Famed as God's own country and selected by National Geographic traveler, as one of the ten must see destination of the world, Kerala is an enchantingly beautiful land. Kerala has already solidified its position in the global travel map through its placid climate, captivating beaches, stretches of emerald backwaters, pampering hill stations, exotic wildlife, cosseting waterfalls, sprawling plantations, carpeting paddy fields, ayurvedic health holidays, immaculate art forms and sorcerous festivals. All of which offer you a unique and rejuvenating experience for the rest of your life.

HERITAGE

According to hindu mythology, Kerala was formed when Parasurama, the short-tempered warrior-sage regarded as the incarnation of Vishnu threw his battle-axe northwards across the waters, the waters subsided to form the present Kerala. According to historical documents, Kerala was ruled by the Cheras, the Cholas and the Pandyas. During the reign of these dynasties, Kerala was blessed with several things, which helped the state to gain prominence. The native language Malayalam started developing as a separate language during this period. It was during this period, Ayurveda also took its roots in Kerala. Even today, it is practiced mostly in Kerala with the specialty of ‘Panchakarma’ involving medicated oil massages. The influence of Adi Sankara, the exponent of the Advaita Philosophy, revived the Brahminic Hinduism in the whole of India. Kerala even had foreign trade relations with Rome till the fall of the Roman Empire. Later the Portuguese and thereafter the Dutch and then the British came here to rule the seas. Today, at various places in Kerala one can find the reminiscences of this rich heritage.

WILDLIFE

Well known for its wildlife, Kerala has a long lineup of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. The parks and sanctuaries are not only among the prettiest in the subcontinent, they are also home to large number of animals, birds, butterflies etc. The hilly slops of Western Ghats and lush green forests provide the perfect locale for wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. There are a number of wildlife reserves in Kerala that are home to thousands of species of birds and animals. The national parks in Kerala, India are a major tourist attraction and all the sanctuaries are a must visit if you want to have a glimpse of the wild side of Kerala. Begur, Chinnar, Eravikulam, Idukki, Muthanga, Thekkady, Thattekkad and Silent Valley are some of the world famous wildlife sancturies in the state. Eravikulam national park, is home to one of the biggest moths in the world called the Atlas moth and Nilgiri Tahr. Silent Valley national park is the last known region that is untouched by man. Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary was set up in the year 1983 by the renowned ornithologist of India, Dr. Salim Ali is famous for rare species of birds.

ARTS FORMS

Kerala has a rich and immaculate collection of art forms. Unique and perhaps the most famous among these art forms is Kathakali, the classical dance - drama of Kerala. Vivid and eloquent in its characteristic mudras (hand signs), natural and impressive in gesture, graceful and rhythmic in movement, pleasing in choreography and above all delightful in wealth of imagery, Kathakali ranks high among the world's greatest dance forms. The other famous dance forms of Kerala are Ottamthullal, Mohiniyattam and Chakyarkoothu. Oppana is a Muslim art form of Kerala while Christians practice Margamkali.

HIGHLIGHTS

Kerala has a 600 km long shoreline dotted with some of the finest, most charming beaches of the world. Kovalam, Varkala, Bekal and Cherai are some of the beaches where people want to visit more than once. A houseboat ride in Kerala's inviting backwaters which lets you hear the soothing sound of water rippling alongside your houseboat, as you drift on a Kerala backwater. It lets you explore the green countryside, swaying palm trees, emerald rice fields and children waving from the banks of the backwaters of Kerala. Kerala has a long chain of lush, mid-clad hill stations that are home to exotic wildlife. Munnar is perhaps the best hill station you can find in the entire peninsula.  All the hill resorts in Kerala offer the most enchanting experience of nature in all its virgin beauty. The wild life reserves of Thekkady and Silent valley will surely to inspire those have a love for the wild.

MAJOR FESTIVALS

Kerala, celebrate a host of festivals with its population of Hindus, Muslims and Christians staying and celebrating them in perfect harmony. Onam, which falls in August - September is undoubtedly the most prestigious festival of Kerala. Onam is celebrated in the honour of the King Mahabali who once ruled Kerala. He was allowed to return to his country once a year after his death, on Thiruvonam day. Vishu is the New Year falls every year on 14th of April. The Keralites believe that they should see the best things when they wake up in the morning. Trichur Pooram is celebrated in the sweltering heat of the summer season at the Vadakkunathan Temple in Trichur. During Pooram, the processions of beautifully caparisoned elephants provide a magnificent spectacle. The festival is rounded off at night by dazzling firework displays.

Best Time to Visit
All year except from mid-April to end June (state depending).

Visa Requirements
All non-residents require visas for India, which must be obtained prior to departure. Tourist visas for British passport holders are usually valid for 6 months from the date of issue and currently cost £30.00 per person. Passports must have at least 2 blank pages and be valid for 6 months after your return from India.

Flying Times from the UK
Chennai: 9 hours 40min direct non-stop
Bangalore: 9 hours 35mins direct non-stop
Goa: Approx. 10 hours not direct 
Cochin: Approx. 10 hours not direct

Local Time
India is 5 1/2 hours ahead of GMT