By Desi Detours | Kerala Travel Series – Post 1 of 7
Tags: #KeralaTravel #DesiDetours #IncredibleIndia #TravelIndia #BackwatersOfKerala #ExploreSouthIndia #IndianTravelBlogger
Where is Kerala?
Kerala is located in the southwestern tip of India, sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. This unique geography gifts Kerala with diverse terrains — beaches, hills, forests, backwaters, and fertile plains. It’s India’s greenest state and arguably one of its cleanest and most literate too.
With 14 districts and two official languages (Malayalam and English), Kerala is compact yet endlessly varied. From the spice-scented slopes of Wayanad to the beachy bliss of Varkala, this state offers something new at every turn.
The Magic of Kerala’s Backwaters
The image most associated with Kerala is undoubtedly the backwaters — a tranquil network of canals, lagoons, and lakes lined with coconut palms and sleepy villages. Renting a houseboat in Alleppey or Kumarakom and floating through this still-life is a meditative, must-have experience.
You can spot locals ferrying across in wooden canoes, fishermen casting their nets, and birds gliding across the golden-lit waters. It’s not just beautiful — it’s immersive, peaceful, and completely unique to Kerala.
A Hill Station Lover’s Dream
Kerala isn’t all water and palms. Head a few hours inland and the air cools, the land rises, and you find yourself in Munnar — the land of tea gardens, misty mornings, and rolling green hills. Wayanad and Thekkady are similarly stunning, perfect for wildlife safaris, jungle treks, and spice garden walks.
The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, cut across Kerala and are rich in biodiversity. If you’re a fan of clean mountain air, waterfalls, and winding forest trails, this is your zone.
Culture That Breathes, Not Just Exists
Culture in Kerala isn’t tucked away in museums — it’s alive, pulsing through everyday life. You’ll see it in a Kathakali dance performance, where stories are told through expressive gestures and eye movements. You’ll feel it at an Onam festival, where entire communities come together for flower carpets, boat races, and grand vegetarian feasts.
And then there’s Theyyam — a sacred ritual dance from North Kerala that borders on the spiritual and theatrical. Kerala’s culture is not just colorful — it’s transformative.
Food That Tells a Story
Kerala cuisine is fragrant, spicy, and deeply satisfying. Think fluffy appams with coconut stew, tangy fish curries, crisp banana chips, and the unforgettable Sadya — a feast served on a banana leaf with over 20 different items.
The Malabar coast is famous for its biryani, while toddy shops offer rustic meals with local palm wine. The food here isn’t just a side attraction — it’s a reason to visit all by itself.
Beaches, Ayurveda, and That Slower Life
The beaches of Kerala have a laid-back vibe that’s hard to resist. Varkala offers dramatic cliffs and chill cafés. Kovalam is perfect for sunrise swims and Ayurvedic massages. And lesser-known spots like Bekal promise privacy and postcard-perfect views.
Kerala is also the birthplace of Ayurveda, India’s ancient healing system. Many visitors come here specifically for detox and wellness retreats that blend herbal medicine, yoga, and meditation.
Kerala’s Elephants, Tigers & Wild Side
The state is also home to several well-preserved wildlife sanctuaries and national parks like Periyar, Silent Valley, and Chinnar. Here you might spot elephants, bison, langurs, and even the elusive tiger.
Sustainable ecotourism is taken seriously in Kerala, and many forest lodges and jungle treks are managed in harmony with the environment.
Why Kerala Should Be Your Next Trip
Here’s why Kerala should top your India bucket list:
– It offers diverse landscapes within short travel distances
– The weather (especially Oct to Mar) is ideal for travel
– Culture and traditions are accessible, authentic, and welcoming
– You can balance adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion
– Kerala is safe, clean, and tourist-friendly, especially for solo travelers and women
What to Expect in This Blog Series
This is just the beginning! In the coming posts of the Desi Detours Kerala Series, we’ll dive deep into:
1. Sightseeing in Kerala
2. Local Food of Kerala
3. Best Places to Stay
4. Cultural Experiences
5. Must-Visit Destinations
6. Travel Tips
Each blog post will guide you through Kerala like a local.
Final Words: Let Kerala Unfold
Kerala doesn’t ask much of you — just your presence. You don’t need a packed itinerary here. Just show up with a curious heart, and let the land guide you. Whether you find yourself sipping chai by the backwaters or watching fishermen cast their nets against the setting sun, you’ll know you’re in a place that’s both ancient and ageless.
This is just the start — subscribe to Desi Detours and come along as we explore every unforgettable detour in Kerala.
WELCOME TO KERALA
