere between INR 3,500/- to 30,000/- per person.
2. Ayurveda and Wellness
With the beautiful landscapes, Kerala is also known for its healing. Before the wellness industry became a global trend, ayurveda was quietly being practiced in this coastal state. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine which is around 5,000 years old. For explorers, Kerala is one of the most sought-after wellness destinations across the globe.
In today’s time, it is rare to find an authentic system of healing which will benefit your body, mind, and soul. This is the reason why Kerala is becoming an important wellness location to visit. Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda and is being practiced here for over a thousand years. The abundance of fresh herbs and plants grown here makes it the most suitable destination to practice different therapies and herbal treatments of Ayurveda.
Along with this, the local families in Kerala have passed down the generational knowledge about the different traditions as well as refined practices of ayurveda for centuries. Ayurveda is integrated in the day to day lifestyle of every person living here, with the drinks they offer to the meals they cook with the medicinal spices.
3. Hill Stations and Tea Plantations
Hill stations in Kerala surprise the first-time travelers to the state. The mist-covered hills nestled along the Western Ghats are the best high-altitude escape wrapped in clouds. For many years, these hills have been a summer retreat as well as the agricultural powerhouse for the state. Just within a few hours drive, you can shift your surroundings from a tropical beach to the rolling tea gardens and misty peaks. They are also home to some of the rare flora and fauna species which are not found anywhere else.
Let’s talk about Munnar, the crown jewel of Kerala. It is one of the most famous hill stations in the state and is located at about 1600 meters above sea level. The vast tea estates, Eravikulam national park, and Mattupetty Dam makes it a major tourist attraction across the globe. This place used to be a summer resort for the British colonial elites.
Another hill station in Kerala with untamed beauty is Wayanad. The mesmerizing Chembra peak, Edakkal Caves, and wildlife sanctuaries makes this hilly destination worth the visit. Wayanad is less commercialized than Munnar and is a region with dense waterfalls and spice plantations. Vagamon is another hidden gem of Kerala, which is an extremely underrated hill station located in the state. With the beautiful rolling meadows, winding roads, and pine forests through the hills, the surrounding here is ideal for people who seek tranquility as well as being close to nature.
4. Wildlife and Nature
Kerala is a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers. More than a quarter of the state is covered with dense forests and a large part of this is protected by the authorities as wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and biosphere reserves. This unique biodiversity of Kerala makes it one of the best eco friendly destinations in India. From Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to the Silent Valley National Park, this state has everything to offer to a nature enthusiast.
Stretching from the coastal plains to the high points of the Western Ghats, Kerala is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna, which cannot be found anywhere else. With more than 925 square kilometers of wildlife reserves, Periyar is one of the major attractions in the state. You can explore the entire forest by boating in the astonishing Periyar lake. This place is also home to wild boar, sambar deer, and more than 260 bird species.
Silent Valley National Park, also known as the last untouched rainforest in India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is full of dense forests which are dated back millions of years ago. Nilgiri langur, lion tailed macaque, and malabar giant squirrel are few of the rare species found here. The intimacy and unique experiences of the wildlife in Kerala sets it apart from other nature destinations. For visitors from abroad, this will be an experience of a lifetime, which shouldn’t be missed.
5. Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala
Kerala is also emerging as one of the most serene and inspiring destinations in India to pursue yoga teacher training. Surrounded by lush greenery, quiet beaches, and tranquil backwaters, this state offers the perfect backdrop for self-discovery and inner growth.
Among the many programs offered here, the 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala is the most popular choice for beginners. This foundational course provides a comprehensive introduction to yoga philosophy, asanas, pranayama, meditation, and teaching methodology. It’s designed to help you build a strong personal practice while gaining the skills and confidence to guide others.
Many yoga schools in Kerala are nestled amidst nature, where students can immerse themselves fully into yogic practices away from the noise of cities. These teacher training programs often integrate ancient yogic wisdom with the state’s traditional Ayurvedic healing, making the experience deeply holistic.
Whether you are looking to build a career as a yoga teacher or simply deepen your personal practice, Kerala’s calm surroundings, traditional ashrams, and experienced teachers create an environment that nurtures the body, mind, and soul. Completing your yoga teacher training here allows you to experience Kerala not just as a traveler, but as part of its soulful rhythm and mindful way of life.
6. Spices and Cuisine
Kerala is also famously known as the Spice Garden of India because of its history with spice plantations of over two thousand years. Arab traders came here for black pepper, Romans for cardamom and cinnamon, after which the Portuguese, Dutch, as well as British started fighting over these fragrant treasures. Spices in Kerala are not just commodities but are the soul of their cuisine. You can take guided walks through the plantations in Wayanad and Thekkady to experience the aroma of different spices.
Because of this extraordinary spice plantation, the cuisine of Kerala is also as diverse as its landscapes. Coastal towns in the state savour the seafood while the Cristian household bring their Portuguese inspired flavours in the local dishes. No matter how varied the dishes are, there is always a staple ingredient in every dish, which is coconut. It is grated, grounded, or pressed according to the requirement of the meal. Rice is the foundation of every meal in Kerala, mixed with the local fresh spices. Appam with stew, Karimeen Pollichathu, Sadya, Malabar Parotta with curry, and Banana chips are few famous meals to be savoured while exploring.
Each region here has its own specialities which makes the cuisine of Kerala unique than others. The dishes are so flavourful and aromatic that it becomes extremely enjoyable and comforting. For explorers, food in Kerala can be a big highlight to their trip. You must not limit yourself to only restaurants, no matter how authentic food they serve. Try connecting with local families in the state who welcome their guests in the most traditional ways.
