Kerala

Kerala is the southern state of India with places that attract tourists and travelers from all over the world. It was a part of Madras State till 1956. The 560-km long narrow stretch of land with 120 km width is covered with dense tropical forest, fertile plains, beautiful beaches, cliffs, rocky coasts, an intricate maze of backwaters, still bays and 44 glimmering rivers. It has only 1.1 per cent of the country's total area but has 3.4 per cent of the population. It has a high literacy rate and healthcare facilities that are comparable to the United States and the European countries. It is famous for its attractive backwaters and lagoons.

Kerala, famed as God's own country and selected by National Geographic traveler, as one of the ten must see destinations of the world, is an enchantingly beautiful land. The social and cultural life of Kerala has several unique features and typical characteristics. Love for elephants and passion for poetry and the theatrical arts abound here.

Kerala's equable climate, natural abundance of forests (with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants) and the cool monsoon season (June - November) are best suited for Ayurveda's curative and restorative packages. Kerala practices this system of medicine with absolute dedication and this attracts many a tired souls.

Onam is the main festival of Kerala, which is celebrated by Malayalies all over the world. Onam is celebrated in remembrance of Mahabali, a famous King of ancient times. It is during Onam that the famous boat races at Alleppey are held. These snake boat races are a prime attraction of tourism in Kerala. The other important festivals are Christmas and Vishu.