God's Own Country: Exploring the Enchanting Land of Kerala
- Jasmine Saini
- Jun 18, 2023
- 7 min read
Kerala- An introduction to God's Own Country
Kerala, popularly called as 'GOD'S OWN COUNTRY', is bestowed with winding waterways, peaceful extend of an emerald backwater, lavish green slopes, equable atmosphere, sprawling ranches and paddy fields, waterfalls, exotic wildlife and colourful natural life which makes it genuinely God's land and a must-visit place on the planet.
Kerala appreciates unique land with the Western Ghats towering 500-2700m high in the east, the Arabian Sea in the west and rich forty-four streams. Adorned by God himself, Kerala is far-famed as a slice of paradise.
Kerala is the best place to kick back and appreciate. The name ‘Kerala’ signifies "Place that is known for coconuts". Palms shade almost the entire state. Many call the tropical shoreline the best scenario in India. Guests can spend a whole day riding little ships through the backwater, tidal ponds and watching elephants romping in natural life havens. Kerala is a place to wind. Spend a day meandering the barriers between the rice paddies and elastic trees, perceiving how a large portion of the world still lives.
Vagamon
"Scotland of Asia"
Vagamon hill station is one of the heavenly spots on the planet. Valleys, tea garden, cascading waterfalls, mesmerizing meadows make this place an ideal gateway for tourists. The grassy hills, mist covered zigzag roads and velvet lawns are truly a bliss. For adventure seekers, there are options of paragliding, trekking and rock climbing. The hill station is comprised of a beautiful series of hills called Murugan hill, Thangal hill and Kurismala.
These spectacular hillocks give an enchanting feel to this beautiful hill station. These hills are important for Hindu, Muslim and Christians, respectively, and are the perfect example of communal harmony in the regions. Vagamon hill station is best to experience eternal bliss and peace of mind. This picturesque town is untouched by modern influence and is kept neat and clean by locals.
Munnar
"Pretty Little hill-station, Tea Gardens and Lakes."
Munnar is a town located in the Southern Western Ghats in Kerala, India. It is pronounced "Mo on-aar" meaning "Three rivers", referring to its location at the confluence of rivers- Nallathanni, Kundala and Mudrapuzha. This place was once a summer resort of the British government in South India. Located at an elevation of 1600m above sea level, Munnar is known for its unparalleled shades of green. Located in the Idukki district, it is also known as the natural spa of Kerala.
Picturesque towns, sprawling tea plantation, winding lanes, lush greenery, and holiday facilities make this place popular among tourists. For photography lovers, this place is perfect for capturing the tea garden hills in their camera rolls. The fresh aromatic tea of here will never want you to leave this place. A blue flower, named Neelakurinji, is one among the exotic flora found in this region. This flower blooms every 12th years, and will now bloom next in 2030.
Idukki
"Spice Garden of Kerala"
Idukki, a landlocked district is one of the striking hill stations of Kerala. Beautiful bungalows, wildlife sanctuaries, rubber plantations and forests, and tea factories make this rugged hill spot a paradise for the nature lovers. Idukki is the home of one of the three highest peaks in South India (2,695 meters).
This peak is also called "Everest of South India" as it is the highest point of south India.Idukki is also the second-largest district in Kerala state. Idukki Arch Dam is the heart of the Idukki and conjointly offers lovely rides in backwaters of the lake. It is Asia's biggest Arch Dam of 555 feet height with pride standing between the two mountains- 'Kurathimala' (925 meters) and 'Kuravanmala' (839 meters).
Kumarakom
"Backwaters bay, small island – Little Venice."
Imagine gliding through the picturesque backwaters in a houseboat as the pitter-patter of rains lends the perfect melody to your monsoon dream. At Kumarakom in Kerala, the most romantic dreams come true against the backdrop of the languid Lake Vembanad. Among the largest lakes in India, Lake Vembanad gently caressed the coastline of Kumarakom, creating a serene landscape featuring virgin backwaters, swaying palm trees, and iconic houseboats. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that Prince Charles chose to celebrate his 65th birthday here with his wife, Camilla.
While a houseboat ride is the most recommended activity for couples, the more outdoorsy guests can explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary either through a walking trail or a boat ride. During monsoon, the place welcomes special species, such as egrets, darters, bulbul, herons, and teals. It is recommended to go on birdwatching tours just after sunrise when the sightings are the best. The best wat to make the most of destination like Kumarakom is to check into a luxury houseboat and spend the night watching the stars.
Varkala Beach
"The hidden treasure of Kerala."
Varkala is known for the unique 'Northern Cliff' towering 15m high, adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Varkala attracts several tourists, mostly water enthusiasts. The white sandy beaches, beautiful shores, tranquil atmosphere and exciting water activities offer a unique experience for the visitors.
