Kerala: God’s Own Country
Kerala is situated on the southwestern coast of India, a country in South Asia.
Kerala boasts a unique combination of geographical features that have made it a highly sought-after tourist destination in Asia. Its location is flanked by the Arabian Sea in the West, the towering Western Ghats in the East, and it is networked by 44 interconnected rivers. Visitors can enjoy a long shoreline with serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush hill stations, and exotic wildlife. What sets Kerala apart is that each of these destinations is only a two-hour drive away from the other, making it a singular advantage that cannot be found anywhere else on the planet.
Kerala takes pride in being a cultural flag bearer that not only respects its past but also moves forward with growth and progress. The state has achieved several milestones, including a 100% literacy rate, world-class healthcare systems, India’s lowest infant mortality rate, and the highest life expectancy rate. These accomplishments are a source of great pride for the people of Kerala.
Kerala takes pride in being a cultural flag bearer that not only respects its past but also moves forward with growth and progress. The state has achieved several milestones, including a 100% literacy rate, world-class healthcare systems, India’s lowest infant mortality rate, and the highest life expectancy rate. These accomplishments are a source of great pride for the people of Kerala.
Geography
The state of Kerala is geographically divided into three regions. The Highlands begin at the Western Ghats and slope down to the Midlands, which are made up of undulating hills and valleys. The Midlands, in turn, lead to an unbroken 580 km long coastline with many picturesque backwaters, which are interconnected with canals and rivers. The wild lands in Kerala are covered with dense forests, while other regions are utilized for tea and coffee plantations or other forms of cultivation. The state is mostly engulfed in rich greenery, providing visitors with a very calming experience at all times.
Seasons
Kerala enjoys a pleasant and consistent tropical climate throughout the year, providing visitors with a relaxing and comfortable experience. The region experiences distinct monsoon seasons between June-September and October-November, as well as summer between February-May. During winter, temperatures drop only slightly from the usual range of 28-32°C. The pleasant climate of Kerala is a major draw for visitors, who often fall in love with it.
People and Life
Kerala has emerged as one of the leading states in India for social welfare and quality of life. It prides itself on having some of the highest literacy rates, life expectancy rates, and lowest child mortality rates in the country. The state has one of the highest literacy rates for women in all of Asia. With a unique cosmopolitan outlook, the people of Kerala have access to a wide range of services and opportunities, and are actively involved in the governance of the state.
History
The history of Kerala is intricately intertwined with its commercial activities, which historically revolved around the spice trade. Known as the Spice Coast of India, Kerala was once a hub for travelers and merchants from various parts of the world, including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British. Each of these groups has left a unique imprint on this land, shaping the state’s culture and way of engaging with the world.
Kerala’s major cities include Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kochi, Thrissur, and Kozhikode.