Kerala

With the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 ms in the east and networked by 44 rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate. A long shoreline with serene beaches. Tranquil streches of emerald backwaters. Lush hill stations and exotic wildlife. Waterfalls. Sprawling plantations and paddy fields. Ayurvedic health holidays. Enchanting art forms. Magical festivals. Historic and cultural monuments. An exotic cuisine... All of which offer you a unique experience. And what's more, every one of these charming destinations is only a two hour drive from the other. A singular advantage no other destination offers.

In India, mythical legends associate themselves with the origin of a large number of states and Kerala too holds out the same affiliation. According to legends, Parsurama, the sage warrior, was responsible for the creation of Kerala. The story goes that Parsurama, enraged at the killing of his father at the hands of a Kshatriya king, vowed to eliminate entire Kshatriya clan 21 times. However, after completion of his vow, he was full of remorse and sorts the advice of learned men to rectify his mistakes. These people asked him to distribute all lands he had acquired from the kings between the Brahmins. Parshuram had no objection as he willingly agreed to do the same and also sat in penance at Gokarnam, which at that point of time was considered the end of land. The sea god Varuna, pleased with Parsurama's dedication offered him land equivalent to the distance he could throw his axe. Parsurama threw his axe with full might from Gokarnam and it fell at Kanyakumari. The sea in this area receded and gave way to what is today known as Kerala.

Kerala is one of the smallest states in the Indian union. Its area 38.855 square kilometers is just 1.3 percent of the total area of India. The land of India comprises the narrow coastal strip bounded by the Western Ghats n the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. In the words of Sreedhara Menon “Its unique geographical position and peculiar physical features have invested Kerala with a distinct individuality.” Hence it has played a vital role in the commercial and cultural history of India. Kerala has been describes “as the favorite child of nature.” Like Kashmir in the north, Kerala in the south is famous for its breath-taking natural beauty.

With its evergreen mountains, dense forests stately palms, swift flowing rivers, extensive backwaters and blue lagoons, it looks like a fairyland. This atmosphere of beauty and peace has nurtured religion and art in Kerala and enabled her to become a precious gem in the necklace of Indian culture. Indian poets of eminence have showered their praises for the abundance of its peppers, the fragrance of its sandal and the wealth of its coconuts. No part of India is so widely known or has played so important a part in world history as Kerala.