Kerala Inspirations

When in Kerala

7 THING’S YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS WHEN IN KERALA

Find out the 7 things you do not want to miss on your journey to amazing Kerala!

CRUISE THE BACKWATERS

No trip to Kerala is complete without a languid boat ride on its idyllic backwaters. The scenic backwaters of Kerala comprise serene stretches of lakes, canals and lagoons located parallel to the coast of the Arabian Sea. Alappuzha, known as the ‘Venice of the East’, is especially popular for its houseboat cruises where you can soak in nature at its finest form.

CHINESE FISHING NETS IN COCHIN

Chinese fishing nets are a type of stationary lift net in India. They are fishing nets that are fixed land installations for fishing. While commonly known as “Chinese fishing nets” in India, the more formal name for such nets is “shore operated lift nets”. It was introduced by Chinese explorers who landed there in the 14th century. Indeed, one interpretation of the city name Kochi is ‘co-chin’, meaning ‘like China

EMBRACE AYURVEDA

Centuries of traditional Indian therapeutic wisdom and practices, perfected to soothe the human body, mind and soul, can now be accessed at the many ayurvedic spas across Kerala. Kerala can easily be called the only place that has an unbroken tradition of Ayurveda. Here, this 5000 year old system of healing continued to thrive over the centuries – thanks to the land’s geographical isolation.

WATCH A KATHAKALI DANCE SHOW

Kathakali, Kerala’s very own classical dance tradition dating back to the 17th century, is a highly-celebrated performing art known for its colorful make-up, elaborate costumes and graceful movements, not to mention the trance-inducing music that accompanies each spirited performance.

MEET PERIYAR’S TIGERS

India’s fabled Royal Bengal tigers can still be found in the virgin forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady. These tigers aren’t fed, but hunt and live independently in the environment.

TASTE OF MALABR (KERALA CUISINE)

Expect a generous use of coconut, chili and spices, in mouth-tingling local recipes that differ with region and community. Kerala cuisine offers a multitude of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes prepared using fish, poultry and red meat with rice a typical accompaniment.

THE SPICE MARKET OF JEW TOWN

Ambush your olfactory at the spice markets of Mattancherry in Kochi; while Jew Town in fort Kochi is famous for its antiques, it is also a great place to indulge in some spice shopping. The enchanting aroma of the finest ginger, cloves, cardamom, turmeric and pepper draws you towards the spice warehouses lining the street.