The Indian state of Kerala has an exceptionally lush tropical environment. Because of its peaceful atmosphere, another moniker for Kerala is “tranquilly,” which perfectly describes the state. It is the perfect spot to unwind and take in some fresh air since it is covered with verdant vegetation. The state of Kerala, by itself, is a picture of perfect tranquilly and natural harmony. Heaven is perhaps the best single phrase to describe Kerala, which is sometimes referred to as the “Own Country of God.” Kerala is located in southwestern India. It is a very gorgeous world inhabited by gods, and its name comes from a term that literally translates to “Coconut Rich.” The clean and fresh atmosphere of Kerala is enough to win over even the most ardent traveller.
The story goes that Kerala’s history may be traced back to the time of the legendary age, when Parshurama presented Lord Vishnu with this territory as a gift. There is evidence from the past that points to the year 1400 as the time when the state first emerged as an autonomous entity. Inscriptions from the Maurayan Empire, which were written during Ashoka’s tenure, have been discovered to provide the first evidence of Kerala. In 1956, amid the process of linguistic partitioning that occurred among the Indian states, the present state of Kerala was formally constituted. The city of Thiruvanantpuram serves as the state capital of Kerala. Literacy rates in the state are quite high, and the state is known for this statistic.
Main Tourist Attractions of Kerala, India
Fort Area
The Fort Area in Thiruvananthapuram is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city due to the many opulent residences and spectacular palaces that can be seen there. The Padmanabha Swamy Temple, which is devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu and is located in this neighbourhood, stands here in all its majesty. Visitors to this region, which has been designated as a historic site, are greeted by an impressive entrance located on the fort’s eastern flank. The western side gate, also known as the Padinjarekotta, has architectural elements that were influenced by the French. Another point of interest inside the walls of the fort is the Anathavilasam Palace.
Napier Museum
The Indo-Saracen architectural style is used to great effect in the building of the Napier Museum, which was completed in the 19th century. This magnificent collection of treasures may be found in this online treasure house. Bronze idols, plastic castings, and historical decorations may be found in abundant supply here for the avid collector of antiquities. This location showcases an impressive collection of bronze idols numbering 400 in total. In addition, there is a magnificent temple chariot that dates back to the 9th century and has a sculpture of Lord Vishnu.
Sri Chitra Art Gallery
One of the most prominent buildings in all of Thiruvananthapuram is the Sri Chitra Art Gallery. The extensive collection of paintings housed at the art gallery is a treat for anybody who has an appreciation for art. Paintings that have been acquired from many different nations, including China, Japan, and Indonesia, are on display for guests to appreciate. The well-known Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma is honoured with his own specific section in this book. Another portion that draws a lot of people is the one that showcases fascinating artwork from Tanjore. These paintings are absolutely magnificent pieces of art since they are encrusted with valuable stones.
Kovalam Lighthouse Beach
The Kovalam Lighthouse Beach, which is located close to Thiruvanthapuram, is quite well-known throughout the nation. The beach, which is quite popular with visitors, is home to a magnificent lighthouse that is striped in red and white. The whole beachfront is lined with a wide variety of eateries, all of which provide mouthwatering seafood dishes. The beach offers fantastic conditions for soaking up some rays and going for a dip. There are other places nearby where you may rent surfboards and boogie boards. Sunrise and sunset excursions on country rafts are another one of the park’s most popular activities.
Krishnapuram Palace
A breathtaking example of Kerala architecture, the Krishnapuram Palace may be found in the town of Kayamkulam. The attractiveness of the structure is accentuated by the presence of a number of little tunnels and outstanding roofs, each of which is created with a single slope on either side of the ridge. The palace, which was formerly the residence of the kings and queens of the kingdom that was once known as Kayamkulam, is now used as an archaeological museum. The most well-known piece in this collection is a massive mural painting titled “Gajendra Moksham” that is 5274 square feet in size. The Buddha mandapam and the stunning garden that surrounds the palace are two additional points of interest.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
The picturesque Vembanad Lake in Kerala is home to this well-known bird sanctuary that may be found on its shores. The sanctuary is an ornithologist’s paradise because to the large number of migratory species that call it home, including the teal, heron, parrots, larks, wood beetle, and Siberian stork. Other interesting sights are native kingfishers in all of their vivid hues. Another reason why people visit the island of Pathiramanal in the Vembanad Lake is to see the colourful birds that migrate there.
