What is Kerala Famous For

Learn about what makes Kerala famous, from its history to its cultural landmarks.
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3 min
12-July-2024

Kerala, often referred to as ‘God's Own Country’, is a picturesque state located in the southwestern region of India. Known for its palm-lined beaches, tranquil backwaters, lush green hill stations, and rich cultural heritage, Kerala is a perfect destination for those seeking a diverse and enriching travel experience. As you plan your vacation to Kerala, it is essential to understand what makes this state so famous and the significance of obtaining domestic travel insurance to ensure a smooth and worry-free trip.

What is Kerala famous for?

Kerala is renowned for its breath-taking natural beauty, rich cultural traditions, and unique experiences. Here are some aspects that make Kerala famous:

  • Backwaters: The serene backwaters of Kerala, especially in Alleppey and Kumarakom, offer a unique and tranquil experience with houseboat cruises and lush landscapes.
  • Ayurveda: Kerala is the hub of Ayurveda, offering rejuvenating treatments and therapies that attract wellness seekers from around the world.
  • Beaches: The state boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in India, including Kovalam and Varkala, known for their pristine sands and clear waters.
  • Hill Stations: Munnar and Wayanad are famous for their tea plantations, cool climate, and breathtaking scenery.
  • Wildlife: Kerala is home to diverse wildlife sanctuaries like Periyar in Thekkady, offering a chance to see elephants, tigers, and exotic birds.

Famous places in Kerala

Here are some of the must-visit places in Kerala:

  • Alleppey: Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is famous for its picturesque backwaters, houseboat cruises, and the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
  • Kochi: Kochi, also known as Cochin, is famous for its rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Don't miss the Chinese fishing nets and the historic Fort Kochi area.
  • Kovalam: Kovalam is renowned for its crescent-shaped beaches, particularly Lighthouse Beach, offering water sports, sunbathing, and Ayurvedic treatments.
  • Kumarakom: Kumarakom is famous for its serene backwaters, bird sanctuary, and luxury houseboats, providing a tranquil escape amidst nature.
  • Munnar: Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and pleasant climate, making it a perfect hill station getaway.
  • Palakkad: Palakkad is famous for its vast paddy fields, picturesque landscapes, and the historic Palakkad Fort.
  • Thekkady: Thekkady is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can enjoy boat rides and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Varkala: Varkala Beach is famous for its stunning cliffs, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. The town is also known for the Janardhana Swamy Temple.
  • Wayanad: Wayanad is famous for its scenic beauty, wildlife sanctuaries, and adventure activities like trekking and camping.

Read more: Places to visit in Kerala

Famous food and cuisine in Kerala

Here are some must-try foods in Kerala:

  • Appam with Stew: A traditional Kerala breakfast dish, appam is a type of pancake made from fermented rice batter, typically served with a coconut-based vegetable or meat stew.
  • Puttu and Kadala Curry: Puttu is a steamed rice cake layered with grated coconut, often served with spicy chickpea curry.
  • Karimeen Pollichathu: A popular dish made with Pearl Spot fish, marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfection.
  • Sadya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, featuring a variety of dishes including rice, sambar, avial, thoran, and payasam.
  • Malabar Parotta: A flaky, layered flatbread served with spicy dish, a favourite in the Malabar region.

Famous markets in Kerala

Here are places in Kerala famous for shopping:

  • Broadway Market, Kochi: A bustling market in the heart of Kochi, known for its spices, textiles, and antiques.
  • Connemara Market, Trivandrum: One of the oldest markets in Kerala, offering a wide range of products including fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
  • Jew Town, Kochi: Famous for its antique shops, offering unique artefacts, jewellery, and traditional Kerala crafts.
  • Spice Market, Kumily: Located near Thekkady, this market is famous for its aromatic spices, including cardamom, black pepper, and cloves.
  • Munnar Tea Market: A must-visit for tea enthusiasts, offering a variety of locally grown and processed teas.