It is one of the most visited destinations in the summer season. The beach is famous for an enormous sea on one side and its lush green beauty on the other.
Hills, forts, lakes, the lighthouse, spring and natural fisheries- all of this together make this place a little paradise. This tropical paradise is the dream spot land and a must-visit place in Kerala.
Kovalam Beach
"Beaches, Ayurveda and shopping."
The name 'Kovalam' originally means 'grove of the coconut tree', and as the name suggests, the endless sight of coconut trees can be witnessed here.
The rocky outcropping separates the three beaches -the lighthouse, Samudra and Hawah, which together forms the famous crescent of the Kovalam beach. Undoubtedly, Kovalam's aesthetic beauty relaxes the soul and body as this place is full of ayurvedic massage, meditation and yoga centres.
This place is also famous for its wooden statues, handicrafts and rich spices. Thus, it makes this place a destination of shopping as well.
Onam
There is a mystery to this festival in Kerala. A long time ago, a demon named Mahabali used to rule Kerala. He was a wise, benevolent and judicious ruler and was beloved of his subjects. Everyone was equal and lived-in prosperity and justice. It is said that there was perfect equality, peace and happiness in his kingdom. However, Mahabali had an ego that there is no donor like him. No one goes empty-handed from his doorstep when asked for anything. At that point of time, out of compassion, the lord (Vishnu) reincarnated himself as Vamana (A young boy). Vamana asked for a simple gift; the amount of land, he could measure in three paces. King agreed to it. Bali's Guru (Master) warned him not to get trapped in his words. His guru told him that the kid who is asking for three footsteps of land is none other than Lord Vishnu himself.
Bali ignored the words of his Guru saying that he had never said 'No' to anyone till date, and he could not say 'No' to a kid! Vishnu in the disguise of Vamana increased his size. In first step, he covered the whole earth, and in the next step, he covered the complete sky. Bali then realized that it was his own ego. There is only one giver. He surrendered his Ego at the lotus feet of the Lord, then the lord placed his third step on his head and sent him to another world. However, before banishing him to another world, Vishnu moved by his integrity and humility, and granted him a boon that he was allowed to return once a year to his land to see his people.
Onam means the arrival of Vamana and the departure of Bali. Though Bali's sacrifice, there came enlightenment. Therefore, a whole week long, there are cultural celebrations of this festival in Kerala. During this festival, people pray wholeheartedly for the abundance and happiness that existed during the times of Bali to manifest in the present times too.
Pulikkali Tiger Play
Pulikali (Tiger Dance) is a native folk art of Kerala in which hundreds of men dress as tiger and dance on the traditional drum beats. During Onam, it is common to see tiger play on the streets on Kerala. Sometimes, this play is also performed on a competitive basis by different cultural clubs.
Kathakali
Onam is blessed with one more very striking and elegant feather on its cap. It is Kathakali, a very unique and best dance-drama form of Kerala. Watching artists performing Kathakali in their traditional attire is genuinely magical and admirable. In this dance-drama form, performers do not say any dialogue; rather, they mime. Thus, this form appeals to the universal audience. The make-up code of the Kathakali is bewitching and extraordinary.
It takes around 10 hours to get the make-up done of a performer. These are really painstaking hours. Kathakali costume is embellished with colourful stones, mirrors and shiny metals. The most important part of the Kathakali costume is a massive headgear which is made from lightweight wood and embellished with the shiny metals, colourful stones and mirrors. Bracelet, anklets, huge chin caps and big rings are other accessories worn by a Kathakali dancer.
Vallamkali Boat Race
Vallamkali Boat Race is an attraction during Onam. It is also known as the snake boat race and is most famous among people of Kerala. Fortunately, snake boats get their name from the shape, and there is nothing to do with the lives of snakes! Snake boats are around 110 feet long. Boats are decorated beautifully in various patterns. Several people visit to witness this incredible race.
Chandanakudam Festival
Chandankudam is a festival celebrated at changanacherry which is 18km away from Kottayam district of Kerala. This festival is an intermingling of Hindu rituals and Islamic tradition. Thus, this festival extends the message of communal harmony. The main highlights of this festival are the colourful procession of tuskers that begins from the mosque, and various cultural and musical band performances. This festival is a shining example of secularism and communal harmony where people from different religions come and celebrate together.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Situated in Kottayam district, this place is a paradise for ornithologists. This bird sanctuary is spread across 14 hectares and is a favourite place of migratory birds like egret, Siberian stork, cuckoo, water duck, waterfowl etc. This place is heaven for photographers and bird lovers. Best time to take a trip around the sanctuary is from November to February. It is one of the top bird sanctuaries in Kerala.
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