Mahadev Temple
The Mahadev Temple in Ettumanur is a magnificent structure designed in the customary manner used throughout temples in Kerala. The temple is well-known for the paintings that it contains, and they are dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva. On the ‘gopuram,’ or tower, of this temple is a picture of Lord Nataraja, which is considered to be its most spectacular artwork. There are several sculptures of elephants with gold finishes that are thought to be around 500 years old. Each and every year, this location throws a massive party in honour of the Arattu festival.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Visitors to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala are in for a treat in terms of the natural beauty that can be seen there. The area is well-known for its grasslands as well as its high mountain ranges, and it is located in close proximity to Periyar Lake. The wildlife sanctuary is home to a large number of different species of animals, such as lion-tailed macaques, elephants, langurs, gaurs, and a great deal more besides. Tourists may enjoy elephant rides and boating on the lake at this location, which is spread out across 775 square kilometres.
Cardamom Hills
Near Periyar, in the Cardamom Hills, visitors may experience the bounties of nature at their very best. The hills derive their name from the world-famous cardamom spice that is farmed in these region and are located in close proximity to the border with Tamil Nadu. Another kind of spice that may be cultivated is pepper. These hills are also home to a significant number of coffee plantations. The whole mountainous region, including all of the deep valleys and rivers, such as the Periyar, Pamba, and Mullakudy rivers, is a paradise for anybody who enjoys being in nature.
Eravikulam National Park
The Nilgiri Tahr, a species that is in risk of extinction, is the primary focus of efforts to preserve the Eravikulam National Park. This park is home to the greatest concentration of Nilgiri Tahrs found anywhere in the world. Visitors will be able to take in awe-inspiring views of the natural world, which include towering mountain ranges, unique flora, and undulating meadows. This park is home to the Atlas Moth, which holds the record for being the largest of its species anywhere in the world. Just to the south of the park is where you’ll find Anaimudi, the highest point in the surrounding area.
Fort Cochin
Visitors to Cochin often spend the majority of their time at the Fort Cochin region. The whole length of coastline that runs around Fort Cochin is backed by stunning European architecture on both sides. The Chinese fishing nets are a primary draw for visitors to this area. These nets are secured to bamboo poles and wooden poles using knots. St. Francis Church, which can be found within the fort, is one of the oldest churches in all of India. This church is the location of the burial of Vasco da Gama. After some time, his lifeless remains were returned to Portugal, which had been his nation.
Mattancherry Palace
A significant symbol of the city of Kochi is the Mattancherry Palace, often known as the Dutch Palace. It was first constructed by the Portuguese, but it was subsequently refurbished in the 17th century by the Dutch, who presented it to the ruler of the city as a gift when they had completed their work. The palace is home to an incredible collection of wall paintings and murals. These paintings each tell a distinct story from one of the major Hindu epics, such as the Mahabharata or the Ramayana. The paintings extend over a wall for about 300 feet. A gallery displaying artefacts like as palanquins, costumes, and weaponry is another one of the attractions that can be found here.
Hill Palace
The Hill Palace in Thripunitra was first constructed in the 19th century by the Raja of Kochi. It is situated on top of a picturesque hilltop in the area. The palace was converted into a museum many years ago, and it houses an extensive collection of artefacts and archaeological discoveries. The majority of the treasures that can be seen here were donated by the Paliam Devaswom, the Department of Archeology, and the Travancore Royal House. The museum is home to a stunning collection of ancient ceramic vases from from both China and Japan. In addition to it, there is a modern art gallery located inside the museum.
State Art Museum
Rare items may be found inside of the State Art Museum, which is housed in a well-known edifice in Trichur. Here one may discover a lovely assortment of sculptures as well as traditional jewellery from the state of Kerala. In addition, there is a portion that guests may peruse that is focused just on conventional lighting. In addition, the museum has an incredible collection of unique woodcarvings. The Kathakali figures that are now on show here are sure to please even the most discerning art critic.
Guruvayur Temple
The Guryvayur Temple in Kerala is a significant destination for Hindu tourists and pilgrims. The Hindu god Lord Krishna is honoured by having his name engraved on the temple. The imposing gold-plated flag pole is the primary point of interest in this location. In addition, there is something called a “Deepasthambham,” which translates to “a pillar of lights,” and it has beautiful sculptures. Within this temple, which was constructed in the 16th century, there are also some magnificent mural wall paintings that may be found. Non-Hindus are not permitted inside the temple.
Kerala Kalamandalam
The Kerala Kalamandalam is a major institution for the classical arts in India. It is located at Cheruthuruthy, which is close to Trichur in Kerala. In 1930, renowned Malayalam poet Vallathol Narayana Menon established the organisation that bears his name. The centuries-old educational method known as gurukula, in which students live with their teachers, is practised in this region. Kathakali, Kutiyattam, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, and Thullal are just few of the traditional art forms that are covered in the in-depth instruction that is offered. The ‘Koothambalam,’ which is a dance theatre, is the most notable attraction that can be found here.
