Green, verdant, and blessed with waterways and palm-fringed beaches, Kerala in the south west is not quite what you might expect from India. With a rich cultural heritage, plenty of international influence and a slow-paced and relaxed way of life that defies 21st century influence, Kerala is both striking and fascinating.
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The cultural portrait of Kerala is made up of several foreign influences: Arabic, Dutch, European, and Chinese. Known for its delicious aromatic spices, Kerala is a region that uses coconut generously in its cuisine. Health and wellness enthusiasts travel here for the Ayurvedic spas and detox programs based on a holistic system dating back 5,000 years.
To the south, the popular backwaters are best explored by kettuvallam (Keralan houseboat) although, particularly on a 1 night houseboat, it can be crowded and far from idyllic. Talk to us about ways to avoid the crowds. For a pristine beach experience without the throngs of tourists, try Neeleshwar in the north instead. The ancient port and fishing village of Cochin has a charming Jewish, Portuguese, and Hindu flair. In the rolling Cardamom Hills, Munnar features lush tea plantations and thriving national parklands. Marari is a quiet fishing village where you can enjoy the simple pleasure of Keralan hospitality and gorgeous beaches. For an unspoilt northern experience, venture into Wayanad where misty mountains are home to spices and flora in abundance.
The people in Kerala are perhaps the greatest pleasure of all: warm, hospitable and kind to visitors. All these attributes make this Indian state a well-known and loved holiday destination. Whilst Experience Travel Group focus on Kerala, many excellent itineraries in the region would take in the neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka too and we would be thrilled to share our expert knowledge on the entire region with you. Talk to a travel consultant today to plan your trip to Kerala in great and exciting detail and remember that the state has so much more to offer than just Cochin, Munnar, Periyar, the backwaters and beach.
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