Discover the Best of Kerala

We introduce you to the must sees and must dos of Kerala. Read on to find out the very best of Kerala, and why you should consider visiting in the monsoon season…

Cruise the Kerala backwaters

Enjoy a getaway to this otherworldly part of Kerala- board a houseboat and venture into the blissful backwaters of Kerala, navigating down narrow waterways, across lakes and into lagoons. Enjoy the relaxing sound of water lapping at the boat as you navigate winding canals and admire the lush surrounding landscape.

Visit the spice and tea plantations

Wander the rolling green hills of Kerala, home to many tea and spice plantations. Perfect for an afternoon stroll, walk through aromatic fields and taste spices such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and vanilla straight from the plant. For tea lovers, Kerala’s hills are also home to several tea estates. Explore the perfectly manicured fields and discover the ages-old method of crafting tea.

Attend a Kathakali performance

A combination of mime, dance, acting, singing and music, Kathakali dates to the 17^th century. Originally a performance only allowed within temples, this dramatic dance is a form of storytelling. Depicting Hindu epics, men adorned in lavish costume, extravagant makeup and jewellery take the stage. Actors tell a story with exact hand movements and eye motions as the music plays, and the audience is absorbed in this unique form of drama.

Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Periyar National Park

For the nature lovers, Kerala is home to two of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in India. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, don’t miss a trip to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where some of the rarest avian species can be found. Within the sanctuary, find Vembanad Lake, a favourite stopping point of many migratory birds from places such as Siberia and the Himalayas.

Indulge with Ayurvedic treatments

Ayurveda, meaning ‘science of life’, is said to have originated in India over 5000 years ago. Today, it is most practiced in the state of Kerala. A holistic healthcare system that considers the wellbeing of mind, soul and body; ayurveda includes massage, herbal remedies, aromatherapy and diet as integral parts of its practice. Getaway to Kerala and heal, unwind and indulge in ancient restorative practices…

Witness the incredible snake boat races

With the arrival of monsoon season comes the Snake Boat Festival. Mark the dramatic turn in seasons with an equally theatrical event- snake boat racing. Snake boats, or chundanvallams, are traditional canoe-style (or snake shaped) boats between 30 and 35 metres long, and each village in Kerala will enter their own boat into the races. Dating back over 400 years, the races originate with the kings of Alleppey, who used snakeboats to fight against each other in the same canals. If you are eager to witness these remarkable races, visit during the lush monsoon season, from June – September.

Watch a Kalaripayattu display

One of the oldest martial arts in the world, Kalaripayattu is said to have originated in the 3^rd century BC. Introduced by a disciple of Lord Vishnu, Parushurama, this ancient artform is a practice of athleticism. Watch on as combatants take great leaps through the air, somersault across the ground, strike hard and attack with precise kicks. Masters of the practice also use weapons such as daggers, swords, spears and bow and arrows. Practiced in a sacred space called a Kalari, witnessing this ancient art is both an experience and a blessing…

Unwind on Kerala beaches

Lying on the coast, Kerala offers an array of breathtaking beaches. Ranging from world-famous to quaint seaside getaways, Kerala’s beaches are perfect for sunrise strolls, afternoon swims, and sunset dinners. Visit the well-known three-crescent shaped beach in Kovalam and enjoy soaking up the sun, venturing out on a cruise, or a swim in the protected bay. Venture further north to Marari beach, where the water is crystal clear and the sands are white. Indulge in the picturesque water, and for those looking for something a little more relaxing… the ayurvedic treatments here are said to be truly special! For those that love a bit of history, we continue north to the Bekal Fort Beach. Stroll the ramparts of this 17^th century fort overlooking the ocean, and take a step back in time as you explore the observation tower, temple, mosque and sculptures that remain today.