Kerala

Kerala, a state on India's tropical Malabar Coast, has earned the moniker 'God's Own Country' for its enchanting natural beauty and serene atmosphere. It's a world away from the frantic pace of modern life, a verdant paradise defined by its unique geography. The most iconic experience is a houseboat cruise along the tranquil backwaters, a vast network of lagoons, lakes, canals, and rivers. Drifting past lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages offers an intimate glimpse into the local way of life. The coastline is fringed with palm-lined beaches, from the popular shores of Kovalam and Varkala to the quieter sands of Marari Beach. Inland, the Western Ghats rise to form a landscape of rolling hills blanketed in spice plantations and tea gardens. A visit to Munnar, with its emerald-green tea estates, is a refreshing retreat. Kerala's rich cultural tapestry is woven with traditions like the dramatic Kathakali dance form and the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu. The cuisine is a highlight, characterized by the abundant use of coconut, rice, and a fragrant array of spices, with seafood being a coastal specialty. Cities like Kochi (Cochin) showcase a blend of influences, with its historic Fort Kochi area featuring colonial-era bungalows, cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, and a 16th-century synagogue. With its focus on wellness, offering Ayurvedic treatments and yoga retreats, Kerala is a destination that rejuvenates the body, mind, and spirit.