Kerala is a tropical region of South India that has long attracted tourists and adventurers from across the globe due to its spice trade.
It's currently among India's top destinations for travelers on a budget. There are many stunning locations to explore in Kerala, and traveling there provides a far more relaxed experience than backpacking in North India. South India at its most appealing, with gorgeous scenery, canals, beaches, wildlife, and mouthwatering food.
But let's not overlook what is arguably the most enchanted element that visitors experience when they come to Kerala tour: the smiles and the warmth of Indian hospitality that stay with you long after you leave Kerala's sunny coastlines.
How to reach Kerala?
By Air:
Kerala stands as the second state in India with four international airports: Kannur International Airport (not yet operational), Calicut International Airport, Trivandrum International Airport, and Cochin International Airport. The domestic airport in Kerala, Kollam Airport, provides access to the state's main cities. Most people choose to travel by air since it is easy to book an affordable trip to Kerala on any of the main transporters.
By Train:
Kerala boasts over 200 railway stations that link the state's rural areas and large cities. Major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and others offer direct trains to different parts of Kerala. The largest connections are connected by express and superfast trains like the Rajdhani and Duronto, while mail and passenger trains are also readily accessible. Kerala's railway network stretches from Thiruvananthapuram in the southwest to Kasargod in the northwest of the state.
By Road:
Kerala has well-maintained roadways connecting it to most of the neighboring states. All main and smaller regions of the state have easy access to private buses and taxis. It is also an option for visitors from nearby cities to drive their own car to Kerala. Many additional cities in the state may be reached by luxury overnight buses, some of which have built-in restrooms, from places like Alleppey, Kannur, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Palakkad, Wayanad, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Here's why you should not say “no” to backpacking through Kerala
Explore Backwaters on a Houseboat Tour -
Have you ever taken a houseboat cruise through Kerala's backwaters? Make sure to if you haven't already. Without a doubt, this is one of the most amazing and distinctive experiences our state has to offer. Modern houseboats are gigantic, leisurely-moving, exotic boats that are actually a modified form of the ancient Kettuvallams. Tons of grains and spices were transported by the first Kettuvallams. Up to 30 tons of goods are capable of being transported from Kuttanad to the Kochi port on a typical Kettuvallam. At present, houseboats feature every comfort of a nice hotel, including kitchens, comfortable living areas, contemporary bathrooms, bedrooms that are equipped, and balconies where guests may enjoy a refreshing drink. A portion of the curving wood or palm leaf roof opens to let in shade and panoramic views. A 40 HP motor operates some boats, although most are rowed by local oarsmen. Big crowds of tourists also employ boat-trains, which are created by connecting two or more houseboats together.
Discover Fort Cochin's colorful past while relaxing on its tropical beaches -
The Arabian Sea's Queen, Kochi, invites you to join her! With 600 years of trade history, Kochi is a picturesque harbor city. Known globally as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," the city serves as Kerala's financial, economic, and industrial hub. Kochi's past is rich and vibrant! Due to its natural port, the city has drawn a large number of traders, including Chinese, Arabs, Dutch, Portuguese, and British, all of whom have left their marks. Numerous monuments in Fort Kochi, which are today fantastic tourist destinations in Kochi, are evidence of these influences. Kerala's commercial center is Kochi, sometimes referred to as Cochin or Ernakulam, because of its accessibility and reach.
Take in the beauty of nature and the cool breeze at a hill station -
Kerala, which has several picturesque hill stations, is surrounded on its eastern side by the Western Ghat Mountain ranges. The breathtaking natural beauty and tranquility of these hill stations draw travelers. When you visit Kerala's hill stations, you'll be surrounded by foggy roads, waterfalls at every bend in the mountain, grasslands, and mountain slopes decked with tea gardens. Thus, if you'd want to escape into the peacefulness of nature and close your eyes to its beauty, visit one of Kerala's stunning hill stations. Kerala's hill stations are popular tourist destinations all year round because of their very pleasant and balanced climate. In this verdant southern Indian state, you may also take in the amazing wildlife.
Stroll while searching for animals -
An everyday pleasure while floating on picturesque lakes such as the Periyar and Kundala Lake is catching a glimpse of the fascinating animals. Travelers may enjoy several walking paths and exciting adventure options due to the striking hills of the Western Ghat. Kerala is renowned for its backwaters and Arabian coast, but the green glory of the Western Ghat is what really made Kerala known as "God's own land." Thekkady, Munnar, Idduky, Vagamon, Wayanad, and other well-known hill stations in Kerala are blessed with the unique natural beauty of misty mountains, with charming rivers serving as additional tourist attractions.