7. Traditions and Festivals
Kerala is a land of festivals. The cultural and traditional calendar here is full with celebrations all year round, tied to the rhythm of different seasons, age-old legends, harvests, and temple traditions. For explorers, stumbling upon a festival in this state is extremely special and a great opportunity to witness how spirituality and joy are woven into the daily lives of the locals.
Onam
Onam is the greatest festival of Kerala which is held in August or September every year, marking the homecoming of the King Mahabali. He was such a loved ruler that God sent him one day every year to visit his people. This festival lasts for ten days and is the best time of the year to visit Kerala. Experience the snake boat rides called Vallam Kali, Onasadya feast, and Pookalam, along with other cultural programs. In one festival you will experience the food, devotion, art, and community altogether in the state.
Thrissur Pooram
Onam is about warmth and abundance whereas Thrissur Pooram is about grandeur and spectacle in Kerala. It is one of the most electrifying festivals in the state and is held between April to May. Vadakkunnathan temple in Thrissur is the heart of this celebration. Here rows of elephants line up, while the massive percussion ensembles thunder in unison. It is one of a kind festival which will bring you an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.
8. Culture, Art, and Dance
Beyond the serene nature and landscapes, Kerala’s culture, art and traditional dance forms also shape the identity of the entire state. These practices and performances are deeply rooted in history and are living traditions which are continuing for years. One of the most famous art forms is Kathakali, which is a classical dance drama combined with specific hand gestures, facial expressions, and costumes. The art form narrates stories from Hindu epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana, so even if you don’t know the language you will be able to understand the story through grand movements and rhythmic expressions.
Mohiniyattam is yet another art form, also known as the Dance of the Enchantress. It is considered to be one of the oldest dance forms in India and is performed only by women. It includes some flowy and graceful movements and sometimes different themes that revolve around love and devotion. For some, it can feel like meditation. Kalaripayattu is also an art form, one of the oldest martial arts in the world. It originated in Kerala and is approximately 3000 years old. This art form consists of the combination of acrobats, combat, and spirituality altogether, where the practitioners use swords and shields. It is also connected to ayurveda for treating injuries and providing massage therapies, which makes it even more special. The different cultural art forms in Kerala are beyond the perspective of entertainment, they are the windows into understanding the heritage and creativity of the state.
9. Unique Handicraft Treasures of Kerala
Not everything in Kerala is associated with its landscape or festival. The unique treasures and different handicrafts also make this state more special than others. For years, skilled craftsmen from different parts of Kerala have turned the natural things like coconut shells, coirs, and woods into interesting objects which are both practical as well as beautiful. These handicraft items reflect the culture and connection of the state with nature. Through the coastal side of Kerala, you can see the coconut palm trees swaying beside the beach. These palm trees are also called trees of life as every part of them is used to make something.
Another art and craft of Kerala is the Aranmula Kannadi, which is the metal mirror. They are not made out of glass but from a secret metal alloy that is polished to perfection. It is an important piece of heritage in Kerala and the technique of making it has been passed down through generations.
Coconut shell craft and Nettur Petti, which is a traditional jewelry box, are also amongst some of the most famous handicrafts found in the bustling markets of Kerala. You can also get the iconic kathakali masks which can be a striking souvenir for you to carry back home. This authenticity of the crafts in Kerala is what makes it stand out the most. They are not some mass-produced stuff but are made with proper traditions and local resources.
10. Eco-tourism of Kerala
The entire state of Kerala believes in sustainability and eco-friendly tourism, which is why it has also emerged as a pioneer of eco-tourism in India. Unlike other places where nature is consumed as a backdrop, this state encourages its visitors to engage with the surrounding respectfully and responsibly. Support the local communities, leave the lightest footprints, and preserve biodiversity while you are exploring Kerala.
The concept about the luxury resorts are far away from eco-friendly ideas. Instead, be a part of the sustainable initiatives which are community-based. Here the villagers serve as local guides or hosts of the homestays as well as the artists, helping the tourists to understand the culture of the state better. When you take the help from locals you realize that your presence is helping them rather than harming their hard work.
11. The People of Kerala and their Hospitality
The real charm of Kerala is how the people welcome the tourists and show their warm hospitality. These people are deeply connected with their culture and land. It is always said that if you visit Kerala as a tourist, you will end up leaving it as a friend. People go out of their way to guide you and explain their customs as well as festivals to you so that you don’t feel excluded. Kerala has one of the highest literacy rates in India and widely speaks the language English. This puts the foreign travelers at ease here in terms of exploring new places and knowing the history.
If you want to dive into the history and traditions of Kerala, then it is highly recommended to stay in a cozy homestay run by the locals. This will give you a chance to savour the traditional meals and be a part of their daily customs. A long lasting sense of community is what stays with you even when you leave this state. These experiences are going to be so authentic to you that you will be eager to visit it again.
12. Kerala’s Monsoon Magic
The monsoons in Kerala are another face of the charm of this state. With the untamed and roaring waterfalls coming alive during rains, these months of monsoons are extremely mesmerizing for every traveler exploring the state. Often called as Niagara of India, the Athirappilly Falls is the most famous waterfall in Kerala, with a height of 80 feet curtain of water. It is also an amazing spot for someone who likes birdwatching and wants to see the different varieties of birds.
In the months when travelers avoid rainy weather, Kerala’s rains are slow and absolutely breathtaking. From June to September, the entire state becomes unbelievably green. The forest drips with life, the river swells, and everything feels like a live performance of nature. The monsoons in Kerala show a different side of India, the side which is raw and refreshing to experience. It is not about sight seeing but about surrendering yourself to the rhythm of nature.