Friday 7 March 2014

Exquisite Kerala Beauty

Touted as the place bestowed with natural wealth, beautiful surroundings and lush green landscape, Kerala has great stretches of backwaters which makes it the most peaceful state across India, and just an ideal vacation spot for you!

On your trip to Kerala, you can taste exotic local cuisine, experience wet tropical climate and witness historical monuments and churches. Take a tour in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala backwaters. You’re sure to remember it for your lifetime.

Munnar is a must-visit for tea lovers since the region is sprawled with tea plantations. The famous Periyar National Park, which is one of the most popular national parks in southern India, is also a top-of-the-list destination.

Fort Kochi is another tourist attraction that has ancient architecture and historical sites. Beach lovers will have some quality time at the Kovalam beach, which offers views that extend over the Arabian Sea.

Being in Kerala in itself is relaxing and gives a divine feeling, but if you go for a soothing Ayurvedic massage, your trip will be complete. There are several private centres, hospitals and facilities which use herbs and medicinal oils that relax the nerves and rejuvenate the body. There are places that offer first-class treatment and massages. Search for the Green Leaf government approved ones as it guarantees quality.

The ‘Land of Spices’, as it is popularly known, is famous for its hot and spicy food. One can find the flavour of coconut in almost every dish, which has a tradition of being served on a banana leaf. Among the seafood sardines, mackerel, ‘Karimeen’ or fried fish are the popular dishes and so is the fish curry called ‘Fish Moilee’. ‘Kappa’ and ‘Avial’ are other local delicacies that you must try.

Moving ahead, there are many wildlife sanctuaries, museums and zoological gardens which attract visitors to the state. One should not miss out cruising the famous backwaters of Alappuzha and participate in the elephants’ feeding and bathing sessions, which is a unique experience.

Thiruvananthapuram’s wooden palace, ornate waterfront temple and Cochin’s Jew Town need at least a couple of days, but are totally worth it.Kerala is an ideal place for shopaholics, as the local market caters to the need of every individual and has something for everyone.

You can bring home souvenirs like ivory lookalike carvings, patchwork wall hangings, ceramic products, pottery, coir mats and baskets made of coconut husk. You can also shop for silk, gold and silver brocade fabric and spices.

Why just laze around on the beaches when you can indulge in activities including catamaran rides, sailing, boating, windsurfing, parasailing and deep sea fishing. The state has a variety of emerald lagoons and pristine beaches, which are ideal for snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, scuba diving and wind surfing.

A trip to Kerala means a perfect family time crafted in beautiful serene surroundings, far from the daily hustle and bustle of city life.