Famous festivals in Kerala

Kerala celebrates numerous festivals with great enthusiasm and fervour:

  • Onam: The most famous festival in Kerala, Onam is a harvest festival celebrated with grand feasts, traditional dances, boat races, and floral decorations.
  • Vishu: Celebrated as the Malayalam New Year, Vishu features the Vishukkani (a ceremonial arrangement of auspicious items), fireworks, and traditional meals.
  • Thrissur Pooram: Known as the mother of all Poorams, this temple festival is famous for its vibrant processions, elephant parades, and spectacular fireworks.
  • Theyam: A traditional ritualistic festival celebrated in the northern part of Kerala, featuring colourful performances by dancers dressed as deities.
  • Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Held annually in Alleppey, this boat race is a major attraction, showcasing the traditional snake boats and rowing skills of local teams.

Explore: What is India famous for

Famous spiritual sites in Kerala

Kerala is home to several revered spiritual sites:

  • Sabarimala Temple: One of the most renowned pilgrimage sites in India, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, attracting millions of devotees annually.
  • Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Located in Trivandrum, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is famous for its intricate Dravidian architecture.
  • Guruvayur Temple: A significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its rich traditions and elephant sanctuary.
  • Vadakkunnathan Temple: Situated in Thrissur, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a prime example of Kerala's architectural heritage.
  • Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple: A unique temple in Kannur, where worship is conducted through a ritualistic dance called Theyyam.

Significance of domestic travel insurance

While planning a trip to Kerala or any other destination, it is crucial to consider the significance of domestic travel insurance. Travel insurance provides a safety net against unforeseen events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.

Benefits of domestic travel insurance

Here are some key benefits of having travel insurance:

  • Medical coverage: Covers expenses related to medical emergencies, including hospitalisation, medication, and emergency evacuations.
  • Trip cancellation: Provides reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled or interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Lost baggage: Offers compensation for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage, ensuring you do not face financial loss.
  • Personal liability: Covers legal expenses if you are held liable for causing injury or damage to a third party.
  • Travel delays: Covers additional expenses incurred due to travel delays, such as accommodation and meals.
  • Assistance services: Offers 24x7 assistance services for emergencies, including medical evacuation and repatriation. If you

Read more: International travel insurance

If you are looking for travel plans for road trips, weekend getaways or holiday in and around India, go on to Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall to find a suitable plan. Bajaj Finance along with its trusted partners brings a wide range of affordable travel plans that cater to individual requirements to ensure you are secure on your trip. Getting travel plans online through Bajaj Finance Insurance Mall is also easy with its 100% digital process and requires minimal paperwork.

Conclusion

Kerala, with its enchanting backwaters, lush hill stations, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey to the tea plantations of Munnar, the historic sites of Kochi to the vibrant beaches of Varkala, Kerala has something for every traveller. Do not forget to indulge in the state's delectable cuisine and explore its bustling markets. While planning your trip, ensure you have domestic travel insurance to safeguard against any unexpected events. With comprehensive travel insurance, you can embark on your Kerala adventure with confidence and peace of mind.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Kerala famous for?
Kerala is famous for its enchanting backwaters, lush tea plantations, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Known as ‘God's Own Country’, it offers unique experiences like houseboat cruises in Alleppey, Ayurvedic treatments, and vibrant festivals such as Onam, making it a must-visit destination.
What is the most popular item in Kerala?
The most popular item in Kerala is its spices. Known as the ‘Spice Garden of India’, Kerala's aromatic spices like cardamom, black pepper, and cloves are highly sought after. These spices are a staple in Kerala's cuisine and a favourite among visitors for their exceptional quality.
What is a unique thing about Kerala?
A unique thing about Kerala is its traditional houseboats, known as ‘kettuvallams’. These beautifully crafted boats offer a unique way to explore the state's scenic backwaters. Staying on a houseboat provides a tranquil and immersive experience, showcasing the natural beauty and serene landscapes of Kerala.
What is a popular thing to buy in Kerala?

A popular thing to buy in Kerala is its exquisite handmade jewellery, particularly gold and traditional temple jewellery. Kerala's craftsmanship in jewellery is renowned, with intricate designs reflecting the state's rich cultural heritage. These pieces make for valuable and cherished souvenirs.

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