Embark on a virtual odyssey through Kerala, the radiant gem adorning South India
Welcome to the Multifaceted Realm
Kerala, a multicultural tapestry along India’s southwestern shores, unfolds its allure with sandy coastlines, tranquil backwaters, undulating tea plantations, unspoiled wildlife sanctuaries, and a vibrant calendar of festivals. Join us in delving into the panorama of this South Indian treasure.
Nets of Oriental Mastery
Chinese Fishing Nets of Kochi
The colossal cantilevered fishing nets, gracing the coastal vista near Fort Kochi, trace their origins to the 14th and 15th centuries, potentially introduced by the Chinese explorer Zheng He. Silhouetted against the sunset, these nets have evolved into an iconic emblem of Kochi’s landscape.
Harmony Amidst Diverse Beliefs
A Melange of Religions
Hinduism claims the majority in Kerala, embraced by around 54 percent of the populace. Remarkably, Kerala stands as one of the rare havens where diverse religions peacefully coexist. Temples dedicated to Hindu deities coalesce with churches, mosques, Jain shrines, Buddhist monasteries, and synagogues.
Aanayoottu at Vadakumnathan Temple
Aanayoottu: The Elephant Banquet
In July and August, devotees converge at Vadakkumnathan Temple for the Aanayoottu festival. The belief holds that appeasing Lord Ganesha, the elephant-faced deity renowned for removing obstacles, involves feeding elephants a concoction of Ayurvedic ingredients such as sugarcane, rice, coconut, ghee, jaggery, and medicinal herbs.
Aranmula’s Metallic Splendor
Aranmula: Village of Metal Mirrors
Aranmula, renowned for its exquisite metallurgy, births the Aranmula Kannadi—a handcrafted metal mirror believed to usher prosperity into homes. This mirror constitutes one of eight auspicious items traditionally showcased at significant events, including weddings.
Bekal Fort and Architectural Legacy
Fortresses and Palatial Grandeur
The historical legacy of Kerala, marked by a procession of rulers, has bestowed the region with a plethora of forts and palaces. Bekal Fort, standing tall at 130 feet above sea level, was meticulously constructed between 1645 and 1660 using laterite bricks.
Kerala’s Cashew Commerce
Kerala’s Cashew Legacy
Cashews, a commercial export from Kerala for centuries, find their roots in the tropical climate, potentially introduced by Portuguese traders. The Kollam district hosts the highest concentration of cashew processing facilities, where these nuts undergo roasting, shelling, peeling, and packaging for distribution across India and beyond.
Varkala’s Purifying Waters
Varkala Beach: A Cleansing Oasis
Stretching along the Kerala coast, beaches beckon with Varkala Beach offering not only a refreshing swim but also a belief in the purifying properties of its waters. Notably, this is one of Kerala’s few beaches shadowed by towering cliffs.
Kozhikode’s Vibrant Shore
Kozhikode Beach Extravaganza
A stroll along Kozhikode Beach unveils a tapestry of vendors peddling tea, snacks, ice cream, fresh fruits, and seafood. The beach comes alive in the evening, attracting locals eager to witness the sunset from its sandy expanse.
Chendamangalam Synagogue and Ancient Jewish Roots
Judaic Presence in Kerala
Kerala has harbored a Jewish community for two millennia, with the initial Jewish traders possibly arriving during the era of King Solomon. Chendamangalam Synagogue, crafted by Kerala’s Malabari Jews, boasts tombstones in its cemetery dating back to 1269.
Gavi Waterfall: Nature’s Masterpiece
A Cascade of Water Wonders
Kerala’s undulating terrain, coupled with abundant rainfall, gifts the region with 27 breathtaking waterfalls. Gavi Waterfall stands as an idyllic spot for a leisurely picnic, nestled amidst the verdant beauty of the landscape.
Houseboats of Kottayam: Navigating Backwaters
Immersing in Kerala’s Backwater Serenity
Enthusiasts from across the globe gravitate towards Kerala to immerse themselves in the tranquility of its backwaters. Board a traditional houseboat—a thatch-roofed, wooden-hulled vessel once utilized for transporting rice and spices. Alappuzha alone boasts approximately 500 such houseboats navigating its backwaters.
Lighthouse Beach: Kovalam’s Striped Sentinel
Guiding Light at Lighthouse Beach
Adorning Kovalam’s rocky coastline, a candy-striped lighthouse rises 118 feet above the shore. The Vizhinjam Lighthouse, erected in 1972, stands as a revered attraction. Visitors can ascend the spiral staircase or opt for the elevator, reveling in panoramic coastal vistas.
Kathakali: The Artistry Unveiled
The Enigma of Kathakali
As Kerala garners global acclaim, the age-old performance art of Kathakali emerges as a cultural emblem. This tradition, spanning three centuries, intricately weaves drama, dance, music, and costumes to narrate tales from Indian epics. The significance of makeup rivals that of the costumes in conveying the essence of the performance.