Travel to Kerala- culture,food,tourism

Kerala, often referred to as "God's own country", is a southern state located on the Malabar Coast of India. Known for its scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and unique traditions, Kerala attracts tourists from all over the world. Let's take a closer look at what makes Kerala so special.

Geography and Climate:

Kerala is a narrow strip of land, wedged between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. It has a diverse landscape with hills, beaches, backwaters, and forests. The state experiences a tropical climate with heavy monsoons from June to September.

Culture and Traditions:

Kerala has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, architecture, and cuisine. The state is known for its classical dance forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. The traditional music of Kerala is called Sopanam, which is a fusion of Indian classical and folk music. The state is also famous for its martial art form called Kalaripayattu.

Kerala is also known for its unique traditions, such as the snake boat race (Vallamkali), the annual festival of Onam, and the Theyyam rituals. The state is also home to numerous temples, churches, and mosques that reflect the diverse religious beliefs of the people.

Food:

Kerala is a food lover's paradise. The state's cuisine is a blend of traditional Kerala recipes and colonial influences. Rice is a staple food in Kerala, and it is usually served with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Some of the must-try dishes in Kerala include Appam with stew, Puttu with kadala curry, Fish curry, and Malabar biryani.

Appam with Stew - Appam is a soft and fluffy pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. It is usually served with a vegetable or meat stew that is made with coconut milk, spices, and vegetables. This dish is a breakfast staple in Kerala and is perfect for those who enjoy a mild and savory flavor.

Puttu with Kadala Curry - Puttu is a cylindrical-shaped steamed rice cake that is made by layering rice flour and grated coconut in a bamboo mold. It is usually served with Kadala Curry, which is a spicy and flavorful black chickpea curry that is cooked with coconut milk and a variety of spices. This dish is a popular breakfast item in Kerala and is also enjoyed as a snack.

Fish Curry - Kerala is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, and fish curry is a must-try dish when visiting the state. The fish is cooked in a spicy and tangy curry made with coconut milk, tamarind, and a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is usually served with rice or appam and is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their food.

Malabar Biryani - Biryani is a popular rice dish in India, and the Malabar Biryani is a specialty of Kerala. It is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that is made with basmati rice, meat or vegetables, and a variety of spices. The biryani is usually cooked in layers with fried onions, raisins, and cashews, and is served with raita and papadum.

Kappa and Meen Curry - Kappa is a staple food in Kerala that is made from boiled and mashed tapioca. It is usually served with Meen Curry, which is a spicy and tangy fish curry made with tamarind, coconut milk, and a blend of aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of tanginess in their food.

Parotta and Chicken Curry - Parotta is a layered flatbread that is made by kneading dough with ghee or oil. It is usually served with Chicken Curry, which is a spicy and flavorful curry made with bone-in chicken and a variety of spices. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their food.

Tourism:

Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The state's natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique traditions attract millions of tourists every year. The backwaters of Kerala are a major tourist attraction, and tourists can enjoy a houseboat ride to explore the backwaters. The beaches of Kerala are also famous, and some of the popular beaches include Kovalam, Varkala, and Marari.

The state is also known for its hill stations, such as Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady, which offer scenic views of the Western Ghats. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Silent Valley National Park to explore the flora and fauna of Kerala.

In conclusion, Kerala is a state that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation, an adventurous trip, or a cultural experience, Kerala has it all. The state's natural beauty, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India.