Kerala Tourism

Kerala is a state on the south-western Malabar Coast of India. Spread over 38,863 km2 (15,005 sq. mi), Kerala is the twenty-first largest Indian state by area. It is bordered by Karnataka to the north and northeast, Tamil Nadu to the east and south, and the Lakshadweep Sea to the west.

Flanked by the Arabian Sea in the West, the towering Western Ghats in the East and networked by 44 interconnected rivers, Kerala is blessed with a unique set of geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia.

Why Kerala is called "God’s Own Country" The wealth of natural beauty in the form of placid backwaters, lush greenery, picturesque hill towns, beautiful beaches , lip smacking foods and timeless traditions has resulted in the name 'God's Own Country.

History

According to the 17th century Malayalam work Keralolpathi, the lands of Kerala were recovered from the sea by the ax-wielding warrior sage Parasurama, the sixth avatar of God Vishnu (hence, Kerala is also called Parasurama Kshetram; 'The Land of Parasurama').

Parasurama threw his ax across the sea and the water receded as far as it reached. According to legend, this new area of land extended from Gokarna to Kanyakumari. The land which rose from sea was filled with salt and was unsuitable for habitation; so Parasurama invoked the Snake King Vasuki, who spat the holy poison and converted the soil into fertile lush green land. Out of respect, Vasuki and all snakes were appointed as protectors and guardians of the land.

Kerala is the most literate state in India, and a land of diverse religions, where you can find Hindu temples, mosques, churches, and even synagogues. With world class tourist sporting options, Ayurveda spas and treatments make it a one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.