Kerala

Kerala feels like exhaling after the chaos of the north. The air is softer, the food spicier, and life moves to the slow rhythm of the backwaters. You notice the small things here — the flash of a sari on a fishing boat, the hiss of coffee poured high from a pot, the scent of cardamom hanging in the mist. It’s India, but gentler somehow.

Size & Comparison

• Area: Approximately 38,863 km²

• Population (2025 estimate): Around 36.11 million

• Comparable to: Canterbury, New Zealand

  
  

Main Cities

• Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum): The state capital.

• Kochi (Cochin): A major port city and commercial hub.

• Kozhikode (Calicut): A historic spice port.

What Food Is Kerala Famous For?

• Sadya: An elaborate vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, especially during Onam.

• Appam with stew: Soft rice hoppers paired with a fragrant coconut-based stew (vegetable, chicken, or mutton).

• Malabar biryani: Especially loved in Kozhikode and Kannur.

Top 5 Things To Do in Kerala

1. Cruise the backwaters of Alappuzha (Alleppey) on a traditional houseboat.

2. Visit Munnar, a serene hill station of tea plantations and misty hills.

3. Explore Kochi’s historic Fort Kochi area, Chinese fishing nets and colonial charm.

4. Relax on beaches and cliffs such as Varkala or Kovalam.

5. Watch a traditional art performance like Kathakali or Theyyam, especially in North Kerala.

Did You Know?

• Kerala is often called “God’s Own Country.”

• It boasts one of the highest literacy rates in India.

• The famous “Vallam Kali” (snake boat races) are unique to the region.

• Kerala has a strong Ayurvedic tradition and distinct architectural style.

• It’s known for its religious diversity and blend of Arab, European and colonial influences.

Nicola’s Story: Around a Corner in Kerala

After visiting Rajasthan a few times, I felt it was time to explore the South. Kerala is the key state when we talk about “The South.” And while it’s the smallest of the three main southern states — bordered by Tamil Nadu on one side (which has its own story) — the neighbouring state of Karnataka also deserves its moment. Its tale will come later.

Kerala, to me, feels like a different country altogether. Swaying coconut palms. The ocean and its labyrinth of waterways. Spicier food. Coffee that rivals tea in both pride and passion. And a history as layered as its backwaters, shaped by waves of traders from Europe and Asia who sailed in to barter for everything this fertile land had to offer.

I loved drifting on a houseboat through the backwaters, formed naturally by monsoons and silt turning rivers into lakes. Then, you drive into the Western Ghats — it’s so green, so lush, and so profoundly peaceful that time seems to slow down.

The Brunton Boatyard Hotel is an iconic place to stay, perched on the water’s edge. When I was there, the Queen Mary 2 was due to sail into port — a colossal ship, towering 18 decks higher than anything in the old town. I was on high alert, ready for the moment. So, when I heard the ship’s horn, I leapt out of bed to witness the spectacle.

Only to become momentarily airborne — and land in a heap on the beautifully polished wooden floorboards. I’d forgotten that the bed was so big and high you actually needed steps to climb into it — and I’d missed them completely! But I did see the Queen Mary.