Attend a Kathak Show -
One of the primary styles of Indian classical dance-drama is kathakali dance, which originates in Kerala. Kerala's traditional dance, kathakali, translates to "story play" in Malayalam, the state language of Kerala. Kerala's traditional dance, kathakali, is a unique fusion of dance, music, and acting that narrates stories from the Indian epics. A Kathakali dancer, either a man or a woman, uses expressive facial expressions and hand movements along with painted faces to tell stories while dancing to music. The state of Kerala has greatly benefited from the global fame of Kathakali dance. The premier classical dance of India, kathakali, is known for its captivating dance plays that portray the conflicts between gods and demons. These performances are a must-see aspect of Keralan culture. Keralan Kathakali performances blend dance, devotion, drama, music, costumes, and makeup to create a heavenly experience for those who witness it. Karnatic ragas feature in the Kathakali music performed throughout the show, and the orchestra plays ancient Keralan instruments such the Chenda, Idakka and Shankhu, Maddalam, Chengila, and Ilathalam.
Say yes to Ayurveda -
Kerala is an Ayurvedic wonderland. No other nation in the world can match Kerala's Ayurvedic practices. Kerala is the ideal location for an Ayurvedic therapy session because of its favorable temperature and quantity of natural herbs. The monsoon season in Kerala is great for rejuvenation therapy (June to November). In order for herbal oils to swiftly enter the body and have the best effects, the body is forced to open its pores to their fullest extent by the chilly, wet weather. The body is not overly stressed during the monsoon season since the temperature is rather constant throughout the day and night. Rain also removes dust from the air, which is advantageous for the course of therapy.
Taste the Food of Kerala -
Kerala is widely known for its mouthwatering food, breathtaking scenery, and rich culture. Keralan food is a fusion of flavors, scents, and textures that are exclusive to this area. Kerala's traditional cuisine is renowned for its use of coconut, spices, and herbs and is an essential component of the state's cultural identity. Kerala offers a wide variety of meals, including meat and seafood dishes as well as vegetarian options. Kerala's traditional cuisine, which includes some of the state's most well-known dishes, as well as the role that food plays in the state's social and cultural customs.
Take a trip to a Spice Plantation -
One of the greatest blessings from nature is the spice plantation, which has increased India's economy and tourism. If you are truly interested in learning more about Indian spices, take a stroll around Kerala's enormous spice gardens. Kerala is the ideal destination for indulging in the calming aroma of some of India's finest spices. To give your homemade meals a little additional taste, you can grab up a couple packets of your favorite spices to bring home.
Things to keep to in mind while backpacking through Kerala
Train Journey Is Fun:
It is a good idea to explore by trains if you intend to go between two cities or towns. Here, the train trips are amazing, passing through thick forests, tall hills, cascading waterfalls, lengthy caverns, etc.
Never Go Without an Umbrella:
Since Kerala receives rain all year round, you never know when it will stop and your plans will have to be changed. Therefore, to protect yourself from rain, always have an umbrella with you. This is especially important if you're outside during the monsoon season, which runs from June to August and October to November.
English comes into use Frequently:
Despite the fact that Malayalam is the primary language spoken in Kerala, where Malayalis predominate, you can communicate considering you speak English fluently. You can effortlessly communicate in either of the regional varieties of English with bus drivers, taxi drivers, and sellers.
Put on Nice Clothes:
Kerala has long been a popular travel destination for visitors from all over the world, yet the locals remain true to traditional values. Thus, dress appropriately and avoid excessive sunlight. Respecting the way of life and customs of the locals is extremely important.
Kerala Is Affordable to Everyone Budgets:
Indeed! Whether you have a tight budget or are seeking a luxurious vacation, Kerala has something to offer everyone. Kerala has a large selection of hotels, resorts, and homestays, making it suitable for all kinds of travelers. Both transportation and food are quite reasonably priced here.
Keralites Are Generally Kind:
In God's Own Country, you would meet friendly folks. Engage with them and discover their way of life, customs, and historical tales. To easily meet locals and exchange joy, you might choose to go by public transportation.
Conclusion
In brief, Kerala is a fantastic location for holidaymakers seeking to experience a variety of activities. Kerala backpacking has something for everyone, from its gorgeous tea gardens in Munnar to the serene backwaters of Alleppey. It's an enriching and unforgettable experience because of the inhabitants' warm friendliness, delectable cuisine, and lively culture. Kerala's natural beauty never fails to enthrall, whether you're trekking through the Western Ghats or unwinding on the beaches of Kovalam. Prepare for an incredible backpacking trip in "God's Own Country" by packing your luggage, embracing the adventure, and getting ready!
